Bali has a Hindu tradition with their own slant to it. It’s well worth visiting the extremely friendly Balinese and experience their spiritual way of being. The water temple in the center of the island is stunningly beautiful and the serenity is tangible and permeats the air along with the sweet perfume of the frangipani flowers and the joss sticks…

Enjoy the article on Bali vacation packages below…

Spiritual Tours in Bali – Vacation Package Tips Not to Miss
By Karen A. Newton

Before embarking on a Bali tour it is wise to explore the wide variety of Bali vacation packages available today.

What are you looking for in your spiritual tour to Bali?
Bali has a strong cultural heritage with amazing temples found throughout the island. Temple ceremonies occur every day in Bali. You may have heard it referred to as the “island of 10,000 temples”. This is a reflection of the numerous temples found in Bali – spirituality runs deep and strong in all aspects of life here. If you are looking for a spiritual experience then be sure not to miss visiting these temple ceremonies.

What To Look For
Many Bali vacation packages include accommodation, partial meals and a variety of activities. A spiritual tour should involve some type of spa treatment, meditation and yoga. As far as sight seeing, one shouldn’t miss the most beautiful temple in the world – Tanah Lot Temple. Situated high on a cliff over the ocean, the view is absolutely outstanding. Another temple worth mentioning is the Besakih Temple. It has often been referred to as the “Mother of all Balinese Temples”. It actually consists of five temples (a sacred Mandala). If you are exploring Bali vacation packages be sure to try and experience the Barong Dance. A Balinese dance portrays how chaos and destruction compete with each other. Make sure to check with your hotel as many hold performances weekly.

Eat Pray Love
If you have ever read “Eat, Pray, Love.” by Elizabeth Gilbert then you know how she experienced the spirituality of Bali to the fullest. A spiritual tour in Bali that encapsulates her experiences and focuses on changing your life would be essential when looking at Bali vacation packages. In Elizabeth’s book she walks us through her quest for spiritual healing, allowing us to share her journey along the way.

Where To Stay
As for where you want to visit, popular choices in Bali are Ubud and Nusa Dua. In Ubud you will find many shops and galleries, spiritual dances and the monkey forest (a must see!). Also there are the Botanical Gardens, terraced rice paddies and many crafts and art specialties throughout the Balinese villages.

Nusa Dua Bali is home to several five star resorts and choosing to stay in Nusa Dua is a popular choice among many. If you are budget conscious, then you might prefer to stay in Ubud. Nusa dua hotels and resorts are geared more towards those seeking luxury. Many of the resorts even have their own private beaches. Wherever you end up staying you are sure to experience how beautiful and peaceful Bali truly is.

Remember these tips before embarking on your Bali spiritual tour:

• spa treatment, meditation, yoga
• temples including Tanah Lot and Besakih
• Barong dance
• Botanical Gardens and the monkey forest

Be sure to explore the Bali Vacation Packages put together by Spirit Quest Tours, who bring along more than a decade of personal and sacred travel experiences to share with you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_A._Newton
http://EzineArticles.com/?Spiritual-Tours-in-Bali—Vacation-Package-Tips-Not-to-Miss&id=2760857

Technorati Tags: Bali, Bali temples, Bali vacation packages, bali vacations, spiritual Bali

Saw an article on hermit crabs and it reminded me of the time when we had a glorious Christmas Bali vacation a few years ago. We had a lot of fun, especially when we scoured the beaches in Bali and collected quite a few bags of shells…

But first to the article that brought all these memories back. It says here that…

“Hermit crabs are fun pets to care for in your home. They used to be reserved for souvenirs from seaside vacations, but now they can be bought almost anywhere. They make wonderful starter pets for kids. They make a great alternative to the more traditional gerbils or hamsters, and they have a much longer lifespan than goldfish! Contrary to what you might expect if you are new to hermit crabs, it is possible to play with them, and they do have little personalities of their own. Do you think hermit crabs may make a great pet for you? Here are some helpful hints to get you started…”

Well, I never thought that a hermit crab could be a pet. But hey, you never stop learning. Because the article continues…

“Before you get your crab, you need to get the basic equipment and supplies in place. First, they will need an aquarium for their house. Forget those teeny, tiny cages you see at the shops by the beach; hermit crabs really need a ten-gallon aquarium to be comfortable. If you are getting more than one crab, obviously you will be a bigger aquarium. A pet shop will be able to advise you on the best size for the number of crabs you will be housing. Make sure the aquarium has a snug fitting lid so your little friends do not make a run for it! Place a heating pad under the tank to keep your crabs feeling nice and tropical…”

OK, I think I get the picture. And it’s true. You want them to feel at home in your tropical aquarium. Because, what happened those few years ago was that when we got home from our vacation in Bali, we were quite jet lagged, and fell asleep almost as soon as we got back. Around 1am we woke up, couldn’t sleep anymore and decided to have breakfast and clean all the shells we brought with us.

Michael lovingly scrubbed them and arranged them on a large copper plate that we then placed on the coffee table in our lounge.

You know what it’s like when you come back from a long haul flight, can’t sleep but are still sleep deprived. You sit there, lost in thoughts, memories from your fantastic Bali vacation floating in and out of consciousness, admiring the pyramid of shells from the Bali beaches in the middle of the coffee table…

…and suddenly you notice one shell is moving!!!

Crickey! Are you dreaming? Are you awake? Yes, it was true! One shell slowly made its way down the pyramid of shells. I’m sure you’ve guessed… yes, it was a hermit crab that made this particular shell its own.

Now, I had a dilemma. What was I going to do with this tropical sea creature in the middle of an English winter? To go to Brighton beach and drop it into the freezing water would be cruel. The little hermit crab would die. Probably from home sickness. Brighton beach isn’t quite the beach in Bali, is it?

Well, to cut a long story short, somehow we disposed of the poor little hermit crab. The mountain of shells sat in our living room until a year later we packed everything up and moved to the antipodes…

You can read the rest of the article above at http://www.balivacationtips.com/the-basic-of-hermit-crab.html

Technorati Tags: Bali, Bali vacation packages, beach

If your answer is no, you should see this video.
I took the picture on Tanah Lot Bali.

Tanah Lot is the place where the land meets the ocean
It is the place where we can see the beauty of our earth
and enjoy the beautiful sunset

Plan your Bali Vacations today, youll never regret.
Make sure to read the guide at

www.TheBaliVacations.com

Duration : 0:3:27

Technorati Tags: Bali, Bali Beach, Bali hotel, Bali Hotels, Bali Indonesia vacation, Bali resort, Bali spa, Bali Travel, Bali vacation, Bali vacation packages, bali vacations, Balinese, vacation in Bali

Duration : 0:5:29

Technorati Tags: bali accommodation, Bali Accomodation, Bali Hotels, Bali vacation packages, inna kuta beach hotel, kuta hotels

If your answer is no, you should see this video.
I took the picture on Tanah Lot Bali.

Tanah Lot is the place where the land meets the ocean
It is the place where we can see the beauty of our earth
and enjoy the beautiful sunset

Plan your Bali Vacations today, youll never regret.
Make sure to read the guide at

www.TheBaliVacations.com

Duration : 0:3:27

Technorati Tags: Bali, Bali Beach, Bali hotel, Bali Hotels, Bali Indonesia vacation, Bali resort, Bali spa, Bali Travel, Bali vacation, Bali vacation packages, bali vacations, Balinese, vacation in Bali

Many people book a last minute vacation to escape the winter cold, and Bali is an affordable destination with lots of tropical paradise thrown in.

A few years ago, I spent a glorious Christmas and New Year season in Bali, and was thoroughly spoiled.

Popular vacation locations in Bali are sanur, Nusa Dua, and kuta. Kuta is well known for the surfing, and Sanur is great for a family vacation.

According to the Bali Tourism Office, Bali is a favorite tourist destination for Australian and Japanese tourists. Yet, for many of them, it will be the first visit to Bali.

Malaysia is another very potential market for Bali`s tourism. The neighboring state now ranks fifth as Bali`s source of foreign tourists.

Bali combines the affordability with the tropical paradise settings. I would recommend a Bali vacation to anyone that’s looking for a safe and exotic vacation.

Technorati Tags: Bali, Bali vacation packages, bali vacations, kuta, Nusa Dua, sanur

“Bali is a small, beautiful island famed for its unique arts and cultures, enchanting nature and the friendliness of its people. Most people come to Bali to experience the marvelously rich cultural heritage; some come for the beaches and the waves, others for pure relaxation. Bali is situated in Indonesia, one of the best tourist destinations in Asia.

For those who plan to visit Bali, I herewith write Ten Essential Tips for Bali Vacation for your consideration.

1. To enter Bali, or Indonesia for that matter, make sure your passport is valid for six months upon entry into Indonesia, otherwise you’ll find yourself on the next plane out. You also must have proof of onward passage (i.e. a ticket out of Indonesia). Tourist, social and business visas can be obtained from any Indonesian embassy or consulate abroad. Citizens from Asian countries comprising Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Cambodia, Philippine and Laos do not require a visa, only a valid travel document. Visitors from some thirty countries are also provided with a 60-days tourist visa issued directly upon arrival. Consult your travel agent or airlines, mention your nationality.

2. Money matters: The rupiah is the basic unit of money. Foreign currency, in bank notes and travelers checks is best exchanged at major banks or authorized money changers. Do change money at a reputable looking location, use your own (or the hotel’s calculator before changing), as the ones used by some places can be ‘a little inaccurate’. Most important; always count your money before you leave the place. Travelers checks are accepted at all major hotels and large shops; some smaller shops will also accept them. Passport number is required. Do not forget to take passport (or a photocopy of your ID), with you at all time.

3. When changing large amounts of money please check each note carefully as there are a number of (noticeably) fake bills in circulation.

4. There have been a few cases of handbags being snatched after one has cashed money at banks or money changers. Put your money away in your ‘bum-bag’ or hold onto your handbag tightly.

5. Credit cards and charge cards: Today many hotels, shops large and small accept plastic, with the proviso that an additional 3% is added onto your bill. However, when traveling to the village, take rupiah with you. Keep small change handy when riding in public transports or buying drinks at warung.

6. Make sure you either have personal insurance or travel insurance that will cover you in any accidents. If you rent a car (must be with insurance), beware of motorbikes, as there are too many on the road. When you park the car, always remember to remove all your properties. Crime is on the increase and can spoil your holiday. Be careful with your belongings at all times. Cases of handbag snatching have been reported, so leave important documents in your hotel safe (carry photocopies). Do not forget to look and listen while you cross the road. Cars may stops, motorbikes may not!

7. Going to Bali, dress casually. Take light clothes, as the weather is warm-to – hot throughout the year. Remember Bali is a land where prayer and religious festivals take center stage. When visiting a temple or attending ceremonies, make it a point to respect local customs and traditions. Always wear a sarong and sash. Do not walk in front of people praying. Do not use a flash camera or point your camera to the priest’s face. Do try not to step on offerings in the street (walk around them). Women are not allowed to enter temples during menstruation.

8. Do not take drugs! It can carry the death penalty, and there are enough foreigners residing in Bali courtesy of the Government prison service.

9. Do not swim outside designated swimming areas on the beach, current/undertows can be very strong. Swim between the red and yellow flags. Don’t swim too far out. Do not leave your belongings unattended on the beach.

10. Health: International health certificates of vaccination against smallpox, cholera, and yellow fever are required only from travelers from infected areas. Typhoid and paratyphoid vaccinations are optional but still advisable. Drink only distilled or mineral water, or water that has been boiled and eat a lot of fresh fruit and do your body a favor. Don’t worry too much about ice, it’s government quality controlled in established bars and restaurants. Most people traveling through Bali get the infamous “Bali Belly” at some time or other. Taking Imodium will stop this. At the first time of discomfort (diarrhea and cramping), drink strong, hot tea and avoid all fruits and spicy foods. Taking charcoal tablets will help alleviate the cramping.”

Technorati Tags: Bali vacation, Bali vacation packages, Indonesia vacations

Traditional dances, Balinese parades, street bazaars, art shows and performances, food stalls…

You can enjoy all this on your Bali vacation at the Sanur Village Festival which is being held on 12-16 August 2009.

Sanur is a traditional fishing village in the South of Bali, and has still close connections to the sea. It is a striving tourist town now, stretched along the southeastern coastline and protected by a shallow reef.

When the tide is out, you can carefully walk for miles out on the reef and observe the starfish and other aquatic life that has been left on the reef and waiting for the next tide.

If you do decide to go on the reef, be careful not to damage the marine environment. Coral reefs have developed over millions of years. Always wear stout shoes because the corals are sharp, and keep an eye out for poisonous creatures that you don’t want to stand on.

Along the entire sanur beach stretches a beach boulevard where you can take a lazy stroll among Balinese cafes and restaurants. It’s especially picturesque early mornings when the sun rises, and the locals and visitors walk the beach to see a red sun coming out of the sea in the East, and being reflected on the calm early morning sea.

Popular during the day are the various Bali vacation water sports and activities, on the beach and within and beyond the reef. The parascending looks particularly exciting although I have never tried it. A motorboat tows you behind while you soar up above the lagoon.

Local fishing boats are dotted colorfully on the beach and in the water. Therefore, in keeping with the traditional fishing community, this year’s Festival has the theme of “Marine Life”. It promises to be a very exciting 4 days of activities for the whole family.

Sanur is about 30 minutes drive away from Denpasar International Airport, and your hotel may have a free transfer service. Ask for it when you book one of the many superb accommodations in Sanur.

Technorati Tags: Asia, Bali vacation, Bali vacation packages, sanur, travel

Find the Moment in a Private Villa
by Putu Eka Saringsih

When you have your family, friends or couple traveling away from home, sometimes the atmosphere of seclusion for couple, togetherness for family, excitement for youngsters will be hard to be wrapped in a set especially on Bali Island. Moreover budget is considered as an important item for selecting the right accommodation. Sometimes when you are away for holiday, pleasurable is the main interest. The holiday will not be as you dream if there is a point that can’t accomplish all wishes of every member of the family.

Staying in a budget hotel with limited space for bedroom, small bathroom and regular amenities will be less convenience for family and those who travel with friends. Even staying in a luxurious hotel can be another additional cost for couple. Moreover, there will be no personal service staff to serve in continual.

Enjoying holiday with all the luxuries of five stars hotel can be experienced with less cost than the famous hotel budget. Stay in a beautiful private villa with its comfortable bedroom, spacious living room and great bathroom you ever dream of. An outdoor bathroom with traditional design and standing shower will be another excitement for you to experience. In addition, a private swimming pool is available surrounded by lush tropical garden. Around the pool you may hold a family gathering or party as well since a villa is designed similar to your private residence with deluxe services inclusively a special chef for your choice of cuisines. Tranquility appears from the green garden itself where tropical plants and flowers become the surrounding view. For your convenience, a professional butler is organized to accomplish your needs during the stay.

Neither modern nor traditional villa would not be a disappointment for the architecture and amenities all reveal the culture of Balinese tradition and most of the furniture made of teak or wood, as it is one of the island characteristics. Even the room is designed with the air of nature as well as some villas have the Balinese style with the unique gazebo.

Discover the magnificence of the paradise while you are enjoying the indulgence of private villa. Make fantastic moment on your great holiday!!!

Putu Eka Saringsih is one of the expert writer at topbalivillas.com” target=”_blank Bali Villas and villasbali.org” target=”_blank Villas in Bali.It is an internet based company which creates and manages websites that are all directly related to hospitality services in Bali.

Technorati Tags: accommodation, Bali vacation packages, Indonesia vacations

by Adi Arifin

The launching of the new Bvlgari resort in Bali has one of the greatest news for travel industry this year. Carrying a brand recognized for ultimate luxury, the world’s second Bvlgari resort after Milan, Bvlgari Resort Bali has just taken over the top position of the island’s portfolio of luxury holiday accommodation. Priced at $1,250 for one bedroom villa and $1,950 for two bedrooms villa, luxury perfection and service excellence are of no questions.
However, whether that such type off accommodation fits your needs, is just a different question. If you are spending a family vacation in a rather larger group, you would prefer a big house with sufficient number of bedrooms and spacious communal area inside out, rather than scattered around in small separated self-contained private villas.
Villa Rental Bali introduces LaGen Cliff Villa, a 6-bedrooms luxury private villa on the cliff-top of Uluwatu. Established as a family holiday home of a highly respected Japanese family, LaGen Cliff reflects the ultimate luxury throughout, from the finest imported materials to fittings, furnishings, equipments, and décor. Sit commanding the Indian Ocean from its cliff-top location, the villa enjoys stunning ocean views from sunrise to sunset, from virtually every inch. All en-suited luxury bedrooms, spacious living areas, state of the art entertainment room, a unique Japanese tatami room, two swimming pools with Jacuzzi, three viewing gazebos, the villa is ready to comfortably accommodate up to 12 discerning guests.
Exclusively managed by Exotiq Villa Services, the island’s leading villa management company, its 13+ dedicated staffs, including in-house manager, professional chef, in-house engineer, maids, gardeners, driver, and certified security guards, are well trained to provide beyond 5 star quality service to pamper your stay.
Saving the best for last, whilst clientele of this level are more concerned with excellence than price, the comparative below is possibly just to worthy to miss out. This six bedrooms luxury is available at less than $1,000 per night in the peak season. Definitely less than $150 per night. Compare it yourself with $1,250 for a one bedroom villa at the Bvlgari, or a deluxe ocean-view suites at 5 star resort hotels nearby like The Intercontinental or Bali Cliff Resorts.
Check more detail at Villa Rental Bali

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/6-bedrooms-bvlgari-how-can-an-ultimate-luxury-is-so-affordably-priced-64768.htm

Technorati Tags: accommodation, Bali vacation packages, Indonesia vacations