Tourist Destinations to See With Your Bali Car Hire

Millions of people each year spend their vacations on the island of Bali, the wealthiest island in Indonesia and one that continues to grow as a popular destination for international tourism. Predominantly Hindu in a nation that is majority-Muslim, the island of Bali has retained a unique blend of the Hindu and native animist cultures. Its ceremonies, rituals, and more than 20,000 temples have earned it the nickname "Island of the Gods" - and many of those temples are popular sightseeing destinations for visitors who traverse the island using a Bali car hire.

A Bali car hire is simply the most sensible way to ensure that you are able to visit every site you wish to see on the island. With no railroad infrastructure and little by way of mass transit, travelling by car is the most efficient way to get from one place to another. One four-lane express, the Ngurah Rai, traverses the large population centers of the southern part of Bali, providing quick and easy access to various cities, temples, and other sites of interest.

Your Bali car hire can safely get you to such tourist destinations as Lovina, Jimbaran, and Sanur. In Lovina, you can experience the majestic beauty of sandy beaches formed by black volcanoes, as well as some of the most gorgeous coral reefs in the world. Jimbaran is home to a well-sheltered beach that is surrounded by seaside resort buildings. Sanur's beaches and resorts are popular destinations for many older visitors and their families.

For a day of shopping, followed by a night on the town, it is hard to resist driving your Bali car hire to Kuta. The area s also home to some of the finest surfing to be found on the island. Seminyak is another location with many beaches and resorts, and a site with some of the island's most chic restaurants and clubs - always a hot spot for young visitors to Bali. For a more traditional and culturally enriching outing, Ubud offers a range of dance, art, museums, and craft shops - providing a great deal of the unique Bali flavor that most visitors want to experience.

Of course, the cities are not the only destinations to which smart visitors steer their Bali car hire. A visit to Mount Agung will allow you to view the Besakih "mother temple", while a trip to Bukit Peninsula enables you to view the spectacular temple of Uluwatu - that literally hangs from a cliff! For a day at the mountain lakes, you can travel to Bedugul and feast your eyes on the renowned temple of Ulun Danu Bratan. Or, if your tastes run to the more naturally explosive things of life, the live volcano at Kintamani - Mount Batur - always offers the potential for a truly fascinating day.

With your Bali car hire, you can schedule almost any activity on the island. Golfing, snorkeling, hiking, and diving are all available for visitors, as are trips to almost every area of this island of more than 3 million people. If you're a bird lover, be sure to make time for the national park of West Bali, where you can observe the exotic variety of feathered creatures that Bali has to offer.

By Fransiskus Hendri

Luxury Honeymoon Packages

One man's honeymoon package might be another man's budget buster. There are so many expenses for weddings that the honeymoon package might not get the happy couple very far from home. Although the expenses of a wedding are substantial, there are some great Luxury honeymoon packages available. One idea for a Luxury honeymoon package requires getting someone else to pay for the honeymoon as a wedding gift. People often ask what the couple would like to have as a gift, and a contribution toward part of the honeymoon might be an option.

Some of the cruise ships have some very Luxury honeymoon packages, and life on a cruise ship can be a great way to unwind from the hectic schedule and duties of planning a wedding. The cruise ships go to all the corners of the world so the possibilities are most attractive. There are some Luxury honeymoon packages that go to the Thailand, Bali, Australia, Row and Europe. A cruise on a luxury ship is always a good way to relax while visiting interesting ports of call. Sunbathing on the deck or swimming in the pool on the way to fabulous destinations is a great way to spend part of the honeymoon. There should be a cruise available for many different wedding budgets.

Honeymoon Tour packages are available for many different goals and objectives. Those who want to go to the beach will probably find that the closer the beach the more honeymoon travel package. Those with a large budget might hit the beach in Tahiti while those with the smaller budget will want to go to the East Coast or the West Coast depending on the proximity to the starting point. Those who want to play golf on their honeymoon might go to Scotland if the budget permits but Phoenix if funds are more limited. There are great golf courses in both places and some honeymoon package tours available to each destination.

Honeymoon packages might be more Luxury if these are booked far in advance of the departure dates. A couple might be able to arrange a house exchange to save some money on their honeymoon. There are homes available for exchange all around the world for those with a home to exchange. These exchanges often include cars and other amenities as well. This type of deal would save all funds needed for housing while on the honeymoon. Accommodations are often a large part of any honeymoon bill. A camping trip is another way to save on accommodations for those who enjoy the great outdoors.

By Antu

The Seven Wonders of the Caribbean

Kaieteur Falls, Guyana Kaieteur National Park is situated on the Guiana Shield, a plateau that is one of the world's oldest and remotest geological formations. The entire Kaieteur National Park area is located within one of the largest and most biodiverse rainforests in the world.

Kaieteur Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. It has a free fall height of more than 700 feet, making it about five times taller than Niagara Falls It is one of the few places in the world where endangered species are easily observed. Specially designed on-site nature walks place you face-to-face with the many and varied exotic plant and animal species. Kaieteur can be admired close-up or filmed at varying distances and from numerous camera angles; aerial views of the Falls are truly spectacular.

The Pitons, St Lucia St Lucia possesses a topography and ecology of stunning beauty, matched by no other location in the Caribbean. The island's pride in its natural resources is evident in the country's ongoing protection and conservation efforts. 
In the mountainous interior lies the enormous National Rain Forest and the island's protected coastal sights include the breathtaking, unforgettable spires of Les Pitons. Located near Soufriere, these primeval twin peaks, topping 2,000 feet, are St Lucia's most famous landmark. Only the most daring climbers have attempted an ascent on their summits, but they can be seen in all their glory from Mt Gimie or from the decks of a boat offshore.

Now dormant, the Sulphur Springs is the world's only drive-in volcano. A tour of its bubbly, steamy sulphur springs offers a direct and fascinating lesson in the violent geology of the Caribbean Rim.

The Pitch Lake, Trinidad The Pitch Lake or Asphalt Lake of Trinidad and Tobago is situated in the southwest peninsula of the island of Trinidad. It has fascinated explorers, scientists and the common folk since its discovery by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1595. Raleigh himself found immediate use for the asphalt to caulk his ship. Since then, there have been numerous research investigations into the use and chemical composition of this material. Above all, there have been countless theories, postulations and conclusions as to the size, source and origin of the asphalt. The Asphalt Lake is at present an oval, lake-like outcrop composed of an oil, clay and water (mud) mixture. The asphalt from the Lake is of economic value to Trinidad and Tobago. Some 10 million tons have been mined since mining started in 1867. The refined product is used in the manufacturing and road surfacing industries.

Harrison Cave, Barbados Although historical references were made to Harrison's Cave from as early as the 18th century, no serious exploration of the cave was carried out until 1970, when speleologist, Ole Sorensen, was commissioned by the Barbados National Trust to make a survey and map the cave. Sorensen immediately recognised the potential of the cave and recommended that it be landscaped and developed. Four years later, work on the cave began, drawing on scientific, artistic, technological and geological resources.

The work involved digging tunnels, improving lighting and diverting of underground streams. A unique phenomenon of nature, Harrison's Cave is an amazing gallery of stalactites hanging from the roof of the cave, and stalagmites that emerge from the ground, with streams of crystal-clear running water that drop from breathtaking waterfalls to form deep emerald pools. The stalactites and stalagmites were formed over thousands of years and in some places the stalactites have reached down to the stalagmites and a spectacular pillar has been formed.

Stingray City, Grand Cayman Located in the shallow waters of the northwest corner of Grand Cayman's North Sound, the waters are filled with "friendly" stingrays, that can be fed by hand You'll find this anomaly just inside a natural channel that passes through the barrier, it consists of a string of sand bars that cross the North Sound from Morgan Harbour to Rum Point. Local legend has it that the stingrays began gathering in the area decades ago when fisherman would return from an excursion and go behind a reef into the sound and clean their fish in the calm water of the shallows and sand bar area. The fish guts were simply thrown overboard and the stingrays eventually congregated to feast on the discarded guts. Soon the stingrays began to associate the sound of a boat with a free meal. As this practice turned into a tradition, local divers realised that the stingrays could be fed by hand. There are three ways to experience these bottom-dwelling, prehistoric-looking creatures that feed primarily on molluscs and crustaceans and each involves a short boat ride to the sandbar area at the North Sound. Divers or snorkelers who dare to get into the water experience an adrenaline rush as the stingrays rub against you with their bodies and "wings".

The most popular is a snorkelling trip, which has been called the best snorkeling experience in the world. This trip normally occurs in the heart of the sandbar where the water is only three to five-feet deep.

The second way to experience Stingray City is as a scuba diver. Dive groups consist of 10 to 20 divers, wearing no fins as they may hurt the congregating stingrays. The divers are over-weighted, which keeps them on the bottom and the dive master swims from diver to diver dispersing diced squid and fish pieces. Stingrays quickly surround the divers. The third way to experience Stingray City is via a glass bottom boat, which is a good alternative if the weather is too windy for snorkeling.

Citadelle Henri Christophe Fortress, Haiti High above Haiti's once-fertile northern plains, like a stone ship jutting through the clouds, stands one of the engineering marvels of the New World, now largely abandoned to nature and the few tourists who climb the winding cobblestone track to visit the crumbling stone fortress.

The Citadelle, built by King Henri Christophe at the beginning of the 19th century to defend against invaders, atop a 3,000-foot mountain called Bonnet-a-l'Eveque, or the Bishop's Miter is the largest fortress in the Western Hemisphere. It is Haiti's most revered national symbol, of brilliance in its building but of cruelty in the forced labour that cost up to 20,000 lives.

Understanding the Citadelle is crucial to understanding Haiti's turbulent history as the only nation whose birth was the result of a successful slave rebellion. The fort is a symbol of the will to fight for one's freedom.

So impressive is the fortress, stretched across the mountain peak, with sheer cliffs on three sides and the only point of access subject to withering cannon fire, that the United Nations included the Citadelle in its list of cultural treasures, along with the Acropolis, the pyramids of Egypt and the temple of Borobudur in Indonesia.

While some reconstruction has been carried out, cannons and cannon balls litter the structure and parts of it are off-limits because they are in danger of tumbling down.
"The Citadelle reflects the dreams our fathers had for the country," said former president Jean-Bertrand Aristide. "Their dreams of freedom and dignity. Unfortunately, it was carried out with slavery, and hopefully today we can continue their project, but without the roots of slavery."

Dunn's River Falls, Jamaica Jamaica's most famous visitor attraction is the stunning Dunn's River Falls and Beach.
Many visitors climb the waterfalls from the beach right to the top, stopping on the way to enjoy the cool plunge pools formed naturally in the river rocks and the waterfalls that are gentle in some places and positively thunder in others. When you get to the top, you will feel refreshed and invigorated.

Photographed millions of times, Dunn's River was prominently featured in the very first James Bond film, Dr No. Countless other film crews have followed that lead. Champagne underwater hot springs,Dominica

Approaching Dominica by sea, it is easy to see how Victorian writers could imagine remnant populations of dinosaurs surviving in the tropics, as described in novels like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's The Lost World. The island looks primeval and pristine, craggy and dense with rainforest; its rugged interior is almost uninhabited, leading to the nickname "Nature Island".

Dominica is one of the youngest islands in the volcanic Caribees and it is still being formed by volcanic activity, making it an ideal destination for the geologically minded traveller. One of the most famous sites called "Champagne" is actually within snorkelling distance. It is easy to see why it got its name: Underwater hot springs discharge carbon dioxide gas into a water column, which form bubbles, creating the illusion of a carbonated beverage or a giant Jacuzzi.

By Derrick Ormonde

How to Find the Best Last Minute Vacation Packages

Last minute vacation packages are in abundance because vacation package providers usually slash prices when the travel date is very close and there are still several un-booked packages left. If you can stand the suspense, waiting until the last minute to book can be very rewarding. There are also cancellations to think about so even if the packages are fully booked, you can come across a great bargain every now and then when someone cancels their trip. In that case, you may want to get on a waiting list to ensure that you are given priority when someone cancels.

In order to find out about the best last minute vacation packages, you will probably want to sign up for email alerts on websites that publish travel deals and last minute bargains. To avoid having your email inbox filled to the brim with travel deal emails, you may want to create a separate email account solely for the purpose of receiving travel deal alerts. Typically, the best last minute packages are found around three weeks before departure. However, you may be able to find really good deals at the very last minute, such as within 48 hours of departure. If your schedule is flexible, you can take advantage of such bargains. In order to stay on top of all the deals, email alerts are very helpful.

By searching on some of the major travel deal websites, you can get an idea of the median prices of last minute packages to your desired destination. If you're pretty flexible about where you want to go on vacation, simply enter your departure city on one of these travel deal sites and view all of the packages that are available.

In some cases, packages will allow you to take a vacation for a cost that is half of the trip's actual value. Airlines and hotels want to fill as many vacancies as possible so as the travel date approaches, prices tend to drop significantly. Rather than signing up for alerts and doing online research, you can also contact a travel agency and let them do the research for you.

You can find the best deals by being flexible about what time and date you travel. The best deals are usually found for trips that depart mid-week. It is more expensive to travel during the weekend. A Saturday night stay is usually required in order to take advantage of the lowest airfares. If you want to travel over the weekend, search now for vacation deals that depart the upcoming weekend. Low airfares are published on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for travel during the upcoming weekend.

Just remember that if you travel at the last minute, you have to be very flexible. You may not be able to stay in your hotel of choice. The key to finding the greatest bargains is being open to accepting whatever deals turn up. This kind of flexibility will enable you to grab great travel opportunities when they arise.

By Melissa Schwarz

Top Destinations for Traveling Nurses

The great thing about being a traveling nurse boils down to one key component - it's about the travel! For those of us who love moving around and seeing the world, travel nursing is the profession of our dreams. There are many travel destinations available, based on weather, activities, cost of living, and salary. Therefore, I have gathered a list of my "Top Ten" destinations that nurses choose, based on the number of travelers who inquire about each location every month. Are you a travel RN scouting a new assignment? Then I'd like to suggest the following ten "Hot Spots":

HAWAII - It's no shock that Hawaii generates over 500 travel nursing inquiries per month. The wide range of outdoor activities from snow-capped mountains to snow-white sandy beaches elevates Hawaii to one of those meccas where you can build a snowman or a sand castle all in one day. Nurses tell me that you'll discover virtually every type of outdoor activity imaginable-hiking trails that wind through erupting volcanoes, secret beaches, and lush green ranchlands. Many travelers also hunt, mountain bike, go rafting, and golf on some of the world's most extravagant courses.

ALASKA - Travel nurses are intrigued by the possibilities of Alaska's rugged mystery. Alaska is a huge wilderness with beautiful scenery, and travel nursing assignments offer plenty of time to see and do everything you want, whether in winter's darkness under northern lights, or the glorious spring and summer where it's light most of the time. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Alaska for its' wildlife, spectacular natural landscape, and fishing expeditions where the fish really are as big as the stories about which they're told. Countless day cruises and sightseeing expeditions abound, as well as opportunities to hike, kayak, canoe, ski... Need we say more?

MONTANA - Whether photographer, adventurer, or both, Montana is truly a state that beckons with open arms. River trips, fishing and camping, history, snowy mountain ranges, and waterfalls are what you'll encounter, along with plenty of open space to explore. Assignments in Montana appeal to those travel nurses who just need some time to break away from their city grind to enjoy marching to the beat of an entirely different drummer. The Big Sky Country boasts some of America's most famous mountains, canyons, river valleys, forests, grassy plains, badlands, and caverns, and many travelers find it just irresistible enough to keep coming back.

MAINE - Maine's splendor has inspired artists like Georgia O'Keefe and three generations of the Wyeth family, since the mid-nineteenth century. Travel nurses can't resist at least one adventure in this charming getaway. Whether you embark on outdoor adventures like skiing and snowmobiling, or if you prefer the cozy ambience of antiquing through charming villages or just strolling or riding horseback on miles of sandy beaches in the smell of salt air, Maine is legendary and offers some wonderful travel nursing experiences. Its' unique culture is outdoorsy and quaint, and of course you get to enjoy lobster as the locals do-fresh from the ocean!

CALIFORNIA - Warm weather and world-famous beaches make California a favorite choice for traveling nurses. Nine-hundred miles of coastline gives nurses in all locations the chance to spend many hours near the waves; and for nature lovers, California is home to many wildlife parks, remote wilderness areas, and safe-havens for endangered animals. If you're an excitement junkie, you can scout out a wide selection of theme parks; and no matter what your taste in music, concerts abound in every type of venue. Historic sites and museums invite, as do five-star restaurants and clubs in which to see and be seen. The shopping is unparalleled, whether it's trendy Melrose Place, La Jolla, or the strand in Venice Beach; and of course it's home to Hollywood, and, yes, movie stars. Whether northern, southern, or coastal locations, traveling nurses return to California time and again.

WASHINGTON - The Evergreen State boasts the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, the Cascade Mountains, desert experiences, rain forests, towering volcanoes, glaciers, and lush wine country. Washington State rates high on the list of many nurse travelers. Must-sees are the Space Needle and Coulee Dam. The culture here is incredibly diverse; sophisticated, outdoorsy, and loaded with resorts, history, parks, museums, and botanical gardens. Whether touring downtown Seattle for cozy antique and book stores, exploring ancient Indian grounds, or hiking and biking mountains or trails, Washington holds a strong allure for many nurse travelers.

SOUTH CAROLINA - Endless adventure, excitement, fun and exploration represent why South Carolina is always a favorite destination for travel nurses. America's oldest landscaped gardens frame mansions rife with historical heritage, in addition to pristine beaches and legendary marshy wetlands. For all you golfers, with over 330 golf courses, there's always a new place to swing your clubs. But what fascinates many traveling nurses is the rich heritage in which South Carolina has paved the roads of culture, art, and folklore in our past. You can visit several historical areas and discovery centers of American history, including the American Revolution and the Civil War.

COLORADO - World-class winter skiing and summer music festivals in the mountains are just two reasons that nurses love traveling to Colorado. Boasting four spectacular seasons, Colorado is where travel nurses get to explore the state's 18 million acres of state and national parks, forests, and monuments for biking, hiking, fishing, mountain climbing, and kayaking, to name a few. Colorado has many cultural treasures, including ancient Native American sites and dinosaur fossil exhibits, historic ghost towns, and even award-winning vineyards in Grand Junction. And for those who enjoy city life, amid all this natural beauty lie wonderful metropolitan areas like Denver and Boulder, full of shopping, performing arts, and professional sports.

TENNESSEE - From energetic nights of blues on Beale Street, to gorgeous rolling acres of Tennessee Walker horse country, to peaceful Smoky Mountain sunsets, Tennessee is a vacation that offers many world-renowned attractions. Nurse travelers who visit Tennessee will find that they're within a day's drive of 75-percent of the U.S. population via quality interstates and highways. Attractions in Tennessee include the Jack Daniels' distillery, Elvis's Graceland, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, and lots of southern hospitality. And don't forget the crown jewel of the southern Appalachians, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. ARIZONA - If you adore the outdoors, then the Grand Canyon State might just be for you. The nurses who go there just rave about Arizona's landscape which takes in tall mountain ranges, swift rivers, grasslands, sand dunes, and cactus forests all set against a beautiful sky that glows pink in the sunset. The traveler nurses who enjoy history will find plenty of it here, including Old West reformations, Native American nations, and Spanish-influenced areas all in one state. Arizona is also home to the nation's greatest golf courses, resorts, spas, cabins, and ranches. As you can see, limitless possibilities exist for those nurses who want travel, fun, and adventure to be part of their daily lives. If you're a nurse who travels and it's time for you to move on to a new location, try one of these top travel nursing destinations and see what new experiences lie ahead.

By Josiah Walter

East Coast Beaches to West, Florida Beach locations in Sarasota County are Some of the Best!

Whether you are a winter visitor, vacationer or full-time resident, Florida's 1,200 miles of coastline is yours to enjoy and we're going to help you by giving you all of the details on the top west Florida beach locations including special amenities, recreational offerings, hours, pet regulations and more. Sarasota County is home to many well known towns including Sarasota, Venice, Englewood, Siesta Key and Longboat Key. Beautiful Sarasota Bay separates the county's barrier islands from the mainland. With its 40 miles of beaches, Sarasota County is one of America's most desirable places to live and to vacation.

Sarasota accommodations are varied and many, from Sarasota inns, to Sarasota resorts, to even Sarasota motels and the same is true throughout the County. You can find Sarasota vacations rentals in Siesta Key condos, Sarasota condominiums and Sarasota villas. Sarasota Restaurants throughout the County are many and palate pleasing! In Venice, Café Venice Restaurant & Wine Bar is the place to go. Cork on St. Armand's Circle in Sarasota was named "Best New Restaurant." It's a pretty exciting place with exciting food! Ophelia's on the Bay offers beautiful alfresco dining overlooking Sarasota Bay and Euphemia Haye on Longboat Key is legendary. Try them all!

On to the beaches!

Here are 6 of the 17 beaches in Sarasota County:

Blind Pass Beach Location: 6725 Manasota Key Road, one mile north of the Charlotte County line on Manasota Key Phone: 941-861-5000 Sarasota County Hours: sunrise to sunset Parking: free lot Amenities: ½ mile of beach and 66 acres gulf to bay, canoe launch, picnic shelter, nature trail, playground, restrooms, handicapped accessible Activities: swimming, fishing, sunbathing, surfing, walking canoeing, kayaking Pets: no Of Special Interest: In addition to enjoying this beautiful beach, canoeing, kayaking and fishing are popular in the coves and lagoon on the bayside.

Manasota Beach Location: 8570 Manasota Key Road, west end @ Manasota Beach Road. Phone: 941-861-5000 Sarasota County Hours: sunrise to sunset Parking: parking lots are free and plentiful Amenities: 1500 foot beach, 14 acres gulf to bay, lifeguards, boat ramps, boardwalk, docking facilities, dune walkovers, picnic shelters, restrooms, volleyball courts, handicapped accessible Activities: swimming, boating, fishing, shelling, walking, sunbathing Pets: no Of Special Interest: The beach is situated between the Gulf and the Intracoastal Waterway. On the Intracoastal side, a boat ramp and docking facilities are available allowing access to the Bay and Gulf. The 620 feet of dockage becomes a scenic boardwalk that meanders through the mangroves.

Casperson Beach Location: 4100 Harbor Drive, Venice, south of the airport Phone: 941-861-5000 Sarasota County Hours: sunrise to sunset Parking: free lots Amenities: 2 miles of beach, 177 acres, 1100 foot boardwalk, .34 mile nature trail, picnic area, restrooms Activities: swimming, shelling, walking, fishing, handicapped accessible Pets: no Of Special Interest: Caspersen is recognized as one of the most enjoyable shelling beaches in this area. This is an exceptionally good area to find prehistoric sharks' teeth. You can see freshwater and saltwater marshes, mangrove areas, and tidal flats. Enjoy a 20 minute walk through Caspersen's nature trail which has been developed through a coastal hammock. The southern two thirds of beachfront has been left in its natural state. A dune restoration system with walkovers has been implemented to preserve the shoreline.

Brohard Park Location: 1600 Harbor Drive on the Venice Airport property Phone: 941-861-5000 Sarasota County Hours: sunrise to sunset Parking: free lot Amenities: 84 acres, Venice municipal fishing pier, bait shop, Pelican Man Sanctuary, restrooms, food concession, restaurant nearby, Paw Park Activities: bird watching, swimming, fishing, sunbathing, walking, shelling Pets: yes, in Paw Park Of Special Interest: For dog lovers, at the south end of Brohard Beach is the Paw Park, with doggie drinking fountains, showers on decks for dogs only, fire hydrants and leash posts. Dog lovers have declared this park and beach to be the best doggy park in the state, where dogs are allowed to roam free.

Service Club Park Location: 1190 Harbor Drive, north of and adjacent to Brohard Beach, Venice Phone: 941-861-5000 Sarasota County Website: Hours: sunrise to sunset Parking: free lot Amenities: playground, picnic tables, restrooms and showers, handicapped access, playground, dune walkovers Activities: swimming, fishing, shelling, sunbathing, walking, fishing Pets: no

Venice Beach Location: 101 The Esplanade, west end of Venice Ave., Venice Phone: 941-861-5000 Sarasota County Hours: sunrise to sunset Parking: free lot Amenities: 2 miles of beach total, 7.5 acres, lifeguards, handicapped accessibility and handicapped wheelchairs, concessions, dune walkovers, pavilion, restrooms, volleyball courts Activities: scuba, snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, walking Pets: no Of Special Interest: A reef containing fossilized material is located a quarter mile offshore making it a favorite spot for local divers.

We hope you enjoy your stay on a west Florida beach, whether it's for the week, or for the rest of your life. Now what are you waiting for? Get swimming!

By Maria Norton

Sanur Vacation Villas Destination in Bali

The village of Sanur located on the eastern coast of Bali is the ideal beach for snorkeling as it is protected by a coral reef. In the 1930's Sanur was the beverly Hills of Bali, with many rich and famous people having lagoon area. Sanur is Bali's first beach resort, it is also Bali's largest traditional village. It is a place of remarkable contrasts: a golden mile of gorgeous hotels that attract millions of paradise seekers every year, and yet, within the very grounds of the 11-storey Grand Bali Beach, a war reparation gift from the Japanese, nestles the sacred and special temple of Ratu Ayu of Singgi, the much feared spirit of Sanur's fabled Black Barong.

Sanur conveniently located near Denpasar on the main road leading to the east, Sanur is not nearly as frantic as Kuta, nor as well-mannered as Nusa Dua. The main attraction here is the white sand beach bordering a reef-sheltered lagoon. The beach stretches south from the The Grand Bali Beach Hotel and ends up in the mangrove marshes opposite Serangan Island.

Sanur provide extraordinary luxury villas very well designed with large open plan areas , astonishing swimming pools, all the modern comfort to enjoy the unique climate and the incredible atmosphere. It's very easy to find private villas in Sanur. These retreats are available not only in contemporary style but also some offer idyllic ambiance and the right places to revitalize the body and soul. Ech of villas in Sanur entitle the guests to enjoy privacy, luxurious atmosphere wrapped by the tropical breezes, as well as the splendid furniture.

Each Bali villa in this area evokes exclusive package of accommodation, including some in-villa activities such as candle light dinner, in-villa spa, and private barbeque party. There are too many choices of entertainment and leisure that anyone can enjoy while staying at luxury Bali villa in Sanur. For booking one of the villa in Sanur just log in to www.balebali.com which operated by Bali Villas Network, a member of Bali Villa rental Association.

By dharma putra

Kerobokan Far Better Than Seminyak

Bali Island, the most celebrated island in Indonesia which has every thing as a tourist destination for all ages. Bali has unique blend of cultural and modern tourist destination. Bali has several area that mostly visited by travellers. From Cultural village to historicl village and dotn forget area that is pack with night life party. All available in Bali. But one of those area worth to mention is Kerobokan.

Kerobokan located to the north from business art shop, and restaurants between kuta, legian and seminyak city. Kerobokan is located 10 kilometer to west of Denpasar about 15 minutes drive from the Ngurah Rai the international airport in Bali. Kerobokan still retain its original nature untouched by the rush hour.

Here at kerobokan area there are many villas and boutique hotel are build which cause by the natural environment here are keeping well and many tourist chose this place as their second home. Kerobokan also the home of famous restuarant which serve the best cuisine. Its where Cafe Warisan born. Café warisan bar and restaurant offering many interesting menus from local and international cuisines especially Francis menus form lunch ala carte menu, dinner ala carte menu, lunch set menu, dinner set menu, and romantic dinner menu.

All of this unique blend are here at Kerobokan village. To fully enjoy the area around Kerobokan instead of staying at one of Bali's resorts, you are far more better by renting a private Bali villas in Kerobokan. Your vacation will be more relaxed because all your need already cater by your villa staff which can't be compare with staying at the most luxurious resorts on the island of Bali

By dharma putra

Single in Brisbane Australia? Meet the local singles!

Brisbane Australia is a major tourist attraction and is Australia's third largest city. 72% of Brisbane residents are aged between 18-49 years old making Brisbane an ideal hunting ground for singles looking for new relationships. Brisbane is romantic, friendly, and is rich in beauty and culture.

With a population of nearly 2 million people, Brisbane is an international city in it's own right and is also the capital of the state of Queensland. Brisbane city is nestled within the banks of the Brisbane River and comprises of a vibrant central business district which is the backbone of the Queensland economy. The city of Brisbane is a mix of young trendy adults through to professional singles and couples who can enjoy an array of tasty cuisine, cafes, pubs, pumping night clubs and shopping.

With so much on offer in Brisbane Queensland, it's little wonder it is the fastest growing state in Australia. Brisbane has undergone huge redevelopment in the past 10 years which has seen massive urban and city development/construction including implementation of infrastructure to accommodate the growth of The Greater Brisbane Region.

With it's never ending coastline and sunshine all year round, Queensland prides itself as the most spectacular holiday destination in Australia. The Gold Coast is famous for its beaches and theme parks. The Glass House Mountains present exhilarating lookouts, camping, picturesque bush walking trails and is near to Australia Zoo - home of the famous crocodile hunter - the late Steve Erwin. Noosa Heads is the tourism hub of The Sunshine Coast which has an up market look and feel to the place with trendy shopping villages, beaches, and hosts holidays to many local and international celebrities. The Great Barrier Reef is in the exclusive group of the 7 natural wonders of the world and is abundant with under water beauty. Tourists and diving enthusiasts flock here all year round to explore the underwater coral reefs, beaches and marine life.

Brisbane entertainment.

Looking to meet singles in Brisbane ? Brisbane is well known for its electric nightlife. Everything from pubs with outdoor beer gardens, to up market inner city wine bars, retro clubs blasting out the hits of the 80s and 90s and right down to night clubs pumping out house dance tunes with international and local DJs spinning the decks until the sun comes up. There's something to do in 'BrisVegas' 7 nights a week. Of course there are too many venues to mention them all but we think it's appropriate to make mention of one of Brisbane's iconic licensed establishments...

The Caxton. The Caxton Hotel claims to be one of Brisbane 's oldest licensed premises, which was established in 1884. Grouped amongst Caxton Street 's stylish restaurants, The Caxton caters to a varying demographic within its facilities. The cozy, modernistic hotel with air conditioning and state of the art audio and lighting, boasts 4 bars - including the illustrious Cauldron Bar, which has earned accolades such as Brisbane's best restaurant.

If night club or pub hopping isn't your thing, Brisbane singles are amongst the biggest online socialites in the country. If you are stuck for ideas on meeting new singles you should check out the online dating sites in Brisbane and try to attend some of the regular singles events hosted by the local online dating services in Brisbane. At least when you meet someone at an organised singles event, you don't find out 20 minutes into the conversation that the person your chatting up isn't single.
By Matt Dating

One of the Nicest Beachfront Belize Hotels on Ambergris Caye Belize

Why go elsewhere when you can stay at the Tranquility Bay Resort on Ambergris Caye in Belize

Tranquility Bay Resort is situated on a beautiful beachfront location not far from San Pedro. Think about a wide sandy beach on a palm fringed tropical island. Imagine only eleven beachfront Cabanas elegantly and luxuriously furnished, seven of which have two bedrooms, and four with one bedroom plus loft, making Tranquility Bay Resort the ideal destination either for a Belize Honeymoon or a Belize Family Vacation.

By the way the bedrooms are air conditioned with no telephones or televisions to interrupt your Belize vacation with 21st Century noise and disturbance.

You will look out onto a beautiful white sand beach, from your luxurious Queen size bed, and you'll be happy you chose the Tranquility Bay Resort because not only is the position of the resort excellent the Cabanas come fully equipped with refrigerator and microwave in addition to the top quality furnishings in your room. Quite frakly the views are to die for.

I'm not certain the kitchen equipment is necessary apart from being able to prepare snacks, because the Tranquility Bay Resort has an excellent eating place in the Tackle Box Sea Bar out over the water. What you will eat here is absolutely straight from the sea fresh fish, which was in the water that day, and local beef and chicken of good quality.

On the menu on a day you might find Fresh Conch cooked in lime, or jumbo shrimp in spiced chilli coconut sauce. Perhaps grilled pork chops or 'surf and turf', or even lobster tails. The food is good.

Because of the positioning of the Tranquility Bay Resort there is an enormous number of things to do if you bore of the beautiful beach, and the sunshine. As a base for fishing, snorkelling, sailing or scuba diving, you will find all you need virtually at your front door, and the sports staff will look after everything for you. Why not sail a Hobie Cat, or try kayaking, or windsurfing because everything you need is available, which includes snorkelling gear.

The Tranquility Bay Resort is a great spot for a Belize honeymoon, and you will be incredibly well looked after from the moment you are met off the plane, taken to the boat you will be made to feel very special, and what could be more romantic than being accompanied by frolicking dolphins as you make the short crossing.

You will find of all the hotels on Ambergris Caye, that the The Tranquility Bay Resort has one of the best, if not the best situations in terms of views and swimming, which by the way is in a clear turquoise sea, positively teeming with fish. The great thing about snorkelling here, is that you can take a kayak out to the reef quite easily, then tie it up, and snorkel to your heart's content.

Not only does the personal care and attention make this Belize hotel perfect for a honeymoon, the activities make for a great belize family vacation, and of course the two bedroom cabanas make for great family accommodation.

Finally a word about the staff, or more appropriately to learn from guests who without exception praise the staff, their friendliness, their willingness to be of help, and their general caring attitude.

The Tranquility Bay Resort could be the answer to the perfect Belize honeymoon, or Belize Family vacation, so check it out.

By Jim Brown

The Waikiki Beach Vacation

Located on the sun drenched Hawaiian Island of Oahu, Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous and well known beaches in the entire world, with luxurious hotels and beach clubs set right on the beach. The famous Kalakaua Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach, offers you a shoppers paradise with fine restaurants and nightly entertainment.

Waikiki Beach is also known for its gentle waves which are ideal for beginner surfers. You can rent surboards and gear on the beach, even take lessons if you have never surfed before.

Catamaran rides to and from Diamond Head are also offered by several different companies as well, with depart times varying. Other activities on your vacation include kayaking, swimming, and outrigger canoeing.

Restaurants There are several restaurants located right on Waikiki Beach, such as Duke's Canoe Club and the Surf Room. When the evening sets in, you can enjoy a romantic dinner while you watch the sun set over the beautiful and amazing Pacific Ocean.

Waikiki Beach hotels As you travel along the beach from west to east beginning in Diamond Head, you'll encounter several first class hotels such as Hilton Hawaiian Village, Sheraton Waikiki, Outrigger Hawai, the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, and several others.

The Waikiki difference While there are several other spots for your beach vacation, few manage to capture the beauty and tranquility that Waikiki offers. Hawaii has long been known for a tropical paradise, with Maui being an excellent example. Hawaii offers several beaches, with Waikiki being one of the best.

If you've been looking for the ideal place for your beach vacation, you shouldn't hesitate to go to Waikiki. You can find discounts on hotel rooms at different times of the year, making it the perfect opportunity to check out everything Hawaii will provide you and your family with.

By rogwer ricafort

Discover Hawaii this vacation

What to see/ discover in Hawaii? * A new culture. * Picturesque scenery * Beach & Sun * Marine Biology * Diving * Active lava Flow - Increase you knowledge of geology. * Learn about Polynesian culture * Go Hiking, and reward yourself with most beautiful sights on earth. And one thing you don't need to worry about is snakes; there is virtually no snake population in any of the Hawaiian Islands. * Whale watching - Watch a Humpback whale splash its tale. * Invoke your inner spirit; meditate in natural surroundings. * Connect: Hawaii is the best place for romance, nothing more romantic than sitting beside each other and watching sun dip into the ocean or lying on the beach on a moon less night at gazing at the stars. A little about Hawaii Hawaii is the one of the 50 States of US. It was admitted into the Union on 21st August 1959. It is the only sate entirely made up of islands, there are eight "main islands" (from the northwest to southeast) Ni'ihau, Kaua'i, O'ahu, Moloka'i, Lāna'i, Kaho'olawe, Maui, and Hawai'i. The last is by far the largest, and is often called the "Big Island" or "Big Isle" to avoid confusion with the state as a whole. Hawaii is the most isolated island on earth. The nearest land is around 2400 miles away (California). People started inhabiting these islands 300 - 400 AD. And Captain James cook discovered these islands in 1778 and announced its existence to the world. Middle of pacific ocean; Hawaii being a strategic location, had always been object of interest to most of the super powers from the beginning of its discovery in 1776.Hawaii was once upon a time a kingdom and was an independent nation for a short time. Union of the Hawaiian Islands with the US in 1959 brought new prospects to the islands. US presence in the middle of the Pacific Ocean not only strengthened the US stronghold but also brought peace to the region. And also promotion of tourism has brought in revenue for the development of the population in the islands. The islands are the most popular among the holiday makers. The white sand beaches, clear water, high surfs, coral reefs, active volcano's , Picturesque trekking trails, whale watching, horseback rides and not to forget the Beautiful Hula Dance are something's that invite everyone to Hawaii, and they keep coming back. Getting to Hawaii is simple there are number of with Cheap Air Tickets available from all major US airports, Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York, Chicago etc. And there are number of hotels, budget or star matching your pocket. Remember if your are planning for an Hawaiian holiday try booking for your flights and hotels as early as possible. The Flight tickets tend to be cheaper booked in advance at least a month in advance. And also try not to book in festive season. You may secure with Flight Tickets if you don't opt for week end flights, and opt for flights which either takeoff or land at odd times such as early in the mornings or late at night.

Bali Flights

Bali is a small tropical island and is one over 20 thousand islands that make up Indonesia. Getting there by plane is fairly easy from any country. Before making a decision to book your flight or Bali hotel, you want to find out what the status is with regards Bali visa requirements for your specific country. If you're coming from an Indonesian country then you do not need a visa but may need to pay air{port tax as you enter the country, whatever your visa is or the kind of ticket you bought you will have to pay an entry and exit tax. Even if your ticket specifies that airport tax has been paid, you'll still have to pay at the airport before boarding your flight and when you land, so keep some local Indonesian Rupiahs handy.

Most western nationals don't have to make an application for a visa either, but will have to pay as much as $30 for a visa when they arrive. The process is reasonably quick and there are loads of manned stations to make it go as fast as possible. For other countries a visa will need to be obtained before flying. Wherever you are coming from it's a smart move to find out the newest up to date info from the local Balinese embassy.

When flying into Bali you may arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport. Often you will find websites that talk about two airports, Ngurah Rai International airport and Denpasar International, but they're one and the same. Ngurah Rai international airport is situated in the southernmost part of Bali on the west coast not far from the majority of the holiday maker areas. There are plans to build a new airport near the tip of the west coast at Jembrana with 2012 being the proposed finish date. This is designed to replace Ngurah Rai as the international airport and is going to be an extremely modern, well designed airport. The official name so far is Jembrana City International airport but the general public are referring to it as the New Bali International airport.

Ngurah Rai International airport is the main gateway to the remainder of Indonesia and many global destinations. There are over 20 major airlines that fly out and in of Ngurah Rai International airport. The biggest carriers of international passengers are ; Garuda Indonesia Airline, Jetstar Airline, Virgin Blue Airline, Singapore Airline, Thai Air Airline and Air Asia Airline. The other airlines will service mostly domestic and short haul flights to bordering Indonesian countries.

There are always countless daily Bali flights from Singapore and a few other Indonesian countries with the longer international hauls flying a few times a week. Flight times and schedules always change so just check with your travel agent when flights go to Bali from your country. The less expensive long haul flights will in all probability have one if not two stop over's before landing in Bali and even some of the first class tickets will involve a stopover depending where you are travelling from.
By Gary Capps

Ubud Hilltop Villas With Amazing View to The River

Bali Island, the perfect holiday destination in the world. This tropical island of paradise has a unique blend of modern tourist facilities combined with wonderful shopping and a rich past and heritage. Some of the best surfing beaches in the world can be found on Bali island of paradise.

Ubud is a remarkable town in the middle of the island of Bali. Ubud is located 35 km northeast of Bali's International Airport. Ubud has been the center of fine arts, dance and music for more than a century. Elegant five star hotels and sprawling Bali villas now stand on its outskirts, overlooking the most prized views in Bali. Nonetheless, Ubud is still popular with backpackers, mystics and all the finest fringe elements of global society.

Ubud offers you various choices of private villas and holiday homes for your lovely holiday. There are many types of Bali villa which you can rent ranging from luxury river gorge villa, ricefields view villa to hilltop villas with amazing view to river below. All of them are available for long-term and short-term rental.

Ubud villas rental is the ideal for family's vacation, wedding ceremony, corporate meeting etc. Villa rental in Ubud is the alternative way for you to stay in Bali. Villa rental can be cheaper than staying in a luxury hotel and more comfortable than guesthouse. For booking Bali villas in Ubud just go for one of well known company with its network of Bali villas. www.balebali.com operated by Bali Villas Network will help you to find all your villas needs.

By dharma putra

Dreamland Beach

The Dreamland is the name of area where previously is designed as as elite resident. Dreamland is located in the Pecatu countryside around 20 minutes from the Bali's International Airport (Ngurah Rai) or around 20 km from Denpasar. The sunset panorama is also dominating this beach and now many people have come for resting.

Dreamland beach is similiar in nature to the other beaches in Bukit Peninsula, but it is popular not only with the surfers also with the beach lovers. It easy access combined with the pressence of warungs BBQ seafood and cold beer make it attractive to anyone who just wants to get away from the hustle of kuta life. The area has a beautiful beach and panorama, with the high wave reaching 4 meters makes this place become a favorite place for surfers and boogie boards. The wave is hollow, fast and powerful and the quality is standard with reef's (coral, sharp rock with sand) bottom, can only be safely explore by experinced surfer. During the normal day, it will be few people do the surf, but at the weekend this place is crowded.

The sparkling blue wave breaks right on the shore so be careful or you'll be eating sand (and watch out for the rock on the left a couple of meters off shore!!)

Balinese Rites and Ceremony

One doesn't have to be the island for very long to appreciate that Balinese life seems to be an endless parades of rites and ceremonies. The combination of Hindu religious rituals and the local "adat istiadat" of the Balinese result in a cycle of event which paces the sun and the moon through the season. Ceremonies also mark the procession of human life from the womb to the grave.

The various ceremonies center on different parts of Balinese life. Ceremonies for the Gods are much different than the ceremonies for human. For example,"Odalan" is a ceremonies for the Godsand the anniversary of a temple;this is the time when God is invited to bless the daily prayers in that temple.

Two of the most visible ceremonies are concerned with human. "Metatah" or the tooth-filing ceremony, is for Balinese 16-18 years of age. This ceremony is as a sign of maturity and indicates that the kids have reached the age where they need more guidance, love and care from their parent. Perhaph the best known ceremony is "Ngaben", the cremation ceremony to purify the soul of the death. Many visitors to Bali find themself enthralled by the cremation ritual, which can go for days with much pomp and celebration.

Another highly visible ceremony is "Galungan", which occurs every 210 days (it's timed to the Balinese calender). this Balinese festival celebrates a day of victory againts an the notorius Mayadenawa, an evil king that ruled in Bali in centuries ago. "Kuningan day", 10 days after Galungan, is the day to commemorate the spirit of the heroes who were killed during the battle againt Mayadenawa.

Welcome To Bali!!!

Bali is one of tourist destination where many foreign people and domestic people love to spend their vacation time in here. Bali offer a variety of natural beauty and all the world already known about that. In addition to it's natural state very beautiful, the Balinesse people are very friendly.
One of the most famous tourism destination in Bali is uta Beach. Where we can indulge our eyes in the morning with the sun rising and also sunset in the afternoon. The white sand with excellent surf adds the beautiness of Bali Island. Another tourism destination is Besakih Temple. Which located under the foot off agung Mount. This temple is the largest temple in Bali. That's why Bali is called "The Land of The God".
Also, if you want to enjoy the countryside, indulge your self in padangluwih which located in Tabanan. There are many more interesting places, That you should visit.
So.....Welcome to Bali adn enjoy your self with all the beauty of Bali.
"Bienvenido a Bali"

Diving Spots in Bali

Bali is a great place not just for holiday but also for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can dive in the vicinity of Sanur and in Nusa Dua, but the most exiting scuba-diving locations are in more remote places. Pulau Menjangan in the west is a favorite, as are Candidasa, Padangbai, Tulamben, and Amed in the east. Other spots are Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.

Menjangan Island
The most beautiful unspoiled coral reefs in Bali are off the coast of Pulau Menjangan ("Deer island"). Comprising hundreds of species of coral, these reefs extend 100 to 150m from the shore then drop 40 to 60 m down to ocean floor.Menjangan island and the nearby mainland are excellent places for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving.

Candidasa
Candi Dasa is a new but rapidly growing beach resort located on the black sand coast of Karangasem Regency. It is the perfect base for explorations of the area, as well as a quieter alternative to the southern tourist centers.

Padang Bai
Padang Bai is a major harbor for ships to Lombok and points east, as well as for smaller boats to Nusa Penida. Padangbai hides great coves and dive spots behind its hills. Just north of Padangbai is the Blue Lagoon, a treasure-trove of marine life. 2 islands (Tepekong and Mimpang) outside the bay, and Biaha a little to the north, offer some of the most breath-taking diving in Bali. However, due to conditions, these 3 sites need to be treated with care and respect. The currents coming from the Lombok Strait create unpredictable water movements that can result in a washing machine effect.

Tulamben
Tulamben is a quiet village on the northeast coast of Bali, facing the Lombok Strait. Divers occasionally meet mola-mola sunfish, hammerhead sharks and whale sharks in the waters off Tulamben. Its biodiversity and location make Tulamben one of the best dive sites in the world. Complete with its own wreck, the USS Liberty, which sank in 1963 when Gunung Agung erupted, the easy access to this wreck adds to the village's charm.

Amed
Amed reef, this small coral reef lies in depths ranging from 12-22M. In this area you will find many different kinds of sponges and gorgonians and the marinelife includes everything from gobies and shrimp as well as anemones with attendant clownfish to schools of barracuda and Blue Spotted Ray. Many different kinds of parrotfish, angelfish, surgeonfish and moray eel.

Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan, a small island between Bali and Nusa Penida in the Badung Strait, is the perfect location for a dive trip like no other. With seasonal migrations of the Mola Mola and all year round sightings of Manta rays, this is an exceptional location to see prolific marine life.

By dharma Putra

Bali : Never Ending Story…...

Bali is a island located in Indonesia. Bali is very Famous island and it always get a top ten of the best destination places for vacation in the world. People around the world call bali in many name such a The Last Paradise, island of God, Island of Onethousand Temple and many other call for this beautifull island.
.
The people in bali is very friendly and it very religius with their religion. Majority people in bali is Hindu. In bali there are many interesting place you should come like Kuta Beach, Sanur Beach, Dreamland, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, Ubud, Trunyan Village and many other place in around bali. If you looking a game that required adrenalin you should go to Telaga Waja in Karangasem and try rafting and many other game in there.

For me bali is more than that. Bali is a place that i'm proud to call home. The place that i spent my life with my family not only by now but if i can choose I love to stay in bali with the rest of my life.

By Minato Namikaze

Bali Beaches -The A To Z of Bali BeachesThis is the A-Z of Bali Beaches

This is the A-Z of Bali Beaches. No doubt there are more that have not have been covered in this article but the following beaches are the more common you will find on your way around Bali.

Bali's renowned beach towns blend high energy activities, nightclubs and markets with shopping, dining and relaxing. From the palm fringed beaches to the wild coastline and black sandy beaches in the west, the exciting surf, as well as the quiet coves in the north, Bali beaches are sure to give you are memorable experience. This is the A-Z of Bali Beaches. No doubt there are more that have not have been covered in this article but the following beaches are the more common you will find on your way around Bali.

Amed Northeast coast; just 30min North East from Amlapura, Amed offers an excellent site for training dives. It has a flat bottom lagoon for instruction and a coral reef only 5 minutes swim away. Amed Beach East Bali is everything you dreamed it would be; a rare and special paradise of outstanding exotic beauty, vibrant culture and friendly people. Here you can finally find peace and quiet, enjoy great food and take advantage of comfortable and inexpensive accommodation.

Bingin Surfing Beach: Bingin is located on the western side of the Bukit peninsula between Dreamland and Impossibles. It is ideal for advanced surfers and has a beautiful wave, a left hander, that works really well during the dry season (June-September) when off shore winds are the norm.

Candi Dasa Located 85 km north-east of the airport, Candidasa is a relaxing beach area close to cultural treasures like Pura Besakih ("Bali's Mother Temple") While the beach is not one of Bali's best, the tranquility of Candidasa has attracted a number of exclusive hotels like the Amankila and the Chedi. Candidasa is most often compared to Kuta as Kuta was some 20 years ago.

Canggu Surfing Beach: Hidden behind coconut palms, and backed by rice fields north of Seminyak, this is a good surfing beach.

Dreamland Surfing Beach: Dreamland Beach is located on the west coast of the Bukit Peninsula in South Bali and therefore only a short ride from Bali's major tourism spots. It has a break with longer left and a short right hander. Surfable at low to dead low tide and works well when there is an average swell above 3ft.When the swell is over 7ft, the waves tends to be unpredictable and close out. Dreamland Beach is quite beautiful and the azure blue water looks quite inviting for swimmers but be aware of the very strong currents. Beach Chair hire is available and many people are found sun baking on this pretty beach.

Jimbaran Jimbaran beach is about 10 minutes drive from the airport. Perfect white sand beach and romantic atmosphere with sunset view.

Kedongan Beach in the neighborhood also offers a mild ocean breeze with fish market and beach side sea food cafes.

Kuta This is the famous beach of Bali and the main tourist area. Located about 10 minutes drive from the airport. Great for surfing, waterskiing, windsurfing, banana boating, boogie boarding and parasailing. Other outstanding surfer beaches include Canggu and Well known for its spectacular sunset view.

Legian Named after the Balinese word for "sweet and pleasant," Legian Beach is a popular destination for sun worship and water sports.It is a continuation of Kuta Beach to the North.

Lovina With its unusual black sand, Lovina is an 8km lovely calm beach on the North coast. A good place to watch bottlenose dolphins, from an outrigger off the beach.

Medewi One of the quiet beaches on the West coast, near Negara, Medewi is a friendly beach for surfer beginners.

Nusa Dua Amidst white sand beaches lined with luxury hotels.Nusa Dua's palm-fringed beach has lifeguards on duty daily. On the North side, Tanjung Benoa offers plenty of water sport activities.

Nusa Lembongan This island is one of the most popular destinations for day trips from Bali. The journey takes between one and two hours. The pristine sandy beaches with calm bays are abundant with colorful sea life, so diving and snorkeling are very popular. For the less adventurous, glass-bottomed boats are available.

Padangbai The white sand beach of Padangbai on the East coast offers boats to Lombok. A good beach for snorkeling and diving.

Padung Padung Surfing Beach; often referred to as the 'Balinese pipeline' for its constant and perfect tubes that some say are reminiscent of Hawaii's famous Banzai pipeline. It's an intense left-hand break that wraps around the headland like an unfurled Oriental fan that produces a forever barreling surfing wave.Other outstanding surfer beaches include Canggu and of course the favourite Uluwatu also know for its long barrels.

Pasir Putih A hidden Treasure: Five kilometers north east of Candidasa on the east coast of Bali is Pasir Putih, an isolated, beautiful, white sand beach fringed with coconut palms. It is five hundred meters in length and is crescent shaped with green headlands at each end. Cold drinks and food are served by locals in the Warungs that are located on the beach. There is beach lounge and umbrella hire if you prefer comfort and shade on this crystal clear water paradise.

Sanur Sanur beach is part of Denpasar city, about 20 minutes drive from the airport.Sanur is famed for windsurfing. Most of the popular beaches offer boat hire and snorkeling trips.Sanur beach is quieter than Kuta with beachside hotels and beach markets. Boats are available to cross the island to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.

Tulamban This beach is famous for diving for the wreck boat, located East of Bali, just north from Amed or Amlapura. The highway between Amlapura and Singaraja passes through this small village. All tourist facilities are located on the road.

Tanjung Benoa On the southeastern coast of Bali, neighboring the popular Nusa Dua resort area is the small village of Tanjung Benoa. Still a fishing village, Tanjung Benoa over the years has developed into a major player in the tourism sector. The calm waters and the white sand beach have made Tanjung Benoa the prime water sport areas of Bali.

Tuban Between Kuta and the airport, Tuban Beach is lined with big hotels. Less frantic than Kuta, it is a wonderful place to simply grab a lounger, a good book and relax. It is safe to swim here, thanks to the hotel lifeguards.

Uluwatu Surfing Beach: This place used to be one of the exclusive playgrounds of surfers as access was along rough dirt tracks. The hike down to the beach also deterred many people. Tarred roads have now been built making it an easier access to the beach.

Bali is a volcanic island and as such has a selection of black sand beaches, most notably on the east coast, the north coast and the west coast. White sand beaches can be found on the Bukit Peninsula, Sanur, Nusa Lembongan and a few select places in East Bali, such as Padangbai and Candi Dasa.By no means have I covered all the beaches of Bali but the above are some of the more well known. If you have time, make an effort to go across to the Gili Islands where you will also find many beautifil beaches.

By Sofie De

Bali-Island of the God

Bali is one island of Indonesia which has about 13,000 islands in all. Bali is located just 2 kilometers away from the eastern tip of the Java Island and Lombok Island. The island is home of approximately 4 million people. It is approximately 144 kilometers from east to west and 80 kilometers north to south. There are varied landscapes of hills and mountains, rugged coastlines and sandy beaches, lush rice terraces and barren volcanic hillsides which provide a picturesque backdrop to the colorful and deeply spiritual culture of this 'Island of The Gods'.

The word "paradise" is used a lot in Bali. Eighty percent of international visitors to Indonesia visit Bali or visit Bali specially. The popularity is not without reason. The first Hindus arrived at Bali as early as 100 BC. So it is easy to understand why the island has such a long time to develop its own culture. But the current chapter for Bali's history begins in the seventies when intrepid hippies and surfers discovered Bali's beaches and waves. Tourism soon became the main resource of income. Despite the shocks of the terrorist attacks in 2002 and 2005, the magical island continues to draw crowds. Bali's culture remains as spectacular as ever.

There are an estimated 20,000 temples (pura) on the island, each of which holds festivals (odalan) at least twice a year and there are many other auspicious days throughout the year. There are always festivities going on. There are some large festivals that are celebrated island wide, but their dates are determined by two local calendars. The 210-day wuku or Pawukon calendar is completely out of sync with the Western calendar while the lunar saka (caka) calendar roughly follows the Western year. For more information about traveling, please have a look at http://www.affordablecruisestours.com

By Michael Drewell

Enjoy the Experience of Scuba Diving in the World's Best Scuba Diving Locations

Scuba diving is a sport pursued by people living in all parts of the world due to the many joys and pleasures which it has to offer. The thrill of being in unfamiliar surroundings, gazing at the most stunning coral reefs in crystal clear waters and getting close to beautiful sea creatures, are reasons enough to convince anyone to engage in scuba diving.

While one can always do diving in any body of water that is deep enough, but still there are certain famous scuba diving locations in many parts of the world, which truly take scuba diving to the next level. Scuba divers visit such locations because they have to offer unaltered marine life, clear light blue waters and great facilities which include experienced diving instructors.

Caribbean islands are one of the most prominent dive spots in the world, with countless areas where one finds nature still preserved in its purest form. These islands not only offer great marine life, but the visibility under water ranges from twenty feet to up to one hundred and twenty feet, allowing divers to capture as many stunning scenes as they can. From Bahamas to Aruba, Caribbean islands have ideal scuba diving resorts with great facilities close by.

The islands of Hawaii are another great destination for diving enthusiasts. Scuba diving in Hawaii offers the most complex and breathtaking coral formations, while the most attractive and colorful tropical fish reside in the waters encircling the islands. From turtles to sharks, all kinds of magnificent sea creatures are lurking in the stunning waters of Hawaii, adding to the thrill factor.

Along the coast of Florida, many stunning and world renowned dive sites locations attract tourists from many countries of the world. Florida, being one of the most popular fishing resorts in the US, offers warm and clear waters for divers, while large supply of tropical fish and sensational coral formations from a close bond between you and nature. Once you are in Florida, you will find the best equipment in nearby diving stores, while expert instructors will ensure that your deep-sea adventure does not take an ugly turn.

The coasts of Belize also offer a thrilling and exciting experience to scuba divers. Divers head towards the diving locations of Belize to have a closer look at the largest coral reef system in the northern hemisphere. The stunning coral formations and the underwater volcano bring thousands of scuba divers to the shores of Belize.

Countries like Australia, Philippines, and Fiji, Malaysia also boast of great dive locations. All of these scuba diving spots are enough to draw an aqua phobic person to indulge in scuba diving.

If you are looking to go scuba diving, try to consider scuba diving in the Philippines or Scuba diving in Cebu

By Joaquin Costa

Honolulu - The Heart Of Hawaii

Honolulu is the state capital of the state of Hawaii and is a census designated place CDP with the highest population of all the Hawaiian Islands. Honolulu is considered to be the whole area of the Hawaiian State, Oahu, but it is usually referred to as a city whose position is along Oahu's southern shore. Honolulu in the Hawaiian language means the sheltered bay or a place offering shelter. Honolulu was initially inhabited by the Polynesians and some evidences trace it back to the 12th century. It was when Kamehameha conquered the island of Oahu, that this place actually started developing. He had set up his court in Waikiki, a neighbourhood on the Oahu Island. His court was relocated in a due time and is now the downtown Honolulu. It became a commonplace for all the ships sailing between Asia and North America.

It is the only city which is incorporated in Hawaii State. All the other places fall under the jurisdiction of the local government and are under the City & County of Honolulu.

The Ala Moana Center of Honolulu stands as the largest shopping mall in the state of Hawaii. This mall attracts around 56 million tourists and is the busiest shopping center of this Island State. The Aloha Tower stands as a prime landmark for this port city. It is one of the most popular buildings and inaugurated in 1926. This is a lighthouse and is synonymous to the Statue Of Liberty in new York and welcomes millions of tourists round the year.

Ala Moana Beach Park and Magic Island alongside Hanauma bay are two of the most visited beaches here at Honolulu. The former stretches to an area of 100 acres in the center of Honolulu and Magic Island further stretch to around 30 acres. These are used as a beach, park and a picnic area by the visitors from all around the globe. This place is comprising of all the equipments to cater the needs of guests and locals.

Hanauma Bay is formed as a result of a collapsed volcano crater and boasts to be calm and a protected area. Ideally, this place is best suited to enjoy marine life and some exciting hiking as well. It is a one of the most crowded beaches as well and finding place to park your vehicle on the weekends is truly an ordeal in itself.

The Diamond Head is also one of the most visited places in Honolulu. This is a crater and is a declared United States State Monument. A part of this crater is out of the public reach as; it is used by the government of the United States as a platform for antennas. There are many luxurious hotels and resorts which make this place even more popular. One can reach the rim of the crater with a hike of around 1 mile. The whole of Waikiki and the panoramic view of the Pacific from the top of the crater make the whole hike really exciting and more than satisfying to say the least.

By Carson Tien

Kahala - A Must Visit Destination

Kahala, Honolulu features some of the most expensive real estate in Hawaii. Located in the neighborhood alongside Waialae and Kaimuki, it features many beachfront properties. Kahala has a very favorable climate and is known for its predominantly dry weather.

Like every Hawaiian destination, the district of Kahala is also home to several sandy beaches. These beaches are rarely crowded and offer a great site for swimming, deep sea fishing, beach volley ball and snorkeling. They are a great place to relax while listening to the sound of the waves. Taking a hiking trip would present you with the opportunity to come across some of the most magnificent and beautiful land and seascapes in Hawaii. Horseback riding offers the best option of exploring the countryside surrounding the Kahala neighborhood. The Diamond Head Crater located at Kahala district is another major tourist attraction.

Kahala is also home to one of the best resorts in Hawaii, The Kahala Resort and Hotel. Formerly Known as Kahala Mandarin Oriental, it is a favorite with locals, celebrities and international royalty offer world class facilities and all the modern amenities to make it a memorable stay for the guests. The Kahala Resort and Hotel has some world class restaurants including the Hoku's, Seaside grill and the Veranda.

The Waialae Country Club has one of the finest golf courses in Hawaii. This world class golf course is only open to the club members and offers a great golfing experience. Probably the longest hedge in Hawaii that runs along the Kealaolu Avenue protects the golf course from the exterior world. Kahala offers great shopping experience with the Kahala Mall offering several Hawaiian gift items together with other souvenirs.

Kahala promises a true Hawaiian vacation with several fun filled and exciting activities that is sure to be remembered for several years.

By Carson Tien

BALI TOURS- What You Can See & Do in Bali, Indonesia

Bali's natural attractions include miles of sandy beaches (many are well-known amongst surfers), picturesque rice terraces, towering active volcanoes over 3,000 meters (10,000 ft.) high, fast flowing rivers, deep ravines, pristine crater lakes, sacred caves, and lush tropical forests full of exotic wildlife.

The island's rich cultural heritage is visible everywhere - in over 20,000 temples and palaces, in many colorful festivals and ceremonies (including tooth filings and cremations), in drama, music, and dance.

You can experience Bali on many different excursions and guided tours by coach, private car or "Big Bike", by boat or by air plane: seeing Bali's beaches and rice terraces, the famous Besakih Temple on the slopes of holy Mount Agung, Lake Batur and it's active volcano, Ubud, Legian, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and the temples of Tanah Lot and Ulu Watu from a helicopter is a really special experience. For helicopter tours and private charters (3 to 6 passengers) please contact the Balivillas.com Service Center at 703-060 as soon as you arrive.

Most full day tours by car (about 8 to 10 hours, min 2 persons) cost about US$45 to US$50 per person, half day tours US$30 to US$35. These prices include a multi-lingual guide and transport in an air-conditioned private car, all entrance fees, but no meals. Which guide and driver you choose can make or break your day: be warned that those who offer very low prices tend to waste your time by showing you hardly any more than those shops which pay them a commission on your purchases.

For suggestions what to see and do during your stay on the island of Bali, please visit the following pages:

• The Most Popular Bali Tours
• Balinese Dances, Dramas
• Bali Museums & Art Exhibitions
• Popular Bali Activities
• Shopping in Bali
• Transport Rental

---

Private Vacation Villas in Bali. You can rent a private villa with two to seven bedrooms, tropical garden with private swimming pool, and trained house staff for a romantic honeymoon or a vacation with your family and friends.

Bali Hotel & Resort Bargain Finder. Find the GUARANTEED lowest rates for famous luxury resorts and budget hotels in Bali. Reserve on-line to save 70% and more on your hotel accommodation.

	Cruising the Spice Islands from Bali
	Cruises from Bali to visit fierce dragons which have survived from the Jurassic age in Komodo, and to experience ancient tribes and cultures in the Lesser Sunda Islands.

By Baliguide.com

Indonesia - Top 10 Shopping Destinations in Indonesia

Indonesia is a wonderful place to go shopping with the great finds and interesting items that are found here. There are many shopping destinations and here are the top 10 most favored and visited shopping places in this amazing country:

1. South Jakarta - along the JI Sultan Agung where almost everything is found. The latest in shopping industry is found here that lots of shoppers come here making the place really crowded and swarmed with many people. Amazing finds such as clothes, jewelries and others are sold here with very low prices.

2. Gianyar - found in Bali, is a place to find lots of handcrafted jewelries and really decorative accessories. Everyone is welcome to explore great finds and excellent negotiable prices.

3. Kuta - the streets of Kuta Indonesia has several shops and stalls where one can find accessories and clothing items that are with really cheap and affordable prices. There are also funny and interesting stuffs you can find here that can be a souvenir for your loved ones back home.

4. Star Disc Music center - where the latest in the music industry are found and also all kinds of popular music from both local and foreign musicians. There are extensive ranges of choices that can be found here that will truly amaze every music lover.

5. Bali - a great shopping destination in Indonesia where you can find lots and lots of amazing stuffs. It is advisable for shoppers to bring huge shopping bags to carry your shopped items because there are definitely lots of finds here.

6. Manga Dua - a place in Indonesia where the vast complex buildings are found that are usually shopping malls and department stores. These are one of the best places to shop in the whole Indonesia plus you get to be offered the lowest prices in town.

7. Malioboro - where the best finds of silvers and metal bird cages are found.

8. Legian - also an ideal place to shop for lots of goods and accessories and is full of vendors so you have lots of choices.

9. Grand Indonesia - is a very massive building that is very spacious for one to shop. There are so many stalls inside the building that offers pretty good finds.

10. Mall of Indonesia - where the famous brand named items are found. This is where most of the Indonesians shop to make sure to buy quality items and products.

By Pinky Mcbanon

Indonesia - Top 10 Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia

Indonesia is a country with many things to do.

Here the ten things to do in Indonesia that everyone will surely enjoy.

1. Pamper yourself - massage anyone? Here in Indonesia, you can indulge with the great massage treats that are truly relaxing and soothing for your tired bodies. There are several massage centers here that offers very relaxing services for everyone. There are specific spas that are exclusive for tourists so one will definitely have a really great time.

2. Visit the Indonesian temples - when planning a vacation trip to Bali, include to your schedule to visit some of the well known shrines and temples of the place. A temple or two would complete your whole Bali trip.

3. Go Shopping - of course, one's trip to any place in the world will never be complete without the shopping spree. There are hundreds of shops in Bali that are ideal shopping destinations with amazing finds and affordable prices.

4. Check out the traditional dances - locally known as the "Kecak". Where the ck-ck sound is very fun to hear with accompanying native dances in some Bali public places.

5. See the Cheeky monkeys - these monkeys are pretty famous in Bali. Hundreds of these long tailed monkeys are seen in some parts of Bali that is a center of attraction here. Visitors can also feed these monkeys with bananas that are sold outside the gates from where the monkeys are kept.

6. Watch the beautiful Sunset - the days are quiet very hot in Bali and the perfect time for everyone to stroll outside is when the sun is setting. The beautiful sunset of Bali is very spectacular! Visitors always find time to stop and stare at the setting sun during sunset hours.

7. Run in the rain - Bali always have rains, and it is a great fun experience to dance along the rain. It is more fun when you have your friends with you to join you lose yourself along the dropping waters.

8. Eat - indulge with the delicious Indonesian cuisines that are very mouth-watering and delectable meals that are cooked by the Indonesians.

9. Watch the dolphins - in Lovina found in the north of Bali is where the lovely dolphins are found. Lots of tourists come to for them to get a chance of holding the dolphins closely and play with them in the waters.

10. Book your next Bali trip - once you visit this country, you'll definitely be back for more so it is ideal for everyone to book their next Bali trip right after your first trip.

By Pinky Mcbanon