WHAT TO DO

Bali has a rich history, fascinating culture, varied topography and many historical points of interest including Balinese temples and religious buildings. Not to mention shopping for local arts and crafts, gorgeous beaches and incredible diving – there are many things to do when visiting – or you can choose to enjoy the picture-perfect scenery and drink in the lush tropical lifestyle Bali offers. Check out baliguide.com and balitourismguide.com.

Here are some popular things to do in Bali:

Beaches

• Nusa Dua Beach is a favorite tourist beach that has all the facilities on-site, with hotels, sporting facilities, shopping and more a short walk away.
• Suluban Beach is a well-known surfer's paradise, with amazing waves, beautiful beach and a picturesque drive down a winding road.
• Sanur Beach with its calm, relaxing beach area is famous for its spectacular panoramic view of the South Bali mountain range in the background.
• Delod Brawah Beach is a black-sand beach next to a large rice fields often visited by flocks of herons and storks. The beach is calm and inviting for swimmers.

Lakes/Volcanoes

• Mt. Agung is the tallest peak in Bali (10,000+ feet high) and is still an active volcano that periodically vents steam and smoke. On the edge of this mountain you'll find the island's biggest Hindu temple, Besakih.
• Mt. Batur is Bali's most active volcano and is where you'll find Lake Batur where visitors can see the colorful sulfur in the waters. On the edge of this mountain lies Trunyan Village, one of the original villages of the native Balinese, or "Bali Aga."
• Lake Buyan is surrounded by lush green vegetation and is a popular place to rent a boat and explore the lake or go fishing. Here you might catch a glimpse of the tame monkeys that live around the lake.

Adventures Bali offers many outdoor activities including the Bali Zoo Park, a Butterfly Park, a Bird and Reptile Park, the Bali Safari & Marine Park, the Botanical Garden Bedugul, the Indonesia Jaya Reptile Park, several river rafting tour companies, elephant tracking tours, horseback riding, bungee jumping, balloon rides and more!

Museums There are more than 26 museums in Bali, and each one is an amazing experience in the fascinating Balinese culture. Some feature historical exhibits, and others include cultural and artistic themes.

Villages There are numerous traditional villages located throughout Bali, many are nearby the village temples or palaces and some offer additional points of interest including markets, food vendors, art and craft vendors, gift shops, public transportation and more. Some villages, including Batubulan Village, offer ceremonial Balinese dances and performances. Mas Village is home to many local sculptors, whose works of art are created in stone, wood and porcelain, and are featured in the many art galleries throughout the village. Gold and silver jewelry is offered in Celuk Village, where original pieces of jewelry artwork can be purchased in the many galleries.

Temples Balinese culture is strongly tied with its religion and beliefs and the more than 30 temples located throughout Bali offer a glimpse into the fascinating life of the Balinese people. Temples can be small, reserved structures on up to large sprawling buildings, some perched on rocky hillsides. Temples are usually associated with a religious meaning and some also house museums and shrines. Some temples also have ceremonial dances with costumed performers acting out various religious themes.

HOW TO GET AROUND Because Bali is relatively small, getting around is fairly easy. However, a word of caution -- be careful if you choose to drive yourself. First, you'll need an international driver's license. Second, it has been noted on various websites that drivers in Bali can make even the most laid-back individual vow to never drive again. Because of this, and the fact that many roads are in the process of being repaired (over and over) and many are in need of repair, driving can be a little nerve-wracking.

Generally, it's recommended to hire a driver along with a car while there, or take the Bemo -- a local transportation van that follws a pre-set route.

Other ways to get around include the public bus, taxis, motorbikes and bicycles. The traditional Dokar, a horse and cart, is not typical anymore on the crowded city street. But one can be hired if desired, for the novelty.