Bali

Bali, one of over 17.000 islands in Indonesia, is famous for its scenic beauty, dynamic culture, and friendly people. Located just south of the equator, tropical Bali traditionally has a hot, wet season (November – March) and a cool, dry one (May – September). Towering volcanoes, some still active, contain large lakes which provide water for irrigating thousands of terraced rice fields, enabling up to three harvests per year. Over the centuries the Balinese culture has proven itself very resilient, managing to blend influences from Asia and West with their own traditions. Buddhism arrived from India during the early centuries of the first millennium followed later by Hinduism and trade contacts with China. Relations with Java began in the 11th century but full Javanese control of Bali did not come until 1334 and lasted only just over 100 years. Bali’s tourism has brought spectacular economic growth, a thriving hotel industry, and major improvements to transportation and communication facilities. The international fame of Bali’s culture has also brought a heightened sense of identity among the Balinese. Many villages produce arts and crafts, present music and dance performances, and hold elaborate religious ceremonies. As always, the Balinese take everything in their stride, absorbing and adapting from different sources. They are a flexible people, welcoming new ideas but at the same time retaining a unique life-style guided by their religious, social and cultural …