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Paradise in BaliJun 26, 2005
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Arriving at the airport in Bali, Indonesia
Our room at the Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua
You can swim right into our room here
June 25-26th
Bali, Indonesia
Dave
When most people here the word Bali, they think of an unspoiled tropical paradise and having arrived yesterday we can certainly understand why. We have seen some incredible places along the way on this trip, but every beach resort in Asia, and every five star hotel aspires to create what they have here in Bali.
The beaches are phenomenal with golden sand, and clear waves, breaking either on the beach or over the reefs that fringe the island. This makes for some of the world's best surfing, as well as some incredible diving and snorkeling. Having surf beaches really sets Bali apart, as this is the only place with good surfing in South East Asia.
Another thing that sets Bali apart is the amazing hotels, landscaping and spas. There has got to be more spas per capita here than any other place on the planet offering waterfalls, pools, ocean vistas and any spa treatment imaginable.
Bali's image and tourist industry both suffered considerably when Al Queda linked terrorist groups tragically bombed two night clubs filled with international tourists here in 2003. Ever since then most Western governments have advised tourists not to come here, which is an incredibly unfair assessment. While the rest of Indonesia has experienced other problems and incidents of terrorism in recent months, Bali has not had any additional security problems since. Security here is tight, and the local population is incredibly friendly and welcoming to tourists. Tourism here is also still very strong, with tens of thousands of Westerners here now, particularly Australians (this is really one of the top tourist destinations for Australians still, like their own Hawaii).
Our first few nights here have been staying at the Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua hotel, which arguably has to be one of the best hotels in the world, and certainly one of the best settings. Balinese culture is truly spectacular with interesting rituals, complex architecture and picturesque landscapes. When we arrived at the hotel our arrival was announced by two loud rings on a traditional Balinese gong.
We are staying in a Laguna Access Junior Suite, where we can swim straight into the pool from our balcony, and also have access to 24hr butler service. The beach, spa and pool are all amazing and we are really enjoying it.
Last night we went to see a great live band in Kuta Beach, toured the shops and went to an MTV sponsored party at the Hard Rock Hotel. The hotel looked like heaps of fun with a huge pool, an in house radio station and a great band playing at a stage set up over top of the check in desk.
Dave
