The jewel of Indonesia's 17,000 islands, Bali lies between Java and Lombok, just a few hours' plane ride from Australian cities. Bali's shimmering beaches and glittering nightlife make it a magnet for young Australians eager to party. Bali and Australia have a close relationship that goes back decades. This relationship was sorely tested by the nightclub bombings in 2002. Following a steep dip in the number of Australians taking cheap flights to Bali, tourist levels are above where they were in 2001. Now, however, Australians have a new stop to make on their travels, the bombing memorial on the site of Paddy's Pub on Legian Street.
Away from the nonstop partying, Bali is a haven for those seeking spiritual refreshment. This is the Island of the Gods after all. The Balinese look away from the beaches to the Gunung Agung volcano and the mountain ranges that dominate the island's landscape, where the gods are said to live, to feed their souls.
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Peak Season:
Most visitors take cheap flights to Bali during the dry season (June through September). Of the dry season months, July and August are the most popular. This is when schools are out and tour groups take trips around the island. The weather is hot but not as humid as during the wet season.
Off Season:
The wet season (October to March) is generally considered the low season, but travellers who don't mind the humidity can benefit from lower fares and fewer crowds. It doesn't rain steadily throughout these months, usually the rains start to fall in December and January.
Travellers arriving on cheap flights to Bali will discover that there are several ways of getting around the island. Bemos (small vans with a set routine) and buses are cheap if on the slow side. Taxis - chartered or metered - are convenient and inexpensive compared to other countries. Renting a car, motorbike or bicycle offers most independence. The most traditional mode of transport is a dokar (a horse and cart).
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Colin McPhee McPhee, a Canadian-born musician, was entranced by the Balinese gamelan music, and spent about a decade on Bali in the 1930s. McPhee's work did much to popularise gamelan music in the West.
Dr AAM Djelantik The autobiography of a prince who became a medical doctor.
Elizabeth Gilbert In an attempt to lift herself from the aftermath of divorce and depression, Gilbert spends a year travelling in Italy, India and Indonesia.
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