Welcome to the beautiful Bali
THE ISLAND OF THE GODS
Bali is a province of Indonesia and is approximately 153km wide and 112km high with a total land area of approximately 5,780 square km (2,231 square miles).
The province includes the island of Bali and a few smaller neighboring islands, such Nusa Penida , Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.
There is no other place like Bali in this world. A magical blend of culture, people, nature, activities, weather, culinary delights, nightlife, and beautiful accommodation. Bali is rated as one of the best travel destinations in the world by countless websites, review portals, and travel magazines each year – for very good reasons. Whatever your age, background, budget or interest, there is something great for everyone to explore and discover.
Varied landscape of hills and mountains, rugged coastlines and sandy beaches, lush rice terraces and barren volcanic hillsides all providing a picturesque backdrop to its colorful, deeply spiritual and unique culture, stakes a serious claim to be paradise on earth.
World-class surfing and diving, a large number of cultural, historical and palaces set against stunning natural backdrops are some of its top attractions which Bali as the world’s top destination.
A SHOPPERS PARADISE
Make sure there’s plenty of room in your suitcase, Bali is a shopper’s dream come true! Who could resist spending a day (or two) wind through the myriad of Balinese markets and shopping centers, hunting untold treasures, all without spending a fortune?
Whether you’re looking for value-for-money clothing, DVDs, souvenirs or even furniture, shopping in Bali is divided into two distinct categories: markets and shopping centers. Savvy shoppers need to know the difference between the two to make the most of their time on this exciting island.
Bali Markets
Bali’s street markets and vendors open early (around 8 AM), and generally remain open until sometime after 10 PM if there are crowds to keep business flowing.
What Can You Find in the Markets?
If it’s hidden treasures and rare finds you’re looking for, then Balinese markets are the place to be. Amongst discount t-shirts and wooden carvings, shoppers never quite know what they’re going to find, which just adds excitement to the shopping adventure!
It’s customary for tourists to bargain with vendors in the markets. For first-time hagglers, it’s a good benchmark to start at half the asking price and go up from there based on what you’re comfortable to pay. It’s expected that you take part in this ‘game’, and the Balinese admire good manners and a sense of humor when bargaining for a deal. Losing your temper in the bargaining process is probably going to see you walking away empty handed.
Make sure you bring cash rather than credit cards and take your time to look around for the best deals rather than going for whatever catches your eye first.
Malls and Department Stores
Unlike the markets, shops in resorts and malls generally open at around 10 AM and stay open quite late.
What Can You Find in Shopping Centers?
Shopping malls are the place to find everything and more, without the hard bargaining. Clothing, furniture, footwear, artwork and everything in between – they also include lots of places to sit down for food and drink. Many department stores are also air-conditioned, so they’re a good place to go to get out of that tropical Balinese heat.
It’s also important to note that while many stores do accept credit cards, it’s generally a good idea to keep cash on you to use when you can.