Design Fiesta

Membuat Perangko

2009-01-20T06:59:00.001-08:00

Kali ini kita akan belajar bagaimana cara kerja membuat desain perangko :

1. File > New
2. Pilih Rectangle Tools ( f6 ). Kemudian buatlah kotak (boleh bujur sangkar atau persegi panjang), sebagai shape dasar dari perangko
3. Pilih Ellipse Tools ( f7 ). Kemudian buatlah lingkaran sempurna kecil. Tekan ‘Ctrl’ selama membuat lingkaran, supaya mendapatkan lingkaran yang sempurna
4. Letakkan lingkaran tadi dengan titik tengah tepat di salah satu sudut dari kotak.
5. Copy lingkaran tadi sebanyak 3 kali (sehingga semua berjumlah 4 lingkaran). Dan letakkan masing2 lingkaran di sudut2 yang lain. sehingga tampak seperti gambar

6. Pilih ‘Interactive Blend tools’. Klik salah satu lingkaran, dengan interactive blend tools, kemudian drag menuju lingkaran yang lain, sehingga menjadi seperti gambar. Kemudian atur number of step nya sesuai kebutuhan (jangan terlalu sedikit, jangan terlalu rapat)

7. Lakukan langkah No.6 untuk lingkaran lainnya sehingga menjadi seperti gambar

8. Kemudian klik kanan lingkaran tadi, kemudian pilih ‘break blend group appart’ atau ‘break compound objects of 8 element a part’ (pada intinya break a part)
9. Klik menu ‘Arrange > shapping > Shapping. maka akan muncul panel shapping (biasanya di sisi sebelah kanan)
10. Pilih semua lingkaran. kemudian di combo box panel shapping pilih ‘trim’. hilangkan check box pada option ’source object(s)’ dan ‘target object(s)’.
11. Klik tombol trim, lalu klik kotak (shape dasar dari perangko) yang telah kita buat sebelumnya. maka kita akan mendapatkan hasil seperti ini.

12. Import gambar yang ingin kita jadikan sebagai gambar background ke working area kita
13. Sesuaikan ukuran gambar background sesuai kebutuhan kita (optional)
14. klik / pilih gambar background. kemudian klik menu ‘effects > power clip > place inside container’ pada saat cursor berubah menjadi panah hitam besar, klik shape dasar perangko. maka gambar akan otomatis masuk ke dalam shape dasar perangko.

15. Tambahkan tulisan, sesuai selera. menggunakan text tool ( f8 ). supaya terlihat seperti perangko asli
16. Bisa juga ditambahkan beberapa hiasan supaya lebih menarik

Dan inilah Hasilnya :

Corel Tricks :
- untuk proses pengcopy-an yang lebih cepat. klik dan drag obyek yang ingin di copy. Kemudian klik tombol kanan mouse, baru lepas tombol kiri. maka obyek akan otomatis tercopy.
- Untuk memindahkan obyek secara tepat horizontal / vertical. tekan tombol ctrl selama memindahkan / dragging obyek

Teks Terbakar – Fire Burning Text

2009-01-20T02:11:00.001-08:00

Kali ini kita akan BELAJAR membuat teks yang terbakar. Langsung ae.. ikuti langkah-langkahnya berikut ini

1 Buat document baru 800 x 600 Pixel
2. Berikan warna Background hitam, kemudian buat teks hingga seperti gambar

3. Kemudian restireze teks dengan cara klik kanan pada layer teks dan pilih restireze, lihat gambar:

4. Kemudian berikan efek wind (Klik Menu Filter > Stylis > Wind ),
atur sesuai gambar: kemudian ulangi lagi efek wind ato bisa langsung tekan Ctrl + F 2x ( untuk mengulangi efek yang terakhir digunakan )

5. Berikan efek wind lagi ( ulangi langkah no 4 ) bedanya pada pengaturan direction (from the right dan from the lift).

Hasilnya kira-kira seperti ini:

6. Ok sekarang kita putar 90 cw ( klik edit > transfrom > rotate 90 derajat cw ) seperti ini:

7. Nah sekarang kita kasih lagi efek wind (ulangi langkah 4 dan 5 ). Hasilnya:

8. kita rotate kembali agar kembali kesemula yaitu (Klik Edit > Transfrom > Rotate 90 derajat Ccw )

9. Kini tinggal ngasih deh apinya, siapkan korek ya hehe…
sebelumnya kita ubah mode warna ke Grayscale ( klik image > mode > grayscale ), lalu kita ubah lagi ke indexed color ( klik image > mode > indexed color ),

10. Terakhir kita sulut deh apinya dengan color table ( Klik Image > Mode > Color Table ), dan atur sesuai dengan gambar:

Hasilnya Akhirnya:

Akhirnya Gw nge-blog juga

2009-01-16T13:24:00.000-08:00

Oke itu judul postingan gw sekaligus kata pertama yang gw ucapin di blog gw (dalam bahasa Indonesia)*gila..gw kayak Obama yang lagi berkunjung ke Menteng ajah!*

Sekian lama ngenet gw cuman browsing-browsing aja, nglihatin blog-blog. Ada yang khusus buat review, ada yang buat kaya diary, yang berisi curhat, ada yang jualan, ada yang ngebahas computer dan internet, ada yang khusus membahas cari duit (gampang) lewat internet*emang gampang?? Puuhhhhh…ampe ngesot-ngesot juga usahanya*

Sebenernya pengin sih dari dulu bikin blog, cuman gw bingung, format apa gitu yang cocok kalo gw nge-blog. Sebagai model klas dunia (cuihh..cuihh huekkss!!) gw harus eksis dengan jiwa kenarsis-an gw. Tapi apa hendak dikata, gw gak pinter computer, kemampuan menulis gw juga pas-pas an, apalagi mau ngebahas cari duit lewat internet…hushhhaa boro-boro, ngerti caranya juga engga…

Tapi akhirnya “Anything I do I do it for you” (iya gw tahu lagunya kagak nyambung!!) akhirnya gw buat aja blog ini, gak tahu ini blog model apa gitu. Pokoknya apa yang ada di kepala gw, gw tulis aja disini. Uneg-uneg gw tentang kerjaan gw, tentang jiwa narsis gw, tentang keluarga gw, dan akhirnya juga tergoda…buat cari duit!!

Jadi kalo ada postingan yang rada-rada berbau komersiil yah dimaklumin aja ya…

BALI - KUTA & LEGIAN PRACTICALITIES

2009-01-09T01:28:00.000-08:00

BALI - KUTA & LEGIAN PRACTICALITIES
INCLUDES SEMINYAK & PETITENGET

The white sands of Kuta are still arguably the best beachfront on Bali. The beach is much cleaner than just a few years ago, although the vendors remain annoying. Kuta is not the fishing village it once was: it is now a booming Pacific resort and its streets are clogged with tourists and traffic during peak seasons. Legian is a bit quieter, less crowded, and more suitable for longer stays, although in many ways it has become an extension of Kuta. Further north, Seminyak, Petitenget and Canggu offer more tranquility.
Prices in US dollars. AC = Air conditioning. Telephone code is 0361.

ORIENTATION
BALI TOURIST INFORMATION
Bali - Kuta and Tuban
Kuta proper is the area delineated by JI. Legian, JI. Pantai Kuta, JI. Melasti, the beach front drive and the lanes in between, especially Gang Poppies I and 11. JI. Legian is the commercial hub of Kuta and the stage of many of its restaurants and nightlife. Most of Kuta's big beachfront hotels are in southern Kuta, or Tuban, including the LTI Patra Jasa Bali, Ramada Bintang Bali, Holiday Inn Balihai, Kartika Plaza, Sol Elite Paradiso, and Bali Dynasty.
Bali - Legian and Seminyak
Legian and Seminyak are northern extensions of Kuta proper along JI. Legian to JI. Basangkasa. Somewhat quieter with cottage-style Accommodations , this is where many of the ex-pat designers and long-stay tourists live. The biggest hotels are the Bali Imperial, Jayakarta, and the Bali Padma. There are three ways to reach Legian and Seminyak: through Kuta and JI ' Melasti, then north; from JI. Imam Bonjol, turn west on to A Patih Jelantik at the Pertamina gas station; or from the north via JI. Kerobokan.
Bali - Petitenget and North
Petitenget, Berawa, Canggu, and Seseh are new and quieter continuations of Kuta's beach, easier to reach through Abian Timbul or Denpasar and Kerobokan than through Kuta, as there are no bemos north from Legian. Several large hotels are located in this area: the Oberoi Bali, the Intan Bali Village and The Legian in Petitenget and the Dewata Beach and Bali Sani Suites in Berawa.
Kuta Beach also extends to the south, beyond the airport to Jimbaran.
For assistance with tours and tickets, and information on events, contact the tourist information offices at JI. Bakungsari, Kuta Phone 751660 ext. 145, Century Plaza Building, JI. Benesari No. 7, Ground Floor, Legian, Phone 754090, and the Lifeguard Station (Bala Penyelamat Wisata Tirta), JI. Pantai Kuta, Phone755660. A new Tourism Office is on JI. Raya Kuta.

How to get to Kuta
The airport taxi counter is outside customs, near "left luggage". The set fare is Rp20,000 to Kuta, Rp22,500 to Legian, Rp25,000 to Seminyak, and Rp25,000 to Petitenget. Buy a ticket from the counter for the sedan taxis. Metered taxis operate outside the airport. Make sure they start the argometer before you take off.
If you want to take a bemo, you have to walk out to the main road as far as the impressive white charioteer statue on the corner (about 1.5 km). From there you can flag down a blue bemo van-it will take you down to "bemo corner" in Kuta for Rp. l,000.
In Kuta itself, the usual bemo fare-to JI. Kartika Plaza and Tuban to the south or to A Melasti to the north-is only Rp1000-Rp1,500, although the driver may ask for more. There are no bemos beyond Legian, so to get further north you'll have to charter: bargain hard.
There are rent-a-car and bike agencies on almost every corner in Kuta and "transport?" is an extremely common touts' call. Bargain the price down and check the condition of the vehicle. Suzuki Jimnys are fun for around $10/day. Kijang jeeps go for $15/day. Try Bali Bahagia Rent Car, JI. Raya Kuta 72X,
Toyota Rent Car, JI. Raya Airport 99X, Tuban. Motorbikes rent for around $4/day.
The shuttle bus to the Kuta Central Parking area on JI. Kuta Raya is Rp2000. It makes a circuit through Kuta, where curb-side parking is no longer allowed, so you must park at the central lot and shuttle in.
To avoid the hassle of looking for bemos or renting a vehicle, use the shuttle buses which go to Ubud at 8.30, 10, and 11.30 am, 1, 2.30 and 4 pm and to Candidasa / Padangbai, Kintamani and Lovina at 9.30 am. Contact CV Ganda Sari Transport, JI. Legian, or Perama, JI. Legian.
For renting mountain bikes, motor bikes, or push bikes, go to Chi Chat Rent Car on JI. Pura Bagus Taruna (JI. Rum Jungle) or to Warung Bamboo, on JI. Arjuna (JI. Double Six). The price is $1/day or less for longer periods. Always check the bike before riding away.

Kuta Accommodations
The Kuta area has thousands of rooms, ranging from tiny $3/night concrete huts in a Balinese family compound to the super-luxurious Imperial Villa at the 5-star Bali Imperial Hotel which has a private swimming pool, Jacuzzi and 2 bedrooms for $2,000/night.
The choice of where to base yourself is relatively easy: if you want action, stay in Kuta; if you want tranquility, try Seminyak; if you want a mix, stay in Legian, and if you want top-end luxury, head for Tuban in the south or Petitenget in the north. Each area has advantages and disadvantages. The main hassle north of Legian is a lack of public transport.

The best way to find a room that suits you is to shop around. If you're in a hurry, you can book through the PHRI Hotel Association at the airport. The recommendations below are designed to give some points of reference. Hotels are often fully booked during the peak season (Christmas/New Year and July/August), so make a reservation for a day or two and took around if the hotel is not to your liking. In the low season most hotels offer discounts of up to 40 %.
For all larger hotels, reservations are a must and surcharges are levied during peak season. In some hotels, two children under 12 sharing their parents' room are allowed free of charge.

WHEN TO TRAVEL

2009-01-09T01:23:00.000-08:00

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, April to September. Humidity is down and nights can be cool. Australians visit in droves at Christmas and during May-August school holidays. Europeans arrive in July and August. Indonesians come at Christmas/New Years and during the June-July school break. Book well in advance for cheap flights and Accommodations during these periods.
FOREIGN CONSULATES IN BALI
The Australian consul in Denpasar also represents citizens of Canada, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Japan also has full consular services here. All others are consular agents or honorary consuls.
• Australia JL. Prof. Moch. Yamin 51, Renon, Denpasar, Phone 235092, 235093, fax: 231990.
• British (Honorary) JI. Merta Sari 2, Sanur Phone 270601, fax: 270572.
• Czech Republic (Honorary) JI. Pengembak 17, Sanur Phone 286465, fax: 286408.
• France Jl. Raya Sesetan 461, Phone 287383, fax: 287383.
• Germany (Honorary) Jl. Pantai Karang 17, Sanur, Phone 288535, fax: 288626.
• Italy (Honorary) J1. Bypass Jimbaran, Phone 701005. Japan JI. Raya Puputan Renon 170, Denpasar, Phone 227628, fax: 231308.
• Mexico Astina Tour, Jl. Moh. Yamin 1A, PO Box 150, Denpasar, Phone 223552, fax: 244568.
• Netherlands KCB Tours, JI. Raya Imam Bonjol 599, Phone 751517, fax: 752777.
• Norway & Denmark JI. Jaya Giri Vill/10, Denpasar, Phone 235098, fax: 234834
• Sweden & Finland Segara Village Hotel, JI. Segara, Sanur, Phone 288407, fax: 287242.
• Switzerland Swiss Restaurant, JI. Pura Bagus Teruna (JI. Rum Jungle), Legian, Phone 751735, fax: 754457.
• United States of America , Jl. Hayam Wuruk 188, Phone 233605, fax: 222426.
Passport Loss
If you lose your passport, it will be difficult to get new documents to leave the country unless you have the proper official forms from the police. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, visa and driver's license separate from the originals. You can then prove your identity to your consul in Bali in case of theft or loss.
When theft occurs, report to your consulate. Verification of your identity and citizenship takes two or three weeks and involves going to the immigration office in Denpasar.
WHAT TO BRING ALONG
When packing, keep in mind that you will be in the tropics, but that it can get cold in the mountains. Generally, you will want to dress light and wear natural fibers that absorb perspiration. A medium-weight sweater or wind breaker is also a must as is a sturdy pair of shoes. Suits and ties are almost never worn.
Don't bring too much, as you will be tempted by the great variety of inexpensive clothes available here. Most tourists find a cotton batik shirt more comfortable than what they brought along. If you visit a government office, men should wear long trousers, shoes and a shirt with collar. Women should wear a neat dress, covering knees and shoulders, and shoes.
For those wanting to travel light, a sarong purchased upon arrival in Indonesia ($5-10) is one of the most versatile items you could hope for. ft serves as a wrap to get to the bath, a beach towel, a waist sash which is required dress for Balinese temples, pajamas, bed sheet, fast drying towel, etc.
Indonesians are renowned for their ability to sleep anytime, anywhere; so they are not likely to understand your desire for peace and quiet
at night. Sponge rubber earplugs are available from pharmacies in the West or from the in-flight airline toiletry kit. Many consider them the most important 4 grams they carry.
Tiny padlocks for use on luggage zippers are a handy deterrent to pilfering hands. Some come with combination locks. Flashlights may come in handy, although these can be easily purchased locally.
Bring along some pro-packaged alcohol tow elettes (swabs). These are handy for disinfecting your hands before eating, or after a trip to the kamar kecil (lavatory). Also available at local supermarkets.
In the majority of Indonesian department stores and supermarkets you can find Western toiletries. Contact lens supplies for hard and soft lenses are available in major cities. For gas permeable lens wearers it is still necessary to come well-stocked.
Dental floss, tampons, and sanitary napkins are available in Western style grocery stores like Gelael and Hero that are fast becoming common in Indonesian cities. Kondom (condoms) are available at all apotik (pharmacies). Bring sunscreen and Insect repellent, although these are also available locally.
Passport photos may come in handy for applications/permits (for parks) or even as gifts. On your travels you will meet people who are kind and helpful, yet you may feel too embarrassed to give money. In this kind of situation a small gift is appropriate. Chocolates, biscuits, pens, stationery from your hotel, even your T-shirt with foreign designs are appreciated.
PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI
While the spiritual heart of Bali lies in the mountains, the tourist heart of the island lies in the south where, the major tourist enclaves of Kuta, Sanur and Nusa Dua are located. This is the focus or at least starting point for almost all visitors, especially those arriving by air.
Those lodging in any of the three above-mentioned areas, find it easy to make day trips to most of the popular tourist destinations, including Gunung Agung and Besakih temple, Kintamani, Singaraja and Lovina, Candidasa, etc. It is also easy to make overnight trips to these destinations or plan a circular route, starting in the south, visiting point of interest over several days and returning to the south for shopping and ultimate air departure.
The ports of Benoa, Batubulan and Padangbai are launching points for boat journeys to islands east of Bali.
Abundant transportation, numerous tour desks and travel agencies offer overwhelming information and options. It's best to read first, ask questions and then decide what you want to see. Decide whether to drive yourself by car or motorcycle, hire a driver, guide or take an organized tour to maximize your experience of Bali.

Bali Island

2009-01-09T01:20:00.000-08:00

MALAY Archipelago lies directly on the volcanic belt of the world. Like the backbone of some restless, formidable antediluvian monster, more than three hundred volcanoes rise from The sea in a great chain of islands - perhaps all that remains of A continent broken up in prehistoric cataclysms - forming a continuous land bridge that links Asia with Australia. Because of its peculiar and fantastic nature, its complex variety of peoples, and its fabulous richness, the archipelago is one of the most fascinating regions of the earth. It includes famous islands like Java, Borneo, Sumatra, New Guinea, the Philippines, and the hysterical. Island-volcano of Krakatao. Such freaks of nature as the giant " dragon " lizards of Komodo, the coloured lakes of Flores, the orangutans, the rafflesia (a flower over three feet in diameter), and the birds of paradise, are to be found nowhere else, The population of the islands ranges from such forms of primitive humanity as the Negritos, the Papuans, the Kubus, who seem only a few steps away in the evolutionary scale from the orangutan, to the super civilized Hindu-Javanese, who over six hundred years ago built monuments like Borobudur and Prambanan, jewels of Eastern art.

Through the centuries, civilization upon civilization from all directions has settled on the islands over the ancient megalithic cultures of the aborigines, until each island has developed an individual character, with a colorful culture, according to whether Chinese, Hindu, Malay, Polynesian, Mohammedan, or European influence has prevailed. Despite the mental isolation these differences have created, even the natives believe that the islands once formed a unified land. Raffles, in his History of lava, mentions a Javanese legend that says, " the continent was split into nine parts, but when three thousand rainy seasons will have elapsed, the Eastern Islands shall again be reunited and the power of the white man shall end."
One of the smallest, but perhaps the most extraordinary, of the islands, is the recently famous Bali - a cluster of high volcanoes, their craters studded with serene lakes set in dark forests filled with screaming monkeys. The long green slopes of the volcanoes, deeply furrowed by ravines washed out by rushing rivers full of rapids and waterfalls, drop steadily to the sea without forming lowlands. just eight degrees south of the Equator, Bali has over two thousand square miles of extravagantly fertile lands, most of which are beautifully cultivated. Only a narrow strait, hardly two miles across, separates Bali from Java; here again the idea that the two islands were once joined and then separated is sustained by the legend of the great Javanese king who was obliged to banish his good-for-nothing son to Bali, then united to Java by a very narrow isthmus. The king accompanied his son to the narrowest point of the tongue of land; when the young prince had disappeared from sight, to further emphasize the separation, he drew a line with his finger across the sands. The waters met and Bali became an island.

The dangers lurking in the waters around the island suggest a possible reason why Bali remained obscure and unconquered until 1908. Besides the strong tidal currents and the great depths of the straits, the coasts are little indented and are constantly exposed to the full force of the monsoons; where they are not bordered by dangerous coral banks, they rise from the sea in steep cliffs. Anchorage is thus out of the question except far out to sea, and the Dutch have bad to build an artificial port in Benoa to afford a berth for small vessels.
the beginning there was nothing, all was emptiness; there was only space. Before there were the heavens, there was no earth, and when there was no earth, there was no sky. . . . Through meditation, the world serpent Antaboga created the turtle Bedawang, on whom lie coiled two snakes as the foundation of the World. On the world turtle rests a lid, the Black Stone. There is no sun, there is no moon, there is no night in the cave below (the underside of the stone); this is the underworld, whose gods are the male Batara Kala and the female Setesuyara. There lives also the great serpent Basuki. . . . "
Kala created the light and Mother Earth, over which extends a layer of water. Over this again are consecutive domes or skies, high and low; one of mud (which dried to become the earth and the mountains); then the 'empty' middle sky (the atmosphere), where Iswara dwells; above this is the floating sky, the clouds, where Semara sits, the god of love. Beyond that follows the 'dark' (blue) sky with the sun and the moon, the home of Surya; this is why they are above the clouds. Next is the Perfumed Sky beautiful and full of rare flowers where live the bird Tiak, whose face is like a human face, the serpent Taksaka, who has legs and wings, and the awan snakes, the falling stars. Still higher in the sky gringsing wayang, the' flaming heaven of the ancestors! And over all the skies live the great gods who keep watch over the heavenly nymphs." Thus we have it that the island rests on the turtle, which floats on the ocean.
As the last Asiatic outpost to the east, Bali is interesting to the naturalist as an illustration of the theory of evolution. In 1869 Alfred Russell Wallace discovered that the fauna and flora typical of Asia end in Bali, while the earlier, more primitive biologi. cal forms found in Australia begin to appear in the neighboring island of Lombok, just east of Bali. Here the last tigers, cows,
This is from the Catur Yoga, a popular manuscript which translated for the sake of practice on the language. It consists of ideas on cosmogony, mythology, legends of the creation of man, etc., ending in a confused set of rules for crema tion and Balinese genealogies.
(Banteng), Monkeys, woodpeckers, pythons, etc., of Asia are not to be found farther east, and the cockatoos, parrots, and giant lizards predominate. Bali has the luxuriant vegetation of tropical Asia, while Lombok is and and thorny, like Australia. Wallace drew a line across the narrow straits between Bali and Lombok, the deepest waters in the archipelago, to divide Asia from Oceania.' Today, however, scientists are more inclined to regard the islands as a transitional region.

As in all countries near the Equator, Bali has an eternal summer with even, warm weather, high humidity, and a regular variation of winds, but the unbearable heat of lands similarly situated is greatly relieved by sea breezes that blow constantly over the descending slopes of the four volcanoes that form the island. The seasons are not distinguished as hot and cold, but as wet and dry. It is pleasantly cool and dry during our summer months, when the southeasterly winds blow, but in November the north-west monsoon ushers in six months of a rainy season so violent that it makes everything rot away, growing green whiskers of mould on shoes that are not shined every day. Then the atmosphere becomes hot and sticky and the torrential rains that lash the island cause landslides tha often carry enormous trees into the deep ravines cut into the soft volcanic ash by the rivers, themselves red with earth washed from the mountain. Brooks and rivers swell into huge torrents (banjir) that rise unexpectedly with a deafening roar, in front of one's eyes, carrying away earth, plants, and occasional drowned pigs, destroying bridges and irrigation works. It is not unusual for a careless bather to be surprised by a sudden banjir and to be carried away in the muddy stream.

It is only natural that in a land of steep mountains, with such abundant rains, crossed in all directions by streams and great rivers, on a soil impregnated with volcanic ash, the earth should attain great richness and fertility. The burning tropical sun shining on the saturated earth produces a steaming, electric, hot. house atmosphere that gives birth to the dripping jungles that cover the slopes of the. Volcanoes with prehistoric tree-ferns, pandanus, and palms, strangled in a mesh of creepers of all sorts, their trunks smothered with orchids and alive with leeches, fantastic butterflies, birds, and screeching wild monkeys. This exuberance extends to the cultivated parts of the island, where-the rice fields that cover this over-populated land produce every year, and without great effort, two crops of the finest rice in the Indies.
Despite the enormous population, the lack of running water has kept the western part of the island uninhabited and wild. The few remaining tigers, and the deer, wild bog, crocodiles, great lizards, jungle cocks, etc., are the sole dwellers in this and hilly country covered with a dusty, low brush. Curiously enough, the Balinese regard this deserted land (Pulaki) as their place of origin. They explain in an old legend that a great city, which still exists, once flourished there, but has been made invisible to human eyes by Wahu Rahu, the greatest Brahmana from Java, who was forced to flee from the capital, Gelgel, to save his beautiful daughter from the king (by caste his inferior) and who found refuge in Pulaki by making the city invisible to the wicked king and his followers.
Another and region in contrast with the extravagant fertility of the island is the peninsula of limestone called Tafelhoek (Bukit to the Balinese) which rises to a height of 700 feet above the sea. This curious tableland, which shows every indication of having once been at the bottom of the ocean, is joined to the mainland by 2 low, narrow isthmus, but its sides rise almost vertically from the sea, and on the extremity of a long narrow rock, with a straight drop Of 250 feet, is the fantastically situated temple of Uluwatu, one of the holiest in Bali. This projecting rock is believed to be the ship, turned to stone, of Dewi Danu, the goddess of waters.

Elephant-fish " (gajah-mina) with elegant stylized trunks, and eyes to see at night. With their triangular sails apex downward, they go far out to sea at sunset to procure the giant sea-turtles required at the frequent banquets of this feast-loving people. Most Balinese seldom eat fish and remain essentially a rice-eating race. Their repugnance for the sea may be due to the same religious fear of the supernatural that prevents them from climbing to the summit of the great mountains. The Balinese feel that the heights are for the gods, the middle world for humans, and the depths and low points for the spirits of the underworld. They dread the unholy loneliness of the beaches haunted by demons and they believe that the coastline is under the influence of Jero Gede Mecaling, the Fanged Giant, who lives on the barren island of Nusa Penida. They are one of the rare island peoples in the world who turn their eyes not outward to the waters, but upward to the mountain tops.

Bali's Past

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Reminiscing The Past of Bali
The finding of a few traces of Stone Age people in Bali indicates that the island was inhibited very early in prehistoric times. With the mediation of Java, Indian traders brought and influenced Hinduism culture. Inscriptions on a stone pillar near Sanur from the IX Century were the earliest written records. In the XI Century, the influence of Hinduism from Java spread into Bali.
Bali was under Javanese Kingdom's control when Singasari Dynasty conquered Bali in 1284. The autonomy was regained by Balinese Kingdom when Pejeng Dynasty rose to power. Javanese Kingdom ruled back in Bali after the great Majapahit Dynasty defeated Pejeng Kingdom in 1343. In the XV Century, after Islam played a major influence in Java, The Majapahit Kingdom collapsed and many Hindu people from Java moved to Bali and enriched the cultural nuance.
Dutch sailors were the first European came to Bali in 1597. In the 1600s, After the Dutch established trade treaties with Javanese princes and struggled in the spice trade with the Portuguese, the Dutch became more interested in profit.
The Dutch landed military forces in Northern Bali in 1846 and used Balinese salvage claims over shipwrecks as an alleged reason. Conspiring with the Sasaks of Lombok, the Dutch tried to defeat the King of Bali. Finally, the Sasaks changed their point of view and slaughtered the Dutch. The incident made Dutch invading Bali with a heavy military force. After the attack, the northern part of Bali was under Dutch's control and the ties with Lombok severed. The southern part of Bali also lost its autonomy. In 1904, another salvage clash resulted in Dutch warships appearing off Sanur.
After taking five days for Dutch troops to reach Denpasar, the Dutch urged the Kingdom of Bali to surrender. Balinese monarchs and religious leaders decided to take the moral path of a suicidal puputan - a fight to the death - rather than surrender. First the palaces were burnt, then - dressed in their finest jewelry and waving golden blades-the King led the royalty and priests confronted the Dutch and their modern weapons. The Dutch pleaded the Balinese to surrender, but the Balinese refused to do so and had choose to die rather than surrender. Almost 4000 Balinese died in this war.
Finally, The entire island came under Dutch control and became a part of the Dutch East Indies. Despite the extensive overture to colonization, Japanese took control of Bali and other part of in Indonesia in World War II.
After the independence of Indonesia, it took almost more than four years to persuade the Dutch for not going back in charge in Indonesia. In 1946, Balinese resistance group was wiped out in the Battle of Marga. The Dutch finally recognised Indonesia's independence in 1949.
In 1965, an attempted coup d'état blamed on communists led to Sukarno's collapse. General Suharto suppressed the coup and emerged as a foremost political figure. In Bali, local communists were professed as a hazard to traditional principles and the caste system because of their manifesto. Religious traditionalists took advantage of the post-coup hysteria and led a hunt against communist loyalists. Mobs began to kill people suspected communists. An estimated 50,000 to 100,000 people were killed, at a time when the island's population only totalled 2 million.
During the Suharto's administrations, the government of Indonesia looked the west for alliances and investment. In Bali, the tourism industry played the major role and the establishment of infrastructure and supporting facilities were done. These efforts created not only a dramatic economic growth but also the dislocation of local populations and disturbance of many traditional communities. Many Balinese feel that Javanese interests dominate the industry and the locals have slight control over its growth.

BALI, island of Gods and Demons.

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Both magical and mythical, this land of volcanic lakes, spectacular rice terraces, stunning tropical beaches, ancient temples and palaces is and exotic melting pot of cultures and peoples. Renowned of its unsurpassed architecture, traditional theatre, dance and elaborate religious festivals, the colorful Balinese culture is a dynamic force that is constantly synthesizing the old and the new, the traditional and the innovative.

LOCATION
Bali is one of more than 18 thousands island in Indonesia. It is located between the two islands Java & Nusa Tenggara, between 8 03 40 8 degree South latitude and 114 25 & 115 42 40 degree East longitude.
Bali has 5.632,86 square kilometers of land. The total population is approximately 3.2 million people.
Standard time zone is UTC/GMT + 8 hours.

REGENCIES
As a part of 30 provinces in the Republic of Indonesia, Bali is divided into 8 regencies ( Badung , Gianyar , Tabanan , Bangli , Karangasem , Jembrana , Buleleng and Klungkung , 1 municipal city ( Denpasar ), 51 districts and 666 administrative villages.
Denpasar is the capital city of Bali province.

Mount Agung is used as orientation and considered North (Kaja) while the sea is considered South (Kelod). This is the reason why "south" in Buleleng is the opposite of "south" in Badung. In Hindu perspective, north direction (mount) is a holy place while on the southern part is the insulted place.

In the division of area, it is analogized the anatomy of the body: head, body and legs as utama (main), madya (medium) and nista (insult). Therefore, the holy place is located in north edge, in the middle as a place of residence and in the south as place of cemetery. Even, for sleeping, head is faced to north or east and legs are directed to south or west.

THE PEOPLE
The Balinese are one of the 250 ethnic groups in the Indonesian archipelago. Most of them (95%) are Hindus, a religion which came from India, passing through Sumatera and Java. After the fall of Majapahit empire all the Hindu aristocrats and the common people fled to Bali, bringing along their religion, traditions, literature and arts. Other religions like Christianity or Moslem, Buddhism are also in Bali. But all live in peace, there is no conflict of religion or conflict of ethnics. The population of Bali are three million people. Most of them live in the southern part of the island. Here the tourist resorts are located such as Sanur, Kuta and Nusa Dua. The Balinese people are very creative. They have created and are still creating various kinds of artistic creativities such as wood carving (statues), paintings, gold and silver smith, handicrafts, dances and religious offerings. Nearly everyday there are religious ceremonies in the temples spread all over the island. There are the so called "Bali Aga"; people, the original Balinese communities in several places like in Tenganan or Trunyan. It is worthwhile to visit them there.

CLIMATE
Bali has tropical climate all year with two different seasons namely dry season from April to October and wet season from November to March. The average temperature hovers around 30 degrees Celsius year-round. The average yearly rainfall between 893,4 mm till 2702,6 mm with average humidity is 79%.
Weather information

POPULATION
Bali has 5.632,86 square kilometers of land.
The total population is approximately 3.021.247 people.

IMMIGRATION & CUSTOMS
Immigration Offices :
Jl. D. I. Panjaitan, Niti Mandala, Complex Renon - Denpasar
Phone : (62 361) 238 168
Ngurah Rai Airport Complex, Tuban, Kuta
Phone : (62 361) 751 038
Customs regulations allow, per adult, a maximum of one litter of alcoholic beverages, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 100 gram of tobacco and a reasonable amount of perfume. Photographic, video and filming equipments, radio, typewriter and car are admitted as they are recorded in you passport on entry and taken out on departure. Narcotics, arms and ammunition TV, sets and Chinese medicines are items that strictly prohibited while fresh fruit, plant and animals must be passed by the Quarantine Office.

BANK & MONEY EXCHANGE
Most foreign currencies are easily changed at banks, hotels or money changers. Banking hours are from 8.00am to 14.00 noon Mondays to Fridays, and from 8.00am to 11.00am on Saturdays. Bank in Hotels usually stay open longer hours while Money Changers are generally open till evening. ATM is available in many places, provides VISA, MASTER, ALTO and more.

MEDICAL SERVICES & HOSPITAL
Hospitals and Health Centers staffed by well trained doctors and medical-assistants are available in major tourist resort and the Provincial Capital. Public Health Centre is also available at every Sub district unit.
Sanglah Hospital
Jl. Diponegoro, Denpasar
Ph. (62 361) 227 911
SOS
Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai 505x, Kuta
Ph. (62 361) 710 505 Bali Medical Center
Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai 100x, Kuta
Ph. (62 361) 761 263
CONTACT NUMBERS
Police : 110
Ambulance : 118
Fire Department : 113
SAR : 115/151/111

TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES
Bali is linked via satellite to all major countries in the world and to make an International call can be made from any private house, business center, hotel telephone, or "Wartel" (Telecommunication Counter). Internet is also can be reached at many "Warnet" (Internet Counter). For local and international phone and fax service look out for a sign like this: Int'l Direct Dialing 001 or 008 + country code + area code + local telephone number. Int'l Direct Inquiries : 102, 101
Local Inquiries : 147
Operator Assisted : 110/104

BALI TOURIST INFORMATION

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Overseas, you can contact the Indonesian embassy or consulate, or one of the following Indonesia Tourist Promotion Board offices:

ASEAN & Southeast Asia , 10 Collyer Quay #15-07, Ocean Building, Singapore 0104. Phone (65) 534-2837, fax: (65) 533-4287.

Australia & New Zealand , Level 10, 5 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia. Phone (612) 233-3630, fax: (612) 233-3629, 357-3478.

Europe, Wiesenhuttenstrasse 17, D-6000 Frankfurt/Main 1, Germany . Phone (49 169) 233-677, fax: (49 169) 230-840.

Japan & Korea , Sankaido Building, 2nd Floor, 1-9-13 Ahasaka, Minatoku, Tokyo 107. Phone (813) 3585-3588, fax: (813) 3582-1397.

North America , 3457 Wiltshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90010-2203. Phone (213) 387-2078, fax: (213) 380-4876.

Taiwan & Hong Kong , 66 Sung Chiang Road, 5th Floor, Taipei, Taiwan. Phone (886 2) 537-7620. Fax: (886 2) 537-7621.

United Kingdom , Ireland, Benelux & Scandinavia, 3-4 Hanover Street, London WIR 9HH. Phone (44 171) 493-0334, fax: (44 171) 493-1747.

The Directorate General of Tourism in Jakarta has brochures and maps on all Indonesian provinces: JI. Kramat Raya 81, PO Box 409, Jakarta 10450. Phone (021) 310-3117/9, fax: (021) 310-1146.

Local government tourism offices, Dinas Pariwisata, are generally only good for basic information. More useful assistance is often available from privately run (but government approved) Tourist Information Services. Be aware that many offices calling themselves "Tourist Information" are simply travel agents.

The tourist information counter at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Tuban (Phone 751001, ext. 1313) is open 24 hours. Other major offices are: Badung Government Tourist Office, JI. Surapati, Denpasar, Phone 223602, open 8am-2:30 pm Mon-Thurs, 7am-11am Fri.

Department of Tourism , Post and Telecommunication Regional Office X, JI. Raya Puputan, Niti Mandala, Renon, Denpasar 85112, Phone 225649, 233474, fax: 233475, open 7am-3pm Mon-Thurs, 7am-noon Fri.

Government Tourist Information Center , Mastapa Garden, 2nd Floor, Denpasar, Phone 751660, ext. 145, open 10am-4pm Mon-Sat.

Visas
Nationals of the following 46 countries do not need visas, and are granted visa-free entry for 60 days upon arrival.
• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria Italy
• Belgium
• Brazil
• Brunei
• Canada
• Chile
• Denmark
• Egypt
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland Saudi Arabia
• Japan
• Kuwait
• Liechtenstein
• Luxembourg
• Malaysia
• Maldives
• Malta • Mexico
• Monaco
• Morocco
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Philippines
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Venezuela
• Yugoslavia

Be sure to check your passport before leaving for Indonesia. You must have at least one empty page to be stamped upon arrival and the passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of arrival. For visa-free entry, you must also have proof of onward journey, either a return or through ticket. Employment is strictly forbidden on tourist visas or visa-free entry.
Visa-free entry to Indonesia cannot be extended beyond two months (60 days) and can. not be converted to any other kind of visa.
A visa is required in advance for all other nationals or arrivals at minor ports.
Upon arrival you will be given a white embarkation/disembarkation card to fill out. Keep this card with your passport, as you must present it when leaving the country.

Other Visas
The 2-month, non-extendable tourist pass is the only entry permit that comes without a great deal of paperwork.
A social visa, usually valid for 4-5 weeks, can be extended for up to 6 months, but is difficult to get. You must have a good reason for being in Indonesia (relatives, language study), and you must have a sponsor who will assume financial responsibility for you. The process can take days or even weeks, and extensions are at the discretion of the immigration office where you apply.
A business visa requires a letter from a company stating that you are performing a needed service for a company in Indonesia. It is valid for up to one year, but you must leave the country every 4 months. This is not intended as an employment visa, but is for investors, consultants, or other business purposes. You are not to earn money in Indonesia on a business visa.
Two other types of passes are available: the temporary residence pass (KITAS) for research, formal study, or employment, and the permanent residence pass (KITAP). Both are difficult to get.
The Immigration Office is on JI. Panjaitan and open 8am-3pm Mon-Thurs, Fri till 11 am and Sat until 12 noon, Phone 227828. It can be reached from Sanur by the green bemo. Be on your best behavior and dress appropriately.

Customs
Narcotics, firearms and ammunition are strictly prohibited. The standard duty-free allowance is: 2 liters of alcoholic beverages, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 100 grams of tobacco.
There is no restriction on import and export of foreign currencies in cash or travelers checks, but there is an export limit of 50,000 Indonesian rupiah.
All narcotics are illegal in Indonesia. The use, sale or purchase of narcotics results in long prison terms, huge fines and death, in some cases. Once caught, you are immediately placed in detention until trial, and the sentences are stiff, as demonstrated by Westerners currently serving sentences as long as 30 years for possession of marijuana.

BALI - DENPASAR PRACTICALITIES

2009-01-07T05:25:00.000-08:00

BALI - DENPASAR PRACTICALITIES
DENPASAR
Municipal city
Denpasar covers 125,42 square kilometers of land with an elevation ranging from 12 to 75 meters above sea level , and consisting of 3 kecamatan. The Kecamatan of East Denpasar, South Denpasar , and West Denpasar. The population of Denpasar is about 360,000 people. Even thought the town is relatively busy, especially its crisscrossing traffic, the atmosphere in this town remains pleasant because of the relaxed Bali influence. The average temperature in this town is 28 degrees Celcius, the humidity varies between 60 and 97%

• SAKENAN TEMPLE
Is built in the 13 Th Century by a holy priest namely : " Dang hyang Dwijedra " on a small island very close to the Benoa Harbour and Nusa Dua Local outrigger sailing canoes can be hired from sanur for an hour's scenic sail down the coast, or motorized canoes . Now, it can be reached through a roadway in approximately 15 minutes to the east of Kuta

• JAGAT NATHA TEMPLE
One of the most beautiful temples of Denpasar is the Central Pura Jagat Natha, at the Northeast corner of puputan Square. This temple comes alive at the full moon ceremony, when worsppiers from all over the city gather to bring offerings and devotions. On the main street of Denpasar, its restful sahede and gnarled frangipani trees offer a welcome contrast to the hubbub of city traffic. Also, you'll find the market temple, Pura Melanting, where busy vendors pause to make their offerings for a prosperous day.

•
MUSEUM BALI
On the eastern side of the historic Puputan Square in Denpasar is the Museum of Bali, built by the Ducth in 1932. The Original collection was put together with the assistance of a German painter. Well apportioned exhibition halls display an excellent collection of Balinese artifacts from prehistoric to contemporary times, including weapons, dance costumes, Ming ceramic, cloth and paitings.
• BENOA
Just north of the Nusa Dua complex, takes one on to the narrow peninsula of land, which terminates in the small village of Benoa. From the concrete pier, you can see over the Serangan Island, lying low on the water. From this fishing village, people can depart daily by the Cruise ship . Out in the bay , is an anchorage for ocean - going yachts and The Bali International Yachts also has a base here.

• SANUR
On the Eastern coastline, sheltered by the coral reef, the waves here are much gentler than other areas of Bali. Sanur is a multitude of contrasts. As in the past , Fisherman still wander the beach and the colourful outrigger canoes can be hired for sailing trips along the coast and outlying island. In the last two decades the once sleepy village of Sanur has become an elite international resort with huge hotel complexes offering first class Accommodations and every modern facility to visiting tourists.

• WERDI BUDAYA
Was built in 1973 to the design of the prominent Balinese architect. Ida Bagus Tugur, as a showplace for Bali's performing and fine arts. Strategically situated on Jalan Nusa Indah, Abian Kapas, Denpasar, the Art Center has three art galleries, including one permanent pavilions, including the huge open stage and arena, Ardha Chandra. Local artist,dance and drama groups, and the music school, STSI , all utilize the seminar and exhibition halls on regular basis. Since 1979, the Festival pf the Arts has been instigated as an manual fixture at the Art Cente

Denpasar is the bustling commercial heart of Bali. JI. Gajah Mada is the main street, running east-west. It changes names to JI. Dr. Wahidin to the west and JI. Surapati to the east. The center of commercial activity is on JI. Diponegoro and JI. Teuku Umar. Prices in US dollars. AC = Air conditioning. Telephone code is 0361.
The airport taxi co-op counter is outside customs, near "left luggage". The set fare is Rp35,000 to Denpasar. Buy a ticket at the counter for the sedan taxis. To take a bemo, walk out to the main road as far as the impressive white charioteer statue on the corner (about 1.5 km). From there, flag down a blue bemo van-it will take you down to "bemo corner" in Kuta for Rp1.500, where you can get another bemo to Denpasar. Metered taxis operate outside the airport-make sure they start the argometer before you take off.
DENPASAR
Traffic is heavy and streets are often jammed during peak season. The four-wheeled bemos serve the inner city, while the four-wheeled versions serve the suburban terminals. Fare for a terminal to terminal journey is Rp 1,000. Bemos can also be chartered for jaunts around town, but it's easier and more economical to take the Praja (orange, phone 289090), Pan Wirthi (green, Phone 723366) or Bali Taxi (blue Phone 701111), Kowinu Taxi (Brown 773030) metered taxis. Fare at flag fall is Rp3,000; minimum fare for ordering by phone is Rp6,000. Taxi-motorcycles ( ojek ) are available. You can hire a dokar (horse cart) for about Rp.10,000 per km. However, the best way to get around Denpasar is on foot. The city is relatively small and you'll want to look in the shops anyway. For tourist services see Travel Advisory.

Accommodations in Denpasar
has two hotels of historical and cultural note-Bali Hotel and the Pemecutan
Palace Hotel. The rest of the hotels in Denpasar are losmen-style, catering mostly to groups and domestic tourists. If you're on a tight budget and travel with a group, these can be a great bargain. During the Indonesian holiday seasons (June through August, Lebaran and Christmas/New Year), the hotels fill up, so make reservations in advance.

Eating out in Denpasar
Denpasar is a great place for all styles of Indonesian and Chinese food. Prices are very reasonable. Many good restaurants are found on JI. Teuku Umar, JI. Sumatra and on JI. Veteran, near the Satria bird market. Also check out the night markets and food centers.
• Ayam Baker Taliwang JI. Teuku Umar. Spicy hot Sasak (Lombok) style cuisine. Specialties: plecingkangkung(swamp spinach) and grilled chicken.
• Bundo Kanduang JI. Diponegoro 112 A, near Kerta Wjaya Shopping Center. Best Padang food in town: open 24 hrs.
• Rumah Makan Sumatra is another Padang option, JI. Teuku Umar 88X.
• Hong-Kong Restaurant JI. Gajah Mada 99. The local favorite for Chinese food. Or, try Rasa Sayang on JI. Teuku Umar, a popular place for great Chinese fare, including seafood.
• Kak Man JI. Teuku Umar. Authentic Balinese food in a Bali kitch setting.
• Gula Lunak, JI. Teuku Umar 120, for Balinese food in a nice atmosphere and outdoor seating option.
• Balinese chicken is a specialty at Warung Satria, Jl. Kedondong 11A, Phone 235993, and JI. Tunjung Sari 65. They open at 9am and 10am respectively.
• Or, try the suckling pig at Warung Nasi Gemah Ripah, JI. Supratman 118.
• Ikan Bakar Rica on JI. Teuku Umar is known for its seafood and Manadonese menu.
• Mie Ayam Jakarta JI. Veteran. Famous for its Chinese mie (noodles) and bakwan (meatball) soups.
• Prambanan Restaurant JI. Hayam Wuruk 30XX, next to the RRI radio station. Great Javanese food in a beautiful wooden building.
• Soto Ayam Suroboyo JI. Veteran, near Satria bird market. Specializes in soto (chicken soup) and other East Javanese dishes, such as ayam kampung goreng and ayam kampung bakar (free range fried and grilled chicken). And go to Warung Sate Muslim on JI. Thamrin for the best sate in town.
• There are three good restaurants on Jalan Sumatra (near the Corsica newsstand). Betty, at no. 56, serves Indonesian favorites such as mie goreng and frogs legs for a couple of dollars.
• Mie 88, at no. 88, has delicious Chinese meat balls and the Depot Kikel at no. 40-42, has good Javanese soto soup.
Night Markets and Food Centers

For an authentic local experience check out one of Denpasar's night markets (pasar malam), where you sit out under the stars and eat at small food stalls. Open from sunset to 10 pm. The biggest is at Kereneng terminal, another is outside the Kumbasari shopping center. The food is mostly Javanese and Balinese.
For the whole range of local food in a cleaner, if less exotic, environment try the food centers, located in the city's supermarkets (see below).

Shopping in Denpasar : Denpasar is where Balinese villagers come for all their day-to-day necessities. Most shops close at 1 pm, re-open 6 pm-10 pm.
Markets and Supermarket
Pasar Badung is Bali's biggest traditional market. Located on the eastern bank of the Badung river, it is in the heart of the city. The first floor has fresh produce, flower offerings and spice vendors. The third floor has textiles, dance costumes and traditional accessories. At Denpasar's supermarkets and department stores prices are fixed and cheap, and quality is high. The main ones are: Tiara Dewata, Ramayana at Bali Mall, Matahari, Libi, Siwa, Kerta Wijaya, Atfa, Dharma, and New Dewata Ayu.
For a good one-stop-shop, visit the Indonesian Export Gallery on the 3rd floor of Bali Mall Ramayana on JI. Diponegoro for paintings, handicrafts, home furnishings, batik and souvenirs.
Textiles -
Check out our Bali products page
Modem textiles. Kampung Arab, JI. Sulawesi; or Toko Yadnya, JI. Gajah Mada. Tailored clothes at Alus, JI. Gajah Mada; or Adhie, JI. Sumatra.
Traditional textiles. Lestari on the ground floor of the Lokitasari shopping center, JI. Thamrin, sells traditional songket fabric directly from the loom. Danar Hadi, at the same shopping center, sells fashionable batiks from Java. Take a look at Surya Jaya, JI. Gajah Mada 128, for ikat. Kumbasari market, on the west bank of the river, also has a wide variety of songket and batik materials.
Handicrafts end Antiques
Check out our Bali products page
Pasar Kumbasari and Pasar Badung have all sorts of Balinese crafts for reasonable prices. Satria Art Market specializes in handicrafts. Also try the craft shops on JI. Sulawesi and JI. Gajah Mada. For genuine antiques, visit Arts of Asia, behind Lokitasari shopping center, JI. Thamrin 27-37 .
Gold and Silver
Check out our Bali products page
JI. Hasanuddin and JI. Sulawesi are full of gold shops. Prices are comparable to Singapore or Hong Kong; the gold is 22-24 carat. Check out the Balinese jewelry made of beaten gold on the second floor of the Kumbasari market. Mega Art shop, JI. Gajah Mada 36-38, has silver jewelry.
Coffee
Balinese coffee makes a great souvenir. Toko Bhinneka Jaya, JI. Gajah Mada 80, is the biggest producer and distributor of coffee in Bali. $3 per kilo for robusta; $4 per kilo for arabica.

Banks. These banks process advances against your credit card for 5% commission. Take your passport. Bank Central Asia (MasterCard), JI. Hasanuddin 58, Phone 431012; Bank International Indonesia is the Western Union agent, Jl. Dewi Sartika (Phone 234306).
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs). These machines are abundant and found in front of nearly every bank. Shopping centers typically have several different banks' machines. Most accept banking cards linked to international networks.
The Balinese swarm to Denpasar for cultural attractions, so be prepared to be caught in a big crowd of locals. On the eve of the Nyepi day (Balinese new year), usually in March, hundreds of ogoh-ogoh papier mach monsters are carried along the streets of the city. This extraordinary torchlit cavalcade is reminiscent of a small scale South American carnival.
Bali's annual arts festival is held from mid June to mid-July at the Art Center off J1. Hayam Wuruk. A month of dance, discussions and exhibitions. The Art Center also holds daily kecak dances at 6:30 pm. Barong performances at Kesiman at 9:30 pm.

Museum : Beautiful collections of terracotta, carvings, painting and ceremonial costumes are found at the Bali Museum (Phone 222680), on the eastern side of Puputan Square. Open Mon-Thurs 7:30 am-2 pm, Fri till 11 am, Sat until 12:30 pm. Closed Sunday.

Hospitals - Medical. Sanglah General Hospital, JI. Kesehatan Selatan 1, Sanglah, Denpasar. Switchboard / Emergency, Phone 227911/5. Kasih Ibu, JI. Teuku Umar 120 Phone 223036. Surya Husada, JI. Pulau Serangan 13 Phone 233787. These smaller hospitals are a little less daunting than the enormous general hospital and tend to provide a quicker, more personal service.
Pharmacy. Apotik Kimia Farma, JI. Diponegoro 123-125, Phone 227811.
Opticians. International Optical, J1. Gajah Mada 133, Phone 426294; Lily Kasoem, JI. Teuku Umar 74XX, Phone 238405; Optik Seis, JI. Thamrin 52, Phone 437467; Tiara Optical, JI. Mayjen Sutoyo 55 at Tiara Dewata shopping center, Phone 235733.
Postal services. The central post office is on A. Raya Puputan, Renon. Open 8 am-8 pm. Other post offices: JI. Diponegoro, near Teuku Umar crossroads; Jl. Kamboja, near Kereneng terminal; JI. Supratman.
Telecommunications (Wartel). The main telecommunications (telkom) office is at JI. Teuku Umar 6. Open 8 am-8 pm. Other telkom offices: JI. Raya Puputan in Renon and JI. Kaliasem, near Puputan square. Smaller wartels are scattered throughout the city.

Massage . Masseurs in Denpasar are more professional than those at Kuta. Sari Ayu, JI. Nusa kambangan 35XX is a traditional salon.
Movies and Nightlife . Wisata Cineplex, JI. Thamrin (Phone 423024) has 5 screens. Galeria cinema 21 , phone 0361 767021 for the most up to date movies playing. Check out their web site with movie schedules, you will love the midnight movies -playing saturday nights. . I just love to watch Midnight in this cinema - click here
There's also the Kumbasari, J1. Gajah Mada. Check the Bali Post for details. The Citra discotheque is on the top floor of the Kumbasari building. Filled with local youth.
Photo Processing . Tati Photo at JI. Sumatra and Fuji Image Plaza at J1. Thamrin are quite professional. Have your portrait taken wearing a Balinese outfit at Tati or Fuji Professional Photo, JI. Diponegoro 89 (Phone 226965), which is also the best slide processor on the island, with one-day service.
Newspapers . The Jakarta Post and Indonesian Observer are widely available English language dailies.

BALI BEACHES

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Kuta
As a pearl of Bali, Kuta is one of the best beaches in Asia, with the only waves, which breaks over sand instead of a coral. This most popular tourist destination has succeeded in combining the need of local people and visitors. The original Kuta villagers have involved in the tourism industry for years.Kuta and surrounding offers various kind of accommodation, from simple and cheap accommodation provided by the locals to luxurious accommodation managed by international hotel chain.Kuta's seas are ideally best for surfing. Everyday both Balinese and foreigners are found along the golden sands of Kuta beach. Kuta area is also completed with various tourist facilities such as restaurants, pubs, bars, souvenir shops, tattoo parlors and travel offices.Along the north of Kuta, Legian street offers a number of high quality boutiques, excellent restaurants, cafes and bars influenced by western style. Exclusive hotels can be easily found in Seminyak, further north of Kuta, while antiques wooden furniture shops in Jalan Raya Kerobokan.

Jimbaran
Jimbaran is another resort near Kuta, which the tourist are quite fond of. It's a drowsy bay where flotillas of fishing boats blush the panorama.Jogging is widely practiced sport in Jimbaran beach and is especially tempting in the covered glow of sunset. It's also an admired spot for windsurfing and sailing small craft, which are obtainable for rent.The quietness of Jimbaran is a perfect attraction to spend sometime while feeling the sensation of sea breeze and facing the sunset.

Tuban
Located between Kuta and the airport, Tuban is a nice place to stay. Around Tuban is completed with various type of hotels and many supporting tourist facilities. Tuban beaches are safe for swimming and it is such a perfect place to unwind.
Uluwatu, Padang Padang & Bingin
These beaches are popular among surfers. Lack of supporting facilities is not an obstacle for tourist with adventure spirit to conquer the waves.Now, a number of infrastructure developments have been started to establish in these area. This means as an effort to provide a good accessibility for anyone who come there.

Sanur
The main attraction of Sanur beach are the beaches with their very white sand and the beauty of constantly calm water. Sanur area has all level of accommodation and solid network of infrastructure.Sanur is also the place where the few remaining of Brahman Kuasa villages found. Some of the charming ritual procession such as Bali's only all-female keris dance is held in this area.The Prasasti Blanjong, an emblazoned pillar here dated AD 913, is Bali's earliest behind the times relic and is now kept in a temple in Blanjong village, southern part of Sanur.
Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is a lovely commune devoted to tourism. The objective of the establishment was to meet all demands of tourism. The most exclusive and well-known remedy in Bali offers the best in terms of tourists structures and services, well-built and efficient hotel complexes with inclusive facilities, golf course with international standards where worldwide competition are also held, luxurious shops and exclusive beaches for tourists only.The village of Bualu, in Nusa Dua area has a picturesque site as well as for its relative isolation from densely populated areas. Most of hotel in Nusa Dua is landmark of the new Balinese architecture.
Nusa Lembongan
Located in the eastern part of Bali, Nusa Lembongan is a popular place for diving and snorkeling. It has a professional dive centers and is an ideal relaxation stop for sailing trips from the mainland. Many small crafts offers day trip to the island.With the backdrop of Mount Agung, the immaculate island has spectacular scenery and offers unforgettable adventure. Nusa Lembongan's neighboring island, Nusa Penida is less popular and tourism does not play an important role there.
Amed and Tulamben
Eastern part of Bali offers alternative destinations, which are Amed and Tulamben. Amed is a resort town that will bring back the old memory of Kuta. Completed with simple tourist supporting facilities such as Losmen, small hotels and amateur entertainment, Amed is a popular site for snorkeling.With the panorama changing drastically to dry hills covered with scrub, Tulamben is quieter and even more popular for diving. As one of the most renowned diving site in Indonesia, Tulamben offers diverse marine life and magnificent under water world.

Padang Bai
A flawlessly shaped bay cradled by the hills, Padang Bai is a perfect escape in the east of Bali. As a transit harbor to Bali neighboring islands such as Nusa Penida and Lombok, passenger and cargo vessel departing everyday.There are a few losmen provided in Padang Bai. An intimate white sandy beach and lovely harbor scenery will make the holiday in Bali even more romantic.
Candi Dasa
As a recognized resort area for over topical decades, Candi Dasa is an entryway to East Bali. Compared to the resorts in southern part of Bali, Candi Dasa is much simpler.Offering low budget accommodation and few upscale hotels, the main attraction of Candi Dasa is a dazzling landscape of the beach. Blighted by jetties protruding into the water, intended to stop the erosion caused by coral blasting for years.

Lovina Beach
In the western part of Singaraja, long stretch of black sand beach encompasses Anturan, Tukad Mungga, Kalibukbuk, Kaliasem and Temukus villages collectively called Lovina. Lining up of busy losmen and hotels with the depleted shady sea makes Lovina one of the most stirring beaches in Bali.Tranquility, incredible under water world and dolphins are the magnetism of Lovina. From Lovina, visiting Pulau Menjangan, which is a part of West Bali National Park will be interesting for diving lover.

Tanah Lot
Located in Tabanan, just across the boundary of Badung regency, Tanah Lot is the most well-known and photographed temple.A truly remarkable and feature temple, Tanah Lot is built on a stony narrow piece of terrain, which the high tides transform into an island, making right of entry from the land impossible.It is particularly reminiscent at sunset when the illumination, at times a slender thread and others, a dazzling spark, springs back the waves. The beach around Tanah Lot is less comfortable for swimming but great for horse riding and watching spectacular sunset. Although surfing can be done in this area but it's recommended not for beginner.