How can i describe Bali?.....

A total new experience to all my senses is the best way!

I had been to Bali years ago so was very excited to be returning to see how it had changed. I was lucky enough to spend 2 months in Bali travelling around last year. On arrival after what seemed a very long flight (I stopped en route and would highly recommend this) I arrived at Denpasar airport. I had a taxi meet me and take me the short journey to where I was staying in Mumbel (just outside of Nusa Dua). Mumbel is a local village with a few small hotels which I had decided I wanted to try out.

After venturing down a dark alley with cows wandering, (we were starting to get a little concerned now!!) we came across our hotel. It was truly stunning hidden away from the madness and noise of the road. We met our hosts and got settled into our room for the night.

Next morning we were woken with the sun streaming in, time to explore now. Now over in Bali driving is not recommended certainly for the faint hearted. When you see 5 people on a moped you understand why. So we hired a car and driver. This is very reasonable and having the local knowledge was fantastic.

We set off and went up to Ubud. This is surrounded by Padi fields in the centre of the island. It is the art centre of the island, with excellent restaurants where you can go to learn to cook Indonesian food. After staying up here for a few nights we moved on to explore more of the island. Next stop was Amed which is famous for its salt making. This pretty little village is overlooked by mountains.

Next place was a dive stop, so across to Tulamben to see the famous wreck there. This is very close to the shore so you can snorkel here as well, as it has been dragged in over the years closer and closer to the shore line. Also if you like diving or just want a couple of nights on a different island why not visit Menjangen... This island has one hotel with a stunning infinity pool over looking the shores.

After travelling around we ended up back in the South - visiting and staying in Seminyak, Tuban, Kuta and Jimbaran. If you want an amazing seafood meal on the beach watching the sunset then Jimbaran is the place. Seminyak is the place to be seen with bars such as Ku de Ta. Kuta is the craziest place- with lots of shopping, nightlife and a busy beach. Also if you want exhilarating sports such as Bungee jumping you will find them here.

Bali has a wide variety of places to stay from cheap guesthouses to private villas, to top quality 5 star hotels. The food is truly amazing, even if you dont stay in the best hotels you can eat in their restaurants for bargain prices.... try Di Mare restaurant at Karma Hotel or Ma Jolie in Tuban.

If you are going to Australia would recommend this as a stop over, or why not visit and combine with Brunei or Bangkok .

It is a truly amazing, amazing place.