Bali as a Tourism Destination

Bali, one of over 13.000 islands in Indonesia, is famous for its scientific beauty, dynamic culture, and friendly people. Located just south of equator, tropical Bali has a hot, wet season (November-March), and a cool, dry one (May-September). Towering Volcanoes, some still active, contain large lake which provides water for irrigating thousand of terrace rice field, enabling up to 3 harvests per year.

Over the centuries the Balinese have fused influence from Asia and the west with their own traditions. Prehistoric remains predating the Christian era have been found, but the earliest inscriptions date only from the 9^th century. Buddhism arrived from India during the first few centuries. A.D. followed by Hinduism and trade contact with China. Relation with java began in the 11^th century, but full Javanese control of Bali didn’t come until 1334 and lasted just over 100 years. A division of the realm followed as factions of various Balinese ruling houses vied vied for power over the next few centuries. The Dutch first landed in Bali in the late 1500s, and after many battles Bali finally became the part of Netherlands Indies in the early 1900s. Colonial rule lasted until the Japanese invaded in 1942. And in the end of Word War II Indonesia became an independent republic.

Bali is one of its 27 province, with 9 regencies based on the territories of the formed kingdoms. Bali’s tourism has resulted in spectacular economic growth, a thriving hotel industry, and major improvements to Transportation and communications facilities. The international fame of Bali culture has brought a high end sense of identity among the Balinese. Many villages produce art and craft, present music and dance performances, and hold elaborate religious ceremonies. As always, the Balinese take everything in stride, absorbing and adapting from different sources. They are flexible people, welcoming news ideas ut at the same time retaining a unique lifestyle guide by their social, religious, and cultural traditions