Where to stay in Bali?

When people talk about paradise islands, they could be talking about Bali. This is a place where rice terraces are dotted across volcanic slopes while below are white sandy beaches. These tropical beaches are perfect for swimming and sunbathing during the day and for watching romantic sunsets in the evening. Refresh your spiritual soul, shop and surf, soak up the atmosphere of centuries-old temples or take to the water for sailing and scuba-diving. As well as being a perfect tropical paradise, Bali is also compact. Find a hotel or resort to act as your base and everything the island has to offer is just a short distance away.

Bali was first settled over 2,000 years ago and for much of that time, its history has been influenced by the neighbouring island of Java. This Javanese influence can still be seen in the dance, art and architecture of Bali and, most particularly, in its fascinating Wayang puppetry. Bali became independent of Java in the 16th century but was colonised by the Dutch in the 19th century. It did not regain its independence until the mid-20th century. The island then became a hippie destination in the 1970s but today, this magical place draws people from all walks of life and from every part of the world.

The hotels of Bali

A good choice of accommodation to suit all budgets can be found right across Bali. Jimbaran is a popular beach town with long stretches of white sand backed by luxury hotels and resorts. It is noted for the quality of its beachfront seafood restaurants. Trendier but still offering a good level of comfort and luxury is Seminyak. For culture combined with the countryside, head to the inland town of Ubud.

Discover hotels designed to look like typical Balinese villages in Sanur and Kuta or others in Ubud that have been created with a contemporary boutique atmosphere. The beach resorts of Nusa Dua are the last word in hedonistic luxury and often have their own indulgent spas. Like many hotels on the island, they will welcome children so search out ones that have clubs to keep them safely occupied. Then you can relax in the spa or enjoy a cocktail on your terrace. Whether you want mountain or sea views, to relax by the water or be a little more energetic, Bali is perfect for your next vacation.

A view of Bali

Most hotels in Bali are designed to give you vistas of lush botanical gardens or the shimmering coastline but if you want a more panoramic view of the island, then head to the central upland regions. As you explore, you'll see green rice paddies or temples silhouetted against mountain ranges. They are truly photogenic. For breathtaking seascapes of the East Bali coastline, climb to the Jemeluk Viewpoint above Jemeluk Bay. In the background is Mount Agung, the island's highest peak.

Although it involves a steep climb, the views from the Temple of Uluwatu are worth the effort especially if you visit at sunset. Keep your eyes open for the grey long-tailed macaques that make the temple and surrounding forest their home. During the day there are Kecak dance performances in the open-air amphitheatre.

Enjoy the magic of Bali

If you have time to take in just one temple, make it the Pura Lempuyang Luhur Temple although go prepared for its remote forest location. It sits at the top of 1,700 steps. If this is a little too much, you can stop off at other temples along the route such as the Pura Penataran Temple. Its ornate gates are designed to give a perfect view of Mount Agung and inside are towering dragon staircases.

South of Singaraja is the Sekumpul Waterfall. Seven separate cascades are constantly fed by upland streams and pour down a valley verdant with bamboo. Climb to the top waterfall through a landscape of clove, jackfruit, mangosteen and cacao trees. It's the perfect escape from the Balinese heat.

Bali has two seasons, rainy and dry and although the island can be visited all year round, the dry season months of April to October are the most popular with visitors. This is a time when flights and hotels get booked well in advance and you should plan ahead. At BudgetAir, we are ready to find you our best deals on hotels and flights for your holiday of a lifetime in Bali.