128Bali & Eastern IslandsSeminyak, BaliThe sunsets from this strip ofbeach are stunning and thereare a host of excellent spots to watch from.Gili Islands, LombokBeautiful coral reefs, colourfulfish, plenty of turtles and anarray of white sand beaches -the Gili Islands are a snorkeller's paradise.Mount Rinjani, LombokIndonesia's second highest peak and one of the mostscenic climbs in the world.Camp overnight on the craterrim and wake up to a trulystunning vista.Moyo Island, SumbawaSurrounded by the turquoisewaters and untouched reefs of the Flores Sea. Moyo isblessed with a variety of wildlifeand just one exclusive property,Amanwana, on its shores.5234Ubud, BaliBike around the paddy fieldcovered foothills of a nearbyvolcano, immerse yourself invillage life, or visit one of theisland's iconic temples.1Komodo archipelagoThe undulating islands of theKomodo archipelago have someof the most fantastic desertedwhite sand beaches and crystalclear waters in Southeast Asia.The prime draw is, of course,the Komodo dragon.Western SumbaVisit megalithic graves, stunningdeserted coastline and ananimist people that still practicetheir ancient rituals.Torajalands, SulawesiHome to traditional villages,unique architecture andfascinating culture. The cliffgrave sites and the elaboratefuneral ceremonies are certainly unique.6781234678Bali is often what people think of when you mention Indonesia -it summons up images of beautifulgolden and black sand beaches, riceterraces and Hindu festivals. There isa lot to discover here. A visit to Bali is easily combined with its quieterneighbour, Lombok, where you canclimb Mount Rinjani or snorkel in theGili Islands. From Flores, east of Bali,you can cruise to the islands of Rincaand Komodo to spot the Komododragon. Sulawesi is a flight awayfrom Bali and there are two mainreasons to visit this island, either thefuneral ceremonies that take placeduring our summer months in thecentre of the island, or the magnificentdiving off the north coast. Sumbaoffers something different again - aninsight into animist culture and atotally different way of life.Local girl, BaliBalinese girl selling batikUnderwater life, Moyo island5

BaliBalinese people are proud of having preservedtheir unique Hindu culture. This is reflected inday-to-day life, and can be seen in the numerousceremonies, festivals and magnificent temples andpalaces. The rise in tourism since artists beganflocking here in the 1960s has not changed localcustoms, and it is still the law today in Bali that no building can be higher than a palm tree.Bali's east coastThe lower slopes of Mount Agung descendsteeply to Bali's east coast. This natural barrier has protected the area from development andthis is where you'll find some of the island's mostdramatic tropical vistas. The volcano also meansthat rainfall is significantly less than on the southcoast, so for beach stays in January to March, it isan ideal choice. Trek or cycle along the slopes ofthe volcano and discover fascinating local villages,traditional temples and lavish religiouscelebrations. The east coast also offers some ofthe best snorkelling in the area, which can beenjoyed either directly off the coast or on boattrips. Candidasa is the main town in this area of Bali, and there are some lovely hotels in theregion, including the Amankila (see page 125).www.audleytravel.com/indonesia ?01993 838 110 ?Indonesia129ALILAMANGGIS, NEARCANDIDAA secluded, stylish resort on a tranquil beach set amid a coconut grove. The property is nestled between the sea and the majesticMount Agung. All rooms and suites face theocean and traditional Balinese architecture iscombined with modern amenities to create arelaxed environment in harmony with its natural surroundings.SPAVILLAGERESORTTEMBOK, BALILocated on Bali's tranquil northeast coast, thereare just 31 rooms, suites and villas at this sparesort, set on the ground or first floor, all with aspacious private terrace or balcony with views ofthe lush gardens or the sea. As the hotel is notsuited to young families, this is a relaxing havenfor those wishing to enjoy the resort's quietsetting as well as indulging in some of the bestspa therapies on the island. Audley guests receivea complimentary daily spa treatment, and one ofthe options is the signature starlit massage. Guestscan relax by the large infinity pool that overlooksthe warm waters of the Indian Ocean as itwashes onto the beach of black volcanic sand.Flower girls, Amankila near CandidasaBalinese temple offeringsSpa Village Resort Tembok, BaliMount AgungThe Hindu population of Bali align theirbeds toward Mount Agung and sleepwith their heads pointing in its directionas a sign of respect. The last majoreruption was in 1963, but the crateroften still smokes and billows. Bali'sMother Temple of Besakih is built highon the slopes and it was consideredmiraculous that lava flows from the 1963eruption missed the temple. Leavingyour hotel soon after midnight, themountain trail to the summit takes youthrough pine forest and fields ofsolidified lava before you reach thesummit and can watch the sun rise. One of the easiest volcano climbs inIndonesia; you will be back at your hotel in time for lunch. Alila Manggis, near Candidasa