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Bali
is truly an exotic island with a tapestry of emerald green rice
fields, shimmering Indian Ocean, volcanic mountains, tranquil lakes,
a fascinating and gentle culture and an abundance of smiles. The
island is famous for its hospitable people whose love for the arts,
music and dance embodies their philosophy of life and unique culture.
Although Indonesia is predominantly Moslem, the Balinese have preserved
their Hindu religion, which through centuries of influences has
evolved and diverged into what is now known as Hindu Dharma.
Bali is considered to be the property of the Gods, handed down
in a sacred trust from generation to generation. The Balinese express
their gratitude by devoting a large proportion of their time to
colourful religious observances; offerings, purification rites,
temple festivals, dances and other spectacular ceremonies. Thousands
of highly decorated temples can be found in the villages, towns,
on hills and mountains, beaches and dotted about the countryside.
Bali's landscape is as spectacular as it is varied. A range of
volcanic mountains in the centre of the island, stretching from
East to West, forms a backbone to fertile lowlands of nearly 5,500
square kilometres. Deep crater lakes seep an endless supply of life-giving
water that is channeled into irrigation of the rice fields from
whence comes the staple diet. This irrigation system is known as
'subak'.
Added to this paradisiacal setting is a sophisticated tourism infrastructure
that caters for the growing demands of the industry, and this is
Bali today..., a magical island of endless opportunities.
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