Bali is part of the largest island kingdom in the world, the State of Indonesia.

Denpasar has been the capital of Bali since 1946 and was once the seat of the homonymous principality of Badung. The small village situated around the Pemecutan Raja Palace, soon developed into a bustling city. The city’s oldest Hindu temple dates from the fourteenth century and was established by the envoy of the Majapahit Empire.

At the entrance to the Monkey Forest near the town of Ubud, the famous saint monkeys welcome those who come here. The cheeky little macaques are thought to be descendants of mythical monkey king, Hanoman.

Gamelan music and Legong dance are part of Bali’s culture. The movement of the body, and especially the position of the head, the play of the eyes and various facial expressions, each form the traditional elements of the dance.

A journey to the centre of the island, from Sebali to Keliki, is a great experience and one not to be missed. Uphill through small villages and lush greenery, past banana trees and paddy fields, typical Balinese country life.

On the main island, in Kuta, are wonderfully spacious, white sandy beaches and the warm Indian Ocean, often with waves several metres high. Here, relaxation is the order of the day and the waves attract surfers from all over the world.

Bali is truly the Island of the Gods, with fantastic scenery, fascinating culture and exclusive hotels.