The Best of Bali

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Since the Bali bombings in 2005, this heavenly Indonesian island has made a remarkably speedy recovery as far as their tourist trade is concerned. For more information on what''s hot in Bali, read on:

Many people head to Bali for its glorious beaches. Whether it''s a slice of the surfing action you''re after, or simply a beautiful way to unwind, Bali will not disappoint. Kuta beach is famous across the whole of Indonesia for its excellent surfing conditions, and its status as something of a backpacker hub also makes is a great place for nightlife. Across on the eastern side of the southern peninsular, you will find Nusa Dua - a quiet haven offering unspoiled sands and long stretches of shallow water, perfect for taking a quick dip to cool down between sunbathing sessions.

Make time to stop off at Ubud, in the centre of the island. Ubud is home to many traditional forms of Balinese arts and crafts as well as being an important Indonesian hub for several important contemporary artists. The galleries here are beautifully laid out and feature a range of artwork, from old to new, from sculpture to painting to interpretive dance. This is also the place to indulge in a spot of shopping. With so many artisan boutiques to choose from, you''re sure to pick up the perfect souvenir.

Stick around in Ubud after dark and you will be inundated with invitations to enjoy one of many performances of traditional Balinese dance. Go for the performances held at the palace and, if you can, try to see the Ramayana Ballet, which gives a valuable glimpse into Balinese Hinduism - quite different from its Indian counterpart.

Bali is famous for its gorgeous sunsets and there is no better place to witness one than at Jimbaran Bay. Go early to get a place at one of the many specialist seafood joints along this seductive stretch of beach, order a plate of Bali''s finest fish dishes, pour yourself a Bintang (Bali''s easy-drinking local beer) and enjoy the view.

For a break from the beachscapes, head to Kintamani volcano for a new kind of scenery. If you are feeling adventurous you could even book yourself onto one of the sunrise tours, leaving at 4.30am to catch daybreak at around 7.30am. There are two ways to climb - on foot or by pony. Whichever you choose, give your holiday insurance company a quick call before you leave home to check whether this is included in your cover.

Take time to sample as many of Bali''s gastronomic delights as possible. Get your day off to a great start with a traditional Bali coffee - much earthier and smokier than European blends, but highly addictive. In the evening, be sure to try the Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Mee Goreng (fried noodles) in as many different varieties as possible. Visitors to Tuban Beach should stop off at Pantai restaurant and sample the Balinese fish, steamed in a banana leaf over the barbecue.

Whilst Bali is a major tourist hotspot, it retains a sense of village life and homeliness, largely thanks to the incredible warmth and generosity of its people. You will get pestered to buy things on the street, taxi drivers will offer their services to you at every available opportunity, but everything will be done with a smile, with utmost politeness and a quintessentially Balinese laidback approach to life.

Thanh Hamiel never travels without a good holiday insurance policy.

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