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Bali high

By Victoria Barker, my paper | Thu, Nov 5 2009

Bali has become known as an adventure haven for those in search of excitement.

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[Top photo: Surfers can challenge themselves at the beaches of Kuta, Sanur, Legian and Nusa Dua.]

FOR account manager and thrill-seeker Jason Boon, Bali is the destination of choice for sports and adventure.

The 32-year-old Malaysian has visited the southern Indonesian island seven times since 2006 to indulge in surfing, white-water rafting and scuba- diving.

However, the avid sportsman’s favourite activity is to para-glide over spectacular mountainous locations such as Timbis, Candidasa and Mount Batur.

Mr Boon, who has been living in Singapore for 17 years, told my paper: “There are so many beautiful sites. Plus, it’s a great place to learn to para-glide. It’s also safe and the people are very friendly.

Thrill-seeker Jason Boon soars over the
lush mountains of Timbis on Bali.

“It helps that Bali is very accessible from Singapore and perfect for short trips that do not require having to take too many days off work.”

Indeed, Indonesia’s predominantly Hindu island has become known as an adventure haven for those in search of excitement.

The beaches of Kuta, Sanur, Legian and Nusa Dua, in particular, are famous for their waves.

Brand executive Maurice Quek’s first trip to Bali in 2006 left him wanting more.

The 24-year-old said: “The whole experience was indescribable. Legian beach, in particular, has waves that beginner to expert surfers can enjoy.”

But he has a word of advice for those planning to indulge in the sun and surf: “Pace yourself, because there is so much to take in that you could easily be overwhelmed.”

A spokesman for the Visit Indonesia Tourist Office recommends visiting during the peak season of April to October, when solid swells hit the reefs around Uluwatu and Nusa Dua, delivering the world-class waves that have made Bali a popular international surfing mecca.

As for those who prefer to get deeper into the Indian Ocean, dive sites in Bali are world- renowned.

“There are several spots around the island, from shallow, sandy areas to steep drop-offs. There are even shipwrecks to discover,” said the spokesman.

Whichever activity you choose to pursue, Mr Boon suggests doing your homework before setting off.

“Don’t stick to the typical tourist trail. Once you’re there, mingle and make friends with people who know their way around,” he said.

“Bali simply has lots to offer.”

Thrills and Spills

SCUBA DIVING
TULAMBEN

Located about 100km north-east of Sanur, this site boasts a marvellous World War II shipwreck, the USS Liberty.

MANJANGEN
This small island at the far north-western tip of Bali has a national underwater park with thriving marine life and vast open waters.

SURFING
THE DREAM LAND

Its beautiful panoramas and killer waves are just 20km from Denpasar town or 20 minutes from the airport.

KUTA BEACH
All soft white sands and palm trees, Kuta Beach is one of Bali’s oldest surfing spots. There are plenty of places to stay in, where you can eat, drink and be merry.

WHITE-WATER RAFTING
AYUNG RIVER
Indonesia offers some of the best rapids in the world for rafting, and the Ayung River is said to boast some of Bali’s most stunning scenery.

HOW TO GET THERE
Are you a thrill-seeker who wishes to try out all that Bali has to offer?
Garuda Indonesia is offering 3D2N packages to Bali. Stay at the Alila Manggis or Ubud hotels and get a complimentary yoga or tai chi session. Prices range from $328 to $1,068.
Alternatively, enjoy a free round of 18-hole golf or a three-hour spa session at Le Meridien Nirwana Golf & Spa Resort. Prices range from $318 to $888.
Garuda flies to Bali once a day. Return fares start from $250 before taxes and service fees.
For more information, visit the Garuda website at www.garudaindonesia.com.sg, call 6250-2888 or send an e-mail to sin-reservation@garudaindonesia.
com.sg to make a reservation.

vbarker@sph.com.sg