Lonely Planet Bali & Lombok

We have just returned from Bali (October 2000) and strongly recommend taking this LP with you. I have been a bit skeptical about the info of some LP's (Mexico-we hardly used it!) but in Bali whoever put this one together knew their stuff. FORGET THE PRICES MENTIONED, they've at least doubled for meals accomodation etc , but then so has the amount of rupee you'll get!! One interesting note. We took a taxi to the Temple of Gudang Kawi, an 11th century temple. LP justifibly raves about it. The only other tourists there we saw were holding a LP. Local tour operaters didn't seem to think tourists would be interested in it and must take them to more boring temples!(and believe you me, they get boring!)

I was so excited about my recent trip to Bali that I used 4 guidebooks. Lonely planet was one of the most useful - it pointed out the tourist traps as well as the great spots. Many of the recommendations are more suitable for backpackers than mid range travelers, but the maps are excellent and the coverage of the entire island is good. Bali will not be the most beautiful place you've visited (it is still a third world country)but it will be the most interesting,especially if you work at understanding the culture. I found the Moon Travel Guide,Bali Handbook, published out of Emeryville California to be the best Bali book. It had the most descriptive narrative (over 300 pages) of Bali's culture, history and customs. However, it is not widely distributed, but is worth searching out.

I have read Bali & Lombok guide and on visiting Candi Dasa(South East Bali)I fell in love with it. Candi Dasa has a by-law that forbids street hawkers - this alone sets it apart from other tourist areas(no hustle). Candi Dasa is a very beautiful village. There are many great restaurants and local sites. Taruna Beach Bungalows where I stayed is situated on the outskirts and is a superb place to stay. The cottage-style thatched bungalows have a view of the ocean. The bar offers a wonderful sea breeze, while I watched the dolphins leaping in and out of the waves - magical. Your book was a great help if I had not had it I would not have found Taruna Beach Bungalows or stayed in Candi Dasa and my holiday would not have been so superb. Don't travel without this guide folks! Thank you Lonely Planet

Do not step on the plane to fly to Bali without this guide