Bali Indonesia |
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Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali is a land of unending charm and beauty and is widely recognized as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire world. One of over 13,000 islands of Indonesia, this small island stands apart culturally as it is a pocket of Hindu religion and culture in a predominately Muslim country. Every aspect of Balinese life is suffused with religion, but the most visible signs are the tiny offerings of flowers, rice and salt in little bamboo leaf trays found in every Balinese house, restaurant, souvenir stall and airport check-in desk. The offerings are set out and sprinkled with holy water no less then three times a day. There are an estimated 20,000 temples on the island, each of which holds festivals at least twice a year. Balinese art, dance and music are also justly famous. As on Java, the gamelan orchestra and shadow puppet theater predominate. The varied landscape of hills, mountains, rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, lush rice terraces and barren volcanic hillsides provide a picturesque backdrop to the colorful and deeply spiritual culture. Eighty percent of international visitors to Indonesia chose the island of Bali as their sole destination.
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