A paradise island often referred to as the 'Morning of the World' Bali offers any lucky visitor a haven of beautiful beaches, aquamarine seas and a patchwork of emerald rice terraces.

My Bali

Stunning. This was the overriding impression I got of the tropical paradise island that is Bali when I first visited as a backpacker. From the sheer majesty of the string of ancient volcanoes across the centre of the island, to the beautifully terraced rice fields which seem to flow down its hillsides, no other country I've visited has scenery quite so breathtaking.

Once known as the Spice Islands, Bali is one of the Republic of Indonesia's 13,000 Islands, and is located between Java to the West, and Lombok to the East. Rich in tradition, art and culture also form a large part of Bali's charm. Aside from year-round festivals, almost every day there are colourful processions in the village temples to celebrate weddings, births and funerals. When you arrive in Bali, no doubt your initial impression will be of just how friendly and gentle the smiling Balinese are. That's because on the paradise island of Bali, everything is a cause for celebration.

As for accommodation, take your pick from five-star resorts overlooking white sandy beaches or lush valleys, to friendly family-run hotels nestled in lush tropical gardens. One thing's for sure - you won't be disappointed. Whether you stay at Nusa Dua or Sanur in the south, Ubud in the centre or at one of Bali's northern black-sand beach resorts like Lovinia, you'll find the hospitality as warm as the water. Once you've soaked up some glorious Bali sunshine it's time to take a trip inland. This is where you - as I did - will truly fall in love with Bali. Whether you're in the audience at a temple ceremony, admiring one of its immense volcanoes or marvelling at the beautifully crafted rice fields wrapping themselves around hillsides, you can't help but be awed. Be sure to pay a visit to the home of Balinese culture, Ubud.

Packed with art galleries, craft shops selling batiks, hand-made furniture, woodcarvings and paintings, and a wide variety of restaurants to boot, this is the place where you can get a flavour for the real Bali. For the more active there's rafting down the Ayung river, world-class golf and surfing, as well as the option to hire a jeep and explore the island for yourself. Once thing's for sure, whatever you choose to do on your holiday, you'll never be far from a friendly face.