Magical Bali

Lush and languid, Bali beguiles with its beach-side charms ... Lonely Planet

Mention Bali to someone. Anyone. Then watch the smile that washes over the face, the delight that shines in the eyes, and get ready to hear a favourite story unfold about that most magical of tropical vacation islands.

Mention Bali and several images are evoked: stunning sunset, miles of white sandy beach, dramatic mountains, rich culture, luxury living, hip night life, romantic nights.

And not the least of all - the warm, gentle, hospitable people.

Bali sits 8 degrees south of the equator. For most of the year, Bali is stiflingly hot and humid, or else it is rainy, hot and humid.

But during the months June-September, a different weather envelops the island. Onshore winds are cooled by the antipodean winter. And for just these few months, the days are breezily cool, the nights are sometimes chilly.

I was in Bali five times last year during those months. I did the Kuta Beach, Nusa Dua, and Seminyak scenes. But the most perfect holiday was at my girlfriend's home in the Bukit.

She has now put the home up for holiday rental. I have precious memories of the place. I love everything about this home with the stunning view nestled in the hills of the Bukit.

I want only good people to use this place. So that they too may experience the magic that is Bali.