To be or not to Bali

If you'd like to go to Bali for the big waves and party at Kuta, no need to read further.
But if you'd like a cultural experience and the peace and quiet that the island offers, I'd suggest you get off the beaten track.

I'm Brazilian and used to beaches, so the beaches in Bali have not impressed me by their natural beauty. However, I've been to the island three times and would happily go back another many times.
What I love in Bali is the people, the smile, the culture, and still the feel of lost paradise. There is so much more to be seen in the island than the degrading alleys and neons of Kuta. Go inland, stay in a cheaper hotel, get the local taxi, talk to people! Who, by the way, speak English really well.

The first time I went to Bali was one year after the bombings, and the island was still deserted by tourists, except a couple brave Japanese tourists, on "Golden Week" holidays. I'm happy to see that now the economy is back to its full strength and locals are taking the initiative to start their own businesses again.

One of them is Kung Saga. I'd really recommend using him for a tour around Ubud area. He has his own car, speaks very well English, treats you with the typical Balinese respect and beautiful smile, and on top of it all, is a real businessman. He has leaflets and videos that will show you his tours - be it walks around rice paddies or rafting down a river. He's from the region and knows it well (now Bali is receiving more and more workers from the other Indonesian islands, so it is always good to check if you're travelling with a local guide). He's proud of his village and will take you there if you'd like to see the rapids. And, he even has email, but I'd still recommend calling you'd like a quick response.
His contacts are: Kung Saga W., Tel. +62 361 791 2146. kungsaga@yahoo.com

Whether it is with Kung or another driver, don't miss the opportunity to visit the real Bali. And after you feel at ease, loose your guide and just take a walk. I promise you that you won't forget.