Bali: The Ultimate Guide: To the World's Most Spectacular Tropical Island (Includes Pull-Out Map) (Periplus Adventure Guides)

Informative with lots of photos, maps and cultural information.

This is a good cut above the standard set by the usual travel guides. I use a lot of them, including Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, and the DK Eyewitness guides. The Periplus surpasses them all, though I have to add that I have not yet read these others for Bali. I will read at least one of them soon and will not fail to complete this comparison. As for Periplus, though it was published in 2005, the value is in the commentaries on Balinese history and culture, which will not have changed much. Chapters devoted to each aspect of these topics comprise the first quarter of the book, then followed by chapters devoted to the different regions of the island. Chapters are short and easily digestible; writing is very good and clear. Discussion of points of interest are also very well done. All parts of the book contain beautiful photos which, as a photographer, I appreciate very much. The maps are also good and sufficiently detailed. Since my own lodging is already arranged I did not pay any attention to the recommendations on accommodation and restaurants in the back of the book, and a traveler would want to consult more up-to-date info on these topics. But as an introduction to Balinese history, culture, and points of interest, Periplus does a superb job.

Haven't compared this to other guides, but found this one interesting and useful on our recent trip to Bali. However, the Periplus writers should have warned us to avoid Kintamani -- the worst spot on the island. Aggressive vendors, ugly viewing area, and leaving town we were subjected to a road-block shakedown (demanding a few bucks from each passing car) by the Indonesian police. To be fair, the scene in Bali is always changing, so I don't know if other guides would have warned us to stay away either. Please don't let this review sour you on a trip to Bali. It's a gorgeous place, and the Balinese people are remarkably friendly and honest. Just avoid Kintamani.

I think this is an exceptionally good quality guide book for those who travel to Bali not just to lie on a beach or surf, but also for its amazing cultural and historical heritage, where every village and temple have their own story. The closest I can compare it with is Eyewitness Guide on Bali, but there is definitely more information in this guide. There is also an abundance of beautific pictures but they don't take full pages so you get much more text not sacrificing the aesthetics. This is a book for people who want to feel in a new place not like stupid foreigners but rather informed observers, understanding their performances, rituals, lifestyle, etc. You'll know exactly what village or place you want to stay in and why.For practicalities you'll have to get Lonely Planet or Rough Guide though.

i have browsed through much of this book as i plan a honeymoon trip to Bali. I expected more of an insider's perspective with more of a personal feel into less well-known spots in Bali. what's a little-known great value accommodation? where is a crazy-good warung, or laid-back bar to seek out? seems like most of the offerings are standard resort recommendations. also, i'm personally not into the extended history lesson that opens almost every section. i'm sure it's interesting to some...but i'm interested primarily in information I can do something with, that will help me plan our trip. this book doesn't offer much of that above what you can find for free on the web. it would do fine as a primary source to learn about different areas of bali and get a general sense of what's there, i had just already done that on the web before ordering this book.

I bought this one after checking out every Bali Lombok guide book in our library. While others may be more detailed on accommodations and eating I find the detailed information on all localities, even tiny ones, really helpful. Plus the large included separate map of Bali is a real find. Detailed to the street level on many towns. There are also smaller maps embedded in the text for each location, as well as well-selected photographs. This one does not include Lombok (another island) that most guide books do include. It's a bit heavier than the other paperback guides I've read and I may get the kindle version to take on my trip in September.

I gave a try to the book after reading reviews. It was an excellent companion in our trip to Bali. Map and details are very convenient. You will learn all about Bali to make sure you dont miss a spot during your adventure. We had hotels the 3 first nights but last 5 nights just booking at last minute. I read book recommemdations but also check agoda website for more convenient prices. Book is excellent!!! Trip made in January 2017.

This is an excellent buy for someone who knows nothing about Bali aside from the famous name. Well-organized with a good index in the back. Also gives a brief history of the culture to help travelers understand why things are what they are. I especially LOVE the very helpful map enclosed in the back pocket of the book. Extremely helpful to get one's bearings, from one place to another. Since getting the book, I've loaned it to 3 friends already

Arrived on time. Book will be helpful for our upcoming trip to Bali

Map supposed to be included. no map - some pages glued together apart from that OK still I miss the map

Very good guide book and the maps detached so you can easily travel with them.

Good enough to get you around Bali