The exotic island of Bali is situated in the Pacific ocean. The economy of Bali thrives basically on tourism.
Bali has the same importance for Asia as Hawaii islands have to the United States. Bali was earlier a Dutch colony and became an important destination for cruise ships in 1920s. The word of its beauty spread when cruise ships and other tourists started pouring in to Bali.

Bali's culture is an interesting contrast to the main island of Java. The ethnic Balinese people are for the most part Hindu. The wave of Islam that swept through much of Indonesia bypassed Bali. While the Hinduism they practice is fundamentally the same as in India, the customs and daily practices are unique.

The Hindu rites and ceremonies practiced in Bali are centered on the concept of reincarnation. This is prominently reflected in their temple styles, types of ceremonial offerings, and the various rites, rituals, and festivals.

Balinese Hinduism is actually a blend of indigenous customs with Buddhist and Hindu influences with that reached the islands over a period of centuries, although there is only a small number of practicing Buddhists on Bali today. The Balinese society is rigidly organized according to the Hindu caste system, and people's names reflect their place in that system.

Till World War II, Bali was a Dutch colony. Then the Japanese took over the island. Finally Indonesia gained independence in 1949. Before this period Bali was ruled by the island of Java and its own rulers as well. Bali has a very ancient history. People lived here even in prehistoric times. Since it is such an old culture, there is a mix and plethora of customs and traditions which the people have imbibed over the centuries and still follow.

After independence, the communist took charge of the affairs of the islands and progress was little or slow.
It was in 1965 that General Suharto came to power and placed the islands on the path to progress. He initiated a long movement against the communists that resulted in the killing of about 50,000 people. It was during his rule that the country progressed and the tourisms industry really grew. The economy of Bali revolves around agriculture and tourism.

Bali is a place of ancient traditions and Hindu culture.
Despite all the cultural mixes and the interruptions it has had over the years, Bali is still remains a unique and traditional culture. Despite the fact that many traditional communities were uprooted during the Suharto regime, the population of Bali is still bathed in tradition and follows its ancient cultural practices. The Balinese culture has survived all the shocks and waves of change experienced by its neighbors, the people still do not take their traditions and culture for granted. They honor these traditions every day and there are many organizations that are working towards preserving these cultural traditions for the future.

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