A Look Into the Region
On idyllic Bali, part of the Lesser Sundra Islands in the vast Indonesian archipelago, is this picturesque waterfall adorning our cover. One of Asia Pacific and the world's leading tourist destinations Bali is volcanic in origin with a dry, mountainous north coastal section and southern plain with a rainy monsoon season. The 2,171 mi2 island is home to 20,000 temples with most of the population following a form of the Hindu religion. The Dutch East India Company began trading with Bali in 1597 and the Dutch gained full control only in 1908. After World War II with the Japanese occupation over, Dutch rule was reestablished and lasted until Indonesia gained its independence in 1949. The Balinese are noted for their graceful dances, lively music, and superb handicrafts--silver and gold jewelry, painting and woodcarving.
|
