Bali is an Indonesian island positioned in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, laying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. The island is home to a diverse population of around 4 million people, including the indigenous Balinese people, as well as immigrants from other parts of Indonesia and foreign countries.

Bali has a rich and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back at late 2000 BC. Over the centuries, the island has been ruled by various Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms, as well as Islamic sultanates. The Balinese people have developed their own unique culture, religion, and art forms, drawing on a variety of influences from across the region.

In the 16th century, Bali was conquered by the Majapahit Empire of Java, which introduced Hinduism to the island. This period saw the development of Bali’s distinctive temple architecture and religious practices, including the use of gamelan music and dance in worship ceremonies.

In the 19th century, Bali became part of the Dutch colonial empire, which brought modern infrastructure and development to the island. However, this period also saw the suppression of Balinese culture and religion, as the Dutch authorities sought to impose their own Western values and Christianity.

In the 20th century, Bali played an important role in the struggle for Indonesian independence, with many Balinese people taking part in the nationalist movement. After independence was achieved in 1945, Bali became part of the new Indonesian republic, and the island has since undergone rapid economic development and tourism growth.

Today, Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rice paddies, and vibrant culture, drawing millions of visitors around the world each year. The Balinese people continue to maintain their rich cultural traditions, including elaborate religious festivals, intricate arts and crafts, and unique culinary traditions.

Sure, here are 23 fun and best things to do in Bali.

1. Visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces: These stunning rice terraces located in Ubud are a must-visit for anyone interested in seeing some of Bali’s beautiful countryside.
2. Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: This monkey sanctuary in Ubud is home to over 600 long-tailed macaques and is a fun place to visit for animal lovers.
3. Visit Tanah Lot Temple: This iconic temple is positioned on a rocky outcropping on the coast of Bali and is a popular spot for watching sunsets.
4. Go white water sport on the Ayung River: For thrill-seekers, white water rafting on the Ayung River is a fun way to experience Bali’s natural beauty.
5. Attend a traditional Balinese dance performance: Bali is famous for its traditional dance performances, which are a great way to experience the island’s culture.
6. Visit the Bali Bird Park: This park is home to over 1,000 birds from around the world and is a fun place to visit for families.
7. Climb Mount Batur: This active volcano is a popular spot for hiking and watching the sunrise.
8. Visit the Goa Gajah Temple: This 9th-century temple is known for its intricate producing and is a must-visit for history buffs.
9. Go surfing in Kuta: Kuta Beach is one of Bali’s most popular surf spots and is a fun place to catch some waves.
10. Visit the Tirta Empul Temple: This temple is famous for its holy spring water, which is said to have healing properties.
11. Visit the Nusa Dua Beach: This beach is known for its calm waters and is a great place for swimming and sunbathing.
12. Go scuba diving or snorkeling in Amed: Amed is a small fishing village on the east coast of Bali and is a great place to go diving or snorkeling.
13. Take a Balinese cooking class: Bali is best known for its delicious cuisine, and taking a cooking class is a fun way to acquire knowledge about local ingredients and cooking techniques.
14. Visit the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: This beautiful temple is located on a lake and is a popular spot for taking photos.
15. Visit the Uluwatu Temple: This cliff-top temple is known for its extraodinary views of the ocean and is a popular spot for watching sunsets.
16. Go on a Bali swing: These popular swings are found in various locations around Bali and provide a unique way to take in the island’s scenery.
17. Visit the Pura Luhur Batukaru Temple: This temple is located on the slopes of Mount Batukaru and is known for its peaceful atmosphere.
18. Visit the Bali Zoo: This zoo is home to over 350 animals and is a fun place to visit for families.
19. Take a Balinese massage: Bali is known for its spa culture, and getting a traditional Balinese massage is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
20. Visit the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: These UNESCO-listed rice terraces are a stunning example of Bali’s agricultural heritage.
21. Visit the Taman Ayun Temple: This temple is known for its beautiful gardens and is a great place for a leisurely stroll.
22. Go on a dolphin-watching tour: Lovina Beach is a popular spot for dolphin-watching tours, which provide a unique way to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
23. Visit the Tegenungan Waterfall: This waterfall is located just outside of Ubud and is a popular spot for swimming and taking photos.

Here are 10 places similar to Bali and their locations and descriptions:

1. Phuket, Thailand: Located in southern Thailand, Phuket is a popular destination for its beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions. It offers a similar tropical atmosphere and range of activities to Bali.
2. Boracay, Philippines: This small island in the Philippines is known as the white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wide range of water sports activities. It has a similar laid-back atmosphere to Bali and is a popular destination for tourists.
3. Langkawi, Malaysia: Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of northwestern Malaysia. The islands are totally known for their beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and natural attractions, which make it similar to Bali.
4. Koh Samui, Thailand: This island in the Gulf of Thailand is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and luxury resorts. It offers a similar tropical island atmosphere to Bali.
5. Goa, India: Located on the western coast of India, Goa is a popular beach destination known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and unique mix of Indian and Portuguese cultures. It has a similar beach and cultural vibe to Bali.
6. Zanzibar, Tanzania: Located off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar is a group of islands known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and exotic spices. It offers a similar beach paradise vibe to Bali.
7. Hoi An, Vietnam: This ancient port town in central Vietnam is known for its charming architecture, lantern-lit streets, and cultural attractions. It has a similar cultural and historical feel to Bali.
8. Cancun, Mexico: This popular beach destination in Mexico is known for its all-inclusive resorts, nightlife, and range of water sports activities. It offers a similar beach vacation atmosphere to Bali.
9. Puerto Rico, USA: Located in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is known for its stunning beaches, historic forts, and vibrant culture. It has a similar tropical vibe to Bali.
10. Mauritius: This island nation located in the Indian Ocean is known for its luxury resorts, turquoise waters, and stunning coral reefs. It offers a similar tropical island paradise vibe to Bali.