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PLACES
Behaving Badly on the Island of Gods

If you’re ever in Bali, you might find people sitting sadly at the bottom of the mountains. In a bid to crack down on badly behaved tourists, Bali is considering a ban on mountain climbing.

The popular Indonesian island, known for its volcanic peaks & lush rice paddies, has decided to tackle the problem head-on, & proposed this ban as part of its efforts to address the issue of tourists behaving inappropriately, is taking an “equally bold stance” against unruly visitors.

Why this happened ?

1. Last year, there was quite a stir when a Russian influencer was actually deported from the country for a rather unusual reason—posing naked on an ancient sacred tree.

2. And just a few months ago, another tourist faced the consequences of his actions after a semi-nude photo of him on Mount Agung went viral, leading to his ousting from the area.

Hence the government is taking an equally bold stance against unruly visitors.

The ban would not only affect international tourists but also domestic tourists & even local residents. Coming as a response to incidents where foreign tourists have violated the sacred nature of the island's holy mountains, including public displays of nudity & accidents resulting in injuries or even deaths.

Governor Koster, issued a statement from Karangsem Regency in East Bali, revealed the details of the ban, which will cover all of Bali's 22 mountains. This move follows previous announcements by Governor Koster regarding a prospective ban on mountain activities earlier this year, making sure their volcanic adventures don't erupt into chaos.

• In response to mounting pressure from Bali's immigration office, the local government took action in June by publishing a guide for tourists (linked below in tips to ease your travels) who are eager to visit the island.

View From the Top - The ban on mountain climbing is seen as a significant step to address the issue of badly behaved tourists & to restore peace, tranquility, & perhaps a tad less drama to its breathtaking landscapes.

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PARADISE MEMEING

HAPENNING
Your Weekly Travel Roundup about the best of travels

Warnings

1. Beachgoers Beware - Tourists have been warned from visiting Stonehaven beach in scotland, as bodies of 330 seabirds were removed after a fresh wave of birdflu.

2. Scratch that, this isn’t graffiti - 17-year-old caught on camera, scratching her name on a Colosseum wall in Rome. Although the parents exclaim that “she’s just a kid, she wasn’t doing anything wrong”.

3. Another Virus - Millions of people are flocking to cruise terminals all over the world, and the CDC has tracked the highest number of Norovirus cases in over a decade on these cruise ships.

Attractions

👀 Clothes are optional - at Viva Jamaica, Rockabilly 7-day vacation event, is holding a clothing optional, all-inclusive luxury resort on the beaches of Jamaica. On Aug 16th-23rd at Hedonism II in Negril. The price of a room includes the following: All meals, drinks (alcohol & soft, excluding wine bar), coffee shop, use of beach loungers, use of resort facilities including Adult Playroom, pools, tennis courts, snorkeling, Live bands, daytime pool parties, in 1950’s style Rock n Roll, & R&B & more. Just make sure you’re 18 & over.

🏏 Hold on to your wallets - cricket fans, because the race for hotel rooms during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is turning into a bidding war! The excitement is off the charts, & so are the hotel prices in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Rumor has it that rates have shot up faster than a sixer, especially for the India-Pakistan showdown on October 15. So if you have plans to visit India, add watching a cricket match to your itinenary. You won’t regret it.

📢 Attention, Aspiring Supervillains! - Grab your supervillain guns, Universal Orlando Resort has revealed "Villain-Con: Minion Blast.” Brace yourselves for the ultimate challenge as you compete to become the newest member of the infamous Vicious 6, the diabolical crew from the blockbuster film, "Minions: Rise of Gru.” It's time to showcase your evil genius & prepare to conquer this electrifying experience like a true master of mayhem!

Deals

• Save 70% on your Next Hotel Stay, with this New Booking Platform.

• Flight-free summer holidays, Trains are cheaper than planes on these exciting European journeys.

• Get 120,000-point bonus on a $99-a-year Southwest business card.

• UK relaxes visa rules to attract foreign construction workers.

• Now work from anywhere while earning over $150,000 with these 5 remote jobs.

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MY TRAVEL BUCKETLIST
Swinging in
Nature's Mischievous Playground

📍 Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary,
Ubud, Bali, 🇮🇩 Indonesia
Over 16,000 Excellent Tripadvisor Reviews | See 360 degree video

As you step into this lush jungle paradise, you'll be enveloped by the vibrant hues of emerald green foliage and the earthy aroma of the forest floor. The playful chatter of mischievous monkeys echoes through the air, mingling with the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze. Take a moment to breathe in the sweet scent of tropical blooms that adorn the sanctuary, creating a tapestry of fragrances that transport you to another world. Get ready to embark on an immersive sensory adventure like no other, where nature's wonders & the lively presence of our furry friends converge in perfect harmony.

🎟️ Tickets - Approx. $11.70

Home to over 1,200 monkeys, this is a major tourist attraction in Ubud. The Sanctuary gets around 10-15 thousand visitors every month.

✦ Monkey Playtime: Get up close and personal with the resident monkeys! Watch as they swing from trees, playfully interact with each other, and maybe even give you a mischievous glance. Just be cautious with your belongings, as these curious critters love shiny objects. Also, if you're lucky, they might even pose for a selfie with you!

✦ Explore Ancient Temples: Discover the hidden gems within the sanctuary. Explore ancient temples that are not only beautiful but also hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. The Pura Dalem Agung is a must-visit, with its intricate stone carvings and fascinating history.

✦ Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll along the sanctuary's well-maintained pathways. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery, tall trees, and vibrant flora. The peaceful surroundings will transport you to a serene paradise away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

✦ Discover Hidden Waterfalls: Venture deeper into the sanctuary, and you may stumble upon hidden waterfalls cascading down rocks, creating a picturesque sight. Take a refreshing dip or simply admire the natural beauty of these hidden gems.

✦ Capture Breathtaking Photos: Every corner of the sanctuary offers a fantastic photo opportunity. From monkeys striking playful poses to ancient temples immersed in nature's embrace, you'll have plenty of Instagram-worthy shots to share with your friends and family.

Here are 2 spots that can complement your visit to the Monkey Forest:

• Ubud Art Market - Located in the heart of Ubud, the Ubud Art Market is a vibrant hub for arts, crafts, and local culture. After your visit to the monkey sanctuary, head over to this bustling market. Explore the maze of stalls offering a wide range of handmade goods such as textiles, traditional Balinese paintings, woodcarvings, jewelry, & more. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and don't forget to brush up on your bargaining skills!

• Tegalalang Rice Terrace - Just a short drive from Ubud, you'll find the awe-inspiring Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Step into a postcard-perfect landscape of tiered rice paddies surrounded by lush greenery. Take a leisurely stroll along the narrow paths, marvel at the intricate irrigation system, & soak in the breathtaking panoramic views. It's a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of Bali and capture some stunning photographs.

A Recent Review - It's a must-go place in Ubud where you can enjoy the surroundings while walking in the forest and have fun with monkeys. You can have paid help from the staff there to get fun pics with monkeys.

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EASE YOUR TRAVELS
Bali’s Do’s & Don’t For Tourists

🙏 Respect for Sacred Sites: When visiting Bali, it's crucial to show utmost respect for the island's sacred sites and cultural heritage. Avoid climbing or touching revered landmarks, such as the sacred tree in the village of Beng, to preserve their sanctity & significance to the local community.

❌ Say No to Single-Use Plastic: To support Bali's efforts in maintaining its natural beauty, travelers should be mindful of their plastic usage. Embrace sustainable practices by using reusable water bottles and shopping bags, reducing plastic waste, & supporting eco-friendly initiatives on the island.

☮️ Mindful Cultural Etiquette: Being sensitive to Balinese customs and traditions is essential. Familiarize yourself with local customs, such as dressing modestly when visiting temples, using the right hand for exchanges, and participating in ceremonies with reverence and humility. By understanding and respecting Bali's cultural norms, you can forge deeper connections with the local community & foster a harmonious travel experience.

This is a short excerpt. Read the full list of Do’s & Don’ts in Bali.

Want to add your own tips in here ?

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TRAVEL & BEYOND
Staying Connected with the world beyond your travels..

1. Las Vegas Police Investigates Tupac Shakur Killing.

2. Ukraine Attacks Vital Crimean Bridge Connecting to Russia.

3. Powerball reaches 1 Billion.

4. Novak Djokovic Dethroned by a 22 year old Carlos Alcaraz.

5. Sweltering heat wave nears record temperatures in Europe.

GUESS THE PLACE

This Country is Home to
Most Number of Islands 
in the World.

S - - - E -

Last week’s answer to:
This Continent is Home to the Most Number of National Parks in the world. - Australia

• Australia leads the list of countries with the most national parks home to over 600 national parks.

• In 2nd place is Thailand where there are 147 national parks.

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