Bali, the most westerly of the Lesser Sunda Islands, is probably the best known island in the Indonesian Archipelago as far as tourists are concerned. Its unique character has fascinated Bali visitors since time immemorial. Here, in contrast to the rest of Indonesia, Hinduism has maintained its position vis-a-vis Islam. A luxuriant tropical vegetation, artistically arranged rice terraces, numerous shrines, rich arts and crafts, colorful markets and the famous temple dances exert a magical attraction throughout the year on holiday makers from all over the world.