For many it's the simple pleasure of a great value beach break but there’s so much more to the island. Away from the coast you’ll find jungle-draped volcanoes and shimmering crater lakes, emerald rice paddies, glorious temples and age-old walled villages. Balinese culture is also fascinating; rich in music, theatre and artistry and the Balinese people are famously warm, welcoming and generous.

The southern beach resorts offer world class accommodation, fantastic shopping and an extensive variety of dining and entertainment opportunities. Nusa Dua and Jimbaran Bay are popular choice with white sand beaches, manicured gardens and sparkling clear waters. Trendy Seminyak is the place to see and be seen, whilst relaxed Sanur is great for families. Candi Dasa, on the east coast, offers peace and tranquillity and some spectacularly rugged scenery. Tembok, on the north coast, is a world away from the bustling resorts of the south with palm-fringed black sand beaches set against a backdrop of volcanic peaks.

Just a short flight or ferry from Bali, the island of Lombok is much quieter than its more famous neighbour and is an ideal destination for anyone wanting to escape the stresses of modern day life. You’ll still find long stretches of empty beaches and spectacular rural landscapes which offer an insight into the island’s traditional way of life. Just off the coast, the tiny Gili Islands are surrounded by azure blue waters and are renowned for excellent snorkelling and diving.

You simply cannot miss Ubud. Just over an hour from the southern beaches, the cultural heart of Bali feels a world away. Famous for crafts, there are scores of shops selling antiques, woodcarvings, textiles, paintings and jewellery as well as some fabulous art galleries. There are temples and palaces to explore and the town is surrounded by dramatic rice paddies and towering coconut trees. It’s a magical place and I’d recommend spending at least a few nights here. North-east of Ubud lies the stunning temple complex of Besakih. The north boasts dramatic black sand beaches, soaring volcanoes and sleepy villages. In the central highlands the lakeside temple of Pura Ulun Danu will just take your breath away.

If it's warm weather you're after, Bali fits the bill by staying around 30 degrees year round. Traditional rainy season runs between December and March with the driest times of year April to September. 

This makes Bali one of the strongest summer destinations for UK travellers. Don't hesitate, go.