Simon St John

baligram.me — Baligram.me is a comprehensive travel guide website focusing on the natural wonders and cultural experiences of Bali, Lombok, and their surrounding islands. Baligram.me has been created by Simon St John, a travel guidebook author and travel writer. Simon has extensive experience traveling in Bali having made over 35 visits over the last 25 years to Bali. The site is operated by The Invermay Press, a division of Invermay Investments Pty. Ltd., an Australian company. The website aims to reveal the best locations and cultural experiences in Bali and Lombok, offering in-depth information about various destinations. The name "Baligram" celebrates the evolution of communication since the first telegram from Bali, emphasizing how Bali remains a unique cultural destination, despite its challenging modern context.

baligram.me — Simon St John's comprehensive guide, 'Bali's 21 Best Museums', offers an insightful exploration into Bali's rich museum scene, showcasing the island's artistic and cultural heritage. Published on Baligram.me, this article presents a meticulously curated list of must-visit museums, complete with addresses, contact details, and Google Maps links for easy navigation. Simon's guide serves as a valuable resource for anyone keen to delve deeper into Bali's diverse array of museums, each reflecting the unique art, culture, and religious practices of the region.

baligram.me — In 'When is the Best Time to Visit Bali for the Perfect Holiday?', Simon St John delves into the nuanced considerations of planning a trip to Bali. Published on Baligram.me, this article serves as an ultimate guide, offering travelers well-rounded insights on the best times to visit Bali, accounting for weather patterns, tourist seasons, and regional specialties. Simon shares his vast experience, garnered from over 35 visits to Bali over 25 years, as he navigates the intricacies of Bali's climate and cultural calendar, making this piece an invaluable resource for anyone planning a memorable Bali getaway.

baligram.me — Simon St John's article, 'An Introduction to Balinese Hinduism: Origins, Rituals, and Culture', provides an engaging and informative exploration of Balinese Hinduism's unique aspects. Published on Baligram.me, the piece dives into the religion's deep connection with nature, its rich cultural traditions, and how it differs from Indian Hinduism. Designed as a guide for outsiders, it offers a 'taste' of the religion's complexity, highlighting how each Balinese village adds its distinct flavor to these spiritual beliefs and practices. This article is an informative overview for anyone interested in understanding the intricate and evolving nature of Bali's Hindu religion and culture.

baligram.me — Simon St John’s 'Bali Travel Tips: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet' is an essential read for anyone planning a trip to Bali. Featured on Baligram.me, this article is a treasure trove of practical advice, covering everything from trip planning and exploration to staying healthy while traveling. Aimed at crafting the perfect holiday experience, Simon’s guide addresses key aspects of travel in Bali, making it an indispensable resource for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers looking to enrich their Balinese adventure.

baligram.me — Simon St John’s article, 'Where is Bali on a map? Where is Bali located in Indonesia?', provides a clear and concise guide to Bali's geographical location. Featured on Baligram.me, the piece addresses common queries about Bali’s position in Southeast Asia, within the Indonesian archipelago, and in relation to Australia. This informative piece is ideal for travelers and geography enthusiasts alike, offering a detailed perspective on where Bali sits on the world map, enhancing understanding of its cultural and environmental context.

baligram.me — Simon St John's 'The 12 Best Bali Beaches for Swimming' is an engaging and comprehensive guide for anyone seeking the ideal swimming spots in Bali. Featured on Baligram.me, this article not only lists the top 12 beaches for swimming in Bali, such as Sanur Beach and Bingin Beach, but also extends to five additional recommendations for various preferences like family-friendly or couple-suited beaches. Simon's article is a blend of insightful tips and practical information, including safety considerations and availability of food and drinks at beach areas, making it a valuable resource for travelers looking to enjoy Bali's pristine waters safely and comfortably.

baligram.me — Simon St John’s 'Bali Day Tours' is a thorough guide for travelers looking to discover and book the finest day trips and tours in Bali. Featured on Baligram.me, this collection of article provides an extensive selection of curated experiences, each chosen for their quality and reliability. Through partnerships with top-rated tour operators, Simon offers readers a hassle-free way to secure fair-priced, enjoyable tours, ensuring both the satisfaction of travelers and fair compensation for local drivers. The guide also reviews the top 20 Bali day trips on GetYourGuide, offering options for both group and private tours, as well as excursions to nearby islands like Lombok and the Nusa islands, catering to a variety of preferences and interests. This resource is a go-to for anyone seeking to enrich their Bali experience with well-selected, memorable tours.

baligram.me — Simon St John's in-depth article, 'What is Bali Belly? A Guide to Causes, Symptoms & Treatment,' offers crucial insights for travelers to Bali. Featured on Baligram.me, this comprehensive guide addresses the common ailment known as Bali Belly, a term for the array of symptoms related to gastrointestinal distress commonly experienced by travelers. Simon explores the causes of Bali Belly, ranging from sanitation issues to specific foods that may trigger symptoms, such as contaminated water, raw or undercooked seafood, and certain street foods. He provides practical advice on foods to avoid and the safest options to consume in Bali. The article also sheds light on the symptoms of Bali Belly, varying from mild discomfort to severe cases that may require medical attention. Simon further outlines a 6-step action plan to address Bali Belly, emphasizing the importance of hydration, seeking medical advice, and adopting safe food and water practices. This guide serves as an essential resource for travelers aiming to enjoy their time in Bali while staying healthy and informed.