Bali, that almost mystical island, so far away from our western world in the warm seas around Indonesia.

Those famous Wayang Dolls conjure up a dark world of secret rituals and forbidden practices, but modern Bali is hospitable and friendly, with smiling people everywhere. Some areas close to the airport are by now rather over-exploited but if you take the time to go a little off-road, so to speak, and make Ubud your base, you'll find peace in splendid settings, precious views across valleys and rice paddies, a tolerant and beautiful population and delicious food.

There are enough areas to keep you coming back to Bali for many years and I am planning to go back there in November 2014. Hope to see you there!

JACK TAYLOR BOOKS OFFER EASY TO READ STORIES AND LOT OF ORIGINAL PHOTOS.