Bali Tourism

von Arthur Asa Berger

The island of Bali has long been characterized in the West as the last &quote;paradise&quote; on earth, but there is far more to this small Indonesian province. Bali Tourism presents an enlightening ethnographic study of some of the most important icons-for tourists and locals alike-in Balinese culture and society and explores the growth of this island as an &quote;exotic&quote; vacation destination. In addition, it offers a firsthand look at many aspects of daily life, a semiotic analysis of its dominant cultural symbols, and insights into tourists' perceptions of Bali. A thirty page photo section offers a unique glimpse at this remarkable island. Through a distinctive use of cultural analysis and psychoanalytic modes of interpretation, Bali Tourism offers an in-depth study of Balinese tourism, society, and character. This handy, easy-to-read text is an essential overview of what the island has to offer tourists and looks at the exciting possibilities-and the potential pitfalls-of visiting this extraordinary land. The book paints a vivid portrait of this country's hidden gems and popular tourist destinations, exploring the ways visitors see Bali-and how the Balinese see visitors-as well as the promise and problems Bali faces in developing its tourism industry. Bali Tourism is an ideal book to read before visiting Bali yourself-or recommending/planning a trip for others. The fresh insights it presents will help make any trip to the region more rewarding for the traveler. It is also a unique scholarly resource, complete with informative tables, references, and a bibliography, for academics and students at all levels of tourism studies.