There are so many hotels in Bali (over 5,000 rooms, with the number doubling and perhaps tripling in the next three years), that to even begin to mention all would be difficult. Instead, what follows is a highly personal list of some of the best places to stay. The hotels vary in price and style. Some are South Sea palaces, updates versions of the tropical mansions that were backdrops to the tales of Somerset Maugham; others are simply clean, friendly places for the traveller on a low budget. The very cheapest hotels, known as kelas kambing (goat class), have not been included; it is best to check them out on one's own. During July and August, and Cristmast and Easter, reservations with deposits are absolutely essential in Sanur, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Ubud and Candi Dasa. Rates per night have been put into five categories:

• Under $50
• $50 - $99
• $100 - $149
• $150 - $199
• Over $200

Hotels are listed in order of preference within the separate headings and area (see map). Deluxe hotels offer recreational facilities, such as tennis courts, swimming pools, travel services, conference rooms, shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs on the premises. Rooms meet an international standard of modern comfort and amenities. First-class hotels are small to medium-sized with high-quality accommodation, attractive grounds and some resort facilities. Rooms almost always have air conditioning, hot and cold water and tub showers in garden bathrooms. Most rooms have radios and telephones. Moderate accommodation has comfortable rooms, sometimes with air conditioning, but more typically with fans. Some places have hot water-which is not particularly necessary in Bali's tropical climate-and tub showers; others, out of the main resort.

Map of Bali