Indonesia: Java and Bali, tailor-made including beach holiday

Java and Bali are among those places that still hold the title of paradises on earth. These two Indonesian islands are home to an incomparable natural wealth and a legacy of monuments on a par with the greatest civilisations. The first stage of this trip takes place in Java, the most populous island in the world with more than 145 million inhabitants. The country's main cities, such as the bustling capital Jakarta, picturesque Yogyakarta and charming Surabaya, are located here. As are some of its most important treasures, such as Borobudur, the largest Buddhist monument in the world, a World Heritage Site and the most visited tourist attraction in Indonesia; or Prambanan, a group of more than 200 Hindu temples also listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. What's more, the island is dotted with imposing and brooding volcanoes, such as Kawah Ijen, where you can visit its sulphur mine and inland lake. There are also green rice paddies and lush forests and jungles, an endless tropical garden on the shores of the azure blue sea. The second part of the trip is just as fascinating, as the island of Bali is another outstanding tourist destination. Known for its fine arts, including dance, sculpture and painting, the island's main cities are the capital, Denpasar, and the former colonial capital of Singaraja in the north. The town of Ubud is the cultural centre of Bali, with its art market, museums and galleries, and its main tourist attractions are the spectacular picture-postcard beaches at Jimbaran, Kuta and Sanur. Two paradisiacal islands make for an unforgettable trip.