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What Happens in Bali
It is known as the Island of Gods and with more than four million tourists, both rich and budget-conscious, visiting Bali each year, it is inevitable that things will go wrong. Drugs, surfing, murder, love, death on the roads, hangovers, bombs, relaxation ... they are all part of the cocktail of life in a land of looming volcanoes, hillside rice paddies and idyllic beaches. What Happens in Bali covers many topical and up-to-date stories including Schapelle Corby, the Bali Nine, English grandmother Lindsay Sandiford, who remains in Bali on death row, and recently jailed lovers Sarah Connor and David Taylor. From ancient wars to modern day dramas, this is what happens in Bali.
204 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2017
8 people want to read
About the author
Richard Shears
28 books4 followersRichard Shears is an Australian journalist who has covered stories all over the world. His published books encompass fiction, true crime and general nonfiction.
He is the Australian and South East Asian correspondent for the London' respected 'Daily Mail' newspaper.
NB: The exact date of birth is not known so 1 January has been used to complete the entry above.
He is the Australian and South East Asian correspondent for the London' respected 'Daily Mail' newspaper.
NB: The exact date of birth is not known so 1 January has been used to complete the entry above.
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
January 20, 2024
"What Happens in Bali" by Richard Shears offers readers a firsthand account of the exotic and often wild experiences of tourists in Bali, exploring the cultural clashes, hedonistic adventures, and unexpected challenges faced by those seeking paradise on the Indonesian island. While the book provides an engaging glimpse into the highs and lows of Bali's tourism scene, it may not be everyone's cup of tea.
Shears' writing style is lively and immersive, transporting readers to the vibrant landscapes and bustling streets of Bali. The author effectively captures the allure of the island and the diverse cast of characters drawn to its beauty. The narrative unfolds as a series of anecdotes and personal accounts, creating a mosaic of the various escapades and misadventures that can unfold in Bali.
The book is successful in highlighting the clash between the traditional Balinese culture and the often hedonistic pursuits of tourists. Shears skillfully weaves in cultural insights, showcasing the complexities and contradictions that arise when Western ideals meet Balinese traditions. The exploration of the party culture, romantic entanglements, and the impact of tourism on the local community adds depth to the narrative.
However, the book's emphasis on sensational and sometimes salacious stories might not appeal to readers seeking a more nuanced or analytical exploration of Bali's tourism industry. The focus on the wild and outrageous aspects of tourist behavior could be seen as reinforcing stereotypes rather than providing a comprehensive understanding of the island's complexities.
Additionally, some readers may find the narrative lacking a cohesive structure, as the book reads more like a collection of loosely connected stories rather than a cohesive exploration of Bali's tourism dynamics. While this approach contributes to the book's anecdotal charm, it may leave some readers wanting a more organized and focused narrative.
In summary, "What Happens in Bali" by Richard Shears is an entertaining and lively account of the unpredictable world of tourism on the Indonesian island. It offers an engaging read for those interested in travel narratives and cultural clashes, but readers should be prepared for a more anecdotal and sensationalized approach rather than an in-depth analysis of Bali's complex cultural and tourism landscape.
Shears' writing style is lively and immersive, transporting readers to the vibrant landscapes and bustling streets of Bali. The author effectively captures the allure of the island and the diverse cast of characters drawn to its beauty. The narrative unfolds as a series of anecdotes and personal accounts, creating a mosaic of the various escapades and misadventures that can unfold in Bali.
The book is successful in highlighting the clash between the traditional Balinese culture and the often hedonistic pursuits of tourists. Shears skillfully weaves in cultural insights, showcasing the complexities and contradictions that arise when Western ideals meet Balinese traditions. The exploration of the party culture, romantic entanglements, and the impact of tourism on the local community adds depth to the narrative.
However, the book's emphasis on sensational and sometimes salacious stories might not appeal to readers seeking a more nuanced or analytical exploration of Bali's tourism industry. The focus on the wild and outrageous aspects of tourist behavior could be seen as reinforcing stereotypes rather than providing a comprehensive understanding of the island's complexities.
Additionally, some readers may find the narrative lacking a cohesive structure, as the book reads more like a collection of loosely connected stories rather than a cohesive exploration of Bali's tourism dynamics. While this approach contributes to the book's anecdotal charm, it may leave some readers wanting a more organized and focused narrative.
In summary, "What Happens in Bali" by Richard Shears is an entertaining and lively account of the unpredictable world of tourism on the Indonesian island. It offers an engaging read for those interested in travel narratives and cultural clashes, but readers should be prepared for a more anecdotal and sensationalized approach rather than an in-depth analysis of Bali's complex cultural and tourism landscape.
Displaying 1 of 1 review