As most Taschen design books, Living in Bali does not pretend to be a literary read, in fact the blurbs are positively sparse! It is unapologetic in its display of huge and fantastic images of the types of homes which typify the tropical asian paradise abode, and makes a point that the space and atmospheres of the designs and ambience tranfer all that is necessary. It would have been refreshing if they could have stuck to just the amazing residences, but one can't complain when the hotels, such as Begawan Giri are literally breathtaking and dreamy. I found myself gasping continuously and just gazing for an embarrassing length of time at each layout.There is enough juice in this book to inspire you to create you own personal paradise. Even if you live in nyc, as I do! Well, even if it is only in your dreams! While there is some overlapping with other asian style publications from Taschen, they are mostly all very refreshing, as they include new shots and more indepth voyeurism. The quality of the beautiful, simply stunning photographs are commendable, and the layout manages but to be expansive and detailed. In my mind, there is no book which better exemplifies what defines and justifies Bali as the jewel in the crown of tropical asian style. Owning this book, is like owning your personal ticket to a journey which shows you what is possible in life, that reality and heaven can meet! um, yes - I recommend this book.