A Few Things You Should Bring to Bali

by Barrie | February 18th, 2011   Tweet

Bali is a crazy strange place for first-time arrivals and besides being overwhelming [that includes starting at the airport] it is a full-on experience. For those of us who have years under-our-belts it’s a bit of the ‘ol ho-hum usual. There are several things new travellers to Bali could bring with them that would be helpful during their stay on the island.

Of course good common sense and sometimes logic helps but of course it is a matter of letting-go and stop ‘thinking western’ and expecting everything to be just like home because it just isn’t. If you can let yourself go and immerse yourself into the fascinating culture then an awesome experience awaits you. However, it is the material things that help when you visit Bali (besides money!].

First Aid Kit: Without a doubt the first thing you should throw into your suitcase or backpack, and, make sure it is up-to-date. Suggested medications to include in your first aid kit are analgesics (Tylenol, ASA, codeine), antimalarials (discuss with medical professional), antidiarrheal (Imodium, Pepto-Bismol); antibiotic such as Cipro, Zithromax), rehydration salts (Gastrolyte), antihistamine (Benadryl), sunscreen and the usual prescription and non-prescription medications used regularly. Others to be included in your kit should bandaids, tensor bandage, tweezers, Swiss Army knife, insect repellent. Or, if you don’t want to make up your own then simply buy one from any Red Cross store.

Guidebook and Balinese / Indonesian Phrase Book: There is a literal plethora of these in any bookshop in the city where you live. It’s best to purchase these at home as they can be expensive in Indonesia. Before you leave for Bali, browse through the guidebook and obtain some idea of the paces you want to visit. Learn from the phrasebook even if it’s only the usual greetings etc. A few words of the local lingo will unlock many social encounters.

As far as guidebooks are concerned, I prefer using Rough Guides because they are very nuts & bolts oriented, listing guest houses, places to eat, festivals and good all round information.

International Driving Licence: It is very true that your mode of transportation is one of the main factors that will affect your trip to Bali. So, if you fancy taking on the crazed road skills of the local drivers and the terrain then having an International Driving Licence will allow you to rent cars and motorbikes. Make sure to obtain insurance when you rent the mode of transport you choose.

Laptop or Notebook: I wouldn’t leave home without mine! Besides being handy for detailing the events of the day, they are also a great for downloading all your images from your digital camera. Most internet cafes on the tourist strip accommodate for laptop use. The size is up to you but a 15” like the one I use is excellent. They are also for recording all the special people you meet and names of cool places you encounter.

Ear plugs: These are easily purchased at any chemist or camping store. The reason I have added earplugs to this list is because they are useful if you wind up in a hotel on a busy street. Also, most of the 5 star hotels have ‘theme nights’ and these can be quite rowdy through until the early hours.

A Few Things to Do in Ubud

by Barrie | February 17th, 2011   Tweet

Ubud is peaceful. It is a place where you could spend your entire holiday in Bali and it is also a great place to base yourself for exploring the rest of the island. There is so much of interest on offer in Ubud and the surrounding areas. Being a relatively tranquil place, it is a haven for tourists, lovers of art and a delightful area to spend a whole day. The centre of town is Jalan Raya Ubud and it is along this stretch of road where you can find some fabulous restaurants and warungs, and, great places to shop.

One of my favourite places in the surrounding area is the village of Petulu. Set in one of the most scenic areas on the island and directly north-east of Ubud, the village of Petulu is famed for its artists, dancers and carvers of wood and stone. No one really knows why the Herons, who first began roosting there in 1966, chose Petulu as their nesting site. Ask any of the elders in the village and they will tell you that the birds are in fact reincarnations of the tens of thousands of men and women who died during the civil unrest throughout Bali in 1966.

There are so many places to visit and here are a few things you could do:

1. Take time to check out a few of the great museums – Neka, ARMA, Seniwati – and learn about traditional Balinese art.

2. Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest but be aware that the monkeys are not as friendly as their relatives in the Sangeh Monkey Forest.

3. Take a dawn rice paddy hike along one of the many routes on the outskirts of town. If you like cycling then take one of the many tours available in the area.

4. Sample the fine food available in places such as Casa Luna, Ary’s Warung and Murni’s Warung. My favourite is Café Wayan!

5. Indulge in adventure white water rafting with one of the many reputable companies such as SOBEK in Sayan.

6. Watch an evening dance performance at the Ubud Palace on Jl. Raya Ubud.

7. A visit to Pasar Ubud traditional market is a must-see and an ideal place to find that cool souvenir that might have eluded you.

8. Do visit Museum Blanco. This magical place will astound your cultural senses.

9. Visit one of the many temples in the area of Ubud.

10. Take a walk to Nyuhkuning and see some of the most beautiful rice terraces on the island.

Exploring the Bukit Peninsula – South Bali

by Barrie | February 12th, 2011   Tweet

One might think that there isn’t really that much to see to the south of the tourist area on the Bukit Peninsula except for the odd temple and some brilliant surfing locations. But, there is a lot to see and experience.

These days, unfortunately, the Bukit Peninsula is pounded by tourist buses daily visiting the sacred temple of Pura Luhur Uluwatu on the western tip of the Bukit and on the east side, the upmarket Nusa Dua.

Then there is Jimbaran Bay and the surfing beaches such as Dreamland to the north. Yes, you could definitely say that the Bukit is not off the beaten track. But it is to a certain degree. Geologically being a limestone peninsula the Bukit Peninsula is pervious to the forces of Mother Nature.

Subsequently you will find numerous sea caves on the coastal area and inland, dotted around the peninsula. A lot of these caves are prehistoric are considered sacred such as Gua Selonding. There is one drawback though. A lot of these caves can only be reached on motorbike along rough tracks or by walking to them.

Quite a few of these caves are located within temple sites or shrined areas. Here are a few for you to check out. On the road to Uluwatu just before you arrive at the village of Simpangan you will find on your left-hand side you will find the turn-off to Pura Gua Gong and Pura Kayu Sijih. Both worth visiting and exploring.

Another good one to visit is Gua Peteng. Getting there is by a small track. When you arrive at the turn-off to Kutuh you will notice the track on your left-hand side. The cave is located not far from Cengeling. These are only a couple and it is well worth asking the locals about any caves in the area when you stop at a warung for refreshments.

If you like to visit out-of-the-way and unusual temples then visit the sea temples dotted around the coastline of the peninsula. Many are extremely old and rarely visited making it a treat to explore them. Start your journey from Pura Luhur Uluwatu and head to Pecatu. Here you will find Pura Pererepan. Further along the road heading in an easterly direction and before you arrive at the village of Bakung there is a turn-off which will take you down to the coast and the delightful Pura Masuka.

Going back to the main road and heading to the village of Kutuh, there is a secondary road that will lead you down to the coast again and to Pura Batu Pageh. From here, instead of going back to the main road, continue in an easterly direction along the coast and you will come across the temples of Pura Karang Bona and Pura Geger at Cape Lebang. The great thing about this secondary road is that it connects to a main road taking you directly to Nusa Dua near the Grand Hyatt Bali.

Exploring the Markets of Kuta and Denpasar in Bali

by Barrie | February 15th, 2011   Tweet

Bali is an incredible place for tourists with so much to see and, experience. The problem for a majority of tourists is time being on a restricted holiday plan. However, we all love shopping [although I am not a great lover of it] and the areas of Kuta and Denpasar have a fabulous experience for those wishing to experience Balinese culture.

I am talking about markets. Not just your usual tourist markets, although I have included those, but traditional markets as well. I think it’s the buzz of the colour and culture and the opportunity to bargain for your purchase that is an exciting experience; as well as satisfying.

I have this penchant wherever I travel in the archipelago of Indonesia and that is for traditional markets. It gives me a buzz just walking around checking out the goings-on and the manner tourists handle bargaining and the ilk. There are numerous markets in Bali; some good and some that are totally gross.
The general tourist markets are interesting but in my opinion, the traditional markets are the best. You will find these in just about every village and town on the island. However, if you are just searching for the cool T-shirt, weird object d’art or a souvenir as a gift for a friend, then most of the stuff you see on the street stalls you will inevitably find in the markets.

Most of the markets you visit will be so rich and alive with colour and activity as well as having delicious traditional Balinese food for sale. A good idea is to get to the market as early as possible, stroll around and have breakfast. One hint – get there early in the morning because the later the morning becomes, the hotter and busier it is.

Kuta Art Market: Located in Tuban behind the Matahari Square complex and opposite the Stadium Café, the Kuta Art Market is one of the big drawcards for tourists visiting Bali. At times this place can be overwhelming with its cacophony of narrow alleys crammed with various ‘tourist’ fare.

The market is a great place to visit but best done in the morning. If it all gets too much for you then simply walk to the back of the markets to the beach which backs onto it. Also, here you will find kaki lima selling some delicious traditional Balinese foods.

Wake Bali Art Market: Located on Jalan Kartika Plaza in Tuban the relatively new Wake Bali Art Market is doing a good trade. Unlike the pushy and somewhat uncomfortable markets around the area, the Wake Bali Art Market offers a relaxed atmosphere in which to shop at your leisure. Their choice of Balinese handicrafts is quite good and reasonably priced compared with its counterparts in other places on the tourist strip. The Wake Bali Art Market is a great place to shop for those special gifts or if you desire is to decorate your home with that Balinese touch, this is the place to go.

Pasar Badung: This is the largest market in Bali and acts as a sort of clearing house for many island goods. Sarong vendors in Padangbai may buy their wares at Pasar Badung. Fruit and vegetable producers from around Bali may bring their goods to market at Pasar Badung, so the market is humming with activity 24/7.

Around the ground floor areas of Pasar Badung, especially outside the stairwells, one can observe older Balinese ladies preparing and selling traditional Balinese snack foods, complete with ground chilli’s, vegetables and an array of other items. You may not know exactly what you’re eating but it could be a wonderful experience and one that will not break the bank.

Pasar Kumbasari: Another market that is also worth a visit is Pasar Kumbasari. This 4-storey traditional art-market is located across the Badung River from Pasar Badung. Pasar Kumbasari is purely an art market, stocking sarongs, paintings, textiles, woodcarvings and other souvenir items. You can walk from one market to the other in 2 minutes.

Other markets in Denpasar:

Pasar Burung: This is a smaller scale open-air market located on Jl. Veteran, north on Alun-alun Puputan. This market does not sell food or sarongs, but specializes in live animals, particularly live birds. No doubt the conditions of the market are not up to western standards, but one has to put this kind of thing aside for the moment in order to check out the place. Tropical birds of all kinds can be found there.

Pasar Malam: Located next to a busy street, these places look like a disaster area during the day, a combination or bare cement, corrugated iron roofs, piles of garbage and parked food carts, this is a great market to visit. Things found at a pasar malam will be all things goreng (fried). Giant wok1 1 meter in diameter are set up on jet engine-like burners, each containing about a gallon or 2 of vegetable oil.

Locals have figured out by now that this is the easiest way to knock out food fast, away from a proper kitchen. Ayam goreng (fried chicken), served with rice and lalapan (raw cabbage, green beans, mint leaves and sliced cucumber, with a portion of hot sambal) is a good choice. No doubt there will be a soto ayam (chicken soup) seller and of course a corner stall cranking out pisang goreng (fried bananas).

Other sources of tourist fare can be found at the numerous factory outlets located in the Kuta area and Denpasar. Although all goods for sale are fixed price, most of what you can purchase is of good quality and reasonably priced.

Balinese markets are not as scary as they look and you can have a good time checking them out.

Taman Kupu Kupu – Bali Butterfly Park

by Barrie | February 14th, 2011   Tweet

One of the delightful must-see and do experiences in Bali is a visit to where butterflies dance around you. Being just eight degrees below the Equator, Bali has the type of climate that is pleasing and relatively mild although warm. It is an island that has a diverse range of animal species.

One that I have always found delightful is butterflies. You will find them fluttering around the gardens in your hotel but it is when you get out of the polluted tourist areas that you are able to view these colourful creatures in their natural habitat. Of course the most spectacular in colour of these butterflies you will predominately find in the jungle areas of Bali such as the Bali Barat National Park.

However, there is no need for you to go trekking through the jungle to view these beautiful creatures. Located 7kms north of the town of Tabanan, at Wanasari, on the road to Penebel is the Bali Butterfly Park (Taman Kupu Kupu) – kupu kupu is Indonesian for butterflies. It will take about an hour to get there by vehicle. The park is a fabulous place for families and educational for children.

After passing through a couple of doors and a set of hanging chains, you are inside the net-covered garden. From the very start you will be enchanted by the array of thousands of brightly coloured butterflies all around you; hovering in curiosity as you wander through. I particularly liked the large yellow and black butterflies fluttering around. The park is aesthetically mesmerising. Photography is allowed.

The Bali Butterfly Park covers 3,500m sq, making it the largest park of its kind in South-East Asia and the park provides an environment for butterfly preservation and study.

Opening hours:
Daily 8am-5pm

Bali Butterfly Park
Jalan Batukaru,
Sandan Wanasari
Tabanan 80351
Tel: (0361) 814282 (0361) 814283
Fax: (0361) 814281

Further Reading: Butterflies of Bali by Victor Mason

Try Paragliding When You Are in Bali

by Barrie | February 11th, 2011   Tweet

As mentioned in the previous article, there are a lot of offbeat, crazy and adventurous things to do on the idyllic island of the Gods. Paragliding is one buzz you really cannot miss the opportunity of experiencing.

I have done it a couple of times in New Zealand, you can take my word for it when I tell you gliding through the air on wind currents whilst delighting in the stunning views from ‘up there’ is one heck of a thrill. It is totally different to skydiving where the thrill is in the first rush when you jump from the plane.

A paraglider is one simple wing in every sense of the word and it is designed as such that the same aerodynamic principles as a conventional aircraft are used. By using the upward flowing air streams you will find just how easy it is to attain substantial heights and travel great distances. If you desire for adventure is in the skies and you want to soar like the birds then there is a great company in Bali that can fulfil your lust for thrills. Exofly has been operating in Bali for the last 14 years and has an excellent reputation.

If you have never imbibed in paragliding before and are a tad concerned then Exofly will ease those worries. As their website explains ‘Experience is not necessary as our highly professional and well experienced instructors can take you on a tandem flight leaving you free to enjoy the captivating scenery of coral reefs and green lagoon waters below.’

Exofly is open from April 15th through until November 30th.

Check out their website for further info – http://www.exofly.com/

Other contact info:

Technical Director/Flight Instructor:
Phone: (intl code +62) 811393919
Fax: (intl code + 62) 361-730811

Training Center:
Timbis Beach Training Facility
Timbis Beach, Bali

Booking Inquiries:
Tel: (intl code + 62) 811393919

Photo Credit: airsports.co.uk

Protected Mangrove Forests to be Robbed of Two Hectares

by Barrie | February 14th, 2011   Tweet

One attraction tourists to Bali seldom visit is the Mangrove Information Centre in Sanur located on Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai at Suwung Kauh. It’s an amazing place with helpful staff ever-willing to answer all your questions and, in fact, the information centre is an education in itself on the ecology and management of Mangroves.

There are two trails to choose from – a short route of about one hour, and the other, a longer route of nearly two hours. If you chose the latter it will give you the opportunity to see as much of the mangrove swamps as possible.

The wooden pathway on a connecting bridge system six feet above the ground affords spectacular views of the mangroves and its wildlife as you walk towards the open sea. When you eventually reach the sea, the spectacular view of Benoa Port on one side and Tanjung Benoa on the other is a rewarding sight.

This place is truly stunning at sunrise and at dusk. What has annoyed me is an article I read in the Bali Discovery concerning these protected mangroves. It seems that the increase in tourism has inspired the Balinese Government to extend a toll way connecting Nusa Dua and Benoa. This will require the sacrifice of two hectares of the protected mangrove forests. According to the article the two hectares are needed to construct access ramps at the Ngurah Rai International Airport, Tuban and Nusa Dua.

So, with the ever increasing numbers of tourists visiting Bali, does this mean that sacred areas are under threat?

6 Offbeat Things to Do in Bali

by Barrie | February 10th, 2011   Tweet

There are numerous adventure companies in Bali offering a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities. A few I have already experienced and I am looking forward to completing my list of crazy and adventurous things to do.

There are the mundane and less adventurous activities like going surfing at night or getting lost in the Bali Barat National Park [been there, done that and wouldn’t recommend it to anybody!] or even diving alone off any of the reefs around the island. However, there are those activities that will give you a buzz and get the heart pumping.

Walking in the Ocean: Imagine if someone said to you that you could walk right on the bottom of the ocean and be down there with all the sea life. This is a unique diving system, fully escorted as you walk down deep into the ocean. It is totally safe and an exciting underwater adventure run by Sea Walker. You can observe the underwater world up to a depth of 15 feet without certification, and without getting your hair wet. Crazy, but, you actually walk on the bottom, rather than swim.

Climb Gunung Agung: There are two established trekking routes to get to the summit. The first is from Pura Besakih, meaning a 2.5 hour drive from Kuta, and a long climb lasting several hours to get to the summit by dawn. This route gets you to the highest point on the crater rim. Always take a local guide and negotiate their fee before taking off on the climb. However, from Pura Pasar Agung on the southern slope you can hike without a guide, but there are a few guys hanging out just in case. The climb is a straight shot up a 40 degree slope. No bends or switch backs. Climbing Gunung Agung is very hard on the knees and not recommended during the wet season. Don’t forget to carry 4-5 liters of water per person and food.

White Water Rafting: Sobek really has cornered this market and in my opinion offer the best of the best as far as service is concerned. Whether you are 5 or 85, a natural or a novice in rafting, white water rafting down the spectacular Ayung River is a breathtaking experience to be enjoyed.

Bungy Jump: Not one for those who suffer from vertigo but if you can overcome you fears and experience the exhilarating free-fall into thin air, then head down to AJ Hackett’s place on Jl Double Six. Located in the grounds of the Double Six nightclub, you could always have few shots of Dutch courage and toss yourself into the abyss.

Submarine Dive: Odyssey has an excellent small but quite safe submarine where you can view the exotic sea below the waves, so to speak. People of all ages and physical condition can experience the delights of the ocean in a safe and comfortable atmosphere. The sightseeing Submarine is battery-powered so as to pose no threat to the marine environment and what is great is the sub is air-conditioned and can carry 36 passengers to depths of 150 feet. Safety is assured in this highly sophisticated vessel.

Helicopter Ride: You have probably seen them flying overhead as you chill-out on Kuta beach. There are a few companies that do these tours of the island and it is a fantastic way to get an aerial tour that will show you the best of Bali. Most of them will give you a bird’s eye view of volcanoes, lakes, stepped rice fields and remote beaches.

When in Bali…Visit a Temple

by Barrie | February 8th, 2011   Tweet

Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali has over a thousand temples and each with its own purpose in Balinese religion. Most Balinese are Balinese Hindu and as such religion dominates every aspect of their lives. The temple is a very special place for the Balinese, not only it is a place of worship, but also the centre of their social and cultural life.

The numerous facets of Balinese culture are truly amazing and one of these is the Balinese temple; it could be a family temple at home or, a community temple in a village or town. There are temples that have a specific purpose like directional temples and sea temples; each with its own importance. Whatever the case may be, the many temples on the island of Bali are worth visiting even if it’s just for the experience. You might get lucky and there will be a temple celebration going on.

Visiting Balinese temples allows you to see the beautiful stone carvings [something I have always found fascinating] and a great place to learn about the culture of Balinese. Temples are a special place to gather for religious ceremonies. All of the temples in Bali are decorated in stone carvings that depict the Hindu mythology.

Starting with the plain outside gate, a person can pass into the middle courtyard via a candi bentar, the impressive Balinese split-gate. From there to the inner courtyard one has to pass through a kori agung, which is a stone-capped gate. Often there will be a flat block of cement (aling aling) directly inside the kori agung, blocking the way, forcing those entering to walk around either side. This is to keep evil spirits out of the jeroan, as spirits can only walk in straight lines.

Common features found inside a temple are bales, the open sided pavilions with raised seating section and thatched roof. These have a variety of uses including a place for the gamelan orchestra to sit, village meeting and a resting place for worshipers. Another common feature is gedong, or square shaped brick shrines capped with a thatched roof. These have specific names and are in honour of a particular ancestor, such as the village founder, or a specific deity, such as Sanghyang Widi Wasa; the supreme deity.

Factory Outlet Shopping in Bali

by Barrie | February 4th, 2011   Tweet

I am lousy at shopping. I hate it and much prefer to avoid it as much as possible. But, there are times when it becomes a necessity. Food shopping takes me less like than Flash Gordon whizzing by and this is always much to the dislike of my wife, Candika.

It is just annoying and when one just doesn’t feel like tramping around the various markets in the tourist strip of Bali; searching for that relentless search for a cool T-Shirt or a pair of boardies or even handicrafts, I give up. In the markets the prices always vary from vendor to vendor and it really gets to be a hassle bargaining even though at times it can be enjoyable.

Take heart though because there are several factory outlets along the tourist strip that can accommodate all your shopping needs. These factory outlets sell just about everything you can buy in any of the markets and some of them even sell packaged Balinese delights. The prices, in general, are far cheaper and one can shop at one’s leisure without being hassled. Here are a few of them.

Joger: Located on Jalan Raya Tuban not far from the Supernova shopping centre, this place is extremely popular with domestic tourists and at most times crowded. Joger is an amazing place to shop with practically all handicrafts made in Bali on sale at great prices. They have a vast range of T-Shirts and bags.

Geneva: This two-storey complex is located on Jalan Raya Seminyak and set back off the road. The entrance is via a flight of stairs. Geneva has a good selection of knick-knacks and other woodcarvings.

Their clothing selection is extensive and all goods are stacked on shelves for easier access. Geneva’s prices are comparable with other factory outlets. Most of the Balinese handicrafts are on sale here including topeng (masks) and lukisan (paintings). They do have a good selection of bedspreads and other home items.

Kampung Bali: Located on Jalan Merta Nadi behind the Bali Bakery in Kuta, this place is one of the better factory outlets around town. The L-shaped building is huge with a vast array of clothing, handicrafts and packaged Bali food for sale. Kampung Bali is the kind of place that affords relaxed shopping at great prices.

Kampung Bali also has a good selection of hand-crafted musical instruments. It’s not only that, they also have a great selection of sandals and aromatherapy products as well as shelves and shelves of batik clothing and batik pieces. Their selection of bedcovers is fabulous. Do browse around the food section and buy some of the packaged nuts and krupuk.

Krisna Oleh-Oleh Khas Bali: In my opinion probably the best factory outlet in Bali. Located on the Sunshine Road, Krisna is massive in size and offers everything you will need as far as handicrafts and clothing are concerned.

This complex has an excellent warung just outside the main building serving delicious traditional food and there is even a small playground for the kids. Krisna Oleh-Oleh Khas Bali has a superb array of packaged Balinese delicacies at good prices. Their selection of Balinese handicrafts is the best and the choice of all manner of clothing, outstanding.

One could spend hours just shopping in air-conditioned comfort. There really is no need to tramp around local markets when you can purchase all that you need at Krisna.

Best Places to View Rice Terraces in Bali

by Barrie | February 2nd, 2011   Tweet

Rice terraces are synonymous with Bali and the dominant part of the scenery. Rice farming in Bali dates back to Neolithic times. Bali’s steep mountains and deep gorges make wet rice farming difficult, so the Balinese have developed an intricate system of terraced rice fields, governed by a subak (water sharing community).

Balinese also believe that Dewi Sri, the Goddess of rice, must be honoured and shrines are set up in every sawah to honour her. The Balinese believe that Dewi Sri dwells in every stalk of rice and during harvesting Balinese women use a small curved knife hidden in their palm, cutting only a few stalks with every cut so not to scare Dewi Sri. Rice means life to the Balinese and is much more than something to fill a belly. Rice has 3 names: When still in the sawah its called padi, in the sack it is beras, on the plate its nasi.

Visitors to Bali have an abundance of places and attractions to visit besides the chaos of shopping and partying in the tourist strip. Bali is renowned for its numerous temples and other places of worship. However, wherever visitors go into the countryside on day trips it is inevitable they will see the rice terraces that adorn the faces of hills and mountains, the higher you go in elevation on the island, the more spectacular the rice terraces. These terraces are a classic feature on the landscape of Bali and are the rice cultivation on varying levels that follow the natural contours of the escarpments. These rice terraces off some of the most spectacular panoramas and most are, breathtaking.

I have always found the best times to photograph these magnificent views is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. During these times the sun is less harsh and enables the richness of the colours to be more defined.

Tegallalang: The 7klm stretch of road leading northwards from Ubud to Pujung passes through Tegallalang; without a doubt the finest view in Bali. The rice padi views are in the valley located in a kilometre stretch along the road are a tourist drawcard. You will certainly know when you have arrived at this spot by the numerous cars and tourist buses crammed onto the side of the road.

One thing you must remember in this place is crossing the road to obtain a good vantage point to take your fotos. Many times over the years I have seen tourists crossing aimlessly and nearly becoming a bonnet ornament. There are several vantage points located down a few steps to shops and warungs.

Naturally, the owners will attempt to sell you their wares but, even worse are the hawkers on the road who literally shove artefacts into your face. Just ignore them. It can get fairly busy here and at times competitive for the best places to take fotos of the view. Just enjoy!

Jataluwih: Located in the region of Tabanan, Jataluwih is the most striking examples of terraced agriculture in the world. The road north from Tabanan to Jataluwih takes you through some of the most famous rice-paddy views on the island. There are expansive panoramas over the gently sloping terraces and it truly is surreal. It is, without a doubt, Bali’s oldest and most complex example of the Subak rice terrace system of agriculture.

Located in vary convenient places along the road are some great, small restorans to sit and view the splendour. After you have completes all your photography of this stunning place then I would recommend sitting in the Jataluwih Café and enjoying a cold one whilst watching the sunset.

Belimbing: On the road north to Pupuan is a small place called Belimbing and although you really can’t see the village from the road you will see an isolated warung that is a great place for a rest stop.

When you walk through the back of the shop to the rear of the premises there are some shaded wooden tables and chairs. It’s not the delightful setting or the lovely gardens that are appealing but rather the fabulous views of terraced ricefields at the rear of the place.

What I found most intriguing about this place are the massive fruit bats that hang from a small tree in the courtyard. I walked right past them without even noticing. The other nice thing about this place is that they sell a fabulous collection of packaged spices and nuts.

Kekeran: On the road north of Pupuan I came across a great view. As you enter the Kapbupaten of Buleleng along the main Antosari to Mayong road there is a small village, Kekeran. Just off the side of the road you will notice a small one table warung hastily put together with a few old planks and sheets of iron roofing. It is owned by a cheery fellow, Nyoman. His wife is quick to sell you freshly cut Papaya, Mango, and Watermelon and the most delicious Krupuk Pisang, or sliced and fried banana.

But it is the view from the mountain road that is the attraction. Below in the valley expanse, a river winds its way through there, the terraced padi fields symetrically line the faces of the mountains and fields, emerald green and the sheaths of padi sway in the light breeze.

From the warung you can see as far as ten kilometres and even the road you were just on to get to this point. Nyoman was telling me he has had this spot for five years and delights in meeting all the visitors who come to his plot of soil. It is a great place to stop for a rest, satiate your thirst and imbibe in some fresh fruit whilst being spoilt by the beauty before your eyes.

Rendang: an area where you will find few travellers; an area where the locals look at you with suspicion and wonder. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular; narrow roads weaved through the lush, green jungle, the road seemingly disappearing as you descend and then suddenly rise to another panorama of jungle growth inter-dispersed with ramshackle houses and patches of rice paddies.

It was my outright curiosity and with the aid of a strategically placed sign half-buried in the jungle that caused me to turn down the narrow path and descend into a wide open area where I found the Lereng Agung Restoran. The view is stunning.

Deep in the valley below was a patchwork of paddy fields stretching as far as the eye could see; a collar of high trees the edge and above all this rising out of it all the mighty Gunung Agung; Bali’s highest mountain and on its slopes the sacred mother temple of Pura Besakih.

Abang & Ngis: One place on the east coast of the island that is seldom seem by regular tourists that, in my opinion, is the most stunning and beautiful panoramic view of rice fields on the whole island is a place called Ngis, a small village barely visible from the main road.

If you travel to Amlapura on the east coast then head north from there to the village of Abang, just in between these two places you will come to a sharp bend in the road and here you will find the heavenly view. There are small gravel places to park off the side of the road. The best time to really appreciate this stunning panorama is late afternoon and an ideal time for taking photos here.

Adventure in Bali – Cycling

by Barrie | January 27th, 2011   Tweet

There is nothing more delightful and enjoyable as getting on my mountain bike and just riding anywhere, whether it’s to get from point A to B or just for the sheer exuberance it gives me. Besides being an environmentally friendly form of transport it is also fabulous exercise.

However, what is even more enchanting is when you can cycle through rice paddies, along nice back roads, through small villages and even up in the mountains of Bali taking in the mesmerising panoramas the island of Bali has to offer. It is great family fun and ideal for those tourists or travellers wanting to experience that something different on their holidays. You don’t have to be super-fit or a frontrunner for the Tour de France to enjoy the wonders of cycling in Bali.

Here a few of the companies that operate in Bali with a little info from their websites to give you the opportunity to select the one you want to cycle with or for contacting them:

BikeBali: A Bike Bali Cycling Adventures & Tours Company” serves Bali Eco Tourism based adventures, travels and tours of biking adventures, Bali cycling tour, biking trip, family bike tours, eco cycling tour, Bali vocation cycling, Bali mountain bike tour, educational tour programs, Bali bicycle tours, bicycle tour in Bali, bike tours Bali, cycle tours, road bike tours, bike riders tours, cross country bike tour, bike touring. A complete range of cycling services in Bali for mountain bike, cycling adventure, rural tour and vocation. A cycling adventure downhill in a calm area through a village path. See real Balinese village. Biking program is one of our eco tourism based regular adventure.

Bali Bike Tours: This tour is designed for travelers who seek to go deep into Bali’s Countryside and witness first hand the daily life of rural rice farmers and craftsmen. This tour is guaranteed to be a memorable adventure. We pick you up at your hotel by A/C van and start the day with a delicious breakfast over looking mountain Batur’s active volcano. After breakfast we will cycle gently downhill for the next two and a half hours. During the bike ride you can stop whenever you choose to take photos and visit the local people. You will be able to find out details about village life including rice and vegetable farming, ceremonies, and family life.

SOBEK Cycling: SOBEK Cycling is not only great fun, but also a fantastic way to get away from the beaches and shopping malls that make up a typical island holiday. Through SOBEK you will not only gain and insight into usually unseen Balinese culture, but also an education into typical Balinese lifestyle. Accompanied by SOBEK Guides who are trained to educate and entertain you, a day touring Bali by bicycle has never been as much fun.

Bali Bike Ride: We begin by whisking you away from your accommodation to the rural centre of Bali, with our first stop an interesting tour at a coffee and cocao plantation. And then we’re off on our mountain bikes, with our friendly guides leading at a leisurely pace, cruising downhill along quiet village roads through the varied landscapes of Bali. We watch the passing parade of rural life as we cycle, stopping along the way to chat with village women and farmers amid their daily work routine and to laugh at the antics of the small children who smile and wave and call hello, hello. As traditional craftsmen go about their daily routine, we stop to enjoy a privileged opportunity to watch them at their ancient craft.

BaliCycling: BaliCycling offers a complete range of cycling services on scenic roads and challenging trails for you to enjoy on your Bali holiday. Balicycling Trails are special interest (Black Rock Lava Trail, Limestone Trail, Rice Field View Trail, Tropical Forest Park Trail ). Experience Bali on mountain bike. Go cycling and experience the spirit that is Bali. Cycle through the tropical ambiance, ancient rainforests, tranquil Balinese villages, exquisite rice terraces, experience the beauty and culture that is the “Island of the Gods”.

Bali Leisure: Great for mountain and village cycling. One of the best ways to see the spectacular countryside and the mountain scenery of Bali is on a cycling tour. Riding downhill on modern mountain bikes, through quiet villages that expose the heart of Bali. Cycling into the traditional Balinese Villages, fantastic natural beauty and an insight into the daily life of the local farming communities and much more.

Naturally, there are many more cycling tour companies in Bali and the above are just a selection of those on offer. Truly, there can be nothing better than returning home and telling your friends “Hey, guess what I did on my hols”. Here are a few of those other cycling operators you might want to check out:

http://www.baliadventuretours.com/BAT-Mountain_Cycling.htm

http://www.c-bali.com/

http://www.balimoontours.com/

http://happybiketour.com/

http://baliecocycling.com/

http://www.nakbali.com/category/bali-adventure-tours/bali-cycling/

http://masbali.com/bali-cycling-adventure-tours.html

http://balimurtitours.com/20/mountain-cycling-tours.html

Happy and enjoyable cycling in Bali…

The Ancient Lontar Scripts of Bali are Going Digital

by Barrie | January 30th, 2011   Tweet

Some of you reading this might not realise what a lontar is or is importance in the ancient Balinese culture. Basically, a lontar is written history and Bali has a unique way of preserving it. These manuscripts are writings from hundreds of years ago that are inscribed on the leaves of the lontar palm (punyan entel).

The writing surface is prepared by soaking the leaves in water for days to remove the chlorophyll. The leaf is then brushed to remove any small debris of insects and then boiled with a herbal potion to add flexibility and durability to the leaf.

To stop the leaves getting wrinkled the drying process is very slow. The leaves are then pressed for 10 days to get as flat a surface as possible. They are then cut into strips that are 35-40cm long and 3-4cm wide. The final phase of the leaf preparation involves pressing the cut leaves again and colouring the edges with a dye called kincu to keep insects away. After another 6 months the leaves are ready for engraving.

The engraving is a meticulous process that is achieved with a sharp iron tool. Carbon from a lamp is then rubbed into the engraving to give it colour. Ensuring the survival of the lontar manuscripts is a continual process as they only last for a maximum of about 100 years. The Bali Aga village of Tenganan specializes in lontar engravings.

There was an interesting article in the Jakarta Post (2011/01/29) regarding lontar manuscripts. According to the article: The repaired lontar manuscripts, totaling 3,000 pieces stored at the agency’s library, are to be scanned and uploaded into a digital library, making them accessible to any reader across the world when the project is complete.

If you are interested in the ancient culture of Bali written on lontar then Singaraja is the place to visit. The Gedong Kirtya is the only museum of lontar manuscripts in the world and houses 3,000 or more separate pieces written in Old Javanese, Balinese and Indonesia, covering subjects such as folk history, black magic and astrology.

Gedong Kirtya also houses a set of inscribed bronze plates from the 10th century. These are called prasasti and are considered to be the oldest written records in Bali.

Image Courtesy: balifantastic.com

Chinese New Year in Bali

by Barrie | February 1st, 2011   Tweet

Today is Chinese New Year, or Imlek, throughout Indonesia and the world. The Chinese communities in the major cities throughout Indonesia, Jakarta, Semarang, Surabaya, Bandung and Yogyakarta, will be holding street parades featuring Barong Sai and many more puppets dancing in the streets and in klentengs (Chinese temples).

Not many visitors to Bali know of the existence of a Chinese temple in Kuta. In fact, when you leave Bali to head to the airport, you travel right past it and it is easily unnoticed. Down a quiet alleyway off Jalan Bakungsari and fronting the very busy Jalan Singo Sari is located the only Bhuddist temple in the Kuta area.

There are several Chinese temples in Bali and a couple of Klentengs (Chinese temples) in Denpasar but they are smaller whereas the Vihara Dharmayana on Jalan Tanjung Mekar is a relatively large temple and patronised by the Chinese community in Kuta. Anybody can enter the temple, look around and take photographs (please do it discreetly so as not to disturb those praying). There are several Bhuddist statues and the whole temple is decorated in the lucky Chinese colour of red.

Vihara Dharmayana during the week-long festival is spectacular with Barongsai dance and those colourful masks. Red lanterns are strung from the buildings in the temple compound and there is a steady stream of devotees praying and paying homage to Bhudda. It is also a time of feasting and the best time during the celebratory week is at night when all the delicious food is brought out for all to share. If you visit the temple then please leave a small donation as it helps with the upkeep of the temple.

To all my Chinese friends in Indonesia, I would like to express…

‘SELEMAT TAHUN BARU CINA’

‘GONG XI FAT CAI’