Wednesday 17 December 2008
A Beach Resort in Magical of Tanjung Benoa
Bali Hotels, Tanjung Benoa Beach BaliTanjung Benoa Resort Area is just step from the exclusive resort area of Nusa Dua Bali is located in the peninsula of Bali Island . It owns beautiful white sandy beach with calm seawater surrounded the area. The Grand Mirage Resort is located right in the magical of Tanjung Benoa Bali where it let you to run wild and experience the holiday, perform your dreams, getting fresh from your crowded, indulge yourself in fun, refreshing activities and relax on the beach or at the pool side where stretching out is must. In the night join the wine, dine at the hotel restaurant, and enjoy the hotel award winning cuisine.
Friday 10 October 2008
Discovery Kartika Plaza
KARTIKA PLAZA Wedding Package
Wedding Packages | Hotel Profile
Wedding in Bali is not a dream. Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel, Bali will helps you to deliver the truly romantic of this paradise on earth for your wedding ceremony and reception. With its beachfront location on Kuta beach, feel the tropical breeze while celebrating your personal commitment with the love one.
Wedding Packages | Hotel Profile
Wedding in Bali is not a dream. Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel, Bali will helps you to deliver the truly romantic of this paradise on earth for your wedding ceremony and reception. With its beachfront location on Kuta beach, feel the tropical breeze while celebrating your personal commitment with the love one.
Friday 22 August 2008
bali story
Sidemen.
lt writing about Sidemen because I am tempted to keep the secret to myself. The fear is that attention and ìsuccessî might send it in the same direction that Ubud has gone; in the direction of Dunkin Donuts and shopping malls, three-storey hotels, pollution and traffic jams. So I write this reluctantly, and feel compelled to attach this gentle reminder: If you go to Sidemen, tread lightly, and remember that a wise quantum physicist once stated definitively that ìseeing is changing. Observing is participating, and there is no such thing as an innocent bystander.(Kadek Susilawati)
Click to Continue
The Ubud
Area from the Bronze Age to the Information Age For millennia, Ubud and the areas immediately surrounding it have been ìcentre stage for the fascinating drama of Balinese history. During the Bronze Age (from 300BC), the Ubud area was already a wellspring of culture. This is evidenced by numerous archaeological finds in the area, including megalithic ruins and stepped pyramids, some of which are now the foundations of active Hindu temples. Remarkable Bronze Age artifacts around Ubud include the enormous bronze gong known as ìThe Moon of Pejeng. (Kadek Susilawati) Click details
History and Culture Of Bali.
The Balinese has already owned their belief and culture when Hinduism was brought into Indonesia about 2000 year ago. Around 400 AD, the Hindu Kingdoms in Central and East Java had their great influence over Bali, but when a new religion, Islam came in, the Hindu Kingdom in Java became less and less powerful, at that time a large number of priests, noblemen. Artists and their followers refused the new religion and escaped to Bali. They blended their belief and traditions with those of the local people, a blend of which is inherited by the present Balinese people, the rich culture which is instead of the scenic beauty of the island, has attracted noir and more visitors from time to time. Click to details
History of Balinese Dances
After the Majapahit warriors subdued Ball in the 14 century, Javanese mini principalities and courts soon appeared everywhere, creating that unique blend of cour and peasant culture, which is Bali highly sophisticated, dynamic and lively. The accompanying narrative for dance and drama is to a large extent based on court stories from pre-Majapahit Java. Even the Indian epics, another favourite of the stage, especially the wayang, use Javanese, cornplete with long quotes from the ancient Javanese Kakawin poetry. So Javanese culture, which disappeared from Java following Click Details
The capture of Bali Island.
Bali Island is an island west from Java. In World War II he played important role in conquest of Java Island. From Bali's airfields was important Allied Naval Base Soerabaja in range of Japanese bombers. Click Details
Java's Sailendra Dynasty.
At a point in time when Sri Vijaya had been the established leader in the Southeast Asian region for about 100 years, the Sailendra Dynasty of Java emerged.
HISTORY OF THE TRADITIONAL BALINESE.
The early history of the Traditional Balinese is the same as the history of the Traditional Siamese. The Siamese is considered by many to be a 'natural' breed - that is to say, one that developed without the intervention of man. Click Detail
Sri Vijaya.
The birth of the Malay empire, Sri Vijaya, as a great power in SE Asia began in the economic and political vacuum left by the fall of Funan. The Khmers, who had taken over the territory of Funan, did not take on Funan's former role as middle man in the China-India trade. Sri Vijaya took up the mantle as commercial intermediary between Asia's two great powers.
Balinese Painting and Technology: History
To understand the influence of technology and outside perspective on painting in Ubud a brief review is helpful. An excellent source for the history of Balinese painting can be found at Ubud's Neka Museum, whose collection is grouped according to chronology and artistic style. The descriptions below are adapted from Suteja Neka's book, The Development of Painting in Bali. Neka is a collector of Balinese art and founder of the museum.
HIGHLIGHTS ON INDONESIA
Indonesia did not exist yet during the Paleocene period (70 million years BC), the Eocene period (30 million years BC), the Oligocene period (25 million years BC) and the Miocene period (12 million years BC). It is believed that Indonesia must have existed during the Pleistocene period (4 million years BC) when it was linked with the present Asian Mainland.
A History of Gamelan (Balinese Music)
Gamelan music is the sum of diverse foreign influences. Pitch relationships from China, bronze instruments from southeast Asia, drums and modal practice from India, bowed strings from the middle east, and even military styles from Europe contributed to the traditional music we hear in Java and Bali today. Click details
The Treasures of Lombok
From the Seventeenth Century on, Lombok was under control of a few Balinese Monarchs. Trade for Bali was mainly through Lombok, because Bali was hard to reach for the very large ships. In the Nineteenth Century there was lively sea traffic with ....
Bali in the Middle Classic Period
In the late 10th century an East Javanese princess named Gunapriya married Udayana, a Balinese ruler of the Warmmadewa dynasty. After this marriage, Javanese cultural influence over Bali became very powerful. The Old Javanese language began to ...
Bali in the Late Classic Period
Geologists Bali's economy at the end of the Classic period had apparently not changed greatly since the beginning of the historic era. Agriculture was still the most important sector. In politics, religion, and coinage, .....
The Kingdoms of Bali
Bali, with its Hindus religion and rich cultural and ceremonial life, occupies a unique position in the Indonesian world. Although Bali's past is closely linked with that of pre-Islamic Java, the Balinese did not embrace Islam as it swept through the Indonesian Archipelago in the 15th century. Instead, ....
Puputan: End of the Kingdoms of Bali
For a Balinese ruler faced with defeat, surrender was never an option. Traditionally, the only honourable course of action was to end his life and set aside his temporal power in a fight to the death, a ritual of self sacrifice known as puputan. Literally ......
lt writing about Sidemen because I am tempted to keep the secret to myself. The fear is that attention and ìsuccessî might send it in the same direction that Ubud has gone; in the direction of Dunkin Donuts and shopping malls, three-storey hotels, pollution and traffic jams. So I write this reluctantly, and feel compelled to attach this gentle reminder: If you go to Sidemen, tread lightly, and remember that a wise quantum physicist once stated definitively that ìseeing is changing. Observing is participating, and there is no such thing as an innocent bystander.(Kadek Susilawati)
Click to Continue
The Ubud
Area from the Bronze Age to the Information Age For millennia, Ubud and the areas immediately surrounding it have been ìcentre stage for the fascinating drama of Balinese history. During the Bronze Age (from 300BC), the Ubud area was already a wellspring of culture. This is evidenced by numerous archaeological finds in the area, including megalithic ruins and stepped pyramids, some of which are now the foundations of active Hindu temples. Remarkable Bronze Age artifacts around Ubud include the enormous bronze gong known as ìThe Moon of Pejeng. (Kadek Susilawati) Click details
History and Culture Of Bali.
The Balinese has already owned their belief and culture when Hinduism was brought into Indonesia about 2000 year ago. Around 400 AD, the Hindu Kingdoms in Central and East Java had their great influence over Bali, but when a new religion, Islam came in, the Hindu Kingdom in Java became less and less powerful, at that time a large number of priests, noblemen. Artists and their followers refused the new religion and escaped to Bali. They blended their belief and traditions with those of the local people, a blend of which is inherited by the present Balinese people, the rich culture which is instead of the scenic beauty of the island, has attracted noir and more visitors from time to time. Click to details
History of Balinese Dances
After the Majapahit warriors subdued Ball in the 14 century, Javanese mini principalities and courts soon appeared everywhere, creating that unique blend of cour and peasant culture, which is Bali highly sophisticated, dynamic and lively. The accompanying narrative for dance and drama is to a large extent based on court stories from pre-Majapahit Java. Even the Indian epics, another favourite of the stage, especially the wayang, use Javanese, cornplete with long quotes from the ancient Javanese Kakawin poetry. So Javanese culture, which disappeared from Java following Click Details
The capture of Bali Island.
Bali Island is an island west from Java. In World War II he played important role in conquest of Java Island. From Bali's airfields was important Allied Naval Base Soerabaja in range of Japanese bombers. Click Details
Java's Sailendra Dynasty.
At a point in time when Sri Vijaya had been the established leader in the Southeast Asian region for about 100 years, the Sailendra Dynasty of Java emerged.
HISTORY OF THE TRADITIONAL BALINESE.
The early history of the Traditional Balinese is the same as the history of the Traditional Siamese. The Siamese is considered by many to be a 'natural' breed - that is to say, one that developed without the intervention of man. Click Detail
Sri Vijaya.
The birth of the Malay empire, Sri Vijaya, as a great power in SE Asia began in the economic and political vacuum left by the fall of Funan. The Khmers, who had taken over the territory of Funan, did not take on Funan's former role as middle man in the China-India trade. Sri Vijaya took up the mantle as commercial intermediary between Asia's two great powers.
Balinese Painting and Technology: History
To understand the influence of technology and outside perspective on painting in Ubud a brief review is helpful. An excellent source for the history of Balinese painting can be found at Ubud's Neka Museum, whose collection is grouped according to chronology and artistic style. The descriptions below are adapted from Suteja Neka's book, The Development of Painting in Bali. Neka is a collector of Balinese art and founder of the museum.
HIGHLIGHTS ON INDONESIA
Indonesia did not exist yet during the Paleocene period (70 million years BC), the Eocene period (30 million years BC), the Oligocene period (25 million years BC) and the Miocene period (12 million years BC). It is believed that Indonesia must have existed during the Pleistocene period (4 million years BC) when it was linked with the present Asian Mainland.
A History of Gamelan (Balinese Music)
Gamelan music is the sum of diverse foreign influences. Pitch relationships from China, bronze instruments from southeast Asia, drums and modal practice from India, bowed strings from the middle east, and even military styles from Europe contributed to the traditional music we hear in Java and Bali today. Click details
The Treasures of Lombok
From the Seventeenth Century on, Lombok was under control of a few Balinese Monarchs. Trade for Bali was mainly through Lombok, because Bali was hard to reach for the very large ships. In the Nineteenth Century there was lively sea traffic with ....
Bali in the Middle Classic Period
In the late 10th century an East Javanese princess named Gunapriya married Udayana, a Balinese ruler of the Warmmadewa dynasty. After this marriage, Javanese cultural influence over Bali became very powerful. The Old Javanese language began to ...
Bali in the Late Classic Period
Geologists Bali's economy at the end of the Classic period had apparently not changed greatly since the beginning of the historic era. Agriculture was still the most important sector. In politics, religion, and coinage, .....
The Kingdoms of Bali
Bali, with its Hindus religion and rich cultural and ceremonial life, occupies a unique position in the Indonesian world. Although Bali's past is closely linked with that of pre-Islamic Java, the Balinese did not embrace Islam as it swept through the Indonesian Archipelago in the 15th century. Instead, ....
Puputan: End of the Kingdoms of Bali
For a Balinese ruler faced with defeat, surrender was never an option. Traditionally, the only honourable course of action was to end his life and set aside his temporal power in a fight to the death, a ritual of self sacrifice known as puputan. Literally ......
Sunday 17 August 2008
Bali Travel Tips
Currency and Exchange
The rupiah is the basic unit of money, normally abbreviated to Rp followed by the value. Denominations of Rp 50 and 100 are in the form of coins, Rp 100, 500 and 1,000 are in either coins or bills, and Rp 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 are only available in bills. Values below Rp 50 are rarely seen except as change and are often substituted by sellers with sweets in lieu of change. In Bali, carry a handful of coins or Rp 100 notes and do not exchange large sums of money even if you plan to be there for a long time. Take note though, due to the volatility of the rupiah, most mid-range hotels, all top-end hotels and restaurants, and some tourist attractions, car rental agencies and tour companies list their prices in US dollar. The rupiah is still acceptable but the exchange rate is usually more advantageous to the vendor than the tourist. The postal service in Bali has a type of postal traveller's check called cek pos. You can exchange your cash for these checks at a main post office and use them throughout Indonesia as traveller's checks or cash them at any post office. However, these traveller's checks cannot be accepted by individuals.
Foreign currency, whether in banknotes or traveller's checks, should be exchanged at major banks or authorised moneychangers. Exchange rates offered by the moneychangers are generally better than the banks, they stay open longer and transactions are quicker. Look around for variable exchange rates advertised on boards along the footpaths or windows outside shops. Always ask about any commission imposed before the exchange as many moneychangers with better rates often charge a small commission.
Banks
Most major banks have branches in the main tourist centers and provincial capitals. But it would be difficult to find banks in smaller towns, and even if there were banks, the exchange rates may be woeful. Banking hours are generally from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday and until 11 a.m. on Saturdays.
Credit Cards
Many shops, large and small, accept plastic cards with a 3-5 percent added to the bill. Cash advances can be obtained in all major tourist resorts - Denpasar, Kuta, Sanur and Ubud. Automatic Teller Machines are mushrooming all over the place, especially at shopping centers and bank branches. Most of them are connected to international banking networks, thus making it possible to look for machines that are affiliated with your own ATM network. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted by most of the bigger businesses. The amount signed for is in rupiah and the bill is then converted to your domestic currency.
Security
To ensure security and convenience, bring most of your money in traveller's checks, despite getting better exchange rates for cash. Backing this up with a credit card for major purchases is a good idea. US dollars are the most negotiable currency, particularly in remote areas. It would be a practical way to change as much as you can and feel safe carrying before heading into more remote regions.
Customs
Weapons, narcotics, pornography, and radio-cassette players are prohibited in Bali. Yes, it is strange that cassette players are not allowed into the island but this law is rarely enforced. Anything with Chinese characters written on it is forbidden. The same rule applies to fresh fruits, plants, animals, exposed films, and videos. Pets are strictly banned to prevent the spread of rabies. But if you insist on taking your furry friends along, an official letter is needed from your veterinarian stating that your pet is disease-free but this would not guarantee a quarantine. Feel free to contact your local Indonesian consulate/embassy for details.
You are only able to bring a maximum of one liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 100 grams of tobacco, and a reasonable amount of perfume into Bali. Photographic equipment, typewriters and radios are admitted, provided that they are taken out on departure. All these must be declared via a customs declaration form that must be completed before arrival. Another subject is the import and export of currencies, one is not able to import or export the Indonesian currency exceeding Rp 5 million. In addition, export of national treasures are frowned upon - tortoise shell, crocodile skins, and ivory are not to be taken out of Indonesia.
The rupiah is the basic unit of money, normally abbreviated to Rp followed by the value. Denominations of Rp 50 and 100 are in the form of coins, Rp 100, 500 and 1,000 are in either coins or bills, and Rp 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 are only available in bills. Values below Rp 50 are rarely seen except as change and are often substituted by sellers with sweets in lieu of change. In Bali, carry a handful of coins or Rp 100 notes and do not exchange large sums of money even if you plan to be there for a long time. Take note though, due to the volatility of the rupiah, most mid-range hotels, all top-end hotels and restaurants, and some tourist attractions, car rental agencies and tour companies list their prices in US dollar. The rupiah is still acceptable but the exchange rate is usually more advantageous to the vendor than the tourist. The postal service in Bali has a type of postal traveller's check called cek pos. You can exchange your cash for these checks at a main post office and use them throughout Indonesia as traveller's checks or cash them at any post office. However, these traveller's checks cannot be accepted by individuals.
Foreign currency, whether in banknotes or traveller's checks, should be exchanged at major banks or authorised moneychangers. Exchange rates offered by the moneychangers are generally better than the banks, they stay open longer and transactions are quicker. Look around for variable exchange rates advertised on boards along the footpaths or windows outside shops. Always ask about any commission imposed before the exchange as many moneychangers with better rates often charge a small commission.
Banks
Most major banks have branches in the main tourist centers and provincial capitals. But it would be difficult to find banks in smaller towns, and even if there were banks, the exchange rates may be woeful. Banking hours are generally from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday and until 11 a.m. on Saturdays.
Credit Cards
Many shops, large and small, accept plastic cards with a 3-5 percent added to the bill. Cash advances can be obtained in all major tourist resorts - Denpasar, Kuta, Sanur and Ubud. Automatic Teller Machines are mushrooming all over the place, especially at shopping centers and bank branches. Most of them are connected to international banking networks, thus making it possible to look for machines that are affiliated with your own ATM network. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted by most of the bigger businesses. The amount signed for is in rupiah and the bill is then converted to your domestic currency.
Security
To ensure security and convenience, bring most of your money in traveller's checks, despite getting better exchange rates for cash. Backing this up with a credit card for major purchases is a good idea. US dollars are the most negotiable currency, particularly in remote areas. It would be a practical way to change as much as you can and feel safe carrying before heading into more remote regions.
Customs
Weapons, narcotics, pornography, and radio-cassette players are prohibited in Bali. Yes, it is strange that cassette players are not allowed into the island but this law is rarely enforced. Anything with Chinese characters written on it is forbidden. The same rule applies to fresh fruits, plants, animals, exposed films, and videos. Pets are strictly banned to prevent the spread of rabies. But if you insist on taking your furry friends along, an official letter is needed from your veterinarian stating that your pet is disease-free but this would not guarantee a quarantine. Feel free to contact your local Indonesian consulate/embassy for details.
You are only able to bring a maximum of one liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 100 grams of tobacco, and a reasonable amount of perfume into Bali. Photographic equipment, typewriters and radios are admitted, provided that they are taken out on departure. All these must be declared via a customs declaration form that must be completed before arrival. Another subject is the import and export of currencies, one is not able to import or export the Indonesian currency exceeding Rp 5 million. In addition, export of national treasures are frowned upon - tortoise shell, crocodile skins, and ivory are not to be taken out of Indonesia.
Friday 15 August 2008
Dreamland Access
same bay like bingin and impossibles.Drive the Uluwatu street (Jalan Uluwatu), direction Uluwatu and 3 Km before Uluwatu Beach you'll have a big entrance, with no guards, on your right, to what was suposed to be a big private condominium made by the sun of former Indonesian President Suharto (he was arrested).You enter there and drive in direction of the sea, in the middle of the road you'll have to pay some guys to let you in (not much) and then just follow the road signs.
Tuesday 12 August 2008
Dreamland beach: Too tempting for developers
Dreamland is the largest white sand beach on the western Bukit peninsula. That fact was not lost on Tomy Suharto, who with the help of rich friends tried to develop the place some years ago. For most Bali visitors Dreamland is a cool place to go for a beach afternoon, sip a juice in a local warung and forget about life for a while. Well that’s coming to an end thanks to the men with money who see a great piece of Bali as their ticket to cash. A golf course and condos are planned and Dreamland will not doubt be changed forever. Here’s a letter to the Jakarta Post on the subject.
Tropical nightmare
Dreamland, a place so aptly named for its dreamlike qualities, holds a special place in the hearts of many surfers and beach-goers, local and foreign tourists alike.
The quaint beach-side small food shops (warungs) coupled with an amazing a-frame wave, water so blue that it looks like it should belong in one of those brochures at your travel agent and a beach second to none, combine to create a dream that of late has been shattered and transformed into nightmare by the conglomerate behind a new golf course development.
The beach side warungs look more like a building site from hell now, completely ruining the beach’s previous atmosphere.
A huge desalination pipe to water the golf course now runs out into the surf, whilst diggers and trucks plow the land above, basically what was a place that still held some of the magic of Bali is slowly but surely turning into yet another tourist-filled commercial center that will only add to the pollution and continue the slow destruction of one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
My only hope is that other people like me will come to realize that playing golf in sweltering hot Bali is so out of context that the conglomerate behind the development will go bankrupt once again, thus bringing the whole operation to a grinding halt.
The angry feelings directed at the destruction of Dreamland seems to have made people blind to the fact that barely half a kilometer down the beach in Bingin, the locals are selling state-owned beach-side properties for huge sums to bules who are using the tidal pools as foundations to build their condo-style villas.
Although it is illegal, the state seems to be doing nothing. On top of this, these bules are not taking the problems that the increased amount of sewage and garbage will cause to the environment into consideration.
All these illegal buildings that are popping up at an incredible rate are being built without taking into account the impact upon the beauty of the place, sea and nature surrounding them.
The lack of interest from the local authorities has fanned the flames and has sped up a phenomenon that will ultimately be the destruction of the Bukit coastline from Dreamland to Uluwatu.
As a tourist who has been visiting Bali almost religiously for the past six years I have noticed this decay, so it seems incredible to me that nobody is doing anything about it! Please, somebody do something.
THOMAS HARLAND
Kometjie, South Africa
In hindsight one could of predicted all this. After all there is only so much beach front property and the large hotel companies hunger for it. What chance does a Balinese local have when confronted with that kind of financial power?
Tropical nightmare
Dreamland, a place so aptly named for its dreamlike qualities, holds a special place in the hearts of many surfers and beach-goers, local and foreign tourists alike.
The quaint beach-side small food shops (warungs) coupled with an amazing a-frame wave, water so blue that it looks like it should belong in one of those brochures at your travel agent and a beach second to none, combine to create a dream that of late has been shattered and transformed into nightmare by the conglomerate behind a new golf course development.
The beach side warungs look more like a building site from hell now, completely ruining the beach’s previous atmosphere.
A huge desalination pipe to water the golf course now runs out into the surf, whilst diggers and trucks plow the land above, basically what was a place that still held some of the magic of Bali is slowly but surely turning into yet another tourist-filled commercial center that will only add to the pollution and continue the slow destruction of one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
My only hope is that other people like me will come to realize that playing golf in sweltering hot Bali is so out of context that the conglomerate behind the development will go bankrupt once again, thus bringing the whole operation to a grinding halt.
The angry feelings directed at the destruction of Dreamland seems to have made people blind to the fact that barely half a kilometer down the beach in Bingin, the locals are selling state-owned beach-side properties for huge sums to bules who are using the tidal pools as foundations to build their condo-style villas.
Although it is illegal, the state seems to be doing nothing. On top of this, these bules are not taking the problems that the increased amount of sewage and garbage will cause to the environment into consideration.
All these illegal buildings that are popping up at an incredible rate are being built without taking into account the impact upon the beauty of the place, sea and nature surrounding them.
The lack of interest from the local authorities has fanned the flames and has sped up a phenomenon that will ultimately be the destruction of the Bukit coastline from Dreamland to Uluwatu.
As a tourist who has been visiting Bali almost religiously for the past six years I have noticed this decay, so it seems incredible to me that nobody is doing anything about it! Please, somebody do something.
THOMAS HARLAND
Kometjie, South Africa
In hindsight one could of predicted all this. After all there is only so much beach front property and the large hotel companies hunger for it. What chance does a Balinese local have when confronted with that kind of financial power?
Monday 11 August 2008
The Dreamland Luxury Villas & Spa Bali Description
Location
Located uphill in Ungasan, south of Bali, DreamLand Villa is a new destination. About 20 mins from Bali International airport.
Rooms
Each Villa has a private pool and private garden with traditional Balinese Gazebo. A modern style bedroom interior completed by a state of the art facilities.
Restaurant
Terrace Restaurant with open kitchen to give a chance to the guests to see the activities in the kitchen to guarantee hygiene. Open for breakfast lunch and dinner.
General
39 Private Pool Villas with private garden & private pool, Balinese Gazebo. The new resort with a new destination for Bali.
Located uphill in Ungasan, south of Bali, DreamLand Villa is a new destination. About 20 mins from Bali International airport.
Rooms
Each Villa has a private pool and private garden with traditional Balinese Gazebo. A modern style bedroom interior completed by a state of the art facilities.
Restaurant
Terrace Restaurant with open kitchen to give a chance to the guests to see the activities in the kitchen to guarantee hygiene. Open for breakfast lunch and dinner.
General
39 Private Pool Villas with private garden & private pool, Balinese Gazebo. The new resort with a new destination for Bali.
Sunday 10 August 2008
PURA (TEMPLE) TAMAN AYUN - BALI
Taman Ayun diterjemahkan sebagai taman yang indah. kolam yang luas disekeliling pura dulunya sering dipakai oleh dayang-dayang puri kerajaan dengan perahu kecil. kolam ini pula yang ternyata aga menyulitkan gw waktu mencari angle tuk mengabadikan kecantikan pura ini, karena dikelilingi pagar dan tidak boleh dilewati. Taman ayun terletak di desa Mengwi Badung, sekitar 18 km barat laut Denpasar (atau 25 menit jika berkendaraan).
Mengutip pemaparan sebuah sumber, Pura Taman Ayun dibangun pada abad 17 (konon dibangun tahun 1634) oleh raja pertama Kerajaan Mengwi Tjokerda Sakti Blambangan dengan arsitek yang berasal dari cina. Awalnya pura ini didirikan karena pura2 yang saat itu tersedia jaraknya terlalu jauh untuk dijangkau oleh masyarakat Mengwi.
Mengutip pemaparan sebuah sumber, Pura Taman Ayun dibangun pada abad 17 (konon dibangun tahun 1634) oleh raja pertama Kerajaan Mengwi Tjokerda Sakti Blambangan dengan arsitek yang berasal dari cina. Awalnya pura ini didirikan karena pura2 yang saat itu tersedia jaraknya terlalu jauh untuk dijangkau oleh masyarakat Mengwi.
Saturday 9 August 2008
Kuta Market
JL BAKUNG Sari ( Kuta )
Art Market
Market Entrance
Kuta Art Market is a typical market in Bali. Its a great place to wander at sunset.
You can enter the market from Kuta Beach or via the entrance at the Tuban end of Kuta Square.
Although it has a great quantity of shops selling the same articles, you have a huge bartering power. You will find T-shirts, long / short pants , sarongs , shirts ( copy name brands and Hawaiian styles ) shoes, wood carvings, belts, kites just about everything you will need for you stay in bali or your poor friends back home.
market isles
Friendly faces Miles of shoes
You will find street hawkers around the outside of the market pedaling fake watches, caps, belts, lighters and anything else they can find. Make sure you barter hard and if they ask for dollars it is US dollars they want. ( see my shopping page for hints on Bartering )
Night hawker with watches Watches
A short strole along JL Kartika Plaza, away from Kuta square, you will find some great eating and some familiar signs
nearby shops All star surf Cafe
In the shopping complex on the left hand side away from Kuta Market and on the top floor, is the "All Star Surf Cafe" A regular haunt for the teenagers and young at heart. This Bar / Restaurant is famous for its "Sudo Sumo wrestling" and friendly atmosphere.
Or perhaps a pleasant, slow horse and cart ride back to your hotel.
( IF staying in the Legian / Kuta / Tuban area )
Horse and cart
Art Market
Market Entrance
Kuta Art Market is a typical market in Bali. Its a great place to wander at sunset.
You can enter the market from Kuta Beach or via the entrance at the Tuban end of Kuta Square.
Although it has a great quantity of shops selling the same articles, you have a huge bartering power. You will find T-shirts, long / short pants , sarongs , shirts ( copy name brands and Hawaiian styles ) shoes, wood carvings, belts, kites just about everything you will need for you stay in bali or your poor friends back home.
market isles
Friendly faces Miles of shoes
You will find street hawkers around the outside of the market pedaling fake watches, caps, belts, lighters and anything else they can find. Make sure you barter hard and if they ask for dollars it is US dollars they want. ( see my shopping page for hints on Bartering )
Night hawker with watches Watches
A short strole along JL Kartika Plaza, away from Kuta square, you will find some great eating and some familiar signs
nearby shops All star surf Cafe
In the shopping complex on the left hand side away from Kuta Market and on the top floor, is the "All Star Surf Cafe" A regular haunt for the teenagers and young at heart. This Bar / Restaurant is famous for its "Sudo Sumo wrestling" and friendly atmosphere.
Or perhaps a pleasant, slow horse and cart ride back to your hotel.
( IF staying in the Legian / Kuta / Tuban area )
Horse and cart
Friday 8 August 2008
Around Bali
Most international visitors arrive by air, either directly or via Jakarta, though island hoppers can catch frequent ferries from the neighbouring islands of Java and Lombok. There are direct flights to Jakarta and Bali from major airline hubs in Asia such as Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong. There are direct flights from major Australian cities. The departure tax on international flights is about US$10.00 . Bali is well connected to most of Indonesia and has direct domestic flights to Java, Lombok and outlying islands on a daily basis. Fares have increased considerably in recent years but are still good value. Domestic departure tax is US$2.00 Transport from Ngurah Rai international airport, 2.5km (1.5mi) south of Kuta, is quite simple. Pay a set price at the airport taxi counter, or walk across the airport car park and hail a metered cab outside the airport's roadway exit. The impecunious (and lightly laden) can walk straight up the road to Kuta, although it's a more pleasant stroll along the beach. A ferry shuttles constantly between the western Balinese port of Gilimanuk and Ketapang in eastern Java. Boat/bus combination tickets between Denpasar and Javanese cities can be purchased. Ferries between the eastern Balinese port of Padangbai and Lembar on the west coast of Lombok depart throughout the day. A few ferries link Bali with other Indonesian islands.
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Getting Around
The main forms of public transport on Bali are the cheap buses and bemos that run on more or less set routes within or between towns. If you want your own transport, you can charter a bemo or rent a car, motorcycle or bicycle. The Balinese drive on the left, use their horns a lot and give way to traffic pulling onto the road. Tourist shuttle buses, running between the major tourist centres, are more expensive than public transport but are also more comfortable and convenient.
Back to top ^
Getting Around
The main forms of public transport on Bali are the cheap buses and bemos that run on more or less set routes within or between towns. If you want your own transport, you can charter a bemo or rent a car, motorcycle or bicycle. The Balinese drive on the left, use their horns a lot and give way to traffic pulling onto the road. Tourist shuttle buses, running between the major tourist centres, are more expensive than public transport but are also more comfortable and convenient.
Wednesday 6 August 2008
BALI PRIVATE VACATION VILLAS
Trained Spa Therapists Available Whenever Needed.
Car & Driver from Your Arrival until Departure.
Delicious Food Prepared by Your Private Chef.
24-hour Butler Service to Arrange Anything You Need.
Bali Holidays and Vacation Villas in Bali Indonesia
From the moment you arrive in Bali, you'll enjoy the friendly welcome of your private driver, your personal Butler and Balinese house staff, and the comfort and informality of staying in your own villa in Bali.
You can relax and totally unwind together with your family in spacious, comfortably furnished living & dining areas and large air-conditioned bedrooms. And you'll enjoy the tropical garden and the privacy around your own swimming pool (very important for many Asian ladies).
This will be a Bali vacation totally different from staying at impersonal and over-priced "luxury" hotels & resorts – it's an experience you'll never forget!
Car & Driver from Your Arrival until Departure.
Delicious Food Prepared by Your Private Chef.
24-hour Butler Service to Arrange Anything You Need.
Bali Holidays and Vacation Villas in Bali Indonesia
From the moment you arrive in Bali, you'll enjoy the friendly welcome of your private driver, your personal Butler and Balinese house staff, and the comfort and informality of staying in your own villa in Bali.
You can relax and totally unwind together with your family in spacious, comfortably furnished living & dining areas and large air-conditioned bedrooms. And you'll enjoy the tropical garden and the privacy around your own swimming pool (very important for many Asian ladies).
This will be a Bali vacation totally different from staying at impersonal and over-priced "luxury" hotels & resorts – it's an experience you'll never forget!
Bali Dreamland Villa
Dreamland Villa is an isolated villa located in Ungasan, south of Bali . Not only is it isolated, it is also very private with only 39 villas to spare. This peaceful refuge screams privacy, and those who are seeking for a more entertaining holiday might want to skip this option as its remote location doesn't make for a very exciting experience. It is though, an ideal location for honeymooners and couples looking to spend some quiet time away from the chaos of the outside world.
Opening its doors in July 2005, Dreamland Villa is one of the newer villas in the area and it shows as the interior and exterior are still pristine. The lobby area is relatively small compared to many but the welcome service is enough to make up for it. A refreshing tropical welcome drink and a cold towel is exactly what is needed after the long, winding and somewhat bumpy drive to its premises.
The villas comprise of one, two and three bedroom accommodations, all of which are fully equipped with the conveniences needed. The interior of each room is traditionally fashioned without compromising luxury and comfort. All the comforts of modern technology such as a flat screen 29” TV with in house movie and cable channels, home theatre system with DVD player, coffee and tea making facilities, shower jet massage, electronic bidet/toilet and many more to come with each villa. Its most interesting feature would be the private pool, the landscaped gardens and the Balinese gazebo that comes with it. With features like that, there's not much need to leave the comforts of the villa during your stay.
But what is Bali without the beach and it is exactly that which handicaps Dreamland Villa for it is not a beach front property. Walking by the beach or sunbathing would require one to travel 5-10 minutes by shuttle to Bali 's infamous Dreamland beach, known to many as surfers paradise. Might seem like a hassle, but the scenic drive will probably keep you occupied throughout the journey. Dreamland beach is relatively secluded and rather untouched and has managed to retain most of its natural beauty because of its remote location.
SD's verdict on Dreamland Villa
If you're looking for an isolated, private and peaceful place that has the perfect setting for a romantic honeymoon, Dreamland Villa would definitely be on the top of the list. Being far flung from the happenings of the island wouldn't be an issue once you're engrossed in all the luxuries of the villas. The villas are relatively large and spacious enough to accommodate the Von Trapp family and it has all the basic necessities minus the grand piano.
Opening its doors in July 2005, Dreamland Villa is one of the newer villas in the area and it shows as the interior and exterior are still pristine. The lobby area is relatively small compared to many but the welcome service is enough to make up for it. A refreshing tropical welcome drink and a cold towel is exactly what is needed after the long, winding and somewhat bumpy drive to its premises.
The villas comprise of one, two and three bedroom accommodations, all of which are fully equipped with the conveniences needed. The interior of each room is traditionally fashioned without compromising luxury and comfort. All the comforts of modern technology such as a flat screen 29” TV with in house movie and cable channels, home theatre system with DVD player, coffee and tea making facilities, shower jet massage, electronic bidet/toilet and many more to come with each villa. Its most interesting feature would be the private pool, the landscaped gardens and the Balinese gazebo that comes with it. With features like that, there's not much need to leave the comforts of the villa during your stay.
But what is Bali without the beach and it is exactly that which handicaps Dreamland Villa for it is not a beach front property. Walking by the beach or sunbathing would require one to travel 5-10 minutes by shuttle to Bali 's infamous Dreamland beach, known to many as surfers paradise. Might seem like a hassle, but the scenic drive will probably keep you occupied throughout the journey. Dreamland beach is relatively secluded and rather untouched and has managed to retain most of its natural beauty because of its remote location.
SD's verdict on Dreamland Villa
If you're looking for an isolated, private and peaceful place that has the perfect setting for a romantic honeymoon, Dreamland Villa would definitely be on the top of the list. Being far flung from the happenings of the island wouldn't be an issue once you're engrossed in all the luxuries of the villas. The villas are relatively large and spacious enough to accommodate the Von Trapp family and it has all the basic necessities minus the grand piano.
Friday 1 August 2008
Balinese culture stong in ubud
One could argue that Balinese culture is strong all over Bali. I don’t dispute that, but here in Ubud it seems the ceremonies are performed with more grandeur and people don’t do things by half measures. Arriving today on Jl. Kajeng, the first thing that greeted us was a line of Balinese women carrying bantens of fruit on their heads. Asia snapped a few photos, and thinking about it, its a great thing that these stereotypical images of Bali are real and happen all over the island, everyday.
Strolling down Jl. Raya Ubud, the busy main street I snapped a couple of older Balinese people in traditional dress. One was an older man, the other a lady who owned a basket shop, just down from Cafe Lotus. It will be a shame when Bali ends up like Java and other parts of the country, where jeans and t-shirts become the norm and sarongs are reserved for wedding and funerals.
Strolling down Jl. Raya Ubud, the busy main street I snapped a couple of older Balinese people in traditional dress. One was an older man, the other a lady who owned a basket shop, just down from Cafe Lotus. It will be a shame when Bali ends up like Java and other parts of the country, where jeans and t-shirts become the norm and sarongs are reserved for wedding and funerals.
Friday 25 July 2008
Hotels in Tanah Lot & Other Tabanan Area
Tanah Lot, one of the most popular places of interest in Bali, is located on the coast of West Bali, at the village of Beraban in the Tabanan Regency. It is also called Tanah Lot which means 'ancient land' and also 'Tanah Lot', which means the land to the south.
The temple Pura Tanah Lot, simple in its construction, is dramatic in its ocean-front location and is one of the main temples in the worship of Balinese gods. Tanah Lot has a long history in the world of tourism. The temple itself is built on a small promontory which is only accessible at low tide. During high water the rock takes on the appearance of a large boat at sea, such is its shape.
Poisonous snakes live in the nearby caves to ‘guard’ the temple and contribute to the temple’s dangerous reputation. Sunset is the best time to visit Tanah lot, when the golden red skies frame the temple and waves crash into the rocks. It is advisable to avoid the tourist crush here as it can be severe.
The temple Pura Tanah Lot, simple in its construction, is dramatic in its ocean-front location and is one of the main temples in the worship of Balinese gods. Tanah Lot has a long history in the world of tourism. The temple itself is built on a small promontory which is only accessible at low tide. During high water the rock takes on the appearance of a large boat at sea, such is its shape.
Poisonous snakes live in the nearby caves to ‘guard’ the temple and contribute to the temple’s dangerous reputation. Sunset is the best time to visit Tanah lot, when the golden red skies frame the temple and waves crash into the rocks. It is advisable to avoid the tourist crush here as it can be severe.
Thursday 24 July 2008
Tailor Made Tour
Uluwatu Temple
The temple of Pura Luhur Uluwatu is perched high on the southern-most cliff of Bali's coast. It is one of Bali's six most-revered places of worship, and is thought to date back to the 10th Century.
The wandering Hindu priest Nirartha is said to have chosen Uluwatu as the place for " Moksa", deliverance from this life, to join the ancestral spirits in heaven, and indeed it is a place where the spirit soars. Enjoy fruit punch cocktails served in pineapple or young coconut fruits while you witness the spectacular sunset. The performance of a Kecak dance will be held on the private cliff, at the time of sunset, while a tribe of monkeys clamber up the cliffs to investigate the activities in the temple.
The program will conclude with a typical dinner at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. An open air dinner, or dinner under a tent at the street theatre (Natah) with the Garuda Wisnu statue as the anchor point, or a full moon dinner at Café Biu with a view of the southern coast of Bali, can all be arranged.
The temple of Pura Luhur Uluwatu is perched high on the southern-most cliff of Bali's coast. It is one of Bali's six most-revered places of worship, and is thought to date back to the 10th Century.
The wandering Hindu priest Nirartha is said to have chosen Uluwatu as the place for " Moksa", deliverance from this life, to join the ancestral spirits in heaven, and indeed it is a place where the spirit soars. Enjoy fruit punch cocktails served in pineapple or young coconut fruits while you witness the spectacular sunset. The performance of a Kecak dance will be held on the private cliff, at the time of sunset, while a tribe of monkeys clamber up the cliffs to investigate the activities in the temple.
The program will conclude with a typical dinner at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. An open air dinner, or dinner under a tent at the street theatre (Natah) with the Garuda Wisnu statue as the anchor point, or a full moon dinner at Café Biu with a view of the southern coast of Bali, can all be arranged.
Tuesday 22 July 2008
Bali Art & Dance
Baris Dance
Baris Dance Just as the Legong is essentially feminine, Baris, atraditional wardance, glorifies the man hood of the t...
Barong Landung Dance
The giant puppet dance take place annually on the island of Pulau Serangan and a few other places in southern Bali.
Gatot Kaca Statue
This statue was built in 1993, located at the center of road intersection at the northeast of Bali International Airport...
Kebyar Dance
It's a male solo dance like the Baris but with greater emphasis on the performer's individual abilities. There are vario...
Keris Dance
In the Barong play, Bali's mythical guardian, Barong, battles Rangda, the demon - Queen. barong's supporters are a group...
Painting
Ubud Style
influenced by the Western use of perspective and everyday-life subject matter, the Ub...
Puri Lukisan / Gallery
The Museum Lukisan Ratna Warta, usually called the Puri Lukisan (the palce of painting), was opened in 1953. Set amongst...
Textiles
One of the most striking things about Bali is the rich variety of cloths and materials that are to be seen in thousands ...
Topeng Dance
A mask dance where the dancers have to imitate the character represented by mask. A full collection of Topeng masks may ...
Barong and Rangda Dance
The natural world to the Balinese is one held in balance by two opposing forces: the benign, beneficial to man, and the ...
Carving
Stone Carving
Stone carvings were mainly used to decorate temple and palaces and the carvers had much more leeway...
Jangger Dance
The flute begins an eerie tune, and faraway voices chant a strange song that flows from a loud melody to a nearly inaudi...
Jauk Dance
The Jauk Dance As a classical solo performance expressing the movements of a demon, Jauk is derived from a traditiona...
Kecak Dance
The dark expanse of the banyan tree above the temple gate casts a dense shadow on the courtyard and the carvings that fl...
Legong Keraton Dance
In legends, Legong is the heavenly dance of divine nymphs. Of all classical Balinese dances, it remains the quintessence...
Pendet Dance
Pendet is the presentation of an offering in theform of a ritual dance. Unlike the exhibition dances that demand arduous...
Ramayana Ballet
Basically, it tells the same story of Rama and Sita as told in the Kechak but without the monkey ensemble and with a nor...
The Gamelan
Balinese music is based around an instrument known as the gamelan. The gamelan is such a central part of Balinese music ... Topeng Dance
A mask dance where the dancers have to imitate the character represented by mask. A full collection of Topeng masks may ...
Baris Dance Just as the Legong is essentially feminine, Baris, atraditional wardance, glorifies the man hood of the t...
Barong Landung Dance
The giant puppet dance take place annually on the island of Pulau Serangan and a few other places in southern Bali.
Gatot Kaca Statue
This statue was built in 1993, located at the center of road intersection at the northeast of Bali International Airport...
Kebyar Dance
It's a male solo dance like the Baris but with greater emphasis on the performer's individual abilities. There are vario...
Keris Dance
In the Barong play, Bali's mythical guardian, Barong, battles Rangda, the demon - Queen. barong's supporters are a group...
Painting
Ubud Style
influenced by the Western use of perspective and everyday-life subject matter, the Ub...
Puri Lukisan / Gallery
The Museum Lukisan Ratna Warta, usually called the Puri Lukisan (the palce of painting), was opened in 1953. Set amongst...
Textiles
One of the most striking things about Bali is the rich variety of cloths and materials that are to be seen in thousands ...
Topeng Dance
A mask dance where the dancers have to imitate the character represented by mask. A full collection of Topeng masks may ...
Barong and Rangda Dance
The natural world to the Balinese is one held in balance by two opposing forces: the benign, beneficial to man, and the ...
Carving
Stone Carving
Stone carvings were mainly used to decorate temple and palaces and the carvers had much more leeway...
Jangger Dance
The flute begins an eerie tune, and faraway voices chant a strange song that flows from a loud melody to a nearly inaudi...
Jauk Dance
The Jauk Dance As a classical solo performance expressing the movements of a demon, Jauk is derived from a traditiona...
Kecak Dance
The dark expanse of the banyan tree above the temple gate casts a dense shadow on the courtyard and the carvings that fl...
Legong Keraton Dance
In legends, Legong is the heavenly dance of divine nymphs. Of all classical Balinese dances, it remains the quintessence...
Pendet Dance
Pendet is the presentation of an offering in theform of a ritual dance. Unlike the exhibition dances that demand arduous...
Ramayana Ballet
Basically, it tells the same story of Rama and Sita as told in the Kechak but without the monkey ensemble and with a nor...
The Gamelan
Balinese music is based around an instrument known as the gamelan. The gamelan is such a central part of Balinese music ... Topeng Dance
A mask dance where the dancers have to imitate the character represented by mask. A full collection of Topeng masks may ...
Dreamland Beach Bali
dreamland baliDreamland is a white elephant, donated to the people of Bali by Tomy Suharto. Actually it wasn’t really donated, it was grabbed, mangled, then taken back. Riding along Jl. Uluwatu on the Bukit, one passes a grand looking entrance complete with statute. A long 4 lane road takes you down towards the coast, passing construction that seems to be frozen in time. ‘Is this place on the way up, or on the way down?’ you might ask. When I arrived in Bali in 2003, the place was on the way down, with locals manning a barrier, demanding a fee from vehicles accessing the beach. They were replaced by soldiers, who themselves tried, on occasion, to get a fee. Yesterday it was the security staff of the new resort construction company, who waved at us as we sped past.
Before all this nonsense began, Dreamland was the biggest white-sand beach on the Bukit. The beach is still in good shape and there are maybe 20 warungs there too. Construction is in full swing, at the point on the 4-lane road that branches off to Dreamland beach. Devin and I had to ride through road construction, over slick mud and then down the heavily rutted slope to the parking area. It is possible to get bikes and cars down almost to the beach.
Around 4.30rp yesterday the tide was in and surfers were getting decent swell. “Definitely not a place for snorkeling,” said Devin. Finding a shady warung, we slipped a soda each and admired the crashing wave in front of us. The scorching sun didn’t entice me out onto the sand, although many tourists were making good use of it. Sunshades were available for hire also. Our drinks (diet Coke and a Sprite) cost 17,000rp.
Dreamland has a sandy bottom, the surf coming in rather flat, so this isn’t a top notch surf break, but okay for beginners / intermediates, depending on the day. We watched 2 local kids aged around 6 dive into pumping surf with their body boards. Another 2 came over to us, laughing and checking us out.
Before all this nonsense began, Dreamland was the biggest white-sand beach on the Bukit. The beach is still in good shape and there are maybe 20 warungs there too. Construction is in full swing, at the point on the 4-lane road that branches off to Dreamland beach. Devin and I had to ride through road construction, over slick mud and then down the heavily rutted slope to the parking area. It is possible to get bikes and cars down almost to the beach.
Around 4.30rp yesterday the tide was in and surfers were getting decent swell. “Definitely not a place for snorkeling,” said Devin. Finding a shady warung, we slipped a soda each and admired the crashing wave in front of us. The scorching sun didn’t entice me out onto the sand, although many tourists were making good use of it. Sunshades were available for hire also. Our drinks (diet Coke and a Sprite) cost 17,000rp.
Dreamland has a sandy bottom, the surf coming in rather flat, so this isn’t a top notch surf break, but okay for beginners / intermediates, depending on the day. We watched 2 local kids aged around 6 dive into pumping surf with their body boards. Another 2 came over to us, laughing and checking us out.
Dreamland bali
Types of Beaches in Bali:
Bali is a volcanic island and as such has a selection of black sand beaches, most notably on the east coast, the north coast and the west coast. White sand beaches can be found on the Bukit Peninsula, Sanur, Nusa Lembongan and a few select places in East Bali, such as Padangbai and Candi Dasa.
• South Bali Beaches:
Sun, sea and surf, or whatever triple combo tickles your fancy, is easily available since hotels in Tuban, Kuta, Legian and Seminyak are built on the beach. Crazy vendors may not be your kettle of fish, or maybe you are looking to meet a Kuta Cowboy, whatever your goals here is a quick look at some local beaches.
• Kuta Beach: Good for getting a taste of the Bali vibe. Busy with vendors, tourists and locals. Food and drinks widely available, shade under trees close to the street and nice sandy beach. Perfect place to learn to surf. This is the place where foreign females hook up with local guys. Not a good beach if you want peace and quiet.
• Kuta Halfway: Located straight up the street from the main part of Kuta beach. Way less people, less service and less shade. Good for more peace and quiet without walking too far. Sand still decently light colored.
• Blue Ocean Beach:
Located at the end of Jl. Double Six, takes 15 minutes from Kuta. Very busy afternoon scene. Plenty of bars and decent places to eat. This area features people playing bat and ball games. There is a gay volleyball pit and this is the beach where foreign guys come to hook up with local ladies. The sand is a brown color. Best food Zanzibar, best beer, Blue Ocean, best place to meet ladies on the beach under one of the drinks stands.
• Pantai Gado Gado:
At the end of Jl. Dhyana Pura is Gado Gado restaurant. A high end place with a beach front patio. If you have money to spend and want an elegant environment, Gado Gado will work. For a cheaper option close by, go 100 meters back up Jl. Dhyana Pura to Cin Cin restaurant (part of Puri Cendana hotel). You can get a club sandwich for 35,000rp. Keep going down Jl. Dhyana Pura towards Jl. Legian and you’ll hit a slew of places to eat, including Santa Fe (western food), Warung Mimpi (Indonesian food) and C’Bo (Italian food), all cheap / mid range. A north distance to the west in Ku De Ta restaurant, located at the end of Jl. Oberoi, another great place to enjoy a beach-side breakfast or sunset drink. Pantai Gado Gado is popular with locals and expats for playing with the family and walking.
• Echo Beach Canggu:
Takes 35 minutes from Kuta. Beach is virtually deserted, very few vendors, good surf and a great place called The Beach House serving good beer and food. Great Sunday night bbq’s. Don’t swim on this beach because of the rips.
• Pantai Seseh Canggu:
Pantai Seseh is reached by following the main road Jl. Raya Canggu) towards Canggu. Reaching the big tree at the intersection in Munggu, with the sate sellers camped out and attracting locals, you hang a left towards the coast. The next 10 minutes are a dream come true as far as lovely quiet sawah. Looking around you’ll see no villas, few shops and views of the coast. The beach itself is nothing to shout about and locals with gather before sunset to gaze at the waves and the setting sun. Pantai Seseh is rugged and windswept, with dark volcanic sand.
• Pantai Berawa Canggu:
Pantai Berawa is a local beach that is reasonably close to Kuta. Sand is a light brown, fairly clean. There is low scrub and trees at the back of the beach, but not the swaying palms some people associate with paradise. Pantai Berawa, and the whole Canggu beach area is windy and part of the attraction is watching the waves crash in. Sipping an iced tea at Legong Keraton is very pleasant and relaxing. Souvenir vendors hang around the entrance to the beach, but on the beach its pretty deserted.
jimbaran • Jimbaran Beach:
Jimbaran Bay lies just south of the airport in Tuban and the Four Seasons hotel. Jimbaran beach has yellow sand and the waves are not too big for swimmers. Although this beach still has a sleepy fishing village feel there are great food places and more springing up. A friend of mine was there recently and recommended the excellent food that is available on the beach.
• Sanur Beach:
Located 2 miles SE of Denpasar, Sanur Beach has a lagoon that makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There’s a mixture of traditional village life and tourist accommodation which varies between traditional style and luxury. This place is way more relaxed than Kuta.
• Semawang Beach:
Semawang Beach in the southern part of Sanur is protected from waves and offers a safe place for families. Located at the beach is Stiff Chili restaurant.
• North Bali Beaches:
• Lovina Beach:
Lovina is located on the north shore of the island and has a volcanic grey sand beach. It’s definitely a different scene from the spendy hotels down on the south side of the island and is a good place to chill out for a while. You will probably be offered an early morning dolphin watching boat ride. Take my advice and decline. Twenty boats powering after four dolphins isn’t my idea of fun.
• Bukit Beaches:
The Bukit is a limestone plateau and the beaches are a pale yellow / white sand. The largest beaches on the Bukit are in Nusa Dua on the eastern side of the Bukit. Dreamland has the largest beach on the western side.
One of the best Bali beaches, is at the very southern end of the Bukit. Looking at a map, you ride up the hill from Jimbaran, heading to Uluwatu. Instead of turning west, you keep going straight south, towards Pura Masuka. This temple is tiny and is perched on a cliff-top, overlooking the ocean. Directly in front of it is a hiking trail that leads you down to the beach, which is usually empty. The hike takes about 15 minutes.
• Ulu Watu & Padang Padang:
Hang around surfers and these two places will come up often. Ulu Watu was Bali’s first famous break and although isn’t developed for luxury tourists is getting more crowded. Located at the very south of the island on western edge of Bukit Badung (that bit that sticks out) Ulu Watu is a chill place to relax, visit the temple and watch the surfers.
• Dreamland Beach: Located on the Bukit peninsula, takes 25 minutes from Kuta. Good for low end surfers who like a beach break, people who like the simple beach-side warungs and a lower stress scene. There are about 20 warungs serving food and drinks, surf board rental in the high season. Vendors generally leave you alone. No shade other than inside a warung. Lovely sandy beach.
padang padang • Padang Padang:
Around the point to the left is Uluwatu, around the next point is Padang Padang. You could actually walk around during low tide. For this article we’ll refer to the beach as Ulu-Padang. The beach has decent sand, with a coral reef protecting the beach from big waves. When the tide is out it might not look so great, but when the tide is in you’ll be able to swim. This is Bali so remember to proceed with care as currents can be strong. Bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat. The only shade is the densely packed trees at the back of the beach.
•Nusa Dua:
Great lagoon and white sandy beaches. There is a heavy build up of luxury hotels and resorts but there are also local warungs offering cheap food.
• Pantai Geger:
Pantai Geger is located on the eastern side of the Bukit Peninsula. Pantai Geger is ideal for families with young kids, as the beach is protected from waves and is comfortable.
• Pura Tegalwangi:
Adding to the ever growing list of ’secret beaches’ we can find in Bali is the secluded white sand beach at Pura Tegalwangi, on the Bukit peninsula. You’ve probably never heard of that temple and it’s certainly not one of the most famous in Bali. The great thing about the beach, which is adjacent to the temple, is that tourists don’t go there. This is for a couple of reasons including 1) they don’t know its there, 2) there are plenty of other beaches closer to Kuta. So if you are looking for a quiet, unspoilt beach with no one else around the beach at Pura Tegalwangi might work for you.
• East Bali Beaches:
• Padangbai:
Padangbai is a fishing village located on the SE coast approximately 40 miles from Kuta. The snorkeling is quite good and there are locals offering jet skis and other water sport activities.
Padangbai sits at the end of a road running off of the Klungkung-Candi Dasa main road. There is a busy main beach and 2 much quieter beaches. The first, Blue Lagoon, is accessed by heading to the far left of the main beach and hiking 10 minutes up and over the hill, dropping down onto a white sand beach with a couple of warungs. This is a good place to snorkel and dive boats come here. You might want to hire a boat to take you snorkeling for safety. The second beach, Biastugal is also called Pantai Kecil (small beach), and is located on the other side of the ferry terminal. You can’t see it from the main beach, and the only way I knew it was there, was by taking the ferry to Lombok, looking back and seeing it.
• Pantai Kecil is accessed by walking through town round the back of the ferry terminal, up the hill and down to the beach. From downtown it takes 15 minutes. Here you will find several warungs, a pleasant beach with yellow / white sand and some beach vendors. Pantai Kecil is easily the best beach in Padangbai and the level of harassment isn’t too bad.
beach •Candi Dasa:
Candi Dasa used to have a good beach, but it washed away, because the locals destroyed the reef for lime. That is a well known story. Between Senkidu to the west and Candi Dasa, there is a small section of beach. The main road runs very close to the shore in this part of Bali and its easy to stop and take a look. In the evenings, young Balinese like to park their bikes and chat here, its the local hangout scene. The Lotus Restaurant has a nice little chunk of beach next to it, a low tide anyway. Lotus Restaurant is right there at the entrance to the Candi Dasa main street. At the far end of the main street, Forest Rd. curves to the left and heads off into the boonies. If you keep going straight, you will drive down what feels like a quite lane, but one that is lined with small hotels. There is also a sign saying ‘The Beach’, which you follow. The sign directs you through a nice boutique hotel. No problem to walk through and access the beach, which is very nice.
•Pasir Putih:
What Pasir Putih offers is an almost pristine white sand beach, with little development, in a tropical setting. Drive East from Kuta towards Sanur. Take the Kusamba Bypass to East Bali. Follow the coastal road past Candi Dasa. When you come to Perasi, slow down and ask locals for ‘Pasir Putih’. Driving time from Kuta: 2.5 hours.
•Lipah Beach Amed:
East Bali is probably the closest thing a tourist will got to the ‘real Bali’. To be honest, tourists aren’t looking for the ‘real Bali’ anymore than they would want a ‘deserted beach’. We’re looking for postcard landscapes, with elegant locals…and enough creature comforts to keep us happy. East Bali has all these and the Amed area, location the far SE coast is a very laid back, tranquil area.
Location: East Bali, far south east coast
Travelling time from Kuta: 4 hours
Accommodation: Budget & boutique
Restaurants: Budget / mid range
Nightlife: None to speak of except the occasion joged dance.
Activities: Snorkeling / diving
Internet access: Yes. Slow.
Closest big town: Amlapura
Closest western location: Candi Dasa
Lipah beach is the most developed beach in the area (although still very peaceful), located around 10km from Culik. There’s accommodation at Hidden Paradise and slightly after this, Coral View. Both places have large, well-furnished bungalows in lush gardens with pools next to the beach.
• West Bali Beaches:
•Candikusumah:
Driving east from Gilimanuk towards Kuta, one will pass through the kecamatan (municipal border) of Melaya. Along this stretch of road are many small potholes so one is advised to stay alert, as each 20 meter section of road appears to be made by a different person. On the beach side of the road is a sign indicating the beach at Candikusumah. This is accessed by a narrow lane just 100 meters long. The black sand beach here is nothing to shout about, but might be good for a rest stop or a quick dip in the ocean.
•Pantai Rening:
Around 15km east of Candikusumah heading into Negara, is a junction sign pointing the way to Cupel. On this corner are various local warungs offering masakan Muslim (Muslim food) and sate ayam (chicken satay). Take this road south to the first junction and head right to the end. Around 4kms away from the road is Pantai Rening, another sweeping black sand bay. There is a sizable local hotel (Hapel Beach Resort) at the end of the road, with security and what appears to be decent grounds. This place is off of the western tourist radar, and might be a change from Medewi for a place to stay on the coast in west Bali.
Bali Dreamland beaches
•Yeh Gangga:
Yeh Gangga beach is 10km SW of Tabanan. The attraction of this area is natural beauty, with rice fields leading down to the beach, volcanoes in the distance and a rugged, empty coastline. Yeh Gangga beach, like many of the beaches on the SW coast, is not suitable for swimming, due to the currents and lack of any emergency services. When its low tide, the beach is quite wide and easy to walk on, there are not many places to buy food / drinks, although Yeh Gangga beach itself has a few very basic places.
Places to stay in Yeh Gangga include Bali Wisata Bungalows , and the expensive Waka Gangga . Bibi’s (081 361 0914)is another small place, that is located at Pusat Beach, to the west of Yeh Gangga. This is the simplest and cheapest option. Staying in Yeh Gangga, renting a scooter and slowly exploring the countryside, meeting locals etc. would be a lovely way to go. This area has a touch of East Bali, slow paced and removed from the tourist scene.
Bali is a volcanic island and as such has a selection of black sand beaches, most notably on the east coast, the north coast and the west coast. White sand beaches can be found on the Bukit Peninsula, Sanur, Nusa Lembongan and a few select places in East Bali, such as Padangbai and Candi Dasa.
• South Bali Beaches:
Sun, sea and surf, or whatever triple combo tickles your fancy, is easily available since hotels in Tuban, Kuta, Legian and Seminyak are built on the beach. Crazy vendors may not be your kettle of fish, or maybe you are looking to meet a Kuta Cowboy, whatever your goals here is a quick look at some local beaches.
• Kuta Beach: Good for getting a taste of the Bali vibe. Busy with vendors, tourists and locals. Food and drinks widely available, shade under trees close to the street and nice sandy beach. Perfect place to learn to surf. This is the place where foreign females hook up with local guys. Not a good beach if you want peace and quiet.
• Kuta Halfway: Located straight up the street from the main part of Kuta beach. Way less people, less service and less shade. Good for more peace and quiet without walking too far. Sand still decently light colored.
• Blue Ocean Beach:
Located at the end of Jl. Double Six, takes 15 minutes from Kuta. Very busy afternoon scene. Plenty of bars and decent places to eat. This area features people playing bat and ball games. There is a gay volleyball pit and this is the beach where foreign guys come to hook up with local ladies. The sand is a brown color. Best food Zanzibar, best beer, Blue Ocean, best place to meet ladies on the beach under one of the drinks stands.
• Pantai Gado Gado:
At the end of Jl. Dhyana Pura is Gado Gado restaurant. A high end place with a beach front patio. If you have money to spend and want an elegant environment, Gado Gado will work. For a cheaper option close by, go 100 meters back up Jl. Dhyana Pura to Cin Cin restaurant (part of Puri Cendana hotel). You can get a club sandwich for 35,000rp. Keep going down Jl. Dhyana Pura towards Jl. Legian and you’ll hit a slew of places to eat, including Santa Fe (western food), Warung Mimpi (Indonesian food) and C’Bo (Italian food), all cheap / mid range. A north distance to the west in Ku De Ta restaurant, located at the end of Jl. Oberoi, another great place to enjoy a beach-side breakfast or sunset drink. Pantai Gado Gado is popular with locals and expats for playing with the family and walking.
• Echo Beach Canggu:
Takes 35 minutes from Kuta. Beach is virtually deserted, very few vendors, good surf and a great place called The Beach House serving good beer and food. Great Sunday night bbq’s. Don’t swim on this beach because of the rips.
• Pantai Seseh Canggu:
Pantai Seseh is reached by following the main road Jl. Raya Canggu) towards Canggu. Reaching the big tree at the intersection in Munggu, with the sate sellers camped out and attracting locals, you hang a left towards the coast. The next 10 minutes are a dream come true as far as lovely quiet sawah. Looking around you’ll see no villas, few shops and views of the coast. The beach itself is nothing to shout about and locals with gather before sunset to gaze at the waves and the setting sun. Pantai Seseh is rugged and windswept, with dark volcanic sand.
• Pantai Berawa Canggu:
Pantai Berawa is a local beach that is reasonably close to Kuta. Sand is a light brown, fairly clean. There is low scrub and trees at the back of the beach, but not the swaying palms some people associate with paradise. Pantai Berawa, and the whole Canggu beach area is windy and part of the attraction is watching the waves crash in. Sipping an iced tea at Legong Keraton is very pleasant and relaxing. Souvenir vendors hang around the entrance to the beach, but on the beach its pretty deserted.
jimbaran • Jimbaran Beach:
Jimbaran Bay lies just south of the airport in Tuban and the Four Seasons hotel. Jimbaran beach has yellow sand and the waves are not too big for swimmers. Although this beach still has a sleepy fishing village feel there are great food places and more springing up. A friend of mine was there recently and recommended the excellent food that is available on the beach.
• Sanur Beach:
Located 2 miles SE of Denpasar, Sanur Beach has a lagoon that makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There’s a mixture of traditional village life and tourist accommodation which varies between traditional style and luxury. This place is way more relaxed than Kuta.
• Semawang Beach:
Semawang Beach in the southern part of Sanur is protected from waves and offers a safe place for families. Located at the beach is Stiff Chili restaurant.
• North Bali Beaches:
• Lovina Beach:
Lovina is located on the north shore of the island and has a volcanic grey sand beach. It’s definitely a different scene from the spendy hotels down on the south side of the island and is a good place to chill out for a while. You will probably be offered an early morning dolphin watching boat ride. Take my advice and decline. Twenty boats powering after four dolphins isn’t my idea of fun.
• Bukit Beaches:
The Bukit is a limestone plateau and the beaches are a pale yellow / white sand. The largest beaches on the Bukit are in Nusa Dua on the eastern side of the Bukit. Dreamland has the largest beach on the western side.
One of the best Bali beaches, is at the very southern end of the Bukit. Looking at a map, you ride up the hill from Jimbaran, heading to Uluwatu. Instead of turning west, you keep going straight south, towards Pura Masuka. This temple is tiny and is perched on a cliff-top, overlooking the ocean. Directly in front of it is a hiking trail that leads you down to the beach, which is usually empty. The hike takes about 15 minutes.
• Ulu Watu & Padang Padang:
Hang around surfers and these two places will come up often. Ulu Watu was Bali’s first famous break and although isn’t developed for luxury tourists is getting more crowded. Located at the very south of the island on western edge of Bukit Badung (that bit that sticks out) Ulu Watu is a chill place to relax, visit the temple and watch the surfers.
• Dreamland Beach: Located on the Bukit peninsula, takes 25 minutes from Kuta. Good for low end surfers who like a beach break, people who like the simple beach-side warungs and a lower stress scene. There are about 20 warungs serving food and drinks, surf board rental in the high season. Vendors generally leave you alone. No shade other than inside a warung. Lovely sandy beach.
padang padang • Padang Padang:
Around the point to the left is Uluwatu, around the next point is Padang Padang. You could actually walk around during low tide. For this article we’ll refer to the beach as Ulu-Padang. The beach has decent sand, with a coral reef protecting the beach from big waves. When the tide is out it might not look so great, but when the tide is in you’ll be able to swim. This is Bali so remember to proceed with care as currents can be strong. Bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat. The only shade is the densely packed trees at the back of the beach.
•Nusa Dua:
Great lagoon and white sandy beaches. There is a heavy build up of luxury hotels and resorts but there are also local warungs offering cheap food.
• Pantai Geger:
Pantai Geger is located on the eastern side of the Bukit Peninsula. Pantai Geger is ideal for families with young kids, as the beach is protected from waves and is comfortable.
• Pura Tegalwangi:
Adding to the ever growing list of ’secret beaches’ we can find in Bali is the secluded white sand beach at Pura Tegalwangi, on the Bukit peninsula. You’ve probably never heard of that temple and it’s certainly not one of the most famous in Bali. The great thing about the beach, which is adjacent to the temple, is that tourists don’t go there. This is for a couple of reasons including 1) they don’t know its there, 2) there are plenty of other beaches closer to Kuta. So if you are looking for a quiet, unspoilt beach with no one else around the beach at Pura Tegalwangi might work for you.
• East Bali Beaches:
• Padangbai:
Padangbai is a fishing village located on the SE coast approximately 40 miles from Kuta. The snorkeling is quite good and there are locals offering jet skis and other water sport activities.
Padangbai sits at the end of a road running off of the Klungkung-Candi Dasa main road. There is a busy main beach and 2 much quieter beaches. The first, Blue Lagoon, is accessed by heading to the far left of the main beach and hiking 10 minutes up and over the hill, dropping down onto a white sand beach with a couple of warungs. This is a good place to snorkel and dive boats come here. You might want to hire a boat to take you snorkeling for safety. The second beach, Biastugal is also called Pantai Kecil (small beach), and is located on the other side of the ferry terminal. You can’t see it from the main beach, and the only way I knew it was there, was by taking the ferry to Lombok, looking back and seeing it.
• Pantai Kecil is accessed by walking through town round the back of the ferry terminal, up the hill and down to the beach. From downtown it takes 15 minutes. Here you will find several warungs, a pleasant beach with yellow / white sand and some beach vendors. Pantai Kecil is easily the best beach in Padangbai and the level of harassment isn’t too bad.
beach •Candi Dasa:
Candi Dasa used to have a good beach, but it washed away, because the locals destroyed the reef for lime. That is a well known story. Between Senkidu to the west and Candi Dasa, there is a small section of beach. The main road runs very close to the shore in this part of Bali and its easy to stop and take a look. In the evenings, young Balinese like to park their bikes and chat here, its the local hangout scene. The Lotus Restaurant has a nice little chunk of beach next to it, a low tide anyway. Lotus Restaurant is right there at the entrance to the Candi Dasa main street. At the far end of the main street, Forest Rd. curves to the left and heads off into the boonies. If you keep going straight, you will drive down what feels like a quite lane, but one that is lined with small hotels. There is also a sign saying ‘The Beach’, which you follow. The sign directs you through a nice boutique hotel. No problem to walk through and access the beach, which is very nice.
•Pasir Putih:
What Pasir Putih offers is an almost pristine white sand beach, with little development, in a tropical setting. Drive East from Kuta towards Sanur. Take the Kusamba Bypass to East Bali. Follow the coastal road past Candi Dasa. When you come to Perasi, slow down and ask locals for ‘Pasir Putih’. Driving time from Kuta: 2.5 hours.
•Lipah Beach Amed:
East Bali is probably the closest thing a tourist will got to the ‘real Bali’. To be honest, tourists aren’t looking for the ‘real Bali’ anymore than they would want a ‘deserted beach’. We’re looking for postcard landscapes, with elegant locals…and enough creature comforts to keep us happy. East Bali has all these and the Amed area, location the far SE coast is a very laid back, tranquil area.
Location: East Bali, far south east coast
Travelling time from Kuta: 4 hours
Accommodation: Budget & boutique
Restaurants: Budget / mid range
Nightlife: None to speak of except the occasion joged dance.
Activities: Snorkeling / diving
Internet access: Yes. Slow.
Closest big town: Amlapura
Closest western location: Candi Dasa
Lipah beach is the most developed beach in the area (although still very peaceful), located around 10km from Culik. There’s accommodation at Hidden Paradise and slightly after this, Coral View. Both places have large, well-furnished bungalows in lush gardens with pools next to the beach.
• West Bali Beaches:
•Candikusumah:
Driving east from Gilimanuk towards Kuta, one will pass through the kecamatan (municipal border) of Melaya. Along this stretch of road are many small potholes so one is advised to stay alert, as each 20 meter section of road appears to be made by a different person. On the beach side of the road is a sign indicating the beach at Candikusumah. This is accessed by a narrow lane just 100 meters long. The black sand beach here is nothing to shout about, but might be good for a rest stop or a quick dip in the ocean.
•Pantai Rening:
Around 15km east of Candikusumah heading into Negara, is a junction sign pointing the way to Cupel. On this corner are various local warungs offering masakan Muslim (Muslim food) and sate ayam (chicken satay). Take this road south to the first junction and head right to the end. Around 4kms away from the road is Pantai Rening, another sweeping black sand bay. There is a sizable local hotel (Hapel Beach Resort) at the end of the road, with security and what appears to be decent grounds. This place is off of the western tourist radar, and might be a change from Medewi for a place to stay on the coast in west Bali.
Bali Dreamland beaches
•Yeh Gangga:
Yeh Gangga beach is 10km SW of Tabanan. The attraction of this area is natural beauty, with rice fields leading down to the beach, volcanoes in the distance and a rugged, empty coastline. Yeh Gangga beach, like many of the beaches on the SW coast, is not suitable for swimming, due to the currents and lack of any emergency services. When its low tide, the beach is quite wide and easy to walk on, there are not many places to buy food / drinks, although Yeh Gangga beach itself has a few very basic places.
Places to stay in Yeh Gangga include Bali Wisata Bungalows , and the expensive Waka Gangga . Bibi’s (081 361 0914)is another small place, that is located at Pusat Beach, to the west of Yeh Gangga. This is the simplest and cheapest option. Staying in Yeh Gangga, renting a scooter and slowly exploring the countryside, meeting locals etc. would be a lovely way to go. This area has a touch of East Bali, slow paced and removed from the tourist scene.
Monday 21 July 2008
Tabanan Hot Spring
Tabanan Hot Spring
My recent visit to Tabanan was visiting the Hot Spring, one of the three hotsprings in the area. Located only 45 minutes from Denpasar, the area is easy to access with the car and is managed to become tourist destination.
pnb 046.jpg
Although not very popular among the foreign tourist, this place has been famous among domestic visitors to enjoy to pool with nice scenery of the River and rice terrace. They provide three pools; hot spring, hot spring with jacuzzi, and pool with cold water.
I also notice that they also rent several bungalows that directly look through the scenery.
Wednesday 16 July 2008
The Yoga Bali Meditation
yoga is wich one example from thausand people in bali, thats yoga, and it is my pic with a thausand shadow step for a powereds
by Imade Ananda yoga. Phone 085737159860, if you need teacher for do it, i will be teach you. ok....call me:) hehehe...
Tuesday 15 July 2008
Bali People and Culture
Each stage of Balinese life is marked by a series of ceremonies and rituals known as Manusa Yadnya. They contribute to the rich, varied and active life the average Balinese leads.
Birth
The first ceremony of Balinese life takes place even before birth. Another ceremony takes place soon after the birth, during which the afterbirth is buried with appropriate offerings. The first major ceremony takes place halfway through the baby's first Balinese year of 210 days.
Names
Basically the Balinese only have four first names. The first child is Wayan or Putu, the second child is Made or Kadek, the third is Nyoman or Komang and the fourth is Ketut. The fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth will be another Wayan, Made, Nyoman, Ketut and Wayan again.
Childhood
The Balinese certainly love children and they have plenty of them to prove it. Coping with a large family is made much easier by the policy of putting younger children in the care of older ones. After the ceremonies of babyhood come ceremonies marking the stages of childhood and puberty, including the important tooth-filing ceremony.
Marriage
Every Balinese expects to marry and raise a family, and marriage takes places at a comparatively young age. Marriages are not, in general, arranged as they are in many other Asian communities although strict rules apply to marriages between the castes. There are two basic forms of marriage in Bali - mapadik and ngorod. The respectable form, in which the family of the man visit the family of the woman and politely propose that the marriage take place, is mapadik. The Balinese, however, like their fun and often prefer marriage by elopement (ngorod) as the most exciting option. Of course, the Balinese are also a practical people so nobody is too surprised when the young man spirits away his bride-to-be, even if she loudly protests about being kidnapped. The couple go into hiding and somehow the girl's parents, no matter how assiduously they search, never manage to find her. Eventually the couple re-emerge, announce that it is too late to stop them now, the marriage is officially recognized and everybody has had a lot of fun and games. Marriage by elopement has another advantage apart from being exciting and mildly heroic it's cheaper.
The Household
There are many modern Balinese houses, but there are still a great number of traditional Balinese homes. The streets of Ubud; nearly every house will follow the same traditional walled design.
Men & Women
There are certain tasks clearly to be handled by women, and others reserved for men. Social life in Bali is relatively free and easy. In Balinese leisure activities the roles are also sex differentiated. Both men and women dance but only men play the gamelan. Today you do see some women painters, sculptors, and woodcarvers.
Community Life
Balinese have an amazingly active and organized village life. You simply cannot be a faceless nonentity in Bali. You can't help but get to know your neighbors as your life is so entwined and interrelated with theirs.
Death & Cremation
There are ceremonies for every stage of Balinese life but often the last ceremony-cremation-is the biggest. A Balinese cremation can be an amazing, spectacular, colorful, noisy and exciting event. In fact it often takes so long to organize a cremation that years have passed since the death. During that time the body is temporarily buried. Of course an auspicious day must be chosen for the cremation and since a big cremation can be very expensive business many less wealthy people may take the opportunity of joining in at a larger cremation and sending their own dead on their way at the same time. Brahmans, however, must be cremated immediately. Apart from being yet another occasion for Balinese noise and confusion it's a fine opportunity to observe the incredible energy the Balinese put into creating real works of art which are totally ephemeral. A lot more than a body gets burnt at the cremation. The body is carried from the burial ground (or from the deceased's home if it's an 'immediate' cremation) to the cremation ground in a high, multi-tiered tower made of bamboo, paper, string, tinsel, silk, cloth, mirrors, flowers and anything else bright and colorful you can think of. The tower is carried on the shoulders of a group of men, the size of the group depending on the importance of the deceased and hence the size of the tower. The funeral of a former rajah high priest may require hundreds of men to tote the tower.
A long the way to the cremation ground certain precautions must be taken to ensure that the deceased's spirit does not find its way back home. Loose spirits around the house can be a real nuisance. To ensure this doesn't happen requires getting the spirits confused as to their whereabouts, which you do by shaking the tower, running it around in circles, spinning it around, throwing water at it, generally making the trip to the cremation ground anything but a stately funeral crawl. Meanwhile, there's likely to be a priest halfway up to tower, hanging on grimly as it sways back and forth, and doing his best to soak bystanders with holy water. A gamelan sprints along behind, providing a suitably exciting musical accompaniment. Camera-toting tourists get all but run down and once again the Balinese prove that ceremonies and religion are there to be enjoyed. At the cremation ground the body is transferred to a funeral sarcophagus, this should be in the shape of a bull for a Brahmana, a winged lion for a Satria and a sort of elephant-fish for a Sudra. These days, however, almost anybody from the higher castes will use a bull. Finally up it all goes in flames funeral tower, sarcophagus, body, the lot. The eldest son does his duty by poking through the ashes to ensure that there are no bits of body left unburned. And where does your soul go after your cremation? Why, to a heaven which is just like Bali!
Birth
The first ceremony of Balinese life takes place even before birth. Another ceremony takes place soon after the birth, during which the afterbirth is buried with appropriate offerings. The first major ceremony takes place halfway through the baby's first Balinese year of 210 days.
Names
Basically the Balinese only have four first names. The first child is Wayan or Putu, the second child is Made or Kadek, the third is Nyoman or Komang and the fourth is Ketut. The fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth will be another Wayan, Made, Nyoman, Ketut and Wayan again.
Childhood
The Balinese certainly love children and they have plenty of them to prove it. Coping with a large family is made much easier by the policy of putting younger children in the care of older ones. After the ceremonies of babyhood come ceremonies marking the stages of childhood and puberty, including the important tooth-filing ceremony.
Marriage
Every Balinese expects to marry and raise a family, and marriage takes places at a comparatively young age. Marriages are not, in general, arranged as they are in many other Asian communities although strict rules apply to marriages between the castes. There are two basic forms of marriage in Bali - mapadik and ngorod. The respectable form, in which the family of the man visit the family of the woman and politely propose that the marriage take place, is mapadik. The Balinese, however, like their fun and often prefer marriage by elopement (ngorod) as the most exciting option. Of course, the Balinese are also a practical people so nobody is too surprised when the young man spirits away his bride-to-be, even if she loudly protests about being kidnapped. The couple go into hiding and somehow the girl's parents, no matter how assiduously they search, never manage to find her. Eventually the couple re-emerge, announce that it is too late to stop them now, the marriage is officially recognized and everybody has had a lot of fun and games. Marriage by elopement has another advantage apart from being exciting and mildly heroic it's cheaper.
The Household
There are many modern Balinese houses, but there are still a great number of traditional Balinese homes. The streets of Ubud; nearly every house will follow the same traditional walled design.
Men & Women
There are certain tasks clearly to be handled by women, and others reserved for men. Social life in Bali is relatively free and easy. In Balinese leisure activities the roles are also sex differentiated. Both men and women dance but only men play the gamelan. Today you do see some women painters, sculptors, and woodcarvers.
Community Life
Balinese have an amazingly active and organized village life. You simply cannot be a faceless nonentity in Bali. You can't help but get to know your neighbors as your life is so entwined and interrelated with theirs.
Death & Cremation
There are ceremonies for every stage of Balinese life but often the last ceremony-cremation-is the biggest. A Balinese cremation can be an amazing, spectacular, colorful, noisy and exciting event. In fact it often takes so long to organize a cremation that years have passed since the death. During that time the body is temporarily buried. Of course an auspicious day must be chosen for the cremation and since a big cremation can be very expensive business many less wealthy people may take the opportunity of joining in at a larger cremation and sending their own dead on their way at the same time. Brahmans, however, must be cremated immediately. Apart from being yet another occasion for Balinese noise and confusion it's a fine opportunity to observe the incredible energy the Balinese put into creating real works of art which are totally ephemeral. A lot more than a body gets burnt at the cremation. The body is carried from the burial ground (or from the deceased's home if it's an 'immediate' cremation) to the cremation ground in a high, multi-tiered tower made of bamboo, paper, string, tinsel, silk, cloth, mirrors, flowers and anything else bright and colorful you can think of. The tower is carried on the shoulders of a group of men, the size of the group depending on the importance of the deceased and hence the size of the tower. The funeral of a former rajah high priest may require hundreds of men to tote the tower.
A long the way to the cremation ground certain precautions must be taken to ensure that the deceased's spirit does not find its way back home. Loose spirits around the house can be a real nuisance. To ensure this doesn't happen requires getting the spirits confused as to their whereabouts, which you do by shaking the tower, running it around in circles, spinning it around, throwing water at it, generally making the trip to the cremation ground anything but a stately funeral crawl. Meanwhile, there's likely to be a priest halfway up to tower, hanging on grimly as it sways back and forth, and doing his best to soak bystanders with holy water. A gamelan sprints along behind, providing a suitably exciting musical accompaniment. Camera-toting tourists get all but run down and once again the Balinese prove that ceremonies and religion are there to be enjoyed. At the cremation ground the body is transferred to a funeral sarcophagus, this should be in the shape of a bull for a Brahmana, a winged lion for a Satria and a sort of elephant-fish for a Sudra. These days, however, almost anybody from the higher castes will use a bull. Finally up it all goes in flames funeral tower, sarcophagus, body, the lot. The eldest son does his duty by poking through the ashes to ensure that there are no bits of body left unburned. And where does your soul go after your cremation? Why, to a heaven which is just like Bali!
Nusa Dua Beach Guide
Nusa Dua Beach
Everything you need to know about Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach
Bali's most prestigious resort area, Nusa Dua is where you'll find international world - class luxury hotels elegantly lining beautiful white sands.
Quiet and exclusive with superb facilities... you really don't have to venture far from your luxurious hotel room... but if you do, the rest of Bali's attractions are within easy access. Located on the Bukit peninsula, in the southern part of Bali, approximately 10 km from the international airport.
Where to Stay in Nusa Dua
Spectacular luxury resorts are the norm in Nusa Dua, with many incorporating contemporary Balinese style buildings and beautifully landscaped gardens, ponds and pool areas. Deluxe ocean view suites and stunning architecture like the Javanese Imperial Palace style at the Aston Bali are quite breathtaking.
Deluxe beachfront hotels include Bali Hilton International, The Grand Hyatt, Nikko Bali, Sheraton Laguna, Westin, Putri Bali, Melia Bali Sol and the Nusa Dua Beach. As well as spas (the elegant Grand Mirage Resort & Spa has a thalassotherapy spa specialising in saltwater treatments) many have convention facilities; swimming pools; excellent sports facilities and a selection of restaurants, night clubs or discotheques. There are also smaller cottage style hotels.
Everything you need to know about Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach
Bali's most prestigious resort area, Nusa Dua is where you'll find international world - class luxury hotels elegantly lining beautiful white sands.
Quiet and exclusive with superb facilities... you really don't have to venture far from your luxurious hotel room... but if you do, the rest of Bali's attractions are within easy access. Located on the Bukit peninsula, in the southern part of Bali, approximately 10 km from the international airport.
Where to Stay in Nusa Dua
Spectacular luxury resorts are the norm in Nusa Dua, with many incorporating contemporary Balinese style buildings and beautifully landscaped gardens, ponds and pool areas. Deluxe ocean view suites and stunning architecture like the Javanese Imperial Palace style at the Aston Bali are quite breathtaking.
Deluxe beachfront hotels include Bali Hilton International, The Grand Hyatt, Nikko Bali, Sheraton Laguna, Westin, Putri Bali, Melia Bali Sol and the Nusa Dua Beach. As well as spas (the elegant Grand Mirage Resort & Spa has a thalassotherapy spa specialising in saltwater treatments) many have convention facilities; swimming pools; excellent sports facilities and a selection of restaurants, night clubs or discotheques. There are also smaller cottage style hotels.
Sunday 13 July 2008
New Horoscope
Date 14 july 2008
Aries
The Bottom Line
A foreign person will have a positive influence in your life today -- if you listen.
In Detail
A foreign person will have a very positive influence in your life today, especially if they are a person from your past. What they have to say is going to surprise you, but you should give them the benefit of any doubt. They are reaching out to you, and it is a very good idea for you to reach right back. Exploring a different culture will be fun when they are your guide, and they are eager to show you things that are familiar to them -- take them up on any invitations they extend to you.
Taurus
The Bottom Line
If you want to get a real adrenaline rush, you have to be prepared to take a risk.
In Detail
Today will bring you a wonderful chance to stir up your normal routine. So if you want to get a real adrenaline rush, you are in luck! The only catch is that in order to feel this rush, you have to be prepared to take a risk -- not a big one, but one you might not be comfortable with. Put yourself into an uncertain situation where you could be rejected or come out with less than you put in. Trust yourself and just see what happens. No matter what the outcome is, you will be better off.
Gemini
The Bottom Line
Put the last clue in place today, and things will really start moving! Keep it up!
In Detail
Are you feeling overwhelmed by someone or something new in your life? Whether you're overwhelmed in a good way or a bad way, today brings you the chance to get the control you so desperately need. Once you put one last clue into place, things will start to click. You will be able to steer the situation right where you want it to go. Overall, your life is becoming a lot less erratic, and you're experiencing a lot more calm and quiet. Make the most of your free time by relaxing by yourself tonight.
Cancer
The Bottom Line
Coworkers are also teammates. If you need some extra backup, then let them know.
In Detail
At work, you have to remind yourself that not everything is resting completely on your shoulders -- stop putting so much pressure on yourself, because no one else is. Coworkers are there for a reason. They're not only there to do their job, but to fulfill their roles in the team. So if you need them to step it up a bit, then you should feel free to ask them to. Just do it face-to-face. An email won't convey the right tone, and could ruffle their feathers.
Leo
The Bottom Line
Want more romance in your life? Of course you do. Today brings a good opportunity.
In Detail
If you have been trying to start a new romance or are just looking to amp up the romance level in your current relationship, today will give you a wonderful opportunity to do just that! You can create the perfect environment for some sizzling moments, and show a certain someone how much you value them in your life. After all, isn't romance all about making someone realize how special they are? Flirting and flattering is one thing -- being open and vulnerable about how you feel is another.
Virgo
The Bottom Line
You've been waiting for the right time to take that risk. That time may come today!
In Detail
You have been waiting for the right time to go out on a limb and take that risk, and that time could come today! When you see that the right people are finally opening up their minds and coming around to your way of thinking, today, you should take that as your green light to move full-steam ahead. It's going to feel a bit scary at first, but it is also going to feel very invigorating! Don't be surprised if a friend asks to come along on the adventure. The more the merrier!
Libra
The Bottom Line
Be more expressive about your emotions than you typically are, today. Be vulnerable.
In Detail
Ugly emotions are burbling up inside you today, and it doesn't matter why -- you're feeling out of sorts, and you need to deal with these feelings by sharing them. Be more expressive about your emotions than you typically are. For example, if you are upset with someone, don't suppress it. Don't underestimate other people by assuming they will react negatively. They have a lot more empathy than you think, and they are ready to listen. Be vulnerable and tell them how you feel.
Scorpio
The Bottom Line
Don't rein in your instincts. If something doesn't seem right, then it isn't right.
In Detail
Don't rein in your instincts, today. If something doesn't seem right, then it isn't right. Even if you are in the middle of a business deal, you should listen to your gut if it tells you to walk away at the last minute. Your mind is tuned into the energies of other people very tightly today, and you will be able to sense when someone is lying through their teeth -- as they smile right at you and tell you that they're trying to help. This hyper-suspicious phase is going to be very brief.
Sagittarius
The Bottom Line
Meeting people sometimes feels like a chore, but today it feels like an adventure.
In Detail
Meeting new people can sometimes feel like a chore, but today it will feel like an adventure when a distractingly fascinating person moves into your orbit. Before you engage in conversation, observe them for a while. Listen to what they say, how they say it, and how people react to it. This is a person who likes to be taken seriously, so you shouldn't send out any messages that you don't really stand behind. Go slowly with this one, and don't get caught up in the excitement.
Capicorn
The Bottom Line
You'll be moved more by facts and figures. You want to get stuff done, and you will.
In Detail
Today you'll be moved more by facts and figures than by tears or treacle. You're hungry for analytical thinking right now, and your mind wants to see things in black and white terms. You're willing to see the other side of an argument, but you're not going to give people credit for sob stories. Therefore, you will get along best with people who aren't interested in making small talk or being charming all day long. You are in the mood to get things done -- and you will.
Aquarius
The Bottom Line
Keep in mind that your friends have their own lives. It's time to give more space.
In Detail
Keep in mind that your friends have their own lives -- and be careful not to start getting too needy, right now. Yes, they have always been there to listen to your problems and encourage you, but try to handle some of your stuff on your own for a while. Not only is it good to learn to be more independent, but they will appreciate a little break. Blurring the line between friendship and therapy is never a wise idea. Avoid it at all costs to keep your friendships healthy.
Pisces
The Bottom Line
Thanks to a recent accomplishment, you should be feeling much more confident today.
In Detail
Thanks to a recent accomplishment, you should be feeling much more confident! Today you'll get a great opportunity to gain more authority over your life and put some new ideas into play. Your independence is something you should savor -- go out for a solo date and treat yourself like royalty (or as much like royalty as you can comfortably afford). Luck will be on your side in terms of any upcoming travel plans. There won't be any delays, and you might even get a nice little upgrade!
Aries
The Bottom Line
A foreign person will have a positive influence in your life today -- if you listen.
In Detail
A foreign person will have a very positive influence in your life today, especially if they are a person from your past. What they have to say is going to surprise you, but you should give them the benefit of any doubt. They are reaching out to you, and it is a very good idea for you to reach right back. Exploring a different culture will be fun when they are your guide, and they are eager to show you things that are familiar to them -- take them up on any invitations they extend to you.
Taurus
The Bottom Line
If you want to get a real adrenaline rush, you have to be prepared to take a risk.
In Detail
Today will bring you a wonderful chance to stir up your normal routine. So if you want to get a real adrenaline rush, you are in luck! The only catch is that in order to feel this rush, you have to be prepared to take a risk -- not a big one, but one you might not be comfortable with. Put yourself into an uncertain situation where you could be rejected or come out with less than you put in. Trust yourself and just see what happens. No matter what the outcome is, you will be better off.
Gemini
The Bottom Line
Put the last clue in place today, and things will really start moving! Keep it up!
In Detail
Are you feeling overwhelmed by someone or something new in your life? Whether you're overwhelmed in a good way or a bad way, today brings you the chance to get the control you so desperately need. Once you put one last clue into place, things will start to click. You will be able to steer the situation right where you want it to go. Overall, your life is becoming a lot less erratic, and you're experiencing a lot more calm and quiet. Make the most of your free time by relaxing by yourself tonight.
Cancer
The Bottom Line
Coworkers are also teammates. If you need some extra backup, then let them know.
In Detail
At work, you have to remind yourself that not everything is resting completely on your shoulders -- stop putting so much pressure on yourself, because no one else is. Coworkers are there for a reason. They're not only there to do their job, but to fulfill their roles in the team. So if you need them to step it up a bit, then you should feel free to ask them to. Just do it face-to-face. An email won't convey the right tone, and could ruffle their feathers.
Leo
The Bottom Line
Want more romance in your life? Of course you do. Today brings a good opportunity.
In Detail
If you have been trying to start a new romance or are just looking to amp up the romance level in your current relationship, today will give you a wonderful opportunity to do just that! You can create the perfect environment for some sizzling moments, and show a certain someone how much you value them in your life. After all, isn't romance all about making someone realize how special they are? Flirting and flattering is one thing -- being open and vulnerable about how you feel is another.
Virgo
The Bottom Line
You've been waiting for the right time to take that risk. That time may come today!
In Detail
You have been waiting for the right time to go out on a limb and take that risk, and that time could come today! When you see that the right people are finally opening up their minds and coming around to your way of thinking, today, you should take that as your green light to move full-steam ahead. It's going to feel a bit scary at first, but it is also going to feel very invigorating! Don't be surprised if a friend asks to come along on the adventure. The more the merrier!
Libra
The Bottom Line
Be more expressive about your emotions than you typically are, today. Be vulnerable.
In Detail
Ugly emotions are burbling up inside you today, and it doesn't matter why -- you're feeling out of sorts, and you need to deal with these feelings by sharing them. Be more expressive about your emotions than you typically are. For example, if you are upset with someone, don't suppress it. Don't underestimate other people by assuming they will react negatively. They have a lot more empathy than you think, and they are ready to listen. Be vulnerable and tell them how you feel.
Scorpio
The Bottom Line
Don't rein in your instincts. If something doesn't seem right, then it isn't right.
In Detail
Don't rein in your instincts, today. If something doesn't seem right, then it isn't right. Even if you are in the middle of a business deal, you should listen to your gut if it tells you to walk away at the last minute. Your mind is tuned into the energies of other people very tightly today, and you will be able to sense when someone is lying through their teeth -- as they smile right at you and tell you that they're trying to help. This hyper-suspicious phase is going to be very brief.
Sagittarius
The Bottom Line
Meeting people sometimes feels like a chore, but today it feels like an adventure.
In Detail
Meeting new people can sometimes feel like a chore, but today it will feel like an adventure when a distractingly fascinating person moves into your orbit. Before you engage in conversation, observe them for a while. Listen to what they say, how they say it, and how people react to it. This is a person who likes to be taken seriously, so you shouldn't send out any messages that you don't really stand behind. Go slowly with this one, and don't get caught up in the excitement.
Capicorn
The Bottom Line
You'll be moved more by facts and figures. You want to get stuff done, and you will.
In Detail
Today you'll be moved more by facts and figures than by tears or treacle. You're hungry for analytical thinking right now, and your mind wants to see things in black and white terms. You're willing to see the other side of an argument, but you're not going to give people credit for sob stories. Therefore, you will get along best with people who aren't interested in making small talk or being charming all day long. You are in the mood to get things done -- and you will.
Aquarius
The Bottom Line
Keep in mind that your friends have their own lives. It's time to give more space.
In Detail
Keep in mind that your friends have their own lives -- and be careful not to start getting too needy, right now. Yes, they have always been there to listen to your problems and encourage you, but try to handle some of your stuff on your own for a while. Not only is it good to learn to be more independent, but they will appreciate a little break. Blurring the line between friendship and therapy is never a wise idea. Avoid it at all costs to keep your friendships healthy.
Pisces
The Bottom Line
Thanks to a recent accomplishment, you should be feeling much more confident today.
In Detail
Thanks to a recent accomplishment, you should be feeling much more confident! Today you'll get a great opportunity to gain more authority over your life and put some new ideas into play. Your independence is something you should savor -- go out for a solo date and treat yourself like royalty (or as much like royalty as you can comfortably afford). Luck will be on your side in terms of any upcoming travel plans. There won't be any delays, and you might even get a nice little upgrade!
Friday 11 July 2008
Gitgit Waterfall at Bali Dreamland
Gitgit Waterfall
Gitgit Waterfall, Places of Interest in North BaliGitgit Waterfall is a beautiful tourist destination in north part of Bali. Gitgit waterfall is located in the plateau area with the height about 35 meters and it is surrounded by tropical tree and emits the constantly natural water debit during the year. Waterfall voice around the charming nature was amazing and it was the separate attraction which can be enjoyed by each visitor who comes to visit. There are some plantations protecting the rain forest around the waterfall and in this place we often met the wild monkey to get the water from this waterfall.
Tourist Destination in North Part of Bali
Places of interest in Bali, Gitgit WaterfallGitgit Waterfall is one of the famous tourist destinations in Bali which is located in Gitgit countryside, Sukasada sub district and about 10 Km from Singaraja Town or about 70 Km from Denpasar. It is set at height land about 300 meters above sea level. Beside of Gitgit, there is another important spot point like the monument for hero struggle of Singaraja resident who dead on the battle against the Dutch colonialist. This monument is called Bhuwana Pangkung Bangka. This Monument is extant monument and idol of people struggle action against the Dutch colonization. This monument is located in Gitgit countryside and Sukasada sub district and about 17 Km from Singaraja Town . It is situated on the hill bank. The facilities are available at Gitgit Waterfall is consisted of the parking area, restaurant and art shop. It is not far from the waterfall place, there is a place for taking a rest while enjoy the beauty panorama of rice terrace and Buleleng Beach. In order to visit the Gitgit waterfall, all visitors will follow the walkway down until the spot point. This road is one of the omissions in Dutch era where the local resident uses it to access other regions. On 1975, this waterfall is opened as tourist destinations in north part of Bali .
Bali Best Adventure Activities
Welcome to the great adventures tour in Bali Island which provides many selections of adventure activities during your holiday in the paradise island. The adventures are very attractive and full of challenging and fun. Explore the ford of Bali natures walk encircled by the beauty of natural nature with mutifarious of flora and fauna, see the friendliness of Balinese resident in the rural area and explore every corner of Bali land. This tour has provided the interesting adventure such as White Water Rafting, Kayaking, Elephant Safari Ride, Jungle and Village Trekking, Mountain and Village Cycling, Paragliding, Horse Riding, Land Cruise, VW Safari and Sea Walker with competitive rate. Join and participate from one of the perfect choice adventure gives you the memory which is not fallen into oblivion and later tell to others.
BALI WHITE WATER RAFTING
Bali White Water RaftingIt is provides choice of water rafting adventures in the spectacular river with rapids class two and three. More
BALI ELEPHANT SAFARI
Bali Elephant SafariThe spectacular attraction from Sumatra Elephant and ride on it at the World's Best Elephant Park is the exciting experience for your vacation in Bali. More
BALI MOUNTAIN CYCLING
Bali Cycling, Bali Montain BikeThe adventure downhill in the trail area of Kintamani and enter the Balinese rural which are offered in three different places of cycling in Bali. More
BALI LAND CRUISE
Bali Land CruisesTravel by legendary luxury Land Rover, on tiny country road and tracks, through rice terrace and untouched rainforest to the real heart of Bali. More
BALI JUNGLE TREKKING
Bali Jungle TrekkingTrek into the tropical mountain forest, villages and beautiful rice field which are served in several places in Bali. More
BALI SEA CRUISES
Bali CruisesThe experience fords the Bali Sea with luxury cruise ship with the exciting activities to explore the island of Lembongan. More
BALI HORSE RIDING
Bali Horse RidingThe exciting experience to ride a horse in Bali while enjoy a peaceful ride along the beach to get a unique experience in the paradise island. More
BALI WATER SPORT
Bali Water SportServe a lot of games above the calm sea at Tanjung Benoa Bali with full of fun; like jet ski, parasailing, snorkeling, diving, turtle island tour and more.
BALI GOLF
Bali GolfPlaying golf in Bali at the luxurious golf course by stepping your way to explore the best green fees in Asia. More
BALI PARAGLIDING
Bali ParaglidingBali Adventure Paragliding let you do to fly above Bali's most spectacular strip of coastal. More
BALI FISHING
Bali FishingSport fishing is an adventure to explore the ocean with full of fun to catch the fish. With professional boat driver and complete fishing gear, your adventure will be the exciting experience.
BALI DIVING
Bali Fun DivingDiving Tour is an exciting experience under the blue seawater to view the beautiful coral and colorful fish. Nusa Dua, Padang Bai, Tulamben, Menjangan and other are the favorite place for diving point.
BALI WHITE WATER RAFTING
Bali White Water RaftingIt is provides choice of water rafting adventures in the spectacular river with rapids class two and three. More
BALI ELEPHANT SAFARI
Bali Elephant SafariThe spectacular attraction from Sumatra Elephant and ride on it at the World's Best Elephant Park is the exciting experience for your vacation in Bali. More
BALI MOUNTAIN CYCLING
Bali Cycling, Bali Montain BikeThe adventure downhill in the trail area of Kintamani and enter the Balinese rural which are offered in three different places of cycling in Bali. More
BALI LAND CRUISE
Bali Land CruisesTravel by legendary luxury Land Rover, on tiny country road and tracks, through rice terrace and untouched rainforest to the real heart of Bali. More
BALI JUNGLE TREKKING
Bali Jungle TrekkingTrek into the tropical mountain forest, villages and beautiful rice field which are served in several places in Bali. More
BALI SEA CRUISES
Bali CruisesThe experience fords the Bali Sea with luxury cruise ship with the exciting activities to explore the island of Lembongan. More
BALI HORSE RIDING
Bali Horse RidingThe exciting experience to ride a horse in Bali while enjoy a peaceful ride along the beach to get a unique experience in the paradise island. More
BALI WATER SPORT
Bali Water SportServe a lot of games above the calm sea at Tanjung Benoa Bali with full of fun; like jet ski, parasailing, snorkeling, diving, turtle island tour and more.
BALI GOLF
Bali GolfPlaying golf in Bali at the luxurious golf course by stepping your way to explore the best green fees in Asia. More
BALI PARAGLIDING
Bali ParaglidingBali Adventure Paragliding let you do to fly above Bali's most spectacular strip of coastal. More
BALI FISHING
Bali FishingSport fishing is an adventure to explore the ocean with full of fun to catch the fish. With professional boat driver and complete fishing gear, your adventure will be the exciting experience.
BALI DIVING
Bali Fun DivingDiving Tour is an exciting experience under the blue seawater to view the beautiful coral and colorful fish. Nusa Dua, Padang Bai, Tulamben, Menjangan and other are the favorite place for diving point.
Wednesday 2 July 2008
Bali Dreamland Culture
A Balinese Folktale: Another Version of Calonarang
Once upon a time, there was a region named Daha. When Daha was ruled by King Sri Aji Airlangga the region was remained safe and the people were prosperous. On his power, none of thieves had enough bravery to practice their occupation in Daha. And people lived peacefuly. Unlike Girah, one of villages in Daha, was remained unorganized. This was because a widow named Rangdeng Girah, Rangda (the word “rangda” means “widow” in Bali this word is associated with witch and evil) from Girah village, lived there. She had a daughter; named Diah Ratna Manggali who rumored of having a beauty of an angel.
Rangdeng Girah
Rangdeng Girah wished her lovely daughter to get marriage soon. But no one have enough guts to marry Diah because Rangdeng Girah was known as a witch who had a great power to harm everyone. Therefore Rangdeng was very angry. One night, she went to graveyard named Gandamayu, followed by her adherents, Ni Larung, Ni Guyang, Ni Lenda, Ni Lendi, Ni Weksirsa, and Ni Mahisawedana. In the midnight, she tranced and asked her adherents to dance. On that moment she put a curse to every one in Girah Village .
Once upon a time, there was a region named Daha. When Daha was ruled by King Sri Aji Airlangga the region was remained safe and the people were prosperous. On his power, none of thieves had enough bravery to practice their occupation in Daha. And people lived peacefuly. Unlike Girah, one of villages in Daha, was remained unorganized. This was because a widow named Rangdeng Girah, Rangda (the word “rangda” means “widow” in Bali this word is associated with witch and evil) from Girah village, lived there. She had a daughter; named Diah Ratna Manggali who rumored of having a beauty of an angel.
Rangdeng Girah
Rangdeng Girah wished her lovely daughter to get marriage soon. But no one have enough guts to marry Diah because Rangdeng Girah was known as a witch who had a great power to harm everyone. Therefore Rangdeng was very angry. One night, she went to graveyard named Gandamayu, followed by her adherents, Ni Larung, Ni Guyang, Ni Lenda, Ni Lendi, Ni Weksirsa, and Ni Mahisawedana. In the midnight, she tranced and asked her adherents to dance. On that moment she put a curse to every one in Girah Village .
Tuesday 1 July 2008
The Dreamland World Temple
For the first time in human history, there will soon be no ice at the North Pole. In the June 27th edition of the Independent, Steve Connor quotes researcher Mark Serreze as saying, "From the viewpoint of science, the North Pole is just another point on the globe, but symbolically it is hugely important. There is supposed to be ice at the North Pole, not open water."
Full Story
Addicted!
02-Jul-2008
...to cell phones? -
On the phone not on drugs
Is your child constantly on the cell phone? In Spain, this is considered a mental illness—two teens there, ages 12 and 13, have been committed to a mental health institution for 3 months for this reason. BBC News quotes psychologist Jose Martinez-Raga, who is an expert in addictions, as warning that these cases are the "tip of the iceberg," and that cell phone addiction "could definitely be a danger in the future."
Full Story
Did you Miss Anne & Whitley at the Dreamland Festival?
29-Jun-2008
Another chance to see them in Virginia Beach! - Whitley Strieber will be speaking about 2012 at the A.R.E. Conference in Virginia Beach, which will be held July 18-20. It's another chance to hear him if you missed the geat times at our recent Dreamland Festival. Click here to find out more!
Full Story
It was a Festival, All Right
01-Jul-2008
UPDATE! - In Anne Strieber's new diary, she talks about her impressions of the recent Dreamland Festival, including an incredible synchronicity that she added to her speech at the last minute. Even if you've read the diary, you should REREAD it for an extraordinary update from one of the Festival attendees.
Full Story
Full Story
Addicted!
02-Jul-2008
...to cell phones? -
On the phone not on drugs
Is your child constantly on the cell phone? In Spain, this is considered a mental illness—two teens there, ages 12 and 13, have been committed to a mental health institution for 3 months for this reason. BBC News quotes psychologist Jose Martinez-Raga, who is an expert in addictions, as warning that these cases are the "tip of the iceberg," and that cell phone addiction "could definitely be a danger in the future."
Full Story
Did you Miss Anne & Whitley at the Dreamland Festival?
29-Jun-2008
Another chance to see them in Virginia Beach! - Whitley Strieber will be speaking about 2012 at the A.R.E. Conference in Virginia Beach, which will be held July 18-20. It's another chance to hear him if you missed the geat times at our recent Dreamland Festival. Click here to find out more!
Full Story
It was a Festival, All Right
01-Jul-2008
UPDATE! - In Anne Strieber's new diary, she talks about her impressions of the recent Dreamland Festival, including an incredible synchronicity that she added to her speech at the last minute. Even if you've read the diary, you should REREAD it for an extraordinary update from one of the Festival attendees.
Full Story
Monday 23 June 2008
Bali Lakes and Bali Mountains
Bali Lakes and Bali Mountains
Batur Bali
In 1926, during the violent eruption of Mt. Batur Bali, the original village of BaturBali, at the southern foot of the mountain, ...
Kintamani Bali
1500 meters high, the village of Kintamani Bali ahs a cool, damp climate suited to growing oranges and passion fruit and on m...
Bedugul Bali
In the center highlands of Bali in the serene mountain area of Bedugul. Here, vegetables, fruits, and flowers thrive ...
Mt. Batukaru Bali
This 2,278 meter peak towers over the local landscape, and strongly influences local spiritual beliefs. All local temple...
Batur Bali
In 1926, during the violent eruption of Mt. Batur Bali, the original village of BaturBali, at the southern foot of the mountain, ...
Kintamani Bali
1500 meters high, the village of Kintamani Bali ahs a cool, damp climate suited to growing oranges and passion fruit and on m...
Bedugul Bali
In the center highlands of Bali in the serene mountain area of Bedugul. Here, vegetables, fruits, and flowers thrive ...
Mt. Batukaru Bali
This 2,278 meter peak towers over the local landscape, and strongly influences local spiritual beliefs. All local temple...
Thursday 19 June 2008
Bali Dance & Shadow Puppet Guide
Barong, Legong, Kecak, Fire Dance
Art is everywhere in Bali. From the intricate flower decorations in a Barong dancer's headdress, to elaborately carved temple facades and beautiful oil paintings. Bali's performing arts are also an integral part of Balinese culture.
Music and dance play a huge part in significant rituals and religious ceremonies. Known as " the Island of the Gods" hardly a day goes by without a ceremony or festival taking place. Traditional dances with full gamelan orchestras are performed for tourists daily in addition to the day to day religious ceremonies. Definitely worth seeing.
Barong Dance
The Barong is triumphant display of graceful movement and vibrant colour. The dance is basically a contest between the opposing forces of Rangda - chaos and destruction, and Barong - order. (Basically good and evil.)
Performances
Suwung and Kesiman, in the suburbs of Denpasar.
Batubulan: Daily from 9:00 or 9:30 a.m.
Banjar Abasan, Singapadu: Daily from 9:30 a.m.
Puri Saren in Ubud: Fridays from 6:30 p.m.
Legong Dance
The Legong is a very difficult dance requiring great dexterity and is generally performed by young girls. The dance is choreographed to the finest detail, to a set pattern with no improvisation allowed.
Performances
Peliatan Stage, Friday from 6:30 p.m.
Pura Dalem & Puri Peliatan, Saturday from 6:30 p.m.
Pura Peliatan in Ubud, Sunday from 7:30 p.m.
Puri Saren, Ubud, Monday from 7:30 p.m.
Banjar Tegal, Kuta, Saturday and Tuesday from 8:00 p.m.
Kecak Dance
The kecak is a ritual dance which was created in the early 1930's for the movie "Island of the Demons" by the German painter and intellectual Walter Spies. The dance combines the chorus of the "Sanghyang" trance dance with a dance story from the epic "Ramayana."
It is extremely impressive with its circular chorus of sometimes over 100 bare-chested male singers.
Performances
Arts Center, Denpasar, daily from 6:30 p.m.
Banjar Buni, Kuta, Sunday from 8 p.m.
Banjar Tegal, Ubud, Sunday from 6:00 p.m.
Fire Dance
This dance is an exorcism dance form against spirit possession, where barefooted girls in trance dance among glowing coals.
Performances
Bona Kangin, Gianyar, Friday. Monday and Wednesday from 6:30
Bonasari, Gianyar, Friday, Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 p.m.
Batubulan, daily from 6:30 p.m.
Ramayana Dance
This highly entertaining dance form plays out the epic legends of the Ramayana. There are occasional performances in Banjar Buni, Kuta.
Shadow Puppets - Wayang Kulits
Wayang Kulit, is an Indonesian shadow puppet play, which uses intricately made and beautifully painted, gilded leather puppets. Although only the puppets' shadows are seen by the audience, the performances are fascinating. The stories told by shadows are often from the spirit world and are full of symbolism and mysticism.
A single, highly skilled puppeteer controls hundreds of puppets; plays out the roles of different characters with a different voice for each character; and leads the traditional musicians.
Wayang kulit plays can play for several hours or be several days long.
Performances
Popular performances are at Banjar Buni, Kuta, every Monday and Thursday 8:00 p.m.
Oka Kartini, Tebesaya, Peliatan, Ubud, on Saturdays from 8:00 p.m.
Art is everywhere in Bali. From the intricate flower decorations in a Barong dancer's headdress, to elaborately carved temple facades and beautiful oil paintings. Bali's performing arts are also an integral part of Balinese culture.
Music and dance play a huge part in significant rituals and religious ceremonies. Known as " the Island of the Gods" hardly a day goes by without a ceremony or festival taking place. Traditional dances with full gamelan orchestras are performed for tourists daily in addition to the day to day religious ceremonies. Definitely worth seeing.
Barong Dance
The Barong is triumphant display of graceful movement and vibrant colour. The dance is basically a contest between the opposing forces of Rangda - chaos and destruction, and Barong - order. (Basically good and evil.)
Performances
Suwung and Kesiman, in the suburbs of Denpasar.
Batubulan: Daily from 9:00 or 9:30 a.m.
Banjar Abasan, Singapadu: Daily from 9:30 a.m.
Puri Saren in Ubud: Fridays from 6:30 p.m.
Legong Dance
The Legong is a very difficult dance requiring great dexterity and is generally performed by young girls. The dance is choreographed to the finest detail, to a set pattern with no improvisation allowed.
Performances
Peliatan Stage, Friday from 6:30 p.m.
Pura Dalem & Puri Peliatan, Saturday from 6:30 p.m.
Pura Peliatan in Ubud, Sunday from 7:30 p.m.
Puri Saren, Ubud, Monday from 7:30 p.m.
Banjar Tegal, Kuta, Saturday and Tuesday from 8:00 p.m.
Kecak Dance
The kecak is a ritual dance which was created in the early 1930's for the movie "Island of the Demons" by the German painter and intellectual Walter Spies. The dance combines the chorus of the "Sanghyang" trance dance with a dance story from the epic "Ramayana."
It is extremely impressive with its circular chorus of sometimes over 100 bare-chested male singers.
Performances
Arts Center, Denpasar, daily from 6:30 p.m.
Banjar Buni, Kuta, Sunday from 8 p.m.
Banjar Tegal, Ubud, Sunday from 6:00 p.m.
Fire Dance
This dance is an exorcism dance form against spirit possession, where barefooted girls in trance dance among glowing coals.
Performances
Bona Kangin, Gianyar, Friday. Monday and Wednesday from 6:30
Bonasari, Gianyar, Friday, Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 p.m.
Batubulan, daily from 6:30 p.m.
Ramayana Dance
This highly entertaining dance form plays out the epic legends of the Ramayana. There are occasional performances in Banjar Buni, Kuta.
Shadow Puppets - Wayang Kulits
Wayang Kulit, is an Indonesian shadow puppet play, which uses intricately made and beautifully painted, gilded leather puppets. Although only the puppets' shadows are seen by the audience, the performances are fascinating. The stories told by shadows are often from the spirit world and are full of symbolism and mysticism.
A single, highly skilled puppeteer controls hundreds of puppets; plays out the roles of different characters with a different voice for each character; and leads the traditional musicians.
Wayang kulit plays can play for several hours or be several days long.
Performances
Popular performances are at Banjar Buni, Kuta, every Monday and Thursday 8:00 p.m.
Oka Kartini, Tebesaya, Peliatan, Ubud, on Saturdays from 8:00 p.m.
Monday 16 June 2008
Bali Nature
Geographically, the Province of Bali is located 80-30'-40" to 80-50'-48" south of the Equator and 1140-25'-53" to 1150-42'-40" east longitude.
The relief and topography of Bali have their main features of a mountain range that transverse the island from West to East. Among those mountains are two of significant sizes: the volcanoes of Gunung Agung ( 3.140 m ) and Gunung Batur (1.717 m).
As well as these features, Bali also has four lakes: Lake Beratan (375,6 Ha), Lake Buyan (336 Ha), Lake Tamblingan (11 Ha) and Lake Batur (1.607,5). Rivers, which have their sources on these lakes as well as forests, flow to the southern side of the island. Such rivers are; Unda, Petanu, Ayung, Pulukan, Loloan and many others.
Because of its location, Bali has a tropical climate, which is influenced by seasonal wind pattern and alternate every six months. There are two seasons: the dry season from April to October and the rainy season from October to April. With such climate, Bali is in inhibited by variety of tropical flora and fauna.
The relief and topography of Bali have their main features of a mountain range that transverse the island from West to East. Among those mountains are two of significant sizes: the volcanoes of Gunung Agung ( 3.140 m ) and Gunung Batur (1.717 m).
As well as these features, Bali also has four lakes: Lake Beratan (375,6 Ha), Lake Buyan (336 Ha), Lake Tamblingan (11 Ha) and Lake Batur (1.607,5). Rivers, which have their sources on these lakes as well as forests, flow to the southern side of the island. Such rivers are; Unda, Petanu, Ayung, Pulukan, Loloan and many others.
Because of its location, Bali has a tropical climate, which is influenced by seasonal wind pattern and alternate every six months. There are two seasons: the dry season from April to October and the rainy season from October to April. With such climate, Bali is in inhibited by variety of tropical flora and fauna.
Friday 13 June 2008
Hundreds of monkeys come down from mountain
Hundreds of monkeys come down from mountain
Karangasem today reported hundreds of monkeys have been seen along the Sang Hyang Ambu road in Bubug, Karangasem. Many tourists and local stopped their vehicle a moment just to see them and throw some bread, corns or peanuts to the group of the monkeys- it becomes a new attraction along these road beside a lovely natural panoramic. These monkeys have come down from Gumang Mountain to Bubug Village and believe as a sacred monkey (druwe).
Villagers assumed this phenomenon because of longer-dry season this year. They believed hunger has pushed these monkeys came down to the village to get food. More then 200 monkeys has been seen walking in group, come down from the mountain every morning and climb up again in the afternoon since few days ago.
" These are the biggest migrant of those monkeys as far as I knew, last year we just saw no more then six monkeys came down in the dry season, but now they come hundreds in number," I Wayan Mas Suyasa, Bugbug Villager, says.
"Even they come in huge group, until today there's no report that they destroy villagers' fields. Those sacred monkeys come down because of they are hungry, they will stay here from morning until noon and in the afternoon they will be back to the mountain."
Mas also mention that community board in Bubug has socialized to community not to disturb those sacred monkeys in order to protect them from disappear -because Bubug Village had lose wild buffalo in their area in 1960s.
Karangasem today reported hundreds of monkeys have been seen along the Sang Hyang Ambu road in Bubug, Karangasem. Many tourists and local stopped their vehicle a moment just to see them and throw some bread, corns or peanuts to the group of the monkeys- it becomes a new attraction along these road beside a lovely natural panoramic. These monkeys have come down from Gumang Mountain to Bubug Village and believe as a sacred monkey (druwe).
Villagers assumed this phenomenon because of longer-dry season this year. They believed hunger has pushed these monkeys came down to the village to get food. More then 200 monkeys has been seen walking in group, come down from the mountain every morning and climb up again in the afternoon since few days ago.
" These are the biggest migrant of those monkeys as far as I knew, last year we just saw no more then six monkeys came down in the dry season, but now they come hundreds in number," I Wayan Mas Suyasa, Bugbug Villager, says.
"Even they come in huge group, until today there's no report that they destroy villagers' fields. Those sacred monkeys come down because of they are hungry, they will stay here from morning until noon and in the afternoon they will be back to the mountain."
Mas also mention that community board in Bubug has socialized to community not to disturb those sacred monkeys in order to protect them from disappear -because Bubug Village had lose wild buffalo in their area in 1960s.
Tuesday 10 June 2008
ताबनन बलि Hot Water
My recent visit to Tabanan was visiting the Hot Spring, one of the three hotsprings in the area. Located only 45 minutes from Denpasar, the area is easy to access with the car and is managed to become tourist destination.
Although not very popular among the foreign tourist, this place has been famous among domestic visitors to enjoy to pool with nice scenery of the River and rice terrace. They provide three pools; hot spring, hot spring with jacuzzi, and pool with cold water.
I also notice that they also rent several bungalows that directly look through the scenery
Sunday 8 June 2008
Bali Indonesia Surf
ali is perhaps the best known island in Indonesia, being a 'dream' destination with names such Padang Padang and Uluwatu with its famous entry cave. Bali gets the full force of southern ocean swells direct from the antarctic with its south-west and south-east coasts being littered with surf spots. The dry winter months (June-Sept) are preferred for surf conditions however this means that these are also the most crowded times. Given a bit of local knowledge it is still possible to find uncrowded perfect breaks on Bali. You'll not find them on this site - go look!
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