Magazine of The FREE Island Information Reviews Restaurants Stories Shopping and more… Believe It or Not This door transports you to another world Nyepi Bali will be shut down for the day Discerning Luxury Cicada Issue No.12 | March 15 - April 14 2009
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THE MAG - Baru di Bali Magazine - Edition 12 - March 2009
THE MAG is free 76-page full color Bali tourist magazine brought to you by Barudibali.com, the worlds leading Bali tourist information website featuring many on-demand videos of Bali and hundreds of spectacular holiday offers.
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Magazine ofThe FREE
Island Information Reviews Restaurants Stories Shopping and more…
Believe It or NotThis door transports you to another world
Ma Joly Advert - Baru Di Bali - Full Page - 2009-01-05 - Colour.indd 1 05/01/2009 17:48:51
www.barudibali.com/ma-joly
www.barudibali.com/kaizan
www.barudibali.com/bali-eka-jaya
www.baliekajaya.com
THE MAG
Shortcuts
IN THIS ISSUE
THE MAG No.12
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10 Shortcuts
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ALONG THE WAY TO AMEDEnjoy the scenic drive to Bali’s south east coast
GUNUNG KAWIThe ‘hand-made’ temple in Tampak Siring
EAST BALI POVERTY PROJECTHeart of Bali
NYEPIWhen silence is occupying the island for a full day
THE SACRED GATEBelieve it or not
magazine.barudibali.com
“We Had Goosebumps..." Photo by Andri
We Had Goosebumps...
It was almost sunset when we entered the area of Tumbu village in Karangasem. The situation at the time was pretty dazzling. The villagers were almost everywhere walking on foot by the road sides: heading home after a day’s work on the hill; marching to the nearest river to bathe; sitting, chatting with each other and noticing our car from…
THIS STORY CONTINUES ON PAGE 52 >>
REVIEWS
BALI FAVES
REGULARS
CICADA .40Discerning Luxury
ROMA AMOR .38Spreading, serving love
CHINOISERIE .44Flavorsome delights, retreats
Belt in Bloom .18
Cool Skull .26
Sweet "Cupcakes" .34
ABOUT BARU DI BALI DOT COM 12 TEAM’S NOTE 14 BALI FLASH 16 MY FIRST TRIP TO BALI 32 ON THE COVER 52 CRASH COURSE BAHASA INDONESIA 54 SUDOKU 54 BALI DIRECTORY 56 BALI MAPS 68 ADDITIONAL INFO 70 SURFSPOTS 73
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on thecover
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THE MAG
The Bali Bagwww.thebalibag.com
As the name indicates, the Bali Bag, packs ‘everything Bali’ into a simple, yet small package that you can carry everywhere as you travel around the island.
The Bali Bag provides you with both interesting discounts and flyers from happening venues around town; showing you the way throughout the island and helping you to have fun and explore it to the fullest.
You can find the Bali Bag for FREE inside popular restaurants, shops, spas and hotels around Kuta and Seminyak areas. Distribution points are added daily so look out for the Bali Bag bamboo pole at any locations nearby.
For further information or inquiries, visit www.thebalibag.com
The Mag is a free monthly magazine published by BarudiBali.com for both tourists and residents of the island of Bali, Indonesia
Publishing company CV Baru di BaliManagement company PT Baru di Bali
Baru di Bali is a state-of-the-art website with a search engine for Bali businesses. At BarudiBali.com you can find hundreds of Bali accommodations, shops, spas, restaurants and real-estate spread all over the island in one easy-to-use website.
You can share your Bali experience with other users by posting personal reviews on a company profile and chatting with each other through the forum or Live Chat.
12No.12 | March 15 - April 14 2009
About Baru di Bali
Baru di Bali literally means ‘New in Bali’. As frequent tourists to Bali we decided to form the website Baru di Bali at www.barudibali.com to bring both international and domestic tourists a complete, quality, information resource about Bali both online and offline with The Mag, Baru di Bali’s official magazine.
HELLO
Baru di Bali TVwww.barudibali.tv
Bali’s first professional internet tourism TV channel at BarudiBali.tv and live syndication with popular channel such as YouTube™ channel 24/7.
Baru di Bali TV brings you unique streaming presentations of Bali destinations, accommodations, restaurants, real-estate and nightlife spots in cool short minute clips.
Heart of Baliwww.heartofbali.org
Brought to you by Baru di Bali, THE MAG and selected partners The Heart of Bali is a Bali-based philanthropic platform supporting Balinese charities in need of exposure and financial supports. The Heart of Bali will announce more charity information in every next edition of THE MAG.
FREE
www.barudibali.com/pandora
www.barudibali.com/queens-tandoor
THE MAG14 Team's Note
TEAM'S NOTE
Om Swastiastu…As part of our new year's resolutions and due to company growth, we decided to join the crowd and move our office to Jalan Laksmana, Oberoi in Seminyak amidst of all the cool bars and restaurants. You can find us right opposite of Mykonos greek restaurant (see our Hello page 12 for detailed contact information).
Yet, this excitement is only a part of the rest of big happenings on the island, especially since Bali is welcoming the Caka Year 1931 (lunar new year). As you can imagine, Bali would turn colorful with the many decorations and ceremonies. Make sure that you have your sarong and sash in your bag while exploring the island; in case you encounter a ceremony, you can join in. Of course, make sure that your camera’s battery is full to capture these merry, colorful events and turn them to last. Oh, you might as well need to conclude your plans for this coming Nyepi – whether or not you will spend it here on the island.
For those of you, especially the first timers in Bali, who don’t have a clue on what Nyepi is, we provide you with a brief description about it on page 36 We also include one of the wonders that Bali has: Gunung Kawi. Legend has it that this cliff face temple was carved using fingers only and is set in a dramatic site (see page 24). Talking about a dramatic site or place, we furthermore visited two fine retreats sited in the least expected locations: Roma Amor on Benesari Street (see page 38) and Chinoiserie on Sunset Road (see page 44). By the way, within this issue, we unveil some of Bali’s best-kept secrets to you. So, whoever you are, wherever you are reading this magazine, let’s just keep this between you and us. Okay?
Anyway, we explored the coastal roads of Bali’s south and southeastern coasts to Amed. We made several stops at spots that seriously not many know about for this month’s Bali Road Trip (see page 20). After the tiring trip, we spent the night and spoiled ourselves in a hidden beauty of Cicada, a compound of luxury townhouses located just behind the bustling thorough-fares of Petitenget Street (see page 40).
Seminyak Square is bringing the old, traditional atmosphere to the neighborhood by organizing Sunday Market every Sunday from ten in the morning up to four in the afternoon. As the banner reads “BREAKFAST MENU, TRADITIONAL FOOD, ORGANIC PRODUCTS, FASHION & SOUVENIRS”, you might need to change that late-at-night-drinking habit on Saturdays and get up early on Sundays to enjoy the festivity.
Prepare yourself for the Galungan day which according to the Balinese calendar will fall this coming March 18th. The 10-day feast ends with Kuningan day on March 28th, in which during that period of time it is believed that all the Balinese Gods will visit the Earth. In order to welcome and appease the Gods, ancestral temples are cleaned, special prayers and offerings are made, and dances are presented.
By late March 17th, the streets of Bali will be fully decorated with giant bamboo poles, creating a very festive atmosphere. On the 18th, streets near the temples will also be crowded with people dressing up in colorful outfits; women are carrying the offerings on their heads and men holding palm leaf offerings in their hands.
Aside from the Gods, it is also believed that the deified ancestors of the family descend to their former homes to rest at this time in their family temple. Those, whose ancestors have not yet been cremated, must go the graveyards and place some offerings there.
Due to its close proximity with the regional election this coming April 9, the Denpasar legislators have announced that they will ban traditional ogoh-ogoh parades on the eve of Nyepi in favor of a more precious task of ensuring the election to take place smoothly without any incident. This is decision was made considering the many street fights and vandalism that arise as the result of rivalries between villages when competing their ogoh-ogoh. Will the theory come to practice? We’ll just see.
Galungan & Kuningan
No ogoh-ogoh this year?It’s Sunday now, get up!
Go and try out these new restaurants: Atelier 13 French Cuisine & Big Bite Oriental Cuisine !
magazine.barudibali.com
Since a rabies outbreak was confirmed in late 2008, thousands of street dogs in Bali have been exterminated. Bali government has just recently stated that the extermination will continue especially in areas like Badung regency until the number of street dogs turns to zero. Only dogs with owners (thus vaccinated) the ones allowed to survive. Moreover, to avoid any possibility of rabies spreading to humans through scratches and bites, “dog-free zones” are now also being proposed to be established in areas like Uluwatu, where many monkeys (potential intermediary) are widely found.
Expanding success of the first shop on Jalan Raya Basangkasa in Seminyak, The Bali Antique Shop threw a soft launch party on February 27 to mark the opening of its other shop still in Seminyak area. Established in early 2007, the Bali Antique Shop has quickly become one of the island's most renowned antique dealerships with a beautiful collection of Asian antiques consisting out of Singha's heads from Sumatra, unique Cambodian artifacts and Buddha heads from Thailand just to name some.
Bye bye, rabies!Two Bali Antique Shops
www.barudibali.com/thezire
THE MAG
Bali FavesThings we love
18 Bali FavesTHE MAG
Belt in Bloom
Yep, the name says it; this belt with its blooming flower reflects the spring spirit and is perfect to cheer up the recently Bali’s rainy days. The genuine leather applied as the base material guarantees the long-lasting use of this belt – and timeless too. Of course, the big flower as the belt’s buckle speaks the loudest. Mind all the wet splashes from the passing vehicles as you walk down the streets of Kuta, Seminyak and everywhere else; keep on gracefully walking because you’d still look shiny.
IDR 550,000
Rosa NegraJl. Oberoi No. 18B, Seminyak
www.barudibali.com/khaima
THE MAG
BALI ROAD TRIP
Miles away from city center, Amed offers an ultimate experience on its natural
view above and under water.
AMEDALONG THE WAY TO
We’ve heard stories about this place, a heaven for divers
and snorkelers alike, up on the corner of Bali’s southeastern coast. Amed was what we circled black on our map as our destination; and along the way, we were offered with breathtaking views of some of the unspoiled natural beauties in the island. And we really meant it when we said UNSPOILED. So, if you are a hotel/villa developer, investor whatsoever looking for a new area to build your fancy establishment, please stop reading because this article is not for you!
Entering Karangasem and facing a big signboard saying “Welcome to Karangasem” gave the idea of visiting this hidden paradise called the Blue Point, which is located up on a hill near the ferry terminal in Padang Bai. Blue Point is a hidden white-sandy beach with seriously crystal-clear water. The beach itself is not very long-stretched and there are no umbrellas or day-beds like the one seen in Kuta. It has a natural plunge pool where you can just soak and relax. You need to walk on foot passing a dirt ground going down the hill through bushes; it can be slippery at times so you need to be careful. But don’t worry, as the sound of rolling waves hitting the rocks below will provide the encouragement for you to find your way down. We need to remind you, however, not to look back when you are facing and enjoying the fine scenery of the ocean; unless you want to ruin everything then go ahead and look back. There’s this extremely UGLY
20 Along The Way to AmedTHE MAG
magazine.barudibali.com
building construction (we assume it to be a hotel/villa) recently ongoing. Certainly we’re not going to give appraisal or anything else good for people behind the construction in this magazine. Of course, we didn’t put this magnificent gift to waste; thus, we swam in the beach. It was wonderful.
After that we made a stop in Tenganan, an old Balinese village that is located close to Candidasa area. The villagers in Tenganan still maintain a strict cosmology and social organization; thus, they must live inside the village and marry from within. The village itself is of a long rectangular shape, which is laid out in tiers, with wide stone steps in between. The houses are constructed out of bricks with no outer layer covering them. The villagers are known as fine makers of basket ware and double-weave ikat (traditional woven cloth) and also the calendar that is written on palm lontar leaves. Visitors are welcome to step into a number of houses there to see a villager while weaving the ikat and/or making the basket. The best thing is there’s no pressure for every visitor to buy their products.
Our next stop was in one of the island’s hidden beauties: White Sand Beach (yep, that’s the name). There’s only a little signboard from a small piece of decayed wood pointing the direction to the beach; so you really need to pay attention on your right side (if you’re coming from Candidasa direction) in order to see it. A narrow road with houses of the villagers and rice fields on both sides are the ones accompanying your journey to the beach. The houses and farming areas would soon alter into a beautiful view of ravines crowded with coconut trees on the bottom. Strangely, cactuses are also decorating the area by occupying many grounds. The asphalted road ends at a temple that sits just before the dirt track heading to the beach; the track is pretty difficult but can fit one car.
Due to the not many people visiting the beach, White Sand is very clean and, of course, also is the water.
Enjoying the water, lying down on the beach and sun bathing is indescribable, especially while listening to the story told by a drink seller about the beach. During full moon, sea turtles can be spotted coming up to shore to lay and hatch their eggs. She and a number of friends would usually help the turtles in hiding the eggs to prevent them from not being stolen and consumed by, sadly, humans. Dolphins are also at times can be seen from the beach, usually in the afternoon. Feeling so ecstatic with swimming and sunbathing, we got back on the road and headed to Amed. The sky turned grey and only within minutes the rain started pouring down. The curvy road up leading to Amed provides magnificent views of rice terraces down on the ravines. It was peculiarly interesting how the rain made the sceneries even more dramatic on that day.
Anyway, we finally entered Amed; and as the stories heard, this area offers a stunning coastal view, yet different from its southern counterparts. Amed consists of landscapes and a series of headlands overlooking bays, lined with colorful fishing boats.
21Along The Way to Amed
magazine.barudibali.com
Along The Road to Rice Terraces
Double-Weave Ikat on Sale at Tenganan Village
Magnificent View of Beaches in Amed
THE MAG
THE MAG
called Seraya, which offers a glimpse of how a typical village would look like. It was around five late in the afternoon and we could see the villagers were marching in a line with buckets full of soap in their hands and towels on their shoulders. Obviously, they were heading to the river to bathe – we could actually see it from the road. However, it is not advised to really watch these people bathing, though.
Following the road, we encountered the Ujung Water Palace in village of Tumbu and made a quick stop at the palace to learn about the place. This royal retreat was constructed by the late King of Karangasem, I Gusti Bagus Djelantik that reigned from 1909 until 1945. It was built to welcome and to serve important guests and Kings from neighboring countries, besides for the pleasure of the King and his royal family. Nowadays, the compound is used by the locals as a place to have a relaxing walk and jog. The main object of this palace is the pool with the surrounding buildings. The architecture is a blend of several cultures: a western style was implemented for the gazebo, the arches are Middle Eastern, and the plentiful detail carving is Balinese. From the water palace you can enjoy beautiful views of Lombok strait and the silhouette of mount Lempuyang. Even though the place is in need of restoration, it is still worth a visit.
Most of the beaches are of black sand, although there are others with yellowish sand. The central area would pretty much be like Legian in Kuta; the difference is, instead of myriads of bars and clubs, both sides of the road in this area are packed with hotels, villas, restaurants and dive centers. Also, sited along the cliff, the road provides spectacular sceneries of the ocean below. Although it is quite ‘full’, the atmosphere in Amed is very calm and peaceful; thus, suitable for those seeking private moments away from the loud music and crowd that are regularly taking place in southern part of the island.
Continuing the road, we felt like being in a roller coaster ride for the curvy road has many ups and downs. Then again, the beautifully dramatic view of the surroundings somewhat made the whole journey through this narrow road, which connects the whole area, felt so smooth. Though it was pretty cloudy and drizzling, we made a stop along the way in a village
22 Along The Way to AmedTHE MAG
Ujung Water Palace , Karangasem
BALI ROAD TRIP
It was around five late in the afternoon and we could see the villagers were marching in a line with buckets full of soap in their hands and towels on their shoulders
www.barudibali.com/hishem
www.barudibali.com/bali-mode
THE MAG24The Elephant Cave
Gunung Kawi
Gunung Kawi is a Hindu temple complex carved into the cliff face. Local legend has it that these temple carvings were ‘hand-made’ back in the 11th century by Kebo Iwa, a legendary giant in Balinese folktales, using nothing but his very own fingers. Reaching this rock temple from the ancient time is through the footpath going down passing breathtakingly beautiful rice terraces.
The calming sound of water trickling along the irrigation channel would be a part that accompanies the journey down to temple. Of course, just like other tourist attractions in this island, one could always find a few Balinese selling merchandises; but don’t worry, for these sellers are very friendly and not aggressive.
As you approach the temple’s area down in the valley, where no shops can be found, the atmosphere turns quiet and very tranquil. It was a rainy day when we went there; and as you might have guessed it, there were no other people but us in the area. In a calm ambience like that, the sound of a priest chanting his mantras and prayers gave a glimpse of how it might feel like to be in the old Bali.
There is also another Hindu temple in this area which is still very much used by the Balinese to pray and lay their offerings. The temple is of several pavilions with the thick hair-like roof that is actually made from the coconut palm. Within this temple’s compound, one can see several narrow caves (fit only for one person in sitting position) which were used by the priests in olden days to meditate.
24 In FocusTHE MAG
S P A N I S H F O O D & L O U N G E
Jalan Drupadi 2, Seminyak - Bali www.lasalbali.com [email protected] 321
www.barudibali.com/la-sal
26 Bali FavesTHE MAG
Cool Skull
This cool skull is a pair of cool jewelries. With an eye in detailed carving yet still simple, these silver rings beautifully resemble the fine modern art. The skull, which is carved out of bone, perfectly portrays both authenticity and ethnicity which are very celebrated today. Be cool with the skull – it’s hip and stylish!
Rock n' RoyaltyJl. Laksamana 20, SeminyakPhone: +62 361 737 569
IDR 345,000 each
Bali FavesThings we love
www.barudibali.com/ripcurl
www.barudibali.com/the-body-spa
What is your organization and what does it do?The East Bali Poverty Project (EBPP) is a non-profit organization established in 1998 after an appeal for help by an isolated 7,200Ha mountain village, forgotten by time and progress. Participatory community surveys in 1998 with 1,056 of the 3,000 families in 19 sub-villages revealed thousands of people living in abject poverty without water, sanitation, roads, schools, health facilities and electricity. Illiteracy was up to 100%. Malnutrition and Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD) were endemic, iodine being the essential nutrient for healthy child births, brain and body development. When interviewed in November 1998 to determine their priorities if EBPP could help, over 1,000 families requested children's education as a foundation for a better future. An inspiring and productive collaboration then began with the most disadvantaged communities. With the philosophy of “helping people to help themselves”, all programs are designed as models that can be replicated, and executed by local people who directly transfer knowledge and appropriate technology within their communities.
What is the mission of your organization?• To empower illiterate and malnourished children through relevant education, improved nutrition and basic stay healthy principles; and• To reduce poverty and promote culturally sensitive sustainable development in impoverished rural communities which have little or no choice to alleviate their own plight.
THE MAG28 Heart of Bali : East Bali Poverty Project
East Bali Poverty Project (EBPP)
Heart of Baliwww.heartofbali.org
Brought to you by Baru di Bali, THE MAG and selected partners The Heart of Bali is a Bali-based philanthropic platform supporting Balinese charities in need of exposure and financial supports. The Heart of Bali will announce more charity information in every next edition of THE MAG.
a charity story by
magazine.barudibali.com 29Heart of Bali : East Bali Poverty Project
What are your short-term and long-term goals? Our goals reflect our Philosophy: Sustainable, long-term change begins with education, education begins with children, and children must be healthy to learn. They are:• provide integrated and relevant education for children as a foundation for future empowerment;• improve nutrition through a nutritious school meal and education for future growth;• ensure better health through health education, improved nutrition and hygiene;• eliminate iodine deficiency among children and reproductive-age women;• improve farmland organically for long term food security and eventual self-reliance
Has your actions made any significant change in line with the goals and missions of your organization?1. Integrated & relevant education for previously illiterate children of illiterate parents• 800 children educated in 6 EBPP Schools; 127 have graduated primary school AND 35 children graduated Junior high school until July 2007; 57 children are now in EBPP Junior high school in 5 hamlets and 29 will graduate this year;• 32 EBPP children in first ever Senior High School program in the village in 2007 and another 29 will join this year;• School buildings: 6, which EBPP call “Community Learning & Development Centers”. Built with 100% community participation, ownership is handed to the communities, and maintenance becomes their responsibility;2. Community health• Initiated 27 Posyandu (monthly community health posts) Ban village with local cadres; • Nutritious food for 1,400 infants in all Posyandu in Ban village;• Primary health education for mothers & babies: All 3,000 families in Desa Ban twice a year;• Polio vaccinations since 2005: facilitated by EBPP team – 1st time in history: 1,117 infants 0-5 yrs;• Measles vaccination since 2005: facilitated by EBPP team – 1st time in history: 1,070 children;• TBC assistance programs.
With the philosophy of “helping people to help themselves”, all programs are designed as models that can be replicated, and executed by local people who directly transfer knowledge and appropriate technology within their communities.
30 Heart of Bali : East Bali Poverty Project
www.barudibali.com/grocer-and-grind
www.barudibali.com/tjs
www.barudibali.com/onyx-boutique
THE MAG32 My First Trip to Bali
Nicoline, HollandMy First Trip to Bali
magazine.barudibali.com 33My First Trip to Bali
Why did you go to Bali in 2003?There’s just something about this island that amazes me. That’s why, after completing my diploma in Tourism Management, I decided to move here. I went here with some friends from school and we stayed in Sanur area; it was at Puri Dalem Hotel to be exact, but only for a week. After that I moved to a place called Kayu Manis Homestay.
What is the best memory about that trip?It was when the airplane’s doors were opened and humidity was striking in. I got all choked with excitement of living on this island. Also interesting was how I got to know the whole island. I mean, I got my second driver’s license here and went around driving myself, asking directions to people around. These people would direct me: kanan (to the right), kiri (to the left), turn left after the traffic light and turn right after you see this tree. It all was very funny. What was the best hang-out place back then?Oh, I think it was Hard Rock Cafe. I always went there every Saturday night to see the house band performed.
What is the biggest change since then?Hmm…obviously Seminyak didn’t really ‘exist’. I could only remember Kudeta, Oberoi Hotel and many empty lands. That’s it. Jalan Kunti wasn’t really like it is now either; it was almost empty. Bali Deli was already there and also were a little number of shops. Today, as you can see, Kunti is packed. Is there anything you miss about the old Bali?The people. I knew this Dutch guy; he was a retirement living in Sanur. He passed away some time ago and I really felt sorry about that. I really miss some of the first people I encountered in this island when I first moved here.
What made you decide to just move here?Bali makes things easy. For instance, when I went to Holland, I called several people to meet up; and all of them needed to look up their agenda first before deciding a time and date. I couldn’t believe that. Here, you can practically do almost everything spontaneously. Isn’t that great?
It was in 2001 when the first time she stepped foot in Bali and returning a year after for her Tourism Management training at one of Bali’s tour operators. In 2003, when she was still in her early 20s, she decided to come back to the Island of Gods to settle. Young and unemployed, Nicoline advertised herself on a local newspaper looking for work; and here she is now, living and enjoying life in Bali to the fullest. Nicoline is a familiar, friendly and cheerful expatriate currently working at The Villas Bali as the Director of Sales.
Kayu Manis Homestay Happy Birthday Rosita !
34Bali FavesTHE MAG
Bali FavesThings we love
Sweet "Cupcakes"
This cosmetic product by Funky Princess assures your gorgeous look, girl! Just put on this “Sweet Lips” lipgloss and you’d need nothing else. The cupcakes shape illustrates on how ‘sweet’ and soft yet solid your lips would look like after applying the lipgloss. Various shades are available.
IDR 30,000 eachIDR 105,000 for the whole package of four
Bali is at present busy preparing yet another festivity in welcoming the Lunar (Saka) New Year, known as Nyepi, which according to the Balinese calendar system will fall this March 26. Nyepi is the most unique festival ever held in Bali, for the whole island will turn into a total silent for 24 straight hours.
However, the night just before the silent day, a real party will take place on the streets in Bali. On this Nyepi eve, all the Balinese Hindus across the island are having extravagant parades and marching along the streets while carrying ogoh-ogoh, a gigantic puppet made from colorful papers, mirrors, suede, tinsel, bamboo and other materials. The ogoh-ogoh itself is skillfully shaped and crafted into forms of monsters representing evil spirits. Fire would be set on the ogoh-ogoh before midnight as a symbol of exorcism, which is to get rid of the evils.
On the Nyepi Day, when practices that involve pleasure, traffic, fire
and work are prohibited, Bali would look like an abandoned civilization. The only public facility allowed to operate is hospitals – even the airport is closed. The non-Hindu residents usually go to hotels as their escape before the ogoh-ogoh parade starts in order not to get caught in traffic; some of the roads are closed for the parade. Aside from hotels, people in Bali who don’t practice Nyepi usually go to neighboring Lombok or Jakarta as the escape - although Java is not really a popular alternative.
Yet, if you want to know how it feels like to spend Nyepi in your home, please make sure that you cover all the gaps on your window and door frames in order not let even a little light to go out. Since noises are also prohibited, you might need to turn your TV and music player with minimum sound – as long as the sound doesn’t reach the road, you will be fine. Oh, and you can’t go out!
Silent Day in BaliNYEPI CELEBRATION
During Nyepi, the whole island will turn into total silence for 24 hours straight
FOOD REVIEWSo beautifully named, Roma Amor gives a complete different make-up in the neighborhood of Benesari Street in Kuta with chic décor of its lounge, bar and restaurant. As affirmed in its name, Roma Amor was born out of love and great passion for Italian delicacies – and some other good deeds too. The owner’s idea to host and entertain dearest friends has managed to bring in a warm, welcoming yet stylish atmosphere to this venue. The words are out; more and more hungry crowds from neighboring corners, even the fashionable Seminyak, are starting to swarm this hidden fine retreat in the midst of a backpacker area.
Despite its short outing, also location, Roma Amor has proven that richness (in flavors and atmosphere) doesn’t have to come in high prices and an expensive location – a steady flow of satisfied customers supports the fact. All the innovative items listed on the menu provide the kind of taste that one could always expect to get in a fancy, or rather pricy, restaurant. A belief that everything based on passion and love would turn out well seems to be at work with Roma Amor since, based on what we saw, customers could find themselves at ease and full comfort sitting on the restaurant or lounging for hours on end – although the complimentary pool table seems to also contribute in making the magic to work.
The menu itself varies and extends to not only finest Italian cuisines, but also international flavors. We picked out Fusili Tonno Cheese, Ravioli Ragu, Spaghetti Carbonara and Mix Seafood Spaghetti from the menu. Looking at the prices (Starts at IDR 10,000) and tasting the rich flavors of our meals, we almost couldn’t believe that we were having fine cuisines in very reasonable prices. Long list of beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are also available, making a feasting occasion even more complete. Good selection of wines, cocktails and aperitifs such as margarita and martini would for sure help you out to wash down the food and clear the throat.
What came to our extreme surprise and made us believe that the whole ‘love philosophy’ really at work was when we were told that the meals were prepared by those with no culinary whatsoever backgrounds. Taking with her a good intention, the owner flew to Ambon in eastern Indonesia and brought with her back to Bali some of the unfortunate, inexpert youngsters and taught them how to serve and prepare meals. The good deed seemed to pay off; especially with the yummy-tasting of meals served and everything else Roma Amor has to offer for its dear customers.
THE MAG
SLEEPOVER REVIEW
Set back just behind the bustling thorough-fares of Jalan Petitenget, a swathe of luxury units called Cicada greets like a refreshing oasis. The six well-appointed townhouses of Cicada provide a deserved dose of solace away from the crowds in Petitenget and thereabouts. Beautiful tropical gardens surround this private yet intimate compound, creating a totally different picture inside from the busy surrounding outside.
Essential comforts are bestowed for customers to indulge themselves with all modern appliances an exclusive townhouse is ever worthy of, while the touch of traditional Indonesian elements provide strong supporting details to enrich the whole environment.
Watching Travel & Living channel could feel so ‘live’ in Cicada, especially owing to the plasma-screen TV that is set right next to beautiful ancient-looking stone carvings. The soft and comfortable sofa wrapped in rattan makes the experience even more actual.
With things are beautifully but simply arranged, nothing is over-stated yet everything is there – ready to enjoy. The open-plan living area adjoins with full-featured kitchen and dining area to create spacious atmosphere and, most of all, a total comfort for the occupants. Plunge pool awaits in the back surrounded by wooden decks with some tropical plantations arranged nearby. Each of the bedrooms has its own ensuite bathroom
THE MAG42
with rainmaker shower-head and deep terrazzo bathtub serve to soothe your senses inside; glass doors and walls with scenic curtains are covering the bathroom area. King-size bed accompanied by another plasma-screen TV in each bedroom would for sure take you to dreamland in a soothing way.
What comes unique about Cicada is the way you have your breakfast (or lunch and dinner) served. Cicada provides the occupants a main kitchen from where they could make their orders; however, no restaurant could be found within the compound. Hence, you will have your orders delivered to your townhouse. It’s amazing, actually, especially during breakfast when generally the occupants wish their breakfast to be delivered at nine. Having my own private ‘butlers’ dressing up in
Balinese-influenced uniforms and walking in and out my townhouse carrying trays full with omelets, fruit plate and juices made me felt so privileged. Looking out my window, I spotted quite a number of staffs with the same uniforms and trays passing the 25-meter lap pool and Jacuzzi to my neighbors; I felt like being in a royal feasting occasion.
Discerning luxury, located nearby the Petitenget beach, neighboring iconic restaurants in Seminyak, Cicada offers an alternative to ordinary hotel service or resorts in the privacy of your own townhouse, reflecting the highest level of demand and luxury that one would expect.
Going a little lower to the back is where the customers can enjoy their meals under the Bali sky. This outdoor area is set in a way that gives the impression of being in a Zen garden with all the natural elements. Sound of the running water calmly falling from a tiled wall and hitting the ground creates a peaceful surrounding. On the very end in the back is an upper deck eating area set on higher ground through steps of natural stone tiles with tables and rattan seats arranged not too close from each other. The area offers a beautiful view from the greenery of rice fields behind the restaurant.
Yet again, what is a restaurant without the food? Offering a fine Chinese dining experience, Chinoiserie’s menu consists of flavorsome oriental cuisines with wide selections of appetizers, mains, soups, vegetables and noodles. The menu also includes the ‘chef recommendation’ and items signed with a thumb up are for sure the must-try! As we have anticipated before, our meals were superb! From the appetizer selections we picked Chinoiserie Appetizer Platter (splendid!), Deep Fried Wantan and Rice Paper Spring Roll. For the mains we had Grilled Wagyu Fillet, Hot Pot Curry Prawn, Coffee Braised Pork Ribs and Kung Po Chicken in Sichuan Dried Chili Sauce (hot and yummy!). Coffee sauce for the pork ribs was very surprisingly tasty and special. The Hot & Sour Shanghai Soup was very refreshing and also impressive were the Egg Plant with Minced Pork from the vegetable selections and Beef Char Kway Teow from the noodles selections. Our favorite for the non-alcoholic beverage was Pina-Coco and for the alcoholic was On the Traffic Light (vodka, lychee liqueur and pineapple).
Imagine yourself being on Sunset Road, sitting for a lunch in an outdoor-setting restaurant in the middle of a burning day. Bad idea! Unless you love your meals topped gray with the dust (it comes for free, though) and if you’re lucky enough you’d be having small yet razor-sharp crushes of rocks thrown (unintentionally, of course) from a big truck passing by. Wait a second; we DO have a spot on Sunset Road that offers all the outdoor lunching and dining conveniences without all the problems mentioned above. It’s called Chinoiserie and it has been there for six months now. Sited near the five-way junction on Sunset Road – on the lane heading to Simpang Siur – Chinoiserie provides its customers the kind of ambient one could even hardly think about in such an area. Smart design of the restaurant, that successfully combines outdoor and indoor concepts into a pleasant open setting and hide it away from the road’s hustle and bustle, has made Chinoiserie a delightful retreat to entertain both your starving mind and body.
Eating areas, which are set into different tiers, endow the customers with choices of comforts within a spacious atmosphere. Indoor area, which looks more like a lounge, is completed with a bar that provides a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The tables are set in quite a distance from each other and the wooden seats are completed with thick, comfortable cushions.
THE MAG
BELIEVE IT OR NOT
46The Sacred GateTHE MAG
The Sacred Gate
The local belief says that whoever opens the gate within the Puri Agung yard will face an endless dark ocean.
Thanks to today’s advancement in technology, people are having the freedom to explore the imaginative world and becoming more adaptable to new, wacko ideas – in fact people love them. Let’s take as an example some of the ideas behind many science fiction movies: war that takes place in between the stars, things that can transform into many different shapes and functions, time machine and even teleporting. Excuse us please, for the latter one might not that really technologically advanced or 21st century-ish whatsoever. Well, at least not here in Bali because the island has this gate that can transport one to a different world, or so; and the gate has been there for centuries!
The gate is within the part of Puri Agung in Kerta Gosa, Klungkung. The local belief says that when the gate is opened from within the Puri Agung yard, whomever opening it would be facing a wide, endless, dark ocean. The fact that on the other side of the gate is a residential area has made it considered as something sacred; thus, the gate has now turned into a place where the Balinese Hindus lay their offerings and worship their Gods. This gate may look like all the other traditional Balinese wooden gates, the ones with all the detailed engraving. However, testimonials from the neighborhood – some generations old – give a strong belief about the magic this gate can do.
It has been years now since the last time the gate was opened; and the person who opened it was a thief trying to escape after burgling one of the houses in the area. Unsuccessful to escape, the thief was found in the morning lying on the steps in front of the gate. Residents in the area found him in trance-like condition, saying: “ocean…ocean…dark…dark….” After this last incident, no one has courage to open the gate. And honestly, we don’t recommend you trying it.
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THE MAG48 The Ten
THE TEN BALINESE HINDU
CEREMONIESYou might have heard it before, and now we’re reconfirming it: there’s never a day in Bali without a ceremony of any kind. Of course, it is not always obvious for visitors to really notice each of these daily-going-on ceremonies as many of them are held deep in the villages – only communal or family ceremonies. However, during certain times like big holidays or full moons, when all the Balinese Hindus across the island are flocking the temples and make their areas so colorful with many traditional decorations such as bamboo poles, the festivity of the religious merit becomes so apparent.
Another aspect that makes the ceremonies are somewhat endless is the respect and gratitude for life cycle (birth, puberty and even death) which the Balinese people translate in the forms of ceremonies. Yet, that is not all for the Balinese Hinduism is also influenced with animism traditions, where every living thing has a soul, and ancestor worship. This means, there are also ceremonies addressed for specific non-human objects or materials. We’re just going to cut the story short here – below is ten of the many ceremonies in Bali.
Gedong-gedongan This ceremony is carried out in the 8th month in Gregorian calendar (7th month in Balinese
calendar) of pregnancy to ask blessings for an easy delivering process. Aside from that, this ceremony is aimed to appeal to the baby’s salvation to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa (superior God) and is considered as an important ritual passage. One of the rituals in Gedong-gedongan is the pregnant woman and her husband wade into the river, where eels and small fishes are placed face down on her protruding belly to show the baby the right way out.
Menek kelih means puberty; thus, this ceremony is held when children enter the
Menek kelih
puberty age, which is when a girl gets her period and boy’s voice cracks. They are paraded around the village announcing to all that they are now adults (and in the olden days, ready to marry). This ceremony also acts as a reminder for the teenagers of their next phase in the cycle, to shed the childish attitude and prepare for the challenges of adolescence. At this stage of life, as adolescents, they have to practice what is called with Trikaya Parisudha, which are the grounds for each individual to conduct nothing but good deeds in order to achieve nirvana. However, not all castes perform this ceremony.
magazine.barudibali.com 49The Ten
This is the ceremony for death. This ceremony is carried out to help the deceased’s soul free
Ngaben
from worldly ties and carry on to the other world. The philosophy behind Ngaben is to return the five elements making up the microcosm of the human body to their original residence, the universe. The five elements, known as Panca Maha Bhuta, are the earth (pertivi), water (apah), fire (teja), air (bayu), and ether (akasa). Since the primordial dimension can only be attained through water and fire, the ashes are dispersed in the waters of the sea or if the distance is too far, in a river.
Galungan is the day when the Balinese Hindus celebrate the victory of justice and
Galungan
truth (Dharma) over evil (Adharma). This celebration lasts for ten days, and during that period of time it is believed that all the Balinese Gods will visit the Earth. In order to welcome and appease the Gods, ancestral temples are cleaned, special prayers and offerings are made, and dances are presented. Also, for ten days, the ancestors are feted in the family temples; many temple festivals occur at this time of year and there is great a feasting.
THE MAG50 The Ten
The Balinese Hindus believe that knowledge plays a very important role in achieving
Saraswati
the goal of life as human beings. Thus, they celebrate Sarawasti, a special day devoted to the Goddess of learning, science and literature. Saraswati rules the intellectual and creative realm, and is the patron saint of libraries and schools. Ceremonies and prayers are held at the temples in family compounds, villages and businesses from morning to noon. Prayers are also held in school temples. Children bring fruit and traditional cakes to school for offerings at the temple.
Odalan is a temple ceremony that usually lasts for three days –larger ones that occur
Odalan
every 5, 10, 30 or 100 years can last for 11 days or longer. The idea of this ceremony is to respect the deities that rule over the temple by giving them a myriad of offerings and music and dance performances. During the ceremony, the Balinese Hindus will ‘invite’ to come down from their dwelling on Mount Agung, the most sacred mountain in Bali, to partake in the activities.
Tumpek Kandang is a celebration dedicated to Sang Hyang Rare Angon, the god of all
Tumpek Kandang
cattle and livestock. On this day Balinese show their appreciation and thankfulness to all domesticated animals (such as cows, pigs, chickens, ducks, dogs and birds) that help them in everyday life. On this day, ceremonies will be held and domesticated animals in Bali receive a great attention: the cows are washed in the river and dressed-up like human beings, with special cone-shaped spiral of coconut leaf placed on their horns; the pigs are decorated, with their bellies wrapped with a white or yellow cloth. They will afterwards be fed the best food.
Tumpek Landep is the day when the Balinese Hindus hold ceremonies dedicated to the
Tumpek Landep
Sanghyang Pasupati, the God of steel implements especially the weapon that has been invested with magical power. On this day Balinese show their gratitude to the god all the steel implements that make Balinese life easier and safer. Traditionally, on this day tools and family heirlooms of weaponry, such as sacred swords or known as keris (double-edged dagger with wavy blade), are sanctified. But as the time passed a great change occur in celebration of this holy day.
Tumpek Pengatag is a special ceremony devoted to the god of
Tumpek Pengatag
all food. On this day, ceremonies will be held in every plantation and farm throughout the island to bless all plants to give human beings good crops and products. The Balinese Hindus pay a great honor to the plants and trees because they provide the breath of earth, oxygen, fruits, leave, food and cool breeze.
Kuningan marks the end of Galungan, which is on the tenth day. Kuningan earns its name
Kuningan
from special offerings of yellow rice. This is a day when families will gather, pray and lay yellow offerings because it is believed as the time when their ancestors return to heaven. However, most Kuningan celebrations take place in the privacy of the home, in the shrines of the family temple and house compound. The day after Kuningan is a time for a holiday, visiting, and having fun.
It was almost sunset when we entered the area of Tumbu village in Karangasem. The situation at the time was pretty dazzling. The villagers were almost everywhere walking on foot by the road sides: heading home after a day’s work on the hill; marching to the nearest river to bathe; sitting, chatting with each other and noticing our car from the sides of the narrow, not very well-asphalted road. Shortly after, as our car hit a wider road still in that village, we spotted this majestic old building in fading white color, surrounded by grassy fields and waters. It had bridges, steps, pillars, water fountains; it looked rather abandoned, yet still very appealing (also gloomy in a way, probably because it was almost dark) that we strangely couldn’t continue our journey but made a stop there. It was a royal retreat where the late King of Karangasem and his family used to use to rest and take pleasure.
The villagers call it “Taman Soekasada Ujung”, but many tourist guidebooks call it “Taman Ujung Water Palace”. The fact that we accidentally found this place during our random journey – instead
of following instructions on a tourist map – made the visit even more ‘glorious’. Since it was quite late when we got there, the palace was already closed for ‘tourism’; so we needed to ‘donate’ in order to get in. Anyway, there we were finally, walking the bridges and pathways of the water palace circling the ponds, feeling like being members of the royal family. We stepped into the Resting House of the late king that consists of four main rooms: two are used to exhibit pictures of the kings and their descendants.
One of the rooms was closed at the time, while according to a local who was also there, the room was normally opened. We stepped to the door of the next room, no big deal. Then again, it was scarily funny how the two of us got all frozen and stopped stepping without any command as we were about to enter the room. We had Goosebumps! Our jaws almost dropped (literally!), especially after reading a sign put on top of the door frame; it said: SACRED. Turned out it was the king’s bedroom. We stepped out in an instant. Hey, we didn’t want any problem (:P). It should be okay to enter this sacred room during daytime, or when the sun is still up high. Just remember one thing: don’t do things that will cause any damage, and you’ll be fine.
on thecover
We had Goosebumps…
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THE MAG
Bahasa Inondesia is the language spoken through the whole Indonesia. The Balinese speaks Bali language with each other, yet you will be fine with these words and short phrases.
54Crash Course Bahasa Indonesia
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Crash Course Bahasa Indonesia
Apa Kabar? How are you?Baik, terima kasih Fine, thank youSelamat pagi Good morningSelamat siang Good afternoon (< 3pm) Selamat sore Good afternoon (> 3 pm)Selamat malam Good eveningSampai jumpa lagi See you laterSampai nanti See you laterNama saya... My name is...Silahkan Here you go
Permisi Excuse meTidak/ Ya No/ YesSaya lapar I'm hungrySaya haus I'm thirstyAda bir? Do you have beer?Saya mau Nasi Campur I want mixed riceDimana hotel? Where is the hotel?Kanan / Kiri Right / LeftMaaf Sorry
It's Sudoku Time!Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row and column must contain one of each digit, as must evey 3x3 square.
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Belgian RestaurantsMannekepis Bistro (MAP2-F3)Jl. Raya Seminyak 2, Seminyakphone: +62 361 847 5784www.barudibali.com/mannekepis
Paradise Property Bali (MAP2-B4)Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai Junction, Nusa DuaJl. Laksmana, Seminyakphone: +62 361 77 35 40www.barudibali.com/paradise-property-bali
Property Gallery Bali (MAP1-A1)Jl. Patih Jelantik Blok Valet 1 3, Kutaphone: +62 361 769 098www.barudibali.com/property-gallery-bali
Well Being Spa (MAP2-B4)Jl. Laksmana 66 B Seminyakphone: +62 361 735 573www.barudibali.com/well-being-spa
60 Bali Directory
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A 25 AmedAmed is one of the Bali’s best-kept secrets that hosts some of the island’s enchanting beaches. With not much is going on for the nightlife, Amed is a perfect destination for families and the more mature travelers.
24 AmlapuraAmlapura is the main town in Karan-gasem Regency. It hosts some of the island’s enchanting attractions such as the Tirta Gangga (the Water Palace).
45 Asahduren (clove plantation)Asahduren Clove Plantation is located 20 km inland from Negara. It offers the beautiful sight from the greenery of clove plantations.
B47 Bali Barat National ParkBali Barat National Park lies at the western side of Bali and occupies an estimated 10% of Bali’s total land area. The park is the last refuge of one of the most endangered birds of the world: the Bali Starling.
13 Bali Bird ParkBali Bird Park provides a home to almost 1000 birds of 250 different species. Here you can find the largest and finest collection of Indonesian birds in the world plus fantastic birds from Africa & South America.
29 BangliBangli offers beautiful views of Mount and Lake Batur. Situated hundreds of meters above the sea level, the breeze in Bangli is cool and very fresh.
44 BanjarBanjar is a worth visit place to watch cockfights and Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali’s only Buddhist monastery. You can as well bathe at the Banjar’s hot springs during your visit there.
Additional Bali Information (A to Z)
Batubulan
Pura Besakih - Mother Temple
Candi Dasa beach
Amlapura - Tirta Gangga
Denpasar - War Monument
12 BatubulanBatubulan is located on the border of Denpasar & Gianyar. It is known as the home of stone sculptures. The craftsmen can make up your order and arrange to ship it to your home address.
36 BedugulBedugul is a village located in the mountainous area connecting north and south Bali.
28 Besakih Temple Besakih is the most important, sacred temple in Bali. Known as the Mother Temple, Besakih provides spectacular views of the natural surroundings.
39 Blahmantung WaterfallBlahmantung Waterfall is located in the Pupuan area of Tabanan. This part of Bali is very fertile and recieves a lot of rain. You can swim here, or at least go for a soak in the shallow water.
37 Botanical GardensEka Karya Botanical Garden in Bedugul was founded in 1959 and is the youngest yet the largest of the four Indonesian botanical gardens.
34 Butterfly ParkThe Butterfly Park is located 7 km from Tabanan on the way to Panebel. It is the biggest butterfly park in Asia and it’s perfect to relax with the family.
C 22 Candi DasaCandi Dasa is a fishing village which currently is undergoing rapid tourist developments. Candi Dasa is considered as a hassle-free destination.
14 CelukCeluk, in the sub-district of Sukawati, is renowned for its gold and silver crafting.
D 10 DenpasarDenpasar is the capital of Bali, with an estimated of 500,000 people of different backgrounds live in the area. A number of Bali’s notable museums is located in Denpasar.
G 18 GianyarGianyar is the regency famous for artistic and high culture. As a tourism area, Gianyar has beautiful natural views like mountains and coasts.
48 GilimanukGilimanuk is the main port for traffic from Bali to Java and vice versa. Gilimanuk can be reached by heading west from Negara, or west through the National Park from Singaraja.
40 GitgitLocated on a busy road 11km south of Singaraja, Gitgit is the most visited waterfall in Bali.
15 Goa GajahGoa Gajah or Elephant Cave comes outstanding with the shape of its entrance: a skillfully carved depiction entangling leaves, rocks, animals, ocean waves and demonic human shapes running from the gaping mouth.
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Goa Gajah
20 Goa LawahGoa Lawah is inhibited by thousands of bats hanging down on the ceiling and flying around. It is also the home of one of the most scared temples in Bali, Pura Goa Lawah.
2 Garuda Wisnu KencanaGWK (Garuda Wisnu Kencana) is a cultural park and a landmark with gigantic statue (still under construction) of Vishnu sitting on his ride, which is half man half Garuda bird.
J 4 JimbaranJimbaran is a fishing village which also houses some of the finest luxury hotels in the world. The beaches of Jimbaran are cluttered with seafood restaurants, where you can dine with your feet on the sand.
K 31 KintamaniKintamani is the village which is also considered as the best spot to view the beauty of Mount and Lake Batur.
19 KlungkungKlungkung holds a special place in Bali’s history and culture. As artistic centers, the palaces wherein the Kings of Klungkung and noblemen patronized and developed the styles of music, drama and the fine arts that flourish today.
7 KutaKuta is the most celebrated area in Bali. The beach area is also known as the center of nightlife activities and a shopping Mecca with its lines of shops, boutiques and galleries.
Goa Lawah
Kuta - Poppies Lane
Lake Batur
Lake Bratan - Ulun Danu temple
Petulu - Bird watching
L 30 Lake BaturLake Batur is the biggest lake in Bali. It lies down in the feet of Mount Batur and Mount Abang.
38 Lake BratanLake Bratan is located in Bedugul and is the second largest lake in Bali. Bratan offers stunning view of Pura Ulun Danu temple that solemnly guards the lake.
2 LovinaLovina is located on the north shore of Bali. This area is famous with its morning dolphin trip.
M 27 Mount AgungMount Agung is Bali’s highest and holiest mountain as it is believed that the mountain is the home of the Gods. Bali’s most sacred temple, the Mother Temple of Besakih, sits on its slope.
N 46 NegaraNegara is mainly known as the place to see Makepung or the Bull Race. This area is rarely visited by tourists, while it actually also offers a glimpse of the real Bali.
3 Nusa DuaNusa Dua is known as the home of large international 5-star resorts. Many beautiful beaches with quieter atmosphere can be found in this area.
51 Nusa CeninganNusa Ceningan offers many tourist attractions such as cockfighting and the unique seaweed farming.
50 Nusa LembonganNusa Lembongan is a small island located 20 km off the east coast of Bali. The island is known as a virgin island with crystal-clear waters.
49 Nusa MenjanganNusa Menjangan is a small island in the northwestern off the Bali Barat National Park. Only a limited number of divers are allowed to visit the island daily. All dive sites are only a short boat trip away.
50 Nusa PenidaThe main attraction in Nusa Penida lies on the chance to see turtles, sharks, and reefs in crystal-clear visibility.
6 Nusa Serangan (Turtle Island)The main attraction in Nusa Penida lies on the chance to see turtles, sharks, and reefs in crystal-clear visibility.
P 21 PadangbaiPadangbai is a small fishing village in East Bali. It offers the visitors with some of Bali’s most beautiful white sandy beaches.
17 PetuluPetulu is a heaven for photographers who love the nature shots. Petulu provides awesome bird watching activity, where around 6000 egrets live around the area.
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Additional Bali Information (A to Z)
Sangeh Monkey Forest
S 33 Sangeh Monkey ForestSangeh Monkey Forest is located in the southwestern Bali. The main attractions here are the monkeys inhabiting both the trees and the temple.
9 SanurSanur is one Bali’s largest traditional villages and is also an established tourist area. It is known as the best spot to watch the sun rises in its calm white sandy beach.
8 SeminyakSeminyak is one of Bali’s top tourist resorts with its natural appeal and great collections of fine restaurants. It also houses many of nice places to stay (hotels and villas).
43 Sing Sing WaterfallLocated 1km out of Lovina town, Sing Sing Waterfall is perfect for people who wish to see a waterfall and do not want to deviate far from the main road.
41 SingarajaSingaraja was the capital of Bali before Denpasar. It was Bali’s main port during the Dutch occupation and still retains colonial feel, especially with its clean, quiet and distinct culture.
T 35 TabananThe regency of Tabanan is the home of the dramatic temple of Tanah Lot, which probably is known as the most photographed temple in Bali.
11 Tanah LotTanah Lot, one of the most popular places of interest in Bali, is located in the Tabanan Regency. It is the home of a dramatic oceanfront Hindu temple, which is one of the main temples in the worship of Balinese Gods.
5 Tanjung BenoaTanjung Benoa is a scenic area full of coconut palms. It is one of the perfect spots for water sports with no shortage of shops catering to marine sports enthusiasts.
32 TegallalangTegallalang is a major area for handicraft production in Bali. There are several businesses in this area, but they are not visible to the passing tourists. The view here on the rice paddies is amazing.
26 TulambenTulamben is nowadays considered as Bali’s most famous diving spot that contains a stunningly diverse underwater ecosystem.
U 16 UbudUbud is largely known as a remarkable center of fine arts, dance and music. The spectacular views of green paddy terraces makes Ubud as one of the most visited areas in Bali.
23 Ujung Water PalaceTaman Ujung or also known as the Ujung Water Palace was built in 1919 by the late King of Karangasem, I Gusti Bagus Jelantik, to welcome and serve important guests and Kings from other country.
1 UluwatuUluwatu is known for its breathtaking cliff views, with its spectacular temple overlooking the clear blue water of the ocean below. Plenty of monkeys inhibit the area. Kecak dance is also regularly performed in Uluwatu’s amphitheatre.
Tanah Lot
Uluwatu - Kecak dance
- To respect the place and its people: it is sacred, so do not make noise or damages and act normal.
- That a woman who is having her period, is not allowed to enter the temple.
- That a priest is very important, so whenever he is praying, don’t sit higher then him and don’t bother him with your flash from your camera.
- That you should also not take flashing pictures of other people praying.
- To wear a sarong and a ribbon when you attend a ceremony (those are often provided to you when necessary).
- To not walk in front of a praying person.
Before entering a temple, please remind yourself:
Some Facts about Bali:
Bali is one of the tens of thousands islands in the Indonesian archipel-ago that lies between the country’s most populated island, Java, and Lombok. It is also one of the coun-try’s most developed provinces with the capital in Denpasar, located on the southern part of the island.
Bali is divided into 8 regencies (Badung, Bangli, Buleleng, Gianyar, Jembrana, Karangasem, Klungkung and Tabanan) and 1 city (Den-pasar). Unlike most of the Muslim-majority Indonesia, around 94% out of Bali’s 3 million population adhere to Balinese Hinduism, which is a combination of the existing local beliefs and Hindu influences.
As the main tourist destination in Indonesia, Bali is renowned for its highly developed arts, including music, dance, sculpture, painting, metalworking and leather. The island is also the home of wildlife such as hundreds of bird species (including the endangered Bali Star-ling), Indian Muntjac, Mouse-deer, Leopard Cat, Black Giant Squirrel, and several species of macaque and leaf monkey.
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Surfspots in BaliThe island’s countless natural ir-resistible charms have awarded Bali as one of the world’s most visited holiday destination. With its tropical climate (temperatures averaging 31 degrees Celsius, 88 fahrenheit), Bali is warm all year round – which is perfect to explore its smoking vol-canoes, stepped rice fields, remote beaches, towering cliffs, famous surf breaks and the majestic thousand- year-old temples.
The hospitable and friendly natives of the Balinese and their way of life are by many considered as a mag-net, inspiring those who have been in the island to go back again and those who have not to come.
UluwatuThere are 4 different sections at Uluwatu: 1. Temples which is a long and hollow wave that works on the mid to high tide. 2. The Peak right in front of the warungs in line with the cave also best on the high tide. 3. Racetrack is a super fast with a barrel that works on the low tide, but gets seriously shallow. 4. Outside Corner is considered by many to be one of the best waves anywhere in the world. The corner won’t even start to break unless the swell is at least in the 8’ range.
Nyang-NyangNyang Nyang beach is known as one of great spot to surf in Bali. Hiding from the crowd of the people plus big and huge wave makes this beach like a secret paradise for the surfer.
Green BaliGreen Ball is situated at the bottom of a cliff. No worries going down but after you have been surfing for a couple of hours the return leg is a bit harder.
Nusa DuaTo get to this reef you have to drive in to the town itself and then weave your way south, there are a couple of other good waves in this area also, so it pays to do a bit of exploring.
Sri LankaNorth of Nusa Dua is Sri Lanka, a bowly right, which breaks into a deep water channel.
Sanur ReefSanur Reef is a sheltered reef break that only works once in a while. November - April (Wet Season) provides optimum time of year for the waves.
Padang GalakPadang Galak is a reliable rivermouth beach break north of Sanur. The surf break is quite popular here, but only works under certain conditions.
KetewelThe surfing crowd at Ketewel usually consists of locals and Japanese, including girls on body boards. Ketewel seemed like a place beginners/intermediates might enjoy, not people looking for epic surfing.
Padang BaiPadang Bai has the flat bottomed mixed reef and sandy bottom with some walls.
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Bargaining in Bali
1. No matter how much the vendors give as the opening price, you have to bargain for as much as half (or even less) of the price.
2. It is better for you to go to the shop that has everything: t-shirts, shorts, wood handicrafts, etc. By doing a one-stop shopping, which means you will buy quite a lot, it is easier for you to get a bigger discount.
3. Since there are ranges of shops offering pretty much the same things, you can always walk away from one shop to another if a deal cannot be reached. But walk slowly. Normally, if you offer a reasonable price on a bargain, in which the vendor can still make some profits and the price is good for you, the vendor would call you back to his/her shop as you walk away.
4. Try not to be not so apparent that you really want the thing you are looking at on a shop; the vendors are not stupid and can smell your desire, thus will take the advantage by putting the price high.
5. Tell the vendor that if he/she gives you a good price, than you will tell your other friends to shop from him/her.
6. Know the martket prices, or, pretend you do. By saying “I’ve seen this product before much cheaper” will probably lead to a cheaper price.
7. Have fun and stay friendly. Bargaining is part of the culture and it should be a fun activity.
MedewiMedewi is a perfect fun wave for all surfers. Come early to avoid onshore winds. The swell is generally smaller than at Kuta spots.
BalianBalian gets some swells and is a quiet place in north Bali. Its location that is close to the main road makes surfers can easily access this place.
Canggu & PererenanCanggu and Pererenan are places that most surfers will know about, with their larger than Kuta swells, sandy beach and not much else. Canggu however is becoming better known in tourist and expat circles.
Kuta ReefKuta Reef is an exposed reef break that is often working. May – October (Dry Season) is the best time of year for waves here.
BelanganThe reef in Belangan is close to shore and a short paddle out. Belangan is a very well-known break and can get very crowded in the peak season.
DreamlandDreamland is famous for its waves that can peel perfectly for hundreds of meters over the reef. The waves are also reserved for expert surfers only. Swimming here is advisable only on low tide.
BinginBingin gets very crowded through the peak season with only one small take off area. The wave itself is pretty mechanical, but short.
LebihThe surf break in Lebih is greatly affected by direction of the swell.
ImpossiblesImpossibles is the least crowded surfing area in Bali. It is located between Bingin and Padang Padang, so if you are at either of those two places you can see what is happening at Impossibles.
Padang PadangPadang Padang only starts to work when a big swell is running. It is of an easy paddle out through the channel.
73Bali Information
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(0361) 848 2222 | KARMA KANDARA | JALAN VILLA KANDARABANJAR WIJAYA KUSUMA | UNGASAN
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KARMA KANDARA | UNGASAN
848 2223
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by the sea
Nammos Beach Club is Bali’s most exciting new
beach experience featuring a broad bamboo
verandah, perfect for tail-shaking, a bar and kitchen
area where authentic Mediterranean pizzas crisp in
a wood-fired oven. Musical mixologists play eclectic
Balearic blends from noon till late while you enjoy
sunset cocktails and an extensive wine list.
(0361) 848 2222 | KARMA KANDARA | JALAN VILLA KANDARABANJAR WIJAYA KUSUMA | UNGASAN