So Long Bali

We arrived in Bali on the wake of new terror alerts. Foreigners were being advised to avoid crowds, restaurants, bars, clubs, airports, etc. We had arranged for a guide to give us a full day tour focused more on culture, temples and nature. Nyoman was waiting to pick us up at the port and we decided to go to our hotel in Nusa Dua to drop off our luggage first. We were then whisked away through Denpasar and headed for Ubud.

Our first stop was the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary; it is an amazing place where monkeys rule and the jungle is the setting for temples and animal carvings and statues. Totally reminiscent of one of the Indiana Jones movies for which I'm sure it was the inspiration, except this is the real thing.

We had taken no more than fifty steps into the sanctuary when from the canopy high above a well directed missile hit me on the head; yes, monkey poop. I didn't particularly mind the baptism but it fell on Blake to clean it off (thank God for wet wipes).

Then off to the home of coffee farmers. Here I had my second taste (the first time was in Vancouver as a Christmas present from Blake) of Luwak coffee (these are the coffee beans that get "special" processing through the Luwak's digestive system before being washed and roasted) as well as other delicious teas and coffees. It was also an opportunity to see a typical family home which consists of seven structures including the family temple. All the structures within the walled compound are oriented according to Hindu feng shui and usually house several generations of the same family.

Then we were off to Pura Tirta Empul Temple, known for its sacred spring water believed to have healing powers. This is where Nyoman swiftly wrapped a Sarong around Blake's waist, giving him no opportunity to complain, as a requisite for entering the temple.

Pura Gunung Kawi Temple, stunning 11th century royal tombs carved on the cliffs through which the Pakerisan river runs.

From there we went to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. First we stopped for lunch and were greeted with magnificent views of the terraces. We then drove ahead for a different perspective.

 

Finally, a stop at Tegenungan Waterfall. It is the end of the rainy season and the falls are heavy with mud coloured water fed by the rice paddies run-off. It is an impressive sight which marked the end of our day.

All in all it was an exciting day full of wondrous and spiritual sights. The Balinese people are primarily Hindu and their deep spirituality is felt throughout, from the twice-daily offerings to their gentle manners.

This is the end of our adventure and it has been a great one. The cruise was excellent, we particularly enjoyed how balanced the itinerary was and the people we met. Australia is a place we'll want to go back to; it is a big country with much down-to-earth charm and natural beauty.

Thanks for following along!! till the next time.

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