Vancouver Banshee

sarah m. dorsey designs: Coral Dresser for the Guest Bedroom

2012-06-11T12:21:00.001-07:00

sarah m. dorsey designs: Coral Dresser for the Guest Bedroom: Yesterday I finished painting the dresser for the guest room - I used a custom mix of Annie Sloan chalk paint - Barcelona Orange and Emp...

I just love this dresser project .. and I have JUST this weekend finished my own coral dressers with the same paints .. What a coincidence ... I think thought I will do turquoise accents as that is my absolute favorite combo at the moment.

Cheers Niamh

Indonesia -- Day 15 Woot !! Yonggungsa, Incheon, Korea

2012-04-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

Yonggungsa, Incheon, Korea

If you have a long layover in Seoul Incheon Airport then you can take one to the layover tours offered by Freedom and Hana Tours. Usually you need a minimum of two people and the 1/2 day tour is approx $40 USD/CAD.

Yonggungsa, Incheon, Korea

The Yonggungsa Temple is located on the northeastern slopes of Baekunsan Mountain. From the Official Site of Korea Tourism:

During the Silla Dynasty (about 1,300 years ago) the temple was named ‘Baekunsa’ by King Munmu, in reference to the temple’s mountain home. During the Joseon Dynasty, it was the temporary residence of Heungseon Daewongun (1820~1898, a politician and father of King Gojong), who stayed at the temple for 10 years praying for his son to ascend to the throne. When his son was finally crowned king, Heungseon Daewongun re-built the temple and changed the name to Yonggungsa.

The temple consists of various buildings such as Gwaneumjeon (re-constructed by Heungseon Daewongun), Yosachae (home of the monks), Chilseonggak, and Yonghwanggak. In Yosachae, the writings of Heuseon Daewongun are hung on the wall and recently, an 11 meter-high statue of Maitreya was put in place. In front of the temple are two 1,300 year-old zelkova trees.

Yonggungsa, Incheon, Korea

The colors and artwork surrounding the temple are gorgeous. Again, not tacky or dated, but very beautiful and intricate.

Yonggungsa, Incheon, Korea

If you would like to visit Korea, North OR South, then please

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Yonggungsa, Incheon, Korea

Indonesia -- Day 15 Final Shopping in Ubud and ARMA Hotel

2012-04-16T15:00:00.000-07:00

Most of these pictures are self explanatory. Basically full photos of all the STUFF !!! you can buy at the Ubud Fundamental and Art Market. You can't miss it. Shop EARLY in the day to get the best deal and bargain HARD !!. Your price should be around 1/4-1/2 of what the starting pricing was. Of course, it also depends on what you can buy similar items for in your home place.

Ubud Market, Ubud, Bali

Jewelry at Ubud Market, Ubud, Bali

Ubud Market, Ubud, Bali

Wood Carvings at Ubud Market, Ubud, Bali

After my last minute run into town to grab some more jewelry, I came back to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast and get everything ready for checkout.

ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

These photos were taken around the ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa in the early morning. The hotel is just so gorgeous !! I can't describe it fully. In the warmth and quiet of the morning sunrise it was beautifully serene.

ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

The stream running through the grounds and leading to the rice fields.

ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

The bridge over the lily pond to the theatre breakfast room.

ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

The lily ponds with the rice fields in the background

ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

The door frame of my room. Aren't the carvings and colors fantastic?

ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

View from my balcony at the ARMA Hotel.

ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

The artwork in my room at the ARMA Hotel.

ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

My room at the ARMA.

The view from my balcony at the ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

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Market deals at ARMA Resort Hotel and Spa, Ubud, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 14 Last full day in Ubud

2012-04-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

After doing some final bargaining in the market and taking in as many sights in Ubud as I could fit, I walked back to the ARMA Resort Hotel. Along the way I passed this tiny temple on the street with an elaborate celebration going on.

Ubud Temple Celebration, Bali

I love this boy on the chair ringing the chimes in time.

ARMA Resort Pool, Ubud, Bali

When I arrived back at the hotel and was walking to my room (overlooking the pool) this was the gorgeous sight that I passed. Doesn't it just scream for you to jump in? Unfortunately I didn't have time for that as I had to get ready and meet everyone in the lobby for our final and Goodbye dinner.

Jack and myself, Ubud

Ubud Final Dinner

This was my final dinner in Ubud. Unfortunately I can't remember the restaurant for the life of me. It was a combination of local dishes and satay with coconut rice. Just amazing !!! and of course the ever present and deliciously COLD Bintang !!

Frog on my balcony at ARMA Hotel and Resort, Ubud, Bali

When we got back to the hotel, I noticed this little fella jumping in the dark. So cute !! The sounds of all the frogs and other wildlife in the stillness of the night was so relaxing.

Lizard on my balcony ceiling at ARMA Hotel and Resort, Ubud, Bali

Apparently all my new friends were sorry to see me go as they came out in force this night.

Lizard on my balcony ceiling at ARMA Hotel and Resort, Ubud, Bali

A little late night lizard party?

Lizard on my balcony ceiling at ARMA Hotel and Resort, Ubud, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

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The curtains in my room, ARMA Resort Hotel , Ubud

Isn't this teal and gray damask print amazing?

Indonesia -- Day 14 Ubud Palace, Bali

2012-04-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

In the center of Ubud, right near the market is one of the original palaces, Puri Saren Agung.

Ubud Palace, Bali

Again with the amazing stone work and carvings and doors to heaven.

Ubud Palace, Bali

The palace was Ubud's first hotel and still today accepts some homestay visitors.

Ubud Palace, Bali

The grounds feature a lot of gold leaf carvings and are quite formal.

Ubud Palace, Bali

Amazing details, not only in the carvings but in the paint work as well.

Ubud Palace, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

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Ubud Palace, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 13 Ubud Market, Bali

2012-04-02T15:00:00.000-07:00

Ubud Market, Bali

The Ubud market is Jalan Raya and Jalan Monkey Forest. The market opens early and it is the best time for bargaining.

Ubud Market, Bali

Canangs and Food for sale at the Ubud Market

Ubud Market, Bali

The different pieces for canangs being assembled.

Ubud Market, Bali

Look at the basket this woman is carrying on her head.

Ubud Market, Bali

The market has every kind of souvenier you could want of Bali. Most market dealers are very superstitious. Usually the first customer of the day will "foretell" their sales fortune for the day.

Ubud Market, Bali

Bartering is almost mandatory. If you are shy you may not get the best deal. Always be polite and firm when bartering. If you are unsure of how low to go, price out the item you want at a couple of stalls and then purchase for at least 1/2 or even a 1/3 of the lowest price you were quoted.

Ubud Market, Bali

I am amazed at that these woman can carry on their heads.

Ubud Market, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

contact Adventures Abroad at 1 800 665 3998

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Ubud Market, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 13 Industry of Ubud, Stone Carvings and Art

2012-04-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

Religious Stone Carvings, Ubud, Bali

Buying Art

If you like it, buy it. It's hard to know if you like it in an unfamiliar environment. Spend some time with a work, and see how it makes you feel. If it is a startlingly strong feeling, an excitement, then the chemistry is good. Buy it. Prices are generally not negotiable in the fine art galleries. For more "commercial" art, in the smaller, less formal galleries, however, you may ask if the price is open to discussion. Don't worry too much about price. Prices in Ubud, tend to be very, very reasonable. This holds for truly fine art, and also for the many attractive and decorative paintings that are produced and sold throughout the area. Don't turn up your nose a the latter category; much of the less expensive art available in Ubud clearly falls into the category of Folk Art or High Quality Craft. As such, most are works of lasting value, which will be greatly appreciated at home, and will perhaps appreciate in value as well.

Craft (As Opposed to Art)

Somewhere there is a dividing fine between "art' and "craft," and regardless of where you place the fine, the Ubud area has plenty of both. On the side of craft, there are scores of "art shops" lining the main roads which connect Ubud to surrounding towns. Notably, the road from Peliatan to Pujung, which is dotted with woodcarving galleries and other craft shops. In Tegallalang and surrounding villages you will find Bali's best Garuda and Singga carvers, among the cheesy pop-art wooden souvenirs. Small woodcarvings of every sort are widely available in Ubud, Tegallalang, Pujung, Nyuh Kuning, Mas, Teges, and in abundance at the Sukawati art market, about twenty minutes south of Ubud. You can get pieces in naturally-finished woods representing animals, religious figures, people and so forth. Some woodcarvings are art, and others are simply craft. We'll leave it to you to decide which is which.

Throughout the Ubud area, you can pick up inexpensive small paintings which make excellent decorative accents back home. Other crafts in the towns surrounding Ubud include weaving (Gianyar area), stone carving (Batubulan), basket making (Bona), bamboo and rattan work (Sakah and Bona), jewellery (Celuk), bone and coconut carving (Tampaksiring), batik, furniture making, bronze casting, and, decorative metalwork. Most guidebooks have a good map showing which towns are centres for which craft.

The entire Gianyar district is densely populated with craftspeople in every imaginable medium. The majority of them are delighted to create works to order, so let loose the latent designer in you. Simply bring along a sketch, sample, or magazine clipping. Alternatively, if you like what you see in a showroom, but have an idea how it could be improved, explain what variation you have in mind. Don't forget to agree on a price in advance.

One word of warning to craft-shoppers. Prices are usually very, very flexible. Be prepared to barter. But always be polite. Some merchants are firm about prices, and rightly so.

Religious Stone Carvings, Ubud, Bali

Farming, Ubud, Bali

Kite Store, Ubud, Bali

Art, Ubud, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

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Art, Ubud, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 13 Industry of Ubud, Wood Carving

2012-03-30T15:00:00.000-07:00

Industry in Ubud, Bali

Food stalls and convienence stores are a staple of life.

Industry in Ubud, Bali

This woman is creating thatched roofing.

Industry in Ubud, Bali

Farming and water buffalos are a basic of life.

Industry in Ubud, Bali

Wood carving is amazing in this area of Bali. Look at the exquisite pieces below and the detail.

Industry in Ubud, Bali

Door Frames are beyond gorgeous !!

Industry in Ubud, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

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Industry in Ubud, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 13 Industry in Ubud, Bali

2012-03-29T15:00:00.001-07:00

Industry in Ubud, Bali

Food cart stalls are very popular.

Industry in Ubud, Bali

Wood carving mirrors and window frames

Industry in Ubud, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

contact Adventures Abroad at 1 800 665 3998

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Industry in Ubud, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 13 Barong and Keris Dance (Part 2), Batubulan Village, Ubud

2012-03-28T15:00:00.001-07:00

Barong and Keris Dance, Ubud, Bali

Wikipedia:

Barong is a lion-like creature and character in the mythology of Bali, Indonesia. He is the king of the spirits, leader of the hosts of good, and enemy of Rangda, the demon queen and mother of all spirit guarders in the mythological traditions of Bali. The battle between Barong and Rangda is featured in Barong dance to represent the eternal battle between good and evil

Barong and Keris Dance, Ubud, Bali

In Balinese mythology, the good spirit is identified as Banas Pati Raja. Banas Pati Raja is the fourth "brother" or spirit child that accompanies a child throughout their life, similar concept with guardian angel. Banas Pati Raja is the spirit which animates Barong. A protector spirit, he is often represented as a lion. The Barong is often portrayed accompanied by two monkeys. Barong is portrayed as a lion with red head, covered in white thick fur, and wearing gilded jewelry adorned with pieces of mirrors. The shape of lion Barong is somewhat similar to Pekingese dog.

Barong and Keris Dance, Ubud, Bali

On the other hand, Rangda is Barong's opposite. While Barong represent good, Rangda represent evil. Rangda is known as a demon queen, the incarnation of Calon Arang, the legendary witch that wrecking havoc in ancient Java during the reign of Airlangga in 10th century. It is said that Calon Arang was a widow, powerful in black magic, who often damaged farmer's crops and caused disease to come. She had a girl, named Ratna Manggali, who, though beautiful, could not get a husband because people were afraid of her mother. Because of the difficulties faced by her daughter, Calon Arang was angry and she intended to take revenge by kidnapping a young girl. She brought the girl to a temple to be sacrificed to the goddess Durga. The next day, a great flood engulfed the village and many people died. Disease also appeared.

King Airlangga, who had heard of this matter, then asked for his advisor, Empu Bharada, to deal with this problem. Empu Bharada then sent his disciple, Empu Bahula, to be married to Ratna. Both were married with a huge feast that lasted seven days and seven nights, and the situation returned to normal. Calon Arang had a book that contained magic incantations. One day, this book was found by Empu Bahula, who turned it over to Empu Bharada. As soon as Calon Arang knew that the book had been stolen, she became angry and decided to fight Empu Bharada. Without the help of Durga, Calon Arang was defeated. Since she was defeated, the village was safe from the threat of Calon Arang's black magic.

Barong and Keris Dance, Ubud, Bali

The lion is the popular one as it comes from the Gianyar region where Ubud, the home of tourist's Balinese dance viewing ritual is located. Within the calon arang, the dance drama in which the Barong appears, the barong responds to Rangda's use of magic to control and kill her to restore balance. In traditional Barong dance performance, he is portrayed in his struggles against Rangda, it is the popular part of Balinese culture. The mythical creature would dance along the street to the calon arang dance. A priest would throw holy water at it.

The dance opened with the playful two monkeys teasing Barong in peaceful environs.

The next scene is popularly known as keris dance. The Rangda character appear and wrecking havoc, casting black magic upon male dancers that represents Airlangga's soldier ordering them to commit suicide. In trance these men stab themself on their chest with their own kris, while Barong and the priest casting magic to protect these men by making them invulnerable to sharp objects.

The dance ended with the final battle between Barong and Rangda, concluded with the victory of Barong over Rangda. Rangda ran away, the evil is defeated, and the celestial order was restored.

Barong and Keris Dance, Ubud, Bali

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Barong and Keris Dance, Ubud, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

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Barong and Keris Dance, Ubud, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 13 Barong and Keris Dance (Part 1), Batubulan Village, Ubud

2012-03-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

Today our Adventures Abroad itinerary stated:

Today we have a full day exploring the Ubud area. In the morning we attend a Barong traditional dance performance. The Barong play represent an eternal fighting between good and evil spirit. A Barong (a mythological animal) represent good spirit and Rangda (a mythological monster) represent the evil one. Bali is known for its fine arts, and it is in this village that most of the best batik painters, mask carvers, dancers, weavers, and musicians live. This is an excellent place to buy authentic Balinese handicrafts.

Overnight in Ubud. Meal plan: Breakfast and dinner.

Me;) with two of the greeters for the Barong Dance.

Below I have included several descriptions of the dance. The ones in italics have been borrowed from other sites and I have added the links back to them.

Barong Dancers getting ready for the performance.

The Barong dance is performed everyday at 930am. It is the story of Good vs. Evil. The dance is about an hour long and is extremely intricate.

This woman was making each of the flower "kebabs".

This woman has a pile of hibiscus and frangipani flowers. She tears them up into specific pieces and then adds them to the kebab stick making a flower.

Barong Dancers getting ready, Ubud

It was 9am in the morning and these ladies were already quite a bit into the art of getting ready for the performance.

Barong Dancing fixing her hair, Ubud

The monkey man having a smoke while waiting. Ubud

Amazing detail of the flowers that the woman was making.

As you can see from above. The two types of flowers are red hibiscus and white and yellow frangipani.

First the white and yellow frangipani flower was torn up so that there were only yellow pieces of petal. These were overlapped into a circle shape and then pierced onto the sharp long toothpick like stick. The stick already had a red dot of hibiscus on it.

Making Barong headdress flowers, Ubud

Second, a hibiscus is torn into individual pieces of red petal. These are also overlapped into a larger circle shape and stabbed onto the stick.

Making Barong headdress flowers, Ubud

Third, a white and yellow frangipani flower is pierced as well to round out the flower. As fast as I was taking pictures this woman was making the flowers. The woman would then pick them up and insert them into their hair.

Barong Dancers adjusting their flower headdresses. Ubud

As you can see from above. The dancers here were just using the white and yellow frangipani flowers on sticks and then arranging them in their hair. The grace and precision is just something I could have watched all day. I wonder what the wait of this is?

Muscians waiting to get ready, Barong Dance, Ubud

The muscians area getting ready to play, Barong Dance, Ubud

The Barong made his entrance, Ubud

The Barong, Ubud

The barong creature is manipulated by two men. The front man controlls the feet and the head. The second man literally brings up the rear ;)

The monkey man, Barong Dance, Ubud

This is the story behind the Barong Dance:

The final fight between the Barong (good) and Rangda (evil) is preceded by a play called Calonarang. Calonarang was a legendary queen who was accused of practising black magic. According to some versions of the story, she killed her husband by pointing with the left hand at him, in others, he just plain deserted her. Anyhow, she becomes known as the Widow (Rangda) and turns into a terrible Leyal (witch-monster) that is finally killed by a saint who assumes the form of the Barong.

Every performance starts with a short prologue that features a scene with monkeys in a forest and has no connection to the rest of the story other than to show the good character of the Barong. After the prologue, two young girls perform a Legong, a very abstract and difficult dance.

Barong Dance, Ubud

Isn't the flower headdress beyond amazing? Look at the detail of the rows closer to the hairline. These were frangipani in yellow and white with the white petal parts ripped off to make little yellow circles.

Barong Dance, Ubud

The dresses or costumes are incredibily intricate and colorful. With all the rich textures and vibrancy they are utterly beautiful.

Barong Dance, Ubud

The headdress from the back. You can see all the toothpicks.

Erlangga, Barong Dance, Ubud

Barong Dance

The Barong dance is named after the Barong character in Balinese mythology. He is the king of the spirits and a protector of good. Often symbolized by a lion, the Barong is a sacred symbol to the Balinese. Before a performance, a priest must make offerings before the masks are brought out. In short, the Barong dance symbolizes how good overcomes evil, and balance is restored.

No other dance symbolizes the Balinese view of history better than the Barong. It combines both mythology and history to tell the epic tale of Erlangga, the King of Bali in the 10th Century, fighting his mother Rangda who has been accused of practicing black magic. Once Rangda becomes a widow she summons all the evil spirits to attack Erlangga and his troops. Erlangga is overpowered and calls for the assistance of Barong.

A second battle ensues, and Rangda casts a spell that causes all of Erlangga’s troops to try and kill themselves by stabbing their keris’ (short sword) into their stomachs. Barong countered her spell by making the soldiers’ bodies too strong for the keris to pierce the skin. Erlangga wins the battle with the help of the Barong and Rangda flees.

When Rangda casts a spell to send Erlangga’s troupes into a suicidal trance, the performance is aggressive, and real. The dancers often claim they enter trances with suicidal notions, and there have been instances of serious injury. It is not uncommon to see priests helping certain dancers come out of their trance with prayer and coconut water. With priests conducting offerings, music provided by Balinese gamelan, history blending with mythology, and dancers entering into trances, the Barong has it all.

Erlannga and his mother Rangda, Barong Dance, Ubud

Barong Dance, Ubud

The masks of Barong and Rangda are considered sacred items, and before they are brought out, a priest must be present to offer blessings by sprinkling them with holy water taken from Mount Agung, and offerrings must be presented.

Barong Dance, Ubud

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

contact Adventures Abroad at 1 800 665 3998

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Barong Dance, Ubud

Indonesia -- Day 13 Industry in Ubud, Bali

2012-03-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

Grain used for thatching?

I love this. The Aussie Garden Warehouse in Bali.
The stone carvings are so wonderful. I wanted to bring home a container full.

These carved wooden entrances are beautifully intricate.

More stone statues and fountains. Notice the red hibiscus flowers on the buddha statues.

I wasn't able to tell if the water jug was full or not. I'm guessing it would be very hard to carry either way.

More stone carvings, these looked more traditional.

Ubud Stone Carvings

Carved wooden tables and chairs, Ubud, Bali

Stone carvings, Ubud, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

contact Adventures Abroad at 1 800 665 3998

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Stone carvings, Ubud, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Arma Resort, Ubud, Bali PART II

2012-03-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

This hotel and museum complex is just gorgeous.
You could spend the entire day just roaming the grounds and the attached museum.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

ARMA resort officially established in 1982 with 15 rooms under the name “Puri Indah” which mean Beautiful Palace. In 1995 Puri Indah change into “Kokokan Hotel”. In 2002 change into “ARMA Resort” with additional 8 luxury villas. The total accomodation become 23 units.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This is a private villa near the Thai Restaurant. Isn't this absolutely beautiful?

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

More carved wooden doors

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

More statues ... The detail work and the nature is so gorgeous.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

Another private villa and its serenity pool.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This turtle was in the Koi and Lily Pond. Just swimming about.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This vine wrapped along the posts for the bridge and created a canopy of beautiful blue flowers.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

Two balinese carved chairs on a deck with a bowl of frangipani flowers.
Notice the beautifully carved doors in the background.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

A mother and child statue. The grounds are dotted with these amazing pieces of craftsmanship.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This is a statue spilling into the lily pond.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

These are more private villas overlooking the river. This photo was taken at approx. 6am

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

Mommy Frog with babies on her back spilling into the offshoot stream.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

Another fantastic piece of carved wood. This is an balinese day bed with canopy.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This is a very large spider. It was between two palm trees at about eye level.
Thankfully it was at the side of the lily pond and not across a path.

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or stay at the ARMA Bali Resort

contact Adventures Abroad at 1 800 665 3998

Quote Code AANK for a special discount

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Arma Resort and Museum, Ubud, Bali PART I

2012-03-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

Today the Adventures Abroad itinerary:

Today we depart Lovina and travel past spectacular rice terraces to the artists' village of Ubud.

Along the way we visit the spectacular rice terraces at Pupuan. We proceed from there to Tanah Lot, an ocean temple built atop a huge rock surrounded by the sea at high tide by one of the last priests to come to Bali from Java in the 16th century. Its rituals include the paying of homage to the guardian spirits of the sea. Sea snakes found at the base are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders.

We continue to Ubud, a remarkable town located in the middle of the island. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs.

Overnight in Ubud. Meal plan: Breakfast and dinner.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This is the door to my suite. You have to cross over a little bridge and then you get to it. It is the width (or even a little smaller) of a regular door but split down the middle. Notice the amazing paintwork and patina.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

TA DA !!! Isn't this freaking amazing !!! The brown door on the right hand side (back) was the entrance to this amazing balcony. A table and two chairs set with fresh fruit and a bowl full of frangipani awaited me.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This was the door to my suite. Again notice the amazing distressed paint work and detail. Another regular door split down the middle. Notice the lock again for the room.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This is the full view of my balcony with the long window seat. I was able to sit out here and drink beer at night, getting the free wi-fi from the pool area below and watch the lizards crawl along the ceiling. So beautiful !!

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

A close up of my door ... again the distressing was gorgeous with the free hand detailed paint work. I will so have to try this for a house...

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

The chandelier on my balcony which was obviously throwing off enough light for my friend to come and stay awhile. Look closely for him ...

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This was the view from my balcony down to the pool and cool spa. The Thatched roof in the left corner back was a lounge area where coffee and biscuits were served free everyday ..

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

A garden statue ... again the patina here is amazing.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

Offerings to the shrine of Ganesh. These were flowers were placed daily.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This streamed flowed through the property. Isn't this gorgeous? Imagine if that was your room and balcony overlooking this. Sitting out in the morning having your coffee?? ahhh pure bliss

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

If you went straight through the arch you came to the reception bungalow and the restaurant, and the exit out to the main street and into Ubud.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

More Guardian statues ..

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

To the left of the stream was this little offshoot that brought water to the Lily and koi pond and to the rice terrace in the background.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

This is the "covered" bridge that brought you to some private cabins and a theatre/breakfast area.

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

On crossing over the bridge this was the view to your left .. MAGNIFICENT !! So utterly beautiful!!

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud and or the ARMA Resort

contact Adventures Abroad at 1 800 665 3998

Quote Code AANK for a special discount

Arma Resort Hotel, Ubud, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Industry and jobs of the Ubud, Bali area

2012-03-20T15:00:00.000-07:00

Supak water irrigation
Bali

Supak water irrigation

Bali

Today the Adventures Abroad itinerary was:

Today we depart Lovina and travel past spectacular rice terraces to the artists' village of Ubud.

Along the way we visit the spectacular rice terraces at Pupuan. We proceed from there to Tanah Lot, an ocean temple built atop a huge rock surrounded by the sea at high tide by one of the last priests to come to Bali from Java in the 16th century. Its rituals include the paying of homage to the guardian spirits of the sea. Sea snakes found at the base are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders.

We continue to Ubud, a remarkable town located in the middle of the island. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs.

Overnight in Ubud. Meal plan: Breakfast and dinner.

Local woman collecting rice
Bali

From the pictures here you can see a woman with a bushel of rice plants. She will beat these against the rack in front of her. This releases all the rice grains. See the pile of brown "sawdust" in front of the rack.

brown collecting rice.
Bali

The rice is then dried out on the tarps in the sun.

woman selling her ware,
Bali

From this photos you can see quite the differences that are in Bali. The Cash and Kredit sign, the new car, the yellow and white material over the shrine and the women selling her wares on the corner.

handmade chairs, Bali

Aren't these fantastic? Look at the detail of the loveseat that the man is sitting on.

local store, Bali

Lava stone works, Bali

Gas Station, Bali

Mobile Store-on-the-go, Bali

Flowers, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud

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Flowers, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Tanah Lot, Bali

2012-03-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

Entrance to Tanah Lot, Bali

Today the Adventures Abroad itinerary was:

Today we depart Lovina and travel past spectacular rice terraces to the artists' village of Ubud.

Along the way we visit the spectacular rice terraces at Pupuan. We proceed from there to Tanah Lot, an ocean temple built atop a huge rock surrounded by the sea at high tide by one of the last priests to come to Bali from Java in the 16th century. Its rituals include the paying of homage to the guardian spirits of the sea. Sea snakes found at the base are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders.

We continue to Ubud, a remarkable town located in the middle of the island. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs.

Overnight in Ubud. Meal plan: Breakfast and dinner.

Ocean at Tanah Lot, Bali

Isn't this beautiful? The water is so clear and the waves are just so soothing.

Ocean at Tanah Lot, Bali

From Wikipedia:

Tanah Lot is a rock formation off the Indonesian island of Bali. It is home of a pilgrimage temple, the Pura Tanah Lot (literally "Tanah Lot temple") and a popular tourist and cultural icon for photography and general exoticism.

Tanah Lot means "Land [sic: in the] Sea" in Balinese language Located in Tabanan, about 20 km from Denpasar, the temple sits on a large offshore rock which has been shaped continuously over the years by the ocean tide.

Tanah Lot is claimed to be the work of the 15th century priest Nirartha. During his travels along the south coast he saw the rock-island's beautiful setting and rested there. Some fishermen saw him, and bought him gifts. Nirartha then spent the night on the little island. Later he spoke to the fishermen and told them to build a shrine on the rock for he felt it to be a holy place to worship the Balinese sea gods.

The Tanah Lot temple was built and has been a part of Balinese mythology for centuries. The temple is one of seven sea temples around the Balinese coast. Each of the sea temples were established within eyesight of the next to form a chain along the south-western coast. However, the temple had significant Hindu influence.

At the base of the rocky island, poisonous sea snakes are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders. A giant snake purportedly protects the temple, which was created from Nirata’s scarf when he established the island.

Ocean at Tanah Lot, Bali

In 1980 the temple’s rock face was starting to crumble and the area around and inside the temple started to become dangerous. The Japanese government then provided a loan to the Indonesia government of Rp 800 billion (approximately USD $130 million) to conserve the historic temple and other significant locations around Bali. As a result, over one third of Tanah Lot's "rock" is actually cleverly disguised artificial rock created during the Japanese-funded and supervised renovation and stabilization program.

The area leading to Tanah Lot is highly commercialized and people are required to pay to enter the area. To reach the temple, visitors must walk through a carefully planned set of Balinese market-format souvenir shops which cover each side of the path down to the sea. On the mainland cliff tops, restaurants have also been provided for tourists.

Tanah Lot, Bali

Prices to get into Tanah Lot:

According to Tabanan government regulation No. 29/2011 about Recreation and Sports Retribution, we are inform to all visitor, travel agent, hotel, and any other tourism actors, about the increasing of Ticket Price in Tanah Lot. This desicion was made for the improvement infrastructure and services to tourists. And the increasing of ticket price in Tanah Lot will start from April 1^st, 2012.

Current Ticket Price :

Children Domestic : Rp. 5.000

Adult Domestic : Rp. 7.500

Foreigner : Rp. 10.000

After Increasing :

Children Domestic : Rp. 7.500

Adult Domestic : Rp. 10.000

Children Foreign : Rp. 15.000

Me at Tanah Lot, Bali

Tanah Lot, Bali

Seriously, this was beyond beautiful !! I could've spent the entire day here just wandering around in and out of the water. The tide was coming in when I was there and it comes in quite fast. So beautiful !!

Tanah Lot, Bali

Me at Tanah Lot, Bali

Tanah Lot, Bali

Tanah Lot, Bali
Look closely there is a fishy there

Tanah Lot, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Tanah Lot

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Ocean Spray at Tanah Lot, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Sowing a Paddy Field, Bali

2012-03-18T15:00:00.000-07:00

Local Balinese men sowing a new rice terrace, Bali

Today's Adventures Abroad itinerary stated:

Today we depart Lovina and travel past spectacular rice terraces to the artists' village of Ubud.

Along the way we visit the spectacular rice terraces at Pupuan. We proceed from there to Tanah Lot, an ocean temple built atop a huge rock surrounded by the sea at high tide by one of the last priests to come to Bali from Java in the 16th century. Its rituals include the paying of homage to the guardian spirits of the sea. Sea snakes found at the base are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders.

We continue to Ubud, a remarkable town located in the middle of the island. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs.

Overnight in Ubud. Meal plan: Breakfast and dinner.

a new rice terrace, Bali

Wikipedia:

A paddy field is a flooded parcel of arable land used for growing rice and other semiaquatic crops. Paddy fields are a typical feature of rice farming in east, south and southeast Asia. Paddies can be built into steep hillsides as terraces and adjacent to depressed or steeply sloped features such as rivers or marshes. They can require a great deal of labor and materials to create, and need large quantities of water for irrigation. Flooded paddies provide an ideal environment for rice cultivation and discourage the growth of many weeds. The water buffalo is one of the most important working animals adapted for life in wetlands, and is used extensively in paddy field farming.

During the twentieth century, paddy field farming became the dominant form of growing rice. Paddy field farming is practiced in Cambodia, Bangladesh, China, Taiwan, India, Indonesia, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos, as well as Piedmont in Italy, the Camargue in France, the Artibonite Valley in Haiti, and Sacramento Valley in California. Paddy fields are a major source of atmospheric methane and have been estimated to contribute in the range of 50 to 100 million tonnes of the gas per annum. Recent studies have shown that this can be significantly reduced while also boosting crop yield by draining the paddies to allow the soil to aerate to interrupt methane production.

The word "paddy" is derived from the Malay word padi, rice plant

Local Balinese men sowing a new rice terrace, Bali

This is the difference between Brown and White rice:

Brown rice and white rice have similar number of calories and carbohydrates. The main differences between the two forms of rice lie in processing and nutritional content.

When only the outermost layer of a grain of rice (the husk) is removed, brown rice is produced. To produce white rice, the next layers underneath the husk (the bran layer and the germ) are removed, leaving mostly the starchy endosperm.

Several vitamins and dietary minerals are lost in this removal and the subsequent polishing process. A part of these missing nutrients, such as vitamin B₁, vitamin B₃, and iron are sometimes added back into the white rice making it "enriched", as food suppliers in the US are required to do by the Food and Drug Administration.

One mineral not added back into white rice is magnesium; one cup (195 g) of cooked long grain brown rice contains 84 mg of magnesium while one cup of white rice contains 19 mg.

When the bran layer is removed to make white rice, the oil in the bran is also removed. Rice bran oil may help lower LDL cholesterol.

Among other key sources of nutrition lost are small amounts of fatty acids and fiber

sowing a new rice terrace, Bali

Indonesia

Prime Javanese paddy yields roughly 6 metric tons of unmilled rice (2.5 metric tons of milled rice) per hectare. When irrigation is available, rice farmers typically plant Green Revolution rice varieties allowing three growing seasons per year. Since fertilizer and pesticide are relatively expensive inputs, farmers typically plant seeds in a very small plot. Three weeks following germination, the 6-8 inch stalks are picked and replanted at greater separation, in a backbreaking manual procedure.

Rice harvesting in Central Java is often performed not by owners or sharecroppers of paddy, but rather by itinerant middlemen, whose small firms specialize in harvesting, transport, milling, and distribution to markets.

The fertile volcanic soil of much of the Indonesian archipelago—and particularly the islands of Java and Bali-- has made rice a central dietary staple. Steep terrain on Bali resulted in an intricate cooperation systems, locally called subak, to manage water storage and drainage for rice terraces.

sowing a new rice terrace, Bali

Isn't this absolutely gorgeous? The work itself is completely backbreaking but it is gorgeous. In the right hand side at the back you notice an area of green. These are the seedlings that will be replanted into the terraces.

a new rice terrace, Bali

This site has a very interesting article on How a Paddy Field Works

Local Balinese man sowing a new field, Bali

Local transportation for chicken, Bali

Everyday life, Bali

a laundry service, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Ubud or see the rice terraces

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A flat rice field, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Brahma Vihara-Arama - Banjar - Bali

2012-03-17T15:00:00.001-07:00

We continued down the road heading towards the Brahma Vihara-Arama-Banjar Buddhist temple.

Rice Terraces in the jungle of Bali

Rice paddy flooded with water, Bali

Rice Terraces. Bali

Isn't this gorgeous? The reflections of the sky on the rice paddies flooded with water.

Rice Terraces. Bali

So beautiful :) and serene.

Rice Terraces. Bali

Flower at Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali

This Buddhist Temple is the only one on Bali. You should really visit there site, its quite interesting:

http://brahmaviharaarama.com/

Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali

The temple was built in 1970 and is the only Buddhist monastery on Bali.

Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali

Unfortunately I was unable to tour the entire complex, as I am a menstrating woman and was told that I was not allowed in on this certain day.

Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali

You should wear long pants and/or a sarong. All visitors should be respectfully dressed. Upon entering the monastery, proper procedure is to sign the guestbook and give a donation.

Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Brahma Vihara Arama

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Flower at Brahma Vihara Arama, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Bats on Bali

2012-03-16T15:00:00.000-07:00

As we went through the rice terraces of the Pupuan area we needed to stop and find a bathroom break stop.

Fruit Bat, Bali

This is the first thing that we saw when we pulled into the driveway of a local cafe overlooking the rice terraces.

Fruit Bat, Bali

Yes Ladies and Gentlemen, that is a bat penis. I know, I wasn't expecting it to look so anatomically close to a man's parts either.

Fruit Bat, Bali

But apparently all men are alike, and as you can see, this fruit bat couldn't keep away from his penis.

Fruit Bat, Bali

Yup, I think he is pretty clean. I spent a good 5 minutes looking at this ol'boy give himself a through licking.

Fruit Bat, Bali

I think this was his girlfriend, but I can't be sure. Does she look impressed to you?

Fruit Bat, Bali

Maybe not? Another boy trying to make an afternoon threesome. His wingspan was quite impressive. You can see all the veins going through their wings.

Foilage, Bali

Fruit Bat Warning, Bali

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Plant on a tree, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Everyday Life in Western Bali and Pupuan

2012-03-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

After leaving the Buddhist monastery we continued on our way toward Tanah Lot and Ubud.

Women carrying their wares down the street.

Woman leaving a canang at a local shrine.

Watermelon and jackfruit stand, Bali

Fruit stand in Western Bali

Food stand in Western Bali

Shopping in Western Bali

Look at the load that this bicycle is carrying!!

Local woman carrying wood
Western Bali

Laundry
Western Bali

Laundry

Western Bali

Laundry

Western Bali

Rice Fields

Western Bali

Rice Fields

Western Bali

Rice Fields

Western Bali

Local township playing volleyball

Western Bali

Delivery of home shrines

rice plants

again, the loads that people carry on their bicycles...

honeymoon shack? vs naptime out of the sun

statue featuring a scene from the Ramayana

Lady walking through the rice terraces, Bali

Isn't this beautiful?

Local village life
Western Bali

Rice Terraces (ready for harvesting)
Western Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Pupuan area

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Me ;) at the rice terraces

Indonesia -- Day 12 Lake Beratan Market and Monkeys !!

2012-03-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

Today the Adventures Abroad itinerary was:

Today we depart Lovina and travel past spectacular rice terraces to the artists' village of Ubud.

Along the way we visit the spectacular rice terraces at Pupuan. We proceed from there to Tanah Lot, an ocean temple built atop a huge rock surrounded by the sea at high tide by one of the last priests to come to Bali from Java in the 16th century. Its rituals include the paying of homage to the guardian spirits of the sea. Sea snakes found at the base are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders.

We continue to Ubud, a remarkable town located in the middle of the island. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs.

Overnight in Ubud. Meal plan: Breakfast and dinner.

Flowers at Lake Beratan Market

Lake Beratan Market, Bali, Indonesia

Sarongs for sale
Lake Beratan Market, Bali, Indonesia

Rice Terraces

I can't find the name of this hotel. If you know, please leave a comment.

Hotel looking over the rice terraces

Head Monkey !!

Monkeys !!

Monkeys

Monkey

Head Monkey again !!

Monkeys

Lake Buyan and Tamblingan, Mundak, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Lake Buyan and Tamblingan, Mundak, Bali

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Lake Buyan or Tamblingan, Mundak, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

2012-03-12T22:37:00.001-07:00

Today's Adventures Abroad itinerary said that we would be visiting Ulun Danu Temple, Bali.

Unfortunately the weather wasn't as great as it could have been. A little dark and hazy when we arrived but it did brighten up later on.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

From BaliStarIsland:

Ulun Danu Temple is a Balinese Hindu Temple located at Candi Kuning countryside, Baturiti sub district and Tabanan regency. The distance from Denpasar town is about 50 km north side the way from Denpasar to Singaraja. It is set at lakeside of Beratan with beautiful lake view and hills surround it. It is situated in the plateau area with cool atmosphere surround it and hills as a backdrop. We can find at north side of this temple is Pucak Sangkur mount, in the eastside there is Beratan Mount which also referred as Pucak Mangu or Pucak Pangelengan, in the south side there is Terate Bang Mount and in the Westside there is Tapak Mount and Watukaru Mount.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

The Story and Philosophy

The name of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is taken from the lake where the temple is built at Beratan Lake. The name of Beratan Lake is inseparable with the Beratan Mount as Deity and Goddess as fertility source, prosperity to keep the prosperity in life and society life. In papyrus chronicle of the Mengwi, this temple is referred as the name of Parhyangan ri pinggiring danu Beratan (sanctum located in lakeside of Beratan Lake). Ulun is come from Hulu word meaning head or power and in this case is intended by Ulun Danu Beratan means power of Beratan Lake that is Danu Goddess.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is consisted of 4 temples complex that are:

Lingga Petak Temple owns the function to worship the Siwa God

Penataran Pucak Mangu Temple is referred this gate as Parhyangan ri pinggiring rawa Beratan or Danu Beratan Temple is founded by I Gusti Agung Putu to worship the Hyang ing Parwata or Deity which is placed in Pucak Mangu that is Bhatara Hyang Danawa as according to papyrus of Padma Bhuwana and Usana Bali, because Mangu Mount is located in north direction, hence it is called the Bhatara Hyang Danawa or Wisnu God

Terate Bang Temple is functioning to worship of Brahma God

Dalem Purwa Temple is functioning to worship of Danu Goddess which is considered to be miraculous of the Bhatara Hyang Danawa or Laksmi Goddess.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

Temple Ceremony

The temple ceremony execution at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is consisted of two types those are:

The temple ceremony which is executed every six-month (210 days) that on Anggara (Tuesday) Kliwon Julungwangi (Base on Balinese Hindu calendar). Every 12 months (420 days) is executed by the bigger ceremony from the ordinary ceremony, so-called Piodalan Agung

Pakelem ceremony is executed at any times as according to situation and condition. The Pakelem ceremony owns the function to worship the supremacy and also cheapness of the infinite for award of life, fertility, prosperity, as impact of the existence of ecosystem balance so that give the benefit for life and universe life forever and ever, during Beratan Lake and Beratan Mount stand up

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

I don't know which ceremony that we saw here ... but it was amazing. All these people just kept coming and coming and coming. Dressed in local traditional clothing, women carrying packages on their head and the men carrying the Barong.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

Look at all the people here and then in the right hand side winding around the grounds.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

I had to take a picture of this woman's shoes. They were great.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

This guy has a shirt that said: "Young Dumb, and Full of Come" Really at a very important religious site?

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

From Wikipedia:

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, or Pura Bratan, is a major Shivaite & water temple on Bali, Indonesia — the other major water temple being Pura Ulun Danu Batur. The temple complex is located on the shores of Lake Bratan in the mountains near Bedugul. Water temples serve the entire region in the outflow area; downstream there are many smaller water temples that are specific to each irrigation association (subak).

Built in 1663, this temple is used for offerings ceremony to the Balinese water, lake and river goddess Dewi Danu, due to the importance of Lake Bratan as a main source of irrigation in central Bali. The 11 stories of pelinggih meru dedicated for Shiva and his consort Parvathi. Buddha statue also present inside this temple.

Pura Ulun featured on Indonesian banknote

Lake Bratan is known as the Lake of Holy Mountain due to the fertility of this area. Located 1200 m above sea level, it has a cold tropical climate.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Lake Bratan or Ulun Danu Temple

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Buddhist Shrine at Ulun Danu Temple, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Beratan Lake Area, Bali

2012-03-09T22:29:00.000-08:00

Our Adventures Abroad itinerary for today stated:

This morning we have an early boat trip to the reef where we hope to see the dolphins that frequent the area. Even if the dolphins don't show, the sunrise can be quite spectacular.

After breakfast back at the hotel, we head for the Gitgit Falls where a 15-minute walk takes us to a 60 m / 197 ft waterfall. We will also check out the spices and fruits at Lake Bratan market, making our way back toward Lovina with a visit at the Buddhist Monastery, Brahma Arama Vihara. It is a spectacular looking place, and a bit out of place in Hindu Bali. It is the most important Buddhist monastery in Bali and is complete with golden Buddha statues and a pristine natural setting. Strictly speaking the monastery is not a tourist site but accepts respectful visitors.

We return to Lovina late in the afternoon.

Overnight in Lovina. Meal plan: Breakfast and dinner.

Roadside Fruit Stands
Beratan Lake Area, Bali

I find this a weird commercial/retail concept that 6 stalls of the same thing (oranges?) are all together at one area of the road. Of course, they were selling fruit for the next stop...

Monkeys !!
Beratan Lake Area, Bali

The next stop down the road were these "wild monkeys". Man they are pretty brazen !! They would come right up to you and take the fruit out of your hand..

Beratan Lake Area, Bali

A little fuzzy -- but this is the "Grandpa" of the clan.

Hibiscus
Beratan Lake Area, Bali

Amazing Hibiscus flower .. this is such a gorgeous flower. The depth and shape is amazing.

I love this !! NO MONKEYS !!
Beratan Lake Area, Bali

Arriving at the Ulun Danu temple. Quite a unique sign for a North American to see ...

Wild orchid??
Beratan Lake Area, Bali

Again, more gorgeous flowers !! I believe this is a lady slipper orchid but I really am not sure.

Banyan Tree
Beratan Lake Area, Bali

I believe this is a banyan tree. It's root system is unbelievable. The black and white checker cloth is put on all things/guards to ward off evil.

Beratan Lake Area, Bali

The entrance to the Ulun Danu Temple at the Beratan Lake. Please note the restrictions on entering below:

Beratan Lake Area, Bali

From Balistarisland

The existence of Ulun Danu Temple reminds that The Balinese Hindu live tolerantly with other people outside of Hindu like Buddha. It is signified by the existence of Buddhist Temple located outside of temple area. This temple building look very beautiful with Buddha Monk Statues put surround the temple. These Buddhist Temples are strategically situated in the lush tropical garden with cool atmosphere surround it.

Beratan Lake Area, Bali

Such a beautiful sight. A mother and her young son in traditional dress.

Beratan Lake Area, Bali

This is the carved and painted door in the temple wall. Isn't this gorgeous??

Beratan Lake Area, Bali

If you would like to visit Bali or Lovina or the Aneka Lovina Hotel,

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Ulun Danu Temple
Beratan Lake Area, Bali

Indonesia -- Day 12 Gitgit Waterfalls, Bali

2012-03-07T23:38:00.002-08:00

GitGit Waterfall
Bali, Indonesia

Today the Adventures Abroad itinerary was:

This morning we have an early boat trip to the reef where we hope to see the dolphins that frequent the area. Even if the dolphins don't show, the sunrise can be quite spectacular.

After breakfast back at the hotel, we head for the Gitgit Falls where a 15-minute walk takes us to a 60 m / 197 ft waterfall. We will also check out the spices and fruits at Lake Bratan market, making our way back toward Lovina with a visit at the Buddhist Monastery, Brahma Arama Vihara. It is a spectacular looking place, and a bit out of place in Hindu Bali. It is the most important Buddhist monastery in Bali and is complete with golden Buddha statues and a pristine natural setting. Strictly speaking the monastery is not a tourist site but accepts respectful visitors.

We return to Lovina late in the afternoon.

Overnight in Lovina. Meal plan: Breakfast and dinner.

a local Balinese woman and her son
She owned this "convenience" store

Balinese Woman at GitGit Waterfalls
Bali, Indonesia

Another amazing sight. I know many cultures have this type of movement of goods, but it is just so amazing.

Rice fields on the way to GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

Rice fields on the way to GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

You walk along this path, shouldered by stores all the way to the waterfalls.

GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

Store at GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

This store was selling spices. Apparently the biggest item here was supposed to be saffron. I didn't think that saffron was found in Bali. I did hear a rumor that it could also be "dyed sawdust". Does anyone know?

GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

more stores at GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

ME !!

GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

Seriously, aren't they gorgeous? I know they aren't the highest, widest, most amazing waterfalls you've ever seen. But the whole walk to them was gorgeous and the area is quite beautiful.

GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

The waterfalls empty into this "river".

ME again ;)

GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

If you would like to visit Bali or GitGit Waterfalls

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I find this photo below just gorgeous. It really explains the serenity of the area.

GitGit Waterfalls

Bali, Indonesia

Indonesia -- Day 12 Singaraja, Bali

2012-03-07T23:25:00.001-08:00

After seeing the dolphins and eating breakfast, we continued on to see Singaraja.

An alter
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

This is a local alter. Almost all businesses and homes have a personal alter/mini-temple like this. As you can see it has the canang offerings on top.

Local store
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

This is a local store with some Balinese people chatting away.

Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Canang makers
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

The canang offerings are weaved mini-baskets filled with fresh flowers and other items.

Canang Sari is one of Daily Balinese hindus people offerings made to thank the gods in praise and pray. You will see these offerings in the temples, on small shrines in houses, and on the ground or as a part of a large offering

Vegetable market
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Market
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

a pile of canang's
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

The phrase canang sari is derived from the words “sari” (essence) and “canang” (a small square of coconut-leaf basket decorated with a combination of colorful flowers). A Canang Sari is completed by placing on top of the canang an amount of money (”kepeng”), which is said to make up the essence (the “sari”) of the offering. Canang Sari is made from young yellow palm leafs, Flowers, and foodstuff an art form assosiated with every ritual in bali. Balinese believe in the forces of the invisible worlds dictates that offerings be created with a spirit of thankfulness and loving attention to detail.

Balinese always offering Canang sari every day, except there are some one death around village. Canang sari offered to say thankfullness to the GOD ( Sang Hyang Widi Wasa ), for what was we get in our life. Canang sari is simplest daily household offering. Canang sari usualy offer in Tempel, Family Temple, Cross Road, House, Sacred Statue, shop or other place that balinese belife sacred. thats all to make the world balance. ( Tri Hita Karana : Parahyangan - Pawongan - Palemahan ), that means God - Human - nature.

The philosophy behind the offering is self sacrifice in that they take time and effort to prepare.

Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

We happened upon some kind of celebration with all these people celebrating in front of the statue in the round-a-bout.

Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

On the curb, these musicians were playing.

Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

This woman was offering up a canang offering.

Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

canang offering
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Isn't the canang offering absolutely beautiful?

a local man making canang offerings

Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

canang offering

Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Snakefruit

Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

If you would like to visit Bali or Lovina or the Aneka Lovina Hotel,

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local Balinese family