Monday, August 31, 2009

Bali Vacation : Beautiful Ubud

Bali Vacation : Beautiful Ubud


What is it about Ubud that one should visit this beautiful village? Because Ubud has much to offer; from its stunning panorama of Ayung River valley and the terraces rice filed, its most talented artist, its typical traditional market and myriad of shops that line the road is a heaven for shopping, its undying culture, its serene environs and plentiful of nice small hotels and restaurants and

Beautiful Ubud For Your Bali Vacation

What is it about Ubud that one should visit this beautiful village? Because Ubud has much to offer; from its stunning panorama of Ayung River valley and the terraces rice filed, its most talented artist, its typical traditional market and myriad of shops that line the road is a heaven for shopping, its undying culture, its serene environs and plentiful of nice small hotels and restaurants and

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Bali Conrad Hotel, Nusa Dua


 Conrad Hotel Bali, Nusa Dua

Hotel Conrad Bali is one of the 5 stars luxury hotel adding on to the well-filled strip of Nusa Dua hotels in Bali. It was officialy opened in April 2005. In a very short period, Conrad Hotel Bali has established itself as one of the top hotels in Nusa Dua, Bali. My recent stay allowed me to experience and see what made Conrad a hit with Bali's tourist, especially in Nusa Dua.

What made me fell in love at first sight with Conrad Hotel Bali?

It is because of its own private beach where the quiet waves are not able to interrupt the calm haven that Conrad is providing. Comfortable gazebos set in a well kept landscaped garden invite you to lie down and relax. It made me dream away while gazing in the distance, with the stunning beach and waves at sight.

To add on to the beautiful beach, Hotel Conrad's swimming pool called the Condor is seriously such an elusive beautiful swimming pool. For a real Venetian feeling you can even book a room right at one of the lagoons, with immediate pool access. The real eye candy is the view that each of the rooms offer from the balcony. It made my eyes cast over the humongous swimming pools and lagoons that are spread out in the well maintained back garden and flow into the Indian Ocean.

The extensive marble-based lobby of Conrad hotel resembles a ballroom and if it wasn't for the backdrop of the turquoise shimmering Indian Ocean that is visible from the far end of the lounge one might mistake oneself to be Cinderella instead of a visitor of Bali. No worries though, Conrad Hotel ensures that there'll be no misbehaved stepsisters here that will make you polish the floor luckily :) Instead, guests are greeted warmly by their jovial and friendly staffs, dressed in yoga resembling outfits, that fittingly convey the atmosphere that one will find here: Inner peace in a balanced, elegant fashionista environment. 

Facilites and Activities

For those who dare to venture out of the cosiness and luxury of their room the hotel has an extensive list of other activities to entertain. For those who fancy a bit of exercise next to all the luxury there's a well equipped fitness centre, and a tennis court. To relax the muscles after that strenuous exercise a visit to the award winning spa is a must. The serene peacefulness will bring your Yin and Yang together like never before. On offer are different kinds of massages, facials, reflexology, steambaths and scrubs, with home made oils and scrubs that is very soothing.

Also those up for serious business are not forgotten. The Conrad has its own business centre with several board rooms, ballrooms for large meetings or parties, a library,and multi lingual guest relations.

The most interesting features are perhaps quite closely related. One being the wedding chapel erected a month ago. If you are planning on saying ‘yes I do', by all means utter those words in the modern minimalistic yet utterly romantic wedding chapel with oceanview. In extension of that the Conrad also has its own children daycare centre, that will pamper your little ones while you're being pampered in for example the spa in the meantime.

A wide range of daytime activities is provided as well ranging from cooking classes to Bahasa Indonesia courses, beach volleyball, to water polo. There is something to do for everyone at any time and if the relaxing atmosphere didn't force you to slow down and enjoy the view, you would find yourself running from board meeting to yoga class. Serenity now…The Conrad has it all and delivers it in style.

Hotel Conrad Bali will also be very convenient for you. It is near to Bali's Ngurah Rai International airport and only a 10 minutes drive to the hustle and bustle of Bali's capital, Denpasar. Conrad offers 298 guestrooms and 15 suites, all stylishly built. If you didn't know, Conrad is the luxurious subsidiary of Hilton and I have to admit that it shows. All the comfortable rooms are designed up to the highest standards, provide baths and shower, balconies with panoramic views of the ocean. They are fully equipped with air-conditioning, flatscreen tv, dvd player, internatial IDD phone, free wireless internet access, coffee and tea making facilities, safe, hairdryer, private bar and if that's not enough there even is a ‘pillow menu' for the restless guest.

All in all, I'll say that the Conrad makes its 5 stars shine with pride. The luxury provided and at the same time down to earth and homely feel make this hotel an excellent choice for everyone; Honeymooners, families, older tourists and even handicapped travellers. 

I've made my research accross all the online travel agents and found out that the cheapest rate for Hotel Conrad Bali is at USD $185 from HotelsCombined.com. You can also compare the rates here, Conrad Hotel Bali. If this hotel is out of your budget, you may consider Legian Village Hotel which starts from USD $27.


Bali Exotic Eco Tourism


Bali Exotic Eco Tourism

The rich culture of Bali being maintained from one generation to the next generation is never the boring of tourists of reason to visit this island. But Bali does not offer simply its unique culture; eco-tourism also has a part in the attraction of Bali.The culture of Bali will be always the wire in attraction for tourists. It is because the community follows closely the Hindu lesson, which gives

Bali's Exotic Eco Tourism

The rich culture of Bali being maintained from one generation to the next generation is never the boring of tourists of reason to visit this island. But Bali does not offer simply its unique culture; eco-tourism also has a part in the attraction of Bali.The culture of Bali will be always the wire in attraction for tourists. It is because the community follows closely the Hindu lesson, which gives

Friday, August 28, 2009

10 Bali Food

Bali is definitely a haven for food lovers and those who loves to try new food :) Here's the list of 10 Bali Balinese food that is famous with travellers! Starting from #10...


#10 - Nasi Goreng
There are as many different ways of preparing Nasi Goreng in Bali, as there are cooks. The only main ingredient is rice; everything else is determined by the cook's taste or the availability of ingredients. Please be certain to use only cold rice, as warm rice will stick to the wok.




Balinese tweaked-version of a popular Javanese dish, Ikan Pepes. When banana leaves are not available, replace with greased aluminum foil. Small whole fish are often used in Bali instead of fillets cut from a large fish; just adjust the size of the banana leaf wrapping.





#8 - Bebek Betutu
The rich essence and flavor of duck is greatly enhanced by a host of pungent herbs and roots, and seasonings in this dish, which is invariably a great favorite with visitors to Bali. The Balinese have great admiration for the duck and consider it to be a particularly strong animal as it is, like the turtle, the only one able to survive on land as water.





#7 - Kambing Mekuah
Goat is more likely to be used than lamb in Bali to make this curry – like dish. This dish is a must-have dish for family festivals and gatherings. A hit with expats in Bali.





#6 - Nasi Kuning
Yellow is one of the four sacred colors makes this festive rice dish strikingly different from the normal, everyday steamed rice. The rice is cooked in lightly seasoned coconut milk and chicken stock for extra flavor, while the touch of oil in the coconut milk gives it a glistening appearance and keeps each grain separate.



 #5 - Sate Lilit Bebek
This is the "Duck version" of the famous "Sate". Duck meat is used hear instead of mutton or chicken. The delicate flavors of the duck is greatly improved if you can find spears of fresh lemongrass to use as skewers, and if you can cook them over a fire of coconut husks rather than charcoal.




#4 - Gedang Mekuah
Unripe papayas are often used as a vegetable in Bali. If these are not available, you can use summer squash or Chinese winter melon. This dish is normally served in every traditional Balinese family gatherings.






#3 - Rujak
This popular snack, in intriguing mixture of sweet, sour and spicy hot flavors, is prepared at countless warung throughout Bali.






#2 - Sate Lilit
Yes, SATE again! This probably the most delicious satay you will ever encounter. The delicate flavors of the shrimp and fish are greatly improved if you can find spears of fresh lemongrass to use as skewers, and if you can cook them over a fire of coconut husks rather than charcoal. Nonetheless, even with wooden skewers and a standard charcoal grill, you will have people coming back more.



  #1 - Babi Guling (Guling Celeng)
If there's just one dish that people remember after a visit to Bali, it's this famous delicacy, usually known by its Indonesian name, Babi Guling. Babi Guling is actually roasted pig which is marinated with pungent herbs and frozen for at least 1 day before it gets roasted!




Hehehe... so are you tempted to visit Bali and try the above-mentioned Balinese food? If you are coming to Bali soon, don't forget to read "Bali Travel Guide" for first-timers! It is a must read for Bali's first time visitors and travellers!


Bali Poem

Hello everybody, just a short post before I leave for an important event! I was reading through my diary earlier on and I came across a poem I wrote back in 2005 after the Bali Bombings.. Hope everyone likes it :)


A flash in time, just a moment in history,
Reasons why, remain a mystery,
Paradise lost never to be regained
Bali natives forever defamed.

A jewel of an island, set around blue sea,
No hint of sadness, all , pleasure and fancy free
All lost in a flash, with the blast of a terrorist bomb
Our Bali haven, forever gone.

The bombing occurs, silence rings in our ears,
Just that second, then comes the screams and tears
Lives cut down all in a nameless cause,
Terrorists laugh, with a macarb applause.

Innocents abroad, with no hint of danger here,
Seeking pleasant memories, they came from near and far,
Young and old alike mingling in a merry throng
Laughters loud, keeping in time to a happy song,

To what purpose this waste of human life,
We ask the question what means this callous strife,
Does it serve a purpose does it service some grand plan,
Or does it just illustrate a crazy man's inhumanity to man.

Hope everyone likes the poem ;)

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Bali Dream Villa Hotel Seminyak Indonesia

The Bali Dream Villa

Bali Villa Review - The Bali Dream Villa is a luxurious villa accommodation in Bali located near to Seminyak Beach and Bali's Ngurah Rai airport.

The Bali Dream Villa contains 14 private ethnic Balinese styled villas in Seminyak, Bali. It is located very close to Ngurah Rai Airport, the beautiful Seminyak Beach and other tourist attractions. It is definitely an exclusive accomodation for tourists who are seeking the ultimate luxury, style and privacy. The Bali Dream Villa Bali architecture reflects modernised Balinese design and style combined with a contemporary and minimalist design with refined crafts and furnitures.

I recently stayed at the Bali Dream Villa for 3 days, and found them to be an absolute bargain. I booked through HotelsCombined, and paid about USD $230 a night including buffet breakfast. For what they are, this is an absolute steal.


The Villas are fabulous, with private pools, and are reasonably private and well laid out. We always found them impeccably clean, and the staff were fabulous and friendly .Completed with a private pool, private dining room and kitchenette the villa is good for a family as well. The Villa presented with an elegant and unique architecture. Surround by the green trees around the villa. The spa is also available at the villa's area and includes a restaurant with international - western food as well.
We stayed in a two bedroom for the first night, which was nice, however due to the steep staircase to the second level 2nd bedroom they are not recommended for people traveling with very small children. I was traveling with my wife and our 5 year old son, and we were really just after some relaxation by the pool.


The Villas are not located in central Seminyak, but the friendly staff are always ready within 15 minutes or so to shuttle you around to anywhere you want to go. Its about a 10 minute ride to Seminyak, Ku De Ta Restaurant etc, a bit further if you want to go into Kuta.


The food as many people have mentioned is pretty average, but what the hell, its pretty cheap anyway. I recommend eating at nearby Made's Warung in Seminyak for some great cheap and cheerful, and there is always Ku De Ta if you feel like getting a bit of the nightlife scene, although be prepared to pay for the privilege.

If you are after cosy villas with a private pool at an absolute bargain rate Bali Dream Villas are the way to go. Each villa is provided with individual air-conditioners, wireless internet connection, discreet swimming pool with personal sundecks, Integrated open air living and dining room with private pantry, Kitchenette with a gas hob, Private stock Refreshment bar/refrigerator, Coffee & tea making facilities, Personal safety deposit box, IDD telephone, Large Flat Screen TV & DVD player in each room, Dining room in multi channel station, Writing desk, Weight scale, Iron and board, Hair dryer, Touch light/Emergency light, Slippers, Bathrobe, Complimentary toiletries, Magnifying Mirror.

Published rates are above USD $400, however, you can get better rates like I did for only USD $230 by booking online from HotelsCombined. You can also view the rates of The Bali Dream Villa here, Bali Dream Villa Rates and Reviews.



Jalan Bidadari No.108X Seminyak
Bali Indonesia
Phone. +62 361 737788 Facsimile: +62 361 73





Travel Destination : Tirta Gangga

Travel Destination : Tirta Gangga



Tirta Gangga is situated at Ababi village, Abang District. It is about 83 km from Denpasar and 6 km from Amlapura to the north.Tirta Gangga water garden was built in 1948 by the King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem. This water garden was constructed in a very unique architecture of Balinese and Chinese styles.Tirta Gangga Water Garden scratches on a 1,2 Hectare area, which

Tirta Gangga

Tirta Gangga is situated at Ababi village, Abang District. It is about 83 km from Denpasar and 6 km from Amlapura to the north.Tirta Gangga water garden was built in 1948 by the King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem. This water garden was constructed in a very unique architecture of Balinese and Chinese styles.Tirta Gangga Water Garden scratches on a 1,2 Hectare area, which

I'm Missing Bali





Things have been really busy with me, and I've been spending alot of time out of Bali Indonesia and in Singapore. There were major reshuffling of talents managements, photo shoots, castings and hosting events between Singapore and Bali. I'm now still in Singapore and will only be back in Bali this monday. Hoping to spend enough time with Dad and Mum, and of course, my beloved cat, Hanzel when I'm back in Bali.




My adorable sister, Siska actually came to Singapore to actually accompany me, with my lovely nephew, Lucas. Such the adorable (and mischevious!) little one he is: he's all growned up, and he speaks really proficiently - so well that its quite scary for a 4 year old saying "Bats hunt for food using Echo-Lo-kay-shionnn". Get me? Heh :)


Just a little toss on what I've been doing to fill my time: Attended the Shout awards in Kuala Lumpur(Malaysia), I hosted the Chivas Regal Alexander McQueen Limited Edition bottle (Chivas Regal - without a doubt my most favourate alcohol :p), the opening of the new Park Hotel in Clarke Quay (Amaaaazing food), the launch of the new Honda Freed, did a cover photoshoot with Jovian Mandagie (superb local designer and dear friend of mine), helped plan the outline of a Fashion TV programme and I am trying to find the time to celebrate my birthday - my 28th birthday (jeez I'm about a quarter of a century old now)!


For sure, I'll be celebrating my birthday in my beloved hometown, BALI! I have friends flying in from Singapore, Perth, Sydney, and of course my favourite girls from Diva Models will be there too, but can you imagine trying to accomodate everyone (about 70 people) at my place in Nusa Dua? I know it's gonna be crazy but hey, my lovely friends volunteered to actually fly to Bali just for my birthday and I should be honoured ain't it :)


Gosh! I really can't believe that I'm turning 28? Time really flies! I recall the conversation I had with Julian(My ex-boyfriend in 2005) and how I promised myself that by the age of 28, I'll visit South America and go back-packing to Brazil and Argentina? I also remember how I told my mom and friends that 28 is the age I want to marry?


Non of the goals I set for myself by the time I turn 28, have been achieve! I was doing some reflection earlier on and came to realize that I've really procrastinated alot. Whenever I am reminded of my dream to get married and go back-packing in South America, I always tell myself "It's ok Anastasia, you can always do so later on so just focus on making money"!! And the interesting part, I was reading Fox Nomad's blog and came across an article - "Overcoming 7 Major Obstacles To Traveling The World – #7 You Will Travel The World…Later" from Fox Nomad and that article was talking about "PROCRASTINATION". That really made me realize(AGAIN!) how I've really procrastinated alot and how damaging it is towards my goals and dreams!


To quote Anil from Fox Nomad: "Fear, anxiety, comfort in your routine, all combine and instead of dealing with the cause of all of the obstacles you’ll do the easiest thing – procrastinate and make excuses."


That is so true! The thing about me is that, I came from a poor family and was raised with the idea "EARN MORE MONEY SO THAT YOU CAN EAT AND LIVE". I always prioritize work and money before anything else. I always have the mentality that once I'm rich then I'll pursue my dreams and marry. The environment I grew up in mould me into a workaholic. I need somebody to always remind me to take a break and travel. Now that I've made enough money, it's already a part of me, "to work, and work and work" and I still can't resist the temptation of signing on more deals for more dough. Argghhhhh.


Oh well, I should really stop ranting about this. I should just check myself into a mental hospital aye? Hehs. On a sidenote, I hope everyone is keeping well, we've passed the 3/4 mark of the year now, and lets move towards ending this year with a bang! :)

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

8 Must-Visit Bali Shopping Destination

8 Bali's Shopping Destinations A Tourist Must Visit!

 

Shopping is a very famous activity for travellers to Bali. In fact, tourist shops are sprinkled all over bali in the hope of getting lots of tourist visitors as customers! I've come up with 8 destinations for tourists to visit for your must-do shopping activity during your Bali Vacation! However, before you embark on your shopping adventure, do read up my "Shopping In Bali" guide to ensure that you get the best buys and good prices ;)
Denpasar
Denpasar being the capital of Bali, is the main "market" for the Balinese. Kumbasari market, which is nearby Badung River, is the biggest traditional market. It is the perfect place to get an insight into the traditional Indonesia market where local people do their daily shopping. Fruit, vegetables and meat can be found in the basement; on the second level is the place for spices and dried goods; while household wares, clothing, art and craft is on the third level. Here you can get a very good price if you're smart in bargaining. To find handicrafts, shoe shops and restaurants, you can head towards the northern part of Gajah Mada Street. To the east is Sulawesi Street, where you can get textiles and fabrics. On both sides of Sulawesi Street, you can find shops providing household wares. The area here is very colorful with all types of material from the traditional "songket" (cloth woven with strands of gold or silver) to modern day stretchy and shiny material. Why not buy your cloth by the meter and have a suit or dress made up by a local tailor. On the west Side of the market is the place for locals to buy coconut leaf and ceremonial supplies. In the southern part is Hasanudin Street where you can see gold and jewellery shops, tourists are always welcome but please bargain or you may find your pockets getting burnt :)

Ubud
Ubud is well-known for fine arts with international standard. This is where you can get the best Balinese culture arts and crafts. Highly-regarded art galleries such as Sumertha, Neka, Agung Rai, Rudana and Sika are highly  recommended. Big names like Hans Snel and Antonio Blanco is recommended too however they may be really expensive.

The Kuta Area
As an international village almost all of the shops and restaurants here are for tourist market. You can find handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, CDs, furniture and leather crafts on each side of the road. But you can also see many street hawkers with their various offerings along the road. If you do not want to buy anything from them, do not make eye contact and do not ever look at their products, for if you do, they will follow you along the street and pester you to buy something.

Batubulan
On the border of Denpasar and Gianyar, lies Batubulan, the home to sculptures made of stone. You can find various kind of sculptures here ranging from traditional to minimalist, small to large, cheap to expensive :) The craftsmen can sculp random and custom orders and even ship them to your home address back in your country.

Sukawati
This area is popular to shop for Balinese arts. If you ask the locals where to get the cheapest Balinese arts and crafts, Sukawati will be their answer. Besides arts and crafts, you can also find statues, paintings, cloth, Balinese jewelry and also Balinese ceremonial needs,

Tegalalang
Very colourful wooden carvings of flowers, objects and more are displayed gracefully along the road. Various woodcarvings can be found in this village and its nearby neighbourhood at cheap prices! Here's the place to really master the art of bargaining.


Bono
The village to shop for anything made of Bamboo! Yes practically everything from furnitures to mats to window blinds! The villagers are really good at making use of Bamboo for their crafts. You'll be amazed at their talent and creativity!

Tenganan
This is where the native Balinese are located. The "Bali Aga" village in Karangasem, is the only village in Bali that produces the sought-after Balinese Geringsing textile. The materials for Geringsing are all acquired from the surrounding nature. To process Geringsing fabric, traditional methods rooting back to the old Balinese times, are used. The fabric is very delicate, durable and long-lasting thus the expensive price tags! No chemicals are used in the process and great care is taken to ensure the "natural" process.

To ensure you enjoy your Bali Holiday


You can actually read up "Bali Travel Guide For Newbies" or Bali Holiday Kit which are must reads for first-timers to Bali to ensure that you have an enjoyable vacation in Bali. 11 Essential Bali Travel Tips is also a good read with useful tips for Bali's visitors. 



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Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Balinese Traditional Architecture

Balinese Traditional Architecture



If, instead of walking, we look at Balinese villages from above the impression of order is no less extraordinary. Houses are all identical and strikingly parallel in layout with family temples, kitchens and rooms occupying the same relative position in the walled compound.Large temples, likewise, all have the same structure with their main shrines occupying the same 'kaja kangin' (east-mountain

Balinese Architecture

If, instead of walking, we look at Balinese villages from above the impression of order is no less extraordinary. Houses are all identical and strikingly parallel in layout with family temples, kitchens and rooms occupying the same relative position in the walled compound.Large temples, likewise, all have the same structure with their main shrines occupying the same 'kaja kangin' (east-mountain

Sunday, August 23, 2009

art and culture of bali : Baris Dance

art and culture of bali : Baris Dance



According to Covarrubias no dance in the world can be manlier than baris. Baris, a traditional war dance, typifies the strong elegance of the male and is the source of for all masculine dances. The Baris dance can be performed by men in pairs of four, eight, sometimes even tens; the accompanying gamelan is the gamelan gong or gamelan gong kebyar. The word “baris” means a line or military

Baris Dance

According to Covarrubias no dance in the world can be manlier than baris. Baris, a traditional war dance, typifies the strong elegance of the male and is the source of for all masculine dances. The Baris dance can be performed by men in pairs of four, eight, sometimes even tens; the accompanying gamelan is the gamelan gong or gamelan gong kebyar. The word “baris” means a line or military

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Travel Destination : Dreamland Beach

Travel Destination : Dreamland Beach


Forget in moment Kuta, Sanur, and or Nusa Dua. Enjoying Bali only by sand sunning in the coasts not be prestigious anymore. Nowadays, time for you enjoying more challenging exotic and exclusive vacation. Because the coasts only known by a few tourists. The information even also by mouth to mouth. You will not find in reference or travel. Even so maybe its not too much and can be calculated by

Dreamland Beach

Forget in moment Kuta, Sanur, and or Nusa Dua. Enjoying Bali only by sand sunning in the coasts not be prestigious anymore. Nowadays, time for you enjoying more challenging exotic and exclusive vacation. Because the coasts only known by a few tourists. The information even also by mouth to mouth. You will not find in reference or travel. Even so maybe its not too much and can be calculated by

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Mesaba, Subak's Ritual as Manifestation of Farmer's Thanks Giving

The Hindu community in Bali continually pays tribute for the proceeds of what they have undertaken. No matter its proceeds are sizable or bijou, they stay to hold ritual activity as the expression of their gratitude to the Creator. Such gratitude is frequently embodied through yajna (holy sacrifice), a presentation to the Almighty God for all of his endowment.Similarly, the tradition is carried

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Bali Surfing

Bali is a good place for surfing for a number of reasons. These include warm water, relatively uncrowded breaks, when compared to California and Australia. Bali gets some kind of surf most of the year, there are beach breaks and Kuta and Dreamland and also reef breaks on the rest of the Bukit, including the famous Uluwatu. Bali’s unique geography, means that you can get a selection of left hand

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Foreign Consulates in Bali

Some foreign countries maintaining consulates and representatives in Bali are as follows :AUSTRALIA(also rep. Canada, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea & other commonwealth in emergencies)Australian ConsulateJalan Hayam Wuruk No. 88 B – Tanjung Bungkak – Denpasar, Bali 80324Tel : ++62-(0)361-241118 Facsimile: ++62-(0)361-241120Email : bali.congen@dfat.gov.auBRITISHBritish Honorary ConsulCat and

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Bali Wedding

Getting married is one of the most important events in the life of most people. Both the bride and groom hope to keep an unforgettable memory of this day. Therefore, many marriages are celebrated in unusual ways – be it on a beautiful beach, at a luxurious private villa, even with ceremonies under water deep in the ocean with lovely fish and corals around.According to all popular travel

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Purnama (Full Moon)

Purnama or full moon is an auspicious day to Balinese people. Many important Hindu rituals fall upon or are held at this time. The day is believed to bring happiness both socially and spiritually. The significance of purnama, however has changed over recent times.In the past, say four or five decades ago, purnama had more meaning for romantic things, while its ritual dimension was rather

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Bali Safari and Marine Park

Bali Safari and Marine Park is established by Taman Safari Indonesia who operate a successful safari park in Bogor, West Java, the Bali facility is lauded as the Company’s flagship park and will eventually employ a workforce of 400 charged with caring for the animals and serving the thousands of visitors expected to visit Bali Safari each day.Designed by a leading U.S. zoo architect, guests will

Saturday, August 8, 2009

Authentic Balinese Cuisine: From Ceremonial Food to Daily Consumption

The most popular being lawar, saté, and babi guling. Lawar is made of [Photo]minced meat, vegetables, finely cut crackling, mixed with a lot of spices and uncooked-blood as a binding sauce. Saté or satay is grilled chopped meat that can be beef, pork, or chicken. Babi guling is a spit-roasted suckling pig. In the past, these foods were only made for religious rituals, celebrations, or festivals.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Bali Culture

Although there are no artifacts or records dating back to the Stone Age, it is believed that the first settlers on Bali migrated from China around 2500 BC. By the Bronze era, around 300 B.C. quite an evolved culture existed in Bali. The complex system of irrigation and rice production, still in use today, was established around this time.History is vague for the first few centuries. A number of

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Gitgit Waterfall

Gitgit Waterfall is representing is a beautiful tourist destination in north of Bali. Gitgit waterfall is located in the plateau with the height about 35 meters and surrounded by tropical tree and emits the water naturally with the constant debit during the year. Waterfall voice around the charming nature was amazing and represents the separate attraction and can be enjoyed by each visitor who

Monday, August 3, 2009

Sun Rise Trekking to Mount Batur and Mount Agung

Trekking to the sacred mountains, watching the spectacular sun rise is an unforgettable ways of experiencing holidays in Bali. Start early in the morning to ensure you are at the top at the right time for sun rise. Enjoy the great views of the whole island from the top while enjoying your breakfast.Here area bit of stories about these trekkings:Trekking Mount Batur:Mount Batur, a three-crater

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Calon Arang Dance

It can be the enchanting hour the first night of full moon, when the long shades drew aside like phantoms on the ground, that crowd of village meets around a release close to the temple of deaths to observe the drama of Calon Arang, the widow-witch of Girah. Each Balinese knows the legend of Rangda like CaIon Arang, a favourite in the local folklore.A long ago, when Airlangga was a king, there