Karangasem

Karangasem
Karangasem has so much potential to support the development of its tourism industry.its rich natural settings with mountains,hills,rivers,lush rice fields and lovely beaches abound with the unique daily life of the people and their culture make Karangasem worth to visit.
The regency of Karangasem is one of nine regencies in Bali situated in the eastern part of Bali,coveringnan area of 839,54 sq.kilometers and bordered at the east by Lombok Strait and to the west by Klungkung,Bangli,and Buleleng Regencies.Karangasem itself consists of eight districts named : Karangasem,Manggis,Rendang,Selat,Sidemen,Bebandem,Abang,And Kubu district.Karangasem has an axtraordinary variety of scenic landscape.low and high mountain ranges intermingle with upland remains,and the traditional “Bali Aga” village with their way of life make Karangasem worth visiting.
It is very easy to reach all of the interesting places in Karangasem which are supported by fairly good road conditions,facilities the same at hotels,restaurant,money changers,souvenir shops and others which oen would expect in a tourist environment.
Precisely,Karangasem Regency is located between 80 00’00”-8041’37,8”southlatitude and 115035’9,’9”-115054’8,9” east longitude.The total land surface of this regency is 83.954 Hectare and covers 3 administrative villages,68 traditional villages,52 community groups,and 526 smaller community groups called “Dusun”
The population registration,taken place in 2003,reported that the total population of Karangasem Regency is approximately 388.320 people,consisting of 193.518 men and 194802 women.People of Karanasem make their living in various ways,some are farmer,fishermen,traders,crafsmen,and even active in the tourism field.People in majority are hindu followers who live a very religious life,thus ritual activities can be seen almost everyday in this area.
Karangasem regency is an area with tropical climate which experiences 2 different seasons of dry season ( April-October )and wet season ( Nopember-March).The largest rainfalls in on October,which is in 166 days,with the average rainfall of 182 mm.Its plantations and animal population are grouped in tropical species.

Lovina Tour

TOUR SINGARAJA LOVINA TOUR



It amazing trip to the north of Bali,by visiting Ulundanu Temple at the lake Bratan.Next to Gitgit waterfall while along your journey you will be witnessing clove and coffe plantation at the hill.Then drive down to Banjar Village famous for it’s hot spring water and Buddish Temple.You may take bath in warm spring water Lunch will be serve at Lovina Beach.after lunch we drive back via Pupuan Village for it’s beautiful rice terraces.

Ubud Tour

TOUR ( UBUD + MONKEY FOREST )

It’s half day tour offer you special knowledge of the famous art village.Batik painting at Tohpati.Batubulan the stone carving centre.Celuk for its gold & silver smith.Balinese paiting at Batuan.Mas for wood carving.Then visiting Tegallang for witnessing enchanting rice terraces.Let’s share time for going to rest Ubud Monkey fofor Fun.

JATILUWIH TOUR

TOUR 4 (JATILUWIH TOUR SPECTACULAR RICE TERRACES TOUR )

A full day tour exploring a number of the most beautiful sights of the island.,the first is we visit Batu Karu temple is one of the oldest temple in Bali.Next to Jatiluwih,one of the Bali’s most stuning scenery and spectacular rice field terraces.Having lunch at local restaurant meanwhile you can overlooking undulating rice terraces.Our last stop will be Mengwi temple,the royal temple.

People

People


Life in Bali is very communal with the organisation of villages, farming and even the creative arts being decided by the community. The local government is responsible for schools, clinics, hospitals and roads, but all other aspects of life are placed in the hands of two traditional committees, whose roots in Balinese culture stretch back centuries. The first, Subak, concerns the production of rice and organises the complex irrigation system. Everyone who owns a sawah,or padi field, must join their local Subak, which ensures that every member gets his fair share of irrigation water. The other community organisation is the Banjar, responsible for arranging all village festivals, marriage ceremonies and cremations. Most villages have at least one Banjar and all men have to join when they marry. Banjars, on average, give membership to 50 up to 100 families and all Banjars have their own meeting place called the Bale Banjar. As well as being used for regular meetings, the Bale (pavilion) is where the local gamelan orchestras and drama groups practice.

Full Day Tour

FULL DAY TOURS.

TOUR 1 ( KINTAMANI AND ART TOUR )

A full day tour wondering the beauty of this island visiting: Batubulan which is famous of it’s magic dance The Barong and Kris Dance.The place also reknown for it’s stone carving.Then you will visit the jewelry marking village of Celuk.Noted for it’s delicately detailed work and fillingree ornamentation;the village of mas,famous for it’s fine woodcarving,and the painters colon at Ubud.The ancient Elephant Cave Temple at Bedulu,set amongst scenic ricefield and natural garden atTegalalang Village.On to Tampak Siring side of Tirta Empul sacred spring and holy bathing pool Kintamani is one Bali’ popular tourist stop where we will get lunch wheli witnessing the fantastic scenery of Mounth batur with its lake.

TOUR 2 ( TRADITIONAL VILLAGE TOUR )

This tour special ofer the traditional village of Bali and how the activities of Balinese daily life.Featuring to visit Batuan Village for its Traditional Balinese house compound.Th following place to visit is Panglipuran,witnessing the traditional village where the entrance gate,size.condition and the lay out of a compound is nearly the same.Next we will visit Kehen Temple which is was built in 13th century.Lunch will be served at Kintamani witnessing the fantastic scenery of mount batur with lake.

HOLIDAY INFORMATION

Indonesia
The republic of Indonesia, independent since 1945, consists of more than 17,000 islands.
The islands are subdivided into several groups of islands. Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan (the Indonesian part of Borneo) and Sulawesi make up the Greater Sunda Islands. The Lesser Sunda Islands are comprised of Bali and the islands further to the east, Maluku and West Papua New Guinea. Indonesia is the world's largest insular State with a surface area of 1.9 Mio. km².
Measured by population, Indonesia is, with 210 Mio. Inhabitants, the fourth biggest country in the world (after China, Indian and USA).

Bali
Bali belongs to the Lesser Sunda Islands. With approx.5.500 km², Bali is twice as large as Saarland. The distance from East to West is 140km, from North to South 80km., with a population of approx. 3 Million.

The religion from most Indonesians is Sunnite Islam, making it the nation with the most Muslims.
Bali, however, is a Hindu enclave. This can be explained by the history of the islands. Following a large number of power struggles between the diverse Javanese rulers, who were followers of either Hinduism or Buddhism, and with the influence of Islam steadily increasing, many inhabitants of Java fled to the neighbouring island of Bali, where a large part of the natives were followers of a local religion, Bali Aga.. . This religion, mixed with the religions from India resulting in the local form of Hinduism which is mainly practised in Bali today.

This relatively self contained social and religious community life is one of the main characteristics of the Balinese which is of great interest to visitors. Furthermore may of the people of Bali are especially creative in arts and crafts. Dance, music, wood carving, painting, basketry, weaving are common skills.
Tourism has become the main economic factor in the otherwise agricultural country. Although the travel industry is concentrated into a few main tourist areas, the constant flow of visitors and the regular contact to foreign cultures influences the everyday life of the islanders to a large extent.
Meanwhile, the influences of the tourist boom are being evaluated and the direction in which tourism will take in the future is being considered. The tour operates are realising the necessity of conservation and protection to ensure that Bali will continue to be attractive to visitors in the future. Additionally the awareness of the importance of socially responsible tourism is becoming more obvious.
Usefull informations from A to Z

Accommodation
Accommodation is available for all requirements from luxury hotel to simple cabin or guesthouse. By package tours the accommodation is selected by booking and individual travellers will have no problem finding somewhere to stay.

Alternative Tourism
The conservation movement of the industrial countries on the one hand and the difficulties of constant expansion on the other have led to a different approach to tourism. Tourism which is gentle, ecological, socially correct and with regard to the future is the answer to the development of the mass tourism, which was a product of the last century. This means to travel keeping in mind that you are a visitor in a strange country.
Prudent travellers can offer a constructive contribution by travelling in such a way as to do the least damage possible to the environment. Most Tour Operators are open to suggestions.

Climate/Weather
Indonesia has a tropical climate with high humidity.
The average yearly temperature in Indonesia is between 25-30°C (77-86°F) Nights are not much cooler.
The seasons are defined by the monsoons and consist of dry season and rainy or wet season.
The rain falls in short, heavy showers, after which the sun shines again. The climate throughout Indonesia varies considerable depending of the area.

Currency
The Indonesian currency is the Rupiah (Stand November 2008: 1 Euro = ca. 15.286 Rupiah, 10.000 IDR = 6,64 EUR), with the smallest denomination of 500 Rp being a coin and all other denominations from 1000 to 200,000 being notes.
Travellers cheques in US$ and credit cards are widely accepted but it is advisable to always have enough cash with you. It is possible to change traveller cheques or your home currency into local currency. It is often worthwhile comparing the exchange rates of the banks and money changers.
NOTE: When paying with credit cards a charge will sometimes be added. Prices are often written in US$

Departure
By the departure from Indonesia, an airport tax of 150.000 Rupiah will be charged. This can only be paid in local currency directly at the airport.

Electricity
220 Volt, an international adapter is necessary!

Fauna
The fauna consists of a variety of tropical animals including monkeys, water buffalos, snakes, lizards and numerous birds and insects, but also oxen, pigs and dogs.
Recently conservation has also become an official matter, for although the Balinese farmers use ecological and economical methods, conditions are changing due to influences such as tourism.

Festivals and public Holidays
Although the official calendar the same is as in Europe, Bali also has its own traditional calendars, which is essential to the everyday life of the Balinese.
The Balinese Year or Wuku calendar consists of 210 days with 30 weeks of 7 days.
The saka calendar is based on another calculation and is approx. 80 years behind the western Gregorian calendar, so that 1925 is the equivalent of 2003.
Beside the specific Balinese time calculations the Muslim-Arabian, the old Javanese and the Chinese calendar also apply. Although this sounds very complicated, the traveller is not affected.
Because of the various calendar in use, there are a large number of public holidays and festivals in Bali, having information about the Balinese calendar is helpful when planning to visit one of these festivals.. Independent of the official public holidays following local festivals are celebrated almost daily: funerals/cremations, temple festivals, tooth-filing ceremonies, temple offerings and prayer ceremonies.
Contrary to European habits, travellers are always welcome to take part in these festivals and ceremonies (including cremations) but the proper respect and behaviour is expected.

Flora
Bali lies in the tropics south of the equator and the climate is influenced by the monsoons. The main agricultural product is rice and large areas of land are rice fields.
To the west is a rainforest national park, to the southwest large areas of palm trees combined with mangrove swamps, to the east there are mountains right up the coast and in the north it is mainly flat with numerous lakes. This region is dominated by the volcanoes, along whose slopes little grows.
The Banyan- or Waringin tree is a conspicuous characteristic of each village.
The flora is dominated by useful plants, either as food: fruit, vegetables, coffee, cacao or tobacco, bamboo and palm trees. Flowers such as the bougainvilla are used as offerings or decoration by certain festivals. Grapes are also grown in north Bali and used in the production of wine.

Getting there
A variety of direct flights to Bali are available from Europe.
For those who prefer to take a more indirect route it is also possible to fly to Medan in North Sumatra or to Jakarta in Java and take the overland route. Another possibility is with the shipping traffic between the islands.
Alternatively it is also possible to arrive by travelling over Singapore of Surabaya. From there it is possible to fly to Mataram on the neighbouring island of Lombok, and then travel on to Bali.
When planning your trip it is important to consider your main interest while visiting Bali - culture, water sports or just relaxing. In any case it is relatively simple to spend several interesting and varied weeks on the island. For those wishing to experience the diversity of Indonesia, a tour including visits to other islands is recommended. Because of the long distances within Indonesia it is advisable to make use of the well developed network of national airlines. There is also a train service operating on Java, for example from Jakarta to Surabaya. Otherwise there are also the hoards of buses available from Sumatra to Bali.

Health
The strain a trip to the tropics put on your health should not be under estimated.
Alone the flight from central Europe takes up to 20 hours and the change in climate is extreme.
The average yearly temperature in Indonesia is between 25-30°C (77-86°F) and humidity is high.
In general special vaccinations and precautions are not necessary but tetanus, polio and Hepatitis A are recommended. The decision to take Malaria prophylaxis should be made individually, but it is important to protect against the mosquitoes with sprays and appropriate clothing. The risk of HIV-Aids In Bali is the same as everywhere else in the world.
Although medical care is easily available in Denpasar and other large tourist areas, further inland and in more remote areas western medicine is not so common. It is also possible to be treated by the traditional healer (Balian), the massages are especially beneficial by sprains or broken bones. The traditional medicine in Bali is passed on though generations and is, in many cases, officially supported.
There are no special travel facilities for handicapped people or people in wheelchairs. More information can be obtained from special tour operators for handicapped people.
A personal first aid kit should be included in your luggage and you should check the terms and conditions of your health insurance before leaving home. If necessary take out an additional travel health insurance, including transport back home in medical emergencies.

Insurance
We recommend that all travellers take out insurance to cover cancellation, lost or stolen luggage and medical or hospital costs.
Divers are advised to join DAN or a similar organisation.

Language
Bahasa Indonesia, a Malaysian language, is the language spoken in Indonesia and the official language in Bali is Indonesian.
English is common enough in the main tourist areas, that communication is possible.
However, the mother tongue of the inhabitants is Balinese, which is rooted in Sanskrit, with a separate written language. Tourists are most likely to encounter this language during ritual festivals.
As small tip:
Bahasa Indonesia is the easiest language in the world to learn , and it is possible to learn a couple of words within a short time with the help of a travel dictionary.

Measurement
The official measurement system is metric, although traditional measurement are also still in use.

Passport / Visa
European tourists require a passport which is valid for at least 6 months.
As from 01.02.2004 all tourist require a visa, which is valid for 30days and costs 25,- US$ by arrival in Bali. This must be paid in new bank notes.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after leaving Indonesia.
All details given here are for information only and we take no liability for changes in the requirements. Please inform yourself by the consulate of the latest requirements.

Telephone
Apart from the possibility of telephoning from the larger hotels, there is also a reliable telephone service from public telephones and fax machines: WARTEL. To use mobile telephones it is advisable to buy a local SIM card

Time difference
There are three time zones in Indonesia. Depending on if we have winter or summer time, the time difference to west Indonesian time is +6 or +7 hours. Between Java and Bali there is a time difference of 1 hour (middle Indonesian time) meaning there is an additional hour difference to England. (+7 or +8 hours).

Tradition/Adat
The Balinese society follows strong rules collectively known as „adat". These include general rules of behaviour and daily life according to the Hindu religion. Although the Indian caste system is not practised on Bali, differences can be seen in the names.
The Brahmins (Ida Bagus / Ida Ayu) belong to the priests, the Satrias (Ratu/Anak Agung/Cokorde) are the aristocracy and the Wesia (Gusti / Si Luh) are the warriors and traders, the Sudras - the majority of the population - do not belong to any caste. By the children of the Sundra caste, their names also indicate the order in which they were born, the first born is called Wayan, followed by Made, then Nyoman and Ketut. By the fifth child the sequence begins again with Wayan, etc.
Ritual regulations determine the daily routine and the religious and social duties of the Balinese.

Useful addresses


Indonesian Embassy
38 Grosvenor Square
London W1K 2HW
Tel. (020) 7499 7661
Fax. (020) 7491 4993
Internet: http://www.indonesianembassy.org.uk/


British Embassy
Jl. M.H. Thamrin No. 75
Jakarta 10310
Indonesia
Tel. 00 (62) (21) 315 6264
Fax 00 (62) (21) 315 4061
Internet: http://www.britain-in-indonesia.or.id/


British Consulate
Deutsche Bank Building , 19th Floor
Jl. Imam Bonjol 80
Jakarta 10310
Indonesia
Tel. 00 (62) (21) 390 7484
Fax 00 (62) (21) 316 0858
E-MAIL: britemb@attglobal.net


Indonesian Tourist Office
Kanwil X Depparpostel
Kompleks Niti Mandala
Jl. Raya Puputan
Denpasar 80235 Indonesia
Tel. 00 62 (3 61) 22 56 49
Fax 00 62 (3 61) 23 34 75

Vaccinations
When arriving from Europe no special vaccinations or precautions are necessary.
Bali is free from malaria but in Irian Jaya, on the small Sunda islands and in the rainforests of Kalimantan malaria is widespread.
Consult your local doctor, vaccinations against tetanus, polio, hepatitis A and B are recommended.

Wining & Dining
Western, or international cuisine is more widespread than local food in the tourist areas.
Various international specialities are available, not only in the large hotels, but also in numerous restaurants. Even sausage and mash or Black forest Gateaux are available - although it seems a shame to go all the way to Bali for such things. Even fast-food-chains are represented, although it should not be necessary to take quick meals whilst on holiday.
Balinese food includes Roast Pork (babi guling) or rice wine (brem balik). Balinese specialities such as fried banana (pisang goreng) or Fish ball-soup (Bakso) are offered at the snack bars and on the beach. Fresh fruit juices (jus) give a impression of the variety of fruits available and a young coconut, direct from the tree, is a refreshment unlike anything obtainable in Europe.

BALI ARCHITECTURE

Bali Architecture

Balinese architecture is not only aesthetically impressive with wood carvings, majestic stone gates and ornate Indian influence engravings, Balinese architecture also has strong spiritual symbolism. Many temples, rice barns and other structures are built according to traditional Balinese rules, called Asta Kosala Kosali, which traditionally were written down in lontar palm books and interpreted by traditional architects called Undagi. This leads to very distinctive designs and architectural congruence throughout Bali’s villages, which all delicately interwoven with the natural surroundings.

In Balinese building, one of the most common features is the Bale, which is an open pavilion with a thatched roof and no walls. The Bale represents the Hindu-Balinese universe. The roof is the 'gods' section, the body is the 'human' section, and the base is the 'demons' section

Other impressively symbolic architectural sites in Bali are its palaces. Since in classical 19th century Bali, the Balinese believes their king was divine, his residence was the puri - a replica of the cosmos and thus a sacred symbol. Balinese palaces are always square, walled, and courts within courts.

In Bali, all buildings have to be brought to life and ceremonially purified in a ceremony called Melaspas before they can be lived in. It is important that all materials – such as the wood, stone and thatch, which have been cut down and killed for the construction, are, as it were, re-incarnated. During this ceremony, many offerings and gifts are made, including animal sacrifices.

Bali-Hindu Temples

Temples

The Hindu-Balinese faith touches every aspect of the people’s life.That’s why,every community has at least a temple.The Balinese word for temple is pura,which is a Sanskrit word meaning ‘a space surrounded by wall’

For much of the year Balinese temples are deserted,but on holy days the deities and ancestral spirits descend from heaven to visit their devotees,and the temples come alive with days of frenetic activity and nights of drama and dance.Temple festival come at least once every Balinese year ( 210 days).

The architecture of Balinese temples reflects the connection of mankind to God,but also to the nature,as reflected in the Tri Hita Karana philosophy.The Balinese temples is open to its environment,with three courtyards in ascending levels of sanctity,replicating the tripartite structure of the cosmos.More than in the actual architecture,the genius of the tempels’builders are found in exquisite carving inspired by the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics,and sometimes from more modern events,like the sculptures from Dutch colonization in the temples near Sangsit in north Bali.

Temples ate often located on impressive hills,mountain flanks,seashore,or even caves,with a felt energy from their surroundings.In most cases,the structures and sculptures date from the 20th century,but hve been appropriated from old sites of worship,usually animist,that may date centuries back.

The largest and holiest temple in Bali is Besakih,located on the slopes of Mount Agung,well over a thousand years old.Steps ascend through split gates to Besakih’s main courtyard where the Trinity shrines are wrapped in cloth and decorated with flower offerings.

The ancient temple of Tirta Empul is built around the sacred spring of Tampaksiring.The temple and its two bathing spots have been used by the Balinese for over a thousand years.Tanah Lot is an important sea temple dedicated to the guardian spirits of the sea.Ancient rituals pay homage to the guardian spirits of the sea.Poisonous sea snakes found in the caves at the base of the rocky island are believed to be guardians of the temple.

On the shore of lake Beratan,Ulun Danu is often shrouded in mist and hauntingly beautifu.Uluwatu temple’s real attraction is its location,which is where sheer clifts drop precipitously into the clear blue sea.

Not far the faint-hearted,Goa Lawah temple is located in a cave filled with thousands of bats and is said to lead all the way to Besakih.In mengwi,Taman Ayun temple has its own distinctive pagodas that symbolize the sacred mountain Mahameru,residence of the Supreme God.There’s also Kehen,the sate temple of the Bangli kingdom,one of the finest temples in east Bali.


Last but not least,the Balinese believe that spirits dwell in every element of nature and many places are considered sacred,such as the nutmeg forest of Sangeh.

TEMPLES OF THE VILLAGE

A full-fledged village has to have at least three temples:

• Pura puseh,where the founders of the village are worshipped,always lies in the Kaja sphere,toward th mountains,so it lies on the highest spot in the village.

• Pura Desa,the village temple is built in the center of the village,where Lord Brahma the creator,is worshipped.

• Pura Dalem is considered as the temple for the dead.Lord Siwa,the Destroyer is worshipped here.



VISITING TEMPLE

When entering a temple,you are expected to be politely dressed.You normally need to wear a temple scarf-a sash tied loosely around your waist-and a sarong,long dress,or pants.Priests should be shown respect,particularly at festival.They’re the most important people and should therefore,be on the highest plane,Don’t put yourself higher than them by climbing up on a wall to take photographs.

Constantine from Canada

Constantine from Canada: “Thanks Gede for your efficient and informative tour of East Bali. We had a great day snorkeling and learning about the local culture, something we wouldn’t have seen or done on a regular tour.”

Denpasar Culture

Denpasar Culture
Denpasar, as the capital of Bali, has a heavy Balinese culture founded in a history of dance and religion and is a wondrous center of temples and musea. The Jagatnath Temple is Hindu and located near the Museum Bali. Known for its towering construction and peculiar shrine, Jagatnath swarms with tourists and worshippers alike. The Petilan Pengerebongan Temple hosts Ngerbong, a traditional ceremony involving a procession of people dressed as mythological creatures that happens once every 210 days, the length of the ancient Balinese year. The Temple of Maosaphit, located close to the Badung Market, boasts an incredibly old terracotta sculptural gem, an archeological find believed to date from the ancient Majapahit Kingdom of East Java. The Sakenan Temple is located on an island in southern Denpasar and is accessible by boat and car. Actually an array of temples, be sure to check out the lush mangrove trees and the beautiful panoramic views that are presented to the visitor of this destination. The Bali Museum, built in 1932, is a four-building complex that exhibits an endless number of artifacts pertaining to Bali’s prehistory, its heritage of dance and religion, and the gorgeous artwork it has created throughout all its past. The museum is open everyday, save Saturdays and holidays. At the Sanur beach, the Museum of Le Mayeur, though established by the Belgium artist Le Mayeur, is dedicated primarily to the paintings of the Balinese woman Nii Pollok, wife of Jackson Pollock who became famous for her dances and artworks. The Sidik Jari Museum is another arts center worth exploring, as is the Taman Budaya (or the Bali Art Center). There are also numerous palaces, sculptures, and other attractions to keep the Denpasar visitor busy enough for a lifetime.
Posted by Bali Driver at 8:22 AM 0 comments
Denpasar History
Residents of Denpasar know their city by its former name, Badung. Badung was colonized by the Dutch in the middle of the 1800’s—the local raja acquiescing in the hope that, through cooperation with incoming colonists, his district would be left relatively unhurt by Western imperialism; and this maneuver did suffice to keep Badung relatively independent for six decades.

However, in 1906, after a dispute between Balinese natives and Western capitalists, the Dutch prepared to take over administration of the region. Instead of submitting, the raja and his entire royal family committed mass suicide in the face of oncoming soldiers, who afterward proceeded to shoot and kill the remaining retinue and set fire to the palace.

This filial suicide was repeated in other parts of Indonesia in coming years, forcing international pressure on the Dutch to leave the islands, which they basically did around the outbreak of World War One.

In 1936, Badung changed its name to Denpasar.

Denpasar began to economically thrive after the Second World War, and the result has been an increase in people and, therefore, pollution. All the consequences stemming from this mixed blessing of prosperity and population have yet to be fully fall out.
Posted by Bali Driver at 8:18 AM 0 comments
Denpasar Getting Around
Traversing Denpasar is not too rough going, provided one has some means of transport: sightseeing on foot is rather impractical given the large distances that separate the capital’s numerous attractions from each other. Furthermore, given the high population density, sidewalks and streets tend to suffer from all sorts of traffic as well as both noise and environmental pollution. Driving is definitely a viable alternative. Rental car companies include Hertz, Thrifty, and Toyota Rental Car. And getting from the airport to Denpasar is a cinch; located just ten or so miles out near the resorts of Kuta, a car ride may be a better option than a lengthy (though beautiful) beach walk. Taxi service from the airport is facilitated by the Airport Taxi Service. If you hail a cab, prepare to haggle and be wise enough to insist on the use of a meter. Bus service also runs to and from the airport. Whatever option you think you will choose for getting around in Denpasar, be sure to prepare in advance by mapping out routes, choosing rental car companies, making reservations , and so on and so forth.

BALINESE ALTERNATIVE HEALING

BALINESE ALTERNATIVE HEALING
Balinese Life

Some Balinese Alternative Healings

Nature has been so kind to provide a variety of herbal ingredients. Their use offers another form of hope for recovery from illnesses beyond that offered by modern medical treatment. Similarly, through the heritage of hundreds of years, the Balinese have a rich tradition of healing. Both modern and traditional healings have, over time complemented each other.

Traditional healing is not intended to take over from the modern medical treatment. Balinese people consider that a medical problem should be resolved with medical solution, while the non-medical one should be treated with the alternative solution. When the patient does not recover by previous treatment and submits to his fate, he will be inclined to try any other possible treatments. In Bali, alternative healing is provided by traditional healer or balian.
This traditional healer has some specializations. Among them, there is one who specially offers healing service by referring to the traditional healing manuscripts like Taru Pramana (Soul of Plants), Usada Rare (Child Healthcare) and so forth. By and large, the healer recommends using herbs in the form of herbal drink (loloh), scrub (boreh) and simbuh or chewed ingredients that are then sprayed by mouth onto the aching point. This traditional manner has helped maintain people’s health and has been inherited from past generations.
Another specialization is balian apun or balian uwut (masseur). It provides a massage on the patient’s point of ache. With the help of self-prepared massage oil, the masseur will massage the muscle or set the broken bone. In most cases on the island, patients take medical treatment first and then resume with this traditional healing. In the case of fractures or broken bones, it’s proven that this combined treatment gives satisfying results.
If the problem seemingly is concerned with the unseen world, the Balinese regularly consult the balian tetakson or medium. With the help of sacred spirit (known as taksu) to empower him or her, the medium will look through his spiritual eyes. The result of this medium’s search may range from disturbance caused by spirits due to improper geomancy of the house or shrine, impurity at sanctum, help requested from the ancestral soul for any unpaid vow during his lifetime, to the conveyance of unseen material by others through the power of black magic. Having been told the result of the search, the medium will then inform the patient of the solution for the problem. It could be in the form of apologizing ritual, purificatory ritual or vow payment ritual and it is ended by providing holy water.
Meanwhile, there is also a healing practice run by balian paica or the healer using divinely endowed gift. Such gifts vary; they could be in the form of kris dagger, jewel, marine shells (lungsir) and so forth. The gifts are obtained through meditation at particular place or sanctum. However, they can also be delivered by an unknown person. Or the gift can also exist mysteriously on the shrine platform. For healing, the balian soaks the marine shell in blended palm oil; or soaks the jewel in clean water; or rubs the particular jewel on clay basin. This oil or water is intended for drinking.
Prior to beginning the healing practice, the balian always places the offering brought by the patient and informs his or her taksu about the intention and condition of existing patient. Hopefully, the patient could successfully find what it searches for. There is usually no fixed charge for this service.
Like modern medicine, Balinese healing also has something like ‘rules of conduct’ as mentioned in the book Usada Sari Sang Budakecapi. In essence, it carries two points, namely recommending diagnosing which patient may be healed and which one may not because the healer is suggested not to help the patient who is approaching their death. Violating this is considered to argue against his destiny. Secondly, it concerns sesari or voluntary money offering put on the oblation. Ideally, the healer should only take two thirds of the sesari and one third is given back to the patient after being presented to God. According to the book, infringement of these rules will cause the healer to lose his healing efficacy.
Alternative healings remain close to the heart of Balinese. Modern medical treatment takes priority and the traditional method follows. If they do not get satisfying results with the modern one, they will attempt to find some alternatives. Here, it does not the matter whether they ‘believe it or not’ but recovery should be continuously sought anywhere and in any way. (BTN/029)

Local Healing with a Global Reach

Balinese traditional healing relies not only on herbal medicine or oil scrubs but also pays close attention to environmental conditions, both visible and invisible. Environmental conditions here refers to the layout of house compounds as regulated on the local geomancy, asta kosala kosali, or it may be said to refer to Tri Hita Karana or three interdependent sources of bliss that consist of harmonious relationship between human beings, nature and God.

If this combination was described in a healthcare system, it would have something to do with the system of belief, genealogy, physical treatment and geomancy. The Balinese traditional healthcare system is performed by a balian. He or she works in accordance with Ayurveda, several lontar manuscripts that have been inherited from an indefinite and very long period, or divine inspiration. In addition, the balian sometimes also masters black magic, as it may be very beneficial in diagnosing and curing illnesses caused by such factors.
Just as in the modern medical profession, the Balinese traditional healing system also has ‘specialists’, giving patients a choice as to whom to consult for certain health problems. Firstly, there is balian usadha, a healer that performs a healing service based on the lontar (palm leaf manuscript). This expertise has been passed down through the ages.
Secondly, balian tetakson is a balian who obtained his expertise through divine inspiration (taksu). In many cases, a balian began his ‘career’ by peculiar accidents, like dreams, guidance of medium, or even near the end of life in critical illness. Such conditions then present him or her with only two choices, to live or die. As there is real interference from the third party or taksu, a balian of this kind is immediately popular even without promotion. As long as he obeys his ethics, particularly in charging sesari (a gift of money), his practice will continue to flourish.
Thirdly, the balian paica is a balian who performs a healing service by means of divinely bestowed gifts (paica). The paica can be in the form of various kinds of jewels, kris daggers, stones, perforated coins, oil or even undersea plants that are familiarly known as arungan articles. In practice, the balian will submerge certain paica in a glass of drinking water and the patient will quaff it.
Then there is also a balian manak. This balian gives a massage service for womb disorders, abortion (now illegal) and childbirth. In the decades before the 1970s, many balians of this kind were still in practice, more so in the hinterland. But, when the Puskesmas (Public Healthcare Centers) were introduced into the sub districts, the service gradually decreased and people received a new alternative. Governments realized that the introduction of this new medical service would not change people’s behaviors instantly. For this transition, many balian manaks got special training on childbirth treatments. So, they also supported the program of the government in providing a healthcare service and at the same time minimized the risk of their practice.
The fifth type ‘specialist’ is balian tenung. This balian has a supernatural power or magical insight to find lost items, environmental disorders or ancestral problems that can cause illness. The last two items are usually called kesisipan. For instance, when a patient suffers from intermittent stomach aches, when consulting this balian, it may be diagnosed as pemalinan due to disorder or impurity occurring in the house compound such as a hindrance at the entrance of the family temple or the lack of partitioning among certain shrines. If this happens, the family of the patient usually promises to tidy up such disorders if the patient recovers within 3 days. It will be followed up by putting offerings on the ‘suspected’ place and told to the invisible world (niskala). If it confirms, the patient usually recovers as soon as completing the offerings. And for this case, when consulting a medical doctor, the information will be that everything is all right. In the case of lost belongings or family members, people also take advantage of this service.
Balian tulang is the sixth type. He specializes in handling fractures or broken bones. Some balian tulangs nowadays also make use of x-rays to see the condition of fractures. Certainly, it is helpful information for them and makes it easier for them to perform treatment.
Seventh and lastly is balian sabuk. Sabuk literally means belt. This balian makes a belt or talisman and its variants that contain certain ingredients to generate magical powers. By applying this belt with certain terms and conditions, one may change one’s appearance to animals, bicycles, bade towers, or whatever for certain purposes. This power can also make someone ‘immune’ to sharp weapons or firearms. Sometimes, this is misused by certain people to carry out crime. As a matter of fact, this service is beneficial for killing fear and raising braveness, or protecting babies against the disturbance of black magic.
In these modern times where many sophisticated medical technologies have been invented and many more are being developed, there are still many Balinese who take advantage of the traditional healing performed by ‘specialists’ mentioned above. Why do many foreigners also consult a balian in Bali? It is believed that there is something akin to a ‘bad sector’ in the patient, like in computer terms, where it cannot be detected by modern science, as the problem is located in ‘virtual or invisible space’ and beyond their reach. So, traditional healing should take this portion to complement modern science and they should cooperate with each other.
Other products of traditional healing dedicated to beauty and wellness are now also offered in a spa package. Here, this traditional method (including the Oriental) mixes with Western methods. This treatment is available as amenities at most hotels in Bali. (BTN/*)

PRIMEVAL PAPERBACKS

Primeval Paperbacks



If the world’ s history of paper advance since the classical antiquity of the papyrus used by the Egyptians and Greeks,the heritage of Balinese literature lies in the antiquity of palmyra leaves.

These were the earliest forms of recordings,having become vaults of inherited knowledge,and Bali has its own wealth embodies in the dried and bound leaves of the Borassus flabellifer,collectively knows as lontar.From traditional medicinal recipes,vedic texts,local folklore and literature,to chronologies and royal genealogies,the lonta has become the treasure reference since ancient times.

As Balinese history has close ties to the Majapahit kingdom,the lontar is derived from the Javanese ron and tal,meaning ‘ leaf of the (namesake palm) tal tree’.Both names, rontal and lontal are used alternatively,perhaps among the exam[les of many cases of variations in local language.

Singaraja houses the only lontar museum in Indonesia,the Gedong Kirtya,Formerly as known as the Liefrinck Van Der Tuuk Library,named after the Dutch scientists F.A.Liefrinck and Dr.H.N Van Der Tuuk,who together with the then Raja Of Buleleng,I Gusti Putu Djelantik,gathered and preserved various lontar from Bali and Lombok and built alibrary for the collectionin 1928.The Gedong Kertya has since been a valuable source for study among Balinese scholars and international historians.

Lontar collection besides the thousands successfully collected and kept at the Gedong Kertya are also found in ather palce on the island,some having been subjected to looting during the Ducth colonial period,for example several boasting texts of the Ramayana epic have shown up in a collection at the Leiden University in Holand.The Central Library of Balinese Culture in Denpasar boasts a collection of over 1,700 copies,and a significant amount at the libraries of other university in Bali.A myriad of unaccounted lontar also reside within Balinese villages,particularly belonging to various personal collection,village temples,noble palaces,and Balian shamans.They are traditional kept in dedicated wooden boxes or keropak.Copies of ancient and rare specimens are always made to anticipate loss or deterioration;such works and their contents are regarded as priceless.

Leaf strips are bound between two narrow cover,sometimes pieces of bamboo or wood –thus ‘hardbacks’.Versus paper,the relatively thick leaves of lontar are nor so easily damaged by insect or climatic changes.This durability ha made it possible for them to last for centuries.

Old manuscripts are found to be in Old Balinese,Old Javenese and Sanskrit using Kawi alphabets.As with modern books,there are also illustrative works found in lontar form.Written and drawn using a traditional small sharp knife called a temutik,the final leaf page is rubbed with charcoal,burnt candlenut oil or other traditional darkening agents rendering it readable.Often lemongrass oil is applied to ensure its resilience against insects.These illustrative or ‘comic strips’ are known as a separate and special art form called prasi .

FISHERMAN GROW IN HARMONY WITH TOURISM

Fishermen Grow in Harmony with Tourism

Expansive sea and charming white and black sand beaches surround the tiny island Bali.In addition,the coconut palms along the beach enhance and beautify the view.This condition generates a rich treasure for tourism and fishermen.So,discover and explore this gorgeous island and its many splendors that are waiting,just for you…..

This potential is further embellished by some traditional fishing spots where fishermen are based throughout the island.Some Balinese people rely on catching fish at sea for their livelihood while others catch fish as aside job whilst also tending their rice fields or plantation.Uniquely,they still use traditional wooden Jukung outriggers.To move it,fishermen may apply paddle,sail or motor.Non-fishermen also get advantage from this workplace.For instance,when fishermen are coming ashore,these poeple would happily offer assistance.They can help bring along the fish basket and fishnet,drag the jukung ashore and so forth.In short,there are some interesting activities to see through the day.

As a religious community,they have also established a traditional organization for fishermen called Bendega.Like other Balinese traditional organization such as Subak ( irrigation cooperative),these fishermen also have temple of profession or swagina called pura segara or temple of the sea.It’s meant to organize their fellow fishermen and to make their worship easier.Basically they wish to invoke welfare and safety in undertaking their livelihood in the sea.This reflect the concept of balancing the ore et labora or praying and laboring.

Bali The Performing Arts

Bali The performing Arts


When the first Western settlers found Bali, they were awed by the unique, mystical art forms and music in this island oasis such as Kecak dancing and gamelan music. On the island, Balinese consider art to be a natural activity, as most performers are peasants who work in the fields during the day and perform during the night. Dynamic and agile, Balinese dance is dramatic, each dance with a different story, performed often by candlelit at the foot of a crumbling, magnificent temple. Dance is a part of life and often times the whole village will partake in the performance as these dances are performed according to strict tradition. Many of the dances tell stories involving the Ramayana epic, battling the ubiquitous themes of love, death and war. The Barong dance is accompanied by Gong Kebyar - an orchestra formed by a group of gamelan instruments and various metal gongs and symbols. The Barong dance is the classic story of good, the lion-like Barong conquering over evil, a witch Rangda .


The Kecak dance is one of the most famous, aesthetically impressive dances in Bali, although it is not a traditional dance. Created in the 1930s, this dance is not accompanied by traditional music. Instead, the dance group is accompanied by a large crowd of young shirtless men, with flowers in their hair who recite “kechak-ke-chack” over and over at various rhythms throughout the dance.

The crisply percussive gamelan music which accompanies most Balinese dances shares their vitality and agility. The Gamelan are musical instruments with five notes forged from copper and bronze. Each village that can afford it has their own gamelan orchestra. On any night in Bali, tourists can amble around a village, find a quiet porch for a soothing drink and listen to the sound of the gamelan orchestra radiating from the village " banjar " (meeting place) in the background.
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Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Bali Architecture

Bali Architecture

Balinese architecture is not only aesthetically impressive with wood carvings, majestic stone gates and ornate Indian influence engravings, Balinese architecture also has strong spiritual symbolism. Many temples, rice barns and other structures are built according to traditional Balinese rules, called Asta Kosala Kosali, which traditionally were written down in lontar palm books and interpreted by traditional architects called Undagi. This leads to very distinctive designs and architectural congruence throughout Bali’s villages, which all delicately interwoven with the natural surroundings.

In Balinese building, one of the most common features is the Bale, which is an open pavilion with a thatched roof and no walls. The Bale represents the Hindu-Balinese universe. The roof is the 'gods' section, the body is the 'human' section, and the base is the 'demons' section

Other impressively symbolic architectural sites in Bali are its palaces. Since in classical 19th century Bali, the Balinese believes their king was divine, his residence was the puri - a replica of the cosmos and thus a sacred symbol. Balinese palaces are always square, walled, and courts within courts.

In Bali, all buildings have to be brought to life and ceremonially purified in a ceremony called Melaspas before they can be lived in. It is important that all materials – such as the wood, stone and thatch, which have been cut down and killed for the construction, are, as it were, re-incarnated. During this ceremony, many offerings and gifts are made, including animal sacrifices.