Bali aims to be campaign-free zone for Nyepi

Ni Komang Erviani, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar | Election Watch | The Grand Council of Customary Villages (MUDP) has strongly urged all legislative candidates and political parties in Bali to remove their campaign paraphernalia lining the streets by March 30, as Balinese Hindus across the island will be marking Nyepi, the Day of Silence, the following day. The council, an umbrella organization for nearly 1,500 desa pekraman (customary villages), will be sending letters to all relevant parties, including political parties as well as Bali’s General Elections Commission (KPUD) and Elections Monitoring Agency (Bawaslu) regarding the matter. “We hope that all campaign materials will be taken down to maintain the solemn atmosphere of Nyepi,” MUDP chairman Jero Gede Suwena Putus Upadesha said in a meeting at the KPUD on Friday. The meeting was also attended by representatives from several political parties and their legislative candidates. Nyepi, which falls on March 31, marks the start of the Lunar Year in the Balinese Caka calendar. On the day, Balinese Hindus perform the four abstinences, which comprise amati geni (abstaining from lighting fires or lights); amati karya (abstaining from work); amati lelungan (abstaining from traveling outside one’s home); and amati lelanguan (abstaining from leisure activities). The whole island becomes a quiet, peaceful sanctuary on Nyepi. On the day before Nyepi, devotees will perform the sacrificial ritual, Tawur Kesanga. Tawur Kesanga is carried out at several levels, starting from the highest at the island’s mother temple, Pura Besakih, down to the regencies, villages, hamlets and households. The ritual is aimed at strengthening relations between humans, the environment and God. Tawur Kesanga ends in the afternoon and is followed in the evening by ngerupuk, a street parade with village youth groups carrying bamboo torches and ogoh-ogoh (giant effigies in the form of terrifying creatures). Ngerupuk aims to ward off bhuta kala (malevolent spirits and evil forces). Suwena said he hoped all legislative candidates and political parties would respect the rituals by removing their paraphernalia from March 30 through March 31. “Please give a chance to Hindu devotees to perform their worship in a solemn, peaceful and calm environment. It is only temporary. After Nyepi, they can put back all their campaign materials,” he said. He added that the MUDP would be grateful if political parties voluntarily removed their campaign materials by March 28, when the melasti purification ritual would be performed to mark the beginning of Nyepi. During the melasti procession, Hindus take their pretima (sacred objects) to beaches, lakes or springs to be cleansed. Suwena said the reason behind the removal request was that campaign materials could trigger conflict, which could destroy the peace of Nyepi. “The state has acknowledged Nyepi by declaring it a public holiday. The world has also acknowledged Nyepi by accepting the local custom of closing Ngurah Rai International Airport on that day. We really hope that all legislative candidates and political parties will also respect the day,” he said. He conveyed his appreciation for the agreement made between the political parties and the KPUD to halt campaigning from March 28 to April 1 to honor the Nyepi celebrations. Secretary of the Golkar Party’s local chapter, Komang Purnama, said Golkar would respect the MUDP’s request. “We will instruct our candidates to take down their campaign materials,” he said. Ketut Ridet from the Democratic Party also conveyed his support. “We have already told our candidates to take down their campaign materials three days before Nyepi to honor the blessed day,” he said.

Island Of Bali

Bali is located at the westernmost section of the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia. To Bali’s west lies the island of Java and to its east is Lombok. From east to west, Bali is only about 95 miles (153 km) wide and 69 miles (112 km) long with a land area of approximately 2,175 square miles (5,632 sq. km). Coral reefs surround the island of Bali, creating an idyllic vacation area for tourists seeking scuba diving and snorkeling. Bali is a veritable paradise with white sand beaches in the southern part of the island and black sand beaches in the north, drawing tourist from around the world. One of Bali’s striking characteristics is the major religion of the island. Approximately 93 percent of its three million people practice Balinese Hinduism. This fact is extremely relevant because Indonesia, with a population of 237 million, has the largest Muslim population in the world. Anthropologists believe the island of Bali has been populated since prehistoric times. The first people on the island likely migrated from Taiwan through Maritime Southeast Asia (Malay Archipelago). Scientists have found human-made stone tools and earthenware vessels on the island dating more than 3,000 years old. The earliest written records of the island’s history are stone inscriptions from the 9th century. Though little is known about Bali in particular around this time, it is believed that seafaring traders from India brought Hinduism to the Indonesian archipelago. From 1293 to around 1500, an archipelagic empire called the Majapahit (mah-JAP-ah-hit) based on the island of Java ruled much of the Malay Archipelago. Even as the Majapahit Empire began to collapse into disputing sultanates, the dynasty in Bali maintained control on the island. For this reason, many of the intellectuals of the Majapahit relocated to Bali, including Niratha, a priest credited with introducing many of the complexities of Balinese religion to the island. Also around this time, many artists, dancers, musicians and actors fled to Bali, thus generating an explosion of culture there. Today, Bali is renowned for its varied and highly developed art forms. Most Indonesian islands increasingly embraced Islam and it became the dominant religion in Java and Sumatra by the end of the 16th century. Bali, on the other hand, retained its Hindu roots. Balinese Hinduism permeates nearly every aspect of traditional life in Bali. The religion is a combination of Hindu influences from mainland Southeast Asia and South Asia and existing local beliefs. Rooted in Indian Hinduism and Buddhism, Balinese Hinduism also incorporates many animistic and magical traditions of Bali’s indigenous people. The religion of Bali is deeply connected with art and ritual, while the Islam of Indonesia is embedded with scripture, law and belief. The followers of Balinese Hinduism are particularly known for their graceful and gentle behavior. Bali is the largest tourist destination in Indonesia. The tourism boom began in the 1970s and helped bring marked improvements to roads, health, education and telecommunications. Tourism is Bali’s largest industry, making it one of Indonesia’s wealthiest areas. Despite its perceived remoteness, Bali has been impacted by the same Islamic extremism that affects other areas of the world. When militants bombed popular Bali nightclub area in 2002 and tried again in a shopping area in 2005, the tourism industry initially suffered each time, but tourists’ visits quickly rebounded. Some Islamic extremists apparently view Bali as a decadent non-Muslim society in the midst of a predominantly Muslim region. The very fact is, however, that Bali is beautiful, modern, sophisticated, wealthy, exciting and recently relatively safe, making it a desired tourist destination of world renown. Sources: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6788699.ece ; and http://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/bali/history

Bali International Airport closed for Nyepi

Bali International Airport closed for Nyepi Those planning to travel to the fabled island of Bali towards the end of March, please note that the entire island will come to a complete standstill for the Balinese New Year of Nyepi which this year falls on Monday, 31st March 2014. To allow all to follow the prescribed rituals, all traffic all over Bali will come to a complete halt. No planes will be allowed to land or take off for 24 hours. All shops are closed and no one is allowed on the beach or on the streets. Governor of Bali, Made Mangku Pastika, has sent an official announcement letter to four related ministries (Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Foreign Affair, Ministry of Domestic Affair, and Ministry of Communication) regarding the temporary closure of Ngurah Rai International Airport on the respected day. “The letter has been sent early (dated 30th December 2013) with the expectation that it can be distributed to all related parties, both nationally and the international world” said the Head of the Public Relations Bureau of the Provincial Government of Bali, I Ketut Teneng on Denpasar, Tuesday 25th February as reported by bisniswisata.co. With the announcement, it is expected that both domestic and international airlines will not schedule flights during that day. However, although this is a public holiday for the whole of Indonesia, outside the island of Bali, all air, land and sea traffic as well as other activities continue as normal. Nyepi is the ritual of the Hindus of Bali to welcome the New Year based on the traditional Saka Calendar. For, contrary to other cultures that celebrate New Year with vivacious festivities, the pinnacle of Balinese New Year is a day of complete Silence. Hence the name Nyepi, meaning “to keep silent” in the local language, which falls on the day following the dark moon of the spring equinox. Nyepi is a day fully dedicated to connect oneself more closely with God (Hyang Widi Wasa) through prayers and at the same time as a day of self introspection to decide on values, such as humanity, love, patience, kindness, and others, that should be kept forever. As a day reserved for self-reflection anything that may interfere with that purpose is strictly prohibited. Nyepi mandates a day of absolute quiet, based on the four precepts of Catur Brata: · Amati Geni: Prohibiting the lighting of fires, the use of lighting or satisfying pleasurable human appetites. · Amati Karya: Prohibiting all forms of physical work other than those dedicated to spiritual cleansing and renewal. · Amati Lelungan: Prohibiting movement or travel; requiring people to stay within their homes. · Amati Lelangunan: Prohibiting all forms of entertainment, recreations or general merrymaking. The sudden silence comes after the eve of noisy festivities on the beaches of Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Seminyak and others with parades of giant puppets called “ogoh-ogoh” accompanied by clanging gongs and other percussion instruments. At the end of the festival the ogoh-ogoh are torched and are totally engulfed in flames. Although Nyepi is primarily a Hindu holiday, non-Hindu residents of Bali observe the day of silence as well, out of respect for their fellow citizens. Even tourists are not exempt; although free to do as they wish inside their hotels, no one is allowed on the beaches or streets, and the airport remains closed for the entire day. The only exceptions granted are for emergency vehicles carrying those with life-threatening conditions and women about to give birth. There will be local watchmen known as pecalang to ascertain that this rule is obeyed. At night, all lights will have to be turned off. Hotels will close all curtains that no ray of light shines to the outside. All sound and music indoors should be held to its lowest volume.

Sanur Beach

Sanur Holidays & Travel Guide

Despite being Bali's oldest beachside town, Sanur remains an upmarket area with an abundance of holiday resorts and restaurants. Sanur features a wide range of natural, cultural and historical attractions while still offering the fantastic shopping opportunities and stunning beaches that Bali is renowned for. The laidback atmosphere of this region has made it one of Bali's popular holiday destinations for visitors wanting to get away from the bustling party atmosphere of central Bali. The attractions of Sanur are centred around rich experiences and the vibrant culture. The Le Mayeur Museum is dedicated to the life works of famous Belgian impressionist Adrian Jean Le Mayeur who used to call Sanur home. The area is also known for the colourful giant kites that decorate the skies and are celebrated each July at the Annual International Kite Festival. Traditional Balinese kites of up to 10 metres long are handmade and flown in the competition by teams from local villages. If you aren't visiting during July you can still see the teams practicing flying their kites throughout the year. The Pura Blanjong (Blanjong Temple) is one of Sanur's most sacred temples and is a must see on any Bali holiday. Home to the stone pillar bearing the Prasati Blanjong historical inscription by a 10th century Javanese king, who is said to have ordained the first formal government in Bali. This is Bali's oldest known artifact and is particularly significant to the local people, hence the temple's grand scale.

Kuta Holiday

Kuta, Bali's most popular holiday destination, is situated in southern Bali and is renowned for its fantastic surf beaches. Offering a multitude of accommodation options including family friendly, luxury and budget hotels, all resorts are conveniently located within walking distance to shopping, dining and entertainment. Kuta is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife and party reputation which draws throngs of young travellers on holidays every year. Probably one of the best beachfronts in all of Bali, the 5 km of beach that stretch along the island are immaculate and quite safe. This is also the best place to view Bali's breathtaking sunsets. Bali's top 3 activities are shopping, surfing and partying but there are also a great range of tours and attractions available. If you're up for a bit of adventure, Kuta is a surfing hot spot and with no dangerous rocks or coral, it's also a great place to learn. However if that sounds like a bit too much effort, Kuta is positively packed with day spas and enjoys some of the most competitive prices in Bali. Relaxing aromatherapy massages, body exfoliations and refreshing spa treatments are just a few dollars and are an excellent way to unwind while on holidays. Bali is famous for its discount holiday shopping but Kuta is the island's biggest and best when it comes to surfwear, sportswear and big brands. Some of the biggest names are available at heavily discounted prices 30-50% cheaper than anywhere else. Bali has a tropical monsoon climate and as it is located just south of the equator, the weather is generally fairly mild. Divided into two distinct seasons, November to March is the wet season while the weather is drier and therefore more pleasant for holiday travellers from April to October. Maximum summer temperatures reach 30°C (86°F) with sea breezes keeping things cooler, especially at night. With a dense population, Kuta is a bustling island best navigated on foot and in metred taxis. Motorbikes are also available for hire and if you're feeling game, you can also hitch a ride on the back of a local scooter. Known as ojeks in the native tongue, these scooters are a quick and cost effective way to get around the island and while providing an authentic Bali experience, these scooters aren't for everyone.

Bali

There are an estimated 20,000 temples (pura) on the island, each of which holds festivals (odalan) at least twice yearly. With many other auspicious days throughout the year there are always festivities going on. The large island-wide festivals are determined by two local calendars. The 210 day wuku or Pawukon calendar is completely out of sync with the western calendar, meaning that it rotates wildly throughout the year. The lunar saka (caka) calendar roughly follows the western year. Funerals (pitra yadnya) are another occasion of pomp and ceremony, when the deceased (often several at a time) are ritually cremated in extravagantly colorful rituals (ngaben). Galungan is a 10 day festival which comes around every 210 days and celebrates the death of the tyrant Mayadenawa. Gods and ancestors visit earth and are greeted with gift-laden bamboo poles called penjor lining the streets. The last day of the festival is known as Kuningan. Nyepi, or the Hindu New Year, also known as the day of absolute silence, is usually in March or April (next on March 23, 2012). If you are in Bali in the days preceding Nyepi, you will see amazing colorful giants (ogoh ogoh) being created by every banjar. On the eve of Nyepi, the ogoh ogoh are paraded through the streets, an amazing sight which is not to be missed. There are good reasons to avoid Nyepi as well, but for many visitors these will be outweighed by the privilege of experiencing such a unique festival. On Nyepi absolutely everything on the island is shut down between 6AM on the day of the new year and 6AM the following morning. Tourists are confined to their hotels and asked to be as quiet as possible for the day. After dark, light must be kept to a bare minimum. No one is allowed onto the beaches or streets. The only exceptions granted are for real emergency cases. The airport remains closed for the entire day, which means no flights into or out of Bali for 24 hr. Ferry harbours are closed as well. As the precise date of Nyepi changes every year, and isn’t finally set until later in the year before, flights will be booked by airlines for this day in case you book early. When the date is set, and as it gets closer, the airlines will alter their bookings accordingly. This may mean that you have to alter your accommodation bookings if your flight has been bought forward or back to cater for Nyepi day. All national public holidays in Indonesia apply in Bali, although Ramadan is naturally a much smaller event here than in the country's Muslim regions.

Great Holiday

“Great holiday” 5 of 5 starsReviewed November 9, 2013 NEW

We just came back from our 4D3N holiday in Bali. We decided to hire Gede as our driver as recommended by a friend. And indeed he was superb. We were very very happy and satisfied with Gede services. He was punctual, helpful, friendly and helped us to get good bargains on the activities that we wanted to do. He was also helpful in trying to find information for us. Besides that, he has a good knowledge of his country, religion and culture. He told us stories when we went for sight-seeing. He even went the extra mile to take pictures for us with his own camera. To sum it all up, our holiday couldn't be better without him. His service made our holiday to Bali a memorable one and we definitely going to Bali again with his service. I strongly recommend him to those who want to go to Bali and wish to find a driver. You won't regret taking him as your driver. Visited November 2013

Sanur Beach

Greet the sun as she gradually rises from below the horizon radiating the most brilliant colors over Sanur Beach, while the soft white sands embrace the oncoming waves: a perfect picture of a beautiful sunny morning, where nature displays her fascinating features at the tranquil, laid back retreat of Sanur, east of Denpasar, capital of the fabled island of Bali. Located just 25 minutes from the international airport, 30 minutes from the Kuta area, and 15 minutes from downtown Denpasar, Sanur is renowned as Bali's first beach resort and is actually where the early tourism industry grew on Bali. Sanur is also recognized as the largest village in Bali where its people - as with the rest of east Bali- are particularly friendly, welcoming and accommodating. Despite the locals’ activities and the abundance of restaurants and accommodation, it is surprising how un-crowded and peaceful Sanur is. There are many activities to try as well as beach resorts and restaurants but these are all spread along a long coastline, creating a secluded feeling where the action goes unnoticed to sunbathers and loungers on the unspoiled beaches that continue to maintain the traditional Balinese feel. Sanur beach is a long stretch of beautiful white sand lined with palm trees that shade dreamy footpaths, market stalls and relaxed beach cafes. Along the beach are traditional Balinese Bale (raised shaded open verandas for lying down or relaxing). Most are no longer in use although a few are sometimes occupied by fishermen who fish in these waters. The waters of Sanur are protected by a long string of offshore reefs, creating large, warm shallow, safe lagoons that are perfectly clear and excellent for swimming, snorkeling and a whole array of water sports. Surfers will be pleased to know that the reefs around Sanur produce some of the best waves in the world in the right conditions although they can be very shallow at low tide. But there are more consistent waves beyond the reefs good for surfing. Sanur is also the launching pad for visitors who want to dive and explore the splendors of the nearby island of Nusa Lembongan. Nusa Lembongan is approximately 8 square km in size, and is one of three neighbouring islands, the others being much the larger Nusa Penida and tiny Nusa Ceningan. Many areas around the island are good for diving and snorkeling, with abundant marine life and healthly corals. Surfing can get a bit crowded, but the waves are good. There are several white sand beaches away from the main centers which are virtually never crowded. Sanur Beach was first introduced by A.J. Le Mayeur, a renowned Belgian impressionist painter who arrived in Bali in 1932 and soon immersed himself in the culture of the island. He married a noted Balinese Legong dancer named Ni Polok and made her his model. Here he created some of his famous masterpieces. Today, the house of Le Mayeur has become a famous museum where visitors can view some of his artworks and gain an insight into the romantic aura of the time when Le Mayeur was one of a handful of expatriates. As a place where tourism first flourished in Bali, Sanur has some of Balis’ historic hotels. Built in 1965, the Inna Grand Bali , formerly called Bali Beach Hotel, was the first five star and the only high rise hotel in Bali. After its construction a new law came into force where in Bali no hotel may be built higher than a coconut tree. Here are also the Sanur Beach Hotel (Initialy called Hotel Garuda) and the Bali Hyatt. All of these hotels still operate until today with that certain touch of modernity that offers that nostalgic ambience for those who knew Bali decades ago before the onrush of tourism. But even today Sanur still maintains that pleasant ambience with places shaded by high and age old trees that continue to radiate the serene magic of Sanur.

Tirta Empul

For more than a thousand years, Balinese worshipers have been drawn to Pura Tirta Empul, whose sacred spring is said to have been created by Indra and to have curative properties. The tradition continues almost unchanged at the temple today. History Legend has it that the sacred spring was created by the god Indra. His forces had been poisoned by Mayadanawa, so he pierced the earth to create a fountain of immortality to revive them. An inscription dates the founding of a temple at the site to 926 AD. Ever since - for more than a thousand years - the Balinese have come to bathe in the sacred waters for healing and spiritual merit. What to See The Tirta Empul Temple includes the traditional Balinese split gate along with shrines to Shiva, Vishnu, Braham, Mt. Batur, and Indra. There is also a large open pavilion in the main courtyard, useful for relaxing in the shade. But the main attraction here is a long rectangular pool carved of stone, filled with koi and fed by the sacred spring via 12 fountains. Worshippers first make an offering at the temple, then climb into the main pool to bathe and pray. Many collect the holy water in bottles to take home. Nearby there are two smaller pools fed by the spring. Overlooking the temple on a hill above is a suprisingly modern building: the Government Palace, built in 1954. Originally a residence for Dutch officials, it was later used by former President Soekarno during his frequent trips to Bali. Pura Tirta Empul is located in the village of Tampak Siring, accessible by public transportation from Ubud. The souvenir stands outside the temple specialize in the local craft, carved bone jewelry.

Excelent guide

“Excellent guide” 5 of 5 starsReviewed September 27, 2013 NEW Dewa accompanied us during our trips as Gede couldn't make it. A word to describe Dewa would be, Excellent. Dewa is always ahead of time, friendly, has good command of English, attentive to our many requests and has many stories to tell about Bali, Hinduism etc. During our trip to Lovina, he went the extra miles to prebook the dolphin sightseeing transport, at a competitive price. Similarly, he went the extra miles to accommodate our requests to reschedule certain activities, stayed with us for quite late at night, used different roads at different times so that we get to see more of Bali and many others attention to providing us with an exquisite taste of what Bali has to offers. As for Dewa, our arrangement was made via email and he was always quick to reply, and helpful in suggesting itineraries. I highly recommend their service! Visited September 2013

Good Service

“Good Service” 4 of 5 starsReviewed September 22, 2013 NEW Gede was recommended by people in tripadvisor and after exchange a few email we book him on our second day of our trip. Before we left he did told me if he is not available he will sent his brother to bring us around and I'm fine since he is as good as him. On that morning I was abit worried if he will turn up since we only book him thru email. After breakfast his brother Kutut Soma turn up punctually, he is neat and driving a big and comfortable car. Throughout the whole trip he patiently explain to us the culture of bali, he speak good english. He is very accommodating and patient, he do not force us to those place we do not wish to go and during meals time he will wait patiently for my 6 years old daughter who usually take a longer time to eat. I will definaetly use him or Gede again on our next trip to Bali

Highly recommended

“Highly Recommended” 5 of 5 starsReviewed September 14, 2013 My first trip with my parent (who can't walk that well) and my family (with one 3 year old). Gede was recommended by my friend. I am glad that I chose Gede's service. He is a native Balinese who speaks very good English. He is very knowledgeable and able to talk about Bali's culture during the driving. Not every driver can do so (My sister who went there the same days with different group didn't enjoy this kind of service) I asked Gede to suggest the places to visit given the direction that I want to go. As we go along, we always adjust the schedule to our liking (since my parent couldn't walk that well and we spend long hours in eating with the kid). And, he is very good driver and know the road very well. Highly Recommended, will definitely use his services again next time if going to Bali. Visited September 2013

Live your dreams

“Live Your Dreams” 5 of 5 starsReviewed September 9, 2013 NEW Gede was the appointed driver for my Bali trip with my friends. He had always been punctual with his beaming bright face greeting us while we're still having our breakfast. An extremely knowledgeable man in the Balinese culture, food, roads and sites of attractions with incomparable wisdom. I'm very grateful for his advises as it helped protect us from unwanted situations. A man with an open heart, open mind who graciously shares his homeland to those he meets. I have to say that it had always been a memorable time with Gede - from tourist attraction sites to Balinese food to spending time with the Balinese community. We even enjoyed a well spent day at the Sanur Kite Festival where his sons & their friends were competing, and he graciously shared his life as a Balinese with us. He have a strong command in the English language and is ever ready to respond to any questions. At times, he adds his touch of humor that would brighten the room (in this sense, the van). The pricing provided is reasonable and he is extremely accommodating, providing superb advice in the desired destination. Be it for sight-seeing, shopping or learning about the culture / religion. His services have been a blessing to my trip in Bali. I have to say, I went to Bali for a retreat but I returned with new friends & memorable memories. Visited August 2013

All the reviewers did not lie

“All the reviewers did not lie!” 5 of 5 starsReviewed September 7, 2013 NEW This was my first time heading to Bali. Gede was recommended by my friend, when I mentioned that I would like to hire a driver in Bali for ease of travel. I was very pleased with Gede, as he has excellent English and mild-mannered. I was never pressured to do anything that I don't want to. It was very convenient to have someone who is native Balinese to plan your itinerary. All you have to do is tell him your preference, be it sightseeing or shopping or food hunting. Just to let you have an idea of Gede's excellent services, I told him I want to shoot sunrise, and Gede told me I had to set off at 5am. He did not once indicate that there will be a surcharge due to an early start, but instead he planned my entire day, starting from 5am. I was very happy that my day went superbly well, being able to shoot sunrise and still do all the things that Gede planned for the day. He is very flexible, punctual and professional. For the price I paid, I think it was a great bargain. Since I got back from my Bali trip, I have been raving about Gede's services to all my family and friends. When I go back to Bali again, I will definitely get Gede's services again. Visited August 2013

My First Bali Experience

“My First BALI Experience, 29/08/13-04/09/13” 5 of 5 starsReviewed September 5, 2013 NEW Been living in Andover, UK for the last four years and recently returned to Malaysia. Excitement on my mind! The experience further enhanced by Suyasa Gede's professionalism, knowledge, wisdom and information of the beautiful and unique Balinese culture and many places of interest. Gede was highly recommended to us from his previous excellent services rendered. He communicates easily in English and has a high regard for what you would like to experience during your stay. Inform him of your wishes in good time, and he will give his suggestions for you to make your own decisions. Get to know the subtle intricacies of Bali first-hand from Gede, before your visit. You'll be pleasantly surprised. An open mind will lead you to discover the charms and simplicity of the humble Balinese people and their unique traditions. Gede is a loving father to three children and wonderful husband; happy to share stories of his family life and the customs of the people of Bali. My Bali adventure with Gede and six other friends, has given me a real spiritual sense of the term dramatic and romantic insight of this serene country. There is so much of Love everywhere we travelled to; especially heightened by the inter-mingling of the different religions practiced peacefully and harmoniously, side-by-side, within the people, their individuality and environment. I am simply amazed and the WOW-Factor is still ringing high in my person. My gratitude to Gede and the people of Bali, for bringing to Life of all that I have read of Bali. I highly recommend Gede as your Personal Tour Guide cum Driver. Am already nurturing and planning another trip back. I trust Gede to suggest other places of interest that I missed out on this trip, due to time constraint. May the Universe bless me with this request of other adventures to experience next year - with Gede as our Guide and wonderful friends to share with. God and Goddess Bless...