Firstly, let me introduce myself… My name is GEDE SUYASA and most people just call me GEDE which is pronounced like the English greeting ‘G’day’. With this blog, We offer my clients personally customised tours with each itinerary especially designed to your interests and tastes. Whether it is sightseeing, culture, art, shopping or just cruising around Bali exploring parts of the island you have never seen, I am happy to ensure your journey is relaxing and comfortable for your needs.
Monday, May 5, 2014
Bucket List trip - Amazing Cultural Experience- Best driver rate”
“Bucket List trip - Amazing Cultural Experience- Best driver rate”
5 of 5 starsReviewed May 4, 2014 NEW
I'm 21 and Gede was my mom's and my driver for my senior spring break . It was an amazing cultural experience and a wonderful way to end my collegiate years. I'm so thankful to have spent the week with my mom and Gede Driving, exploring one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Gede was the best thing that could've happened to us during that trip! His rates were very fair and he worked so hard to make sure we had the most enjoyable experience possible. If you're planning on making a trip to Bali, make sure to hire him!
From jungles to hidden beaches to temples to hot springs, Gede was ready to take us anywhere! One of my favorite experiences was the Ulu Watu temple, pictured above. This is a Hindu temple located atop gorgeous cliffs and it's filled with monkeys! At the entrance you can buy bananas, which the
monkeys will eagerly chow down on right in front of you. They are the most adorable little things ever and I really want a baby monkey.
At the temple we witnessed the Kecak dance, which uses only the sounds made by a large group of men while other characters perform a dance. No instruments or singing, just sound. The performance occurs in a stadium overlooking these stunning cliffs just as the bright sun sets into smoldering shades of orange, pink and yellow.
The thing I love most about traveling is learning about the different cultures around the world. There are so many things we take forgranted, especially in America. In Bali, they are undeniably the nicest people I've ever met and they ALWAYS have a smile on their face. Sellers will bug you to death and make a bargain that's hard to deny, but never once did they ask for something without giving you something in return. That really impressed me and I think it truly speaks to the amazing character of these people and their religion.
I know this will be a trip that I never forget and I'm so blessed to have had the privilege to take this vacation "
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Saving the Bali starling
Saving the Bali starling
Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post, Gilimanuk, Bali | Environment | Tue, April 22 2014, 12:43 PM
The jalak bali is a beautiful white bird with blue decorative skin around the eyes.
As an endemic species of Bali symbolizing purity and chastity, it is also called the Bali mynah, the Bali starling, Rothschild’s mynah and the Rothschild starling. Scientifically named Leucopsar rothschildi Stresemann, the Balinese call it curik bali or jalak bali. The bird was first discovered in 1911 by German ornithologist Erwin Stresemann in the northwestern part of Bali. As monitored by a team of the Association of Bali Mynah Conservationist (APCB) and Ecosystem Control officers at Brumbun Bay Resort, West Bali National Park (TNBB), the birds like to flock together with sri gunting (ashy drongo), because these song birds are more aggressive toward eagles, which are the natural enemies of curik bali. Curik bali’s presence in the forest attracts attention, with its white feathers making it easy to spot. To avoid detection by eagles, they often perch on branches of pilang (Acacia trees), which have white bark that can camouflage them. For the protection of curik bali in nature, in 2004 the APCB, whose members comprise executives of zoos in Indonesia, the Forestry Ministry, bird researchers from the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) and members of the Indonesian Wildlife Conservation Forum (Foksi), conducted a survey in the TNBB to ascertain the causes of world agencies’ failure in curik bali conservation. It turned out that the failure was due to illegal logging and curik bali poaching, while the park itself was under threat and unable to optimally support the threatened species. “Since 2004, we’ve been trying to encourage the captive breeding of this endangered species by involving local people in conservation activities, which is backed by a Forestry Ministry decree permitting the public, particularly the community around the TNBB, to keep and breed curik bali,” said the head of the APCB, Tony Sumampau, when monitoring the birds in the park in Gilimanuk, Bali. In 2007, captive breeding activities in the TNBB area spread. The price of a curik bali was initially about Rp 15 million (US$1,310), which later decreased to Rp 6 million. The birds bred under such conditions are not considered ideal due to having been inbred. For better genetic quality, the APCB has sought new stock and collected 96 bird samples tested by LIPI specialists. LIPI curik bali researcher Noerdjito said the birds could be genetically improved in captive breeding. Fledglings should be selected for cross breeding to obtain the best offspring. However, the birds are generally released without this happening. “I’ve repeatedly notified the TNBB of the need to select the young curik bali, but the message may not have been properly received due to frequent post transfers, while the birds kept in several zoos in Indonesia should also be cross-bred for their best broods,” explained Noerdjito. Besides the Ainun Yaqqin Foundation being located some 4 kilometers from the TNBB, 17 curik bali breeders also live in Sumber Kalmpok village, Buleleng regency. They belong to the Curik Bali Conservationists Group (KPCB) of Manuk Jegeg. Based on a consensus between the breeders and the APCB, 10 percent of the birds bred are released. However, the breeders are disappointed by the difficulty in securing a license to sell curik bali. “We breed curik bali the same way we raise our cattle. We appeal for distribution license facilitation to enable us to sell the birds and buy insects and fruit for the young broods. We applied for a license from the Natural Resources Conservation Agency [BKSDA] a year ago but have had no response,” said Gusti, a breeder from Sumber Klampok.
As an endemic species of Bali symbolizing purity and chastity, it is also called the Bali mynah, the Bali starling, Rothschild’s mynah and the Rothschild starling. Scientifically named Leucopsar rothschildi Stresemann, the Balinese call it curik bali or jalak bali. The bird was first discovered in 1911 by German ornithologist Erwin Stresemann in the northwestern part of Bali. As monitored by a team of the Association of Bali Mynah Conservationist (APCB) and Ecosystem Control officers at Brumbun Bay Resort, West Bali National Park (TNBB), the birds like to flock together with sri gunting (ashy drongo), because these song birds are more aggressive toward eagles, which are the natural enemies of curik bali. Curik bali’s presence in the forest attracts attention, with its white feathers making it easy to spot. To avoid detection by eagles, they often perch on branches of pilang (Acacia trees), which have white bark that can camouflage them. For the protection of curik bali in nature, in 2004 the APCB, whose members comprise executives of zoos in Indonesia, the Forestry Ministry, bird researchers from the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) and members of the Indonesian Wildlife Conservation Forum (Foksi), conducted a survey in the TNBB to ascertain the causes of world agencies’ failure in curik bali conservation. It turned out that the failure was due to illegal logging and curik bali poaching, while the park itself was under threat and unable to optimally support the threatened species. “Since 2004, we’ve been trying to encourage the captive breeding of this endangered species by involving local people in conservation activities, which is backed by a Forestry Ministry decree permitting the public, particularly the community around the TNBB, to keep and breed curik bali,” said the head of the APCB, Tony Sumampau, when monitoring the birds in the park in Gilimanuk, Bali. In 2007, captive breeding activities in the TNBB area spread. The price of a curik bali was initially about Rp 15 million (US$1,310), which later decreased to Rp 6 million. The birds bred under such conditions are not considered ideal due to having been inbred. For better genetic quality, the APCB has sought new stock and collected 96 bird samples tested by LIPI specialists. LIPI curik bali researcher Noerdjito said the birds could be genetically improved in captive breeding. Fledglings should be selected for cross breeding to obtain the best offspring. However, the birds are generally released without this happening. “I’ve repeatedly notified the TNBB of the need to select the young curik bali, but the message may not have been properly received due to frequent post transfers, while the birds kept in several zoos in Indonesia should also be cross-bred for their best broods,” explained Noerdjito. Besides the Ainun Yaqqin Foundation being located some 4 kilometers from the TNBB, 17 curik bali breeders also live in Sumber Kalmpok village, Buleleng regency. They belong to the Curik Bali Conservationists Group (KPCB) of Manuk Jegeg. Based on a consensus between the breeders and the APCB, 10 percent of the birds bred are released. However, the breeders are disappointed by the difficulty in securing a license to sell curik bali. “We breed curik bali the same way we raise our cattle. We appeal for distribution license facilitation to enable us to sell the birds and buy insects and fruit for the young broods. We applied for a license from the Natural Resources Conservation Agency [BKSDA] a year ago but have had no response,” said Gusti, a breeder from Sumber Klampok.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Bali with expert
“Bali with an expert”
5 of 5 starsReviewed April 12, 2014 NEW
We recently arrived in the beautiful Bali via cruise ship. Our time was limited and we didn't exactly know what to to or see whilst there. Gede was wonderful. He was waiting for us at the dock with a cold bottle of water and a friendly smile. We did a relatively short tour consisting of a silver factory and the monkey forrest in Ubud. At Gede's suggestion we also stopped for a beautiful lunch along the way.
We couldn't have been in better hands and we will definitely contact Gede again the next time we visit Bali. If you want your Bali visit informative and memorable we highly recommend you contact Gede ahead of time and let him know what/where you would like to visit. We cannot recomment him highly enough.
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Great Tour,No Communication Barrier
“Great Tour, No Communication Barrier.”
5 of 5 starsReviewed April 10, 2014 NEW
Me and my girlfriend got to know Gede from our friends who has engaged to Gede tour service last year.
We contact Gede 7 months before our trip, and Gede was so well promptly reply to our email, He suggested places we shall visit, but because we were having a short trip so i have give up to some place has recommended by Gede, He sounds no problem to make any request to suits our needs.
Booked Gede with an Airport pick up but our flight was delayed on arrival about 1 hour due to a bad weather condition take off from Kuala Lumpur, Gede has waiting us at the departure hall with a piece of cardboard, big enough of Text to spot my own name although there was a large crowds of tour operator same as Gede holding their piece of paper to welcome their traveller.
We booked 2 days of trip, And Gede was a well speak english, exactly no problem on communication, along the trip Gede has bring to some topic telling us the culture, current affair and economy and also interesting place in Bali.
We have mention to Gede about our plan to have wedding in Bali, he is so kind that to suggest us to contact a wedding planner, and i have tell Gede our next trip on wedding to bali hope he would be able to be a guide driving our friends and family tour around Bali.
Visited April 2014
Saturday, March 22, 2014
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.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
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
Sunday, March 2, 2014
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.
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
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.
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.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
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.
Monday, December 16, 2013
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.
Monday, November 11, 2013
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
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
Sunday, October 6, 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.
Friday, October 4, 2013
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.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
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
Tuesday, September 24, 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
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