| Author | Content |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 10, 2009
10:43 PM Post #6671373
| My DH and I just returned from a fabulous vacation on the beautiful Indonesian island of Bali. There simply are not enough words to convey the magnificent beauty, tranquil spirituality, and warm friendliness of this incredible place. But never one to shy away from words, I will make an attempt to show pictures and tell you about our adventure. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 10, 2009
10:54 PM Post #6671427
| We used to have a direct flight (well, sort of direct), from Kwaj to Denpasar, Bali. That bit the dust back when airlines were fighting for their lives and so many didn't make it. So our trip to Bali was convoluted to say the least. We started here on Kwaj with the island hopper to Guam. Stops at Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk and finally Guam where we had to get our luggage and go through customs. Mad rush to get to the plane for Cairns, Aus. They were calling our name on the loud speaker while we were "randomly" chosen for explosive searches!
Tropicbreeze, did you have all the medical questionaires and doctor gaunlets? We sure did! Filled out all the forms, then Docs came on board before we were allowed to disembark - then we had to run the gauntlet through dozens of scrub-clad medics and get photographed by an infrared camera in search of fevers! As if traveling was easy to begin with!!!
Layover in Cairns - which we love - spent a pleasant couple of hours with the gardener at our hotel. Fascinating man and so knowledgeable! Breakfast and off to the airport again. Landed in Darwin with a 5 hour layover. Darwin's airport is pretty much an "excuse me" place...no amenities whatsoever, so we took a shuttle into town. Middle of the afternoon, and all the shops and restaurants were closed!!! Finally found sustenance at a place called The Hog'sBreath Saloon. Terrible name - great food. Back to the airport. Landed in Denpasar somewhere around 9 pm. The plane was out of all the forms, so we had to locate them and fill out same...more medical screening. Went to get our bags and four guys with enormous smiles had collected them and each one wanted to be the one to carry them out and find us a driver! The couldn't believe that we wanted to roll them out ourselves! Much discussion. Finally, bags in hand we ran the gauntlet of money changers that line the exit hall. There were dozens, but it felt like hundreds...each one clamoring about their rates and no commission. We turn the corner into the waiting area, which is outside, and are suddenly surrounded by hundreds (literally!) of drivers trying to convince us to choose them. The sound was deafening!!!
We had already made arrangements with a young man that many of our friends here had used in the past, and had exchanged e-mails with plans etc. Suddenly there he was...a short, slight man in western clothes, holding a sign with our names. His face was gentle and peaceful, and his eyes were large, dark and so very kind. I felt a calming influence immediately - even though the noise level hadn't changed. As he recognized us, he came and got our bags and walked us over toward his car. Then he stopped at the curb and turned to us, bowed, introduced himself - even though we knew who he was because we had pictures- touched his hands infront of his chest and said "Om swasiastu". That was the beginning of one of my most cherished friendships - we have sort of adopted Gede (G'Day), his wife and 8 yr old son. As you will see in the posts that follow - he is a remarkable young man, and a truly gifted tour guide!
More to come,
Yokwe,
Shari
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 10, 2009
11:08 PM Post #6671490
| It was after midnight by the time we got to our hotel. We were spending the first week at a resort called the Royal Bali Beach Club in Candidasa which is on the far east coast of Bali. A two hour drive from the airport. We checked in and pretty much just fell into our beds. The next morning we did some reconnoitoring around the hotel and just relaxed. Gede was coming to get us at ten the next morning to start our tour of Bali. Here are some pics of the hotel.
This was the reception area. It looks quite rustic at first, but then you find that the floors and desks are marble, and the tiles lining the outside walkway are designs made with tiny pebbles...just gorgeous!
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 10, 2009
11:16 PM Post #6671516
| Bali is an intensely spiritual place. Every building has at least one, and often 3 temples or shrines. The religion is mostly Hindu - but it is a Balinese Hindu - something found only here. These 3 temples were placed between the reception area and the beginning of the rooms. The largest is to the sun god, and the others were to other beneficent deities. Offerings of flowers, rice, cookies/crackers and incense were placed on each of these every morning. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 10, 2009
11:26 PM Post #6671575
| Bali is blessed with an abundance of sun, and plentiful water running down from the two major mountains...both volcanoes btw - one of which erupted last in 1963. This blessing from mother nature has created an island of rich volcanic soil, plentiful fresh water and sun to nourish all the amazing plantlife in the area. Most hotels take full advantage of the weather, and provide lots of beautiful grounds in which to just wander, and outdoor cafes, with thatching overhead to protect from the afternoon showers and intense heat. This was the building our room was in. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 10, 2009
11:27 PM Post #6671581
| Now why didn't the picture come out??? Hmmmm...
Well let's try again.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 11, 2009
12:20 AM Post #6671786
| This shot is of the restaurant attached (well, right in the middle of actually!) to our hotel. You can see the thatch...this is made from the bark of the coconut palm...most buildings in Bali use this for roofing...it will last for 50 or 60 years!!! They put it on very thick, I think I have a shot later in which you can actually see how thick it is.
The chef here was fabulous!! Some unusual combinations that played together very nicely, and even without the combinations, the guy was amazing. Rarely have I tasted so many delicious dishes from the same restaurant. Candidasa was a very tiny village, so we pretty much ate here unless we were out and about with Gede. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 11, 2009
12:26 AM Post #6671818
| Right behind the restaurant was the pool area, and then this fantastic view. The island out there is Nusa Penida...we didn't get there, but we heard there is some great diving off that island. Did I mention the spa treatments? Oh yes! Spas everywhere! I had several massages here...they had a lovely peaceful area curtained off behind the buildings...you choose the scent of oil you wish and a 1 1/2 hour, full body massage, with reflexology on feet and head...$15!!! As I said...I had several here. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 11, 2009
07:23 PM Post #6675199
| Our first day trip out into the countryside was up into the mountains to a place called Tirtagangga or Water Palace which was built in 1946 by the last raja of Karangasem. Apparently he had an obsession with pools and fountains which has left the people of Bali with this beautiful spot for picnics, swimming (in Holy water no less!) and just relaxing. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 11, 2009
07:34 PM Post #6675244
| The area was so intoxicating! The smell of the flowers and trees, wind blowing through the Banyans up on the mountain overlooking the grounds, and the sound of flowing water. We wandered around just admiring everything for a couple of hours. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 11, 2009
07:39 PM Post #6675272
| This banyan is several hundred years old. This whole area was damaged in the 1963 eruption of Gunung Agung, and it was feared that the Banyan would not recover...but as you can see, it is hale and hearty. The restoration of the whole area is remarkable...you can see some missing statues, and some repaired areas, but on the whole, unless you are specifically looking for it you don't notice a thing but beauty. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 11, 2009
07:43 PM Post #6675284
| One of several "temple" structures...the 11 tiers are significant to the Balinese Hindu religion. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 11, 2009
07:46 PM Post #6675306
| There are two swimming pools fed by the mountain springs which are considered "Holy water". The larger, lower one is free, and there is a small charge to swim in the upper one. I understand that villagers pay for their priests to swim in the upper pool. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 11, 2009
08:50 PM Post #6675600
| As you can see...we got a bit silly playing with all the statues 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
12:21 AM Post #6676641
| Your's truly: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
12:23 AM Post #6676650
| And Gede: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
12:26 AM Post #6676660
| This was a typical resting area within the Water Palace. Nearly all the temples, and all the villages had areas just like this for sitting and cooling off from the heat. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
12:32 AM Post #6676681
| Here you can see people swimming in the lower pool, and the rooms above for hotel and retreats. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
01:01 AM Post #6676752
| This type of stone work is typical of Balinese decoration. You see it all over the country, generally on temples, but also in and around private home compounds. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
01:13 AM Post #6676771
| A beautiful stone dragon bridge. Dragons are a symbol of good luck, power agains evil spirits, and helpful aids to the good gods and goddesses of Balinese religion/mythology. This pleased me no end, since I love any and all draconia. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
01:15 AM Post #6676775
| We say a fond sampai jumpa nanti (see you later) to the Water Palace. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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extranjera
Mérida
Mexico
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
02:48 AM Post #6676877
| gorgeous! I'm so enjoying this through your pictures and story. |
Braveheartsmom
Kihei, HI
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
11:27 AM Post #6678028
| Me too! I am ready to tune in for the next episode  |
RachelLF
Rural Retreat, VA
June 12, 2009
03:10 PM Post #6678719
| I sure enjoyed this tour of Bali! Lovely picture's and your writting's have a way of taking the reader there as well.
Thank's for sharing;-)
Rachel |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
04:33 PM Post #6679014
| Okay, so for those of you still interested, I hope you blow up these next few pics...I've left them a little larger than usual so that you can get some detail.
Rice farming is unrelenting, back-breaking work. It is nearly all done by hand by the multitude of farmers and their families. These emerald green rice terraces are everywhere. Ranged in steps up hillsides, tumbling down steep-sided river valleys, encircling villages...even the poorest farmer on the outskirts of a village will have terraced his tiny plot of land. The terracing is an ecological maneuver to help prevent erosion, but it has created a land of beauty that is truly stunning.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
05:37 PM Post #6679260
| The fertile volcanic soil, abundant sunshine and near daily rain showers create ideal growing conditions for this life sustaining grain, and the farmers generally get two crops a year out of each field. Even so, Bali imports much of its rice from neighboring Lombok! That astonished me! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
05:48 PM Post #6679299
| An ancient system of irrigation op-operatives ensures that neighbors help each other from the initial painstaking planting of the seedlings to the harvesting and threshing of the sawah (paddy). Though everyone helps, you will often see individual fields marked off with flags of many different colors...this flutter of gaily colored individualization adds to the whimsical beauty of the areas. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
05:53 PM Post #6679319
| Spiritual help is also enlisted from the rice goddess Dewi Sri, who is strictly a Balinese goddess. She is found no where else in the Hindu world. Dewi Sri (I will have a close up of one of her statues later), is courted with numerous shrines and ritual offerings and ceremonies throughout the country in every area of rice production. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
06:01 PM Post #6679360
| Remember Sting's beautiful song about the Golden Fields of Bali? Now I know whereof he spoke! When the grain ripens it turns a magnificent gold...this was as close as I could get of a golden field when I had the camera! Naturally, when we saw the truly golden ones, the camera was in the other car or something! The heads of the grain wave gently in the wind, the uncountable shades of green surround the sawah, and the golden hues draw your eyes with almost a hypnotic affect. Magnificent! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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plantladylin
East Central, FL
(Zone 9b)
June 12, 2009
06:13 PM Post #6679418
| Shari, Thank you so much for sharing your vacation with us! Your photo's and words made me feel like I was right there! Bali absolutely looks like a serene island of much beauty! I love the photo's of the rice terraces with that gorgeous scenery in the background!
Thanks again for sharing ... hope you and your husband had a wonderful vacation! |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
06:22 PM Post #6679462
| Hiya Lin!
Well folks, I have a ton more to show you...but my DH is clammoring at me to get off the pooter cuz we are trying to install a new one. I hope to be back soon, but if his track record holds true, it may be a few days.
See you on the flip side!
Yokwe,
Shari |
Braveheartsmom
Kihei, HI
(Zone 11)
June 12, 2009
07:36 PM Post #6679756
| Mahalo Shari, being an armchair traveler is the next best thing to being there myself! |
LouC
Desoto, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 12, 2009
11:11 PM Post #6680706
| For those of us who are landlocked, this appears to be magical, as is Maui. Oh, Shari, what a fantastic trip. One I would never even imagine. Jen, Maui is still like a dream I had one time. Maybe someday.
Princess Kilikina |
goofybulb
El Paso, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 14, 2009
02:40 PM Post #6686578
| Oh, I just found this new thread! What a wonderful trip you've been taking us to, Shari! Paradise! Thank you! |
tropicbreeze
noonamah
Australia
June 14, 2009
07:37 PM Post #6687496
| While I was in PNG recently my boss was in Bali, he has a place over there and is a regular visitor. I've never been, one of the very few Australians who's never been there. It's very close to here, so one day ... |
lourspolaire
Delray Beach, FL
(Zone 10a)
June 15, 2009
04:34 PM Post #6691810
| Shari, what an extraordinary trip. You had quite the vacation there. When everything is said and done, we have our memories, our photos, a new appreciation for what we have at home and what they have over there.
I truly enjoyed reading your posts and oggling the great pictures. That picture of you with that statue is very good. Looks like you had fun.
Take care, all.
Sylvain. |
RachelLF
Rural Retreat, VA
June 15, 2009
10:04 PM Post #6693277
| Shari, will look forward to seeing more great pic's of Bali.
Thank's again.
Rachel |
LouC
Desoto, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 15, 2009
10:08 PM Post #6693296
| Hello, friends. Have missed all of you.
PK |
lourspolaire
Delray Beach, FL
(Zone 10a)
June 16, 2009
12:14 PM Post #6695749
| Hello, PK. How are things coming along for you?
Pu'ole, aka Sylvain. |
LouC
Desoto, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 16, 2009
12:38 PM Post #6695878
| A little better each day...unless something reminds me of a particular experience and then...here we go again. Without my DG friends I would still be in a lump with no reason to go on. Have missed our little chats, Pu'ole.
Sometime soon I would ask that you repeat how you became "lourspolair". I was/am so impressed. And then again how that translates into Haiwaiian. Hope Gail is doing well.
Princess Kilikina aka LouC aka Christi |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
07:03 PM Post #6697558
| Well the track record is still intact. Days! However this time it wasn't his fault. Our SIL built the new computer and it doesn't want to play nice with some of our picture programs...so any further pics will have to wait until I can figure out how to shrink them with the new programs.
You guys are kind saying that you enjoy the pics...but I kinda feel like the old joke about watching your friends home movies. I hope I'm not boring you ... but I guess, if you didn't want to see any more, you could just not open the thread. So I will give it a shot until I notice the "view count" standing still. Ha Ha...at least that's one way to tell if there is any interest!
This was at a temple on the sea. The Gray Macaques were very inquisitive, and wanted to search your pockets, purses, camera cases...anything that might hold a tidbit or two. We got bags of cucumbers to feed them, and they became our good buddies.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
June 16, 2009
07:13 PM Post #6697615
| if you have photo shop, fax viewer, paint, office...you can resize with any of those by right clicking and selecting open with...any of those programs..then it will open pic and there will be a selection for image size..and usually you can reduce the horizontal and vertical by 50 percent...but you probably know that...just in case |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
07:20 PM Post #6697643
| Whenever you enter a temple area there are signs explaining that you are entering a sacred area so please dress accordingly. Usually there are people at the gate with sarongs and sashes that they give you to wear, and help get you into them. Our friend Gede was constantly having to adjust JB's sarong because it would fall down. We had our own sarong's so didn't have to use the "public" ones, but Gede always got one from the gate. I found that odd until he explained that the ones at the gate are "blessed" and washed in a special way. Not a necessary thing, but special for him. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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tropicbreeze
noonamah
Australia
June 16, 2009
07:29 PM Post #6697685
| Last night on TV there was a documentary about gardens. This particular episode was about Bangkok, Singapore and Bali. It was an interesting indepth look into styles and philosophies they were based on. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
07:37 PM Post #6697718
| Oh I would have loved to have seen that! Whenever JB and I travel, we spend as much time in any public or botanical gardens as we do on any other part of the trip.
This isn't a good picture of anything...I only include it here to prove that I too fed the monkeys at this temple. I got real up close and personal with the ones at the monkey forest, but here I just pretty much tossed them their little snacks.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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tropicbreeze
noonamah
Australia
June 16, 2009
08:02 PM Post #6697835
| So JB's not the only one involved in monkey business. ;O) |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:00 PM Post #6698157
| You know me too well!
These next few pictures (thanks Randy!) are all taken in a village called Tenganan, which is unique amoung the Bali Aga communities around the island in its strong adherance to traditional ways. These people have rejected the politics, caste system and religious reforms of the last 300 years, and live lives around their rituals and ceremonies and traditional methods. It is the only place in Indonesia where certain celebrated cloth is produced - called geringsing.
This message was edited Jun 16, 2009 1:34 PM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:03 PM Post #6698174
| Tenganan is also one of the places that produce these incredible baskets... known for their golden brown color and smokey aroma, the baskets are some of the most beautiful in the world. In specialty shops in the US, these baskets go for hundreds of dollars...here they go for $1 or $2 for the small ones and up to $50 for the hamper size ones. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:04 PM Post #6698179
| More of those great baskets: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:09 PM Post #6698200
| Another of the famous skills present at this village was the art of mask carving. Throughout Bali, dances and ceremonies are performed during which the major characters wear incredibly intricate masks...this is where most of the good ones come from. Now Tenganen is a very wealthy village because all of these items...the cloth, the baskets, masks and other handicrafts are all for sale. And oh how they love to bargain! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:12 PM Post #6698221
| I hope you can see some of the detail of these magnificent masks. We saw many dances - the Balinese way of passing down their history, mythology and religion, but they were all at night, and not many of the pictues came out very well. These masks were all in use, but I can't show you on the dancers. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
June 16, 2009
09:12 PM Post #6698222
| Shari, if I'm as far as Kwadj for a visit, it's now going to be on my way to Bali! |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:22 PM Post #6698267
| Right in the middle of the village there was this resting area at which some of the local merchants were relaxing and playing their gamelans. The gamelan joged bumbung is a xylophone type instrument made of bronze and split bamboo. It can be soft, mystical and perfect for meditation...but is much more often loud, boisterous and very, very fast. A muscian friend of mine told me that the average musician on Bali hits 7 notes a second! Luckily these guys were more into the former type, and made for a pleasant background to our sightseeing...that is until we came near there shops! Then Mr. Mustache there became the world's most enthusiastic salesman! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:27 PM Post #6698290
| I can live with that Randy! Or you could come here on your way back from Bali, in which case I could give you a shopping list! Ha Ha! I didn't have enough room to get everything I wanted!
This lovely young lady was Mr. Mustache's daughter. She is weaving their famous cloth...and just sits there day after day...the loom is latched behing her waist so she can lean into it to adjust tension. This piece, which will take many months to complete may sell for as much as $150 US. The cloth, patterns and skill involved make it a steal at that price.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:31 PM Post #6698313
| As you may know, cock-fighting is a major sport throughout Indonesia, and Bali is no different. Though I abhore the practice, I couldn't help but admire some of the rituals involved. The fighting cocks are treated like beloved treasures...and their "wives" are painted all the colors of the rainbow to entertain them. These were bright pink! Note the cages...way cool if you ask me. Painted chickens are used in religious ceremonies as well, so you see colorful hens all over Bali. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:33 PM Post #6698326
| And of course since Bali is Hindu, and cows are sacred...these friendly fellows walked along with us as we toured Tenganan. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
June 16, 2009
09:36 PM Post #6698339
| and check this out.. I HAVE to get my passport because I'm going with my parents to...are your ready!??? the foreign far away country ..get ready...of Canada...Victoria...in September |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:48 PM Post #6698404
| Each of the individual homes in the village was surrounded by walls similar to this one...the homes are more a compound consisting of several buildings, and these walls surround the compound to separate one from another. The walls are sometimes more lavishly decorated than the inner compounds, because after all, the walls are what most people see. They can be of brick, stone, wood, any number of designs...quite the feast for the eyes. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:52 PM Post #6698415
| Here again, I hope you can see the detail...this wall was one of my favorites. It was entirely constructed of millions of flat river rocks! On either side of the doorway you can see the little shelves for offerings to the gods... I was just amazed at the time this must have taken! Collecting all the rocks, and then placing them on the walls and doorways...amazing! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
09:56 PM Post #6698432
| Okay, last one for today...I have to go to rehearsal...its Week here...Dress Rehearsal for students and family is friday, then Sat and Sun we have our main shows...
Please note the plant in this gentleman's yard. A very popular handicraft in Bali is painted eggs. Each egg is a miniature masterpiece...I'm very picky and I bought 4! All over Bali you will see these "egg trees"...the emptied shells are carefully placed on the branches of sturdy plants to dry. Pink Chickens and Egg Trees...what's not to Love?????
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
June 16, 2009
09:58 PM Post #6698442
| lol..the resizing must of worked..
it's beautiful...! |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 16, 2009
10:00 PM Post #6698455
| Ha! I KNEW the new rules would get you! I figured it would be Mexico though. My folks down in Brownsville have been going across the border at least once a week for about 70 thousand years. Now they have to show passports and you DO NOT want to get my Dad started about that! He takes it as a personal insult to his integrity.
Well, now my chances of getting you out here will improve, so I am a happy camper!
Yokwe my friends,
Shari |
rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
June 16, 2009
10:01 PM Post #6698461
| that's for sure...we'll start bidding in September for next years Holidays |
tropicbreeze
noonamah
Australia
June 16, 2009
10:12 PM Post #6698522
| I hope the river rocks in the walls are held in with something secure. I'd hate to bump the wall and then feel obliged to put all the stones back up for them. |
LouC
Desoto, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 16, 2009
11:02 PM Post #6698810
| Ok, Randy. How many extras can go to Bali with you? Don't you think it is time I lived a little?
Gonna check into a passport tomorrow. You are trapped, sweetheart!
PK |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
12:58 AM Post #6699270
| Tropicbreeze, that house has been there for well over a hundred years, so I'm sure they are held with something very secure.
Christi...you CANNOT go to Bali unless you come here either coming or going. I want your promise, or I will post no further pics. (But you have GOT to go to Bali!!!)
Yokwe,
Shari |
tropicbreeze
noonamah
Australia
June 17, 2009
05:33 AM Post #6699531
| Well that's a relief! I can be a bit clumsy at times. ;O)
Out of curiosity I checked on flight details. Only a 2.5 hour flight from here, and $448 return. |
lourspolaire
Delray Beach, FL
(Zone 10a)
June 17, 2009
07:23 AM Post #6699678
| Shari, many many thanks for sharing your pictures with us. Bali is so remote (for us), so exotic. I would love to see it but I can't see that happening any time soon.
Randy, you're going to Victoria! Oh, I see a botanical garden or two in your future.
I anxiously await the next installment of your pictures and travel stories, Shari.
Take care, all.
Sylvain. |
rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
June 17, 2009
03:19 PM Post #6701629
| I think 2 can Christi...shall I call them full?
Oh yes Sylvain, my Step Mom & I make the annual pilgrimage to Buchart every year in September...looooooooove it ..! |
LouC
Desoto, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 17, 2009
06:48 PM Post #6702526
| Sounds like the time of my life. Remember, I am actually an island girl trapped inland. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
10:44 PM Post #6703515
| Hi everyone! So glad these pics are getting some of you to think "Bali", and I hope others are just enjoying the armchair journey.
On this day, Gede was taking us up to visit the volcano that had erupted in 1963. Naturally, the trip up the mountains were filled with wonderful vistas, which I will show in a moment. This pic is of the bamboo poles that are curved, split and shaped into beautiful designs in honor of the mountain god. We saw hundreds of these all up the mountain, in every village and in front of every house. They are apparently replaced with new ones whenever there is a ceremony...wedding, funeral, special temple event, etc.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
RachelLF
Rural Retreat, VA
June 17, 2009
10:47 PM Post #6703533
| Still here on my "arm-chair" journey as well.
Keep them coming as long as you can;-)
Thank's much
Rachel |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
10:49 PM Post #6703537
| Just to prove that Bali is not just beaches and rice terraces, we took some shots from up the mountain even though it was a very cloudy day. From here you can see (well almost), the volcano across the lake from us, the very large lake, and the tiny village that exists just on the edge of both. Sorry this isn't clearer, but we just couldn't control the weather, no many how many offerings we presented. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
10:51 PM Post #6703546
| Still pretty cloudy, but maybe you can see things a little better: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
10:55 PM Post #6703562
| This is the temple we were visiting up at the volcano area. There are hundreds and hundreds of temples in Bali... we started out taking lots of pictures, but by the 10th or so temple, we just took a few shots. I am only going to hit the highlights here if I can. This was the walkway up to the main entrance...the stone carving is incredible, but also omnipresent - so one couldn't help but start taking it for granted. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:04 PM Post #6703615
| Check out these doors! These are not just painted...they are carved and then painted! The detail is amazing! The paint is gold flake...not solid gold, but with a good deal of gold in it. Just magnificent! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:07 PM Post #6703630
| The area surrounding this temple is huge. At times there are thousands of people praying here. The way Gede explained it to us: Everyone belongs to his family temple, every family temple belongs to one of 3 or so village temples, each village temple belongs to 2 or so regional temples. Then there are temples for special interests...arts, knowledge, historical events, etc. And then there is the Mother Temple, which encompasses all. As you can see...ritual and ceremony are as much a part of everyday life in Bali as breathing. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:10 PM Post #6703648
| Statues like this one surround all temple areas...and it seems everywhere else! The creativity and artistry of the Balinese people is mind-boggling. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:11 PM Post #6703657
| Another set of temple doors...open this time. Please note the remarkable detail...as Gede says "wash the eyes". 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:18 PM Post #6703684
| This is a smaller area within the temple...for special offerings, small group ceremonies etc. This temple was originally built in the 14th century, so if it looks a little worn, I think that is completely understandable! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:26 PM Post #6703705
| On our way back down the mountain we stopped to take some pictures of these rice terraces just about ready to be harvested. Each "plot" either belongs to or is worked by different people in the village, but when it is time to harvest, everyone helps. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:33 PM Post #6703741
| A legend says that in payment for the ideal growing conditions the people would have to give half of their harvest to the gods when all the harvesting is done. Therefore, each farmer starts a new sewah before harvesting an existing one. This way, harvesting is never "done". Clever folks. They also practice crop rotation, so you will see corn, beans, herbs and flowers interspersed amoung the rice paddies. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:45 PM Post #6703787
| Rice, sugar cane, little resting huts and incredible beauty. Even the picture fills you with a sense of peace. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:47 PM Post #6703794
| But the terraces will always knock your socks off. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:49 PM Post #6703806
| The roads are extremely narrow in many places, so we couldn't get a very good shot, but here you can see many people working at the harvest. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:54 PM Post #6703827
| When people from Sumatra come to Bali to live they don't move into a Balinese house or compound, they build their own. This is a Sumatra house. Very unusual design, don't you think? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:54 PM Post #6703830
| This was a lovely hedge surrounding a restaurant we decided to try. Gede said they called it "cat's whiskers". Sound familiar to anyone? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 17, 2009
11:58 PM Post #6703848
| This was taken from the edge of the dining room of that restaurant. They grow all their own fruits and vegetables - organically. The river at the bottom of this valley provided us with a lovely counterpoint to all the bird song while we were having a leisurely lunch. We were the only people in the restaurant at the time, so it was very easy to believe that we few were the only people in Bali. Talk about serenity! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 18, 2009
12:02 AM Post #6703860
| I must leave for rehearsals...so I am sending this last one. Again from the restaurant. There was a huge empty room on the premises, with a beautiful wood floor. They told me it was a meditation room. Can you imagine a more exquisite setting for truly beneficial meditation?
Sampai jumpa beso...(see you tomorrow)
Yokwe,
Shari
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
lourspolaire
Delray Beach, FL
(Zone 10a)
June 18, 2009
10:55 AM Post #6705455
| Hi.
I don't know of your pictures "wash the eyes", but they sure are easy on the eyes. Thank you so much (again) for sharing all this with us.
Sylvain. |
Marcy_1
New Madison, OH
(Zone 5a)
June 18, 2009
10:59 AM Post #6705479
| Shari, I am thoroughly enjoying MY trip to Bali...through you!
Thank you so much! |
RachelLF
Rural Retreat, VA
June 18, 2009
04:06 PM Post #6706953
| I am still enjoying this too Shari.
Rachel |
goofybulb
El Paso, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 19, 2009
04:52 PM Post #6711832
| I've been watching every picture with much delight, and I'm so happy of this unexpected internet-vacation for me! It's fascinating, the art in all forms, the greenery, and the sweet little monkeys! You've had a great time! I will never be bored of your pics, Shari!
Alexandra |
AlohaHoya
Keaau, HI
(Zone 11)
June 20, 2009
12:42 PM Post #6715144
| Wonderful travelogue, Shari...enjoyed it mucho! We spent a week in Ubud in 2000 and loved it! Fun to relive it thru you.
Aloha nui loa |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 20, 2009
11:54 PM Post #6717542
| Hi gang! My computer has been down for the last several days, and I have been swamped with show stuff. Last performance is tonight, so if anyone wants to see more/read more, I will check in tomorrow. It is nice to hear that you are enjoying them, but I'll see tomorrow if I should keep posting.
Ta for now,
Yokwe,
Shari |
Braveheartsmom
Kihei, HI
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
11:55 AM Post #6718891
| Keep posting ! LOL! |
AlohaHoya
Keaau, HI
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
12:32 PM Post #6719018
| yes...keep posting. |
LouC
Desoto, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 21, 2009
02:21 PM Post #6719380
| Waiting. |
extranjera
Mérida
Mexico
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
02:40 PM Post #6719444
| I'm enjoying this virtual tour a lot, please keep posting. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
06:58 PM Post #6720287
| Okay then! Today we are going to the town of Klungkung, one of the district capitals and a very busy, bustling trading area. The main place we are going to visit is the remains of the royal palace, but on the way we pass through this round-about. Much like places in Europe where objects de arte are displayed in the center of these traffic nightmares, Bali displays huge statues of characters from their religion/mythology/history. This one is somewhate decorated because of a ceremony, and it depicts four of the guardians of the people. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:01 PM Post #6720298
| I'm trying to get a closer shot of the characters alone, but I think it got blurry...traffic. But maybe you can see Ganesa - the "elephant man". 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:07 PM Post #6720316
| Another amazing piece of architectural achievement is The Puputan Monument - in honor of those who died in 1906 following the Raja in a fight to the death against the Dutch. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:14 PM Post #6720346
| As we enter the grounds of the Taman Gili or royal palace compound, you can see the ancient statues that surround the area. This palace was moved to Klungkung in the 1600's , and though the recently built Museum is obviously of modern construction, and the painted ceilings have been restored a few times, much of the stonework and statuary is deteriorating badly. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:16 PM Post #6720350
| This is the royal family temple - and was closed off to the public. But that didn't stop us from trying to play chess on the grass with some of those statues! All in our mind of course. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:22 PM Post #6720383
| Here we are, right in the center of a busy, noisy town...lots of traffic, vendors hawking their wares, buses and taxi's honking, restaurants filling the air with a myriad of inviting smells...and it all fades away. When walking around these ponds and stonework and statues, all you hear, all you see, all you can think about are days gone by...it is so easy to imagine the Raja and his family walking from temple to palace to consultation pavillion. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:25 PM Post #6720393
| Here you can see the "bell tower". Huge wooden bells that have the most magnificent sound! The would be struck a specific number of times to indicate a ceremony of some type, a visiting dignitary, or a meeting of the Raja with various lesser rajas in the consultation pavillion. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:29 PM Post #6720406
| And here is the main reason for our trip: The Consultation Pavillion. It sits near the edge of the Taman Gili (Island Gardens), high enough to look out over the surrounding town, and also high enough that the people could see in to the pavillion over the walls and see their "government" at work. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:33 PM Post #6720424
| And here they sat. Kerta Gosa or the Consultation Pavilion for Peace and Prosperity is sometimes described as a criminal court - I suppose because of the paintings of somewhat gruesome punishmens that can be found on the ceiling - but it is much more likely that this is where the King and his ministers sat to debate law and other matters of importance to the towns and villages. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:38 PM Post #6720453
| These paintings are the only surviving examples of classical wayang painting in situ on the island, (called this because the figures are identical to the characters in the wayang puppet theater, an essential part of Balinese life). 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:42 PM Post #6720473
| The paintings have gone through restorations in the 30's, 60's and again in 1982. What's remarkable is that they remain so vibrant even though bombarded with all the pollution of a modern world, and the natural elements of wind, rain and sunlight. There are no doors or windows on this pavilion... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:45 PM Post #6720483
| The paintings are magnicent, but almost as interesting are the carvings and surround support structures. Everything is carved and painted...nothing is plain. The eyes simply cannot take it all in at one sitting. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:46 PM Post #6720490
| This is a cross beam??? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:48 PM Post #6720497
| But one's eye's cannot help going back to the paintings... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:50 PM Post #6720504
| Eventually we made our way to the museum. An interesting place, but not one I will subject you to for very long. After all, most museums are pretty similar. This one did have a few surprises though... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:51 PM Post #6720511
| Believe it or not...this is a public telephone! We thought it was a display...nope! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:54 PM Post #6720518
| Here is my darlin JB...struggling with his sarong yet again. But he does look like he's enjoying himself, don't you think? Most of the artwork in the museum was either very stylized wayung, or impressionistic which Gede said gave him a headache. Must be a matter of taste... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
07:57 PM Post #6720531
| Maybe you can blow this up and make your own decision. This was the least impressionistic of the impressionists. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 21, 2009
08:05 PM Post #6720563
| I found this fascinating...but maybe I was just being naive. These tall pieces at the end are bullet housings!!!! The Balinese people are so artistic and fundamentally peaceful, that they decorated their bullet housings!!! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
12:27 AM Post #6726275
| Carol, many folks her on Kwaj that have been to Bali told us about Ubud, and how wonderful it was. The first two times we tried to enjoy this remarkable place, the President of Indonesia was visiting on a campaign trip, followed by two other candidates. Elections are in a few weeks, so it was getting pretty hectic. Consequently the streets were filled with military and police and ten times more people than usual. Gede told us that this was not in any way normal for Ubud, but aside from the Monkey Forest and the dances at night, we really didn't enjoy it. Finally we tried it a 3rd time in the middle of the week, and found the charming, artistic and historical place that we had heard about!
I have many pictures of the plants and flowers we discovered in Bali, but I will post them in appropriate threads at a later time.
Still busy catching up (my you have all been pretty busy!) Jeanne your garden looks lovely! All that research into invasives, and so much help for folks with quesitons...I feel so special to be a member of this great forum! I'll have some more pictures and stories for you tomorrow.
Yokwe my friends,
Shari |
lourspolaire
Delray Beach, FL
(Zone 10a)
June 23, 2009
12:53 PM Post #6727728
| Shari, words fail me to tell you how much I vicariously enjoy your trip to Bali. Thanks so much for all this work you are doing in order to be able to share your experiences with us. The image on your post of June 21 at 7:57 can not be enlarged. Maybe if you tried posting a larger image. By the time the copyright notices are done, there's no space for the image itself. But it's all right. Don't worry about it. I daren't say what I THINK it is and it wouldn't be surprising if it were that. Maybe it's better left like that.
Take care and thank you again.
Sylvain. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
06:38 PM Post #6728937
| Sylvain, you are probably correct. And I really don't think it is worth too much extra effort. Ha Ha...here I am imposing my artistic taste on an unsuspecting public. However I am so pleased that you are enjoying the pictures. I've noticed that the "view count" is still going up, so I will post the next batch.
Today we are visiting a quite mysterious place called Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave). After decending hundreds of steep stairs from the parking area we come to this sacred place believed to have been a retreat for eleventh century Hindu priests, while at the same time being an area of devotion for Buddhists. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
06:46 PM Post #6728974
| The entire area surrounding the cave is lush and beautiful. Local men and women pick up the occasional tourist trash, broken branches and any agri-detrius that would mar the aura of the compound. It is so far below street level that most sound is effectively dampened...even tourist chatter is extremely muffled...spooky and spiritual all at the same time. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
06:49 PM Post #6728993
| One of several waterfalls that can be seen on your descent to the compound. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
06:53 PM Post #6729014
| Here is the cave itself, and in front you can see part of the bathing pool whose ancient fountains hint of past elegance and beauty while dominating the courtyard. The gaping mouth of the doorway is said to represent the earth god Bhoma. Early visitors thought it resembled an elephan'ts head, which is how the cave got its modern name.
This message was edited Jun 23, 2009 11:18 AM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
06:56 PM Post #6729036
| Local men and women would have bathed in one of these segregated pools to cleanse themselves before making offerings or prayers. The water still flows, but these pools are now maintained for ornamental purposes only, no bathing. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
07:01 PM Post #6729060
| This monstrous image was two fold in purpose...at least that is what the mythology says. 1) It's ferocious aspect scares away any evil spirits lurking nearby and 2) pilgrims were immediately aware that they were entering a different, holier world. Here Gede and I prepare to enter. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
07:15 PM Post #6729118
| The interior is dark, with only an occasional light crudely hung from the hand carved cave - actually a series of cells placed in a T-shape, probably used as meditation or sleeping quarters for priests or ascetics. Here Gede and I are preparing an offering at a statue of Ganesha. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
07:17 PM Post #6729127
| Offerings in front of three lingga - phallic emblems of the god Siwa. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
07:22 PM Post #6729148
| After leaving the cave, it is pleasant to wander the grounds...they are soothing and beautiful... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
07:26 PM Post #6729157
| and you will see Buddah images carved into huge fragments of rock...waterfalls, and remnants of Hindu statues...an interesting, spiritual place that leaves quite an impression. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
LouC
Desoto, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 23, 2009
11:01 PM Post #6730157
| Most people live on a lonely island,
Lost in the middle of a foggy sea.
Most people long for another island,
One where they know they will like to be.
Bali Ha'i may call you,
Any night, any day,
In your heart, you'll hear it call you:
"Come away...Come away."
Bali Ha'i will whisper
In the wind of the sea:
"Here am I, your special island!
Come to me, come to me!"
Your own special hopes,
Your own special dreams,
Bloom on the hillside
And shine in the streams.
If you try, you'll find me
Where the sky meets the sea.
"Here am I your special island
Come to me, Come to me."
Bali Ha'i, Bali Ha'i, Bali Ha'i! |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 23, 2009
11:37 PM Post #6730308
| Ahhh, my favorite song from the movie that started my love affair with the Pacific Islands. Thank you Christi!
Yokwe,
Shari |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
09:41 PM Post #6734531
| Well now...after visiting what people called the "Elephant Cave", what would be more natural than to go visit some living breathing elephants? We knew we were getting close when we came upon this sign: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
09:49 PM Post #6734564
| Here we are at the Elephant Safari Park, home to 19 Sumatran elephants. This park is the result of an idea hatched by the man behind the Bali Adventure Tours company. His plan was to rescue Sumatran elephants that had been trained to work in the logging industry but were then abandoned when the idustry declined. (There are no wild elephants in Bali). The elephants and their pawhan's (mahout's) were brought to Bali and now look healthy and well cared for. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
09:51 PM Post #6734574
| This little guy and another - a girl - were both born in March. Obviously the park is doing something wonderfully right! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
09:55 PM Post #6734634
| There are shows daily during which the elephants paint, play the harmonica and give each other showers, but JB and I just wanted to ride these wonderful creatures. Mine was "Boris", and JB's was "Rhama". The drivers are friendly, very willing to tell all about the lives the elephants have lived, how they came to be in Bali, etc. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
09:57 PM Post #6734649
| First we toured the enclosed part of the Park...a beautifully landscaped area with grassy fields, pools, a restaurant, gift shop, and many beautiful flowers. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
09:59 PM Post #6734661
| Then we entered the forest area, of course Rhama opened the gate since he was in front, and then Boris closed it behind us. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:01 PM Post #6734675
| This coffee plant is just one of many in this forest, there were also lots of little farms, mostly chickens and pigs, but JB had the camera most of the time, so we got more pics like these next couple. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:05 PM Post #6734703
| This spider was huge! As big as your hand! And naturally Boris decided he had to stop for a snack right under it! I think it was a plot...JB was in front, he had raved about this "cool thing" I had to see, and when we got there and Boris heard me "oh, yuck, gross, get me outta here"ing, he figured that meant "stop for a rest".
This message was edited Jun 24, 2009 2:24 PM |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:07 PM Post #6734719
| this is what we were walking through. Rhama would pull down a branch of something and tear it up to munch. Then Boris would come along and munch on whatever Rhama had left. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:27 PM Post #6734812
| Ooops! the spider pic didn't show...I'll try again. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:28 PM Post #6734823
| Again...a huge spider. Can you tell that JB likes spidery critters? NOT ME! I was ducking and swearving and my driver was having a great time laughing at me! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:31 PM Post #6734837
| Evenually...after about 45 minutes, we came out of the jungle and the elephants headed straight to this pool where their buddies were hanging out. It was pretty neat, when we first got in we were right in the middle of all these other elephant bodies and could pet them, and they were checking us out with their trunks for any goodies... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:33 PM Post #6734847
| Just in case you couldn't tell by the look on my face...I was having a blast!!! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:35 PM Post #6734857
| Then we went over to play with the babies some more...Mom's were very protective, but the pawhan's would push them out of the way so the babies could come over by us. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:36 PM Post #6734860
| Before we left the park, we just wandered around and admired all the beautiful trees and flowers... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 24, 2009
10:38 PM Post #6734867
| And on this note, I will leave you for the day. Enjoy the tour, and I'll see you tomorrow!
Yokwe,
Shari
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
07:30 PM Post #6738820
| Salamat siang! Today we are visiting a few different places. The first is an area of Kusamba where we learn how salt is reclaimed from the sea. This is one of the most back-breaking occupations on the islands, and not many people still do it, but this gentleman and his family graciously showed us the process. The body of water in this photo is the Indian Ocean, and this clear patch of black sand is where vast quantities of water are hauled in from the ocean in buckets and dumped to begin the evaporation process. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
07:34 PM Post #6738834
| When the water has evaporated, the salty, sandy residue is placed in hollowed out palm tree trunks and mixed with more sea water. There were a series of these trunks, each with a filter on the end leading to the next one. The water becomes saturated with salt and a very thick brine is poured off. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
07:36 PM Post #6738842
| This shot is of some of the tools "of the trade"...buckets, hollowed out palm trunk basins...doesn't look easy, does it? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:31 PM Post #6739057
| After the brine has been filtered down, it is carried to these troughs made again of hollowed out palm trees. Here it sits until the water evaporates again and the salt crystals can be scooped up, bagged and carried to market. The restaurants and hotels use more modernly processed salt, but you can still find bags of salt, processed just like this in the street markets around Bali. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:34 PM Post #6739068
| This family using the troughs you see here, produces approx. 25 kg a day. Of course rain and high tides can halt the production, and cloudy days definately slow things down, so this is not an industry that will make anyone wealthy. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:38 PM Post #6739079
| But these children didn't know they weren't wealthy. We shared a bag of mangosteens with these adorable kids,(they acted like we were giving them treasures!), played a little catch, and sat in the shade with Mom for about an hour before we went on our way. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:42 PM Post #6739092
| The next stop on our Bali tour is the temple at Goa Lawah or The Bat Cave. No superheros here, but please note the golden bat at the top of the center pillar. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:46 PM Post #6739106
| I think the bat is clearer on this one. No one seems to be quite sure, but it is estimated that this temple was founded somewhere around 1007. It is very small, by Balinese standards, but also much beloved by the Balinese people, being one of the nine directional temples. This one is dedicated to the southeast, and you can see people stopping their cars throughout the day to leave offerings at the streetside shrines. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:48 PM Post #6739113
| The grounds are once again, beautifully maintained. Clean and lovingly landscaped, it is a pleasant walk to the temple and cave areas. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:51 PM Post #6739124
| Here you can see the usual 9 or 11 tiered columns, and the bell tower to call people to prayer. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:54 PM Post #6739141
| Even the trees are given their lovingly maintained "dressing" of the black and white sarongs...symbalizing balance - ying and yang - good and evil. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
08:57 PM Post #6739164
| In this shot of one of the smaller structures within the temple area, you can see just how thickly the palm bark thatch is applied. The paint on these structures is restored every ten or so years, but the thatch won't have to be replace for 50 or 60 years! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:00 PM Post #6739177
| Once again the beauty in the stonework, the carving and painting just enthralled me. And to think that this place is a thousand years old!!!! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:09 PM Post #6739234
| Here is the actual cave, and many people praying. No one is allowed inside the cave except the priests, and no one knows how large it really is, but the mythology is that it goes over 30 km to the Mother Temple. Here again one is struck by how joyfully these people are praying. Crying children, wandering tourists, and squeaking, stinking bats don't seem to bother them in the slightest. They smile as we walk by, chat with the devotee to their right or left, bounce a child to giggles. No solemnity, but an amazing dignity within their joy. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:12 PM Post #6739255
| This cave is home to not just a few, but thousands of fruit bats. Unfortunately we didn't have a chance to get a really clear picture, because of the prayers going on... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:15 PM Post #6739267
| If this many were hanging around just on the edge, your imagination should be able to conjour up an idea of what the inside must be like! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:21 PM Post #6739305
| Okay! Enough of the serious stuff! They called this place the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary - but it was 100% FUN to Jb, Gede and I. We took Gede's 8 year old son Wahju with us, and he was more scared than having fun, but we tried to turn that around as soon as possible. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:26 PM Post #6739322
| They took to us right away. Especially since we had little bananas to feed them, ha ha. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:30 PM Post #6739336
| This little guy kept playing with my necklace. When I stopped him, he actually was patting my neck and throat as if he was trying to tickle me! And I just hated it, can't you tell? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:48 PM Post #6739427
| This sanctuary is home to some 140 mischievious but photogenic long-tailed macaques. We fed at least 400, so I don't know why they say there are so few. You don't think some came back a few times do you? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:50 PM Post #6739447
| Oops...I keep doing that! Here's the pic: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:53 PM Post #6739466
| We watched them playing in this pool to help Wahju get over his fear of them. Even Gede wouldn't feed them at first. Then when they started jumping on us, Wahju got really scared. Finally he realized that they weren't hurting us, and he calmed down enough to actually toss some bananas at the smaller ones. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:56 PM Post #6739494
| They were everywhere: on the walkways 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
09:58 PM Post #6739503
| Up in the trees: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
10:00 PM Post #6739523
| and on the walls: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
10:04 PM Post #6739557
| They were remarkably soft, and even the big ones, like this guy, weren't terribly heavy. In fact, the bigger ones were generally better behaved than the adolescents. But...isn't that the general way of the world? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
10:08 PM Post #6739581
| We even finallly convinced Gede to let one get on his lap. The rule was, they could touch you, but you couldn't touch them. And they would bite if provoked. One guy got quite angry at me for not giving him my water bottle, and when I said "No" very forcefully, he bit my arm. I didn't want to scare Wahju, so made little of it, but I had quite a bruise for 3 or 4 days. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
10:14 PM Post #6739607
| And here is your's truly with a different type of monkey...my darlin boy Wahju. As you can see we are sitting on another dragon bridge. The sanctuary isn't really a place of any special artistry, or landscaping, after all, the attraction here is the monkeys themselves, but I don't think there can be anyplace on Bali that doesn't have something carved, painted, or adorned in some way. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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RachelLF
Rural Retreat, VA
June 25, 2009
10:20 PM Post #6739634
| Shari, I am still loving this so very much! Thank you, Thank you, for all of this. Keep the pic's/info. coming;-)
Big hug
Rachel |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
10:32 PM Post #6739683
| Okay, last one for today. This was where we stayed in Sanur - The Bali Emerald Villas. For anyone planning a romantic getaway, or honeymoon, this is the place. Whereas the Bali Beach Club in Candidasa was a great social gathering place, this one is perfect for folks who just want to be alone. There was a decent restaurant attached to the resort, but we were usually the only ones there. There was no charge for room service, so most folks ate in their villas if they didn't go out. It was a very large resort, but you really never knew that. The villas were small enclaves surrounding individual pools, and even though there were 3 or 4 villas in each enclave, we were generally the only ones in ours - so we pretty much had the pool to ourselves. (Which Wahju just LOVED!!) High, vine covered walls, and lots of plants and trees kept the sounds of the city away, and all we really heard were birds and the wind in the trees. As I said - an idyllic honeymoon spot. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 25, 2009
10:37 PM Post #6739707
| Rachel, you are so kind to let me know you are enjoying the pics. Apparently lot's of folks are looking at them, but not too many are posting anything. I'm glad you like them. If you like wood sculpture, be sure to check in tomorrow...I am getting ready to knock your socks off!
Yokwe,
Shari |
Marcy_1
New Madison, OH
(Zone 5a)
June 25, 2009
10:42 PM Post #6739727
| I thank you again too Shari! I am thoroughly enjoying your pics!! |
RachelLF
Rural Retreat, VA
June 25, 2009
10:58 PM Post #6739814
| I will be right here and thank's for being so nice to us Northern living people;-) You people are our eye's and "A" very valuable link to other culture's in the world that some of us may never be fortunate enough to visit.
Rachel
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Braveheartsmom
Kihei, HI
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
12:48 AM Post #6740117
| Still enjoying the show~ |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
05:55 PM Post #6742703
| Salamat pegi! Today's excursion is up to Ubud to visit some wood carvers. At least that is what THEY call themselves, to me they are master sculptors and incredible artists! Anyway, on the way we stopped to watch this soccer game in the mud. These kids were having waaaay too much fun. Some even peeled down to their birthday suits, so as not to get their clothes dirty - or to make it harder to catch them maybe. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
05:58 PM Post #6742715
| The pleasure we got from watching these kids was only exceeded by their own joy in completely unrestricted fun! The sound of their laughter stayed with us all day. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
05:59 PM Post #6742723
| When Gede pulled the car up in front of this place, my jaw dropped. I have been collecting wooden sculpture from all over the world for years, and I felt like I had just found Nirvana! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:01 PM Post #6742726
| The remarkable detail on these pieces was stunning. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:14 PM Post #6742765
| Many of the pieces are carved from tree roots and drift wood. In some places these irregularly shaped wood pieces have encouraged a plethora of otherworldy monsters and strange elongated creatures. I preferred the pieces seen here, where the shapes of the roots are used to create sea scapes, pillars of horses, wild cats, dogs, monkeys or gamboling spirits chasing each other around their static playground. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:15 PM Post #6742768
| Just enjoy: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:20 PM Post #6742781
| For centuries the wood carvers art was used to decorate the pillars, doors, panels and lintels of the temples and palaces. With the influx of tourism in the early 20th century, the idea of carving for purely ornamental uses started to take off, and more and more of these artists began carving animals, sea creatures and beautiful women to sell to the tourists. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:25 PM Post #6742794
| However, by the mid 30's it was noticed by some collectors and influential artists that the quality of the carvings were declining drastically. Competitions and Arts Movements and museums were established to revive the artistic quality of these carvers, and now some are "shown" in galleries all over the world. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:38 PM Post #6742838
| There are now shops all over Bali, some of the best in Mas and Nyuhkuning, many found in the home compounds of families of wood-carvers. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:42 PM Post #6742846
| One exceptionally fine Gallery that we visited was this one in Mas. The Ngurah Gallery. This family had been carving wood for generations, and the Uncle had been invited to shows in Sydney, London and the United States. The work was exquisite! The detail on this dragon took my breath away! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:52 PM Post #6742862
| They work with many different types of wood. The soft white timber known as crocodile wood, the tan colored wood from the poinciana, the lemony yellow of the Jackfruit tree, a darker tan and sweet smelling sandalwood, the dark woods of the hibiscus tree, mahogany and the darkest, hardest timber of ebony, all graced this beautiful gallery. Here as well we saw pieces carved from the knarled roots of the frangipani, or plumeria trees. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
06:55 PM Post #6742870
| Here one of the nephews is working on a carving of Saraswati, my favorite Hindu goddess. They said it would take months to finish the piece. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
07:03 PM Post #6742902
| After leaving Mas, we encountered another of the ubiquitous temple ceremonies. Gede thought that this might have been a wedding, but we couldn't be sure. You can see the women carrying offerings coming from and going to the temple, all dressed in the traditional sarong and lace blouse. I was very pleased to find out that it is the act of creating the offering that is important to the gods. Once it is complete, it is finished as an offering, so then becomes "leftovers" which they take back to their homes and share with family and friends. None of this food is left at the temple to rot. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
07:11 PM Post #6742927
| As you can see in this picture, the streets are narrow, so encountering a celebration is always a traffic snarler. But you pretty much can't travel in Bali without finding them, and there is a respect for the celebration that eases any frustration caused by the delay. There are no road-rage incidents, no honking, no angry ephithets. It's so pleasant!!! Note the man playing the flute like instrument to the enjoyment of the children. The gay chatter of the people on their pilgrimage, the laughter of the children, gamelan music from the temple and this flute on the street all made for a happy cacophany that merged with the laughter still ringing in my head from the soccer game. It was one of those days that made my cheeks ache from smiling, but what a pleasant ache! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
07:16 PM Post #6742945
| Another of the fantastic statues in a round-about. I'd love to be able to take the traffic light out of the picture, but that skill is beyond my meager talents, so you can use it as contrast...art vs. technology. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
07:21 PM Post #6742966
| Before the rice can be planted in the prepared terraces and paddies, it has to sit in water for a while. This paddy has been invaded by a large herd (?) of ducks. I was aghast that all their work would be for nought, but then Gede explained that the ducks eat the bugs and such that would hurt the rice, so they are actually beneficial. We were on our way to a restaurant called The Dirty Duck, so the timing for this little encounter couldn't have been better. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
07:47 PM Post #6743063
| Well, I can't find the pictures we took at the Dirty Duck, so I will show you these instead. I can't remember the name of this restaurant, but it was amazing. This pic is just to prove that this WAS a restaurant! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
07:49 PM Post #6743079
| This was the view! The ridge you can see across the valley from the restaurant was used by trekkers (hikers). We saw a few during our meal. I don't know how they got up there, but apparently people start walking at dawn in order to watch the sunset from up here on the ridge. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
07:54 PM Post #6743098
| Here is a picture that shows more of the valley between the restaurant and the ridge. You can almost see the river at the bottom, but we could certainly hear it. Just so you don't think that we were dining at the fanciest places...this was a typical restaurant...prices right around 6 or 7 dollars a meal. It was incredible to me that shops and restaurants lined the street, and right behind them was THIS! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
07:56 PM Post #6743108
| Again looking down into the valley. Obviously there was another floor to this restaurant, but Gede always managed to get us the best tables! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
08:00 PM Post #6743132
| The doves here in this Jackfruit tree kept us musically entertained while we watched some trekkers on the ridge. And just so you know, not only was the view incredible, the prices reasonable (cheap!!) and the ambiance spectacular, the food was really great as well! We were commenting just the other day, that we didn't have a mediocre or bad meal the entire time we were in Bali. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
08:04 PM Post #6743153
| Okay, after we left the restaurant and were heading back to our hotel, we finally got a shot of this very interesting stone statue in yet another round-about. It is purported to be a smiling Buddah, but everyone calls it the "baby statue". What do you think? A Buddah or a baby? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 26, 2009
08:41 PM Post #6743337
| Last one for today. I wish I could show you the detail on this remarkable piece. but hopefully I can show you enough to persuade you to see for yourself. Just magnificent.
See you tomorrow!
Yokwe,
Shari
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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pepper23
KC Metro area, MO
(Zone 5b)
June 26, 2009
09:45 PM Post #6743661
| Great pics Shari!!! Can't wait to see more!! |
extranjera
Mérida
Mexico
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
01:40 AM Post #6744410
| Beautiful! The wood carving is just incredible. I loved it. Thanks for posting these, I'm enthralled. |
lourspolaire
Delray Beach, FL
(Zone 10a)
June 27, 2009
11:27 AM Post #6745331
| Thank you for these minutes of bliss.
I loved the columnar sculpture depicting dolphins and waves. Had I been there, that one would have found its way to my home quickly.
I can quite easily remove the traffic light from the statue in the roundabout. Just let me know if you are interested. I'll give you my email address where you can send the camera's original file. A bit of PhotoShop work is little to pay for the pleasure this thread brought me. Don't be shy.
That second statue in a roundabout definitely looks like Buddah to me. But again, I could be wrong.
Take care, all.
Sylvain.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
05:28 PM Post #6746531
| Oh thank you Sylvain! I will let you know. My DD has been threatening to teach me Photo Shop...she says that the way I love to post pics, I really need to learn it, so maybe I will give it a try. But I may want to send you the original just so I have a back-up! Yes, that piece was one of my favorites too! But we had a weight limitation, and shipping is HORRIBLE. I am looking into a work-around, and I will let you know what I find out.
Glad you found these Pepper! Been missing your goofy 'LOL"...ha ha.
Buenos dias extranjera!
Well folks, I think I can finally wrap things up today. Depending on the computer spirits of course. So let's get started. Todays excursions will be taking us to two temple areas on the sea, and a bonsai garden. We are starting at Pura Tanah Lot (JB says "no...but I burn well"), from which we will look across to Pura Batu, and vice versa.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
05:31 PM Post #6746540
| As you can see, the setting here is quite magical...and it is an exceptionally revered temple. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
05:34 PM Post #6746545
| The walkway to the rather unimpressive building is very narrow...with eroding cliffs on each side. Suprisingly enough, accidents are extremely rare. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
05:36 PM Post #6746550
| As you can see, it is very old. It was closed off, apparently being opened only for temple ceremonies. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
05:44 PM Post #6746577
| From Pura Batu, we look across and see Pura Tanah Lot. Actually what you see here is the busy tourist village surrounding the approach to the temple. Because of the dramatic sunset views of this temple, busloads of day-trippers are brought from resorts and hotels all over Bali. The mushrooming vendor stalls now sell everything from sarongs to Gucci bags and tattoos. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
05:50 PM Post #6746595
| Along the temple approach, you can see that even though commerce is on their minds, the Balinese people still take the time each day to prepare their offerings which can be seen on the street in front of each stall. There are also many of the bamboo poles - indicating that the vendors in these stalls are probably from a mountain area originally. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:04 PM Post #6746651
| People come up with the strangest things to lure you into their shop! This guy had a bat in front of his shop and offered "snake viewing" inside! Funny, I had always thought of bats as being black, but this one was definately a reddish brown. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:06 PM Post #6746656
| And he was big! That's my arm next to him...wouldn't want to run into him in the dead of night! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:13 PM Post #6746679
| Finally we get out to the area where the temple can be seen. Sitting just off the southwest coast, dramatically marooned on a craggy wave-battered rock, the Pura Tanah Lot shines as one of the unofficial symbols of Bali. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:21 PM Post #6746717
| We are now standing on the cliffs that can be seen on the left side of the previous picture. It was high-tide, so we were unable to go over to the Temple itself, but I understand that during ceremonies the lines are nearly a mile long to get there. No tourists at that time...only "praying peoples", as the signs say. The sound of the waves crashing against this 16th century marvel, and the eerie sounds coming from the caves lead a bit of credence to the mythology of its birth. Supposedly a wandering Hindu priest saw a beam of light shining on a sacred spring within the rock at the base of this cliff. He meditated so hard that he caused the rock to break off from the cliff and move out into the water where he built his temple. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:23 PM Post #6746729
| We posed for required picture to send home to the kids... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:25 PM Post #6746736
| While Gede climbed down to catch some spray from the holy waters. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:28 PM Post #6746748
| We managed to get a shot of the cave of the Holy Snake, but he wouldn't come out to say Howdy. Guess he didn't like high tide either. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:32 PM Post #6746760
| This wasn't the Holy Snake, but he was an 80 lb python that just fascinated JB. I'm not sure who was hypnotizing whom here, but later JB told me it was a battle of muscles, and he lost. He was trying to get the snake to turn its head...didn't work. Instead it just looks like they are staring into each other's eyes. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:33 PM Post #6746768
| Looks like he's having fun, huh? I mean JB...not the snake. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:42 PM Post #6746815
| This place really lived up to its name! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:50 PM Post #6746847
| Well, I never promised you a rose garden, but I did promise a bonsai garden. So here ya go. This place had hundreds of bonsai, created from some of the most unorthodox plants for the art! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:51 PM Post #6746852
| Okay...looks like the computer spirits decided to play some games...those last two pics got reversed...at least that's what it looks like at this point...I may have to make an offering or two...
Anyway, this cafe was really a showplace. I think he built the cafe to support his habit for bonsai!
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:52 PM Post #6746861
| Sorry...I'm out of words! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
06:55 PM Post #6746873
| We spent a little time watching them create one of these, then had a delicious meal and set off for our next adventure. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:02 PM Post #6746903
| On our way to Uluwatu, we passed this grove of crocodile trees. I had been curious ever since the carvers had told me about it, so Gede stopped and I wandered around. You can see how it got its name...I am going to do some further research after I finish posting these pics. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:08 PM Post #6746931
| When I was going through the pictures, I decided that these magnificent vistas taken from the Pura Luhur Ululwatu would be the ones I would leave you with. For those of you in land-locked areas, if these pictures don't move your hearts, nothing will. For those of you in the islands...these pictures of the Indian Ocean and the verdant cliffs of Bali will be a different image to reinforce your decisions to live by the sea...Enjoy: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:13 PM Post #6746952
| Along with the breathtaking beauty of this scene, you can see the arena on the left where many of the traditional dances are perfomed. The ideal Bali experience would be to arrive here in Uluwatu about an hour before sunset, wander around and visit with the resident macaques for a while, watch the sunset and thank the gods for eyes to behold such wonders, then make your candlelit way up to the arena to watch the Fire Dance in this sublime setting. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:15 PM Post #6746962
| A closer view of the arena: 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:20 PM Post #6746988
| The temple itself is not imposing, yet it reaches into your mind with a dignity and grace that defy logic. Originally built in the 10th century, and rebuilt in the 16th, by two of the Hindu religions most holy men, you can't help but whisper in the presence of these ancient coral blocks. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:23 PM Post #6746992
| Pura Luhur Uluwatu is now sanctified as one of Bali's sacred directional temples. It is the guardian of the southwest and is dedicated to the spirits of the sea. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:26 PM Post #6747005
| Surrounded by this otherworldly view...is it any wonder that this place is special to the Bali people, as well as to visitors? 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:32 PM Post #6747018
| I hope you have enjoyed my windows into Bali. If I have encouraged any of you to visit this tiny jewel of Indonesia, I am overjoyed. I would be happy to share any info you may need. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 27, 2009
07:34 PM Post #6747024
| Om santi, santi, santi, om... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
tropicbreeze
noonamah
Australia
June 27, 2009
09:06 PM Post #6747401
| I'm booked well ahead for my treks and holidays (well ahead of my wallet as well) but I've lots of friends who are going within the next several months. Will have to slot it in sometime. Thanks for the pictorial visit and the very informative story. |
goofybulb
El Paso, TX
(Zone 8a)
June 27, 2009
09:44 PM Post #6747541
| Shari, it's just beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing your trip with us, I bet your smiling eyes captured even more beauty. It's an unbelievable place, and I just wish you could have stayed longer, so our e-trip would last longer too! Magical, breathtaking, fantastic!
|
pepper23
KC Metro area, MO
(Zone 5b)
June 27, 2009
10:47 PM Post #6747787
| Thanks for sharing Shari!! And tell JB that he is waaaaaay braver than me cause you won't catch me getting that close to a snake!! They avoid me and I avoid them and everyone is happy. LOL |
Marcy_1
New Madison, OH
(Zone 5a)
June 27, 2009
11:12 PM Post #6747884
| Thank you Shari! I really enjoyed it! This is the closest I will ever come to Bali...Thanks again!! |
Braveheartsmom
Kihei, HI
(Zone 11)
June 28, 2009
02:08 AM Post #6748269
| Great armchair vacation! Thanks for posting all those wonderful pictures and taking us along with you to Bali. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
June 28, 2009
03:53 PM Post #6750226
| I am glad you have enjoyed our little cyber trip! I wish I could twitch my nose and take you all there in person, but as they say "If wishes were horses, we'd be drowning in horseshit" or something like that. Oh yes Tropicbreeze, you are so close, with so many options, you really owe it to yourself to go. I'm sure that this thread just seemed to go on forever, but there we just so many things I wanted to show you all. Thank you all for allowing me this opportunity to share a part of my heart.
Yokwe,
Shari |
RachelLF
Rural Retreat, VA
June 28, 2009
09:00 PM Post #6751410
| Thank You Shari! The picture's of the wood sculpture's did knock my sock's off, the lion's in particular. There were several more that I would admire owning.
The picture's of Pura Luhur Ululwatu made me sink more into my seat as I viewed each one. I let each picture sink in before I went to the next. Stunning and absolutely beautiful. I have visited some great Tropical place's in my life but I have now added Bali to the list of place's I must visit. I could ramble but...
Thank you so much.
Rachel
I
|
lourspolaire
Delray Beach, FL
(Zone 10a)
June 29, 2009
10:56 AM Post #6753570
| Another blissful virtual visit to Bali. I saw the thread in the New Thread watcher but I didn't have the proper amount of time to check up on it. This is to savored bit by bit, not read on the diagonal as I sometimes do when time is scarce. One doesn't want to that and miss out on this pleasure. Thank you so much for all the time and effort you put into this, Shari.
Big kisses.
Sylvain. |
Texasgal77
Baytown, TX
(Zone 9a)
July 06, 2009
01:03 AM Post #6783191
| Shari, so glad that you had a good trip and are home safely. Thanks for sharing the pictures. We've missed you! So glad to have you back!
Jeanne
|
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
July 06, 2009
05:40 PM Post #6785985
| Hi Jeanne! Hope you enjoyed the pictures. How ya doin? We are in the middle of a storm here, and I can't help thinking about your swing set/green house. My plants are all getting waaaay too much water! Would that I had your ingenuity!
Yokwe,
Shari |
Texasgal77
Baytown, TX
(Zone 9a)
July 07, 2009
12:40 AM Post #6787679
| Hi Shari,
I'm ok. I've been down for awhile. Just taking it easy. My pink bromeliades that were in that "swing house" as Randy called it, are huge and in bloom! I'll have to get their picture. They are soooo pretty!
This year we will have the new patio cover to enclose with the plastic, so we won't have to move so much. My plumerias are starting to bloom. I have plumeria seedlings coming up from my big yellow tree...the seeds really germinated well and the little plants look great! I also have some baby brugs from a seedpod.
It is so hot here and we've had no rain for a few days. We are down 7 1/2" of rain. It is supposed to rain tomorrow. We sure could use it! You can send me your rain.
Aloha and Yokwe,
Jeanne
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
katiebear
mulege
Mexico
July 14, 2009
01:23 PM Post #6818597
| Thank you, Shari, for the beautiful picture and narrative.
kb |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
July 14, 2009
07:46 PM Post #6820017
| Hi Katie! I'm glad you got a chance to see this. You work so hard, I just assumed you'd probably miss em, happy that I was wrong. Take more time to rest my friend.
To any and all other lurkers...I sincerely hope you enjoy.
Yokwe,
Shari |
lourspolaire
Delray Beach, FL
(Zone 10a)
July 15, 2009
01:49 PM Post #6823064
| With 249 posts and 1432 views, this thread has attracted an average number of lurkers. Nonetheless, those are great statistics, a testimony to the quality of your photography and narrative. Thanks again, Shari.
Sylvain. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
July 21, 2009
06:49 PM Post #6847964
| Was asked to bump this up, someone - who shall remain nameless - said she couldn't find it. |
goofybulb
El Paso, TX
(Zone 8a)
July 22, 2009
02:28 AM Post #6849769
| And a good thing you did, Shari! I took some time today, and revisited Bali through your eyes and posts!
Hugs,
Alexandra |
LEIGHTONHILL
Falmouth, ME
(Zone 5b)
August 12, 2009
08:06 AM Post #6937766
| Shari; I'm truly envious! What a gorgeous place. The monkeys... oh how I would love to see them. If there is more of your writings and pictures of your travels that I am missing, please give me (or Dmail me) the links... There are a few places I would like to see some day and now, added to the list, is Bali. Most of my interest in traveling is seeing the natural attractions and meeting the local people and learning about their culture. Bali looks like something to see! Thanks for sharing. Lisa |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
August 12, 2009
04:48 PM Post #6939471
| Lisa, thank you for the kind comments, and I am so pleased that you enjoyed the pictures. Bali is a wonderful place, and I would love to share it with everyone! If you are really looking for more of my writing, just click on my name, and a list of my articles can be found on my home page. They are not really about my travels, but about life here on Kwaj. Hope to see more of you here in the Tropical Gardening Forum!
Yokwe,
Shari |
rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
August 12, 2009
05:40 PM Post #6939621
| Shari, Passport arrived yesterday. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
August 12, 2009
05:43 PM Post #6939636
| WooooHooooo!!!!! Do you feel like a whole person now? Ha Ha...you know I'm kidding! Did you see the posts that we are planning to be in Conus in the March time frame,...with a couple of days in TX for sure?
Yokwe,
Shari |
rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
August 12, 2009
06:09 PM Post #6939723
| nooooooo... I did not...where are the posts? |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
August 12, 2009
06:23 PM Post #6939779
| Ummm, not sure...ha ha! Anyway, daughter Nina is pregnant and will be going home to CO for the birth sometime in March. We will go home for a couple of weeks to be there on the auspicious day, then do some visiting...planning on a couple of days in the Dallas area, were hoping you could come up. Nothing carved in stone yet, and unfortuneately no set days yet...babies are notoriously fickle! But tentatively how does that sound to you?
Yokwe,
Shari |
rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
August 12, 2009
07:39 PM Post #6940040
| okay...well if your flying CO, I suppose I could drive you there unless your throwing it in that big ticket! |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
August 12, 2009
11:35 PM Post #6940922
| We have lots of time to plan the details, but I certainly wouldn't expect you to do that!
Yokwe,
Shari |
rjuddharrison
Houston, TX
(Zone 9a)
August 13, 2009
10:07 AM Post #6942025
| Okay,
|
Texasgal77
Baytown, TX
(Zone 9a)
August 30, 2009
03:50 AM Post #7003797
| Shari, a new Grand BABY, that's WONDERFUL! Congrat's! Any names picked out yet? That's super!
Here's a little piece of my jungle...
Aloha and Yokwe
Jeanne
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
LouC
Desoto, TX
(Zone 8a)
August 30, 2009
11:43 AM Post #7004613
| After Bali, afraid DeSoto Texas will an awful let down. Can't wait! lalalalal |
Texasgal77
Baytown, TX
(Zone 9a)
August 30, 2009
11:21 PM Post #7006986
| Christi, you have a lovely home and garden!! Plus, DeSoto has YOU, Bali doesn't!
...There's no comparison! Shari will love being in YOUR home!!!!!!!!!!! Plus It's TEXAS! haha!
Note: In the original post I inadvertantly left the "i" off of the end of your name Christi. I sincerely apologize for the typo, and the way it made the post read. I apologize to anyone who was offended by this error; it was NOT intentional! Please forgive me, and I will be much more careful with my typing in the future!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you DG Admin for editing the post. I am very proud to be apart of an organization of this calibur. Thank you!
Happy Gardening Everyone!
This message was edited Sep 13, 2009 11:14 PM |
astcgirl
Brandon, FL
(Zone 9b)
September 10, 2009
09:24 AM Post #7047136
| Wow, I just got finished with your beautiful trip to Bali, it bought back a lot of memories of when I went there many years ago. It is such a beautiful and magical place. I'm originally from Australia so it was a quick trip for me (actually it was a college trip with my class). I stayed in Sanur and Ubud also, it's amazing what they do with their gardens in those hotels! Would love to go back there again, but now we live in Florida and it's a bit too far away. Thank you for posting all the wonderful photos and commentary. I loved it. |
Islandshari
Kwajalein
Marshall Islands
(Zone 11)
September 10, 2009
10:55 PM Post #7049933
| You are most welcome! I am so glad that you enjoyed the pics, and that they brought back your memories of this wonderful place.
Yokwe,
Shari |
Texasgal77
Baytown, TX
(Zone 9a)
September 14, 2009
12:19 AM Post #7061651
| Shari, your journey was truly remarkable!. You both are great photographers !
I miss your wonderful articles. You should write more often.
|
