A Magical Land
We had 3 days left in Bali and we were feeling the urgency to see more of the island. The group was scheduled for 2 more days of private tours with Wayan so we eagerly joined in. Highlights include Pura Ulu Danu, a stunningly beautiful temple on a picturesque lake in the mountains, the spice market at Candi Kunning, more incredible rice terrace views (these ones were designated a World UNESCO Site), a butterfyl garden, a village where the locals continue to live and work (weaving/woodwork) in more traditional ways and the 17thc Klungkung palace/museum that was quite fascinating. At one open temple at the palace was an ornate chair on which, as Wayan explained, the ruler of the day would sit and check out the usually topless women passing by on the street for potential new “wives” (Balinese men traditionally had—and some still do—more than one wife).
The third day Kelly and I decided to break away from the group for a private tour of our own. Our plan was to head south to the coast to check a few beaches, temples and shopping opportunities. Heading into Denpasar, we got sidetracked by a huge silver jewelry factory and showroom. After a quick tour of the factory, where dozens of workers sit hunched over a desk transforming silver strands and gems into works of wearable art, we perused the huge showroom, trying to restrain ourselves from spending all of our rupiahs! The jewellery was stunning, one-of-a-kind and somewhat inflated in price for the tourist. However we succumbed to temptation…and both of us came away with some beautiful pieces. Next door to the showroom an enormous jewellery museum was being built…obviously silver jewellery is held in high regard by both Balinese and tourists alike.
On our tour of the south coast we stopped briefly at Ulu Watu temple, populated by mischievous monkeys, checked out a viewpoint over secluded Patong Patong beach, had fresh seafood for lunch on Jimbaran beach, explored the designer shops of Seminyak (or, to be honest, ducked in and out of shops simply to escape the heat and humidity) and spent a few hours on beach loungers watching the sun set. It was a marvellous day, and we both agreed it was a good decision to head south on our own with Wayan.
On our final afternoon Wayan drove the 6 of us to a pristine and very secluded beach (he called it “Virgin” Beach) to swim and relax. Driving about a kilometre down the dirt road to the small beach was an adventure in itself but Wayan skillfully navigated around the holes, divots and numerous locals on motorbikes. After a yummy lunch we spent a lot of time cooling off in the clear warm water. Margo and I decided to try snorkelling along the rocks (gear was cheaply rented nearby) but I saw only a few colourful fish. But otherwise it was pure heaven…a marvellous way to end our Bali vacation.
We had our group farewell dinner that evening…delicious food cooked by Sitti and enjoyed by the group and a few other guests of the resort. There was a wonderful camaraderie amongst the group and a tinge of sadness for the impending end to a fantastic adventure. I am grateful to Kelly for inviting me along on this trip, and I am blessed to have met some wonderful women. I have travelled to a number of Asian countries, but Bali stands unique for its culture (esp. dance and music), its beautiful landscapes (fields, mountains and beaches) and the gentleness and kindness of its people. It is a magical land!
