Here’s a picture of heaven, beautiful Kuta Beach Bali, this afternoon. There were Euro’s and Aussies on the beach, as well as people enjoying the gentle waves, on this windless afternoon. Under the trees, drink sellers, bakso vendors and board renters got comfortable, and adjusted to the slow pace of business. I saw an older tourist enjoying a game of chess with a locals, and some Japanese ladies giggle, at Balinese boys hoisting their friend into a tree.
My house in Seminyak has 5 of us staying here right now. As well as myself are Ika, Jevon, Awang and Ningrum. We have a on of food and I will bbq some steak and chicken later on. Nyepi means we cannot leave the house, even for a minute, the pecalang will be patrolling and will be angry if they see us outside. I’m not Hindu but being in Bali respect their religious beliefs.
While sitting at the babi guling stand at the crossroads at Lodtunduh, I was joined by a Balinese fellow in his 30’s named Ketut Arsana. We chatted and Ketut told me he was married to one of the ladies at the stand and had a 12 year old kid. These people start early. Ketut is an artist and a dancer, with a studio, Ayong located in Batuan. That area is rich for artists as Ketut explained ‘whatever style of art you want, in Batuan there are too many artists.”
Poinciana is a small place my brother and I stumbled on last year. It has obviously been made by someone who cares about quality and the section of coast is peaceful and quiet. The owner is Nyoman from Kuta, who is a unique lady. After spending 20 years in Australia and picking up an Aussie accent, she decided to move back to Bali and start Poinciana.
Ika told me that today is a special day for Muslims in Indonesia. I did a short interview with her to learn why. The occassion is Idul Adha and it originates from the Quran. Killing a sheep for a feast is a signature of this day. I’ll probably not take part, although I’m into the food part. Today is a national holiday, so banks and government buildings are closed.
Name: Jos
Age: 21
From: Flores
Occupation: Gardener
How long in Bali: 2 years
Laura introduced me to her friend and driver last night. Immediately I got good vibes from him and learned that his name is Roy and he is from Gianyar. We chatted a bit in Bahasa Indonesia and drove to Sanur. Laura has used Roy the last few times she has been to Bali. The hotel staff offer their own driver, but Laura prefers Roy. She told me that he is a considerate and honest fellow. Often when they go around and she offers him lunch, he will politely decline, prefering to stay in the car.
The owner and operator of Pawitra Sari Gallery in Mas, is Putu. He was kind enough to show me round and explain a few things. When I visited the gallery was empty, except for the ladies outside making baskets. I asked the prices and they told me between 200,000-400,000rp depending on the size. Feel free to negotiate. I did not ask the the prices of the paintings or carvings. The Ubud area is full of galleries, most of which are showrooms, with a single or a handful of artists offering their work. I sense this place is trying to be more, but they need a lot more stuff on show.
Name: Yani
Age: 25
From:
Kalimantan
Occupation:
Staff La Cabana in Kuta
How long in Bali: 10 months
Classic Cafe is one of a handful of places that have opened on the beach side of Discovery Mall Shoping Center in Tuban. Classic Cafe features affordably priced western and Indonesian food, as well as drinks and is a great place for an afternoon snack or evening drink. During the mornings and afternoon, this whole beach side of the Mall is busy with shoppers. Later on in the evening its quietens down, but Classic Cafe has music most nights of the week, going till late.