Dharma: 'do I have a death wish?', Once again he's transporting me - this time from
Ubud to Tejakula. He showed up with a frangapangi flower tucked behind his ear, smilin'
and smellin' (just like a flower) and was a reformed man. Dharma drove as slowly as a Richmond resident on a Saturday afternoon on #3 Road (Richmond Centre). He apologized to me for the 'crazy driving' on Saturday when Sandra and I hired him for the trip back to Ubud. Then proceeded to ask me an awful lot of personal questions: Did I miss Sandra? Was I married? Did I have children? (I stressed my daughter and 2 GRANDSONS), How old was I? (REALLY old) Did I have a boyfriend? Where was he?...... I asked back: so what is your WIFE's name? how long have you been married....! It was a long drive over the mountain!
GIAI OASIS YOGA RESORT
No I am NOT becoming a yoga/spa resort groupie. NO, NO, NOOOO!
Maybe I have just a little backpacker shame. Have I lost my edge? Become a softie?
India will tell the true story!
Snokelling off the Beach Resort: I'm the only one in warm green waters. Yawn.
same old, same old. yellow and black striped fish, the purple with yellow eyeliner and green-
touched fin guys, oh! there is my fav, the boring grey fish perfectly outlined in florescent
blue/green; then some colorful coral. I think this is a pretty nice way to wake up to the day.
Suddenly, barely in my perithial vision a large movement to my left. my heartrate increases
rapidly. 'Flight or fight' adrenaline and my nasty (hidden) companion
'Fear and Insecurity' hits my brain. What AM I doing wayyyy out here all by myself???? My
relaxed, comfortable state of mind and body is suddenly a distant memory. Then 'IT' rapidly
comes into view, swimming just below me: a gorgeous very large turtle!!! Deep red back,
greenish sides and fins! He acts as if I am not even there, gently swimming beside me, then
rising up to the surface for a breath of air. I am thrilled. All common sense flees and as he
picks up speed I follow him, heading to open waters, into dangerous pounding surf and crashing
reefs fraught with wild hungry sharks, terrible dolphins..... (yeh, sure!). My first Bali Turtle sighting.
Note to self: Not all yoga instructors are equal. Giai is a fraction of the costly dwellings Sandra and I
had for 3 days, and yoga classes were extremely good, but with a fee. Heard of 'you get
what you pay for'? Well, yoga is free here at Giai. So. Our guy is very skilled at yoga poses. He can tie himself in a knot; stand on one leg with the opposite foot tucked into his testicles for 10 minutes while arms are straight up to the ceiling and head back to shoulder blades; followed by the next
impossible pose and breathing exercise:
Inhale at MAX EE MIMM (maximum) for 30 seconds; SUSSS-PEEND for 45 seconds, release slowwwly (yeah right) while also moving from sitting to push up position, then to 'cobra' and to back flip in co-ordination with the breathing (sure thing, toots).
Finally he moves us into our final position for the 7 am Yoga for No-One Class. Lay-on-your-back pose, a mind control/concentration exercise. I don't want to brag, but I excel at this position. He instructs us to close our eyes, visualize our selves outside our bodies (this actually happened to me as soon as he started the class), I am now desperate for a cup of coffee. I am visualizing my body dashing upstairs for a cup as I lay there. And lay there. There is only me and one other participant.
We continue to ....lay there. Nothing is happening. I crack open one eye just a fraction of an eyelash. Can't see him. I wait another few minutes, try the other eye. I see a white clad Yogi in a very still prone position. Minutes tick by. It's now wayyyyy too long to have mine, or anyone's body separated from itself. The other woman starts to twitch as well. Finally our eyes met and in silent agreement we sit up. There in front of us is our fearless leader. Exhausted after his great yoga work out, sound asleep!!! We got up, rolled our mats and limped away, leaving him in dreamland!
Didn't do yoga this morning!
I am surrounded by women. German and Swiss Women. I've heard a few very interesting Stories That Women Tell. Most of them regarding Balinese Men and more specifically Taxi Divers. However, in spite of some juicy confidential tid bits, I feel a bit of an 'English only' odd ball - combined with being an obvious 'budget backpacker' who is not eagerly booking massages, facials, and other forms of pampering. Nevertheless, I find my basic posh needs are met very nicely thank you. A lovely room with ocean and jungle views; queen sized bed with a really good mattress (not the sweaty foamy at Gusti's) and linens (the sheet is fitted! and no knobby round things), REAL pillows I can actually lay my head on and snuggle in; mozzie net with no holes, a fan that does not squeek or wobble, an amazing outdoor Bali Bathroom, my very own fridge, tea kettle, outside lounge and table, two nice chairs. Free tea, coffee, bottled water, tropical fruit and afternoon 3 pm goodies: cake and tea'. The place comes with all the sound effects you could possibly want: 24 hour roosters, chickens, twilight frogs, crickets, geckos.... and other various forms of noisy life! Oh and I must add
a very interesting frog porn show beside the pond, in the valley, and the streams: apparently a monthly (full moon) event!!!
There is a free shuttle to the village and the beach. My current expenses average CND $35/day - room and dinner. Being the (cheap) smart cookie I am, I brought food for breakfast and lunch for 4 days :) OK you can bet I am the first one showing up for complimentary cake at 3 pm... !!! Oh I forgot to mention the salt water swimming pool! Sandra: please note, it is complete with little Bali
swallows that skim the water constantly! So I think your experience at Gusti's was not likely bats? However that being said it's a bit disconcerting to have these guys constantly skimming the water all around me. They are hyper little feathered missiles - the kind that test my nerves. They LOOK like they have decent flying abilities, but how close can they really swoop by without getting tangled in my hair?
Shaman Session with Jero Dar
1) Massage, Chakra check-up, health scan,
2) Meditation
3) Temple Blessing
4) Consultation with Shaman and translator.
Selective Information (additional details MAY be provided upon request, in person only :)!)
Tejakula Village
Balinese speaking only, interpreter present in person prior to and following the session, and present outside a curtained area during treatment session.
Environment: family compound and temple
Initial Consultation: seated at a small wooden table with Shaman and Interpreter. Served sweetened tea, sipped while chickens and chicks clucked around my feet, dogs roamed through, and children playing in the yard.
I asked for some history:
I learned that, from a very early age, as long as he can remember, he could see non-physical presence as well as physical bodies. Jero Dar was unaware he was able to see what others could not, and that he had a gift, Then, as a young man, he became very ill and consulted with a healer. At the same time he was seeking help, he met another young man having a similar experience. They were both advised to return to the temple in Tejakula for prayer, meditation and guidence. Eventually he was advised by a healer of two choices: become a priest or a healer. He wanted to work with people directly and choose to become a healer .
Prior to my session, a family member brought him several bright green leaves just a bit larger than his hand, which he held in both hands, then brought to his forehead in prayer.
I gave verbal permission for the shaman to physically touch me. I was advised I needed to take my clothes off. I thought this meant outer clothes. This was an incorrect assumption. The 'room' was similar to a 3 -walled patio with curtains pulled on the open end. A thin mattress was flat on the floor, and the shaman sat in lotus position beside it. Massage oil base was coconut oil with unidentified flowers and herbs. He gestured for me to lay down, belly up at first. Next position was belly down/butt up followed by seated with back to him. Final position was seated, facing him. At no time did I feel uncomfortable, I intuitively trusted him and he was kind, gentle and as professional as you could expect a non English speaking Balanese Shaman to be!
First: A full body massage with strong focus on each specific chakra area. (as described above)
Second: Meditation (seated, facing each other).
Third: Temple Blessing
Dressed in a sarong, my 'payment' was an offering to the temple of R 150,000. Prior to
entering the temple I sipped water out of his cupped palms 3 times. The water had various
flower petals, twigs/herbs in it. The rest of it was splashed over my head and face.
Note: I need you to work with me here. Just to be clear: Did you notice I've been thoroughly soaked and rubbed - hair included - with a liter of coconut oil. With herbs. Then I slurp holy water -with twigs, flowers, etc - not once but THREE times from closed palms, THEN about 2 litres of water - with twigs, flowerc, etc is dumped over.... oily hair. This is not a lovely vision!!! I guess I shoudl add: to top it all off, I drank a whole entire glass of water to help me swallow 'something' on my tongue - herbal 'remedy'.
Now, I am able to enter the temple for a blessing and on completion, a woven black, red, and white string bracelette is tied on my right wrist. I am not to deliberately remove it for 6 months.
The colors represent the Gods of Protection: Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu (as mentioned several blogs ago
- remember?).
Last: Consultation with Shaman and Interpreter
First: a brief overview regarding both my physical and spiritual health, and then I am
invited to ask my questions.... and so I did!
How about you - any questions???? Smiles to you too!
36 Hours Post-Drinking Holy Water
all morning in the bathroom (no futher details necessary!), all afternoon with ginger tea and water, evening, veggie soup and dry toast! Hey the next day good as new!
Monday, 12 December 2011
Monday, 5 December 2011
Abandoned in Bali!
Oh - Oh after 10> days where to start?! Please... read on with NO expectations of orderly thoughts and certainly not chronological order!
Sandra: although she is no angel (oops, 'nough said!) she sprouted wings and flew into yesterday.. leaving me here in the tropics alone. I'm only missing her when it's morning 'do you want to swim after breakfast and before we head out for the day? Or miss the pool and come back by 2 pm?' and when it's time to share happy hour 2:1 Arak Mojitos at Mingles, or splitting Nasi Goreng and Black Rice Pudding with Coconut milk (oh, and one scoop vanilla ice cream pls). Well I could go on and on... it was so sad to see her leave after a fantastic month together in Bali. I do recommend her as a travel companion but you need to understand a few quirks (I of course have none) about Little Hawk:
- She is prone to unintentionally insulting smokers. Example in an Ubud restaurant/bar sharing a table with smokers (and being surrounded by... smokers. and changing tables to avoid/minimize... smoke). A 'new' couple sits down to share our table. Sandra identified them as non smokers by the fact they were not (currently) smoking. She leans over and in a friendly manner states 'it's so nice to finally have people who don't smoke... sit with us. Then a little additional side note which we both blanked out on, but the gist of it being 'it's great to enjoy our drinks without .... (you fill it in). They turn a shade paler, appear somewhat less than comfortable, and yes admit in fact they DO smoke. Sandra then says 'oh, but that's FINE, REALLY just go ahead it won't bother us at ALLLL) Use your imagination here. We did not engage in any idle chit chat with this nice couple! Nor did they light up!
- Sandra has been known to scream out loud in the middle of the night SHERRRRYYYYYY! Or AHHHDGGDGG!!! Normally this occurs in the darkest hours, when we are both in our REM cycle. It can be just a little troubling..... :) but also entertaining!
- She's an awesome mozzie attraction, but tends to look a little ..well the only word is 'lumpy' at 67 red swollen bites
- Is a relentless sarong shopper....
- Does not share her (beautiful, new) TWO dresses purchased in Ubud
- Has Nicole Kidman hair when she let's it go in ocean breezes (personally my biggest resentment)
So we made it back from Shangrila Spa and Meditation Resort on the North Island in Bondalem. Yep that was our big 3 day get away and we relished every single moment. Loved the yoga classes. Crazy about the pool and gardens. Our 'Krishna Villa' was simply amazing. We made the most of our exotic, luxerious surroundings and was a fantastic finish to our trip together.
Dharma - our 'found' Balinese Taxi Driver. We could write a book on the way this guy drives! Dharma is a gentle, kind, communitive 50-ish man who turns into an absolute terror behind the wheel. We've white-knuckled our way on 2 long distance trips and 3 local jaunts. Why you ask, do we keep doing it? Because he keeps giving the best deal in town, has a nice air-con car, and makes me feel like a survivor. I hired him yet again today for a trip to the International Travel Clinic in Ubud (for immunizations, which turns out to NOT be cheaper here, but $250 more than Canada. Kind of a wasted trip, but there you go!). Once again he gave me a great price, now saying because Sandra and I are his friends. Today I watched and learned how to use the 2 turn lanes to advantage by: scooting over to pass every one in our lane, nudging 2 motor scooters, one bike, and a bus out of the way, then JUST as it's too late to do it - squeeze into a 3 foot space between a heavily loaded truck and a mini bus.... There! back in our lane!
Motor bike rental
Sherry was a cowardly failure, wobbling over cobble stones, nearly wiping out the local rooster, and even more humiliating diving to the wrong side (right) of the road whenever someone came towards me. Sandra is the local hero (another grudge I have) by taking to it like she was a local, plus she looked great! Actually I looked pretty good too, I have to say. The huge helmet covered up sweaty, stringy hair and I appeared happy (in the photo you may get to see. if I ever get them on here.)
Kokorans
Whatz it?? The most lovely heron ever, that's what! The reside for several months of the year, during baby season, 3 kms out of Ubud in Banjar. Dressed in soft, fluffy white feathers (body) and even softer gold feathers on head and part of the wing, with bright round beady little eyes, and a long-ish sharp-ish yellow beak, they cover local trees preening, stretching, and fluffing. And posing for photos. (will post one, honest...)
Sherry's Rented Villa
You just have to believe in serindepity (SANDRA!!! spell check please). Well you guys are smart and know what I mean! Four days after giving a deposit Sandra and I ran into one of the (two) room mates at a little blues bar/restaurant. Now this lady is sitting no more than 4 feet from us, with her back to us. We notice her. When the band takes a break, I go over to say 'hi'. Not only does she not say hello, nor does she turn or acknowledge us in any way other than a 'grunt' noise. Over the next hour, 'Joyella' walks by us 3 times with... no joy at all for the likes of me! The other roomy was leaving end of November and I was due to share paradise with a very hostile, or wierd, or ??? woman. Sandra and I looked open-mouthed at each other throughout the evening - and the next morning I called cancelling the whole arrangement. I did get my deposit back, which I am grateful for. I'm even more grateful to be exposed to this behaviour BEFORE moving in.
NOW
Tomorrow I am heading to Tejekula (North again) for a much less expensive (aka cheaper) yoga 'retreat'.
Thank you for the emails, I really appreciate your prayers, good wishes and thoughts for Sheryl. She is constantly on my mind, and it will be so good to get home soon.
Sandra: although she is no angel (oops, 'nough said!) she sprouted wings and flew into yesterday.. leaving me here in the tropics alone. I'm only missing her when it's morning 'do you want to swim after breakfast and before we head out for the day? Or miss the pool and come back by 2 pm?' and when it's time to share happy hour 2:1 Arak Mojitos at Mingles, or splitting Nasi Goreng and Black Rice Pudding with Coconut milk (oh, and one scoop vanilla ice cream pls). Well I could go on and on... it was so sad to see her leave after a fantastic month together in Bali. I do recommend her as a travel companion but you need to understand a few quirks (I of course have none) about Little Hawk:
- She is prone to unintentionally insulting smokers. Example in an Ubud restaurant/bar sharing a table with smokers (and being surrounded by... smokers. and changing tables to avoid/minimize... smoke). A 'new' couple sits down to share our table. Sandra identified them as non smokers by the fact they were not (currently) smoking. She leans over and in a friendly manner states 'it's so nice to finally have people who don't smoke... sit with us. Then a little additional side note which we both blanked out on, but the gist of it being 'it's great to enjoy our drinks without .... (you fill it in). They turn a shade paler, appear somewhat less than comfortable, and yes admit in fact they DO smoke. Sandra then says 'oh, but that's FINE, REALLY just go ahead it won't bother us at ALLLL) Use your imagination here. We did not engage in any idle chit chat with this nice couple! Nor did they light up!
- Sandra has been known to scream out loud in the middle of the night SHERRRRYYYYYY! Or AHHHDGGDGG!!! Normally this occurs in the darkest hours, when we are both in our REM cycle. It can be just a little troubling..... :) but also entertaining!
- She's an awesome mozzie attraction, but tends to look a little ..well the only word is 'lumpy' at 67 red swollen bites
- Is a relentless sarong shopper....
- Does not share her (beautiful, new) TWO dresses purchased in Ubud
- Has Nicole Kidman hair when she let's it go in ocean breezes (personally my biggest resentment)
So we made it back from Shangrila Spa and Meditation Resort on the North Island in Bondalem. Yep that was our big 3 day get away and we relished every single moment. Loved the yoga classes. Crazy about the pool and gardens. Our 'Krishna Villa' was simply amazing. We made the most of our exotic, luxerious surroundings and was a fantastic finish to our trip together.
Dharma - our 'found' Balinese Taxi Driver. We could write a book on the way this guy drives! Dharma is a gentle, kind, communitive 50-ish man who turns into an absolute terror behind the wheel. We've white-knuckled our way on 2 long distance trips and 3 local jaunts. Why you ask, do we keep doing it? Because he keeps giving the best deal in town, has a nice air-con car, and makes me feel like a survivor. I hired him yet again today for a trip to the International Travel Clinic in Ubud (for immunizations, which turns out to NOT be cheaper here, but $250 more than Canada. Kind of a wasted trip, but there you go!). Once again he gave me a great price, now saying because Sandra and I are his friends. Today I watched and learned how to use the 2 turn lanes to advantage by: scooting over to pass every one in our lane, nudging 2 motor scooters, one bike, and a bus out of the way, then JUST as it's too late to do it - squeeze into a 3 foot space between a heavily loaded truck and a mini bus.... There! back in our lane!
Motor bike rental
Sherry was a cowardly failure, wobbling over cobble stones, nearly wiping out the local rooster, and even more humiliating diving to the wrong side (right) of the road whenever someone came towards me. Sandra is the local hero (another grudge I have) by taking to it like she was a local, plus she looked great! Actually I looked pretty good too, I have to say. The huge helmet covered up sweaty, stringy hair and I appeared happy (in the photo you may get to see. if I ever get them on here.)
Kokorans
Whatz it?? The most lovely heron ever, that's what! The reside for several months of the year, during baby season, 3 kms out of Ubud in Banjar. Dressed in soft, fluffy white feathers (body) and even softer gold feathers on head and part of the wing, with bright round beady little eyes, and a long-ish sharp-ish yellow beak, they cover local trees preening, stretching, and fluffing. And posing for photos. (will post one, honest...)
Sherry's Rented Villa
You just have to believe in serindepity (SANDRA!!! spell check please). Well you guys are smart and know what I mean! Four days after giving a deposit Sandra and I ran into one of the (two) room mates at a little blues bar/restaurant. Now this lady is sitting no more than 4 feet from us, with her back to us. We notice her. When the band takes a break, I go over to say 'hi'. Not only does she not say hello, nor does she turn or acknowledge us in any way other than a 'grunt' noise. Over the next hour, 'Joyella' walks by us 3 times with... no joy at all for the likes of me! The other roomy was leaving end of November and I was due to share paradise with a very hostile, or wierd, or ??? woman. Sandra and I looked open-mouthed at each other throughout the evening - and the next morning I called cancelling the whole arrangement. I did get my deposit back, which I am grateful for. I'm even more grateful to be exposed to this behaviour BEFORE moving in.
NOW
Tomorrow I am heading to Tejekula (North again) for a much less expensive (aka cheaper) yoga 'retreat'.
Thank you for the emails, I really appreciate your prayers, good wishes and thoughts for Sheryl. She is constantly on my mind, and it will be so good to get home soon.
Wednesday, 23 November 2011
Some Tid Bits...from Ubud
We are determined to explore enticing sideroads around Ubud.... mindful of dismaying stats: over the last 3 months 578 fatalities in traffic accidents, an average of 7 deaths/day. Legal driving age is 17 years but lots are much younger, and don't understand the rules of the road (I THINK there are rules...). We will wear helmets, stick to the far left side, and find nice (slightly) quieter roads. Our idea of 'Easy Rider'.
SACRED TREE: BANYON
Frequently (usually) dressed in gold, or black and white checkered cloth around the base, to acknowledge the infinite wisdom of the sacredness of the Banyon.
A symbol of humanity's potential for perfection. We are like trees: we are upright with our feet grounded on the earth, we rise towards the sky towards heaven and enlightenment. Like a tree we must be bully rooted with the energy of earth if we are to stand in the divine light. Like a tree, we are mediators between heaven and earth. It's branches remind us that we are one, yet many...
Sigh. Isn't this lovely?
IN PRAISE OF SARASWATI
Our infatuation of the Goddess of Knowledge continues and here is a little bitty update on our Diva:
Her 4 hands bear the following gifts:
* Wisdom sympolized by a (palm) book
* Devotion - a flower turned to the sun
* Creativity - a mala or rosary
* Meditation - mala or rosary
She stands on a lotus, representing her natural openess for true creativity and learning and her spiritual vehicle is a large white swan expressing devine purity and freedom.
Our evening with Wayan and family, and 4 other travellers residing at the Swallow House was wonderful! Two motorbikes transported Sandra and I to/from Gusti's and we zipped through the Bali countryside under the stars, listening to crickets, millions of frogs and geckos, and through palm trees, rice paddies, and little country homes. Wow another snippet from Eat, Pray, Love me thinks! Sandra saw the movie and she offers the little updates: 'OH this is right out of ....and Julia Roberts was here...!'
We had an amazing meal expertly prepared and served by Putri. I met Putri and Wayan 6 - 7 years ago and this Balinese woman only gets more beautiful, she truly shines with her very own special light. I wish I could get to know her better beyond the superficial greetings and waiwai weawea. Suzan gets to hang with her on a much more intimate level. We want her to join us for dinner, but her and Wayan both are uncomfortable with the idea and decline. A woman's place.....
The family compound is a busy place with Wayan, Putri and 3 children; his mom and dad; a widowed childless auntie, 2 brothers, wives and their children, a couple of dogs, cats, roosters, and....? We see the family temple with books (representing knowledge) and offerings to Saraswati. Wayan explains some of the family compound structure, Putrie dresses Sandra and I in traditional dress complete with sarong, and (forgot the Balanise name) lovely lace top. Wayan takes us to the community temple ceromony where we feel awkward and intrusive (this is not tourist oriented) but we are met with traditional kindness, welcoming smiles, and refreshments. It was a lovely experience and we feel quite grateful to Wayan and family/community.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A BALI BABE
Yesterday
* Up at 7 am, struggle out the door with sunscreen, hat, shorts, water bottle
* An hour or so rice paddy hike - views of...rice paddies, roosters, motor scooters on the little trail, little houses, prayer flags, sunshine, streams of water, palm trees, terreced hillsides.
* 8:30 breakfast by the pool: coffee, fresh tropical fruit dish, pineaple pancake/crepe
* Swim in pool, lounge like lizard, swim in pool
* Shopping Earrings (sherry) Other Important Stuff (sandra)
* lunch at health food cafe: roasted veggie and feta roll (sandra) and curried chicken saladd (sherry) with iced ginger tea
* Window Shopping, hot and sweaty, emergency stop for Coconut Sherbet (sherry)and Mango Sherbet (sandra)
* Research Pedicure. Decided against the R 45000 (about $5) and eagerly embraced the $11 CND offer at Body Works. There is a reason why. We are served fresh fruit kabobs, ginger tea... yawn.. foot and leg massage... heaven
* With the greatest of caution we gingerly (pardon the pun) make our way to the NEXT healthy cafe. Now we have: Bintang Beer. Roasted Veggie Salad with Feta, Beet Root and Walnut Salad, Grilled Chicken.
* Stuggle of the day: had to decide between amazing thrift store OR pedicure.
* 8 pm 'home' to Gusti's. They delivered a thermos of hot water for our night tea time
* much needed shower
* card game, sherry thumped by sandra
* 11 pm tucked into bed, to the chirps and croaks of Mr. Gecko and Ms. Frog
TOMORROW
9 am Raft Trip
Stay tuned!
December Schedule
* Sandra flies home December 3
* I am renting a shared UBUD VILLA as of December 1, and it is much less expensive than renting a homestay day by day! A very beautiful place complete with resident kitty cat, a maid, small swimming pool in a lovely area.
* Made the decision to fly home December 23 for a family and friend Christmas and New Year. Sheryl has been very ill for several weeks and it's hard being halfway across the world. A check in is in order! I will be the one with layers and layers of clothing, eyes and nose peeking out. Can't wait to catch up on everything happening at home and seeing everyone!
Friday, 18 November 2011
Last Thoughts....
Wawa Wewe
Translation: 'chit-chat', meaningless chatter'
Nice to know we've had 50% success with posting comments. Now we have no idea why your comments are all 'anonymous' and google accounts aren't working! Ah, technology, my favorite thing to deal with. Thanks for the comments by the way it's really nice to hear something back.
Hope this finds everyone warm and well!
Translation: 'chit-chat', meaningless chatter'
Nice to know we've had 50% success with posting comments. Now we have no idea why your comments are all 'anonymous' and google accounts aren't working! Ah, technology, my favorite thing to deal with. Thanks for the comments by the way it's really nice to hear something back.
Hope this finds everyone warm and well!
Wawa Wewe .....
Thursday November 17
Packing our bags, and (almost) ready to go. Amed area, on Bali's East Coast and more specifically the villlage of Lipah.
Hello to Home: As I sit here listening to gentle waves slurp (new twist on slurppie!) onto the beach at dusk.... this is (almost) the best part of the day, the sky is a muted blue/grey/pink blending nicely into the ocean. The horizen is hard to define with the two coming together for twilight, stars and the night.
Ok we've been here since Sunday night, again extending our stay day after day! We shuffle 10 steps from our veranda to the water with snorkle in hand. Us: Living in swimsuits, with salt water dread locks, and multi-layered sunscreen gradually tanning our sleek, muscular legs and torsos (giggles).
We hired a car and driver for Friday - 8 am to 6 pm for R 400,000 approximately $45 CND to take us meandering around the ridge of a little mountain by the East Coast via Sideman ('verdant' road with every variety of green landscape), think we'll do an art musuem, a panaromic walk...,15th century balinese royal palace (something we thing gardens, park or?) in Semaraprura eventually ending up back at Gusti's in Ubud for 4 - 5 days.
TEST QUIZ:
We have an vague itinerary from now to December 3 (when Sandra flies awaaaayyyy) including Paypal reservations made for November 29, 30 and December 1!!! CAN YOU GUESS WHAT WE ARE DOING ON THESE LAST 3 DAYS??? hint: super duper special just for Bali Queens....
Wawa Wewe Wed night event:
NEWSFLASH, WOMEN: Is your fantasy to be surrounded by exotic, buff, half-clad, greased-and-groomed Indonesian men? Clamouring for your attention?? Well... Guess what? Here's the reality:
We start the evening by ordering exotic Arak cocktails and quickly realize we (each other) are the best company of the evening. Too bad we didn't appreciate our alone time (10 minutes) before ...
Robin (our Snorkle Guide): 31 years old, depressed and lonely on palm wine joins us... tells a sad tale of his 'boring, hard, broke, and single' existence. Now, it's gonna get worse (sorry) when Elvis joins us. ADHD Elvis with his 6" greased Pompadour. He gazes on Fair Sandra with a brief light in his eye.... says: 'do ya wannadance?". Dance-girl Sandra accepts. Pompadour flops down into the chair and confidently smiles, says 'how 'bout the next one'? (puff. puff on that cigarrette!). As the (excellent) rock n roll Balanise band plays we end up on the dance floor. 8 - 9 men join us with constant cigarrettes in hand and puffing madly, so surrounded by 'smokin hot' men. Turns out Elvis has the attention span of a knat, and drifts away seconds after taking a dance partner onto the floor. We can't help our selves from madly laughing... and the show gets progressively worse. The guys start to understand enticing endearments are 'working' : e.g. where have you been? how come I haven't seen you....?' and wanna go to the beach with me to see phosphorescences (pretty shiny living things in the ocean, at night) now? (duh, yeh I wanna go to a dark, isolated beach with you NOW).... Pompadour nearly cries when I brightly say: gee, thanks for telling us... we'll make sure and look for them tonight when we go back to our room. Just Sandra and I. The room is right in front of the water :). Again, limited attention span saves us all as he drifts away. The music quits promptly at 11 and at 11:01 Sandra and I make a mad dash to take the escape route out the door and down to our little refuge. Bewildered smokin' youngin's are left in behind, and we are eternally grateful as we arrive alone.
Stay tuned, photos will be posted next time 'round.
Abit of a sad tale for me: yesterday Friday Nov 18, on our tour through Sedaman (drop dead, absolutely incredibly beautiful) MY CAMERA quit working. Sob. We are relying on Sandra's camera now, thank goodness we have that.
.
Packing our bags, and (almost) ready to go. Amed area, on Bali's East Coast and more specifically the villlage of Lipah.
Hello to Home: As I sit here listening to gentle waves slurp (new twist on slurppie!) onto the beach at dusk.... this is (almost) the best part of the day, the sky is a muted blue/grey/pink blending nicely into the ocean. The horizen is hard to define with the two coming together for twilight, stars and the night.
Ok we've been here since Sunday night, again extending our stay day after day! We shuffle 10 steps from our veranda to the water with snorkle in hand. Us: Living in swimsuits, with salt water dread locks, and multi-layered sunscreen gradually tanning our sleek, muscular legs and torsos (giggles).
We hired a car and driver for Friday - 8 am to 6 pm for R 400,000 approximately $45 CND to take us meandering around the ridge of a little mountain by the East Coast via Sideman ('verdant' road with every variety of green landscape), think we'll do an art musuem, a panaromic walk...,15th century balinese royal palace (something we thing gardens, park or?) in Semaraprura eventually ending up back at Gusti's in Ubud for 4 - 5 days.
TEST QUIZ:
We have an vague itinerary from now to December 3 (when Sandra flies awaaaayyyy) including Paypal reservations made for November 29, 30 and December 1!!! CAN YOU GUESS WHAT WE ARE DOING ON THESE LAST 3 DAYS??? hint: super duper special just for Bali Queens....
Wawa Wewe Wed night event:
NEWSFLASH, WOMEN: Is your fantasy to be surrounded by exotic, buff, half-clad, greased-and-groomed Indonesian men? Clamouring for your attention?? Well... Guess what? Here's the reality:
We start the evening by ordering exotic Arak cocktails and quickly realize we (each other) are the best company of the evening. Too bad we didn't appreciate our alone time (10 minutes) before ...
Robin (our Snorkle Guide): 31 years old, depressed and lonely on palm wine joins us... tells a sad tale of his 'boring, hard, broke, and single' existence. Now, it's gonna get worse (sorry) when Elvis joins us. ADHD Elvis with his 6" greased Pompadour. He gazes on Fair Sandra with a brief light in his eye.... says: 'do ya wannadance?". Dance-girl Sandra accepts. Pompadour flops down into the chair and confidently smiles, says 'how 'bout the next one'? (puff. puff on that cigarrette!). As the (excellent) rock n roll Balanise band plays we end up on the dance floor. 8 - 9 men join us with constant cigarrettes in hand and puffing madly, so surrounded by 'smokin hot' men. Turns out Elvis has the attention span of a knat, and drifts away seconds after taking a dance partner onto the floor. We can't help our selves from madly laughing... and the show gets progressively worse. The guys start to understand enticing endearments are 'working' : e.g. where have you been? how come I haven't seen you....?' and wanna go to the beach with me to see phosphorescences (pretty shiny living things in the ocean, at night) now? (duh, yeh I wanna go to a dark, isolated beach with you NOW).... Pompadour nearly cries when I brightly say: gee, thanks for telling us... we'll make sure and look for them tonight when we go back to our room. Just Sandra and I. The room is right in front of the water :). Again, limited attention span saves us all as he drifts away. The music quits promptly at 11 and at 11:01 Sandra and I make a mad dash to take the escape route out the door and down to our little refuge. Bewildered smokin' youngin's are left in behind, and we are eternally grateful as we arrive alone.
Stay tuned, photos will be posted next time 'round.
Abit of a sad tale for me: yesterday Friday Nov 18, on our tour through Sedaman (drop dead, absolutely incredibly beautiful) MY CAMERA quit working. Sob. We are relying on Sandra's camera now, thank goodness we have that.
.
Wednesday, 16 November 2011
Tuesday, 15 November 2011
Update: On Bali Time!
Sanur: 3 days
Ubud: 3 days
North Coast Pematuran: 2 nights
East Coast: now our second full day
Temples: 5
Water Palace: 1
Bintang Beer: 1 large shared/day
Arak: prn (as needed)
Snorkeling: prn
Stress Levels: 0 to -10
Bali Belly: Sherry 2 episodes moderate and mild-moderate with average duration .5 day; Sandra: zero-light 20 minutes.
General Health and Medical Concerns: Sandra - 1 heat rash episode resolving nicely; sunburned buns: one for each of us, small but intense discomfort. Reminder: shower with sunscreen before snorkelling.
Every location move is a struggle. We LOVE every place we've stayed and feel very sad when we move on!
SANUR: Kamasuri 'Hotel' - air con, king bed, half a block to the beach and seaside 3 kms walkway, across from temple... breakfast included. Warangs have awesome food and we had the very best seafood Nasi Goreng ever at a little ocean front warang.
UBUD: Gusti's Garden and our little unit overlooking a terraced garden, perfect blue pool snuggled at the bottom, ... 'interesting' outdoor shower, resident gecko of the larger, louder variety (loud GECK-gooooo - imagine a low throaty purr at the end and you'll have it just right). Fan (no air-con -- fine in Ubud), two beds, private patio, breakfast and friendly smiles, morning offerings of incense and prayers - all for $12.50 each/night.
Two for One Happy Hour cocktails the best ever discovered in Ubud is ARAK MOJITO!!!!
Much wetter , with heavy rain especially at night and some freaky loud thunder and lightning. I check in with Wayan: rain is much heavier this year than my last 2 visits in Novemer? the answer is 'yes' - global warming and not a good outcome for the rice crops. Also Ubud is crazy busy? Yep, with the release of Eat, Pray, Love 2 years ago tourism has increased greatly... ugh. but good for them. Also The Bucket List with Jack Nicolson (?) highlights Bali - note to self(s) get both movies on return to Canada.
PEMUTERAN: Taman Sari Bali Resort - WOW! Describes this place! Happy, Happy Babes here! Beautiful gardens and lawn, 2 beds with mozzie nets, air con; outdoor balinese bathrooms, right on the beach with fantastic snorkelling, perfect pool, wonderful service.... we are prima donnas here and feel great remorse leaving our natural habitant.
Right off the beach: a once destroyed reef (because of dynamite and cyanide fishing followed by global warming) rebounding at 5X the normal rate due to large metal cages being placed on the reef, then hooking up to low voltage electricity from generators on the beach! The result is successful stimulation of limestone formation on the cages, which THEN forms new coral. Happy Story. A recovered reef and an improvished area now attracts tourists that employs the locals.
Day trip to Palau Menjangan (Deer Island)
Literally a private tour and wonderful local guide! Nono is a young Balanise man and ex lawyer (couldn't handle the stress and negativity around his chosen profession) who is passionate about environmental issues and Deer Island. Soft Coral, Hard Coral, lots of fish including Parrot Fish, Clown Fish, and "Nemo" - funny orange and white fish who love to hide in creamy, soft sponges - the Pitt Bulls of the fish world. With a tenative hand reaching towards the sponge, they dart out in attack posture then quickly retreat. Our second, more secluded snorkel was simply amazing with stunning coral gardens, including one patch of brillant green about 40' in diameter. Wow.
We hired Wayan and a driver for 3 days at approximately $40/day plus fuel (.45/litre) from Ubud north to Pemuteran then back to the East Coast. A luxury drive with air conditioning. We realize after 2 lunch experiences: we need to take control over the situation! Wayan, of course, does not go out for lunch so he stops at the tour bus stops = poor food, high prices, and a time waster. No problem! We get a 'to go' lunch from the hotel before we hit the road next time around.
Travel Companion: Sandra is a pain in the ___! Just between you and I, she is so happy, agreeable, and in love with Bali, Beer, and Snorkelling it's very difficult to be around her. But, I must persevere.
Bali Spirituality: In a nutshell, our perfect little tropical Island IS a true giant generated by incredible people and their proud, stong spirit and culture. Bali is the ONLY remaining Hindu Island in the largest Muslum country (Indonesia). There is no where else in the whole world like Bali.
Hindu with Buddist influence offers a very unique and facinating learning experience...The Gods are as follows:
- Wisnu
Color is Black
Is the Protector God and God of Water
Represents the North
Wife: is the Goddess of Rice (nourishment)
- Brahma,
Color is Red
Creator God and God of Fire
Wife: is Saraswati, Goddess of Knowledge ( my personal fav)
-Sewa
All Colors
Represents Earth and is in the middle
Is the Destroyer of Bad Spirits
Wife is Durga, Goddess of Black Magic
- Iswira
Color is White
Priests worships this god, represents all the elements
Represents East
- Mahadewa
color is yellow
Protector God of the Spirit, Leadership and is the 'King of Gods'
Color is White
Represents West
Wife - not clear 'bout this -stay tuned if you are interested/facinated/curious!
Very Interesting: Brahma (South), Wisnu (North) and Sewa (middle) form the Trinity
So: Brahma = ANG; Wisnu = UNG and Sewa = MING, the sounds taken all togethere = OM
Worship is a constant in Bali. Every God is honored, every day with prayers, offerings of flowers, food, incense and music. 'Ceromonies' are special spritual celebrations and are too numerous and frequent to count. We just count ourselves very lucky to to part of every day life and live like the Balanise 'in the moment, in the day, and with appreciation'.
This Saturday Wayan has invited us to attend aCeremony in his village, in honor of Saraswati - yep my very own Goddess of Knowledge. Putri is going to help us with traditional dress and you bet you'll be seeing photos!!!!
For some reason I don't think you are able to post comments. I have no idea why but will try my best to trouble shoot (SANDRAaaaa HELPPPP)
(Good Bye to you - leaving 'the blog'!)
To be Continued......
Sunday, 6 November 2011
Warm Bali Welcome For Babes!!!
FRIDAY (THURSDAY TO YOU N.A.'s)
Bali Babes arrived in Denpaser slightly tattered and confused following 2 days encased in large fast moving tin tube. Nevertheless luggage, mind and body are intact.
Reported experiences:
13.5 hours Vancouver to Taipei China Airlines hospitality rating.5 Star ***** we questioned 'is this actually FIRST CLASS? But alas, the seats WERE for commoners. Our every request, percieved need, or twitch of an eyelash was treated as #1 Priority. Sigh. Impressive.
Taipei Airport
Sign: For Aviation Safety Concern it is Prohibited to Breed Pigeons, or Release Other Flying Objects Around The Airport. (we immediately separated Jack and Jill)
Not to be missed: Butterfly Garden and Prayer Rooms
An oasis of peace and calm - puffy, comfy lounge chairs present a perfect opportunity for nap time. Oh, and lush follage, soft lighting, 3 massage chairs (free with a token). The 3 Prayer Rooms: Islamic, Buddist, and Christian decorated in minature to welcome each specific need in a separate 12' X 12' room. The most pleasant experiece EVER for a 3.5 hour layover. A very cosy, positive impression of Taiwen.
Ah, Sherry is Back in Bali's Arms. And Sandra reportedly has a case of Love at First Sight!
Once again transported by the spirit of Bali. Sook-Su-Ma (Thank YOU) FYI - not correct
spelling, but you now can say Thanks to someone today in Balanise. You must say this with a gentle voice and lovely smile.
Our temporary first home is in a Sanur Air Con room. This is greatly appreciated, and goes a long way to our recovery from the 15 hour time change, 24 hours travelling, and resulting jet lag. So does last nights dinner: Cold Beer, Nasi Goreng, Gada Gada, Red Snapper and the bill: $10 each
Love a T-shirt we saw and named: CBT (Cognitive Behavoural) T:
"Don't Believe Everything You Think" What a wonderful reminder wonder if I can tatoo it on my forehead?
Both of us woke up this morning feelin' Good, Like We Knew We Would' to twittering, cooing, and chirping originating from the local feathered population. An awesome 7 am walk along the beach taking in all the sights in the 'cooler' part of the day that has us totally soaked with dew-like sweat by the time within minutes. Some sights along the way:
Fishermen with hook and line, standing in waist high water half way to the reef.
A circle of 15 cross-legged Balanese men meditating on the beach
Locals preparing to open up small shops, sweeping away fallen leaves and yesterday's wilting flowers with palm straw broom. 'Sue' drops her chores to offer Sandra 'best morning price' on a cute little cotton dress....
Portable barbeques already sizzling with mouth watering chicken and beef satay
Blue, green, red, orange, yellow (ok, colorful) small wooden catamarens
Ferns, vines, flowers (don't you just love the 4" white and yellow 4-petal ones that smell so lovely?)
Back to our room by 8:15 just in time for thick, black, hot coffee, toast, papaya, and pineapple delivered to our little tiled veranda. But our breakie is interrupted with the start of a 4 day opening celebration for a new temple just accross from our little hotel. Now we are subjected to trance-like music surrounding our senses thereby paralizing all efforts to rush about... doing something. Gosh What WERE we thinking of doing again??? Heartrate drops, muscles slacken, and mind goes numb(er).
Wish you were here? We do too!!!
So nice to see Sylvia, Sophia and Isabel thanks for coming on board - here's me smiling right back! Love Ya!
Bali Babes arrived in Denpaser slightly tattered and confused following 2 days encased in large fast moving tin tube. Nevertheless luggage, mind and body are intact.
Reported experiences:
13.5 hours Vancouver to Taipei China Airlines hospitality rating.5 Star ***** we questioned 'is this actually FIRST CLASS? But alas, the seats WERE for commoners. Our every request, percieved need, or twitch of an eyelash was treated as #1 Priority. Sigh. Impressive.
Taipei Airport
Sign: For Aviation Safety Concern it is Prohibited to Breed Pigeons, or Release Other Flying Objects Around The Airport. (we immediately separated Jack and Jill)
Not to be missed: Butterfly Garden and Prayer Rooms
An oasis of peace and calm - puffy, comfy lounge chairs present a perfect opportunity for nap time. Oh, and lush follage, soft lighting, 3 massage chairs (free with a token). The 3 Prayer Rooms: Islamic, Buddist, and Christian decorated in minature to welcome each specific need in a separate 12' X 12' room. The most pleasant experiece EVER for a 3.5 hour layover. A very cosy, positive impression of Taiwen.
Ah, Sherry is Back in Bali's Arms. And Sandra reportedly has a case of Love at First Sight!
Once again transported by the spirit of Bali. Sook-Su-Ma (Thank YOU) FYI - not correct
spelling, but you now can say Thanks to someone today in Balanise. You must say this with a gentle voice and lovely smile.
Our temporary first home is in a Sanur Air Con room. This is greatly appreciated, and goes a long way to our recovery from the 15 hour time change, 24 hours travelling, and resulting jet lag. So does last nights dinner: Cold Beer, Nasi Goreng, Gada Gada, Red Snapper and the bill: $10 each
Love a T-shirt we saw and named: CBT (Cognitive Behavoural) T:
"Don't Believe Everything You Think" What a wonderful reminder wonder if I can tatoo it on my forehead?
Both of us woke up this morning feelin' Good, Like We Knew We Would' to twittering, cooing, and chirping originating from the local feathered population. An awesome 7 am walk along the beach taking in all the sights in the 'cooler' part of the day that has us totally soaked with dew-like sweat by the time within minutes. Some sights along the way:
Fishermen with hook and line, standing in waist high water half way to the reef.
A circle of 15 cross-legged Balanese men meditating on the beach
Locals preparing to open up small shops, sweeping away fallen leaves and yesterday's wilting flowers with palm straw broom. 'Sue' drops her chores to offer Sandra 'best morning price' on a cute little cotton dress....
Portable barbeques already sizzling with mouth watering chicken and beef satay
Blue, green, red, orange, yellow (ok, colorful) small wooden catamarens
Ferns, vines, flowers (don't you just love the 4" white and yellow 4-petal ones that smell so lovely?)
Back to our room by 8:15 just in time for thick, black, hot coffee, toast, papaya, and pineapple delivered to our little tiled veranda. But our breakie is interrupted with the start of a 4 day opening celebration for a new temple just accross from our little hotel. Now we are subjected to trance-like music surrounding our senses thereby paralizing all efforts to rush about... doing something. Gosh What WERE we thinking of doing again??? Heartrate drops, muscles slacken, and mind goes numb(er).
Wish you were here? We do too!!!
So nice to see Sylvia, Sophia and Isabel thanks for coming on board - here's me smiling right back! Love Ya!
Saturday, 29 October 2011
HEADLINE NEWS: Bali Babes Appearing in Indonesia!
NOVEMBER 3, 2011 The Bali Babes, AKA known as Sherry and Sandra or Big Eagle (guess who?) and Little Hawk (who is?) are off and wandering through a time warp experience that has us in Indonesia 20 hours after we leave home, but on the same day we departed. Say What??
Insight #1: Tuesday we had an a-ha moment and realized our flight really did leave on Thursday, November 3 at 1:30 am. For some odd reason, we both had the slightly misguided idea we had to be at YVR November 3 evening for our flight... leaving November 4 at 1:30 am. Ooops! THAT was a good catch, Sandra!
Exotic, tropical, fantastic Bali . Sigh. Rabies (bats, rats, dogs, pigs) never mind. We have gravol and antibacterial lotion. Oh and of course, travel insurance 'just in case'. Cheap, frosty beer; sweet, and refreshing fruit juices, and Nasi Goreng. And the Bali groove. Gambian music, incense burning early in the morning, flower and food offerings to religious deities.
Inight #2: Obtaining visas is such an invigorating, exciting last-possible-moment experience. Bali 60 day visa processed overnight. India Visa: A call to the consulate advised it's 'too late' now and they cannot process the application under 5 - 7 days. A desparate wanderin woman drives downtown Vancouver to the processing office: 'no problem' you will have it by Saturday! Ok what is the lesson here? Ah such is life.
Last minute everything is happening as we speak. Shopping, plant care, cat care, car washed (yeh, right), house clean(?), one last hello/goodbye to you all, phone, internet, TV cancelled, pack, repack, weight all the gotta have stuff. Unpack, repack, repeat. Sleep? whatzat?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)