Seminyak: Bali's Cool Corner

Why Seminyak?

With a mountainous, lush interior and a coastline crowded with swells for rookies as well as seasoned surfers, the island of Bali serves up almost year-round excuses to visit. Yet, despite the onslaught of sightseers bringing cultural influences from diverse corners of the world, locals continue to attend to their stunning temples and graceful daily rituals.
On the popular southern side of the island, with the Indian Ocean lapping at its shore, a coastal spot is garnering more attention for its gentrification. Seminyak has transformed in the past decade from a stretch of sleepy rice paddies into a hip spot boasting some of the island's best restaurants, hotels and boutiques. It's the upmarket antidote to nearby Kuta, notorious for its girly bars and relentless touts.
The best time to visit is from May to September, when the humidity drops and temperatures range from the mid-20s to mid-30s° Celsius. Party season peaks in August. If you don't mind sporadic waves of torrential rain, there are still picture-perfect days earlier in the year.

Find your feet
One of thousands of islands in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali is surrounded by coral reefs, which are perfect for snorkelling trips. Its tropical landscape has kilometres of twisting roads that lead inland to extinct volcanic craters and hot mineral springs. Seminyak stretches only a few kilometres along the southern coastline, with small neighbouring areas such as Petitenget within its boundaries.
The streets of Seminyak are narrow and winding, hence the popularity of motorbikes. To the north, it's one of the last of the built-up tourist zones on that side of the island. To the south is manicured Nusa Dua and busy Kuta.

Meet the locals
The fresh produce market at the northern end of Jalan Raya Seminyak, known as Seminyak Market, is crowded, but the produce is fresh and cheap. Stalls also sell popular cooked dishes found at roadside carts. Chicken sate sticks, fried rice or noodles with spicy pastes and water spinach tossed with chilli are usually economically served in small plastic bags. Food plays a vital role in the many religious observances on the Balinese Hindu calendar and Petitenget Temple is an important hub for locals. By the beach, just off Jalan Petitenget, families make daily offerings of fruit, rice and flowers to the well-preserved temple.
Book a table
Just a few minutes' walk from Seminyak Beach is the slick new restaurant and bar, Petitenget (www.petitenget.net; 00 62 361 4733 054). Modelled on a European bistro, it still has Asian touches, not only in the design of the space but in the dishes, too. For mains, there is the pan roasted red snapper fillet with prawn and chicken laksa broth (118,000 rupiah/Dh44). Finish off with a Bali lime and coconut meringue pie (55,000 rupiah/Dh21).
The serene Sarong (www.sarongbali.com; 00 62 361 4737 809) serves more traditional flavours in its two dining pavilions. The ubiquitous chewy, rolled-up betel leaf is given a fresh twist with a filling of raw tuna, lemongrass, shallots and lemon basil (25,000 rupiah/Dh9). Or try the deep fried turmeric crispy fish (159,000 rupiah/Dh60). The restaurant is often booked, so plan ahead.
For a more casual meal, take a seat among the antiques, quirky homewares and books (all for sale) at Biku (bikubali.com; 00 62 361 8570 888). There's great coffee, freshly baked cakes of the day (25,000 rupiah/Dh9), beef burgers (55,000 rupiah/Dh21) and classic Indonesian nasi goreng - fried rice served with chicken sate, prawn crackers and fried egg (40,000 rupiah/Dh15).

Shopper's paradise
With narrow roads packed with motorbikes and potholes marring the footpaths, hire a driver to explore the boutiques around W Hotel on Jalan Petitenget. Namu (namustore.com; 00 62 361 279 7524) has stunning frocks and other chic necessities. For silver trinkets and local art, head to the ever-changing assortment of stores on nearby Jalan Laksmana.

What to avoid
Denpasar International Airport is drab and tedious. Long lines often form for the cash-only visa-on-arrival application and for customs. Hire a service such as the Bali Concierge (www.thebaliconcierge.com; 00 62 361 766 880) to speed up the process. They'll meet you as you step off the plane and handle all the paperwork and luggage issues at prices starting at US$35 (Dh129).
Don't miss
Watching the sunsets over the ocean. In prime position by the beach is the architecturally loopy Potato Head Beach Club (www.ptthead.com; 00 62 361 473 7979), which has daybeds by the infinity pool as well as three restaurants.

Go there
Etihad Airways flies from Abu Dhabi to Bali international airport via Kuala Lumpur in about 11 hours from Dh3,125 return, including taxes (www.etihad.com).

Source: thenational.ae

Different Strokes for Different Folks: Insight on Balinese Massage

With the seasons changing, it is time to pamper oneself with a relaxing body massage to relieve oneself of those stiff shoulders and joints. The city’s top spa outlets are all geared to cater to spa goers, as they offer a range of massage packages designed for different needs.
Lucy, a therapist from O2, BodyLyrics, Savera Hotel, says that the Balinese massage is the craze of the season. “This one-hour massage therapy, using Balinese and other essential oils, focuses on stimulating blood circulation.  It is considered the most ancient massage therapy of all and uses a combination of techniques, such as acupressure, skin rolling and flicking along with firm and gentle strokes,” says Lucy.
There is also Deep Tissue that mostly targets the muscles. “It helps to relieve the tension caused in your body and facial tissues due to day-to-day activities,” says Sonia from Toni and Guy. Another interesting alternative is the Bamboo massage, where chemically treated hollow bamboo canes are used instead of the therapist’s hands. It works wonders as a pain reliever.
The newest introduction, Chakra Therapy, could be useful too for those who feel the need for it. It involves several steps, the first being reading the client’s body aura. A specially devised software is used to scan the body, which uses different colours to highlight clients’ varying body type. This provides the basis for a preliminary session of about half an hour, followed by a proper hour-long body massage. “Not every body type is the same, nor are the problems each is facing. Therefore, the remedy can’t be same for all. Based on this concept, we have developed the Chakra Spa that focuses on giving customised therapy for each client. This method is extremely helpful in dealing with specific problems that are overlooked in a general session,” points out Sonia.
Actress Piaa Bajpai loves her time at the spa and adds, “After a long day at work, massage is one thing that really rejuvenates me. And I exercise a lot. In order to relax my muscles, I go for foot message and whole body message. I love head massages since it really helps me  calm down. I feel really good and even mental health improves when one goes for massages”
In a place like Chennai, that has been known for its rather more  conservative outlook, the concept of body massage is generating a great deal of interest.
In fact, it is quite popular among young celebs in the city. “We have beautiful A listers, like Namitha, who is a regular at our spa. Our staff and clients get quite thrilled by the celebrities who visit here,” adds Sonia.



Source:deccanchronicle.com

CHESTERFIELD: Balinese Art on Display

Paintings by Balinese artists Komang Adi Siswono, Kodok Adi, Ketut Suardana and Komang Suweca, amongst many others are being showcased in Chesterfield.

Bali has a rich cultural diversity, which is reflected in this latest exhibition, where traditional ‘Wayang’ styles and Batiks sit pretty with modern abstracts and ‘Young Artist’ styles - a school of painting that sprung up from a small village outside Ubud in the 60’s - and has flourished ever since.
Local Musician/Promoter Aaron Brown was so struck by the artists in Bali whilst on holiday there in 2006, that he immersed himself in the language and culture of Indonesia, travelling back many times, helping struggling artists make a living.
After a few exhibitions of their works in bars and cafés in and around Leeds, the Indonesian Community in the area asked him to provide an exhibition at Leeds University for the celebration of their National (Independence) Day - Hari Kemerdekaan in 2007. This success forged deep links with the community and has led to 14 exhibitions in the UK so far, with this one in Fair (Not Fur) Traders being the first in Chesterfield - which retained it’s ‘Fairtrade Borough Status’ in 2011.
The exhibition runs at Fair (Not Fur) Traders, Newbold Road, Chesterfield, until the middle of June.



Source: matlockmercury.co.uk

The Dharma Fair: Night 2014

One World One Stage Night Market

A buzzing night market full of local restaurants, a great bar, a chill out area, unique vendors, exhibitions, a small kids area and access to the world music concerts.
Location: ARMA, Jln Pengosekan, Ubud (5 minutes south of Central Ubud)
How to get there: There are shuttle busses leaving from in front of KAFE, on Jln Hanoman regularly. Otherwise a private driver can get you there. See MAP to ARMA
Dates: March 22, 23, 24
Hours: 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Doors open at 6:00 pm for dinner, live gamelan cocktail hour. Main stage show starts approximately 7:00pm.
Night Market Entrance Fees:
Full VIP Pass Holders, Full Festival Pass holders, Weekend Pass Holders, VIP Night Pass Holders & Full Concert Pass Holders have free entrance to the Night Market AND the daytime Dharma Fair. Single Night Tickets allow entrance into the Night Market but not the day.

• Adults Rp.250,000 regular, Rp.450,000*
• Kids Rp.50,000**

**All children under 6 must be accompanied by a care-giver. Caregivers are allowed into the night concerts free of charge. Passes and entrance stamps available at the gate.
* all proceeds support Festival Outreach Programs

Kids Programs

At the daytime Dharma Fair there is a plethora of programs for kids, ranging from yoga classes with Rainbow Kids Yoga, creative classes with Camp Magic, Balinese arts & culture classes (supported by BASAbali), and an organic playground situated amongst the trees (supported by the Green School and Tamanak Community Playground Project).
Ticket Prices:

• Adults: Rp.150,000
• Kids: 20,000
• Balinese KTP holders: by donation.  

Source: balispiritfestival.com

The Dharma Fair: Day 2014

The Daytime Dharma Fair at Purnati

A buzzing marketplace full of healthy foods, unique Indonesian made products, healers, readers and a plethora of kids programs supported by Camp Magic, The Green School, Tamanak, BIS and BASAbali
Location: Purnati Center for the Arts, Batuan (15 minutes south of Ubud on the way to Denpasar)
How to get there: There are shuttle busses leaving from in front of KAFE, on Jln Hanoman regularly. Otherwise a private driver can get you there. See MAP to PURNATI
Dates: March 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm daily
Lunchtime Balinese Music Performances: 12:15pm daily
Dharma Fair (Daytime) Entrance Fees:

Full VIP Pass Holders, Full Festival Pass holders, Weekend Pass Holders, VIP Night Pass Holders & Full Concert Pass Holders (not single night pass holders) have free entrance to the daytime Dharma Fair.

• Adults Rp.50,000 (This stamp allows you access into lunchtime performances and seminars but not workshops)*
• Adults with Balinese KTP, by donation*
• Kids Fun Pass Rp.100,000**

**All children under 12 must be accompanied by a care-giver. If caregiver is not attending workshops or shopping, the caregivers will be given a limited access to the main festival grounds to take the kids on walks or to swim in the afternoon. Passes and entrance stamps available at the gate.
* all proceeds support Festival Outreach Programs
The Dharma Fair Music Corner & Workshop Tent
Featuring daily lunch-time concerts by unique Indonesian groups, both traditional and modern, as well as daily free seminars in health, healing and other issues of importance.
Marketplace / Bazaar
The Marketplace features Indonesian businesses including local not-for-profit booths, local handicraft, natural health and beauty products, artisan clothing and jewelry, holistic literature and paraphernalia, socially and ecologically sustainable products and crafts, festival merchandise (books, CDs, musical instruments, dance and yoga wear and equipment), yoga props and clothing, books and DVDs, performer merchandise and great raw/health food and beverages.
You can also find information on household waste management systems, renewable energy, eco-friendly lifestyles, community initiatives in environment and arts and culture preservation.
Healers & Readers Sanctuary
The Dharma Fair features some of the region's most esteemed practitioners and vendors in alternative health and medicine, personal growth, and spiritual well-being. They will offer sessions in Massage, Natural Facials, Cranio-Sacral, Chiropractic, Tarot, Reiki, Astrology, Iridology, and more! There will be keynote speakers will be leading interactive, participatory explorations through a variety of modalities.








Source: balispiritfestival.com

Bali exhibit at Asian Art Museum San Francisco has ancient charms

San Francisco - Long before the Rogers & Hammerstein musical the “King and I” introduced American audiences to exotic Siam, (now called Thailand); there was Bali. A San Francisco museum is currently showcasing Bali.

An island setting, situated between Java to the west and Lombok to the east, Bali was a distinct kingdom when medieval Europe was being invaded and reshaped by Viking conquests. Eventually, Bali and the surrounding archipelago would become part of the ancient trade routes allowing for a flow of commerce of goods to connect from China to India. In addition to the travel back and forth of things such as spices, silk and artisan items, religious ideas were also exchanged. Trade with India brought the influence of Hinduism resulting in the development of nine sects of religious expression and belief among the Balinese. It is their sense of religion and custom that is of importance and significance to the Balinese people, even to this day. On June 7, this reporter had the privilege to join in on a docent tour for an exhibit now on display at the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco entitled, “Bali – Art, Ritual, & Performance.” It has been well received as written up this past May in the New York Times. The sound of gamelan instruments played in the background as soon as the door to the exhibit hall opened. Brooks Szolyga invited visitors to join her for a docent tour. Bali is now a major tourist destination to Westerners. But the exhibit gives witness to the fact that Bali and the surrounding islands like Java and Lombok were a civilization to be reckoned with as they struggled amongst themselves for power between kingdoms, dynasties and ruling classes from 1019 to 1597. The earliest evidence of human population on Bali can be traced to prehistoric times some artifacts dating as far back as three thousand years ago. By the 9th Century rice was grown and the Balinese had developed a complex irrigation system. The art, music, ritual and dance reflect the respect for the cycles of life and are a compilation of layers of centuries of history, struggle and influence these islands had upon one another. In the 1500’s Dutch seafarers discovered Indonesia. They were charmed by the paradise they had found. Over time their enchantment turned to greed as they sought to conquer Bali and the surrounding area. The struggles for power within the Balinese and Javanese royal circles gave the Dutch the advantage and after many attempts at resistance, Bali and Java fell to Holland’s rule. Szolyga noted several times during her docent tour that the Dutch had collected many of the artifacts in the exhibit during skirmishes and conflicts. As in other instances of European domination, the native peoples demonstrated dramatic defiance by tossing the would-be conquerors their most precious possessions. Ivory, Jade, precious stones were hurled at the Dutch as they advanced into palaces and temples. One artifact on display that fascinated Szolyga most was the compelling figure of “Rangda,” the widow-sorceress. (The name “Rangda” in Balinese translates as ‘widow’). Bulging eyes, matted hair, fangs, long fingernails and a tongue of fire characterize the formidable entity of Rangda in ceremonial dances and rituals. Natasha Reichle, the Asian Art Museum's associate curator of Southeast Asian art explained to this reporter later that the figure is based upon a historical widowed queen from the 11th Century named Mahendradatta. She was the mother of King Airlangga. According to legend she was banished from the palace for practicing magic. A complex figure in the legends and religious mythology of the culture, “Rangda is an antagonist,” noted Reichle. She is often associated with the graveyard, conjuring and magic. Yet archaeologists note that this Durga-like deity (as from Hindu tradition) has a myriad of myths and interpretations to her role. At over 23 inches high and 16 inches in width, the intricate carving in wood of Rangda is exquisite. It stands alone in a display case. Many of the visitors to the exhibit that day were overwhelmed by the richness not certain where to start as all of the carved figures and artifacts in the exhibit are of a highly detailed craftsmanship. The six or so that gathered around the artifact of Rangda as Szolyga spoke about Rangda’s role were intrigued, The sheer mixture of the fine craftsmanship and dramatic effect that leaned towards the grotesque puzzled and fascinated them. Barbara and Jean Fremineur visiting San Francisco from Scottsdale, Arizona were impressed by the exhibit and were pleased that Szolyga and others who make up the docent team were there to provide tours. Individual audio tours with a head-set are available. But many visitors like Jean & Barbara Fremineur prefer an actual docent because they can ask questions all of which are graciously answered by each docent. Szolyga explained that every aspect of Balinese life is cause for a dance, a ritual, a celebration or a commemoration of some kind relating to the ancestors, forces within nature and the deities. Death of a loved one is most important because the ceremonies upheld and carried out by the people allow the soul of the departed to ascend to heaven. The spiritual and the temporal intertwine weaving an elaborate system of customs and beliefs that make Bali one of the most unique places to visit. A few people in the group said they had been to Bali and enjoyed it very much and like some of the first Dutch sailors in the 1500’s, they did not want to leave. Travel author Ryan Ver Berkmoes who writes for Lonely Planet.com attested to the beauty and complexity of Bali and that region of Southeast Asia. He talked to this reporter by phone after the docent tour. “Traditional life of Bali is unique,” he said. I know of people (Westerners) who have lived there for decades, he said, who have studied the culture and lived among the people.” “But they still find the religious system of believe and customs complex,” said Ver Berkmoes. The people have a gentle nature with a lot of integrity. But Ver Berkmoes noted Bali has changed a lot, even in the past 15 years he has been traveling to the island since 1993. “I go there two to three times a year and with the recent economic growth a tourist can find Starbucks and McDonalds,” he said. Parts of Bali today are very modern and savvy. “Yet I tune all that out because there is beauty and a joy there,” he said. Like any modern traveler the distance and traffic is hectic. But what is most important “when I have finally arrived and I am there I am relaxed,” he said. He marveled at how the Balinese people are able to maintain their rich culture and beliefs while adapting to a changing world influenced by advancing electronic technology. As this reporter thanked Szolyga for her tour, Jero Made Renten and Garrett Kam pointed out to Szolyga that the two umbrellas that greeted visitors at the exhibit’s entrance were not correct. As participants and consultants to the exhibit Renten and Kam wanted to ensure “everything must be in right order.” Each color banner, arrangement of flowers and artifact has a meaning. Offerings of flowers, etc. must be placed in the right spot that way the spirits know they are welcome and that customs continue in proper order as they have for centuries. Bali: Art, Ritual, Performance began this past
 February 25 and will continue until September 11, 2011 This exhibit is the First Large-Scale U.S. Exhibition of Balinese Art of its kind. Visit the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco

 

 

 

 

Source: digitaljournal.com

Kids Day with ROLE Foundation

KIDS DAY with ROLE Foundation

On Saturday 29th of June

at Island Sustainability Education Center

Jalan Celagi Nunggul, 101 ; Sawangan; Nusa Dua

This is the perfect activity parents are looking for their children during the week end!
It is the opportunity for  kids to discover the challenges and issues of the environmental cause, the waste problem in Bali and how to insert sustainability in your daily life.

We are creating a great program for them : interactive visit of the learning park, snail shell painting, face painting, help in the garden, interactive games, videos, tasting and smelling contest, herbs hunting in the garden, bazaar, art and crafts, meet Bali Safari animals and great raffle!<

For IDR 10 000 the ticket, you may have the great opportunity to win a voucher for a night with breakfast at Bali Eco Stay (2 adults and 2 children) or a voucher for a Night Safari at Bali Safari & Marine Park for 2 adults and 2 children or one of our 10 great prices!!

The parents will also be pleased to enjoy a shoulder massage, organic drinks and snacks in our scenic warung. Do not hesitate to invite your friends and to talk about this event all around you!
We are waiting for you!



Source: balihappenings.com

Being Happy is Simple: An Art Exhibition

Being Happy is Simple

BEING HAPPY IS SIMPLE
Artist        :    Farid Stevy Asta
Curator           :    Rain Rosidi
Place        :    Kendra Gallery
Time        :    19.00 – 21.00 Wita

Farid Stevy Asta solo exhibitrion  is  entitled “Bahagia Itu Sederhana”/Being Happy is simple. The complicated situation, full of repression sometimes entails simple conclusion but giving freedom. That was at least in Farid Stevy Asta when he appears  hastag #bahagiaitusederhana (being happy is simple) in the social media. Farid writes about  hastag at twitter after passing certain moment in his social  association and found a mantra  that can  give him freedom: “being happy is  simple”. The mantra that is given life through  modern communication technology moves fast and beyond various gaps, social layers, problems of life and at the same time  gives birth to  various  creative works.

The creative youth of 30 years old underwent his artistic career in Yogyakarta among the show of sign of life of dynamic young people. Some of the many activities of young people in Yogyakarta are music and fine art, among other  kinds of art. Farid is in the center of it. He was a member of  FSTVLST band as text producer both  in songs and his visual works. He was also a part of  fine art world presented in galleries, art fair, and many  contemporary art events.

The development of Farid’s art worlds from previous periods is Farid’s attempt to tell by dismissing figures, character. In this exhibition, Farid created art works by inserting creative patterns that he works on his music where he usually composes songs for his band. As a writer of lyric, Farid lightly noted realities that he experiences in spreading small notes. These notes were then in the body of the melody that he works with other members of the band. In this works of art this time, Farid also functions to take notes realities, which then formed in visual art. As a disciple of real post modernism (as he acknowledges in the lyric of the song Manifesto, Jenny, 2009 ), Farid made visual combination  through  various kinds of influence he uses as the body for his ideas in commenting on  realities. His works is a place of various influences that meet, from measured work as the work of  Piet Mondrian, painting of Jean Michel-Basquiat, street art, rock ‘n roll, activities of young people of Yogyakarta and so on. Farid becomes an extraordinary collector with his creative talent and  competence that uniquely creates his work to become works that are free from influences, without claiming it as new discovery.

Contact:
Kusuma
kusuma@kendragallery.com
+6281936052678 / +62361736628

Location: Jl.Drupadi No.88B Basangkasa, Seminyak



Source: whatsnewbali.com

Exhibition at Komaneka Fine Art Gallery: TODAY

Source: gallery.komaneka.com

Nightlife in Bali 29th June 2013

MAINSTAGE

Cocoon Beach Club
Sunset Lounge
Feat. Joshua K
4-8pm
2 for 1 cocktails and beer 4-7pm
No cover charge

La Planca @Seminyak Beach
Ombak Bali International Surf Film Festival 2013
Surf film, music and art
Free entrance
Starts sunset

Mint Club
Secret Cinema
Warm up set by Wisdy & Mamsa
Starts 10pm (See HereNow)

Woo Bar
DJ Alan Braxe
He’s a French house, nu disco DJ
Free entry 11pm-4am

A-Club
@ 4th floor Akasaka
Fashionation
Resident DJs and sensual dancers Jakarta, supermodels on stage. Starts10pm

Akasaka Music Club
Saturday Night Fever
Home DJs and sexy dancers
from Jakarta. Starts 10pm

Bistro Batu Kali
Happy Hour
Cocktail 35k++ 6-11pm

Boshe
Wet Distors
Wet & sexy weekend party
Home band, resident DJs. Ladies enter free. FDC 85k. Starts10pm
10% off for bottle except
Brandy & Cognac

Bounty
Bountylicious Dance Party
Best DJ music, sexy pool, Arial Sil & Kuta Diva dancers Free entry

Chez Gado Gado
Sangria Saturdays and Sundays
Sangria for 75k++ or 400k++ pitcher

d’ Base Restaurant
and Fun Bar
Lively Fun Entertaining
Top 40s starts 9pm

Deejay Club
Dancetination
with resident DJs
Jaux Ion, Noldy, James Hendrik, Goez’D and sexy dancers
crazy minutes great disc on selected spirit/cocktail
get special cocktail inside
Starts1am

Deja’vu Kitchen
Rooftop Morning Yoga
with Amanda Jane. only 130k with healthy breakfast included
7.30-8.30am Rooftop sunset session Happy hour
Bintang beer 15k all spirits, all classic cocktails and all Dejavu cocktails except K-Royal

Eikon
Cuervo Night
Resident DJs Manda, Jerry & Mike. Coyote Cuervo Babes on the bar! Jose Cuervo promo’s
all night long

Finn’s Beach Club
@ Semara Luxury
Villa Resort-Uluwatu
DJ Lunch Session 1-3pm

Hard Rock Café
After Dark
T-Rex band
Sunset hour 5-7pm 50% off all alcohol beverages.
Starts 10pm

Hard Rock Hotel Centerstage
Don’t Stop the Party
Deviate band,
Premium spirits by the bottle 999k++ up to 1.5k++
Starts 8.30pm

Hu’u Bar
Mixed Tape
Mashin’up Classic-Pop-R
With DJ Yuyu & Krisna, Mc Gooze A.K.A Metro Mini

Hypnotized (Club)
Dirty Disco
Ourkid, Martin, Damz, Danny B
10pm-3am
Free flow beer 9pm-midnight

Ice Bar @ W Bali
Sunset on Ice
Feat. Resident DJ
Free Entry, Two ultra cold Beluga vodka at one price and complimentary chilled and cool canapés 5–7pm

JP’s Warung Club
Blues Ripper band
Blues night Starts 9.30pm

Klapa New Kuta Beach
Cliff Hoppers
DJs Monty, James Hendrik,
& feat. Violinist Febrina
5pm-midnight

Meja Kitchen & Bar
Surf & Turf
Special Recipe in Conjunction with International Surfing Day
With DJ Moko
Bottle promo 275k++
Penfolds rawson retreat wine

Nero Restaurant
Happy hour 4-8pm
All frozen cocktail
Buy 1 get 1 free
15% off all pasta
Live acoustic band
Ochy and the band. Starts 8pm

Paradiso
Saturday Fever
20% on games & F&B before 7pm

Piduh Restaurant
Bar and Grill
Piduh Acoustic & Grill Seafood Sensation Weekend
featuring Soul Rebel Acoustic. buy 2 get 1 free for Bellini & Tequila Margarita & Mojito
Starts 8pm

Pyramid Club
Very Special Promotions
Chivas Regal 12 800k
Absolut Vodka 800k
DJ Shammui
Starts midnight till dawn

Rock Bar
High Season
Resident DJ Martin East heads the DJ line up on the Sunset session from 5.30pm. Late night session from 9.30pm

Rooftop
@ The 1O1 Legian 4th fl
Rooftop Movie Night,
free popcorn.
Showing 2 box office movies
7-11pm
Saturday Sunset Gathering
In-house DJ. Sangria pitcher 101k, Bintang 4 bottle beer bucket 101k.
Seafood platter half price
Featuring in house DJ 6-8pm

Rumours
50% off spirits and classic cocktails from 10pm. DJ from 9pm
Seminyak Square
Weekend bazaar 10am-6pm
Balinese & fire dance
Starts 6.45pm

Sky Bar @Mulia Bali
The most rocking bar on the island
Live DJ performance
enjoy your 1st drink on us
6.30–9.30pm

Sky Garden
7 Big Rooms 7 Big Sounds
Big names, sounds, room with some of the biggest names to
appear in Indonesia
International DJ
Kickstart Weekends
Bintang beer 10k & double vodka redbulls 25k in the Dome 9-11pm. Free beer 5-6pm with purchase off BBQ sunset sessions 50k all-u-can eat sunset BBQ in the newly finished Vip Roof Top Garden 5-10pm. Free-flow 9-10pm

SOS Supper Club
Colors Sunset
Sunset session
with DJ Deddy Maze
Sparkling Saturday
Late night session
with DJ/VJ Patrick
Champagne cocktail promotion
15% off on all champagne cocktail

The Deck @Jl. Petitenget
Aussie footy live. Bintangs 15k,
Teq Shots 15k,Wine 75k, offers on other drinks from 10pm. Food specials too.

Upper Deck H2O
Saturday Night Fever
Resident DJ 7-10pm

Velvet (Restaurant)
Live music and acoustic performance 11am-midnight
Free flow beer 9pm-midnight

ZJ’s Bar & Lounge
@ Mulia Bali
Featuring Aftershock band
A stylish and hip sanctuary for the fashionable crowd
enjoy your 1st drink on us
Starts 10pm






Source: beatmag.com

Bali's Eco Week is a Great Inspiration for Many

Bali’s Big Eco Weekend Inspires Hundreds

By Maya Martini on 3:02 pm June 27, 2013.
Category Features
Tags: Bali, environmentalism, slideshow

Bali’s Kuta Beach is normally packed with tourists playing in the surf or toes in the sand.
But last weekend, the 9-kilometer stretch of beach was filled with famous surfers and environmentalists alike, all getting their hands dirty for a good cause.
“My life depends on the tourists, I want them to keep coming to Bali,” said Made Irawati, 40-year-old volunteer who has participated in the event since its inception in 2008.
“It’s our job to make sure the beach and the environment are clean and safe.”
For the past six years, Bali’s Big Eco Weekend, has served as one of the country’s volunteering linchpins, banding people from all walks of life, from tourists and locals to children and professional surfers all to clean up the beach.
Unfortunately, overconsumption and an overall lack of education have begun to choke Bali’s world-famous beaches. Kilometers of shoreline are riddled with trash. But thanks to events like Bali’s Eco Weekend, things are looking up.
With a red “Help Me to Pick Up Trash” banner draped over her shoulders, 21-year-old volunteer Vera was easy to spot during the beach clean-up activities.
“I joined this movement because I care about the beach and want to do something for our environment to make it better,” said Vera, who joined up with a few of her friends to spend the day spreading awareness and educating the public about ways to reduce consumption and dispose of waste properly.
“A clean beach simply means more to everyone.”
“Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia and it should be a priority for everyone to help conserve its beauty,” said Heriyanto Agung Putra, executive vice president of human capital and corporate affairs for Garuda Indonesia, one of the event’s sponsors. “That’s why we initiated ‘One Passenger, One Tree,’ a program designed at finding a solution to conservation issues.”
The weekend kicked off in front of the Kuta Beach Sea Turtle Conservation center with a crowd of eager children wearing turtle costumes scattered up and down the beach helping assemble volunteer teams.
Saturday’s events included the release of baby sea turtles into the sea, cleaning the beach — complete with the incentive of a trash collection competition — as well as tree planting.
Meanwhile, on Sunday people had the option of spectating on the sand at The Quiksilver Uluwatu Challenge surf competition, including a meet-and-greet with legendary surfers Mark Richards and Tom Carroll.
Eighty lucky surfers spent the day surfing and mingling on the beach with the crowd. Then, as the sun began to set, hundreds of enthusiastic people waded into the sea to release 1,000 baby sea turtles into their natural habitat.
Bali’s Big Eco Weekend cofounder Bruce Waterfield said this year’s event was aimed at not only educating the public about reducing waste and recycling, but also presenting viable economic options for ways to switch from consumption to conservation.
“This year’s event is simpler than last year, we want to educate people about trash and how to properly dispose of it, both locals and tourists,” Bruce said.
“A clean beach means more tourists will come, and by encouraging a sea turtle egg conservation program we’ll help grow the local economy.”
Founders and supporters know their struggle is a long and difficult one, but they’ve made great strides in encouraging both tourists and the local community alike to appreciate their environment and help pitch in to do the right thing for Mother Nature whenever they can.
“We hope one day we won’t need programs like this. In the future, we’d like for there to be no trash that we need to pick up,” Bruce said.



Source: thejakartaglobe.com

Bali's New Development Plan for Tourism

In order to prevent low visitation rates to Bali, the province’s regional government has planned to develop new potential tourist spots in Bali, as additions to more popular and crowded areas such as Kuta, Legian and Seminyak.


Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, but that status is recently facing many challenges. One problem with Bali is its tourism potential that has reached breaking point. Also, neighboring provinces such as West Nusa Tenggara and South Sulawesi are in the middle of developing their tourism potentials, opening new direct flight routes to Malaysia and Singapore as well as building new airport in Tana Toraja, adding further challenges for Bali to keep its tourist visitation numbers high.

In order to prevent low visitation rates to Bali, the province’s regional government has planned to develop new potential tourist spots in Bali, as additions to more popular and crowded areas such as Kuta, Legian and Seminyak. The plans include development of agro tourism aspects and emphasize in the least represented groups in travel and accommodation services: senior citizens. They are now viewed as a potential customer group because they can come in any time during the year and usually stay for longer time than families, student groups and honeymoon couples.

There are five prominent areas in Bali that become new development targets starting from this year: Kintamani, Bedugul, Amed, Gerokgak and Perancak. Some of them has actually functioned as tourism spots, but still need further development. The agro tourism spot in Gerokgak , for example, will focus on the growing of dragon fruits and pineapples, the most ideal fruits to plant in dry, tropical areas. This plan is expected to reach the same success previously achieved by Malang and Bogor with their agro tourism businesses that focus on local fruits such as apples.

Meanwhile, new focus of senior tourists will bring to the development of new facilities, including retirement village and health center. The whole development plan also includes new airport building plan in Buleleng Regency, therefore opening new and wider access to more potential tourism spots in Bali. Hotel Bali

Development of tourism spots in Bali will also focus on existing travel destinations that have received relatively less attention than popular spots. For example, since many visitors often head to south eastern coastal area such as Kuta and Legian, government will start to focus on southern areas such as Canggu, Umalas, Kerobokan and Singaraja. Although these areas are famous as surfer paradise and rural retreats, there are still complaints about the lack of transportation facilities. By developing other areas, Bali government can solve the problems of traffic, infrastructure quality and crowds in southern areas.

To follow the new development plan, local government will apply new law about standardized room rates for hotels, especially the ones that are below five star levels. This prevents new hotels to open unhealthy competition by offering default rates that are much lower than standard rates, ruining the market. The expected results involve the increasing of visitation numbers, reduced traffic and other infrastructure problems, and prevention of breaking point in Bali’s tourism potential.

With all of these development plans, it seems that Bali can expect for more tourists and increased visitation periods in upcoming years.



Source: prurgent.com

New Plans for Canggu Club

BALI-BASED entrepreneur Tony Smith has bought the island's only private members club, the Canggu Club near Seminyak, with plans to redevelop the 3.54ha site into a luxury resort and sporting centre.
The businessman, property dealer and former AFL player recently sold the luxury 63-room Semara Resort & Spa complex in Seminyak, which he developed with his Balinese partner, to a couple of Singapore-based developers. Mr Smith left the Gold Coast amid the global financial crisis four years ago.
As well as redeveloping the Canggu Club, which features a school and sporting facilities, Mr Smith and his wife, Simone, together with their Balinese partner, plan to increase the club's membership from its present level of approximately 700. Mr Smith said the club's facilities would be greatly improved.
They have bought the club and its site on a 41-year lease but are looking to extend the lease.

First, they want to build a sports and recreation club for members and visitors, then an accommodation resort where guests can use the club's facilities.
A third stage could see the development of a beach club at the Smiths' ocean-front Canggu villa nearby. The beach club would be open to the public but also connected to the Canggu Club.
"All these are ideas at this stage but we will have definite plans and details ... within the next six months," Mr Smith said in a statement from Singapore yesterday. The Canggu Club, which has a large colonial-style club house as its centrepiece, is situated about 10 minutes' drive north of trendy Seminyak and Mr Smith said there would be a big push to attract non-members to some areas of the revamped facility.
The Canggu Club's purchase price was undisclosed and the vendors were a group of expats.
The Smiths will continue to manage their other Semarang resort at Uluwatu on Bali's Bukit peninsula, where beauty queen Jennifer Hawkins was recently married.
Bali is increasingly a magnet for Australian developers and hoteliers. One of Australia's largest hoteliers, Mantra, is also keen on the Indonesian island and is in due diligence to purchase two resorts in Seminyak for more than $10m.
Mantra plans to manage a further two Balinese resorts.
Mr Smith started accommodation provider BreakFree Resorts and Holidays in the 1990s.
He later sold the business to MFS. In 2008 he was developing what was billed as Australia's most expensive beach house - a $60m edifice on the the Gold Coast's Hedges Avenue.
But, like others, Mr Smith was caught up in the $3 billion collapse of MFS.



Source: theasutralian.co.au

New Mangrove Care Ambassador: Christiano Ronaldo

The world football superstar was in Bali over the weekend to support efforts to educate and raise public awareness of the importance of protecting mangrove forests

Real Madrid and Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo took time out during the off-season to care for nature, flying to Bali to be the Mangrove Care Forum ambassador at the invitation of founder Tomy Winata, who also founded the Artha Graha Peduli Foundation.
The foundation aims to ensure the cleanliness, maintenance and planting of mangroves around Tanjung Benoa, together with local communities.
Ronaldo, who was accompanied by his girlfriend Irina Shayk, planted a symbolic mangrove with Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in Telaga Waja, which is located on the gulf coast of Benoa.
Also present at the event were First Lady Ani Yudhoyono and several of Yudhoyono’s cabinet ministers, including the Minister of Forestry Zulkifli Hasan.

"Cristiano Ronaldo has agreed to become the ambassador of Mangrove Care Forum Bali," Zulkifli said as he inducted the European international with a certificate of ambassadorship to the Mangrove Care Forum Bali.
Feeling honored at the opportunity given by the Indonesian delegate for him to be part of this community effort, Ronaldo thanked the stakeholders and pointed out that his visit to Bali aims to inspire the rehabilitation of mangroves.
"I would like to thank the President and the First Lady," he said.
“It's an honor for me to return to Indonesia. Earlier this year, Peter Lim and Tomy Winata made me a proposal to be the ambassador for the mangrove, and I was immediately attracted to the idea.
“I hope that my actions in Bali today can inspire the movement to rescue the mangroves and help improve the environment."
Winata revealed that Ronaldo's visti was purely for charitable purposes and that the player was not gaining any financial gain from this activity.
"Thank you Ronaldo, for your visit as ambassador to Mangrove Care Forum Bali," he said.
“Ronaldo’s role is entirely voluntary with no remuneration for his role in supporting the campaign mangrove in Bali. It is a testament to the dedication of Ronaldo to environmental causes and making the world a better place.
"Hopefully the message ‘Save the Mangroves, Save the Earth’ can reach all walks of life, young and old, rich and poor."
Sixteen years ago,Winata started a conservation initiative in Tambling Wildlife Nature Conservation (TWNC), whose scope is the conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife and rare forests, flora and fauna, marine and coral reefs.
During the mangrove plantation ceremony, which aims to further internationalize the message that the Indonesian people and government place great importance to the environment, especially the preservation of mangroves, Ronaldo was also reunited with Martunis, the boy who survived the tsunami in Aceh after about 19 days adrift. Throughout this time, the only clothing he had was a soccer jersey of Ronaldo. The reunion took place after nearly eight years since their first meeting in Aceh in 2005, where Ronaldo witnessed first-hand the devastating effects of the tsunami.
After being informed subsequently that less damage was suffered in areas where healthy mangrove forests thrived, Ronaldo readily agreed to lend his support to the Mangrove Care Forum’s efforts for conservation when he found out about it after a meeting with Winata earlier this year.



Source: goal.com

Who won the Oakley Pro Bali surf competition?

Joel Parkinson's bid for a second consecutive world surfing title is back on track after the Australian won the inaugural Oakley Pro Bali.

The reigning world champion caught a two-metre wave in the final minutes of Thursday's final to beat Tahitian Michel Bourez and claim his first ASP tour victory of the season.

Changing conditions on the last day of action failed to deter Parkinson, who earlier cruised past countrymen Taj Burrow and Josh Kerr in their respective quarter-final and semi-final battles.

The win has shot Parkinson up four places to number three on the world rankings and within striking distance of the title midway through the season.

Fellow Australian Mick Fanning now sits atop the ladder, despite losing to Bourez in the quarter-finals to finish equal fifth.

He has overtaken Kelly Slater as the current world number one, after the veteran bowed out in the fifth round.

Parkinson says his success in Bali will provide a much-needed spark for the remaining five tour events.
"This gives me heaps of motivation moving forward," he said.

"I've had two bad results and I knew I could change it around, but I'm glad I did it now rather than later.

"This win is so special because the event had such a good vibe and such good energy about it. This was huge. It was one of the best events I've been involved in."

While Fanning was happy with his result he concedes he has got more work to do in the back half of the year.

"It's just fired me up more for the next events," he said.

"It would have been good to get some more points, but it's still a result."

The next tour event starts on August 15, the Billabong Pro Teahupoo.



Source: abc.net.au

Ronaldo Tak Rewel Soal Makanan di Bali

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  Liputan 6 - Walau Selebriti Dunia Tapi Ronaldo Tak Rewel Soal Makanan di Bali

Liputan6.com, Denpsar : Pemain bintang Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo bersama kekasihnya Irina Shayk tiba di Denpasar, Bali, Selasa (25/6/13) sekitar pukul 22.50 WITA, dengan menggunakan pesawat jet pribadi.

Ronaldo akan berada di Indonesia selama tiga hari dalam rangkaian kegiatan penanaman pohon bakau (mangrove). Kapten timnas Portugal itu menjadi duta Forum Peduli Mangrove Bali yang digagas pengusaha Tomy Winata.

Walaupun bintang sepak bola kelas dunia akan tetapi Ronaldo dan Irina ternyata tidak rewel soal makanan ataupun meminta perlakuan macam-macam sebagaimana kebiasaan selebritas kondang asal luar negeri lainnya.

"Tidak ada permintaan khusus. Jamuan makannya seperti kepada tamu kami. Menunya ada ikan, daging, salad, ya seperti itu," kata Tomy Winata di Denpasar, Selasa (25/6/13).

Sebagai pihak yang terlibat mendatangkan pemain terbaik dunia tahun 2008 bernomor punggung 7 tersebut, Tomy berusaha menjamu tamunya sebaik-baiknya. Ronaldo datang ke Indonesia tidak terkait urusan sepak bola, melainkan sebagai Duta Forum Peduli Mangrove Bali. ()

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Cristiano Ronaldo main sepak bola di Bali, Indonesia

Uploaded on May 23, 2011

Video sebuah produk iklan di indonesia . saya hanya share tentang cristiano ronaldo pada video ini. terimakasih .

Uluwatu Temple at Sunset

Uluwatu Temple is a Hindu temple set on the cliff bank in south part of Bali Peninsula. It is one of Sad Kahyangan Temple in Bali (six big groups of Bali Temples), located in Pecatu Village, Sub district of South Kuta, and Badung Regency or about 25 Km southerly part of Denpasar town. It is situated on the coral reef sordid to sea about 80 meters above the sea level. It is featured by a small dry forest which is mostly called by Alas Kekeran (interdict forest) which is belong to the temple and dwelt by a lot of monkeys and other animal. Name of Uluwatu was come from the word Ulu meaning the head and Watu meaning stone. Therefore Uluwatu Temple mean the temple built in tip of coral reef.

Uluwatu Temple in Story

In the right and left of temple building or Pelinggih Ida Bagus Ratu Jurit located in complex of Uluwatu Temple, there are two stone mangers that look like a boat. When both of it are united, hence it's look similar to sarcophagus, the famous stone from megalithic era culture. There is archaeology omission coming from 16 centuries in firm of arch or winged entrance gate. Winged entrance gate is one of the scarce archaeology omissions. Winged entrance gate that is existing in Uluwatu Temple (a period of its making) can be compared with the same one located in mosque complex in Sendangduwur Village, Lamongan, East Java. The period of its making is relevant with the year Candrasengkala found at this inscription. Candrasengkala founded in the mosque is written by the wording Gunaning Salira Tirta Hayu meaning year 1483 Saka or 1561 Masehi.

If the sarcophagus that existing in Dalem Jurit complex area represents the artifact, hence Uluwatu Temple represents the place sanctified since era of megalithic culture (About 500 S.M). In papyrus of Usana Bali mentioned that Mpu Kuturan (The Hindu Priest who spread out the Hinduism in Bali) had built a lot of temple in this island and one of them Uluwatu Temple. In papyrus of Dwijendra Tatwa has been elaborated that Mpu Kuturan had visited this temple twice those are:

1. The first visit when he conducts the Tirtha Yatra (the journey to visit the holy places). His heart had jolted and heard a soul whisper that place good for worshiping God when arrive in Uluwatu. On that time, he chose this place as a place for Ngeluwur (re of soul /dead leave without body to return to the origin/moksa). Pursuant to the consideration then he set mind to build the Parhayangan or extend the building of Uluwatu Temple which there have previously. When Mpu Kuturan extend the building of Uluwatu Temple, he build hostel as residence and then the ex- the hostel building is used by the local people as a shrine named the Gong Hill Temple (Pura Bukit Gong). The building of Parhyangan in Uluwatu Temple is done by Mpu Kuturan in the early 16 century after he lifted to become the Purohita (priest of king adviser) from king of Dalem Waturenggong commander in the year 1460-1552 .
2. Mpu Kuturan on his second visit has reached the nature Moksa. OnTuesday of Kliwon Medangsya (Balinese Calendar), it was witnessed by a fisherman, his name Ki Pasek Nambangan, he looked the flash with very bright light step into the space called Ngeluwur.

Implicit at papyrus Padma Bhuwana that Uluwatu Temple draw in the direction that is located in Southwest functioning to worship the Rudra God, one of the god in nine god (Dewata Nawa Sanga). Rudra God is the Deity Siwa as Pemralina or return to provenance. In this papyrus also mention that Uluwatu Temple is the Kahyangan World worshiped by entire Hindu people. Since this area is opened for public, it is visited by many people from all over the world because it has beautiful panorama with spectacular sunset and stunning view of Indian Ocean and deep the cliff bank. It is the perfect to visit in Bali.

How to Visit Uluwatu Temple?

It is very easy to locate the Uluwatu Temple where you can reach it by any kind of vehicles. There is a good road passing Jimbaran countryside and go the one way to this temple. Uluwatu is one of the most beautiful Hindu Temple and famous in Bali Island. You can do simple to join the Uluwatu Temple Tour with Bali Star Island to discover the whole story of this site and you also have a change to have Uluwatu Tour Package as your preferable choice on your vacation in Bali.






Source: balistartisland.com

10 things to do in Bali

Located just south of the equator, Bali bombards you with beauty, beaches, and culture. The entire experience feels at once effortless and nonpareil – the apex of tropical living. Sure, the beaches provide a gravity that draws travelers from all over the globe to this tiny Indonesian Island, but the culture brings them back. The lure is as persistent and persuasive as a boiler room hustler. There's a saying that God lives in the Himalayas. I have a feeling he vacations in Bali.

There are no direct flights from the United States to Bali. The easiest way to get to Bali is through Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, or Jakarta. From any of these locations, it's simple to hop on a direct flight to Bali's airport in Denpasar. The cheapest international flights to Bali are from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur on Airasia or Jetstar. It's possible to fly from the United States to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur for under $1000 round trip, and onward to Bali for around $100 round trip. This is the cheapest way to get to Bali.


So what do you do when you've actually reached this pristine place? Read on...

Bicycle around Ubud

The streets of Ubud teem with culture. A great way to see the town, surrounding artistic villages, and working rice paddies is on bicycle. Start at Monkey Forest and visit with the infamous residents -- crab-eating macaques. Mid-day, head over to Goa Gajah, one of Bali's most unique holy places. To end your day, ride to the village of Petulu. A massive nightly Heron migration is said to be the manifestation of spirits felled in a communist cleansing back in the 1960s. The birds began showing up exactly one week after an especially brutal massacre and have roosted in Petulu every night since. The scene is holy.

No trip to Bali is complete without a stay in Ubud. Some of my favorite Ubud guest-houses are Tegal Sari, Tepi Sawah, and Greenfields. Book early and get a view overlooking the rice paddies. Some great bike tour companies are Bike Baik and Banyan Tree, but setting off on your own trip of discovery is much more exhilarating.

Gallery: Beautiful Bali

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Learn to Surf in Kuta

If the heart of Bali's culture beats in Ubud, then its hard charging Bintang gripping extremities flail about in Kuta. The scene is all here: bikinis on the beach, clubs that go all night, expat bars, hip travel cognoscenti, and intoxicated Australian high fivers. Depending on the experience you expect to derive from travel, Kuta will either be a place to remember or a place to forget. Perhaps, even a place to remember forgetting. Either way, Kuta does surf lessons brilliantly. Since the Kuta wave breaks over sand rather than coral, new riders do not exit the water grasping for gauze. This provides a perfect arrangement for wide-eyed noobs to pick up the surf game. After a day spent learning your way around a barrel, quench your thirst with fresh fruit drinks and a sunset at KuDeTa.

There's a saying that God lives in the Himalayas. I have a feeling he vacations in Bali.

Kuta Beach is a quick ride from the airport and full of cheap accommodations. Some great surfing schools are Odyssey and Rip Curl School of Surf, though hiring a local guide will likely be cheaper. If you possess some serious skills check out the legendary Ulu Watu break. KuDeTa is a seaside bar and restaurant that draws huge crowds. Get there early to secure a spot for sunset.

Sunset at Tanah Lot

The sea-draped temple of Tanah Lot rises out of the surf like a hazy dream along Bali's southwest coast. Beneath the waves that crash along the dark temple walls, a pride of banded sea kraits patrol the waters. The snakes guard the temple from evil spirits and harm. (Or so I've been told.) Tanah Lot is many things: magical, stunning, unlikely, romantic, and strange. It has a plucked from a dream aesthetic that allows you to believe the lore and have fun with it. A local told me about those sea kraits, and I believed him because the place looks so unreal. It seems to exist on dreamlike terms. Catching it at sunset frames the temple at its most beautiful and surreal.

On a map, Tanah Lot seems close to much of south Bali. Due to the layout of the roads, however, it takes quite a while to get there. It is best to hire a driver. Enjoy the sunset from the beach at low tide or up on the cliffs at a cafe. The nearby markets are a great place to grab some touristy trinkets and cheap art. I once bought 5 Balinese paintings for $27. If you enjoy golfing, then the nearby Nirwana Resort has the best links course in Bali.


Kecak Dance in Ulu Watu

In the 1930's, a German artist taught the Balinese a peculiar performance called the Kecak. The dance has no instruments, just vocal chords, about 100 of them. They chant generously and costumed performers dance and act out the Ramayana. While the 20th century German impetus may sound slightly inauthentic, you will hardly care about details as the sun slowly sets beyond the cliffs of Ulu Watu and you get lost in the chant. There is also lots of fire.

The show begins at 6:00pm nightly. Hire a taxi to drop you off at Ulu Watu temple. Once there, follow the crowds to the performance area. It is perched on the cliffs at the southernmost tip of Bali. Your driver will undoubtedly offer to take you to a Jimbaran seafood dinner after the show. Decline this service. It is an expensive tourist trap.


Snorkeling around Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island in the far west is a long trip from almost anywhere in Bali. The remote location augments the pristine experience by discouraging crowds. Much of West Bali is sparsely populated parkland, so it is a departure from the bustling south. In Menjangan, hire a boatman to take you out to the reefs for the day, and prepare to get your mind blown. Snorkeling does not get better than this. The bright reefs and strange fish will tattoo a smile upon your face. At the end of the day, shack up on the beach in nearby Pemuteran. It is wise to stay a night, or three. If you have time, then take a trip into Taman Nasional Bali Barat to view some Balinese flora and fauna.

The drive is over 3 hours from south Bali, so a day trip is way too cumbersome. A great way to experience Menjangan is too stay in nearby Pemuteran for a few nights. The Amertha in Pemuteran grazes perfection. Its secluded location framed by towering mountains and gorgeous villas with private pools is well worth the modest splurge. The amazing house reef full of critters just meters offshore will almost talk you out of visiting Menjangan. Don't let it.


Road Trip to Lake Bratan

With taxi rates substantially lower than Western standards, it is cheap and easy to hire a driver for a good old-fashioned chauffeured road trip: $50 for an entire day is about average. One of my favorite paths begins in the southern part of Bali and snakes up through the lush highlands ending at the otherworldly Lake Bratan. It takes about 2 hours. The lake is home to the unbelievably photogenic cover-girl temple, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. The mist hangs low, the air is much cooler, and it all feels so right. This is an enlightened place.

Arrange a driver for the day through your guest-house or hotel, or use my favorite driver, the extremely jovial Made Dana (081338719877).


Climbing Mount Batur

The volcanic Mount Batur and surrounding lake provide a proper setting for a gorgeous clamber to the summit. The best time to climb is the morning. Most groups begin their ascent around 4am, hitting the summit at 6 to watch the sun slowly rise over the Lombok strait. Bring a jacket and be careful at the summit. Batur is an active volcano and an unfortunate tourist fell into the cauldron in early 2010.

You can arrange a trip up the mountain with your guest-house or driver. It is not too physically demanding. If you find yourself bit by the climbing bug, check out Mt. Rinjani on nearby Lombok Island. It is beast and takes several days to summit.


Eat Babi Guling at Ibu Oka in Ubud

Babi Guling, or suckling pig, has made a name for itself as Bali's main course. Many roadside warungs serve the oinkers, but Ibu Oka has garnered some serious praise for its delectable hogs. Anthony Bourdain called it the best. We are in agreement on this point. Just go there, order a combo plate, and find a place in the crowds to hunker down and grub. It costs about 2.50 for a plate, which is a small penance for something with a "best" moniker. Wash it all down with an ice cold fruit drink.

It is hard to miss Ibu Oka in the heart of Ubud near Ubud Market. Just ask around. Be sure to arrive early for lunch; 11 am is early enough. They only prepare a few beasts each day, and once the food is gone... they shut down.


Rafting through the heart of Bali

You will get drenched, and you will love it. Rafting through the heart of Bali thrills the heart and frightens the mind. The rapids shoot you through Bali's lush interior like a drunken torpedo. The voyage zips passed rice paddies with working farmers and kids flying kites. It feels like traveling through a privileged backstage portion of Bali, and that is a great feeling.

Bali adventure tours near Ubud can arrange your rafting adventure. Like everything else is Bali, just ask your driver or guest-house for arrangements to be made. They will be happy to phone in their commission. Banyan Tree also arranges rafting excursions.

Attend a Buffalo Race in Negara

Water Buffaloes serve many purposes throughout Southeast Asia. They are agricultural tractors, beasts of burden, milk producers, a source of food, and...racing machines. In western Bali, on Sundays, these beasts line up and drag jockeyed chariots around an oval course like cans behind a car. The brightly accessorized water buffaloes grunt around the dusty track while local spectators shout their Bahasa encouragements.

Negara is quite a haul from South Bali, and the buffalo races start very early on every other Sunday during the dry season (July to October) around 7am. To arrive on time, it is best to stay the night prior to the races. Medewi is a nearby surf town with nice accommodations. Check out Medewi Beach Cottages or Medewi Bay Retreat. Once there, it is simple to arrange a driver to the races. To determine when the races take place, ask a tour operator or driver before heading towards West Bali. Things change often in Bali, and it is best to be informed to avoid disappointment.



Source: gadling.com

6 Hidden Beaches in Bali

If you are getting fed up by touristic beaches this post is for you. A unique post to help you to explore the wild bali and find Real Bali Treasure. You need just to get off the road and to be a bit adventurer.

Following the best Bali Hidden Beach:

Top 6 Bali hidden beach

Bingin Beach

Bali 's treasure: Bingin Beach

Bingin is popular among bali’s surfers but for getting off the road Bingin sounds Perfect. Bingin Beach looks like Uluwatu Cliff 10 year ago. Located in the Bukit between Padang-Padang and Dreamland (New Kuta Beach). Just before reaching Padang Padang turn right a small sign should indicate Bingin. If you are lucky you will meet the best young Balinese Surfers sponsored by well known surf Brand. Watching them is impressive. Here a surfing video taken in Bingin.

Impossible Beach

Impossible Beach In bali Indonesia

Another Bukit’s treasure. As you can see on the image above Impossible is another perfect surf’s spot. Impossible is a surf camp so for sure you will be alone on the Beach you will only see surfers paddling. Impossible Beach is next to Bingin it’s easy to find.

Soka beach

Bali Beach Soka

Soka Beach Bali

Soka is one of the most beautiful beaches in western part of Bali. Panorama view with chains of hills forms natural walls on the west side through to Batukaru Mountain Range on the north. On the eastside, Agung Mountain is seen in the distance and Indonesian ocean is on the south with the eastern tip of east Java in the backdrop.
Soka beach hides thousand of natural miracles and legends. One can find a massive coral stone with size of about 30 cubic meters surrounded by sand and sea water believed to be cooking pot of Balinese mighty man named Kebo Iwa.

Jimbaran’s Treasure Beach

Jimbaran Treasure Beach

Jimbaran Treasure Pond

Jimbaran Treasure

Not far from Jimbaran, this hidden is a treasure. We don’t want to tell where it exactly is, in fact every Bali lovers knows what happened with Dreamland. We don’t want the same future for this Bali’s jewel.Quite difficult to reach, I mean by car Jimbaran Treasure beach is a really small beach where you will feel like Crusoe. A small pond give to the beach another dimension.

Bias Tugal

Bias Tugal Bali Beach Padang Bai

bias tugal Bali beach Diving Spot

Bias Tugal is the perfect Diving spot in Bali far from the crowd. In the middle of the jungle you will feel great in Bias Tugal if you just want to dive, Swim and doing nothing. Not far from Padang Bai you will easily find this secret place by asking the locals and/or the divers.

Pandawah Secret Beach

Pandawah Secret Beach

Pandawah Beach  is one of the best bali’s southern Beach. Far from crowd, beautiful and clean, this beach is the place to go if you love postcard view.



Source: balihappenings.com

Billabong Asian Surf Championship

BALI, INDONESIA – In conjunction with the Asian Surfing Championships (ASC), Billabong is proud to announce that it will be hosting a 6 Star ASC event at Balangan Beach, Pecatu, Bali, from 4 – 7 July 2013. Set against a beautiful beach backdrop, Balangan is highly regarded by surfers for its long breaking left handed waves. The event titled after Billabong’s key global campaign, “Life’s Better in Boardshorts”, is a surf event that has been conceived to not just bring Asia’s best surfers together, but also beach lovers to have a good time.

Current Indonesian, and Asian Surfing Champion, Raditya Rondi says "I think it's so cool Billabong is back on the tour and hosting a contest in Balangan - it's really one of the best left hand waves in Bali!" He adds, "I’m really excited to see how the ASC will grow this year. It’s a step-up for the Asian surf scene, and definitely poses healthy competition amongst us athletes”

A prize purse of over 70,000,000 IDR is on the line. And surfers from all over Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan, Korea, China and Japan and Indonesia) will be competing in this inaugural event.

Competition Divisions

Mens:                 6 Star

Womens:                2 Star

Masters :                2 Star

Longboard:        2 Star

The 2013 Billabong Life’s Better in Boardshorts Surf Event is an open competition, and will play an active part in paving the way for the development and professionalism in Asian Pro surfing. ASC members will have priority seeding in the event, but early registrants will have their names at the top of the list for entry. 

Source: balispectacular.com

10th Annual Ubud Writers and Readers Festival

THE 10TH UBUD WRITERS & READERS FESTIVAL

2013 marks a mammoth year for the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, as Southeast Asia's most renowned literary event gets set to celebrate its 10 year anniversary, 11 - 15 October in Ubud, Bali. In 2013, the Festival comes full circle returning to its original theme Through Darkness to Light/Habis Gelap Terbitlah Terang honouring RA Kartini, Indonesia's beloved women’s rights pioneer. Beyond paying homage to Kartini, the 2013 program will focus on women's stories, women's rights and education, heroes and visionaries. Writers across all genres will be embraced, including travel writers, songwriters, playwrights, poets, comedians and graphic novelists.

UWRF POSTER COMPETITION OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS - ENTRIES CLOSE 7 FEBRUARY 2013
The UWRF turns 10 in 2013, and what a prestigious year to put your name on the winning ‘look’ of the Festival. The 2012 UWRF broke attendance records and is considered the best Festival to date. The 2013 Festival will be no less impressive with a rich program of writers, thinkers and performers appearing in some of Ubud's most elegant venues. It will be a celebration like no other, ackowledging the immense achievement that the Ubud Writers n Readers Festival has made to global literary profile of Indonesia. 2013 dates are 11 - 15 October.

The poster comp is your chance to be part of one of the region's most significant cultural events that is covered by national and international media. The winning design will be plastered over banners, café walls, social media, merchandise and more. The UWRF will once again make its mark. And this time, it could be your mark.