Melissa here...Chris took me on a birthday trip I will never forget. We only had two days, but we absolutely fell in love with Bali, Indonesia. I was able to get off of work at 4 pm on Friday and we were in paradise by 8 pm! We stayed at an amazing Balinese Villa with a private pool, outdoor bathroom and full kitchen. We loved the villa and were amazed at how welcoming and courteous the Indonesian staff were. We learned that although Indonesia, which is comprised of over 17,000 islands, is mainly Muslim, 95% of Balinese adhere to Hinduism. We were interested in little palm leaf packets of flowers we saw on the streets outside of every business, on statues and temples, and all over the beach. Some of the packets contained various flower petals, money, incense, crackers and other treats. We learned that the packets are offerings to the Gods for good luck and prosperity for the people and the businesses for the day, as well as a ritualistic praise to the Gods.
We also loved the architecture and Balinese style of living...think open air/ indoor outdoor/ wood and bamboo with natural highlights of stone and flora. The people were very warm, laid back and easy going. For example, we hired a taxi and the driver was happy to spend the whole day with us driving us from here to there, waiting for us, recommending interesting places to visit and making sure we were back to the villa in time for dinner! He did all of this with a smile on his face and for a mere 20 dollar charge!
The sunsets and beaches speak for themselves. (See pics below...)
The food was awesome! Of note was some BBQ ribs we had at a little place called Naughty Nuri's. Sorry my southern family, but these ribs were the BEST!!
Although it was a quick trip, we did get a sense of all Bali has to offer and we will surely be back soon! Thanks Chris for a GREAT birthday trip!
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| canang sari |
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| get ready!! |
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| look Julie, Succulents!! |
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| palm leaf flags. I love these. reminds me of the spine, maybe?? |
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| tanah lot temple (accessible only at low tide) |
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| love his eyes!! |
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| got milk? |
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| grampa grumpy monkey |
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| Balinese fruit bat! |
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| so tired....... |
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| offerings at the villa for the guests health and joy |
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| this is what pure joy looks like |
Goodbye Bali. We will be back......xoxo
