Saturday 27 May 2017

Bali Weekend Gateaway

What better way to indulge in oneself  for some retreat and recreation  was a short trip to Bali. This time minus Kaki 1, Kaki 2 headed to Bali with her friends.

The mere mention of the island itself evokes image of a paradise surrounded with beautiful sandy white beaches. But Bali is more than that. The true essence of it lies within the Balinese themselves. With a predominately Hindu population, Balinese still held on strongly to their culture as a way of life. Yet simple, they are warm and friendly in extending their hospitality.


Upon arrival, we were greeted by our guide cum driver, Mr Nyoman. A local Balinese himself who knows the island like the back of his hand, we couldn't ask for a better guide.

Day 1 : Checked in to Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana - Uluwatu Temple - Kecak Dance

It was past mid-day when we arrived Bali. After a long lunch, we headed straight to Uluwatu Temple to watch sunset and Kecak dance. Ulwatu Temple offers a spectacular view of the Indian Ocean as the temple itself is  set on a cliff bank. After a stroll around the temple, we proceeded to watch Kecak dance. Kecak dance is performed by 150 man clad in checkered cloth around their waits, depicts a battle from Ramayana without any musical instruments except the chorus of these men. Performed against the backdrop of the Indian ocean, it is best to arrive early to get the higher level seats if you want to enjoy both the sea view and Kecak dance. 


Since this is a R&R trip, we decided for a relaxing stay at Pullman Bali. It is situated conveniently along the Kuta beach with a short walk to the town area. We were greeted with a warm smile,  a glass of cool  refreshing drink and a scented damp towel to refresh ourselves. It was a very thoughtful act but meant so much to us after a long day out.




Day 2 : Tanah Lot  - Jatiluwih Rice Terrance

Tanah Lot's most recognizable icons are Pura Batu Bolong and Pura Tanah Lot, you have not been to Bali if you have not visited this area. We spent half of the day here as the cliff view here was just breathtaking. A good way to explore the cliff view  is to take a short walk up towards the direction Pura Batu Bolong, away from the tourist crowd. At the end of the trail is a nice cozy cafe where you can just chill and admire the view that only mother nature can provide.







Next stop was a visit to Jatiluwih Rice Terrace. It was supposed to be a short walk among the rice terrace but turned out to be something more that we bargained for. As we were there after a shower, the rice terrace was muddy and wet. We had to walked bare footed or risk our shoes being stuck in the mud. It wasn't an everyday affair to walk around without shoes but it was a great way to experience the country side life.







Day 3 : Pullman Hotel - Kuta Beach

Yes, spending time around the hotel is considered part of  my itinerary. And why not, with its beautiful landscape and modern amenities, it was time well spent. Not forgetting its international breakfast spread, I was spoilt with choices.




Living up to its name as one of the most famous beaches in Bali, Kuta beach was already buzzing with activities by the time we went there for a beach walk. Just sitting on the sandy beach and enjoying the sea breeze was the perfect way to end our short gateway.


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