BALIsexy

2006-07-12T21:51:00.000-07:00

NYEPI: Bali's day of silence Part 2

The lead upto Nyepi day is as follows:

Melasti or Mekiyis or Melis (three days before Nyepi)
Melasti is meant to clean the pratima or arca or pralingga (statue), with symbols that help to concentrate the mind in order to become closer to God. The ceremony is aimed to clean all nature and its content, and also to take the Amerta (the source for eternal life) from the ocean or other water resources (ie lake, river, etc). Three days before Nyepi, all the effigies of the Gods from all the village temples are taken to the river in long and colourful ceremonies. There, they have are bathed by the Neptune of the Balinese Lord, the God Baruna, before being taken back home to their shrines.
Tawur Kesanga (the day before Nyepi)
Exactly one day before Nyepi, all villages in Bali hold a large exorcism ceremony at the main village cross road, the meeting place of demons. They usually make Ogoh-ogoh (the fantastic monsters or evil spirits or the Butha Kala made of bamboo) for carnival purposes. The Ogoh-ogoh monsters symbolize the evil spirits surrounding our environment which have to be got rid of from our lives . The carnivals themselves are held all over Bali following sunset. Bleganjur, a Balinese gamelan music accompanies the procession. Some are giants taken from classical Balinese lore. All have fangs, bulging eyes and scary hair and are illuminated by torches.The procession is usually organised by the Seka Teruna, the youth organisation of Banjar. When Ogoh-ogoh is being played by the Seka Teruna, everyone enjoys the carnival. In order to make a harmonic relation between human being and God, human and human, and human and their environments, Tawur Kesanga is performed in every level of society, from the people's house. In the evening, the Hindus celebrating Ngerupuk, start making noises and light burning torches and set fire to the Ogoh-ogoh in order to get the Bhuta Kala, evil spirits, out of our lives.
Nyepi
On Nyepi day itself, every street is quiet - there are nobody doing their normal daily activities. There is usually Pecalangs (traditional Balinese security man) who controls and checks for street security. Pecalang wear a black uniform and a Udeng or Destar (a Balinese traditional "hat" that is usually used in ceremony). The Pecalangs main task is not only to control the security of the street but also to stop any activities that disturb Nyepi. No traffic is allowed, not only cars but also people, who have to stay in their own houses. Light is kept to a minimum or not at all, the radio or TV is turned down and, of course, no one works. Even love making, this ultimate activity of all leisure times, is not supposed to take place, nor even attempted. The whole day is simply filled with the barking of a few dogs, the shrill of insect and is a simple long quiet day in the calendar of this otherwise hectic island. On Nyepi the world expected to be clean and everything starts anew, with Man showing his symbolic control over himself and the "force" of the World, hence the mandatory religious control.
Ngembak Geni (the day after Nyepi)
Ngembak is the day when Catur Berata Penyepian is over and Hindus societies usually visit to forgive each other and doing the Dharma Canthi. Dharma Canthi are activities of reading Sloka, Kekidung, Kekawin, etc.(ancient scripts containing songs and lyrics).

2006-07-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

NYEPI: Bali's day of silence Part 1

Every religion or culture all over the world has their own way to define and celebrate their new year. For example, the Chinese have the Imlek year and to celebrate it, have, as they called it in their own language, "Gong Xi Fat Choy". The Moslem societies have their Muharam year, and any of the people over the world using the Gregorian calendar, celebrate the New Year on January 1st.

The same thing also occurs in Bali, however the Balinese use many different calendar systems. They have adopted the Gregorian calendar for business and government purposes. But for the endless procession of holy days, temple anniversaries, celebrations, sacred dances, building houses, wedding ceremonies, death and cremation processes and other activities that define Balinese life, they have two calendar systems. The first is the Pawukon (from the word Wuku which means week) and Sasih (which is means month). Wuku consists of 30 items starting from Sinta, the first Wuku and end up with the Watugunung the last one. The Pawukon, a 210-day ritual calendar brought over from Java in the 14th century, is a complex cycle of numerological conjunctions that provides the basic schedule for ritual activities on Bali. Sasih, a parallel system of Indian origin, is a twelve month lunar calendar that starts with the vernal equinox and is equally important in determining when to pay respect to the Gods.

Westerners open the New Year in revelry, however, in contrast, the Balinese open their New Year in silence. This is called Nyepi Day, the Balinese day of Silence, which falls on the day following the dark moon of the spring equinox, and opens a new year of the Saka Hindu era which began in 78 A.D.

Nyepi is a day to make and keep the balance of nature. It is based on the story of when King Kaniska I of India was chosen in 78 A.D. The King was famous for his wisdom and tolerance for the Hinduism and Buddhism societies. In that age, Aji Saka did Dharma Yatra (the missionary tour to promote and spread Hinduism) to Indonesia and introduce the Saka year.

2006-07-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

The Beaches of Bali

The island of Bali is blessed with the line of beaches surrounding it.

Sanur.
On the southeastern side of Bali, Sanur beach is easily reachable from Denpasar, about a 5 to 10 minute drive. Sanur is an excellent site to watch the sun rises, as you jog along the white sandy beach. One of the first resort developed in Bali, Sanur maintains its traditions. Only a stone throw away from the beach, ancient temples stand as solemn as they have been in centuries past.

Kuta and Legian
Practically on the opposite side of Sanur, the beaches of Kuta and Legian stretch on the southwestern side of Bali, again only about 5 to 10 minute drive from Denpasar or the airport. Surfing is a major activity in these beaches. Shops, Kecak dance performance, pubs, and other facilities make Kuta a tourist mecca.

Jimbaran
Jimbaran is directly south of the airport, on the way from Denpasar towards Nusa Dua. The village of Jimbaran is the narrow neck of the island of Bali, and thus it has two remarkably different beaches. On the west, Jimbaran Beach faces the Jimbaran Bay, recently lined by new luxurious resorts. On the east, the beach faces the body of water sheltered by Benoa Harbor.

Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is a new luxurious resort area where the world's most sumptuous hotels gracefully integrate into the beautiful white beaches. Crystal clear water provides excellent snorkeling and diving site, and the waves on the northern and the southern part of Nusa Dua allow for great surfing opportunity.

Soka Beach
Further northwest from Denpasar, on the way to Gilimanuk, the ferry port town that connects Bali and Java, there is a small quiet beach called Soka Beach.

Medewi Beach
Continuing along the path towards Gilimanuk, near the village of Pulukan, the beach of Medewi is another beautiful beach.

Lovina Beach
Near the northern tip of the island of Bali lies a stretch of villages by the Bali Sea. Lovina Beach is the name. It is well known as an excellent site for sunset watching, snorkeling, and diving. Night life activities are also abound, as well as chartered boats to go out into the sea. If you like what Kuta offers but do not like the crowd, Lovina Beach is for you.

2006-07-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

Months of Bali buffalos
"Mekepung" (buffalo race) is a thank-giving rites or ritual commemoration which is usually held after having good harvesting. It is usually organized by the cultivator organization (subak) involving hundred buffalos that are going to compete on racing. Annually, the important races are mostly held throughout this part of west Bali around August and September. Therefore for those travelers, who are staying in Bali between that period, get and catch the information about it to your travel agencies.
The racing animals are actually water buffalo, normally docile creatures, which charge down a 2 km stretch of road or beach pulling tiny decorative chariots, in which it is often little more than a sort of plough used in the fields. Rider stands on kneel on top of the chariots forcing the bullocks on, sometimes by twisting their tails to make them (buffalo) follow the curve of the makeshift racetrack.

While, the occasional races are also set up for tourists groups at a park in Perancak on the coast and minor races are held in the general area (best in Perancak). Starting from day break every Sunday, often finishing by noon.
So watch out your time and don't miss this formula one featuring with the buffalo race and make sure to keep your digital camera at hand because you are able to document the amazing annually moment in Bali.

2006-07-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

Christmas Day in Bali seems to be Hindu's Galungan Day

DENPASAR (indo.com): This year's December 25 is a special day in Bali as the Balinese Hindus celebrate Saraswati Day while Christians celebrate Christmas.

The Saraswati is a day devoted to Sang Hyang Aji Saraswati, goddess of all knowledge and arts. Balinese Hindus make offerings in the forms of literary works or books in celebrating the day.

On Christmas Day, Christians throughout the world, including those in Bali, celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ

Most churches in Bali start Christmas service at 7 p.m. Many hotels, including Radison, Oberoi and Grand Hyatt, decorate their interior with young banana trees and Christmas trees.

Even though most Balinese are Hindu, other religious adherents, including Christians can observe their religious duties. Balinese Hindus' high sense of tolerance leads other religious adherents to live in harmony.

The word Galungan, for instance, is frequently used by other religious adherents to celebrate their respective religious day.

Many Balinese Hindus regard Christmas Day as Galungan for Christians because Balinese Christians, mostly inhabit several villages in the west border between Denpasar and Tabanan, install decorative long bamboo poles, locally known as 'penjor' in fronts of their house compounds. The sight of 'penjor' is similar with that found when Balinese Hindus celebrate Galungan and Kuningan Day.

Thanks to the harmonious religious interaction, Balinese Christians in Sawan Village, Buleleng Regency frequently name Galungan Kristen or Galungan Day for Christians instead of Christmas Day.

Additionally, different religious adherents in Bali have a tradition of paying a visit to their neighbors who are Christians, especially after Christmas service is over. They give presents, mostly in the forms of basic needs for making meals or cakes, such as sugar and rice. Locals regard the present-giving tradition as a symbol of good wishes when other religious adherents are celebrating their religious day.

2006-07-03T21:49:00.000-07:00

As a tourist destination Bali has everything to offer - Great beaches, breathtaking scenery, good food, plenty of nightlife, great shopping, fantastic weather, a fascinating culture and more especially, friendly and warm people.

Although the tourist numbers dwindled since the October bombing last year, the number of tourists visiting the island is steadily on the increase. Garuda Airlines and the Bali Tourism Board have tried all kinds of inducements to increase tourism so that it will return to the boom days of the 90s.

The Bali Arts Festival and the upcoming Ubud Writers Festival are just two of the main drawcards during the year that are guaranteed to attract tourists to the island. But now there is another. I was reading in the Bali Discovery about an exciting program of Ubud-centred cultural events, tours, and an art auction organized by the Bali Bangkit Committee called the Spirit of Bali Revival and to be held July 12-23, 2006.

2006-06-26T16:46:00.000-07:00

Bali Doing Business with Europe
Bali Workshop to Seek Wider Business Ties with European Business Community on Saturday, July 8, 2006.
6/22/2006) A global business to business (B2B) workshop co-sponsored by the Global B2B Network, British Chamber of Commerce (BritCham), the Euro Export Network and the Kuta Small Business Association (KSBA) will be held in Bali on Saturday, July 8, 2006.

The session, running all day from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., will be held at the Sanur Paradise Plaza Hotel. Global B2B is a network of eleven offices across Indonesia dedicated bringing European-based enterprises and Indonesian Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) together through the creation of business linkages between provincial Indonesia and the European Union.

Open to attendance by both European business operators and Bali-based SMEs, the workshop will be a business networking opportunity and an information sessions on major issues affecting the development of trade between Indonesian and Europe. Local business people will be able to participate in a training session providing details on how to gain access to EU business development schemes with valuable tips and insights on B2B training, tuition and mentoring programs.

Free of Charge – Attendance is Limited!

Limited to only 100 participants, participation at the Bali Workshop is on a first-come-first-served basis with reservations available via telephone to the Euro Business Center at ++62-(0)361-759282 or the email link provided.

2006-06-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

Bali's Mangrove Forests Under Increasing Threat
Local Lawmakers Differ on Which Government Body Should Have Final Control Over Vital Mangrove Forests.

(6/18/2006) Bali's southernmost regency of Badung is home to critical mangrove forests covering an estimated area of 622 hectares.

In order to preserve this important asset which offers a natural barrier to tidal waves and erosion as well as a natural habitat to a wide range of wildlife and marine creatures, a member of the Badung regional parliament is suggesting that control over the Regency's mangrove forests be given to the regional government of Badung. According to Wayan Puspanegara, a member of Commission B of the Badung Parliament, his suggestion is “not an arrogation of current moves for regional autonomy, but a 'good will' recommendation to preserve the mangroves from various threats."

Quoted in the Indonesian language Bali Post, Puspanegara cited risks posed to Badung's extensive network of mangroves from property developers and local businesses who are trying to reclaim the forests for commercial purposes. The local lawmaker also pointed to incidents where solid and liquid wastes are being disposed of in the environmentally sensitive mangrove zones.

Another local parliamentarian, Bagiana Karang, called for more attention to mangrove preservation to be paid by Bali's provincial government but argues "now is not the time" for control of these areas to be transferred from provincial to regional authorities. Karang called for more coordination between the Provincial Government and the Badung Regency to preserve the mangroves which Karang sees as the "lungs" of the city of Denpasar.

2006-06-25T22:32:00.000-07:00

Places of interest and entertainment
Bali is known for its abundant attractions including sparkling beach resorts,achaelogical remains and scenic beauty. Many ways are available to take visitors to those well-known places to enjoy the beauty of Bali from the mountains to the coastline.

Gianyar: The capital-town of Gianyar district with old residence of the former Raja of Gianyar
Gilimanuk: West seaport for Bali -- Java ferry services
Gitgit: Breathtaking waterfall with natural beauty surrounding
Goa Gajah: Ancient hermitage with a Ganesha statue inside, often called the Elephant Cave
Goa Lawah / the Bat Cave: A cave situated in a temple courtyard and inhabitted by thousands of bats
Gunung Kawi: Acient memorial of the Balinese rulers, carved on a solid rock with beatiful surrounding
Jatiluwih: The most fantastic viewing spot of rice-terrace
Jungutbatu: White, sandy beach for surfers and divers on Lembongan island with simple accommodation
Kamasan: Famous for typical traditional paintings, gold, silver and brassworks
Kebon Raya Bedegul: Known for the Botanical Garden with wide selections of plants, and fresh mountain air
Kerambitan: Royal Palace spacious Gamelan Hall
Kintamani: Fresh mountain air with gracious Ulun Danu Temple and simple accommodation
Klungkung: Capital-town of Klungkung District, known for the old Court of Justice 'Kerta Gosa'
Kusamba: Fishermen village with salting-grounds
Kuta: The most well-known tourist resort in Indonesia, with marvelous white-sandy beach and beatiful sunset
Lovina Beach: Restful tourist resort on the northcoast
Mas: Well-known for special quality woodcarving and other handicrafts
Medewi: Pleasant beach for water-sport lovers
Mengwi: Known for Royal Temple Taman Ayun surrounded by moat with Manusa Yadnya Museum nearby
Nusa Dua: Magnificent white-sandy beach with a number of five-star hotels
Padangbai: Ferry to Lombok
Pancasari: Known for the best golf course 'Bali Handara'
Pejeng: Famous for Penataran Sasih Temple with a big bronze kettle-drum inside
Peliatan: Famous for its Legong and Kecak Dances and wood carvings
Penelokan: The literal meaning is 'place for looking', the most fascinating viewing spot overlooks the volcano and Lake Batur
Puleki: Monkey temple with hot spring nearby on the northcoast
Pulau Menjangan: Part of Bali Barat National Park with its underwater beauty and flocks of protected deers
Putung: Scenic point with marvelous panorama strecthing to the valleys with a sparkling sea seen in the distance
Rambut Siwi: Temple on the cliff known as the biggest in Bali
Sangeh: Forest of nutmeg trees with hundreds of monkey inhabitants and Bukit Sari Temple in the middle of it
Sanur: Exciting white, sandy beach known as one of the main tourist resorts with International hotels
Serangan Island: Known as Turtle Island, with diving area and Sekenan Temple
Singaraja: The principal town of Buleleng District formerly the old capital of Bali, known for Gedong Kirtya Museum (Old manuscripts on palmleaf)
Sukawati: Art Market with wide selection of artworks at reasonable prices
Suluban: Excellent beach for surfing
Tampak Siring: Well-known for the Holy Spring Temple with the State Palace on the hill
Tanah Lot: Scenic temple set on a rocky isle known as the best place for watching sunset
Tenganan: Ancient village of the original Balinese, known for 'ikat' handwoven cloth called 'Gringsing'
Tirta Gangga: Old Royal bathing place of the former 'Rajah' of Karangasem with pools
Toya Bungkah: Known for hot spring bathing-place by the Lake Batur
Trunyan: Ancient village of the original Balinese with specific tradition and custom, accessible by boat over the Lake Batur
Tulamben: Fascinating diving area with beatiful underwater scenery and the wreck of S S Liberty
Ubud: Famous among visitors from various countries for Museum of Painting 'Puri Lukisan' and country-side living
Uluwatu: Amazing temple perching on the edge of a steep cliff on the South Coast
West Bali National Park: Covers about 70,000 acres and famous for white starling (Leucopear Rothchildii) and wild bull (Boss Javanicus)
Yeh Pulu: Ancient reliefs on rock wall

2006-06-25T22:18:00.000-07:00

Places of interest and entertainment in BALI

Bali is known for its abundant attractions including sparkling beach resorts,achaelogical remains and scenic beauty. Many ways are available to take visitors to those well-known places to enjoy the beauty of Bali from the mountains to the coastline.
Here is a list of some places with brief descriptions:
Air Sani: Tranquil beach with fresh spring pools and accommodation
Alas Kedaton: A temple surrounded by forest monkeys
Amlapura: Principal city of Karangasem district with Raja's Palace
Bangli: The capital-town of Bangli District with beautiful Kehen Temple nearby
Banjar: Hot spring bathing-place with pool on the North coast
Batubulan: Known for stone carving and Barong Dance performance
Batur: Well-known for the active Mount Batur and the lake
Batukaru: Temple on the highland with lush vegetation surrounding
Bedugul: Beautiful lake-temple Baratan with harmonious mountain panaroma
Besakih: The biggest temple in Indonesia, or the Mother Temple, situated on the slope of the sacred Mount Agung
Bona: Center of palm-leaf and bamboo handicrafts
Bukit Jambul: Marvelous scene of rice-terraces
Candi Dasa: Peaceful white, sandy beach complete with accommodation
Canggu: Beach for avid surfers
Celuk: Center of gold and silverworks with artshops
Delod Berawah: Peaceful beach on the west coast
Denpasar: The capital city of the province of Bali with shopping centers, markets, Bali Museum and Art Center

2006-06-24T18:31:00.000-07:00

Bali Declaration

The Key is Understanding - The Bali Declaration President Tells Interfaith Meeting to Accommodate All Opinions in Dialogue on Faith.

(7/24/2005) President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono used the occasion of the opening of the AEM Interfaith Conference at the Bali International Convention Center on July 21, 2005, to encourage that even militant voices be granted the chance to be heard in the dialogue to discover common grounds of understanding between the world's great religions.

President Susilo, quoted by the National News Service Antara said, "the dialogue should involve groups representing all faiths. Every voice including those from the so-called militant groups should be heard."

The President's comments formed part of welcoming remarks to the conference hosting representatives from 39 ASEM partners and international observers, government officials, intellectuals, senior journalists and the religious leaders representing, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism.

The Bali Declaration

At the close of the two-day meeting, the participants passed the "Bali Declaration on Building Interfaith Harmony" that:

* Expressed sympathy for victims of the London terror attack on July 7, 2005 and all earlier such attacks, including the Bali bombing of October 12, 2002.

* Reaffirmed the importance of religious freedom in an international atmosphere of peace, tolerance, mutual understanding and respect.

* Acknowledged the wisdom of the world's faiths and religions.

* Acknowledged the various international initiatives promoting dialogue and cooperation among different religions.

* Proclaimed that all the religions represented at the Conference commonly advocate peace, compassion, and tolerance among mankind.

* Proclaimed that the right of individual to choose religion or faith can contribute to upholding respect for the diversity of faiths and religions, which is essential in combating ideologies based on extremism, intolerance, hatred, and the use of violence.

* Proclaimed the need for people of different religions and faiths to stand united against the use of violence to divide mankind; calling on all people to speak up against those who use religion to rationalize terrorism and murder.

* Proclaimed that peace, justice, compassion, and tolerance need to be cultivated and nurtured to help create an environment conducive to building harmony within the international community and people.

* Called on their governments to continue to promote interfaith dialogue.

* Encouraged governments to incorporate interfaith studies in curricula at the post-elementary level to promote understanding and respect for the various faiths and religions, giving due consideration to the specific circumstances of the respective countries.

* Encouraged research through seminars/workshops and other activities to define educational curricula that promote and strengthen interfaith dialogue.

* Called to strengthen cooperation on enhancing the capacity of human resources through exchanges of students, teachers and youth.

* Called for educating society to accept and deal with diversity and to prevent the emergence of extremism and prejudice through activities at the grassroots, national and regional levels.

* Called to prevent the marginalization of religion-based education institutions by integrating them into national education systems and goals.

* Acknowledged the linkages between religions and cultures, to promote shared values to strengthen harmony and understanding in society.

* Called to promote exchanges for better understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures, religions and faiths at all levels in Asia and Europe.

* Called to promote cross cultural awareness and understanding at all levels of society, particularly among the young.

* Called to strengthen and encourage freedom of _expression as the cornerstone of the participation of the media in promoting interfaith harmony.

* Called to ensure the upholding of ethics in journalism in reporting interfaith issues as well as conscious distinction between news reports and commentaries.

* Called for the upholding media professionalism and social responsibility by overcoming tendencies towards negativism and avoiding news labeling which lead to stereotyping religion and believers.

* Called to encourage religious/community groups to be more proactive in engaging the media to promote balanced coverage as a means of fostering greater understanding of religions and cultures.

* Called to urge the media to provide more time and space to cover issues and developments relating to intra-faith and interfaith dialogue and cooperation.

* Called for the promotion of exchange programs and scholarships to create networks among media personnel in Asia and Europe to share best practice and generate a greater pool of resources by involving media organizations, religious communities as well as governments.

* Called to define and promote common values, such as the respect for human rights and the protection of environment.

* Called on everyone to combat corruption in all its forms.

* Encouraged and supports the establishment of mechanisms within respective religious communities to strengthen ethical behavior and commonly-shared moral values.

* Called to make use of existing interfaith organizations and institutions

2006-06-23T18:45:00.000-07:00

French Cooking as Easy as 'Un, Deux, Trois'
Bali Celebrity Chef Chris Salans Uses Modern Food Technology to Bring Traditional French Dishes to Areas Far Removed from his Signature Restaurant – Mozaic.

(6/19/2006) American-born, but reared in the atmosphere of a French kitchen, Cordon Bleu Chef Chris Salans has earned a permanent pace in Bali's culinary hall of fame via his highly regarded restaurant Mozaic.

Set in a verdant, Heliconia-ringed garden - Mozaic offers diners one of Bali's most unique dining experiences built on world class gastronomic cuisine in combination with impeccable service. Using a passion for cooking with only the finest ingredients, honed during past employments with two 3-star Michelin restaurants, Salan's Ubud eatery is one of only two Southeast Asian restaurants recognized by the prestigious Tradition et Qualité Association as a member of "Les Grande Tables Du Monde" - a grouping including many of the world's most highly regarded dining venues.

Introducing French Cuisine

Eager to share his culinary expertise beyond the 60 seats available at Mozaic each evening, Chris Salans is now increasing the reach of his cooking empire to provide quality food to areas spread across Indonesia.

Determined that good food should be available to diners at functions in remote venues or workers in remote locations, Chris Salan hass just launched the somewhat generically branded "French Cuisine" using modern technology that guarantees a safe and hygienic food product in a ready-to-eat, high-quality format. Delicious dishes are carefully prepared by talented chefs in a commissary kitchen and then stored and chilled in sealed vacuum packs.

Easily handled and transported, the food packs can then can be stored for 2 weeks, or longer when frozen. And, best of all, unskilled personnel in the field need only to warm the original packages in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes before plating the dish before appreciative diners.

Chris Salans hosted a gala launching party to introduce his new line of "French Cuisine" at a private villa in Sanur's historic Batujimbar Estate on Friday, June 16, 2006.

2006-06-23T18:11:00.000-07:00

Saying goodbye to Josh Grillo in Seminyak Bali
By Dodyx,Juni 2006 |

Two years ago I was a single man. Two years ago today I was saying goodbye to Josh Grillo and friend from N. Carolina, who had been on a surfing trip here.

My house off of Jl. Dhyana Pura was still being equipped with bbq gear and I remember we had a hell of a party, the floor ending up pretty wet and everybody dancing. All Josh's friends were connections from college, very cool they all kept in touch, even though 2 were married.

One of the funny moments of our last night together, was during our dinner at Rumours, on Jl. Oberoi, 4 sexy dancers strolled in and started performing. I loved it, there were 2 on the counter and 2 more in between the tables. One of our party who was married, was reprimanded by his wife for 'acting like he had never seen a woman before'. So funny. Rumours is still an okay deal for western food, although not the bargain basement it once was. You can still get a damn good beef stroganoff for around 30,000rp.

During Josh's trip out to Bali he went to Lombok and Sumbawa, and told me some of the best surfing he's ever done was at Lakey Peak in Sumbawa.

2006-06-15T03:39:00.000-07:00

ROMANCE COMPREHENSION
DISCUSSION TECHNIQUE

A woman has the last word in any argument.
Anything a man says after that is the
beginning of a new argument.

COMPREHENSION
There are 2 times when a man doesn't
understand a woman--
before marriage and after marriage. ....

ROMANCE MATHEMATICS
Smart man + smart woman = romance
Smart man + dumb woman = affair
Dumb man + smart woman = marriage
Dumb man + dumb woman = pregnancy

OFFICE ARITHMETIC
Smart boss + smart employee = profit
Smart boss + dumb employee = production
Dumb boss + smart employee = promotion
Dumb boss + dumb employee = overtime
SHOPPING MATH
A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.
A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need.

GENERAL EQUATIONS & STATISTICS
A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband.
A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.

HAPPINESS
To be happy with a man, you must
understand him a lot and love him a little.
To be happy with a woman, you must love
her a lot and not try to understand her at all.

MEMORY
Any married man should forget his
mistakes, there's no use
in two people remembering the same thing.

PROPENSITY TO CHANGE
A woman marries a man expecting he will
change, but he doesn't.
A man marries a woman expecting that she
won't change, and she does.

2006-06-13T22:46:00.000-07:00

Festival displays artistic works from Bali

DENPSAR (indo.com): As a culturally-rich tourism destination, Bali offers cultural programs that lure tourists to the island of gods. One of the most popular ones is Nusa Dua Festival. The Nusa Dua Festival is held annually, with theme changing from year to year.

With its crystal clear water and stretches of white sandy beach, Nusa Dua is well known as a haven of luxurious resorts. As Bali's only fully-integrated tourism resort destination, the peninsula is the perfect backdrop for this marvelous blend of performances, entertainment and activities.

This year's Nusa Dua Festival will kick off on September 8 and will run through September 16, 2004.

"Udiana Lelanguan" will be the central theme of the eight Nusa Dua Festival. The theme is taken from an ancient story of Sutasoma. Sutasoma tells of a man living in a magnificent garden and achieves a peaceful life through sincere sacrifice.

The Nusa Dua Festival will showcase most unique artistic works from Bali. They include Calonarang, Baris and Gambuh mask dance performances.

Bali's internationally acclaimed choreographer Nyoman Sura will perform modern dance.

The festival will also feature puppetry shows, with top puppeteer Ida Bagus Arjawa expected to demonstrate his skill in performing puppet play.

The Festival will open on Wednesday, September 8 with a massive Peed Agung - a parade of cultural troops, floats and performers that will wind itself through the complex and past a VIP reviewing platform.

Many hotels in Nusa Dua will also take part in the festival by providing booths or stands for interested handicraft vendors free of charge. Vendors are expected to display their products. Artisans and chefs will demonstrate their skills in making handicrafts items and preparing cuisine respectively.

2006-06-13T22:39:00.000-07:00

Playboy Publishes 2nd Edition from Bali

You really have to give the publishers of Playboy magazine in Indonesia full credit for their latest initiative. They have released the 2nd edition of Playboy from their new office in Bali.

After getting slammed on the island of Java for their publication and having their offices trounced, they upped stumps and moved to Bali opening an office there. At least on the tolerant island such a publication can be accepted being sold on the streets.

I have followed this situation ever since it started and I really cannot understand what all the fuss is about. There are no lewd photographs of nubile young ladies with their mammaries hanging out or even the slightest hint of a loin-stiring story. Candika's brother did manage to see a copy of the 1st publication and he commented that there was more advertising than articles.

It's all in the name and the reputation the publication has in western countries.

I can remember when I was in Yogyakarta in the 90s, there was a pocket- size handbook available for sale throughout the island on the best hotspots in Jakarta. The predominant entries in the small tome were of brothels and the best places to score with ladies of a particular persuasion. Go figure.

Here is a related article for you to peruse:

Playboy publishes 2nd edition from Bali

A second edition of Playboy hit the streets of Indonesia Wednesday as the local publisher moved its offices to Bali island two months after Islamic hardliners threw rocks at its Jakarta offices following the magazines debut.

The magazine has been toned down for publication in the worlds most populous Muslim nation but the first edition nonetheless drew violent protest from hardliners who say the contents are immoral and violate criminal codes. Frightened advertisers responded by pulling their ads.

The magazines new Bali offices opened Wednesday.

"The safety and convenience of our employees comes first" publisher Erwin Arnada said of the decision to relocate offices to the Hindu majority island of Bali, a haven for foreign tourists. "People in Bali are more open to ideas and they are more adaptable."

Erwin who is also the magazines editor-in-chief said 100,000 copies of the 160 page edition void of photos of naked women and advertisements were being printed.

The magazine which was being hawked car to car on crowded intersections of the capital, features an interview with Fabianus Tibo - a Christian hardliner on death row for an attack on a Muslim boarding school - and follows the history of the local wine culture.

2006-06-13T21:23:00.000-07:00

Ubud Bali

Luxury resorts in Ubud and other parts of Bali include world-renowned Aman resorts (Amandari in Ubud and Amankila in Candi Dasa), Kamandalu Resort & Spa, and Pita Maha Resort of Tjampuhan, Ubud. On the comfortable and inexpensive to moderate range, you can find hotels like the Yulia Village Inn, the Padma Indah Cottages of the Rudana Museum, and Hotel Tjampuhan. Their rates vary from US$ 30 to US$ 90 a night.
To continue this Web site (since you all like it - thanks to all who have dropped us email. We love getting them) and to serve you even more, a number of hotels have placed their information with us, offered you generous discounts, and agreed to sponsor this Web site through commissions. Please patronize them: make your reservation through Bali Online and stay with them in Bali. And in the words of Bartles and Jaymes,

2006-06-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

Jewelry of Bali

The village of Celuk, located in between Batubulan and Sukawati, less than an hour away from Denpasar, has evolved into the center of silver and gold jewelry making. Much like the watch making industry in Switzerland, the trade of silver and gold jewelry has become home industry to practically everybody in Celuk. The trade that was started by a small number of Pande (smith) clans has permeated everybody in Celuk, with every home in the village has a small silver and gold production studios.

The silver and gold products that they make are quite wide, ranging from earrings, necklaces, pendants, brooches, rings, bracelets, and other accessories. Here, as in other artistic creations of the Balinese, their cultural heritage distinctively mark their creations. Intricate patterns similar to that found in batik become the center theme of a large hair pin, worn by women for certain ceremonies. Silver bracelets or rings model the snakes that guard the Temple of Tanah Lot. Nature and culture find another manifestation in the silver and gold artistry of the Balinese.

The road from Batubulan to Celuk to Sukawati is lined with dozens of galleries and shops, displaying many kinds of silver and gold jewelry and crafts. Stop by, and if you can't find exactly what you are looking for, ask for it. The gallery owner will happily go back to his studio to create the piece of your desire

2006-06-13T21:06:00.000-07:00

Sunsets of Bali

There is only one word to describe the sunsets in Bali: spectacular. In winter solstice in December, when the sun is close to its lowest point, a large, bright orange, red sun will approach the horizon of Kuta, descending ever so slowly. Brilliant shadows are cast everywhere, golden reflection on the water, and strips of clouds march as if to curtain another day. One light strip of cloud will probably march straight into the view, stealing the completeness of the sun, as if to accessorize it with a flowing silk scarf. Millions pairs of eyes are fixated, as the sun's bottom touches the horizon, and, in a matter of minutes, vanishes from the sight, as if it was never there.

Or, in Tanah Lot. A several hundred years old temple stands erect, solemnly guarding the land from the wilderness of the sea. Yet, as the sun begins its journey to its nightly resting place, the brilliance of an orange, red sun softly falls onto the side of the temple, raising its mystique even more. As waves break into the natural stone foundation of the temple, teasing the hundreds of little snakes in the cave in front of the temple, the sun marches down slowly. The millions of people it fascinates do not disturb it, for its ritual must flow. As it draws near the horizon, a magnified shadow of the temple is cast upon your eyes, as if to whisper good night. And in a couple of minutes, the sun rests, leaving traces of the day that has just passed.

2006-06-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

Ngaben

Ngaben or the Cremation Ceremony is the ritual performed to send the dead through the transition to his next life. The village Kul Kul, hanging in the tower of the village temple, will sound a certain beat to announce the departure of the deceased. The body of the deceased will be placed at Bale Delod, as if he were sleeping, and the family will continue to treat him as if he were still alive yet sleeping. No tears are shed, for he is only gone temporarily and he will reincarnate into the family.

The Priest consults the Dewasa to determine the proper day for the ceremony. On the day of the ceremony, the body of the deceased is placed inside a coffin which is then placed inside a sarcophagus in the form of a buffalo (called Lembu) or a temple structure called Wadah made of paper and light wood. The Wadah will be carried to the village cremation site in a procession.

The climax of Ngaben is the burning of the Wadah, using fire originating from a holy source. The deceased is sent to his afterlife, to be reincarnated in the future.

2006-06-13T20:49:00.001-07:00

Gastronomical Tour of Bali

Your gastronomical experience in Bali is as enchanting and full of discovery as your cultural experience. I am a total believer that a significant portion of traveling should also involve your tastebuds. Of course, if you prefer to stick with cheeseburger or a Colonel Sanders' meal-deal, or to drink your regular Bud light in your Hard Rock Cafe, they all exist in Bali as well. But we know that's not why you come to Bali, is it?

(Oh, by the way, the picture above is not a picture of food for you - it's food for the gods and goddeses. However, the Balinese believe that the gods and goddesses like and enjoy things that the mere mortals enjoy - so you would see offerings consisting of excellent food, and feasts and parties thrown as ceremonies.)

Let us take this culinary adventure (would you care for the java of Bali first?):

What's in a meal?
Well, typically, a meal consists of a plate of steamed rice, and a number of main courses. Instead of eating one course at a time a la Western meals, the main courses, and sometimes including the soup, are all eaten at once. Soup is poured over the rice much like a steak sauce is poured over the steak. Desserts are mostly tropical fruits, which by themselves are enough of a feast and a reason to visit Bali!

Balinese usually eat three meals in a day, with lunch as the primary, heaviest meal. Breakfast can be as light as a cup of coffee (which is usually not light), or a plateful of "nasi goreng" or fried rice. Lunch is the heaviest meal, with a plate of steam rice (or a mound if you prefer), accompanied by a number of main courses, usually consisting of a meat or fish dish, a vegetable dish, and a soup. Dinner is a smaller version of lunch. Desserts for both lunch and dinner can vary from various kinds of fruits, depending on the season, to a specially prepared dessert like pisang goreng (fried banana fritters) or tape (fermented sticky rice).

Rice
As my grandmother used to say, you haven't had a complete meal unless you have had rice. Rice is the basic food for most of Asians. But it is more than that for Balinese - it is the basis of life itself. One of the most respected goddesses in Bali and certainly the most popular is Dewi Sri - the goddess of rice. The rituals of rice, from planting to harvesting are an important part of a Balinese life.

Steamed rice
But we digress. How do Balinese prepare rice? First and foremost, to guarantee absolute freshness, threshing rice is done daily by the women of the family. In a clay pot, you wash the result twice, enough to clean it yet does not wash out the taste. You pour water until it is about one joint of your middle finger above the surface of the rice. Covered with a lid, the pot is put on top of a medium fire. When it boils, you slide the lid a little bit, allowing the steam to escape. When the water is gone (but the rice still looks very wet and sticky), you lower the fire and keep the pot there for a few minutes. You will get a delicious, aromatic, and moist steamed rice that even the royalties of Bali will appreciate.
Of course, if you can't manage your daily rice threshing, or a clay pot, the modern stainless.

Of course, if you can't manage your daily rice threshing, or a clay pot, the modern stainless steel version would do. Or a rice cooker, if you must.

Fried rice
Besides steamed rice, Balinese also eat a lot of fried rice, usually for breakfast. The idea is that you fry rice that you have left over from the previous night. It is simple to prepare, yet it has such a glamour.

First, you heat oil in a large wok, throwing in chopped shallots to flavor and to add a nice aroma into the oil. Then you put things that you want in the fried rice. You can put shrimp or pork or vegetables. Next comes the rice. You add salt to taste and pour a good amount of soysauce until the color turns brown. You can also add chili pepper to taste. Leave it for a few minutes, and it's done.

Now, the presentation. Balinese like to eat their fried rice with eggs, either a super thin omelette cut into thin slices and mixed with the fried rice, or a sunny-side up (we call it "mata sapi" - cow's eyes, literally). Additionally, you slice cucumber into thin slices, and decorate the sides of the plate with them. Lastly, add a touch of fried shallots and a krupuk. With a glass of es teh manis (iced tea, sweetened), you are ready for a wonderful breakfast. This is childhood memory of Sunday morning for many Indonesians...

2006-06-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

2006-06-13T18:13:00.001-07:00

Hindus celebrate "Galungan", the day of triumph

Ten days between Galungan and Kuningan days, or exactly from May 03 - 13, 2006, Balinese Hindus are celebrating the victory days of good over evil. These celebrations are the most important in the Pawukon calendar. However the most religious celebration is conducted on Galungan Day, which falls on May 03, 2006

This month of year is a chance to see this beautiful island at it is the prettiest since all house compounds and entrance gates are decorated with Penjor, the long, over-hanging bamboo poles decorated with elaborate creations carved and woven from leaves and natural fibers. Schools close and commerce ceases, as attention focuses solely on the devotional activities associated with this special holiday.

During Galungan, it is believed that the deified ancestors of the family descend to their former homes where they must be entertained and given offerings. Offerings are also made at the gravesides of those awaiting cremation and their final release into the world of spirits.

Three days before Galungan is called Penyekeban day, which falls on Sunday, October 01, 2005 – the day on which to cover up fermented cakes. Green bananas are sealed in large clay pots and covered with coconut husk in order to ripen them quickly: huge quantities of bananas are required for Galungan offerings.

Likewise, Penyajaan day, which falls two days before Galungan Day, or exactly occurred on Monday, May 01, 2006. The day is devoted to making many colored cakes of fried rice dough. These are much loved by the Balinese and are used as offerings in numerous ceremonies. Mountains of these cakes can be seen in markets, as a busy housewife will often not have time to make them herself.

One day before Galungan is called Penampahan day, which falls on Tuesday, May 02, 2006 when many pigs are slaughtered for the traditional Galungan morning feast. An essential feature of the menu is the traditional lawar, a spicy hash made of finely chopped pork and dozens of spices. The preparation to make dozens of sticks of the traditional Balinese satay is also done in this slaughter day for the mourning feast and for making the offering to the dead people, which have not been cremated yet.

The following day of Galungan is Umanis Galungan, which falls on Thursday, May 04, 2006 when the devotional duties and feasting are over and families take to the road to visit families and friends and really get into the holiday spirit.

The celebration of the triumph days will last on Kuningan Day, which falls ten days after. It is actually falls on May 13, 2006, when the colorful offering are also offered by every house compound throughout Bali Island.

During the first and second week of May this year is an absolute great experience not to be missed while you are spending your great holiday in Bali. .

2006-06-13T18:13:00.000-07:00

2006-06-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

The Barong
Dance of Bali

Barong is probably the most well known dance. It is also another story telling dance, narrating the fight between good and evil. This dance is the classic example of Balinese way of acting out mythology, resulting in myth and history being blended into one reality.

The story goes that Rangda, the mother of Erlangga, the King of Bali in the tenth century, was condemned by Erlangga's father because she practiced black magic. After she became a widow, she summoned all the evil spirits in the jungle, the leaks and the demons, to come after Erlangga. A fight occurred, but she and her black magic troops were too strong that Erlangga had to ask for the help of Barong. Barong came with Erlangga's soldiers, and fight ensued. Rangda casted a spell that made Erlangga soldiers all wanted to kill themselves, pointing their poisoned keris into their own stomachs and chests. Barong casted a spell that turned their body resistant to the sharp keris. At the end, Barong won, and Rangda ran away.

Somebody can die or get seriously injured in a Barong dance. It is said that if Rangda's spell is too strong, a weak soldier may not be able to resist it, even with the help of Barong. He may end up hurting himself with his own keris.

The masks of Barong and Rangda are considered sacred items, and before they are brought out, a priest must be present to offer blessings by sprinkling them with holy water taken from Mount Agung, and offerrings must be presented.

2006-06-13T17:49:00.000-07:00

$1 Million in Google AdSense Earnings
By: Scott Adams

They are calling him the million dollar man. Jason Calacanis recently revealed in his blog that he is on track to earn a million dollars from AdSense over the year ahead.

And if that number doesn't wake you up and have you sitting on the edge of your seat, consider for a moment that he reached this level in less than a year. His company only started using AdSense in September 2004.

Calacanis runs Weblogs Inc., a network dedicated to creating trade weblogs across niche industries. And he's quickly proven that AdSense is a credible advertising partner.

As their network has grown, so has their AdSense revenue. In January 2005 they earned an average of $580 per day. In March it was $737. In May it was $1,585. One day in July, just before he made the blog entry referred to above, they earned $2,335. Remember that is just for one day. If they can take that daily average to $2,740 they'll be earning a rate of $1 million for a year. And Calacanis predicts that reaching daily earnings of $3,000 or even $5,000 is quite achievable.

That's quite an achievement. Keep in mind that Calacanis has 103 bloggers on the payroll and nine staffers. Even so, many webmasters would give an arm or a leg to have even a third of that.

Google's AdSense has been revolutionary. It has become firmly established as the darling of the online advertising industry. Although rumors are heard of major competitors launching a similar service, AdSense's premier position seems secure for now.

In essence, AdSense has made it possible for almost anyone with a web site or blog to earn some revenue from advertising, without having to employ sales people or spend precious time searching for advertisers.

AdSense works like this. Webmasters sign up for an account in just a few minutes. They receive a small snippet of code to include on their web pages. Google will then automatically serve advertisements that are relevant to the content on the webmaster's pages. When someone visits the webmaster's site and clicks on one of Google's AdSense advertisements, the webmaster earns a fee. Advertisers can pay anywhere from five cents to a hundred dollars per click, and the webmaster receives a percentage of that fee.

Many webmasters are content with earning five to ten dollars from AdSense to cover the cost of web hosting. But many, unsurprising, have higher ambitions. At a popular WebmasterWorld forum, participants share tips and encouragement on reaching a goal of $300 per day from AdSense. So it is no wonder that Calacanis created quite a buzz when he made his million dollar blog entry.

Google have proven once again that they excel at designing innovative Internet services. If you are in the web industry and have not yet used AdSense, then perhaps you should try it out. Or if you are already using it, perhaps Calacanis' impressive results will encourage you to track the performance of your AdSense units more closely, fine tune their

2006-06-13T07:59:00.000-07:00

About Google Adsense

What is Google Adsense
Google Adsense is the way of quickest;fastest and very easy to yield the money to all owner any publisher type only provide the space for the advertisement of Google Adsense of where the advertisement correlate and as according to content or the theme situs. You perhaps have recognized by Google non? By Adsense this, Google give the opportunity to us all to participate in presenting advertisement at our website and give the commission to the owner website if visitor of presented website advertisement clicking. That commission is different each other depended by keyword which we use. Costly progressively keyword which we use of course faster and big [of] our earnings

How much/many Commission which You Can Get from Google Adsense?
Google automatically will present the advertisement as according to content pertinent website. Commission got to be depended by the popularitas advertisement ($ 0.03 -$ 20 / click). And I will show the you how come get the rata2 $ 10 - $ 100 / month. It is very easy

How Do You Start it truly
Have no the website? Enough you invest a few/little money by buying website instant in website-adsense.com, afterwards you can be direct upload, or where necessary modification of a few/little. Don'T fear, you we give the guidance about way of its modification. Enough 5 file which must be altered, afterwards your website adsense have yielded the dollar. Practical and easy to non?

Ready For From Now On Also
Before You start to register in Google Adsense hence first matter is you Which must prepare a English-speaking website ( content). You needn't be busy look for the content tsb, enough by buying in website-adsense.com
Later;Then you have to buy the hosting and domain. A lot of penyedia of service of webhosting and domain [in] internet, you omit to chosen it
Possible You enquire, better fill the / my content website what yes? I suggest to select;choose the content by keyword with the high click value. With the high click value, assess the dollar you to yield also will be ever greater
So, after Your website ready to, conduct the registration of Adsense Google by enlisting to www.google.com / adsense
Your Registration Adsense usually eat the time of about 1-3 day to get the Approve from Google.

Process The Registration
Remember! When conducting Your registration Google Adsense have to use the Complete Name + Clear Address according to KTP, because Your cheque to accepted later will mention the Name + Consignee Address check. And when You liquefy the the cheque [in] bank, hence one of its verification to You have to show the KTP. Google wish to ensure that the consignee check Your own non others ( because people even also in fact cannot liquefy the the cheque, because name and address yg contained in cheque of unlike its KTP
If You do not own the KTP / clear address, I suggest You borrow the friend property / you, henceforth omit You arrange / communicating in step hereinafter ( liquefaction check the
Cheque Google use the account Citibank. You can be direct liquefy the the cheque ( without cut by expense) in Citibank with Your note own account in Citibank. To open account in your Citibank have to own to minimize 5 million. Woow!
But otherwise own it, You still can liquefy the the cheque in other;dissimilar bank like BCA, Self-Supporting, BII Dll ( kliring) by getting cutting ( more or less 200 rb
When You enlist the Google Adsense set the currency you To is accepted in USD DON'T RUPIAH. Cheque which You is accepted also later in USD, live in the adapted for by just rupiah of that moment rate
Way Of Obtaining Click ($$$)
After Your account Adsense accepted, important step hereinafter how to get the click ($$$) through Your website. It is true, appropriately to get the click which finally conducive to the dollar is by is which during the time suggested by Google, for example - Your Website have to is often updated - Your Website have to a lot of visitor - Your Website have to enter the especial search engine ( google, yahoo, msn). That is ideal and appropriately.
If you meet the difficulty in business adsense, I ready to assist the you to get the dollar. You'D get the Secret of Google Adsense from me. Please contact me : hamba_ilahi2004@yahoo.com

2006-06-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

7 Steps Of Mega Adsense Earners
By: Andrew Daum

The Google AdSense program is like finding money in the street.

Kids in High School are making thousands of dollars a month with Adsense... Housewives, Retiree's, Mom and Pop's who've never made a dime on the Internet have created full time incomes by simply placing AdSense Ads on their web site or blog.

Then you have the "Super AdSense" earners. We have all heard of them... the Elite few who are on track to make half a million dollars a year or more promoting AdSense sites.

Do not be mistaken though... these people are not building like your Mom and Pop's do. They have systems in place that create sites for them... people who build sites for them... they have outsourced and automated many of the tedious tasks such as posting to blogs and searching for keywords.

While most people cannot emulate everything these Super AdSense earners do... many of them you can.

Here are 7 Required Steps you can implement today to copy their success.

1) Starting today... treat your AdSense business like it is a REAL business and track what you do.

Begin tracking what you are doing that works... as well as what you are doing that does not work. This will keep you from making the same mistakes over and over, and you can repeat the steps that have worked in the past. As simple as this step seems... most people do not know the reason(s) to their success or failure.

2) Utilize the latest tools and software available.

The Super AdSense earners are not any smarter than your average person. I know many people think they are... but for the most part, they are regular non techie people.

They are smarter in one respect though... they use the latest tools available to them to automate most of the tasks involved with researching and creating sites. They use the latest keyword, site creation and search engine optimization tools available. The tools they use are their secret weapons.

3) Quit chasing the Mega Dollar keywords.

You cannot compete with the search engine experts who create sites for the $80 payout keywords. You may get lucky every now and then... but in the long run, you are better off building sites for the low to mid range payout keywords. The competition is less, and your chance of success is much higher over the long term.

4) Choose broad niches and break it down.

Choose a broad subject as your main theme (lets use computers for an example).