May 22, 2011 -- Bali

DATE: Sunday, May 22, 2011

LOCATION: Bali

AUTHOR: Judi Reid

May 22 found us leaving the beautiful Tjampuhan Resort & Spa at 9:15 AM to board our trusty Trikayana Transport bus for our first discovery day in Bali.  After driving through the countryside for a while I discovered several things: one, the scenery of rice fields, villages, people walking and riding bikes, working with the rice in the various cycles of rice planting to harvesting all are beautiful. AND two, that the roads are not conducive to siting in the back seat of the bus.  At times it seemed like a roller coaster....fortunately, many shared in this fun. 

First stop Batuan, where we doned sarongs and went through both the first and second gates to visit one of the village temples, Puseh Temple, which was built in the 10th century.  We learned of the importance of incense and the offerings of fruit and flowers in the many ceremonies regularly held at the temple.



Puseh Temple





 

Next in the village of Mas we visited at the studio of the famous wood carver Made Puja.  We viewed several men working on carving pieces and toured Pujas' extensive Galleries.  Several FF members purchased items, bringing smiles to Puja and to Win, which is short for Windra, our very fine tour guide.

Continuing onward and upward, to the Bantur Volcano we next stopped at  Gunung Kawi Royal Monument, site of the Royal Tombs. I am sure that this temple, of what seemed like a thousand steps down and of necessity back up, was memorable but of personal necessity this reporter stayed top-side and did some bargaining with the many delighted shopkeepers. It’s reported, by one of the folks who made the entire trip, that there were only 600+ steps, but who’s counting!?



Gunung Kawi Royal Monument



We then continued our bus ride up into the mountains to a magnificent view point where we looked down and across to Batur Volcano and Lake. There, at Restaurant Grand Puncak Sari, with its open windows offering breeze and a beautiful panorama, we were treated to a very fine buffet luncheon.



At first, we didn't realize that there was no glass.



Completely satisfied, we headed back down the hill enjoying more scenic countryside, until we accidently happened to pass people on their way to a wedding.  The women carried very tall platters of fruit stacked decoratively on their heads.  We stopped and took pictures, with permission of course. Win, our guide, promised that he would do what he could for us to visit a wedding of his friends the following day.



The great balancing act!



Our last stop, as we headed back to the hotel was at an Agro Plantation for a tour/demonstration garden and tasting of coffee, tea, vanilla, and chocolate beans. It was very interesting and delicious too.  Another great day!!  By late afternoon we were back at the hotel for independent activities.