UbudLife 1

NYEPI - MELASTINIGHT MARKETS

RAW OR REALYOGA

COK SAWITRI ACTIONS NOT WORDS

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UbudLifeguide to ubud & beyond, bali lifestyle, people, arts, yoga, spirit, culture and cuisine

NO. 22 • MARCH - MAY 2015

Ibu Rai, as she was well known to many travelers in the 60’s, was born 1925. She sold food and her “Warung” became quite famous, even

travel books recommended it as place to find safe and good quality food for foreigners. Her son, Dewa Gede, opened a restaurant in 1986 at family land and as a tribute to his mother courage and enterprise, called it Ibu Rai Restaurant. He carries on his mother’s. Our restaurant

is specially selected for nutrition and natural flavors using the best and freshest ingredients. All are carefully presented and with

friendly service. “Hope you enjoy our food with taste of Asian Spices”.

72 Monkey Forest Street Ubud Bali | +62 361 973472restaurant@iburai.com | www.iburai.com

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MELASTI before bali’s day of silenceby jill alexander • images ayu sekar

Bali’s remarkable energy is kept alive by a constant succession of ceremonies, belief systems and daily practices, that fill the hearts and

minds of the people with that that intangible Baliness. It is a mindset and an outlook on Life that we westerners have difficulty in comprehending.One of the most beguiling and dramatic of all events on the annual calendar is Nyepi the day of Silence. It is day when everything shuts down. NO traffic, no people on the street, no jetplanes arriving from foreign lands. There is no light and no cooking! No Sex. Everything is shut down. Offically, it is a day of meditation and retreat – a time to review one’s life and purpose – to journey inward and to keep hidden from any bad spirits that may be lurking after the huge noise of the night before.

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But for many, it is a holiday – a time to relax in front of the tv, or in some cosy resort and take it easy. Never mind the spirit is there.

Two or three days before Nyepi, depending on the location, every banjar in Bali makes a pilgrimage to the sea. Known as Melasti, this ceremony is one of the most interesting spectacles to see on the island. All statues of deities are cleaned and made ready to help bring the conscious mind closer to the gods. The ceremony cleanses not just the alter and shrines of individual temples but it also serves as an act of purification for the whole world. What a shame other countries don’t follow this system to welcome the new year.

If you are prepared, you can get up really early and watch the sun rise while the first group prepares for their ritual. If you are lucky you will also witness long processions of beautifully dressed Balinese making their way to the ceremonial place. What a way to greet the new day. This is Bali at its best and most beautiful. Beaches all over Bali, from Kuta and Seminyak to Klungkung and north to Amed and Singaraja are all busy with this arresting spectacle. It is a happy and beautiful time for all.

A cleansing ceremony of great proportions, each group brings all their most precious pusaka, their barongs and huge numbers of offerings to be blessed at the sea.

Many of the beaches designated for the ceremony are busy all day as the groups are staggered to be able to include all of them. In earlier times, the processions would walk for miles to reach the sea but now they arrive in trucks – less romantic but certainly more expedient.

Trucks arrive and hundreds of white garbed Balinese assemble. Offerings are set up on the long benches erected for the purpose.

Beloved Barongs are placed carefully in their respective positions and all is made ready for the ceremony and prayer.

Then, two days later, it is time to chase the bad spirits out of Bali, the huge demonical Ogoh Ogoh statues are at the ready. Priests are ready to do their work and Bali erupts in to a cachophony of sound and visual spectacle that lasts way into the darkness of the night. Children in the villages use bamboo cannons, designed to emit as much noise as possible in their contribution of demon scaring. It is a big night for everyone and there is no escape.

This year Nyepi falls on 21st of March....

CULTURE

Cover photo by Windia

Melasti, cleansing ceremony at the beach is one of the most interesting to see on the island of Bali.

UbudLife MAG

EDITOR’S NOTE Like Us! facebook.com/ubudlifemagz

Om Swastiastu,

Welcome to our lively new edition of Ubud Life. In our endeavors to always improve our product for you, our readers, we are welcoming some new writers. Read and enjoy and let us know what you think. We always welcome letters and will be happy to publish the best ones.

In this issue we look at lots of health issues. We explore some of Ubud’s yoga options, as well as food, both raw and cooked. And we visit some night markets which once could be visited right by the Ubud Market. Times have changed and now we need to go further afield. Find out more in the article.

During this period, Bali’s silent day, Nyepi will be upon us. I think some people can barely believe that a whole island can just shut down! But believe me, its true. Years ago, when the airport was still open on Nyepi, I was driven to the airport in the hotel car. It was truly as if everyone had left the island. There was nothing to be seen. Not a car, not a soul was out on the street and not even a wisp of smoke (cooking fires are also banned). Any bad spirits hanging out on that day would have just taken off to a busier island! It was nothing short of miraculous.

Then the fabulous Bali Spirit Festival will be bringing great music acts and yoginis from around the world. It is truly four days of celebration of the spirit and one of the best events on Bali’s ever expanding calendar.

So with a fresh new year under way – Bali style – we can just imagine that things will continue to get better. May our consciousness continue to expand and our compassion grow to include animals and children. Kindness is the way.

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om

THE EDITOR

editorubudlife-gsb team

creative graphic designerdedito ssn.

photographeri gusti ketut windia

sales and marketingketut muliartani

financeyukmang susilawati

distributionubudlife-gsb team

publisherGSB (gemini studio bali)jalan gunung tangkuban perahu III/4, denpasar barat - bali 80361p: 0361 8495479, 0361 8447982e: sales@geministudio-bali.comw: www.ubudlife.com

directorputu santosa

views expressed are not necessarily those of the editor’s and publisher’s. all material copyright ©2010 (gsb) gemini studio bali. the publisher will not be held responsible for copyright infringerment on images supplied by advertiser and, or contributors.

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contents

36 YOGA FOR LIFE MAKE IT BETTER

8 NYEPI - MELASTI

72 GIANYAR NIGHT MARKET 78

CANDIDASAA PLACE OF ROMANCE

30 RAW OR REAL FOOD

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Keratin Treatments at FreshHumidity doing a number on those tresses? If so, Fresh Spa can sort you out with one of their fab keratin treatments that reduce frizz by up to 95 per cent and make hair shinier, more manageable, and tangle free. Their Western trained stylists use Alfaparf, a formaldehyde-free Italian product that is easy on the locks, and just one treatment can relax curls and waves for up to three months with proper care.

Appointments are highly recommended, as business is already booming at this stylish salon.

Jalan Dewi Sita, between Jalan Monkey Forest and Jalan Gootama, T: 0361 8493677

happenings around ubud

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BambookuFrom Seminyak, the delightful Bambooku has moved to open a second shop in Ubud. Their products, are all made from bamboo – a renewable resource which is easily grown in tropical countries. After processing, it becomes a soft, flexible, and hard wearing fabric, that also can translate into bedding, towels as well as fashionable items and luxury linens. Bambooku produces a wide range of items and they all enjoy the soft, velvety texture of a bamboo fabric. For more information, please check their website or go to their gorgeous shop in Ubud.

Bambooku - Takesumi Shop Ubud:32 Jalan Hanoman Ubud,T: (+62) 361 7807836E: info@bambooku.com

Bambooku - Kerobokan:90 Jalan Merthanadi Kerobokan, Kuta

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Theta Healing at TaksuThe Theta Healing technique is designed to make you feel better. It can release old emotional bonds and dissolve negative beliefs with ease. The best thing is that it can free you from whatever

holds you back and removes blocks to achieving your highest potential. People may live more freely and positively.

Great results can be obtained, and even after just one session with Erika Devi at Ubud’s Taksu Spa, I felt much fitter and somehow happier with myself. Swedish Erika trained in the UK and some in Australia and when you meet her, you have instant confidence as she is so clear and brimming with light.

You can meet Erika at Taksu Spa and even if you are not ready for individual sessions, you could try joining one of her workshops whichare also great.

Erika Devi Taksu Spa, off Jalan Hanoman, Ubud.

Arts and TapasHalf Brazilian and half Paraguayan, artist Cleise Vidal is best known for her fun and funky illustrations that feature intricate black and white patterns and line work, stylized animals and quirky female figures interspersed with vibrant blocks of colour. The Bali-based artist has recently unveiled her latest collection at Ubud’s favourite tapas joint, La Xurreria on Monkey Forest Road, where her framed pieces cover an entire wall in the dining room. The drawings will be available for viewing and sale for the entire month of March.

Jalan Monkey Forest beside the Circle K

Save Bali’s Heritage Dog It is no secret that rabies is a serious problem on Bali, however the government has taken a rather severe stance on the issue and has called for mass dog cullings in cities and towns across the island. In addition, demand for dog meat is rising, which means even more animals are slaughtered on a daily basis. To protect Bali’s heritage dogs from cruelty, abuse, consumption, and unnecessary death, BAWA has created a petition that they will present to Governor Made Mangku Pastika. You can voice your opposition to the mass killing of Bali dogs by signing the

online petition at http://bawabali.com/campaigns/stop-slaughter-save-balis-heritage-dog/

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New “Spirit Night by Candelight”

CD released by Ubud Sound HealerWatch out for the new CD Spirit Night by Candlelight by Ubud-based sound healer and leader of the acclaimed Bali Sound Healers Collective, Shervin Boloorian. Even if you can’t

come to one of his events at Taksu, or the Yoga Barn, you can buy the CD and enjoy it wherever you are. Ex Iranian Refugee, with a long life story, Shervin sings sacred songs in multiple languages, including his native Persian. He is also a practicing certified sound and color therapist in Ubud.

Spirit Night by Candlelight is an intimate collection of Shervin’s original compositions which bridge sacred world music traditions. While the recorded music is original, each cut offers a familiar mantra (sometimes two) from ancient spiritual traditions and presents them in a fresh way that would surprise (or even mystify) a seasoned enthusiast.

The CD is recorded in Bali with support from guest musicians.Tibetan, Persian-Sufi, and Yogic-Sanskrit languages among others are represented on the album.

Visit www.soundhealingbali.com

Hujan LocaleWith the incredible success of Sarong in the south, Chef Will Meyrick has decided to branch out to our neck of the woods with his latest venture Hujan Locale. The philosophy here is to use ‘found and

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foraged’ ingredients sourced from local farmers and the restaurant’s own garden, and the dishes are a mix of Asian recipes with slight Western influences.

The two-storey space has a real old world charm with recycled wood, rattan chairs, and vintage lighting, and it is located away from the hustle and bustle on Jalan Sri Wedari.

www.hujanlocale.com

The 8th annual BaliSpirit Festival

a Global Celebration of Yoga, Dance & Music

March 31 until April 5, 2015

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WHO’S WHO

Cok SawitriThe traditional role of women in Balinese society

often sees the fairer gender taking second place to their male counter parts. There are however, many dynamic female characters who’s contribution to their society speaks louder than words.

One of these is Cok Sawitri, a gifted lady whos’ curiosity, sensitivity and determination have helped consolidate her as one of Bali’s leading intellectuals. The Balinese term Cok, is an abbreviation of Cokorda, pronounced ‘chock’. Cokorda is the title granted to the highest members of the Balinese aristocracy.

“My responsibility to my culture and my religion comes from within, not from pressures from the community,” Cok Sawitri confidently states. “I have strong opinions and am often perceived as being arrogant. Yet I believe that living in a democracy allows for equality and freedom of thought.” A mature and responsible fusion between tradition and modernity are the foundations for Cok Sawitri’s personal philosophy.

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“I don’t like that the Balinese are only seen as exotic. Westerners too often misunderstand the Balinese because they are often quiet in expressing their thoughts, or because they are not endowed with the logical and rational mind.” “However,” she adds. “The Balinese are intelligent and highly sensitive people. We have a different style and attitude, and code of ethics for public behaviour. Often we do not communicate though words, yet via humour, symbols, stories, art, dance and performance.”

A committed, and harsh critic of foreigners who live in Bali, Cok Sawitri doesn’t always agree with western researchers findings about Bali and ill informed writers who choose to maintain some of the exotic, tourism rhetoric. These writers, and perhaps and I am guilty of this too, succumb too easily to popular ‘modern myths’ without the desire to investigate on deeper levels. Slowly over time the ‘facts’ become modified and the results are spiels far from the truth.

Born in 1968 in Karangasem, East Bali, in the village of Sidemen, one of the most picturesque locations in Bali, Cok Sawitri has been producing works of art since elementary school. Journalist, novelist, poet, environmentalist, activist, dancer and choreographer, teaching both traditional and modern Balinese dance, painter, with countless collaborative works through most genres of her creative expressions, she is active in various women and humanity organizations, as well as theatrical groups in Bali.

Gender politics is also one of her committed interests.

“I love to learn and I always strive to retain a child like zest for this, while endeavouring to remain humble too.” For four years Cok Sawitri studied local natural medicines, not to become a doctor though, yet purely because she wanted to know. “I believe everyone one

of us is a teacher, we are each gifted with beauty and intelligence. What is important is the strength and creativity of a free and enquiring mind.”

Cok Sawitri’s face radiates with joy while she talks about the most influential character in her life; her mother. “My mother is a strong character. During my youth she had the courage to set me free and this inspired me to be brave. She truly allowed me to be me. Serve everyone well, be humble, yet have pride in what you do, my mother would say. She taught me through her own example.”

“Gifted with a logical and rational mind that never succumbs to the mysterious and mythical worlds that Bali is renown for, my mother’s honest and worldly approach to life is wonderful, while her sense of humour is both endearing and a driving force in her life.”

The famous Balinese dance the Calon Arang is the source of one of Cok Sawitri’s most enduring passions. One that has led her on an unequaled, in depth research and analysis of its origins that culminated in 2007 with the book The Widow of Jirah, originally published in Bahasa Indonesia, and since 2014 has been available in an English translation. She had previously written 4 theatrical sequels based on the legend each with different interpretations. Her mission into the research began as a rite for self-purification in the Balinese/Javanese tradition known as ruwatan. The Widow of Jirah, which streamlines and transforms the intricacy of the classical legend into beautiful poetic prose, rich in nature’s wisdoms and hidden moral lessons completed the sequels and closes over 20 years of her work on the Calon Arang.

Three other novels written by Cok Sawitri have been nominated for Khatulistiwa Literary Award, for Indonesia’s best fiction. In 2015 she will release her next novel, ‘Sitayana’,

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Sita’s Journey. Sita is the central female character of the Hindu epic Ramayana and consort of the God Rama.

As a social activist Cok Sawitri’s role is often on the frontline as witnessed during the ‘Tolak Reklamasi’ demonstration rallies against a mega development threatening the natural environment of South Bali. The planned project, in which nearly 800 hectares of sensitive estuary in Benoa bay will be transform into tourism developments has polarized the island, dividing the Balinese into opposing sides in what has become perhaps the decade’s most controversial issue.

While considered an expert on the Balinese culture she too is more than acquainted with the many facets of Balinese life. “Karangasem produces the finest quality arak, and while

this excellent, yet potent liquor at times may be maligned because some choose to over indulge, its every process from the sourcing of ingredients, to its brewing and ritual drinking is considered sacred to the Balinese.”

As well as being a role model for young Balinese women she is modest too. “I wish for no accolades, I hope that people appreciate my work. If you read my novels, poetry or short stories, the messages are there.”

People communicate in an array of creative and wonderful expressions, yet the most essential, according to Cok Sawitri, is via language of the heart. Asked if she had any words she wished to share with the younger generations of Balinese, her retort was stern, yet wise, “Influence others through your actions not words.”...

Ibu RaiBar & Restaurant on Monkey Forestby ayu sekar

For years I have passed by Ibu Rai restaurant but I had never tried it. I always thought huh! Tourist

restaurant – I won’t bother because as we know the food quality on many tourists restaurants is pretty mediocre. Then just recently, I have heard the odd mention of the food there and thought – hmm per-haps it is worth a shot.

So recently, Ubud Life went to try and see what it was all about. This restaurant comes with a long history. It started as a humble food stall next to the Ubud Palace in the early 70’s when the very beautiful Ibu Rai decided to start an eatery where tourists could eat cheaply and well without danger of experiencing a dose of “Bali Belly”. She thrived and prospered and became something of an institution. Generations vis-ited. Young hippie travellers returned years later with their own families. It moved to its present location in Jalan Monkey Forest and now her grandson, the imposing Dewa Gede Putrawan has taken over the reins. The menu has expanded as has the restaurant

and whether you come for a cocktail for lunch or dinner, there is always something to please.

According to a writer for the Guardian, Ibu Rai is one of Bali’s top ten restaurants – fair praise indeed.

Putrawan showered us with delicious dishes. He takes great pride in their ever changing menu and is always looking for exciting new dishes to thrill his clientele. First up was a turmeric dessert, which he wanted us to try. Chocolate covered turmeric cream accom-panied by a turmeric ice cream proved to be interesting, unique and delicious. We then tried several starters and then they brought out imported duck breast cooked with coriander seeds and persimmon juice. It was delicious and the taste linger so that I want to try it again. Accompanied by mushroom ra-violi, I found that while the ravioli were good, mashed potato would have done a better job. The potato makes a bland accompaniement to the delicious duck and it soaks up the juices. A memorable dish.

Then they brought out a seafood plate with luscious big prawns, an excellent white fish, potato cakes and other goodies - a symphony of flavours. The food is good and I for one can’t wait to try it again.

Gede was keen for us to try the Chocolate Lava Cake but there was simply no space. I will definitely be going back soon to try!

As there are many artists in the family, the garden restaurant at the back is a gallery space as well as a relaxing lounge area. You can feast your eyes as well as your taste buds.

Ibu Rai Bar & Restaurant - Jalan Monkey Forest 72, T: 0361 973 472, www.iburai.com

UBUD EATING

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To cook or not to cook-that is the question by iselin

Is it better to eat a nice juicy steak dripping with a red wine gravy and some divine

buttery mashed potatoes, or a lamb curry redolent with spices or is raw healthier? Here Iselin looks at the differences

“Living bodies need living food to thrive”, says raw food chef and enthusiast Ben Richards behind the raw food

restaurant Seeds of life. Raw fo od has been on an up and coming ride the past decade.

Researching on raw food started early in the 20th century, but it wasn´t

until the 80´s that raw foodism started to blossom. It has

become especially popular among people looking for a holistic approach to a healthy lifestyle. “Living foods got my attention when I understood that imbalances in the body arises from the spirit. There

are many physical health benefits like clearer eyes,

increased hair quality, super soft skin and stronger finger nails, but

ultimately living foods are about life force and how this impacts not only

your physical body but also your internal well-being”, says Ben.

RAW FOOD

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Raw food was introduced as a diet consisting of uncooked and unprocessed food. It´s a plant based diet that has not been heated over 48 degrees Celsius, often combined with a vegan or vegetarian diet. The life force and the living enzymes of the food is said to be lost through heating.

”In our culture sickness has become an accepted part of reality, and it used to be for me too. I was not expecting to completely eradicate illness from my life just by eliminating dairy products and eating raw plant food, but that was the effect. I now know what radiant health feels like, and I am surprised it is so easy to attain.“ This is the personal experience of raw chef Shanti Allèn, one of the brains behind Bali´s first 100% raw vegan cafe & juice bar Alchemy.

There is another important aspect of the raw food diet; the awareness of the ethics of the modern food industry. “There are so many problems with the conventional food system, and it keeps getting worse. Genetic manipula-tion, MSG, animal cruelty, pesticides, herbicides and the list goes on. In processed food it´s hard to know what you´re really eating, and how much of the nutrition that has been lost in the process. With organic raw plant food you know it´s full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The many enzymes in uncooked foods provide energy and radically improve health. Eating food in its natural state, the way it was created, unprocessed, made sense both for my personal well-being, and also for the environment, and that´s why I decided to go for it”, says Shanti.

According to raw food enthusiasts the ben-efit of going raw is to keep the living enzymes intact to bring new energy and life force into your body, which will give you a visible effect both physically and mentally. Than there´s also the importance of knowing what´s actually in your food and where it comes from, which

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is harder to know from processed food. This is also important in the Ayurvedic tradition, which has another approach to living food; cooking is easier for the digestive system, and can be beneficial in its own way. The Ayurvedic tradition also talks about energetic vibrations, the qi or the prana. The life force surrounding everything on earth, including food. As with raw foodisme, Ayurvedics believe that the life force can be lost from the food, however not through cooking but when it´s stored or frozen. It needs to be fresh. The Ayurvedic tradition is based on the fact that human beings can be related to 3 different body-types: Vata, Pitta and Kapha, that there are different food and taste benefitting different bodies, including cooked food.

“We can use a raw diet for a cleanse. This is not to say all raw food, but the lighter ingre-dients like salad, fruit and juices. We also use cooked food such as soup and kitchari as a cleanse. It all depends on the energy you have in your body. We are made of energy, food is energy, and we need to find the right balance for ourselves”, explains Dr. Sujatha, Ayurvedic doctor at Amrtasiddhi, the Ayurveda & Yoga Health Centre in Ubud.

Are we killing the life force with cooking? We might be, if we overcook it, or if we cook it and freeze it, and we might lose important enzymes in the heating process. Maybe we aren´t. As all great questions there are no clear answer, but there´s common ground from peo-ple that are passionate about food and prana, qi, life force, whatever name it´s been given. Even though there are differences when it comes to preparing food, everybody agrees on the life force of food, and how it´s important to acknowledge this and be aware of the power of food. Find out what your own body needs, and how you can use food also for internal well-being. Know the food you consume, and where it comes from....

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posture 4) Pranayama – rhythmic control of the breath 5) Pratyahara – withdrawl and emancipation of the mind from the domination of the sense and exterior objects 6) Dharana – concentration 7) Dhyana – meditation and 8) Samadhi – a state of super-consciousness. So even though the western world of today put more emphasise on no 3, the asanas, as B.K.S. Iyengar puts it, “without the backing of yama and niyama is mere acrobatics.” The asanas, the physical postures, is one of steps to prepare and strengthen the body to be able to sit comfortably in meditation for a longer period of time. Each of the postures plays a specific part towards this goal and many of them have name after different sages, and there are myths and stories of how they came to.

Yoga – the word is derived from the Sanskrit root ”yuj” which means to bind, join

attach or yoke. It also means union or communion, union of the physical body, the mind and the spirit. Where it all started could be a matter of debate, though most studies point to the Indus Valley and pre-Vedic in north-eastern India around 2600-1900BCE. Yoga is one of the six orthodox systems of Indian philosophy and it was collated, co-ordinated and systematised by Patanjali in his classical work, the Yoga Sutras, predated by the Upanishads. Patanjali lists the eight limbs of yoga where the means are as important as the end goal in view. These are 1) Yama – universal moral commandments 2) Niyama – self purification by discipline 3) Asana –

YOGA FOR LIFE

by carin carbonnier images yogas companies courtesy

MAKE IT BETTER

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Siam Sally on Jalan Pengosekan. The space is big and lush and includes a restaurant, an Ayurvedic healing place, a yoga shop and a guesthouse, and little hideaway bales where you can sip on a coconut in between classes.

Capacity: 5 studios, more than 90 classes a week

Prices IDR: Drop in 120.000, discounts if you buy a class card with 3, 5, 10 or 20 classes. One month unlimited is 2.500.000

Website: www.theyogabarn.com

“As a yoga teacher I really love these myths and backgrounds of the asanas, and creating a class becomes like writing a song. You play with the postures, breath and the quality of energy. It is the breath linked with movement that truly offers the benefits of yoga practice, to connect with ones body and feel the energy and be able to bring the benefits of yoga into daily life. If you can breath through a series of challenging asanas, imagine what you can breathe through in your everyday life.”

Yoga practise in ubudThere are a lot places in Ubud to practice all kinds of yoga. If you want to get sweaty in a Vinyasa flow class, on the dance floor of Ecstatic dance or wind down in a Restorative class, during a sound healing workshop it is all here. All of the studios offer classes and/or special discounts to people holding Kitas passes and to locals....

The Yoga BarnThe Yoga Barn is the biggest yoga studio in Ubud and it has grown a lot since the start in 2007. Offering a wide range of yoga classes, dance, sound healing,

meditation and movie nights, the Yoga Barn is often on the “to-do lists” of visitors to Ubud and there is something for everyone. Teachers from all over the world come together to lead classes, teacher trainings and different retreats. There is also a group of in-house practioners that offer everything from Thai massage to CranioSacral to healing musical transformations and Ayurvedic therapies. Hidden away from the traffic, it is just behind

Radiantly AliveJust off the main road, opposite Bali Buda, is the entrance to Radiantly Alive. The friendly staff at reception greets you and then the studio opens up

in several levels. The variety of teachers offer a lot of different classes and workshops, like the signature class of Radiantly Alive Vinyasa and also fly high yoga where the perspective and conventional thoughts of yoga asanas shifts while doing poses hanging from a belt that is attached to the ceiling – it must be experienced. The studio also offers different healing options, private yoga sessions and teacher trainings. There is a store within the studio and a café in the making.

Capacity: 3 studios, more than 45 classes a week

Prices: Drop in 140.000, discounts in a vast range of unlimited cards from 1 day up to 6 months.

Website: www.radiantlyalive.com

YOGA IN UBUD

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Intuitive FlowSet in the rice fields in Penestanan, Intuitive flow offers one of the most spectacular views from the yoga studio. On clear days you can see

the volcanoes and a natural breeze blows through the room while you go through a Pranala yoga class. Yoga pranala being the signature of the studio and Linda, the founder, it is a combination of asana, pranayama, meditation, mudra pranala and yoga nidra. The studio, in addition to a wide range of classes with different teachers, also offers workshops, events and teacher trainings. Intuitive flow is well worth the trip away from the traffic and main streets of Ubud. There are plenty of cafes

around to serve you your green juice or raw food snack after the class.

Capacity: 1 studio, more than 25 classes a week

Prices: Drop in 120.000, discounts on multi-class cards of 5, 10 or 15 classes.

Website: www.intuitiveflow.com

words • image by ayu sekar

The ancient alchemy of colouring cloth with plant dyes is ... well... a dying art.   Locating and collecting the roots, bark,

leaves and seeds from specific plants and then cleaning, drying and combining them is very time consuming and not something your average  Indonesian girl dreams of doing.  These days she’d rather be working in a spa, thank you very much.

But for those of us fascinated by rapidly disappearing traditional dying techniques, there’s an easy and pleasant way to learn about them.   I recently took a half-day traditional dye workshop which renewed my respect and interest in this millennia-old art. The workshop is a snapshot of Indonesia’s rich and complex heritage of dying and batik.

LIVING COLORibu kat • imagse by? ??

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The ancient alchemy of colouring cloth with plant dyes is ... well... a dying art.  Locating and collecting the roots, bark, leaves and seeds from specific plants and then cleaning, drying and combining them is very time consuming and not something your average  Indonesian girl dreams of doing.  These days she’d rather be working in a spa, thank you very much.

But for those of us fascinated by rapidly disappearing traditional dying techniques, there’s an easy and pleasant way to learn about them.  I recently took a half-day traditional dye workshop which renewed my respect and interest in this millennia-old art. The workshop is a snapshot of Indonesia’s rich and complex heritage of dying and batik.

Threads of Life in Ubud with its sister organisation Bebali Foundation is dedicated to keeping alive traditional dying and weaving techniques in Indonesia.  These are rapidly disappearing everywhere as the forests where dye plants grow are cut down and populations migrate to urban areas.

 Years of research by the Foundation, with support from Kew Gardens in England, has collected a vast database of dye plants in Indonesia. The Bebali Foundation recently opened a dye garden and studio in Petulu, just 10 minutes north of Ubud, where visitors can see the plants, watch the traditional dye extraction techniques and create their own batiks using these dyes. It’s a tranquil vortex of dyecrafting, surrounded by indigo bushes and rice fields.

Master dyers I Made Maduarta (Pung), Komang Sujata and I Wayan Sukadana (Frog) have been studying traditional techniques for over a decade and their knowledge of the plants and complex chemistry involved is encyclopaedic for those who are interested in the process.  If you’d rather just get straight to work on your own batik, that’s fine too.

Blue dominates the palette.  The blue colour is from indigo, the plant whose modest leaves produce the richest of hues. In some communities, the recipes for indigo dye are sacred and secret. As with all plant dyes, the knowledge of which colours can be coaxed from which plant parts was passed on orally through hundreds of generations. And it’s not just about the colour; it’s complicated.  Red dyes need to be applied with very specific mordants to help the dye adhere permanently to the fibres.  These mordants might be roots, leaves, nuts or bark. The Foundation gathers them from sustainable sources in Flores, Papua, Timor and other islands to be prepared and packaged at the studio.

India was a major producer and international exporter of indigo in ancient times, so the plant may have come to Indonesia through early Indian traders. The colour was integrated into textiles as they evolved across the archipelago. The indigo

UbudLife 45

TO DYE FOR

leaves are best picked once the rains begin and the fruits are still young.  Leaves are fermented in alkaline water for 24 hours, then removed. The water is mixed with lime and agitated to precipitate the colour which is collected as a paste at the bottom of the vessel. It takes five kg of leaves and two days to produce 200 grams of this rich, blue paste. Maybe that’s why a pair of natural indigo dyed jeans can set you back $850.

Red dye is made using shavings of the very hard morinda root. A dense black is achieved by immersing the cloth in mineral-rich mud holes in Timor.  Yellow is more challenging, as the best colour is from the heartwood of a tree that takes 20 years to mature and is thus not sustainable, although jackfruit, when properly prepared, also produces a colourfast yellow.  But for the workshop, visitors work with indigo.

When visitors are ready to make their own batik, they move to slanted tables where squares of cotton are pinned in readiness.  This is where the true depth of batik’s cultural and artistic heritage become apparent.  The pattern is drawn on the cloth using a canting, which delivers a delicate stream of wax-based resist.  Artists in Java still create incredibly complex, tiny motifs and

multiple colours on 2.5 m sarongs, a process that can take months of highly skilled work.  

Faced with just one small square of cloth and a single dye colour, the task still seems daunting.  It takes concentration to create the resist pattern without splashing the wax. The cloth makes several trips to the indigo bath and is dried with a hairdryer to hurry the process along in order to get the desired depth of blue in a few hours. When making traditional weavings the fibres are left in the indigo baths for extended periods of time, dried in the sun and re-immersed to obtain a deep saturation of colour, a process which can take months. (The Threads of Life Gallery on Jalan Kajeng has excellent exhibits of traditional dying and weaving methods.)

At the end of the class there’s a sense of real achievement, and a deeper understanding of just how much time, artistry and complexity is reflected in creating a fine batik.

The workshop has space for up to six students at a time and the cost of Rp 350,000 per student includes transport to and from Ubud and all materials.  A delicious vegetarian lunch is available on request.  To book a class, contact Threads of Life Gallery 361-972187 or tac@threadsoflife.com...

48 UbudLife

What’s on the horizon Ron?

“The future is exciting!” Is his lightning response. Being well aware of Ron’s persona, I am immediately taken with his zest.

Let me describe Ron Seivertson so you can imagine him in your minds eye. Intelligent and witty, dynamic and fascinating, Seivertson is a highly artistic being - the type of wild and wonderful expat character that Ubud is renowned for. Not only is he a talented amateur singer, song writer and guitarist, but his driving passion in life is for one of the most captivating creative expressions you are likely to witness - the art of blowing and sculpting hot glass. Ron Seivertson is the founder and proprietor of one of Bali’s most interesting centres - Horizon Glassworks.

Being a witness to Seivertson at work and his energy and precision, while enduring enormous heat and rigorous physical activity, is enthralling and will be permanently encoded upon your mind. One of the first questions that springs forth as he magically gathers, spins, shapes and forges molten glass into extraordinary forms right before your eyes is, how on earth does he do that? The answer is quite simple, dedication and skill, along with endless hours of practice.

“I have recently completed plans for a large new workshop facility,” Seivertson says. “It includes 4 studios at the back of the current horizon property, one with a warm glass kiln, another a studio for hot cast glass, a mixed media studio and a bronze casting foundry; the first of its kind in Bali.” My imagination went into overdrive as I sensed the breadth of this concept.

“These are all learning studios, as well as this being a viable business venture. Of course the bronze foundry will be a godsend for local and foreign sculptors helping to realize the potential of traditional and contemporary sculpture in Bali.”

Born 1961 in Sacramento, California, USA, Seivertson had been working out of the States, yet with a house here in Bali, decided to relocate the studio to Ubud and Horizon Glassworks was born some 9 years ago. The original location was 5 kilometres north of the current multi story showroom and studio complex. It opened in January 2014, and is located on Jalan Raya Negari, 15 minutes south from Ubud.

richard horstman • images jill alexander

RON SEIVERTSON

PERSONALITY

UbudLife 49

“The market for our products is global, along with the market for education. We have teachers from all over the world who wish to come here and work and many people are interested in this new venture. Horizon is open to the public and people walk straight in off the street and witness the world of glass making. Visitors often watch mesmerized, and absolutely love the experience,” he says. “We have always had workshops available to the public.”

The new Horizon complex features a 3 storey, 1000 square meter display area and a hot shop of 360 square meters with a variety of kilns and production facilities. The new master plan includes a large multi purpose function room on the lower level and a seventy seat bistro.

Unbeknownst to Seivertson when he was initially captured by the hot glass bug, he discovered that his family has a history of glass making in Northern Europe reaching back over two centuries. He vividly recalled to me the day when, travelling through the mid USA, as a retired construction worker, he wandered into a hot glass workshop and experienced an enormous and unique energy exchange. The guy working the glass then looked him straight in the eye and said, “Hey bro, glass is for you!”

“This was the most profound experience of my life.” he said. Immediately he knew he needed to

50 UbudLife

I believe we each have a calling, an essence that is deeply personal and draws us to our own creative passions.”

Trained at the world-recognised centre for hot glass, Pilchuck Glass School in Washington State, Seivertson’s talents were firmly set and along with a host of other glass masters, he has strived to push this art form to new creative limits at Horizon. Such a cutting edge project was the Glass Age Series created in two six week sessions in 2009-10 by a team of international artists. Requiring an enormous budget, this 135 piece collection, featured Java Man, an anatomically accurate pre-Neolithic Homo erectus skeleton, plus full-sized spears, a saber-toothed tiger skull, and numerous other historical impressionistic artifacts.

This is a world class project, one of the most advanced and technically challenging ever undertaken. It required enormous skill, passion and ability, along with the dedication and relentless trial and error to produce unique pieces that would justifiably be at home in any international museum. These works are luminous and pulsating with life.

“My creative process is highly intuitive, while often I sense there is a metaphysical relationship at play. Working with hot glass talks to my heart and soul.”

“Now,” Seivertson says. “I feel as if I am now experiencing a second calling. The business is unsustainable so we need to diversify and after a decade of experience, and considering the developmental stage of my career, its time to give my knowledge away and to teach others the skills. At Horizon we wish to be part of the continuum and see a new generation carry on the art.”

“There is a great need to provide a facility to teach this art as some trades are dying out. If we succeed in bringing people here from Asia, a region without a glass making history, this will be a boon. We are networking with institutes throughout Indonesia and many are already coming to study our work, all without too much effort on our behalf.”

The future may be both exciting and daunting for some, yet for Ron Seivertson the future cannot come too soon.

Horizon Glassworks offers beginner to advanced glass blowing instruction courses, from 2.5 hour lessons to month-long artist in residence programs for glass art professionals....

Horizon Glassworks, Jalan Raya Negari

(0361) 7804014

www.HorizonGlassworks.com

UbudLife 51

BALIFREEMAP 9TH EDITION MAR - MAY 2015

From Denpasar, we reach across the island - everywhere in bali! make your advertising dollar go further and be

seen on our new big Bali Map!

For further information and advertising bookings: PERSADA MEDIA PUBLISHING - BALIP: [0361] 8447982 • M: 081139 4755

E: putu@persadamediapublishing.com

ubud cultural dance performanceslegong of mahabrata ubud palace-open stage 7.30 pmkecak fire & trance dance padang tegal kaja-open stage 7.00 pmwayang kulit [shadow puppet] ubud main road-oka kartini 8.00 pmlegong dance arma-open stage 7.30 pmjanger dance ubud water palace-open stage 7.30 pmjegog [bamboo gamelan] bentuyung village 7.00 pmkecak fire & trance dance batu karu temple-open stage 7.30 pm

legong dances ubud palace-open stage 7.30 pmbarong & keris dance wantilan padang tegal kelod 7.00 pmkecak ramayana & fire dance pura dalem ubud-open stage 7.30 pmlegong telek arma-open stage 7.30 pmwomen performance bale banjar ubud kelod 7.30 pm

ramayana ballet ubud palace-open stage 7.30 pmkecak fire & trance dance jaba pura taman sari-padang tegal kelod 7.30 pmwayang kulit [shadow puppet] kertha accommodation-monkey forest st 8.00 pmlegong dance pura dalem ubud-open stage 7.30 pmtrance culture bale banjar ubud kelod 7.30 pm

legong & barong dance ubud palace-open stage 7.30 pmmask dance [topeng jimat] arma-open stage 7.00 pmwayang kulit [shadow puppet] ubud main road-oka kartini 8.00 pmlegong dance yamasari stage-peliatan open stage 7.30 pmkecak fire & trance dance padang tegal kaja-open stage 7.00 pmjegog [bamboo gamelan] pura dalem ubud-open stage 7.00 pm

kecak [monkey chant dance] puri agung peliatan 7.30 pmlegong dance jaba pura desa kutuh 7.30 pmthe barong & keris dance pura dalem ubud-open stage 7.30 pmkecak fire & trance dance pura taman sari-padang tegal kelod 7.30 pmwayang wong dance bale banjar ubud kelod 7.30 pmwayang kulit [shadow puppet] pondok bambu-monkey forest st 7.30 pm

barong dance ubud palace-open stage 7.30 pmlegong dance balerung stage peliatan 7.30 pmkecak and fire dance pura padang kertha-padang tegal kelod 7.00 pmwayang kulit [shadow puppet] ubud main road-oka kartini 8.00 pmjegog [bamboo gamelan] bentuyung village 7.00 pmbarong & keris dance arma-open stage 5.30 pm

legong dance ubud palace-open stage 7.30 pmlegong dance ubud water palace 7.30 pmfrog dance bale banjar ubud kelod 7.00 pmlegong dance pura dalem ubud-open stage 7.30 pmkecak fire & trance dance pura dalem taman kaja-open stage 7.30 pmwayang wong arma-open stage 7.00 pm

every 1st and 15th: gambuh dance pura desa batuan-open stage 7.00 pm

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54 UbudLife

pura protocolTips for how to visit one of Bali’s fabulous temples

As visitors to Bali we like to know how to visit a temple graciously. Here are a few guidelines to help make a visit more enjoyable. Enjoy!

The Balinese are quite open and generally welcome visitors. You can enter most temples freely. Wear a sash around the waist and preferably a sarong. Big temples can hire a sarong at the front gate but it is nice to have your own. You can buy a sash and sarong at Ubud market or Sukawati where the choice is limitless.

When there is a ceremony on, the Balinese believe the gods have descended to the temple for the duration. All prayer and dance is performed for the benefit of the gods rather than the tourists. Be respectful. Women who are menstruating must wait outside.

Priests (Pedanda) are well respected and the most important person at the ceremony. They occupy the highest position. Show respect and don’t try to climb on scaffolding or steps higher than the officiating priest to get a better view or photo.

If you visit a holy spring like Pura Tirtha Empul and decide to try bathing, keep your clothes on and leave the shampoo behind. It is not a bath, but an immersion in holy water, for a spiritual cleansing.

Expect to pay a small donation before entering a temple. These donations are put to good use, and help with the upkeep of the grounds and the temple itself....

TIPS

TO WELCOME WHAT COMES INby luciana stiguelboim • image ayu sekar

I’m stuck on old patterns, on the ideal- ized memories of a story that I resist to let die. I want to learn, once and for all, to turn around and give a chance to what lives on the other side.

While taking an early walk by the beach, I’m suddenly struck by a de-structuring impulse, and I intend to fol- low it: today I want to watch the sunset backwards. I mean, watch the side from where the darkness comes in.

It may sound omi- nous, but I think it’s just the fear of she who is desperately holding on to the old and familiar. From this posture, the new is a dark night that she, as a wounded child, is fright- ened of accepting.

I’ve spent my whole life saying goodbye to the sun, watching it sink into horizons while I revel in nostalgia of an ending that really hurts even though the next day always proves it false. It’s an attitude that seems overly familiar to me… A ritual whose identically obsessive repetition I consider, all of a sudden, to be as ri-diculous as it would be to watch the sunrise with my eyes fixed on the corner through which the night slips away.

It’s time to be strong and dare to turn my back on the familiar glow, to focus my attention on the beauty left for me by its departure. To give myself to the vertigo of abdicating my usual post. To open myself to recognizing that the sunset (as the sunrise) occupies the whole sky. After all, isn’t it much more sensible and polite to welcome the in-coming rather than to hold on to what must, naturally and inevitably, leave?

Welcome the lilac that will grow blue, oblivious to those who ignore it out of custom or convention. It might me less spectacular but, honestly, at this stage I prefer to be acquainted with the serene emotion brought by that which comes to change the lives of those who risk their identities for the joy of receiving it.

On the other side, rebirth awaits me. I will admire the sun when it comes in, when it reap-pears with a new face, worthy protagonist of my present....www.lucianasiguelboim.com

Anak Agung Lingsir, the old prince of Abian Gombal, was now back outside, sitting cross - legged on the verandah of his old pesaren pavilion. He was

lost in thoughts. He had had a near call with death, but now, with the fever gone and having lost a few pounds, he could once again run the affairs of his state. There had been a big exorcism to cleanse the grubug (deadly epidemic) from the land, and send back the evil spirits to where they belonged. Again on track, the village heads (mekel) were bringing him his due share of the crops, and the patihs (ministers) patrolling the border of the land.

But A.A. Lingsir often recalled the hand, which had kneaded his head in the worst of his throes, when all the priests had failed, despite their magical concoctions and prayers. He was well aware that he owed his life to Pan Oblong, the balian (witch doctor) from Dauh Pangkung, and thus he had summoned him to the palace.

He was thus still sitting, slowly massaging the scraggy limbs of his champion cock, when he saw a man approaching with one of the patihs, his hands clasped and bowing repeatedly. It was, as expected Nang Oblong, the balian. The old man glanced at his lord and then, bowing again, sat on the lower steps, his hands clasped, waiting in awe.

“Kene, Blong,” started Anak Agung Lingsir, stopping a while to spit out the tobacco he had kept under his tongue,”you are old and poor, with seven sons to feed. But it is through your help that the Batara (god) has shown mercy on me. I thus want your family to be bound to my house. Listen, Blong, all the land belonging to me to the North of the river I bestow upon you, as long as you and your sons have heirs, and as long as you remember your duties toward my puri (princely house).”

The fate of a piece of land

by jean couteau • image windia

UbudLife 65

the palace who still knew the “rights and duties” between his house and Oblong’s descendants.

Then, he died. Upon his death, Gabler and Kocong, Oblong’s great grand sons, again showed up, faithful as ever, collecting the bamboo and helping to build the cremation tower. It was “their” prince who had died, and they felt they “belonged” to his house.

Anak Agung Anom and Anak Agung Putra, however, did not see themselves as feudal princes anymore, but as modern businessmen. Although they still felt good to be treated as lords, they relied on law and contracts. They believed in “papers,” while their fathers had believed in oral engagements. And these engagements, perhaps still valid within the village, were mere “words” outside it. So what happened? Shuffling through the mansion’s documents after their father’s death, they came upon the old pipil of Oblong’s land. That their ancestor had neglected to change its status did not matter. To them it was still princely land. In need of money they decided to sell it.

This is how Oblong’s descendants lost the control of their land.

There have been more than a few Oblong and Anak Agung Lingsir in Bali. And there are many A.A Putra, A.A.Anom, Kocong and Gabler. As land gains value and becomes a commodity, and as the old communal and feudal bonds weaken, old “promises” and “rights” lose their power of law or are just forgotten. Sometimes, the self-righteous heirs sue and expel the Kocongs and Gablers; at other times, they acknowledge the “service” performed by their former palace’s dependants and compensate them. Only one thing is certain: Money is wreaking havoc upon what remains of the old social structure of Balinese villages....

This is how Oblong knew that he had had land given to him. He had thanked the prince profusely and had taken possession of the place. His Lord’s word was law, and Oblong did not feel the need, nor did he dare to ask, to have his lord’s will written down on lontar palm-leaf, as he knew a brahmin had done. He believed in his lord.

Since then, each time there was a summons, they were to be the first, he and his family, to show up, be it to contribute bamboo for the building a of ceremonial platform or for a show of force at the border of the state. Oblong had become a faithful parekan (dependant) of the prince.

Then the old prince died, and later so did Oblong. His sons carried on their duty. “We belong to the puri,” they would say, and thus were faithful to its prince. According to their talent, and upon their prince’s request, one would teach dance, another carve the doors of a restored building, a third one would have one of his daughters living at the puri and all gave bamboo, rice from the crop and indeed free labor.

These were the ways of the time. A “feudality” of sorts, but balanced by a strong network of interpersonal bonds and exchanges.

Then came the Dutch and independence. The land was registered at the Land Office. The pipil (indigenous tax registration papers) were still in the name of the prince, but on the ground nothing had changed: Oblong’s great-grand sons still used the land and still paid their duties to their princely lord. Later, however, came the time when the sons of the prince were no more prince of a village, but city dwellers. One was the head of a bank in Denpasar, another a high official in Jakarta. Only the old Gung Lingsir was still living in the old puri of Abian Gombal. He was the last one in

OPINION

Sensatia - it’s a sensation!WWW.SENSATIA.COM

Sensatia is the newest natural product company to emerge in the retail scene in

Bali. Founded in 1999, It is only recently that they have opened their store in Ubud and another at their GMP Certified production facility in Jasri, Karangasem - a remote fishing village on the east coast.

Sensatia employs a slew of local producers – providing sustenance for loofah growers, seaweed and salt harvesters, herbal lulur makers, coconut harvesters and fruit and vegetable growers. Probably one hundred or more Local Balinese make a good living working with this enlightened company.

Everything is ethically produced, using holistic and organic practices. Not only do they use pure organic ingredients – sea salt from the east coast flower essences from the islands.

Body butters, body milk, divine bath salts, health enhancing essential oils of the highest standard, as well as anti aging oils for the face, are all part of their ever growing product list. While sourcing and production is local, standards are international and with a head office in New York, well we know that is one tough market!

Their delightful natural soaps are also worth a look. Made in small well controlled batches, with pure oils and organic ingredients, they are cured for a month before wrapping and packing.. Some use rich Shea butter which is so good for the skin, other just divine fragrance blends.

My favorite is the heavenly Cleopatra’s Rose fragrance which is just heaven when your pour some bath salts into a steaming bathtub.

Mmm later after being refreshed, you can anoint your body with the rich and scented body butter (skin cream).

There are plenty of other fragrances to discover, but I just cant go past this one.

You can drop by their new retail outlet on Jl. Monkey Forest and indulge yourself with the luxury of knowing that these delightful products are also doing you good. They may not be the cheapest but they are probably the best with over 150 products registered with BPOM (Indonesia’s Health Ministry.) Check their Facebook page for newest information and the location of their next new store!... facebook.com/Sensatia <http://facebook.com/Sensatia>

Sensatia Botanicals

Jl. Monkey Forest 64, Ubud Kelod, GianyarT: (62) 361 340 0011

Jl. Pantai Jasri 720, Jasri Kelod, Karangasem T/F: (62) 363 23260

Coming Soon - June 2015 - 2 New Sensatia Shop Locations - The Village Seminyak & BeachWalk Kuta Beach.

UbudLife 67

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UbudLife 71

THE REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA

WORLD MAP

UBUD

ISLAND OF BALI

UBUD LOCATION Ubud, lies in the heart of Bali, in the centre of the fertile southern rice growing plains. Fertility means much more than the simple sawah or rice fields, it refers to the huge flowering of the arts which happens all around this magical town. Ubud is the home to the arts. Painting, music, dance and gamelan as well as woodcarving, maskmaking and sculpture have attracted visitors for decades.

Artists also apply their skills to making attractive things for visitors. Whole streets, like the Tegallalang Road are lined with crafts shop making clever knick knacks to tempt buyers.

Out from Ubud are magnificent vistas to view and temples and wonderous sights to enjoy. Around Ubud there is plenty to keep a visitor busy for days. Enjoy!...

When we stay in the warm embrace of Ubud’s soft feminine energy, we

sometimes forget which island we are on, let alone which country. So just sometimes, it is a pleasure to make a foray out of Ubud and see something typically Indonesian – like a colourful night market.

In the good old days, Ubud used to have its own night market in the parking space of the Ubud Market. Sadly, due to pressure from local restauranteurs and who knows who else, the market folded and the vendors moved their kaki lima food carts off to more sympathetic venues.

The outcome is that now, if we wish to experience the delicious delights of Indonesian hawker food we need to venture out of Ubud town. So Ubud Life went to explore some of the more interesting night markets, not too far away. Some people take a tour, but really seeing people being led around a night market with all the sense of discovery removed is a bit much for this intrepid explorer. But if you like to feel safe – it is certainly an option.

Best is the Pasar Sengol in Gianyar town. Every day in the late afternoon, vendors can be seen wheeling or driving their portable stalls in to place to create makeshift restaurants , food stalls, table seating and also clothing venues. The market is in two parts – on the main road are all the largest and most established stalls, set up with tables, chairs, drinks and even napkins. Here is where you will find the best babi guling – Bali’s luscious roasted pork that Gianyar is famous for. It used to be

washed down with a glass or two of tuak- the ubiquitous palm wine, but strangely, it seems to have disappeared from the menu! Another victim of gentrification no doubt!

Other stalls sell satay kambing – or goat sate and a creamy coconut curry soup, all served with rice. Try it, you wont believe how delicious and warming it is. Others still, sell a kind of chicken nasi campur – or mixed rice. Chicken comes cooked a la betutu, fried, stewed and barbequed – you taste a little bit of each. It all comes with a serving or two of delicious vegetables which you get to chose from the stunning array – beansprouts, greens of several varieties, and more. Just look for the stall with the longest queue. That of course, is where the best dishes will be selling.

Or cross the road, and enter the gates of the Pasar Sengol. Guarding the entrance are flower and offering sellers, whose sweet aromas perfume the cool night air. Inside are smaller food carts and a host of fun wares. Kitchen wares, bags, DVDs, gewgaws and trinkets interspersed with food stalls. Buy and try you wont die, and you may even enjoy.It is possible you won’t know what they are selling but this is where your senses come into play. Look smell, touch, get involved. It is a delightful meditation and a journey in to this wonderful country we are all guests of....

Night Markets A venture into Indonesiaby ayu sekar • images jill alexander

UbudLife 73

BALI MAPLEGEND: Provincial capital Town Mountain LakePlaces of interest Village Temple Airport/Airstrip Harbour Surfing spotsDiving spots

50 10 15 20 25 35 40 45 50 km30

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L O M B O K S T R A I T

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S T R A I T

I N D O NE S

I AN

OC

EA

N

Tegallalang

Sedihing

Pemuteran Reef Building

BiahaMimpang

Tepekong

Gili Selang

Jemeluk WallBunutan Reef

BuyukSD

Manta Point

Manta Point

Malibu

Secret Bay Puri Jati [muck-diving]

Blue Corner

Crystal Bay

LETKOL WISNU AIRSTRIP

Kubutambahan

Sanda

Seminyak

BENOA HARBOUR

Taro

Kertakawat

Bubunan

Labuhan Haji

Pujungan

Buruan

Jemeluk

BucuBangbang

Padpadan

Delod Berawah

Sumbersari

PangkungdedariMelaya

Candikusuma

Banyubiru

Cupel

Munduk

Bayun

Jagaraga

Pemaron

Kaliasem

BuktiPacung

JulahBondalem

Sambirenteng

Tembok

Sekardadi

Kayubihi

Kayuambua

Sulahan

Buahan

Sengkidu

Tihingan

YehsumbulPesinggahan

Bajera

Selemadeg

Bantas

Kengetan

Kerobokan

Batubelig

MuncanAngantaka

Banyupoh

Lalanglinggah

Senganan

SembungTimbrah

Tegalasih

Petitenget

Penulisan

Kedisan

Subagan

Pandakgede

Sumberkima

Labuhan lalang

Tibubiyu

Mt. Agung3142

Pecatu

UngasanSawangan

KampialBualu

Mumbul

Kedonganan

Tuban

Tanjung Benoa

GelogorcarikPegok

Pesanggaran Blanjong

Renon

Padanggalak

SemawangBatujimbar

SindhuSanglah

Pengubengan

Legian

BrawaUmalas

Muding

Ubung

Canggu

BerabanYeh Gangga

Pejaten

KediriGubugBeraban

Kerambitan

Soka

AntosariSuraberata

Ngis

Timpag

Samsam

Blayu

Wanasari

Marga

Batusari

Denkayu

Sibang

Blahkiuh

Abiansemal

Sempidi

Darmasaba

Sibang

Tohpati

Sumerta

Lumintang

Singapadu

Batuan

Sakah

Lebih

BlahbatuhKemenuh

Bone

SidanKutri

Petulu

Bunutan

Bongkasa

Peliatan

Kawan

Petak

Akah

Selat

Sidemen

Talibeng

Mambal

Silakarang

MENJANGAN ISLAND

CekikSumberkelampok

Klatakan Blimbingsari

Airanakan

Perancak

Munduk

Yehkuning

Mendoyo

Batuagung

Yehbuah

BanyuwedangGoris Pulaki

MelantingGondol

PenyabanganMusi Gerokgak

Celukan BawangTegallenga

Kalisada

PengastulanSeririt

Ringdikit

Dencarik

Sidetapa

Cempaga

MayongBestalaPancoran

Temukus

Tigawasa

Kalibukbuk

AnturanSukasada

Panji

Banyuning

Pegayaman

Gitgit

Yehketipat

Bila

TamblangTegal

Bakungan

Bungkulan

Busungbiu

Subuk

Pupuan

Tista Batungsel

Belimbing

Munduk

Gobleg

Asah Gobleg

Tamblingan

Asahpanji

Candi Kuning

Pancasari

Kembangmerta

Pelaga

Catur

Penginyahan

Gentah

Bantang

Les

Tianyar

Muntidesa

Baturinggit

Culik Amed

Seraya

Jasri

Bugbug

Asak

Bebandem

Sibetan

Buitan

AbabiAbang

Manggis

Ulakan

GelgelKamasan

Dawan

TembukuIseh

Sindu

Selat

Sidakarya

Muncan

Rendang

SingarataMenanga

BuyanPempatan

Seribatu

PengotanPenyebah

Batur

Penulisan

Penelokan

NungkungPekaranganBaturiti

Pacung

Soka

ApuanAngantiga

Petang

Sandakan

Luwus

Jatiluwih

BabahanWongaya

Ampadan

PitraPenebel

Perean

Kuwum

Payangan

BukitCeking

NGURAH RAIINTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

SERANGAN ISLAND

SebatuPujung

Puhu

LEMBONGAN ISLAND

CENINGAN ISLAND

NUSA PENIDA

Jungutbatu

Lembongan ToyapakehPed

TelagaKutampi

SampalanSentalkangin

MetakihGelagah

BayuhPonjok

Batukandik

Batumandeg PejukutanAmbenganPendem

Pelilit

TangladSoyorBungkit

Tabuanan RamoanSekartaji

Anta

SemayaSuana

Pidada

AsahdurenManggissari

PasebanSaren

Mt. Seraya1175

Mt. Batur1717

Mt. Abang2153

Mt. Catur2096

Mt. Batukaru2276

Mt. Merbuk1386

Mt. Mesehe1344

Mt. Musi1224

Jimbaran

Tejakula

Yehembang

Penuktukan

KubuRubaya

Fast Boats Padangbai (Bali) - Gili Islands (Lombok)

DENPASAR

TABANANGIANYAR

BANGLI

NEGARA

Taman Nasional Bali Barat(West Bali National Park)

SINGARAJA

AMLAPURA

KLUNGKUNG

Ferryto

Nusa

Penida

Ferry Padangbai (Bali) - Lembar (Lombok)

Batukaru

Padangbai

Gilimanuk

Banjar

Lake Bratan

Mas

Trunyan

Kuta

Lovina

Alas Kedaton

Candidasa

Lake Batur

Batubulan

Uluwatu

Sanur

Sangeh

Mengwi

Celuk

Sukawati

BeduluUBUD

Pemuteran

Sangsit Air Sanih

Lake TamblinganLake Buyan

Bedugul

Ujung

Tenganan

Tirta Gangga

Kusamba

Besakih

Kintamani

Tampaksiring

Nusa Dua

Tanah Lot

Tulamben

Sental

Japanese WreckBunutan

Goa Lawah

Silayukti

Lempuyang

Beji

Jasri

Keramas

Sanur

Serangan

GegerSuluban

Padang Padang

Bingin

Kuta

Canggu

Balian Beach

Medewi

Rambutsiwi

Ferry ChannelBlue LagoonTanjung SariTanjung Jepun

Shipwreck

Ferry to Java

Batuabah

BALI MAPLEGEND: Provincial capital Town Mountain LakePlaces of interest Village Temple Airport/Airstrip Harbour Surfing spotsDiving spots

50 10 15 20 25 35 40 45 50 km30

Jimbaran Bay

Legian Beach

San

urBe

ac

h

Kuta Beach

Canggu Beach

Nusa

Dua

Bea

ch

Medewi Beach

Balian BeachSoka Beach

TulambenB

ay

Amuk Bay

Candidasa Beach

Lo

vina Beach

L O M B O K S T R A I T

BA

LI

ST

RA

I T

B A L I S E A

BA

DU

NG

S T R A I T

I N D O NE S

I AN

OC

EA

N

Tegallalang

Sedihing

Pemuteran Reef Building

BiahaMimpang

Tepekong

Gili Selang

Jemeluk WallBunutan Reef

BuyukSD

Manta Point

Manta Point

Malibu

Secret Bay Puri Jati [muck-diving]

Blue Corner

Crystal Bay

LETKOL WISNU AIRSTRIP

Kubutambahan

Sanda

Seminyak

BENOA HARBOUR

Taro

Kertakawat

Bubunan

Labuhan Haji

Pujungan

Buruan

Jemeluk

BucuBangbang

Padpadan

Delod Berawah

Sumbersari

PangkungdedariMelaya

Candikusuma

Banyubiru

Cupel

Munduk

Bayun

Jagaraga

Pemaron

Kaliasem

BuktiPacung

JulahBondalem

Sambirenteng

Tembok

Sekardadi

Kayubihi

Kayuambua

Sulahan

Buahan

Sengkidu

Tihingan

YehsumbulPesinggahan

Bajera

Selemadeg

Bantas

Kengetan

Kerobokan

Batubelig

MuncanAngantaka

Banyupoh

Lalanglinggah

Senganan

SembungTimbrah

Tegalasih

Petitenget

Penulisan

Kedisan

Subagan

Pandakgede

Sumberkima

Labuhan lalang

Tibubiyu

Mt. Agung3142

Pecatu

UngasanSawangan

KampialBualu

Mumbul

Kedonganan

Tuban

Tanjung Benoa

GelogorcarikPegok

Pesanggaran Blanjong

Renon

Padanggalak

SemawangBatujimbar

SindhuSanglah

Pengubengan

Legian

BrawaUmalas

Muding

Ubung

Canggu

BerabanYeh Gangga

Pejaten

KediriGubugBeraban

Kerambitan

Soka

AntosariSuraberata

Ngis

Timpag

Samsam

Blayu

Wanasari

Marga

Batusari

Denkayu

Sibang

Blahkiuh

Abiansemal

Sempidi

Darmasaba

Sibang

Tohpati

Sumerta

Lumintang

Singapadu

Batuan

Sakah

Lebih

BlahbatuhKemenuh

Bone

SidanKutri

Petulu

Bunutan

Bongkasa

Peliatan

Kawan

Petak

Akah

Selat

Sidemen

Talibeng

Mambal

Silakarang

MENJANGAN ISLAND

CekikSumberkelampok

Klatakan Blimbingsari

Airanakan

Perancak

Munduk

Yehkuning

Mendoyo

Batuagung

Yehbuah

BanyuwedangGoris Pulaki

MelantingGondol

PenyabanganMusi Gerokgak

Celukan BawangTegallenga

Kalisada

PengastulanSeririt

Ringdikit

Dencarik

Sidetapa

Cempaga

MayongBestalaPancoran

Temukus

Tigawasa

Kalibukbuk

AnturanSukasada

Panji

Banyuning

Pegayaman

Gitgit

Yehketipat

Bila

TamblangTegal

Bakungan

Bungkulan

Busungbiu

Subuk

Pupuan

Tista Batungsel

Belimbing

Munduk

Gobleg

Asah Gobleg

Tamblingan

Asahpanji

Candi Kuning

Pancasari

Kembangmerta

Pelaga

Catur

Penginyahan

Gentah

Bantang

Les

Tianyar

Muntidesa

Baturinggit

Culik Amed

Seraya

Jasri

Bugbug

Asak

Bebandem

Sibetan

Buitan

AbabiAbang

Manggis

Ulakan

GelgelKamasan

Dawan

TembukuIseh

Sindu

Selat

Sidakarya

Muncan

Rendang

SingarataMenanga

BuyanPempatan

Seribatu

PengotanPenyebah

Batur

Penulisan

Penelokan

NungkungPekaranganBaturiti

Pacung

Soka

ApuanAngantiga

Petang

Sandakan

Luwus

Jatiluwih

BabahanWongaya

Ampadan

PitraPenebel

Perean

Kuwum

Payangan

BukitCeking

NGURAH RAIINTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

SERANGAN ISLAND

SebatuPujung

Puhu

LEMBONGAN ISLAND

CENINGAN ISLAND

NUSA PENIDA

Jungutbatu

Lembongan ToyapakehPed

TelagaKutampi

SampalanSentalkangin

MetakihGelagah

BayuhPonjok

Batukandik

Batumandeg PejukutanAmbenganPendem

Pelilit

TangladSoyorBungkit

Tabuanan RamoanSekartaji

Anta

SemayaSuana

Pidada

AsahdurenManggissari

PasebanSaren

Mt. Seraya1175

Mt. Batur1717

Mt. Abang2153

Mt. Catur2096

Mt. Batukaru2276

Mt. Merbuk1386

Mt. Mesehe1344

Mt. Musi1224

Jimbaran

Tejakula

Yehembang

Penuktukan

KubuRubaya

Fast Boats Padangbai (Bali) - Gili Islands (Lombok)

DENPASAR

TABANANGIANYAR

BANGLI

NEGARA

Taman Nasional Bali Barat(West Bali National Park)

SINGARAJA

AMLAPURA

KLUNGKUNG

Ferryto

Nusa

Penida

Ferry Padangbai (Bali) - Lembar (Lombok)

Batukaru

Padangbai

Gilimanuk

Banjar

Lake Bratan

Mas

Trunyan

Kuta

Lovina

Alas Kedaton

Candidasa

Lake Batur

Batubulan

Uluwatu

Sanur

Sangeh

Mengwi

Celuk

Sukawati

BeduluUBUD

Pemuteran

Sangsit Air Sanih

Lake TamblinganLake Buyan

Bedugul

Ujung

Tenganan

Tirta Gangga

Kusamba

Besakih

Kintamani

Tampaksiring

Nusa Dua

Tanah Lot

Tulamben

Sental

Japanese WreckBunutan

Goa Lawah

Silayukti

Lempuyang

Beji

Jasri

Keramas

Sanur

Serangan

GegerSuluban

Padang Padang

Bingin

Kuta

Canggu

Balian Beach

Medewi

Rambutsiwi

Ferry ChannelBlue LagoonTanjung SariTanjung Jepun

Shipwreck

Ferry to Java

Batuabah

PURI WIRATADive Resort & Spa

Le 48

SensatiaAshyana

Jl. Raya Candidasa no.48 (main road)Candidasa 80851

Karangasem - East BaliT: +62 363 41177

E: le48balihotel@gmail.com www.le48bali.com

“A cozy place to stay & dine right by the beautiful Candidasa Lagoon”Serving French & Indonesian menu - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

78 UbudLife

CANDIDASAa place for romance

words • image by ayu sekar

Take a room in a hotel that overlooks the sea and you get a panorama that changes all day. There are plenty of Hotels along the

shoreline, not to mention a few fancy villas, if that is more your preference.

Breakfast time by the sea is always a pleasure, and as you wander down to a seaside din-ing room, a different, beautiful world awaits. Friendly staff, morning sun that melts away the misty early morning look, as the sea becomes blue and inviting. There are always a few jukung (fishing sampans) to enliven the view and the whole scene just makes you feel alive.

There is plenty to do around Candidasa. Tak-ing a car and driver for a day to explore is always a fun option. You can run into Amlapura – the capital of Karengasem and visit the palaces of the Royal family that ruled there for many cen-turies. The big bustling market in the centre of town isalways a thrill and if you fossick around in the older section, you will find terra cotta bowls and statues that you can pick up for a song. But don’t be too tough! Everyone needs to live! Tirthagangga and Ujung are both old sum-mer palaces and Tirthagangga’s royal bathing pools have become popular with a much larger number of visitors than in the old days when they were reserved exclusively for royalty.

The traditional village of Tenganan is a favourite with everyone, and the number of amazing ceremonies they enjoy needs to be seen to be believed. The very dignified folk of this village just seem to take visitors in their stride. Be open and they make like to invite you into their homes to view their arrays of traditional textiles which include their very own gerinsing double ikat handlooms. An old piece made with natural dyes will fetch up to several thousand dollars – well worth it in the eyes of collectors in the know. Of course they have newer, cheaper, pieces to tempt you as well.

But if you just want a romantic getaway, stay close to a hotel and pool and just chill. There are plenty of great accommodations in the area and you can look around. Or just go, check the inter-net and find a place and let the pressures of the world slip away while you sink in to a state of abject relaxation.

OUT OF TOWN

UbudLife 79

nEXT ISSUEimage windia

We visit some mystical places around Ubud.

Ubud life explores.

Tenganan - everyone’s favourite Traditional village.

We visit Bambooku and learn about Bamboo textiles.

Sleepovers - always checking new and exciting places for you to enjoy.

Food Food Food! - what’s new, what’s good.

We look at Hatten wine producers in Bali.

Bale Udang RestaurantJl. Raya Goa Gajah, UbudPhone: 0361 978754www.baleudang.com

BridgesJl. Raya Campuan, UbudPhone: 0361 970095www.bridgesbali.com

Biah BiahJl. Goutama, UbudPhone: 0361 978249

Biah-Biah+Jl. Pengosekan, UbudPhone: 0361 8015124

Bollero Bar & RestoJl. Dewi Sita, UbudPhone: 0361 972872www.bollerobali.com

Cafe Des ArtistesJl. Bisma 9x, UbudPhone: 0361 972706www.cafedesartistesbali.com

CP LOUNGEJl. Monkey Forest, UbudPhone: 0361 978954www.cp-lounge.com

Down To EarthJl. Gootama Selatan, UbudPhone: 03617835545

Damar RestaurantJl. Raya Pengosekan, UbudPhone: 0361 978374

Dolce Arancia RestaurantJl. Gotama 17, UbudPhone: 0361 7802381

Griya RestaurantJl. Raya Ubud, UbudPhone: 0361 975428

Gedong SisiJl. Raya Ubud, UbudPhone: 0361 977276www.gedongsisi.com

Ibu Rai Restaurant Jl. Monkey Forest 72, UbudPhone: 973472www.iburai.com

Juice Ja Cafe Jl. Dewi Sita, UbudPhone: 0361 971056

RESTAURANTS

ACCOMMODATION

Arma ResortJl. Pengosekan, UbudPhone: 0361 976659www.armaresort.com

Cendana Resort & SpaJl. Monkey Forest, UbudPhone: 0361 973243www.cendanaresort-spa.com

Gunung Merta BungalowJl. Andong, Peliatan, UbudPhone: 0361 975463

Kupu Kupu BarongJl. Kedewatan, UbudPhone: 0361 975478www.dewanggaubud.com

Om Ham RetreatJl. Tirta Tawar, UbudPhone: 0361 9000352www.omhamretreat .com

Melati CottagesJl. Raya Penestanan Kaja, UbudPhone: 0361 974650www.melati-cottages.com

Ubud Sari Health ResortJl. Kajeng, UbudPhone: 0361 974393www.ubudsari.com

Sri Ratih CottagesJl. Raya Campuhan 1, UbudPhone: 0361 975638www.sriratih.com

Tepi Sawah VillasJl. Goa Gajah, Peliatan, UbudPhone: 0361 970388www.tepisawahvillas.com

Terrace Abing ResortBanjar Kebon, Tegallalang, UbudPhone: 0361 980970www.abingterrace.com

Villa Beji IndahBanjar Nyuh Kuning, UbudPhone: 0361 974168

KebunJl. Raya Hanoman 44B, Ubudwww.kebunbistro.com

KAFE Jl. Raya Hanoman 48B, UbudPhone: 0361 970992

Lotus Lane Jl. Monkey Forest, UbudPhone: 0361 975357www.lotus-restaurants.com

NOMADJl. Raya Ubud 35, UbudPhone: 0361 977169www.nomad-bali.com

Sri Ratih Cafe & JewelryJl. Raya Campuhan 1, UbudPhone: 0361 975638www.sriratih.com

Kafe TopiJl. Nyuh Kuning No.2, UbudPhone: 0361 8235151

Warung Sopa GardenJl. Nyuh Kuning 2, UbudPhone: 0361 2801340

Warung AlamiJl. Penestanan, UbudPhone: 081 23913754

Warung Merta SariJl. Uma Suke Wayah, UbudPhone: 0361 2021892

Warung PerancisJl. Cok Rai 77, Teges, Mas, UbudPhone: 0361 978109

White BoxJl. Raya Andong, UbudPhone: 0361 979059www.whiteboxbali.com

CP LoungeJl. Monkey Forest, UbudPhone: 0361 978954www.cp-lounge.com

Cafe HavanaJl. Dewi Sita, UbudPhone: 0361 972973www.cafehavanabali.com

Damar Restaurant, Bar & LoungeJl. Raya Pengosekan, UbudPhone: 0361 978374

NIGHT LIFE

UbudLife 81

82 UbudLife82 UbudLife

Sari Api CeramicsJl. Dewi Sita, UbudPhone: 0361 971056

CERAMICS

Lanang Men [Painter]Jl. Lungsiakan, UbudMobile: 082 4652259

Wayan Suarmadi [Painter]Jl. Raya Pengosekan, UbudPhone: 0361 978197

Wayan Sila [Owl House]Jl. Bisma, UbudPhone: 977649 | Mobile: 081 8566861

ARTISTS

GALLERIES

Pilar Batu GalleryJl. Pengosekan, UbudPhone: 0361 978197www.pilarbatu.com

Sari Api GalleryContemporary Handmade CeramicJl. Raya Sanggingan, UbudPhone: 082 3831 5697

Tanah Tho GalleryJl. Raya Lodtunduh, UbudPhone: 0361 981482www.tanahtho.com

SHOPS

BambookuJl. Hanoman 32, UbudPhone: 0361 7803119www.bambooku.com

Sensatia BotanicalsJl. Monkey Forest 64, UbudPhone: 0361 3400011www.sensatia.com

Nirmala - Work On T’shirtJl. Hanoman 2, UbudPhone: 0361 7475404

Rainbow SpiritJl. Hanoman 38, UbudPhone: 0361 3699978 www.rainbowspiritbali.com

Studio PerakJl. Hanoman, UbudPhone: 0361 974244Jl. Monkey Forest, UbudPhone: 081 236 51809www.dketut37@yahoo.com

SISIJl.Nyuh Kuning No.2, UbudPhone: 0361 8235151www.sisibag.com

YINJl. Dewi Sita, UbudPhone: 0361 970718Jl. Monkey Forest, UbudPhone: 7801879www.yinjewelryforthesoul.com

SPAS

Aura Theraphy SpaUbud Aura Retreat CenterJl. Hanoman 888, UbudPhone: 0361 972956www.ubudaura.com

Bali Healing SpaJl. Raya Ubud, UbudPhone: 0361 27997658www.balihealingspa.com

Bali Botanical Day SpaJl. Raya Sanggingan, UbudPhone: 0361 976739

FRESH SpaJl. Dewi Sita, UbudPhone: 0361 8493677

KUSH Ayurvedic Rejuvenation SpaYoga Barn - Jl. Pengosekan, UbudPhone: 0361 971236www.yogabarn.com/kush

Kayma SpaJl. Monkey Forest, UbudPhone: 0361 9100017www.karmaspaubud.com

Milano SalonJl. Monkey Forest Road, UbudPhone: 0361 973488prs_milano@yahoo.com

Putri Bali SpaJl. Raya Sanggingan, UbudPhone: 0361 7801841www.putribalispa.com

Suravi SpaMonkey Forest Road, UbudPhone: 0361 4013663www.suravispa.com

Sedona SpaJl. Raya Campuhan, UbudPhone: 0361 975770www.sedonaspa-ubud.com

SKIN Organic Spa and Waxing SalonJl. Gotama 24 & Jl. Sanggingan 36, Ubud Phone: 0361 975615 & 0361 975604rsvp@ubudSkinOrganic.com

Taksu Spa and RestaurantJl. Gootama Selatan, UbudPhone: 0361 971490www.taksuspa.com

PROPERTY

Red Lotus PropertyJl. Sukma, Br. Tebesaya, UbudPhone: 970980www.redlotusbaliproperty.com

Yoga BarnJl. Pengosekan, Ubud-BaliPhone: 971236 www.theyogabarn.com

Intuitive FlowJl. Penestanan, Ubud-BaliPhone: 977824 | Mobile: 081 23924649www.intuitiveflow.com

YOGA CENTRE

UbudLife 83UbudLife 83

CONSULATES

USEFUL NUMBERS

MUSEUMS

ARMA ( Agung Rai Museum of Art )Jl. Raya Pengosekan, UbudPhone: 974228

Antonio Blanco Renaissance MuseumJl. Raya Campuhan, UbudPhone: 975502

Museum Puri Lukisan UbudJl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, GianyarPhone: 975136

Neka Art MuseumJl. Raya SangginganPhone: 975074

Pendet MuseumJl. Nyuh Kuning, UbudPhone: 971338

Rudana MuseumJl. Raya Cok Rai Pudak, Peliatan, UbudPhone: 975779

Australia

Brazil

Czech Republic

Denmark & Norway

French

Germany

Hungary

Italy

Japan

Mexico

Netherlands

Spain/Portugal

Sweden & Finland

Switzerland

Unitedkingdom

USA

241118

757775

286465

701070

285485

288535

287701

701005

227628

223266

761502

769286

288407

751735

270601

233605

Ambulance

Airport Authority

Bali Police Department

Directory Inquiries

Fire Brigade

Immigration

International Red Cros

Post Office

Search and Rescue

Sanglah Public Hospital

Tourist information Center

Time

Ubud Tourist Information

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751011

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113

751038

226465

161

751111

227911

753540

103

973286

Ashyana CandidasaJl. Raya Candidasa, Karangasem Phone: 0363 41359www.ashyanacandidasa.com

Le-Zat RestaurantJl. Raya Candidasa, KarangasePhone: 0363 41538, 41539www.balicateringservices.com

Le 48 Hotel & RestaurantJl. Raya Candidasa 48, Karangasem Phone: 0363 41177www.lezatbeachrestaurant.com

Puri Wirata Dive Resort and SpaJl. Raya Bunutan, Amed, Karangasem Phone: 0363 23523www.puriwirata.com

Bali Wake ParkJl. Pelabuhan Benoa, PesanggaranPhone: 0361 8468869www.baliwakepark.com

Bali Adventure RaftingBypass Ngurah Rai, PesanggaranPhone: 0361 721480www.baliadventuretours.co

SEPEDA BALIGreen Adventure CyclingJl. Nyuh Bojog, UbudPhone: 0361 978631www.sepedabali.com

SPORT/RECREATION

EAST BALI SECTION

Tirta Ayu Hotel & RestaurantJl.Tirta Gangga, Karangasem Phone: 0363 22503www.hoteltirtagangga.com

Villarossa CandidasaJl.Candidasa, Karangasem Phone: 0363 42062www.villarossa.org

Villa SasoonJl. Puri Bagus Candidasa, Karangasem Phone: 0363 41511www.villasasoon.com

Watergarden Hotel Restaurant & SpaJl. Raya Candidasa, Karangasem Phone: 0363 41540www.watergardenhotel.com

Leave your religion andflip flops at the door, please-

Most of us confuse religion with faith. Rituals and ceremonies are man-made. Does God need to be celebrated with the very things He has created? If I was God I would be insulted if my believers landed up at my doorstep bearing things that I had made… Further, if they brought those (offerings) into my home wearing their religion, instead of faith, like flip flops.

Today the world is fragmented by a religious fervour that defies logic. Religious symbols have become multi-national brands. Outlets are opening on the hour every hour of one brand or another. The enticing neon lights lead many of us into a world of perceived miracles. We make God out to be some cheap magician, waving a magic wand.

Could it be that we have tragically misunderstood the message of and from the Universe?

Why do we need religious books with rules, the dos and don’ts for followers? Isn’t it enough to honour the Universal Spirit by serving and preserving all life?

The human tribe, which is decimating the flora and fauna, has now turned on itself slaughtering its members and making the earth into one large open air abattoir.

Millions of children die of hunger every year while people and their pets grow fat on overindulgence. Diet pills and exercise regimes are the fad for fat people who can’t keep their mouth shut.

Has religion and its attendant paraphernalia of ceremonies succeeded in comforting our conscience; As long we say our prayers, make the stipulated offerings, do penance and pretend to live a ‘religious life’, all will be well?

Could it be that the human tribe is lost in a desert of self-deceit and self-importance, dangerously flirting with the idea that we are the gods themselves?

Has faith become a figment of our imagination and reality, religion?

Perhaps it would be wise to leave our religion and flip flops at the door of life, and to enter it with our faith.

I shall leave you now with these words of my friend Dr Ivo Coelho, Priest and Philosopher, from his article Faith and Religion – ‘Our spontaneous tendency is to think that we are the lion. But in the end, the lion is God. Faith, I learned, is not something I do for myself. It is a gift.”

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om...

Mark UlyseasPublisher/Editor, http://www.liveencounters.net Free online magazine from village earth.

LAST WORD

Mark Ulyseas

84 UbudLife

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