Activities for the Young and the Young at Heart

While in Bali, it is easy to do nothing but lie in blissful languor as the beauty of the villas and surrounds sink right into your psyche. Of course, there is also very much to do in any area in Bali aside from nothing, like...

Watching their way of life. Most anywhere in Bali, even the blind will notice the omnipresence of tradition, and the small and big daily rituals that attend it, constant reminders of the importance of paying homage to the supreme presence. You may find yourself staring, jaws dropped, enraptured by women swathed in colorful garments with towerloads of fruit on their heads enroute to the little or big offering depots scattered just about everywhere, unabashed by the routine cosmopolitan bustle around them. Then there are the big days, when much ado is focused on preparing props to be part of ritual celebrations that often reiterate the supremacy of good over evil.

Temples and Bali are almost synonymous. Balinese lives revolve and evolve around temple worship. The often monumental facades can send goosebumps into overdrive. Superfluous detail in every corner, even the smallest temple will not disappoint, and every village, town and corner, whether inland, in the mountains, by the sea, up on cliffs or right smack in touristic hubs, will present a temple, great or miniscule. There will not be enough time to visit all of Bali’s temples unless you live there.

For the list: http://www.bali-indonesia.com/attractions/temples.htm.

A few guidelines in visiting temples. Although much frequented by tourists of all walks of life, there are strict demarcations outlining where visitors are allowed to navigate. Pay respect and special attention to this. Also, proper attire is important—sarong for both men and women, and in some places, a head scarf, or a sash around the waist. Usually there are available for rent at the entrance for a pittance. No tank tops or revealing clothes. Boisterous activity is not allowed, as temples are places of worship and quiet meditation. Rituals and activities conducted within the temple grounds are highly respected. Before entering, take time to read announcements posted at the entrance, simple rules like not walking in front of a praying Balinese, or in front of the priest, not leaning or standing on sculptures to get better photo angles. You may also ask a local about regulations. They more than happily oblige.

Then there are the more earthbound items in the to-do list.

In areas clinched by sea and sand are heaps of WATER Fun to-do’s: Banana Boat, Rafting, Snorkeling, Island Cruises, Glass Bottom Boat, Jetskiing, Sea Walker, Water Skiing, Sea Cruises, Water Sports, Scuba/Diving, Surfing, Submarine Tours (http://submarine-bali.com/)

For some LAND Fun: ATV Ride, Cycling, Elephant Safari Ride, Paintball, Forest, Village & Mountain Trekking, Hiking, Horse Riding, Quad & Buggy Ride, Land Cruises, Golf, Football, Paddle Ball.

How about some AIR fun: Kitesurfing, Bungy Jumping, Parasailing, Chopper Cruises.

Attached to Bali’s superlative global reputation is its year round surf—in different parts, to a greater or lesser degree. Top surf season is from March to November, (dry season) when trade winds blow offshore. Kuta Beach, one of the most frequented beaches, can get uncomfortably crammed. Other fantastic surf spots are in Legian, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Canggu, Nusa Dua, etc.

It’s worth checking out Yos Marine Adventure (Tanjung Benoa, Phone: +62-361-773 774; +62-361-775 438, +62-361-775 440; Fax: +62-361-775 439; yosbali@indosat.net.id) - Yos offers PADI dive courses in English, Japanese, German and Indonesian, and a wide range of eco-friendly water sports and organizes beach-cleaning programs. They’ve also set to work on a coral rehabilitation program in Pemuteran (north Bali).

Related Links

http://www.baliguide.com/baliactivities.html http://www.hoteltravel.com/indonesia/bali/guides/activities_sports.htm
http://www.baliage-travelnet.com/adventure
http://www.orangutans-sos.org
http://submarine-bali.com
http://www.bali-indonesia.com/attractions/temples.htm
http://submarine-bali.com