Monday, December 26, 2016

Why choose Bali for New Year’s Eve 2017?

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Bali is not only famous for the outdoor festivities, but it’s equally famous for the celebrations that go on in hotels and bars.  My advice is, make sure to book a place in advance because there are many offers and rates for each tourist spot.
Kuta, Seminyak, and Legian are the hot spots for party through the night by young travelers.  There are a host of pubs and bars, restaurants, and cafes to choose from.


More info about Bali: Bali Travel Info

If you travel with family, Bali has it all for you.  Bali welcomes you and your family with spectacular firework displays at midnight.  Make sure to find your perfect spot to enjoy the fireworks  at one of these locations: Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Puputan Badung Square, and Jimbaran Bay.  Don’t miss the Denpasar Festival here in the Puputan Badung Square complete with its attractions.

Photo: Potato Head Beach Club

Denpasar Festival December 2016 in Denpasar Bali
(Impressively beautiful, elaborate, extravagant festival of Bali)
If you are on the island of Bali celebrating the holidays this year, don’t miss the magnificent festival that will be held on December 28-31- 2016.  This is the 9th   year of the festival and  features music, dance, street food, theater, fashion show, and more.   The event will be centered in Puputan Badung Square.  You will see a special art installation dubbed “Ebullience”, which is displayed as a form of joy by the Denpasar regency in welcoming the new year.
Every year, the festival attracts thousands of domestic and foreign tourists to celebrate and experience  the real Bali. 

Photo: Denpasar Festival

Photo: Denpasar Festival


The festival was first held in 2008 to promote the art and culture of Bali, and was formerly known as the Gajah Mada Town Festival.  Now the  festival attracts more visitors and gives the artists the opportunity to create fresh and magnificent works of art.   According to the mayor of Denpasar I. B Dharmawijaya Mantra, this festival should be a combination of tradition and  modern art forms to attract more visitors to Bali, especially during the peak Christmas season and New Year Holiday.  You will see the creative works of young artists and masters who work together in their creations for this festival to present a very fresh and spectacular end of 2016 with joy.

For more information, please visit the Tourist Information Office (Jalan Surapati 6, Denpasar. +62 361 234569. 8AM-4PM. A source of information for current events in the city and pick up a free map.)


Friday, December 23, 2016

Fantastic offer from Garuda Airlines…

Wow!


More Info About Bali Island



There are several reports from bloggers that Garuda is offering flights for 90% OFF their normal award fligts. For example, Tokyo to Denpasar for 3,500 points in economy.  The offer https://garudamiles.com/TopHome/news-and-offers/special-offers/Best-Deal-of-The-Year-en-US/

For tips and more see the Points Guy 



Here’s how the promotion works: Book award flights between December 22 and 31 for travel between February 1 and May 31, 2017.

Monday, December 19, 2016

Denpasar Festival December 2016 in Denpasar Bali
(Impressively beautiful, elaborate, extravagant festival of Bali)

Info about Bali: Bali Travel Info



Hi travelers, 



If you are on the island of Bali celebrating the holidays this year, don’t miss the magnificent festival that will be held on December 28-31- 2016.  This is the 9th   year of the festival and  features music, dance, street food, theater, fashion show, and more.   The event will be centered in Puputan Badung Square.  You will see a special art installation dubbed “Ebullience”, which is displayed as a form of joy by the Denpasar regency in welcoming the new year.



Every year, the festival attracts thousands of domestic and foreign tourists to celebrate and experience  the real Bali.  




The festival was first held in 2008 to promote the art and culture of Bali, and was formerly known as the Gajah Mada Town Festival.  Now the  festival attracts more visitors and gives the artists the opportunity to create fresh and magnificent works of art.   According to the mayor of Denpasar I. B Dharmawijaya Mantra, this festival should be a combination of tradition and  modern art forms to attract more visitors to Bali, especially during the peak Christmas season and New Year Holiday.  You will see the creative works of young artists and masters who work together in their creations for this festival to present a very fresh and spectacular end of 2016 with joy.




For more information, please visit the Tourist Information Office (Jalan Surapati 6, Denpasar. +62 361 234569. 8AM-4PM. A source of information for current events in the city and pick up a free map.)







Courtesy Photos: Denpasar Festival

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

 My favorite  10 restaurants with spectacular views in Ubud Bali


Visiting Bali without going to Ubud is like you don’t go to Bali.  As a tourist in Bali, Ubud become an attraction not for the beaches or bars, but Ubud is famous for its arts, music, architecture, dance, spiritual retreat, temples, and most iconic landscapes.  I lived in Ubud for almost 3 years on and off.   Anytime I visit Bali, I have never skipped Ubud.  The weather is very pleasant compare to southern Bali (it’s cooler) because its higher elevation.  In fact, Ubud is not a traditional Balinese rural village, nor is it  typical of modern Bali.  I try to say Ubud is a charming Balinese town with anything you need for your vacation.  Ubud has many reasonable restaurants with spectacular views of rice field landscapes, temples, rivers or waterfalls.  In Ubud you can find accommodation around $15- $300 with beautiful Balinese architecture and always with beautiful tropical garden.
Here are some my favorite restaurants in Ubud Bali:




1.      Babi Guling Ibu Oka
Babi guling, or suckling pig, is one of Bali’s most famed dishes in Bali. You can find Babi Guling almost anywhere in Bali, but Ibu Oka is the most famed spot on the island of Bali.  The pig is stuffed and infused with a spicy concoction typically Balinese spices (turmeric, coriander seeds, lemongrass, black pepper and garlic) after seasoned the pig, it’s ready to be roasted (traditionally spit-roasted). 

Location: Jalan Suweta/Tegal Sari No. 2, Ubud, Indonesia



2.      Fivelements Sakti Dining
Set between the sacred Ayung River and lush tropical ponds and gardens, Fivelements award-winning Sakti Dining Room™ features a fine dining, eco-luxurious setting.

The food they serve is prepared with love, passion and attention to detail. Their menu is designed to give optimal plant-based nutrition and high energy to support your healthy body, mind and soul. 
Experience their Signature Chef’s Specialty Tasting Menus available for lunch and dinner (3, 5 and 7-course menus) or the a la carte menu sure to surprise and delight a wide array of palates.

Location: Banjar Baturning Ubud, Bali 80352, Indonesia





3.      Bali Buda Ubud
This place still maintains some of the feeling as a yogi, meditation, healthy places to eat and natural surroundings and feels the new age atmosphere. 
Location: Jl Jembawan no 1, Ubud, Indonesia
4.      Cafe Lotus Ubud
Located on Ubud’s bustling Main Road (Jalan Raya), between the Ubud Palace and Museum Puri Lukisan, Cafe Lotus has been an institution ever since it opened its doors in 1983. 

The setting of Cafe Lotus is unique – even by Balinese standards: a large Lotus pond framed by ancient lowering Jepun or Plumeria trees and, the most recent addition, an exhibit of several dozens of blooming orchid plants. One of Ubud’s main temples, Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati, completes the scenery; the ambience is simply magical – especially during twilight hours or dining time.
Phone:
(0361) 975 660 
Operating Hours:

8.30 am – 11.00 pm daily except for major Balinese holy days
Breakfast :
8.30 am – 11.00 am
Luncheon :
11.00 am – 6.00 pm
Tea Time :
3.00 pm – 5.00 pm
Cocktails :
Throughout the day
Dinner :
6.00 pm – 10.00pm (last hot food order: 9.45pm)


5.      Casa Luna Restaurant
With its relaxed tropical atmosphere, Casa Luna offers a fine selection of Balinese and Mediterranean dishes. Situated on the main road just down from the village market, it is a favorite with visitors from all over the world.
Location: Jalan Raya Ubud, Kec. Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Phone: +62 361 977409
Open: 8 am- 11 pm

6.      Swept Away at the Samaya
This place is an ideal setting to allow you to slow down and relax.  With its comfortable “lounge” furniture, combined with the cooling breeze from the river creates a peaceful ambiance and perfect for a glass cocktail or two, or an ice cold beer. 
For lunch the menu is relaxed, light and healthy, a mixture of salads, sandwiches and local fare.
In the late afternoons a small bites menu, best described as “Asian Tapas.” And more.
In the evenings the menu is modern eclectic, with an adventurous flare. The atmosphere stays tranquil and relaxed but the setting morphs into an enchanting and romantic playground; abound with sensual foods, fine wines and cocktails.
Location:
Banjar Baung, Desa Sayan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

7.       KE-PI-TU Restaurant at The Kayon Resort


The Restaurant is set in the eficentrum of the resort with 180 degrees view over the pool and jungle landscape creates an ambiance perfect for an iced cold beer and cocktails. Designed with Kayon shaped using wood, bamboo and Alang-Alang Grass roof creates a Truly Ubud atmosphere.
The lunch menu is light and healthy, a mixture of sandwich and salads. In the evening the menu is mixed western, Asian and Signature KEPITU menu with Balinese Royal setting with weekly Culture Diner program.

Location: Banjur Kepitu, Desa Tagalalang, Ubud 80571
Contact: +62 361 4792553
Price Range: Dishes from $7.50 to $15
Opening Hours: 7am to 11pm

8.      Bebek Tepi Sawah Restaurant
Indonesian specialties, afternoon tea and cocktails are served at the Bebek Tepi Sawah Restaurant.  Enjoy a wide selection of cuisine, ranging from contemporary western and innovative Indonesian or Balinese specialties in a fresh atmosphere within the environment of the real Bali's Village.
Location: Jalan Raya Goa Gajah, Br. Tegas Peliatan Ubud Bali 80571
Contact: +62 361 975656
Price Range: Dishes from $4 to $8
Opening Hours: 10am to 10pm

9.      Murni’s Warung
Location: Jalan Raya Campuan Ubud Bali 80571
Contact: +62 361 975233
      Price Range: Dishes from $3 to $5
Opening Hours: 8am to 11pm

Since opening as a Warung (roadside stall) in 1974, Murni's has grown to four levels running down the river's edge. (Book a table at the bottom for the best views.) The menu has also grown, adding Indonesian and Western choices, but the foundation remains Balinese, with local standards like ayam betutu (spicy roast chicken), babi guling (roast pork), and black rice pudding, plus rarer specialties such as smoked curry duck. It's great for lunch and dinner.  I come here a lot and bring my friends.

10.  Bridges Bali

Bridges is one of the best restaurants in Ubud and Bali for a romantic dining experience.
Located in the charming Ubud village, bridges Bali is a casual fine dining restaurant, wine bar and shop as well as exhibition and event space.

Locaton: Jalan Campuhan, Ubud, Bali 80581
Contact: +62 361 970095



Wednesday, November 30, 2016


Garuda Indonesia is planning to fly from Jakarta to Los Angeles in 2017

Garuda Indonesia is planning to fly from Jakarta to Los Angeles via Tokyo in 2017.


 Check this out, the first class on aboard their Boeing 777-300ER Looks Amazing!


Garuda Indonesia


For More  Info about Garuda Indonesia’s frequent flyer program:

Thanks to View From he Wing
Thought Leader In Travel


Photo: Garuda Indonesia

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Cheap Flights to Bali, Indonesia FOR ONLY $551 ROUNDTRIP!


DEPART:
New York, USA
ARRIVE:
Bali, Indonesia
RETURN:
New York, USA


DATES:
Availability from February to May 2017
Example dates:
3rd-12th Feb
6th-15th Feb
10th-19th Feb
15th-24th Feb
27th Feb – 8th Mar
1st-10th Mar
8th-17th Mar
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8th-17th May
10th-19th May
12th-21st May
15th-24th May

STOPS:
Taipei

AIRLINE:
China Airlines
More Info about Bali: Bali Travel Info


Saturday, November 26, 2016

The Unique Tradition of Tumpek Kandang (A Ritual for Animals) On the Island of Bali



Alas Kedaton's Photo



The name of Tumpek Kandang is derived from two words, "Tumpek" meaning Saturday and "Kandang", the Balinese word for the household animals such as cows, pigs, chickens, ducks, dogs, and birds - all of which are highly valued by the Balinese. Tumpek Kandang is a day to worship Sang Hyang Rare-Angon (God of animals).
“The Tumpek Kandang ceremonies honor the supremacy of Ida Sang Hyang Widhi, Sang Hyang Siwa Pasupati – also known as Rare Angon, the spiritual shepherd of all wild and domesticated animals. “According to Balinese Hindu teachings, harmony between man, the animal kingdom and nature as a whole must always be maintained. Humanity must seek a harmonious coexistence with nature – including all the globe’s flora and fauna.”
Tumpek Kandang is celebrated  every 210 days on the Balinese calendar, of Saturday (Sabtu Kliwon Wuku Uye). 



On this day, we offer praise and thanks to the Creator for the continuing welfare of our animals.  Household animals in Bali will receive a special honor when local Hindus celebrate Tumpek Kandang Day, a ceremony dedicated to Sang Hyang Rare-Angon, master of all cattle and livestock. 

This year's Tumpek Kandang Day is on the November 26, 2016.  The rituals will be held at every farm and family compound. OR you can also see the special elaborate ceremonies in several places in Bali like Bali Safari and Marine Park, Alas Kedaton in Tabanan Regency, Tanah Lot, Wake Resto & Dolphin Bali Pantai Keramas, Blahbatuh Gianyar, and Bali Zoo.

Especially, Cows in Bali receive better treatment than other animals because they assist farmers when plowing the rice field. The cows are washed and dressed-up in clothes fit for humans and special cone shaped spiral of coconut leaves is placed on their horns.


The pigs are usually decorated with a white cloth wrapping their bellies. The animals are then fed with special foods, sprinkled with rice, holy water, chanting, and prayers are offered.

In the ritual procession, devotees invoke blessing in order their cattle could be bestowed with prime healthy and safety. However, philosophically the Tumpek Kandang celebration implies that people should develop compassion for all the living creatures. In the economic context, the procession mandates that the agricultural sector in the broader sense (livestock) can be developed to strengthen the economic foundations of society. Similarly, the prayers are also recited for other livestock such as pigs, goats, chickens and ducks. Even, a pig for the Hindu community in Bali is often used as a sort of saving or piggy bank. In the emergency case they can be sold to meet the needs of families.



As the animals destined for human food, chickens, ducks, pigs and so forth are often used as a protein source to support the human life, and those animals need special care.  However, For those the endangered species, should be preserved. For instance, green turtles, Bali starlings, deer, monkeys, and many others.  Balinese people also associate some animals with mythology. For instance, the animals are regarded as the property (duwe) of God such as the white cow, ape, fruit bats, snake and others. Through the mythology, devotees are actually encouraged to conserve the wildlife by preserving them based on religious concepts. Mythology seems much more powerful than a call or an appeal to preserve the endangered species.





In the Balinese Hindu concept, no single thing is without the power of God. Inside them lay the soul (the Jiwatma), for this reason the concept of developing compassion for all the God’s creatures should be continued. Through the celebration Tumpek Kandang, people should develop them well for the benefit of life and preserve the endangered species in order not to become extinct.