2 years ago I returned to one of my favorite places in the World to celebrate a milestone birthday. My favorite place on Earth?…. Bali, Indonesia.
I’ve been to Bali 3 times now and every time I go, I feel so much joy and so much peace, it is truly a magical place. In particular, the place I go is Ubud, which is nestled in the river gorge of the Ayung River. Ubud is known for the arts, dance, music, painting and crafts. Every night you can find another dance to view, on every street you will find another artist’s studio and as you walk the neighborhoods, you can faintly hear sounds of the gamelan. The people are warm and inviting and I always make friends there who touch my life in some fashion.
And what can make me happier being there? The Monkey Forest! I could spend my whole vacation there. Monkeys are sacred to the Balinese and there is a forest where they roam freely. You can offer them bananas or just sit by and watch them play or scare the tourists. Of course, if you sit quietly, most likely you will end up with a monkey (or two) who will sit on your head.
During part of my last trip, I stayed at a private home. I was treated like a honored guest and I was even invited to a village festival. They dressed me up in appropriate attire for the festival and generously allowed me not only take part in the festival, but to let me photograph it as well. A truly memorable experience.
Enjoy.
no comments