Mystical Bali (or not)

Bali - The land of the gods. The artistic and culture heart of central Java.

Almost everyone I knew has been to Bali. The cousin who had the most romantic wedding reception in Bali, the lovey dovey couple who flew to Bali for a romantic weekend getaway, and anyone who managed to save up a little moolah for oversea trips. Bali is usually a destination that top the list.
 
For me, my fascination with Bali begun after I read about Ketut Liyer, the Balinese medicine man in Elizabeth Gilbert's 'Eat, Pray, Love'. That was in 2007, before the book became a media sensation! Oh never mind about the surf, the beach, the bazaar, nor the culture bit or the artistic production of Balinese craft which would normally tickle my fancy. I just wanna meet a 'Ketut Liyer' :) And that was why I was saving Bali for a longer trip instead of a weekend getaway.

I went to Bali about a month ago with my parents. It was a 5 day 4 night trip and of cause I didn't put much hope in meeting a 'Ketut Liyer'.

Beach wear are plentiful at Jalan Double Six

My first impression of Bali is that, its too touristy for my liking. Every corner I turned, there is bound to be a Caucasian with a surf board. Given that we stayed at Jln Double Six, it's probably not a fair judgment of how Bali was portrayed.. Massage parlor, cafes, shops selling Balinese souvenirs and craft are also bountiful at Jln Double Six. Compared to Jogja (which I affectionately called 'My Soul City'), I couldn't quite relate to Bali. And so, my fine impression of Bali has indeed been tainted by such unpleasant sight that is too commercialized for my liking.


Nevertheless, I enjoyed the time spend with my parents. We pretty much covered the highlights of Bali - Taman Ayun, Alas Kedaton, Tanah Lot, GWK, Uluwatu and Jimbaran Bay.

Bali, definitely warrants a second visit. And the next time I am in Bali, I'll make sure I stay away from Kuta and Legian area!