Bali Relaxation

Uboood Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T08:41:00.001-05:00

Photos from Halloween 2010 are on facebook:
http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Accessories-2009-Download.html?a=iwst101029

Halloween 2010 in Bali

2010-10-04T09:29:00.002-05:00

Come to the best Halloween party in Bali, on Saturday 30-October-2010.
No, this one is not at a beach. It's in Ubud...

http://www.uboood.com/

Check out the facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=122914787763380

Even buy tickets (or make a donation) online at
https://sa2.seatadvisor.com/sabo/servlets/TicketRequest;jsessionid=F47330021BE4033404B94347AF25A9A4?eventId=100213290&presenter=IDGPB&venue=&event=#

12 Handicapped Divers Unfurl the Indonesian Flag

2010-09-01T08:21:00.003-05:00

Red and White Beneath the Blue
12 Handicapped Divers Unfurl the Indonesian Flag at the Bottom of the Ocean.

(8/21/2010) Twelve handicapped divers from the Senang Hati Foundation successfully unfurled the red and white Indonesian national flag on the ocean's bottom to mark the 65th anniversary of the Republic's founding on August 17, 2010.

According to Beritabali.com, the 12 divers were accompanied in their patriotic quest by certified divers who witnessed the unfurling of a flag at a depth of around 7 meters below the waters of Tulamben, off the shore of the northwest regency of Karangasem in Bali.

Determined to demonstrate that physical infirmities are no impediment to the vigorous display of patriotic spirit, the flag was delivered to the deep by two divers – Dayu Wiadnyani and Wayan Parwati. Then, four other handicapped diver – Gusti Lanang Wirawan, Komang Astawa Aris and Wayan Sugiarto took responsibility for flying the colors of Indonesia below the waves. Also participating in the ceremony were Sang Ayu Nyoman Puspa, Kadek Candrawasih, Ketut Sudianti, Nyoman Rudiawan and Nyoman Budiarsa.

Shortly after resurfacing, one of the participants, Aris, shouted "Merdeka" or "Liberty" - the traditional greeting of Indonesian patriots.

Prior to the independence day event, the participants underwent several weeks of training provided by Afandi Junaedi, the Dive Master who has been training the group over the past three years.

This is the second time that the Senang Hati Foundation has undertaken a similar flag ceremony. The first event took place on Independence day in 2008 off Sanur beach in Bali's south.

© Bali Discovery Tours. Articles may be quoted and reproduced if attributed to http://www.balidiscovery.com. All images and graphics are copyright protected.

Halloween 2009 in Bali

2009-09-30T07:17:00.005-05:00

It's that time again - another U-booo-d Halloween Ball is coming! For more info, check out http://rotaryubud.blogspot.com/

Featuring guest artist Tom Rigney http://www.rigomania.com/

And benefiting Muntigunung to acquire clean water http://www.zukunft-fuer-kinder.ch/en/home/

Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bali Ubud.

Halloween Party in Bali??

2008-11-02T09:33:00.002-06:00

Yes, a Halloween Party in Bali!A Fundraiser, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bali Ubud, toward buying an ambulance for a local fee-free birthing clinic.

Yes, that’s Tandy “in the pink”. What’s my costume? “A clinging vine” – a long green knitted (of course!) vine braided into my almost-waist-length hair, then looped and pinned around my head and shoulders. I had fun trying out a variety of flower and leaf patterns – roses, sunflowers, trumpet flowers, sort-of-poppy, oak leaf, and more. Oh, in case you’re wondering, that is not a large-ego sized TANDY in red-and-white in front of me. It’s a Tango cookie tin – just happened to be perfectly positioned for the photo!

Who is with me? Well, Daisy from Java is in the Kabuki makeup taking money. She’s our current Treasurer. And sitting beside me is Reki of Lady Bamboo Villa – hence the bamboo leaves in her hair!
Who attended? A WIDE variety - from Bali, from other parts of Indonesia, from Singapore, Australia, India, Germany, France, USA, Canada, and more. Some who live in Bali, some who live part-time in Bali, and some who were just in Bali for vacation!
More costumes and party-ers:

Tropical Twinsets (TM) Handknit in Lace

2008-08-18T09:35:00.001-05:00

Just completed my first Tropical Twinsets (TM) Handknit in Lace, designed and knitted by yours truly using cotton purchased here in Bali!

What's the idea? Well, I love knitting lace. Most areas in Bali are warm-to-hot during the day. Most cool off a bit at night. So, a lovely light lacey top works great during the day. And at night? Dress it up a bit and cover up shoulders at the same time!

Underneath this lace ponch is a lace tube with 2 long straps that can be worn at least 4 ways. As a spaghetti-strap top, with 2 straps crossed in the back (a bit more secure). With only 1 strap as a halter. Or thread the ties all the way around through the lace eyelets at the top of the tube and tie securely for the prettiest tube-top ever!

New building with 4 guest rooms at Bhanuswari

2008-08-18T09:23:00.000-05:00

Mid-August, there was a Balinese Hindu ceremony to bless a new building with 4 guest rooms under construction at Bhanuswari.

Yes, that's me in the corner.

The head priest and 2 assistants - Nyoman's mother is farthest from the camera.

And here is the view that guests in the 2nd floor rooms will have! You see additional offerings for the ceremony in the foreground. And on the right-hand side, there is construction for another villa!

Knitting Lessons at Yayasan Senang Hati

2008-08-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

Recently I began lessons on knitting. Attendance ranges from 4 - 8, a mix of men and woman, plus one boy. Ibu Ayu has attended and participated every time, and practices between lessons. As you can see from the photos, she is already doing lace patterns! Her husband has joined us for 2 of the classes, and has also continued outside of class. Both of them speak and understand English relatively well. And Ibu Ayu's husband taught himself and Wayan (the 9 year-old boy in the photos) a cast-on from the notes that I had NOT demonstrated at the lessons.

At the first lesson, young Wayan observed - and coached some of the others on technique! The first time he tried, he chose small needles and thin acryllic yarn - and was determined, but struggling. Recently I brought knitting worsted, gave him the larger bamboo needles (donated by Rotarians from Australia) and it was much easier for him! He understands it, just needs some more practice.

I am enjoying the lessons and the visits very much. They are much better students than I am a teacher, but we are having fun and learning together. Yesterday, Gusti Ayu accidentally created her own technique - inserting the needle from the top and wrapping the yarn backwards from the way I do - but the result looked like a knit stitch - and seems more comfortable for her!

Yayasan Senang Hati - Gallery

2008-08-18T08:33:00.003-05:00

Several members of Yayasan Senang Hati (Happy Hearts Foundation) are artists who do painting, ceramic, cross-stitch, wood carving, sequined batik handbags and more which are sold in their gallery:

For additional information and photos:

http://balirelax.blogspot.com/2008/05/dpex-heart-of-bali-bike-tour.html

http://usi1151.multiply.com/journal/item/5

http://www.idepfoundation.org/senang_hati.html

Manik Batik Galeri in Mas-Ubud Bali

2008-06-25T01:31:00.006-05:00

18-June-2008, "Manik Batik Galeri" held its Grand Opening in Mas, just south of Ubud, Bali.

"Manik Batik Galeri" offers high quality batik fabric as well as ready-made batik shirts, dresses, sandals, fans, handbags, coin purses, lipstick holders, and more. In addition, there are batik Paintings (a unique single panel of a non-repeating image).

Besides batik, the shop carries songket (handwoven cloth with gold or silver threads woven into the design) and ikat (the threads are dies first, then the fabric is woven). Also silk scarves and some Indian Sari type fabrics.

Beyond woven fabric, there are items hand-knit in Bali for sale - shawls, scarves, afghans, and caps - selection varies, as each item is unique.

And beyond all the fabrics, Gemala offers silver jewelry. Some items include gem stones. Others are decorative filigree - a minature of Indonesia's version of the trishaw.

Demonstrations of many of the techniques are available onsite, including free-form batik and hand-weaving.

The grand opening included a "ribbon cutting" - though since this is Bali, the "ribbon" was a beautiful strand of flowers.

Here you see several of the "congratulation" signs and flowers from other businesses and well-wishers.

Balinese dancers - a "welcome dance" of course!

And then "bird of paradise" - one of my personal favorites.

These beautiful ladies work at Bhanuswari Resort and Spa. Notice the variety in their Kebayas (blouses?) From left to right: 2-toned green-on-white lace (over a white corset), cotton with contrasting embroidery, solid red lace (over a black corset), and cotton with matching embroidery.

Balinese Children's Dance Performance

2008-06-14T00:32:00.004-05:00

Photos from a recent dance performance at a school near Ubud. The kids are only 4-7 years old!

Details of the makeup for a young boy.

Details of the costumes.

A young Balinese beauty in costume.

A young Balinese beauty dancing.

A young Balinese boy posed in costume.

Another young Balinese boy dancing.

DPEX Heart of Bali Bike Tour

2008-05-18T09:10:00.004-05:00

A group of cyclists came from Singapore to raise money for charitable organizations in Bali. Kupu Kupu and Senang Hati both assist people with handicaps.

Starting in Sanur, their path included Kekeran, Lovina (optional dolphin viewing), Amed, Candidasa, Ubud, Gunung Batur (Kintamani), Tegalallang, Tanah Lot, and back to Jimbaran - over 450km!

Arrival in Ubud and lunch at Batun Waru:

More photos:

The Gala dinner included a performance by dancers from one of the beneficiaries:

And then the donation checks were presented:

Sponsors were:

How are Ogoh-Ogoh constructed?

2008-03-09T04:16:00.005-05:00

The Young Men's Association in each village (desa) or neighborhood (banjar) use inspiration from the Balinese Hindu gods and goddesses for their designs.

Construction starts with a frame of wood, bamboo or rattan, and wire mesh.

(1) Here you can see "balls" being used to provide rounded buttocks and belly.

(2) Once the torso shape is established, layers of newspaper are applied.

(3) Then a base coat of paint, and the hands and feet are attached.

Examples of some of the final products...

(1) This one has the woven "balls" inside.

(2) This is the witch Rangda - shown above with newspaper applied.

And a close-up of her face and her foot.

(3) And this pair were the ones with a base coat of paint above.

Bali's own New Year - Nyepi

2008-03-09T04:04:00.000-05:00

Bali’s Nyepi Day - March 7, 2008, marked the Balinese New Year. The exact date of Nyepi varies slightly each year, as it is based on a Lunar calendar - usually near Easter.

On the day before, each village display Ogoh-Ogoh. These are papier-mache "statues" created by the Young Men's Association in each village (desa) or neighborhood (banjar). They are mounted on bamboo platforms. In the late afternoon, you’ll hear firecrackers and small cannons made from bamboo. And around sunset, there is an island wide parade of Ogoh-Ogoh to transform negative energy and drive off the evil spirits.

Nyepi Day itself is a Day of Silence. Having driven off the evil spirits, everyone must now stay quiet for 24 hours (sunrise 7th to sunrise 8th), so that the spirits will think everyone has gone, and there is no one left in Bali for them to bother for the next year - or at least, that's the explanation for children and tourists.

Businesses are closed, except for hotels. No cars, buses, or motorcycles will be on the roads. And Bali is the only place I know of where the government shuts down the airport for meditation & introspection! Balinese stay in their family compounds, dedicating an entire day to introspection and cleansing - intelectual, emotional, and physical. The entire island becomes quiet. There are no cars, no tv's or loud radios, no lamps or fires and no airplanes overhead.

Personal Leadership in Bali

2008-02-27T03:57:00.000-06:00

Jan O'Brien came to Bali recently - via Houston, Texas and England and India and Singapore!
While here, she very generously offered a free one-day introduction to Personal Leadership to the Rotaract Club of Ubud (http://www.rotaryubud.org/rotaract/about-rotaract.htm), and to members of the Campuhan College English Club.

The event was held at the Villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa (http://www.bhanuswariresort.com/).

John Kramer, a member of the Rotary Club of Bali Ubud (http://www.rotaryubud.org/), helped found this Rotaract Club. As you can see, he still provides support - in this case, a quick shoulder massage to relieve tension. On the walls, are some examples of "how I got to this seminar".

And here are several of the participants taking a break by the Villa's private swimming pool.

Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - 2nd Anniversary PARTY

2008-01-12T21:57:00.000-06:00

Bhanuswari Resort & Spa in Bali opened just 2 years ago. This year's anniversary celebration included...

Bali's traditional "welcome" dance...

A speech by Nyoman Suweta, the Managing Director...

More Balinese traditional dances...

Including the very beautiful "Bird of Paradise"...

Live music...

"Sexy" dancing...

A cake...

Guests...

And the wonderful staff and their families...

Awarding prizes to the winners of the games from the preceding 3 days...

And more dancing...

Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - 2nd Anniversary Games

2008-01-07T06:41:00.000-06:00

Bhanuswari Resort & Spa in Bali opened just 2 years ago. Part of the annual celebration includes games - with prizes going to the winners.

Overseen by Mr. Nyoman Suweta, Managing Director.

Here you see the posture race - an empty soda bottle balanced on the head while walking around the koi / lotus pond!

Even trickier without hair!
And here is the sack race in 2 different styles - the traditional hop and the tricky running version.

As you see, the staff had a great time. Here is their version of "Hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil - have no fun!!".

New Year's Eve in Bali

2008-01-07T05:41:00.000-06:00

Panorama Hotel (http://panoramabali.com/) in Ubud, Bali, holds a New Year's Eve party every year. Last year, I arrived jet-lagged and my photos reflected it. This year, I was so well-rested that I did a bit of dancing, and even led the Limbo line. (No photo of me doing that, of course!)

Being Bali, the decorations are an interesting mixture. Bali is primarily Hindu. Many tourists are Chinese (the Buddha) or Christian (the Christmas tree).

This year's celebration included a local rock-and-roll band, playing old standards as well as current Indonesian "Dangdut" - pop music.

Panorama is proud to have several guests who return every year.

They were presented with small gift baskets as a token of appreciation.

In spite of a thunderstorm (or maybe because of it!), there were a variety of other guests, too.

From the very young,

to the young-at-heart,

to those using wheelchairs (Panorama is one of the few restaurants in Ubud without steps to climb).

Some dancers were Competitive Ballroom quality,

others a bit more free-wheeling.

Conga lines with restaurant and kitchen staff...

Limbo with both guests...

and staff.

As you see, a real melting pot (or salad bowl?) of nationalities, races, ages, religions, sizes, shapes, and abilities.

It's never to early to start shopping for Christmas - part 2 - clothing

2007-12-01T07:29:00.000-06:00

12/01/07It's never to early to start shopping for Christmas, right? So how about getting a head start right now?

Looking for a t-shirt with a difference? How about one made in the USA from 100% organically-grown organic cotton? http://www.cafepress.com/tandyevshop.131146315

For her, in pink (or other colors) - http://www.cafepress.com/tandyevshop.135842241

For him - a golf shirt? http://www.cafepress.com/tandyevshop.135842245

A cap maybe? In 100% brushed cotton with your choice of white or khaki?
http://www.cafepress.com/tandyevshop.131146308

Or a classic trucker’s hat? http://www.cafepress.com/tandyevshop.131146307

It's never to early to start shopping for Christmas - part 1 - calendars

2007-12-01T06:46:00.000-06:00

It's never to early to start shopping for Christmas, right? So how about getting a head start right now?

The "I want to go to Bali" calendar has some of the loveliest pictures you have ever seen. Check it out now at http://www.cafepress.com/tandyevshop.134554927

Or pick out your favorite flower from these http://www.cafepress.com/tandyevshop/3020218 for a one-page wall calendar.

Here's my favorite!

My Birthday Party in Bali

2007-12-01T03:57:00.000-06:00

The staff at Bhanuswari held a Pool Party for my birthday! And it was so much more than I expected.

First, they decorated the area between the salt water pool and the Villa with a combination of crepe paper streamers and traditional Balinese decorations made from young coconut leaves.

Can you see the archway?

Tables had balloons with both Happy Birthday and "Selamat Datang" - Indonesian for "Welcome!"

You can see the staff were relaxing. (And this is a better view of that archway!)

We had a great time playing in the pool (yes, that's my back) - recorded pop music, volley balls,

and mattress floats.

At sunset, I went in to change and came out to find that the setting had changed! Candle light now surrounded the pool.

Of course there was a cake - beautiful!

I had requested catering in the form of "nasi campur" (literally "mixed rice" - the Indonesian "blue plate special") so that the kitchen staff could join the party. What I actually got was "bebek betutu", the Balinese smoked spiced steamed duck - delicious.

And I got presents - totally unexpected! I had just wanted a party so we could play together.

The packages were beautifully wrapped and practical: sandalwood folding fans and cotton face cloths (I still sweat a lot), a new handbag (my pink-striped one is getting tired), and chocolates (yes, I’m still addicted).

Am I still loving living in Ubud, Bali? You bet!!

Nusa Dua and Ubud

2007-10-11T09:27:00.000-05:00

If you have only been in the Nusa Dua area (beach and 5 star resorts and shops), and if you have enough time, come up to Ubud (pronounced "oo-bood"). How much time is enough? Well, it takes about 1 hour each way by car. What would you see that's different from Nusa Dua? Terraced rice paddies (a healing, relaxing green), hills & trees, Balinese villages.

Different villages specialize in different arts - jewelry (gold & silver), wood carving, paintings (at least 7 different styles in 7 different villages), batik & ikat fabric making, basket weaving, carving & painting masks used in traditional dance and religious performances - and much, much more.

If the free afternoon includes evening, you could have dinner up here, too. Maybe try a Balinese specialty - bebek betutu (steamed spice duck - or you can get chicken prepared the same way), or grilled crispy duck. Or babi guling - roast pig. I could arrange (free) transportation for you - and up to 3 others.

If you don't want to stay near Nusa Dua, 2 favorite tourist sunset locations are the temple at Ulu Watu on the cliffs. And dinner at a fresh seafood restaurant at Jimbaran Bay; we've gone to "Aroma" several times. They usually offer at least 2 types of fish, shrimp / prawns, sometimes lobsters. And a choice of cooking methods and chili-spice levels. We usually go for grilled.

There's almost always a music (gamelan) or dance performance somewhere. While there are no major Balinese Hindu ceremonies Dec 10-15, there may be a village celebrating the "birthday" of its temple.

Bongo Visits Bali!

2007-09-12T00:04:00.000-05:00

I just met a really sweet traveler, and thought you might enjoy meeting him too. He's very polite, never shouts, never irritates other travelers.

His photos from Bali have not yet been posted - I'll post another update when that happens.

http://www.altbongo.com/

A mini-vacation with all 5 senses

2007-06-24T12:40:00.000-05:00

Here's my recipe for a mini-vacation with all 5 senses:
- get something that smells tropical (perfume, essential oil, suntan lotion, fresh-cut lemon...)
- put on something that sounds tropical (hula, gamelan music, Balinese bamboo & flute music...)
- turn on an oscillating fan (so you feel a tropical breeze)
- fix yourself some fresh fruit juice, or a pina colada or Singapore Sling so that you taste something tropical
- browse through this BLOG to see photos of beautiful Bali
or dream about your perfect trip to Bhanuswari Resort & Spa: http://www.BhanuswariResort.com/

Soloist and Bird of Paradise Balinese Dancers

2007-06-11T03:46:00.000-05:00

There was a teenage soloist.

The final dancers at the Panorama party were the Birds of Paradise -

2 women who were exquisitely beautiful in their dance.

Anniversary at Panorama Hotel Bali

2007-06-11T03:02:00.000-05:00

1 Year after Nyoman Suweta took over as Managing Director of Panorama Hotel in Ubud, Bali,

he threw a party for the staff to celebrate.

There were awards for "The Best of the Best" in 3 categories.

The Best of the Best Departments: Food & Beverage - Product - accepted by Chef Ketut

The Best of the Best HEAD of Department: Winner Kadek Suwalo

The Best of the Best Employees: Winner Wayan Suarjana Putra

And there were Balinese dancers in costume.

Young girls in the traditional Welcome dance,

with offerings and flower petals.

Slightly older dancers with folding Fans.

A truly bizarre game where female staff members picked up worms (or benign snakes?) and stuffed them into beer bottles.

The bottle with the most worms won.

Locally Crafted Pillows - with Built-in Aromatherapy

2007-05-19T04:35:00.000-05:00

While shopping for some items to make the villa even more welcoming, we found these lovely throw pillows (just up the street from the Delta Dewata supermarket).

They come in several colors, as well as neutrals, with built-in aromatherapy in the fabric inserts. I'm not sure what it is - a bit like sandal wood.

They also have small bolsters - perfect for the sofa arms.

And matching magazine holders.

They have many other styles and sizes - silk covered poufs, for example - that would suit other decors. And they sell a few very original purses! Ever seen a leopard skin handbag

with an enormous zipper? The teeth were almost 1 inch wide - unfortunately, I didn't have my camera at the shop.

Guests and Everyday Ceremonies

2007-05-19T04:22:00.000-05:00

While this group of guests were having breakfast at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa...

The wife of the resort's Balinese Hindu priest was making offerings and prayers in the lobby.

Unfortunately, the small temple rests at a height more appropriate for her husband. She is quite a bit shorter than he is, so she relies on a lobby chair to get up and down.

More Butterflies

2007-05-19T04:10:00.000-05:00

Yes, I'm a sucker for butterflies. And I will continue to add new photos for your enjoyment.

You really need to come here and see for yourself - still photos don't capture the joy of 2 butterflies dancing together in the air. A couple of days ago (withOUT my camera handy), I even saw FOUR dancing together!

For this shot, I'm looking up at the pergola over the lobby entrance. I think the butterflies get confused and are "trapped" by the glass on top of it - much to my photographic advantage!

And a perfect profile.

A different location, a different butterfly, thanks to my telephoto lens! The Swift Peacock (irridescent blue-green) seems especially fond of this flowering tree.

Cooking Lesson

2007-05-19T04:04:00.000-05:00

A guest who is currently living in Seoul, Korea decided to take his first-ever cooking class while staying at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa.

Here, he demonstrates how to roll and fold a banana leaf around a filling of spiced fish. The package is then steamed for about 20 minutes.

While eating the results, he said that it was all delicious, and that he plans to cook Balinese cuisine for his friends when he returns. Lucky friends!

Koi and Lotus Pond

2007-05-19T03:52:00.000-05:00

The koi have already had babies!
I caught this shy baby a couple of days ago, after an early morning rain - those are rain drops on the lily pad.

Here's a more brightly colored one.
And the beautiful pink lotus flowers are blooming!

Friendly Neighbors Take Culture Classes at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa

2007-05-19T03:27:00.000-05:00

Just up the hill from Bhanuswari Resort & Spa, a Dutch couple built a villa. (See it at http://balirelax.blogspot.com/2006/10/new-neighbors-near-bhanuswari-resort.html) A couple of weeks ago, a brother brought his 3 girls for their first trip to Bali.

Though they stayed at their own villa, they took advantage of nearby Bhanuswari Resort & Spa for many of their meals and activities. Since they were only staying for 6 days, they didn't want to hire a cook. And a short walk (less than 5 minutes) brought them to Bhanuswari's 3-4 star meals, at 2-3 star prices (May is still "low" season).

With no swimming pool at their villa, they were still able to swim - by joining the "Swim Club" at Bhanuswari. For a small daily fee, they could use the salt-water pool, a pool towel, and get a juice or soft drink.
And when they got tired of shopping in nearby Ubud (or maybe it was Peter who got tired, rather than his teenage daughters!), they took a wood-carving class in the resort's lobby.

A few simple tools...

Attention to details...

And completed dolphins!

Recycled Glass - art and gifts

2007-05-07T03:48:00.000-05:00

Photos taken at Nyoman Glass shop on Jalan Raya Mas, just south of Ubud, Bali.
Many of the larger pieces are displayed right on the street.
In addition to glass, the shop offers wood carvings.
There are a few pieces of cobalt / Prussian blue – my personal favorite.
And some pieces have an opaque finish.
Whimsical birds and cat / angles fly overhead.
Yes, that is a fish bowl, complete with fish!
Smaller items include a variety of beverage glasses, candle holders, ashtrays, and perfume bottles with stoppers.

Indoor Plants added at Villa

2007-05-07T03:46:00.000-05:00

The management at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa decided to bring the outside indoors at the Villa.
The dining area offers a view of the front garden. And brings it inside, too.
Known as “lucky bamboo”, this group is woven together, forming a hollow cylinder.
The dining area also offers a view of the back garden. And now brings it inside, too.
The living room also features a living plant now.

Fully Furnished Kitchen at the Villa

2007-05-07T03:44:00.000-05:00

The kitchen in the Villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa is fully equipped, so that you have the choice of preparing your own meals, engaging a cook / maid, or ordering from the Terrace Restaurant.
The kitchen has a pass-through window to the dining room, lots of counter space, and a double sink.
By USA standards, the refrigerator may look small. It is relatively large for Bali, where the freshest produce is gathered or purchased daily, not weekly.
The kitchen also has a gas range, electric kettle, microwave oven, and rice cooker / steamer.

Statues added at Villa

2007-05-07T03:19:00.000-05:00

The landscaping in front of the Villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa has grown in nicely, thanks to the rainy season.
A recent shopping trip brought a new statue.
Placed in the niche by the front door (yes, double-doors secured by a padlock – very common in Bali).
Genesha is regarded by the Balinese as the god of knowledge and justice. The Indian Hindu also know him as the “remover of obstacles.”
Just inside the front door, Saraswati now resides in a larger niche in the living room.
Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge and the arts.
Her escorts are swans. On her special day in Bali, books are offered for blessing by her.

Family Rice Field Trekking

2007-05-07T02:12:00.000-05:00

Bhanuswari Resort & Spa has offered walking / trekking through the surrounding rice fields since its inception.
You get to meet farmers and see how the irrigation system works. The Balinese “subak” have operated for hundreds of years.
Crossing from one property to another is where some of the Trekking part of the excursion comes into play.
Good balance helps when crossing a bridge of 2 bamboo poles!
A rest break at a balé.
Looks like they’re having fun!

Tired of walking? Climb a coconut tree
Even big sister takes a turn. (Climbing a regular vertical tree takes an entirely different technique!)
Back to the beginning – the driveway into Bhanuswari Resort & Spa, with adjoining rice paddies.

Rock Painting

2007-05-06T01:40:00.000-05:00

One of the newer activities available at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa is Rock Painting.
The staff instructors explain and demonstrate how it is done.
Students begin painting.
The work can be quite delicate and requires concentration.
The proud artists with their finished projects!

Ogoh-Ogoh - Bali's Answer to Mardi Gras?

2007-04-01T05:26:00.000-05:00

Bali’s Nyepi Day - March 19, 2007, marked the Balinese New Year. The exact date of Nyepi varies slightly each year, as it is based on a Lunar calendar.

On the day before, each village displayed Ogoh-Ogoh. These are papier-mache "statues" created by the young men in the village. They are mounted on bamboo platforms. In the late afternoon, you’ll hear firecrackers and small cannons made from bamboo. And around sunset, there is an island wide parade of Ogoh-Ogoh to transform negative energy and drive off the evil spirits.

Nyepi Day itself is a Day of Silence. Having driven off the evil spirits, everyone must now stay quiet for 24 hours (sunrise 19th to sunrise 20th), so that the spirits will think everyone has gone, and there is no one left in Bali for them to bother for the next year.

Businesses are closed, except for hotels. No cars, buses, or motorcycles will be on the roads. And Bali is the only place I know of where the government shuts down the airport for meditation & introspection! Balinese stay in their family compounds, dedicating an entire day to introspection and spiritual cleansing. The entire island becomes quiet. There are no cars, no tv's or loud radios, no lamps or fires and no airplanes overhead.

Women walking down the village street to make offerings in the early afternoon.

Here are some Ogoh-Ogoh.

The amount of creativity is amazing!

As is the detailed work.

Youngsters ready to lift their Ogoh-Ogoh on a bamboo platform.

Twilight, Sunset, Night

2007-04-01T05:17:00.000-05:00

More Rainy Day Photos

2007-04-01T05:09:00.000-05:00

If you look closely, you can see a spider web on this orchid plant.

Very wet leaves.

Puddles plus one leaf...

And tropical landscaping, with a nice misty background across the rice fields on the other side of our stream.

Beautiful Rainy Day in Bali

2007-02-17T02:23:00.000-06:00

We're in the "rainy season" here. This does not mean constant downpours. Instead it means that everything grows even faster than usual. So, I got out my camera again to show you.

Here's the salt-water swimming pool with fountain, and raindrops striking the water. The temple is in the background on the right, the villa on the left.

Here's a wider view of the pool, sun deck, and the temple. And I caught a small pot with a floating flower in the lower right corner of the photo.

And here's a close-up of the plant, with water drops about to fall from the tip of the leaf that's almost in the middle of the photo.

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - The Party Day 3 - Part C

2007-02-01T00:01:00.000-06:00

One of the guests took photos when I could not, and garciously shared them.

Getting ready to cut the Anniversary cake.

Me dancing the Joged!!

And a better photo of a Balinese dancer.

New Lobby at Panorama Hotel in Bali

2007-01-29T23:16:00.000-06:00

There have been several changes at Panorama (www.panoramabali.com ) as the new management continues renovations.

New signs in the Restaurant

New layout - to handle 100-200 tourists at lunch some days!

And, most recently, the owner added a new lobby.

Beautiful, isn't it?

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - The Party Day 3 - Part B

2007-01-23T00:19:00.000-06:00

There was live music from a traditional Balinese gamelan orchestra.
"Joged" dance with audience participation.
And also modern rock-and-roll - live music and dancing.
Again, both guests and staff had a great time!

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - The Party Day 3 - Part A

2007-01-23T00:18:00.000-06:00

On January 5, 2007, Bhanuswari Resort & Spa held a party to celebrate its First Anniversary.
Prizes were awarded for the winners of the Games held the prior 2 days.
There were speeches - relatively short!
There was a beautiful cake, baked and decorated by their own staff.

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - GAMES Day 2 - Part D

2007-01-22T23:45:00.000-06:00

Next, the women competed in sack races. I noted 2 different styles.
The traditional HOP.
And the tricky, but effective, SHUFFLE.

Another tug-of-war, this time with a guest participating! Like me, she found out that it's not so easy!

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - GAMES Day 2 - Part C2

2007-01-22T23:44:00.000-06:00

Here are a few more spectators...
- Managing Director Nyoman Suweta and his son, Komang.

- Priest Ketut and his son Made.

- Waitress Ibu Made from Panorama, and her son.
- And a youngster I don't know.
- And a pair of friends, most likely heading off to cause mischief.

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - GAMES Day 2 - Part C

2007-01-22T23:19:00.000-06:00

I have no idea what they called this game for the women - and I'm not sure I want to know!
First, they tie a cord around their waist. There is a large nail hanging down behind like a tail.
Next, they run over to a row of bottles - and squat.
The aim is to get the nail into the bottle without using hands (so I think the lady in pink is cheating!)
Ayu Sri succeeds!
The proud (sort of) winner!
Here is another style - the twist-and-turn.

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - GAMES Day 2 - Part B

2007-01-22T23:18:00.000-06:00

Men's soccer competition - staff vs. management!
Nyoman Suweta, Managing Director, shows off his style.

Made Putra, Operations Manager of Bhanuswari, displays some very fancy footwork.

Women display their posture, balance, and grace in a bottle race.

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - GAMES Day 2 - Part A

2007-01-22T23:06:00.000-06:00

Tug-of-War

The Panorama women were tough competitors. Here's the Bhanuswari side.
And even I got involved - but we still lost!

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - GAMES Day 1 - Part B

2007-01-22T23:02:00.000-06:00

Here are some of the staff spectating while others participate.
Staff could also bring their own cheering section.

Here is the father of one of the Supervisors.

And here are the priest's wife and son.

Anniversary at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa - GAMES Day 1 - Part A

2007-01-22T22:36:00.000-06:00

Bhanuswari Resort & Spa (http://bhanuswariresort.com/)celebrated its 1 Year Anniversary in January. Prior to the big celebration, there were 2 days of games. Some pitted Bhanuswari staff against Panaorama (http://panoramabali.com/) staff (both hotels are under the same management team). Other games were staff vs. management.

Was this purely in fun? Well, it was serious enough to include a competitive standings chart and a Games Master. Since prizes would be awarded at the celebration party, competition was stiff.

Table tennis (aka ping-pong) involved...

some serious competition among the men.
Are these women really going to compete at soccer? Or are they merely displaying a feminine Balinese approach to the game?

New Year's Eve in Bali

2007-01-22T20:43:00.000-06:00

The staff at Panorama had a great time decorating and organizing the New Year's Eve Party for 31-Dec-2006.
In the garden by the lotus pond, they spelled out the hotel name using candles.

They decorated the stage for traditional Balinese dance performances. Here you see the "Welcome" dance.

This is the "Joged" or friendship dance. The female dancer selects victims... uh, guests from and pulls them on stage to dance with her.

The audience included guests from around the world - Holland, USA, and this lovely and very happy lady from the UK.

In addition to the traditional Balinese dances and music, there was a modern rock-and-roll band! They played a variety of old, world famous music and current Balinese Top-10.

The staff enjoyed the party as much as the guests!

Bellydance in Bali

2006-12-26T06:27:00.000-06:00

Sahira does a great job of reporting on her trip to Bali. This was her first stop on her first World Tour!

http://www.sahira.cc/2006tour.html

In addition to beautiful photos and commentary, Sahira shares info on how we can all reduce our personal ecological footprints - visit Carbonfund.org.

Orphanage near Ubud, Bali

2006-12-09T16:14:00.000-06:00

(In case you were wondering, I did NOT post anything in November)
These are photos from a local village orphange near Ubu, Bali.

Marily Carson and I, both of The Rotary Club of Bali - Ubud (www.rotaryubud.org/ ), went with a Rotarian from Australia to see the facilities and determine if we could help. Here we're meeting with the director.

In addition to tutoring and English lessons, the orphanage provides sleeping space for children that have not been placed at other homes in the village, as well as dance lessons in the traditional Balinese dances.

Note the intense concentration and seriousness of the young dancer learning the "Warrior" dance.

Photos of a Balinese Wedding

2006-10-16T03:36:00.000-05:00

These are an assortment of photos of the wedding party in traditional Balinese dress for a wedding. First, details of the amazing (and heavy) headdresses.

The bride and groom.

Friends.

Kittens at Panorama Hotel

2006-10-14T04:39:00.000-05:00

There are 3 relatively independent cats (or is "independent cats" redundant?) that call Panorama home.

Recently one decided to produce 3 kittens.

Unfortunately she gave birth in a niche about 6 feet / 2 meters up the plant wall in the restaurant.

After awhile, Mama Cat realized they were getting a bit too big,

so we assisted her in extracting them from the wall - by going in through the other side!

Only one had its eyes fully open - "I'm ready for my close-up!"

"Now it's my turn on top!"

Professional Photos of Bhanuswari Resort in Bali - Part 2

2006-10-04T02:19:00.000-05:00

The lobby -

Relaxation area.

Restaurant & bar.

Coming up from the rooms downstairs.

The Balinese Hindu temple by the salt water pool - upper level - priest at prayers.

Lower level.

Professional Photos of Bhanuswari Resort in Bali - Part 1

2006-10-04T02:07:00.000-05:00

Earlier this summer, a professional photographer on holiday came with his wife to have lunch at Bhanuswari. While here, he generously offered to take photos for free! What a blessing!

Looking uphill at the main building.

The saltwater swimming pool.
Another view of the pool - you can just see the Balinese Hindu priest at the left by the temple.

Poolside king bed rooms.

Twin bed room.

The pool at the Villa.

Balinese Paintings

2006-10-04T01:44:00.000-05:00

In the Villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa,
there is a relatively traditional painting of the hardworking rice field ducks.

And in the lobby, a painting in a traditional style that mixes motifs from traditional and modern Bali.

Traditional Scene - at the market.

Traditional Scene - music and dance.

Mixed Scene - Tourist with cameras and bicycles photographing dancers.

Mixed Scene - Tourists at the beach surfing, and a fishing boat.

4 Points of the Compass at Bhanuswari

2006-10-04T00:45:00.000-05:00

Standing on the terrace at the restaurant at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa, you see beautiful views in every direction.

To the East, theVilla.

To the West, across the stream, a neighboring rice field with a small temple for the Subak - the irrigation channel.

To the North, terraces of rice fields rising up the hill.

And to the South, past the flowers at the balcony, through the trees around a stream, you catch a glimpse of the water from a flooded rice paddy.

New Photos of the Swift Peacock Butterfly

2006-10-04T00:30:00.000-05:00

At the villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa in Bali, there are many butterflies. This one is my favorite.

New Neighbors Near Bhanuswari Resort & Spa

2006-10-02T23:13:00.000-05:00

A new villa was recently completed near Bhanuswari Resort & Spa. As neighbors, we were invited to attend the Balinese Hindu ceremony for blessing the house.

Here's the approach from Bhanuswari. The new villa is just on the other side of the small waterfall.

The proud owners, being welcomed to Tengkulak village by I Nyoman Suweta, the "bandesa adat" (traditional leader), who is also the Managing Director of Bhanuswari.
The owners seated for the ceremony - and you can see the priest with the full white headress seated past the owners. And Bapak Ngurah is sprinkling holy water - he was also the general contractor for the construction.

Detail of the bowl containing holy water (previously blessed by the priest) and the flowers used for sprinkling it. You can also see an offering in the niche in one of the gate pillars.

Looking back at the gate from inside the courtyard.

Views of the villa rooms - bedrooms...

and living / dining area:

Backyard porch - to the left you see the buffet lunch set up to feed the guests.
Babi guling (roast pig, a Balinese specialty), steamed rice, sambal (like salsa), and lawar (a savory vegetable dish made of young jackfruit and garlic).

The view looking out of the backyard at other villas in the neighborhood.

More Photos of Butterflies at Bali's Bhanuswari Report & Spa

2006-10-02T23:06:00.000-05:00

This one posed for me for quite awhile, both profiles and wings spread.

New Photos from the Spa at Bhanuswari Resort

2006-10-01T01:11:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Yurie, a student from Japan, we have new photos!

Ingredients used in body treatments (and some beautiful flowers!!)

A great massage

The floral bath

Completely relaxed

Koi in Lotus Pond

2006-09-20T22:57:00.000-05:00

This little guy or gal was hanging around when I took the Lotus Blossom Life Cycle photos.

A Lotus Blossom Life-Cycle

2006-09-17T06:33:00.000-05:00

The bud

The blossom

The seed pod (after the petals fall)

The dried seed pod

Comparison to a carved fountain

The work required to keep a lotus pond beautiful

Sustainable Tourism

2006-08-30T02:29:00.000-05:00

What is "Sustainable Tourism"? A step beyond eco-tourism? Perhaps.

It is adopting practices to minimize the impact of tourism (on the local environment and indigenous culture) while improving the local economy, providing jobs, and actively improving the environment.

In Bali, Bhanuswari Resort & Spa is engaged in Sustainable Tourism. Only local staff are employed, at all levels.

They have an on-site organic garden providing fresh vegetables and fruits for the restaurant.

They offer guided treks through surrounding rice fields - rice fields that are being farmed in traditional manner, without tractors and heavy chemical fertilizers.

The Resort Management is an active part of the local community.

Balinese Hindu ceremonies take place on-site.

The site around ancient holy springs has been cleaned and improved, continuing to provide easy local access for villagers.

If you are interested in experiential travel, meeting the local people, learning about the culture, and assisting in sustaining this beautiful environment - while still having a luxury experience complete with excellent mattresses, individual air-conditioning, beautiful landscaping, and on-site massage services at the Spa, please check out BHANUSWARI RESORT & SPA at www.BhanuswariResort.com .

See a great article on this at http://www.marketwatch.com/News/Story/Story.aspx?guid=%7BF4B0F759-3CD6-43AE-B27C-1E752CCB5577%7D&siteid=google

Local Balinese Priest and Family

2006-08-15T00:22:00.000-05:00

The priest at Bhanuswari has his whole family involved.
His wife helps prepare and carry the offerings.
And their pre-school son often accompanies them in placing the offerings around the property.

Bali Procession & Beauties

2006-08-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

Recently a ceremony was held that involved both the temple at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa and a nearby village temple.

The procession

Beautiful Balinese women

and children.

American Divers - Dinner & Balinese Dance Performance

2006-07-31T22:18:00.000-05:00

A group of mainly American divers were resting at the nearby Maya Ubud between diving trips.
They decided to get in a little culture and local nature, so came to Bhanuswari for a 3 course dinner,
live music,
and a Balinese Dance performance.

Dancing "Joged",

the friendship dance.

BRI Wives Meet at Panorama

2006-07-31T21:55:00.000-05:00

The Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Wives Club held a luncheon meeting at Panorama recently.

Speakers...

Acknowledgements...

Live music...

Even a makeup lesson!

Beautiful Tropical Landscaping and Shady Grass Huts

2006-07-29T03:17:00.000-05:00

The lush landscaping at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa continues to grow in.
These are flowers called "Lobster Claws", for obvious reasons. Personally, I also think of them as "parrot beaks".

A simple hut, like the local rice field farmers use for shade during the heat of the day - and a couple of the other workers - the ducks!

A slightly fancier hut, with a raised platform. You can also see the fine crop of sweet corn we're growning organically!

A view of the back of the hotel.
A view of the private Villa.
And more pretty flowers...

The Spa Pavilions at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa in Bali

2006-07-29T02:31:00.000-05:00

The Spa at BHANUSWARI RESORT & SPA www.BhanuswariResort.com consists of 2 alfresco pavilions, offering a variety of massage and skin treatment options.
Privacy is provided by a combination of landscaping and roll-down bamboo screens.
Both pavilions are equiped with 2 massage tables, and so provide either individual or couples massages.
Each also has a soaking tub, for floral or spice baths,
as well as an open-air shower for rinsing off skin treatments, wraps, and scrubs.

So, if you want to look this relaxed... What are you waiting for? Come to RESORT & SPA http://www.bhanuswariresort.com/

Rice Field Workers - with Feathers!

2006-07-27T03:42:00.000-05:00

Many ducks in Bali work in the rice fields, providing pest control, fertilizer, and photo opportunities, of course!

"Good work, time to come home."

"Hey, guys, wait for me!"

"This hill was steeper than I thought."

"Ah... Guys? Guys? Where did everybody go?"

Birthday Party

2006-07-18T01:11:00.000-05:00

Yes, again at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa (www.BhanuswariResort.com), and again the Belgian family. Their son was celebrating his 10th birthday...
the staff provided decorations...
a special pineapple pie...
and the loan of a Balinese costume.

Balinese Dance Lesson

2006-07-18T01:04:00.000-05:00

Guests from Belgium and Holland staying at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa (www.BhanuswariResort.com), just outside of Ubud Bali,

taking a lesson in Balinese dance

and doing quite well!

Balinese Cooking Lesson

2006-07-18T00:51:00.000-05:00

A family from Belgium stayed at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa (www.BhanuswariResort.com) last week.

One of their activities was a hands-on cooking lesson for the children.

The happy family ready to enjoy the yummy results of the lesson!

World's Best Island - Bali Sunset Photos - Bhanuswari, Ubud Area

2006-07-15T05:16:00.000-05:00

In Travel + Leisure magazine's annual "2006 World's Best Awards," Bali is ranked No. 1 for the fifth time in the World’s Best Islands.
(http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2006/results.cfm?cat=islands)

These photos, taken around BHANUSWARI RESORT & SPA at sunset, help show why!

Rice field terraces - uphill - late afternoon

Rice field terraces - sunset

View from restaurant, looking across the stream...
at 6:20pm
6:22pm
6:25pm

Friends at dinner, enjoying the atmosphere and food and love at BHANUSWARI RESORT & SPA www.BhanuswariResort.com

World's Best Island - Bali Sunsets - Panorama, Ubud Area

2006-07-15T02:40:00.000-05:00

In Travel + Leisure magazine's annual "2006 World's Best Awards," Bali is ranked No. 1 for the fifth time in the World’s Best Islands. (http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2006/results.cfm?cat=islands)

These photos, taken at PANORAMA HOTEL looking toward the swimming pool and rice fields, help show why!

5:53pm

5:59pm

6:00pm

6:03pm

6:16pm

6:31pm - Looking from the front of the restaurant, toward the same swimming pool and rice fields.

6:35pm

PANORAMA HOTEL www.panoramabali.com,

World's Best Island - Bali Photos - Bhanuswari, Ubud Area

2006-07-15T02:39:00.000-05:00

In Travel + Leisure magazine's annual "2006 World's Best Awards," Bali is ranked No. 1 for the fifth time in the World’s Best Islands. (http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2006/results.cfm?cat=islands)

These photos, taken at BHANUSWARI RESORT & SPA , help show why!

The Villa

The salt-water pool and Balinese Hindu temple (taken from the restaurant terrace)

Rice field terraces with bale' (small hut)

Rice field with farmer and "working" ducks

Rice field, hut, and Mt. Agung

Uphill terraces, with smoke from burning rice straw

BHANUSWARI RESORT & SPA www.BhanuswariResort.com

Night Photos of The Villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa in Bali

2006-07-07T02:37:00.000-05:00

I turned on the lights and pulled out my trusty digital camera and tripod.

Here's the dramatic up-lighting on the Master Bedroom Ceiling.

The Pool and landscaping - when the water recirculation is shut off for the night and the lights turn on, it becomes a perfect mirror.

Looking toward the spa building - more dramatic lighting for the landscape.

Pool and back of the villa.

The Villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa in Bali (Living & Dining Areas)

2006-07-04T22:33:00.000-05:00

The colors vary, depending on the lighting. Basically, the walls are a pale, soft yellow. And the floors are a rosy-brown granite.
The main living and dining area.
Main living area, looking toward the back of the double front door, secured by a simple sliding bar of wood.
Detail of vase in the main living area, and front yard.
The dining area, looking toward the backyard and kitchen pass-through window.
The dining area, looking toward the living area. TV and DVD, looking into the back yard.

The Villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa in Bali (Master Bedroom Suite)

2006-07-04T22:24:00.000-05:00

The master bedroom suite:
The bed and private garden. More plants and flowers coming soon!

The master bedroom suite – the bed and looking out at the private pool.

The master bookcase / console.

The master vanity – and you can see the walk-in shower reflected in the mirror.

The master bath, with a luxurious soaking tub overlooking the private garden.

The Villa at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa in Bali (Guest Suite & Pool)

2006-07-04T22:04:00.000-05:00

I am currently residing at the villa!!!

The twin guest room and closet door.

The twin guest room and private garden. Yes, the mattresses are super thick and very comfy.

The twin guest vanity. You can just see the pillows on the beds in the mirror.

The twin guest bath and open walk-in shower.

Looking at the master bedroom, pool steps and lounge chair.

Joged Dance and Party at Panorama Hotel in Bali

2006-07-04T20:58:00.000-05:00

A couple of days ago there was a dinner party at Panorama (http://www.panoramabali.com/).

The food.

Some of the guests, photographed towards the back of the hotel.

The gamelan orchestra.

Balinese Joged dancer.

Balinese dancer and guest (and the back of the orchestra).

Balinese dancer with another guest, saying “thank you for the dance”.

And the Balinese dancer whirling so fast that she is almost invisible on camera!

Landscape at a Boutique Resort in Bali

2006-06-28T22:58:00.000-05:00

At BHANUSWARI RESORT & SPA (www.BhanuswariResort.com), the landscaping continues to improve.

Around the public pool.

Outside the rooms.

Detail of "lobster claw" flowers.

Inside the front yard of the villa, looking at the living area window and the front door.

Looking from the living room out to the front gate. (Okay, so this isn't landscaping - but it shows off the pretty round handle on the front door and the simple traditional "lock" on the inside of the front gate.)

And looking out the front gate up the hill to a "bale" (small hut) with an organic garden around it.

More progress on Villa in Bali

2006-06-28T22:28:00.000-05:00

The landscaping for first villa at BHANUSWARI RESORT & SPA (www.BhanuswariResort.com) is growing in nicely.

First, the front gate.

The villa is being furnished as I type! Here are the under counter cabinets in the kitchen, and the pass-through window.

And a display cabinet in the living room. Note the double wooden doors - this is the front door. (Most of the built-ins are already in place.)

The closet in the master bedroom is huge. You're seeing the short hanging space over built-in shelving. Behind the door is a space just as big for full-length dresses!

The master bath, looking into the private garden.

And vice versa - looking out the master bedroom to the private garden, to the smaller window at the foot of the master bath tub.

Back at Bhanuswari Resort & Spa, Bali

2006-06-22T01:00:00.000-05:00

I moved back to Bhanuswari yesterday. In addition to the staff, I was greeted by 2 of the butterflies - Swift Peacock and a yellow-and-black one.

The staff presented me with a Balinese welcome necklace of white-and-yellow, Frangi-Pani, purple Orchid, and orange flowers. (Very similar to Hawaiian lei.)

And they decorated my room.

And even personalized the lavatory!

Maps, Time Conversion, Currency Conversion

2006-06-22T00:02:00.000-05:00

Some links to make planning your trip to Bali a little easier:

Current Time in Bali (continuously updated):
http://www.worldtimeserver.com/current_time_in_ID2.aspx

Currency Conversion (constantly updated):
http://www.xe.net/ucc/
To convert United States Dollars to/from Indonesian Rupiahs - use USD and IDR

Maps:

Gianyar province - http://www.bali-maps.com/gianyar_bali_map.html

Bhanuswari Resort & Spa (http://www.bhanuswariresort.com/) is near the "wood carving" sysmbols near "Mas".
Panorama Hotel (http://www.panoramabali.com/) is in the Ubud area near Monkey Forest.

Ubud area - http://indonesia.sawadee.com/maps/map-ubud.html

Panorama Hotel (http://www.panoramabali.com/) - click "+" twice, then click "down" 3 times. Look for the Monkey Forest "star", then look to the road on the right, and south to see Panorama Hotel.
To see the Bhanuswari Resort & Spa general area (http://www.bhanuswariresort.com/) area, click down twice more, then click right 4 times. It's in the Tengkulak area.

Rice Field Workers in Ubud Bali

2006-06-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

The last few days I've captured photos of a variety of rice field workers.

These folks (lower right corner) are taking a well deserved break - the Balinese version of resting in the shade of haystack.

Note the woman in the center - carrying probably at least 25 kilos / 50 pounds on her head. It could even be more! The smoke on the left is from burning rice stalks. When I was growing up, this type of burning was also done - even for people's lawns. I think the practice has almost died out in the USA now.

And those ducks were not just any ducks. Here are more of the other "rice field workers" - the trained ducks! (And more smoke from the burning rice straw.)

They line up on the edge of the flooded paddies, and jump in at the duck-herder's signal to go to work.

Here some are grooming and resting.

Just to add a little more "color" - some flowers for your viewing pleasure.

Spa at Panorama Hotel

2006-06-11T23:17:00.000-05:00

There is a two-story Spa building at Panorama Hotel, in Ubud Bali (http://www.panoramabali.com/).

It is located next to the swimming pool.

Both rooms overlook the rice field "panorama" behind the hotel.

The Spa offers both a la carte massage and combination treatments such as "Mandi Lulur",
“A Javanese Royal Treatment". This unique traditional treatment begins with a luxurious massage followed by an application of herbs and spices scrub designed to exfoliate the skin and eliminate toxins from the body. The process of removal and sloughing of dead skin cells also aids in improving circulation through stimulating blood flow. A cold fresh yogurt is then applied to stimulate and restore ph balance. Then a relaxing soak in an exotic flower warm bath followed by moisturizing body lotion and an Indonesian Jamu tea will complete the traditional care. This deep cleansing treatment imparts an extraordinary sensation of relaxation, harmony and peace.

And "BALINESE “BOREH”, a luxurious therapy using rice, clove and ginger, which is wonderful for treatment of sore muscles, colds, flu, and tiredness. This traditional treatment warms the body gently, increasing blood flow to loosen tight muscles. Also assists in loosening congestion in the chest. A warm floral bath continues the relaxation process. This treatment concludes with a massage for back, neck and shoulder area.

Sahira's World Tour of Belly Dance - Part 1

2006-06-08T04:09:00.000-05:00

Sahira has started posting an on-line journal of her World Tour of Belly Dance. And since the invitation to Bhanuswari (www.BhanuswariResort.com) started it all, Bali photos are her first entry. See them at:

www.sahira.cc/2006tour.html

Suite Artwork at Panorama Hotel, Bali

2006-06-08T02:53:00.000-05:00

Outside one of the suites at Panorama Hotel, in Ubud Bali (www.PanoramaBali.com) are amazing 'bas relief' and painted scenes.

The front doorway...

Closeup of the dolphin in the lower corner under the window...

On the other side of the doorway, a peacock.

And on the terrace, with outdoor seating...

Mountains, waterfall... What else do you see?

Sorry, the deer were partially blocked by the sofa.

And here they are in extreme close-up.

Nights at Panorama, Ubud, Bali

2006-06-08T02:45:00.000-05:00

These were taken with a flash, rather than setting up a tripod for a long-exposure. Still, you can get an idea of how it looks.

The pool at night.

The lotus pond and bridge.

Standard Rooms at Panorama Hotel, Ubud, Bali

2006-06-08T02:24:00.000-05:00

As mentioned in my prior entry, renovations are in progress on all rooms. Panorama (www.PanoramaBali.com) has 3 categories - Standard, Superior, and Suite. However, the hotel IS open and accepting guests. Renovations are done in un-occupied rooms. Or sometimes during the day while guests are out sightseeing and shopping!! One returning guest mentioned that he had been pleasantly surprised to find brand new pillows, sheets, and towels when he returned to his room in the evening.

This is a King-bed.

And this is the outside sitting area. If you look carefully, you can see both the view of the rice field terraces reflected in the window, and the king-sized bed inside the room

A Twin-bed room - you can see one of the twins reflected in the mirrors.

And an inside sitting area, again reflected in a mirror. (Yes, I was having fun experimenting again!)

Suites at Panorama Hotel, Ubud, Bali

2006-06-08T02:08:00.000-05:00

Renovations are in progress on all rooms. Panorama (www.PanoramaBali.com) has 3 categories - Standard, Superior, and Suite.

A suite room - canopy bed, desk...

A large inside sitting area...

And a large terrace / balcony seating area. You can see the rice fields reflected in the suite's window.

A Hotel with a View

2006-06-08T00:51:00.000-05:00

Panorama Hotel ( www.panoramabali.com ) is located on a street in Ubud. The reason for the name is that, even though it is on the street and has shops on both sides, in the back is it has a great panoramic view!

This one was taken from a 2nd floor balcony. It's the first curved rice field terrace I have seen.

From Panorama's Restaurant.

The 2-story spa building by the pool.

A "bird of paradise" flower.

The lotus pond.

Banquets and Set-Menu Items at Panorama

2006-06-02T04:13:00.000-05:00

Panorama's restaurant is equiped to handle large groups -
50-100 and more.

On last night's menu - Bebek Betutu, the Balinese Smoked Duck, served with Satay Lilit (Balinese-style - chopped meat mixed with fresh shredded, un-sweetened, coconut and spices).

And for those who do not care for duck, Ayam Betutu, Balinese Smoked Chicken, with Satay Ayam (chicken satay).