My first trip to Bali was three years ago at a time when I needed to clear my head and spirit---and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Since then I have spent 7 months on this island and have come to look at it as a second home. Originally, a friend in Los Angeles told me about Bali--how beautiful the people are and how affordable it is for one to explore the island. On my first trip, I came to Bali with high expectations and was not disappointed. Bali is one of the few places in the world where one can truly relax without spending a fortune--it is also far enough away from home to actually enjoy freedom from the routine of life in the States, which to me is a real holiday. Weekend get-a-ways are wonderful, but stepping outside of my life inspires me to come home with a fresh outlook on the tasks before me. Effortlessly,Bali offers me this opportunity.

The people of Bali, (the Balinese) are charming, gracious and hospitable. The joy they exude is infectious, their love for one another is hauntingly inspiring and their spirit is seemingly what I imagine my angels to have. The island itself has the most amazing presence. I'm not sure how, what inspired who, but the culture of the Balinese permeates the island in every sense---from the oddly ornate clouds, to the chartreuse colored rice paddies, to the moss covered statues in coy filled ponds, to the smell of burning incense and to the intricately made offerings placed daily with purpose on the street. Surely the island has inspired the Balinese to be so gentle. The island of Bali is a temple--their temple, which they gladly share with each visitor. There is magic here and a Religion based on recognizing both evil and good. Marianne Williamson has said if we all pray at the same time for the same thing, the world would change. Bali is a place where this powerful statement is a reality, just on a smaller scale. The island is 93% Hindu Dharma, a religion of pure love and respect for every living being, plant and spirit. The mass unified thoughts of the Balinese have created a society of happy people and guests. This island is the safest and happiest place on Earth. Disneyland is known for being the happiest place on Earth, but it takes more than clean streets and empty smiles to actually create that environment. The magic of the Island is not just for the Balinese, they gladly share it with anyone who cares to join them. Their spirit is contagious, once felt, the world suddenly changes and becomes much more simple and special. One has to experience their magic to understand what I describe. Given this, you are cordially invited to come to Bali, and grow. Below, are some simple tips about where and what do to. There is much more here for you to experience--our offering is just an appetizer. If you have any specific questions, you may email me, I shall do my best to give you an answer.

As an American, there are certain adaptations I have made not only as a gesture of respect, but to actually experience more of this magical place. By giving up my expectations and routine the day will be one of pleasant surprises! Bali does have the six out of the ten finest hotels in the world, but they are not the Bali I speak of. In these places you will indeed find perfection. The real Bali, waiting for you outside those pristine gates, is a third-world nation, with a heart and a beautiful spirit. One does have to release much of the "GRADE A" for cleanliness mentality--especially with many "Warungs" (restaurants). The food is delicious--it reminds me of Southern "soul food". The restaurants have grown up with leaps and bounds since I have been traveling here. I was fortunate my first trip to have met a friend from Jakarta who encouraged me to relax and enjoy their "makan" (food). Now I have no hesitation about eating anywhere. It will be an adjustment for first timers, but any hesitation will soon disappear and be replaced with praise for the cook!

The Bali--Burning Man connection! Like at Burning Man, Bali also is a place where every wish and thought becomes a reality. One must wish carefully here. If you are afraid of getting sick--that is exactly what will happen. If you look for friendly faces--that is what you will find. Today for example, I though to myself, wouldn't some fried bananas be nice to have---well, about 20 minutes later someone gave me a package of still hot fried bananas with caramel sauce! The Universe is strong here or maybe I am just more connected to it here as in Burning Man. I do believe that the quantity of those at peace amplifies that energy. The world is what we make it.

The plane trip to Bali is long, but with the proper medication this hyper boy sleeps right through it. I do think the plane trip keeps most from coming to Bali... and it's probably a good thing for the island is relatively small. It can take up to 32 hours to arrive in Bali, and as short as 24 hours. This is not all air time, just travel time with layovers. The actual over sea flight is about 13 coming and 11 flying back to LA. Given the length of the journey, it is best to have at least 2 week here, a month is perfect. That seems like a long time, but you work hard, and you deserve a break. If this country boy from Mississippi can do it, it is possible for you as well. Bali is a whole new world-- a world that is upside down from anything and everything you are used to. From the hot water being on the right side, to an occasional squatter toilet, oh, and to the unnecessary locks that turn the other way! This island is ready to teach you your very own lessons and comfort you during the process. The air line you choose will determine the route to Denpasar (Bali's International Airport). Be sure to ask you airline where and how long the layover(s) are; especially because you will cross the International Date Line---that still confuses me! Also, it is so important for you to drink lots of water during the trip... ask the attendants to please refill your water bottle several times. Drink when you are not thirsty. This will help you avoid jet lag, if any.

Once you arrive in Bali, life will suddenly smell differently. The aroma here is difficult to describe because it is unique. As I think about it for you, it is somewhat like a mixture of frangipani, incense and curry. The thick, high humidity must carry these smells to the airport! Smell is an accurate word, but perhaps too strong--because it is not a bad smell, simply different.

If you do not have reservations or someone to pick you up, you will need transport. This will be your first adventure. All of a sudden, you deplane and boom, welcome to the in the Southern Hemisphere---a whole new world. Even for us it is still a jolt. Many people will want to help you, and this can feel claustrophobic--after all it has been a long journey to this point. It is important to just say Tidak, Terimah Kasih. (No, thank you). Then find your way outside the airport to Blue Bird Taksi (light blue color), they are always metered, and speak English. If you do decide to let some of the boys carry your luggage a tip of $1 will be fine, and actually generous. They will want $5, but that is too much, trust me. You will need to change some money, I recommend, stopping by a money changer (located everywhere) to change $20 US in to their currency, Rupiah. Once you are in your hotel or home-stay, you can go to a bank (BCA has the best rate for exchange) and take out money directly from your account (Passport required). ATM's are becoming readily available, too, but there is a limit how much a machine can disperse per transaction. We recommend you go inside the bank and make a withdrawal from your account. We usually travel with $400-700 US dollars, just in case of an Emergency. So, you have your Rupiah and a taksi, it's time to find a hotel. We always start our trip at the beach! The Kuta, Legian, Seminyak Villages are perfect for a first stop... and close to the Airport!

Denpasar--Ngurah Rai International Airport, this is where your plane will land in Bali. It not a place to stay, one will find it to be dirty and full of beggars. The airport itself is nice, but you'll want to go to another area. Once you are settled, you may choose to come back to the fabric market here. The prices are all very affordable, but this area is full of traffic and is just not a beautiful place to be. It is safe though, and certainly a good place to come for budget shoppers.

Kuta, Legian, Seminyak--These three destinations, all near the airport and there is no real distinguishing landmarks to differentiate between them. . Kuta is the most affordable, Legian is twice as expensive and Seminyak is three times more expensive. They all share the same beach, the world famous Kuta Beach. This beach is perfect for surfing, swimming and lounging around on the beach. It's also wonderful for sunsets and smart cocktails. Most of our favorite places are in Seminyak (and near or on the beach!), which is minutes away from Kuta or Legian. We have stayed in many hotels here and have a recommendation for you. We believe that everything on our list is special and a good value for your money.

-Restaurants-
• Gado Gado--International and Stylish, dress up and treat yourself!
• KuDeTa--International and Stylish---our favorite place for brunch and to spend the day
• Warung 96--Balinese, Traditional, live Balinese music and delicious affordable food
• LaLuciola--International--beautiful view of the beach, great brunch
• JP's Warung--Italian-Balinese, casual, delicious and somewhat affordable
• Cafe Warisan--French Balinese, we lunch here when working
• Mykonos--100% Greek, perfect place to take your new friends!
• Antique--Modern Thai, smart, stylish, sophisticated, slightly pricey, but worth it.
• Tekor Bali--Balinese-Indonesian food, International, affordable, delicious, affordable, great ocean breeze and lovely staff
• Cin Cin--The Restaurant of the Puri Cendana Hotel, they have theme nights and put on a wonderful Balinese style party!
• Gateway to India--Absolutely Amazing... always packed, for a reason

-Hotels-
• Puri Cendana--One of our favorite moderately priced hotels. Comfortable rooms, lovely gardens and pool, very easy walking distance to the beach. The Puri Cendana also has friendly and helpful staff. It's a great place all around!
• Puri Duyung--Small hotel with lovely pool; located in the heart of the trendy clubs and warungs.

-Clubs-
• Q-Bar----trendy, expensive, mostly gay but all are welcome, best music in Bali
• Double Six Disco---Dancing till the sun comes up! 2:00 am - 7:00am, Bungie Cord Jumping, Swimming, Spectacular Sun rises, mostly Trance music
• KuDeTa---Dinner, Drinks, Cuban Cigar Bar, the Jakartan jet set crowd and oh so fun!
• A Bar---relaxing, Drinks, live band---Absolute Vodka theme
• Liquid--funky music and cocktails
• The Living Room---stylish, expensive, relax in a rice field--bring mosquito repellent!

This year we were introduced to I. Wayan Gejor who is similar to a natural Raki Master. He has no formal training, nor does he claim to offer anything more than a "special" massage. He truly is in touch with some serious Universal Energy. He has an amazing ability to know exactly what ailes your body and he moves it from it's current location to the top of your head, then channels it through his body then out. His massages are an amazing experience and worth the trip to Padang Bai alone! He also leaves a mark in between the eyebrows, that disappears in a few days, but is some sort of protection mark. My first "special massage" with Wayan moved me to tears, it was a spiritual cleansing and physical rebalance--moreover, a grounding experience. During the massage, I suppose I went into something like a trance, because I looked up at one point and one hand was on my stomach, the other reaching to the sky--with yellow all around him. It was powerful. While in Padang Bai, I would introduce other new friends to him, and they too would have unique powerful experiences. I feel blessed having met and experienced his love and powers. Thank you, Wayan.

-Hotels-
• Puri Rai Hotel, the best in Town... swimming pool, wonderful staff, view of the Ocean, $15 - 35 per night
• Padang Bai Beach Inn (home stay)--simple living, wonderful staff, no luxury except American toilet! $2 - 6.50 per night
• Zen Inn--very smart, but haunted, $5-12 per night. (we don't stay there, but some do and love it--it is haunted!)

-Restaurants-
• Ozone Cafe---great Balinese, International, back-packer place, delicious, affordable food
• Puri Rai Restaurant--good food, spiced down for 'da tourists.
• Made's Warung---great Balinese food, good pizza and movies at night
• Warung Pantal Ayu--delicious down right cheap Balinese food, and it is literally on the beach

The Royal Family of Ubud is the only Royal Family left in Bali that is thriving. They have always spared little expense for ceremonies and have long supported the arts. It is no wonder that they are the center of culture and fine arts in Bali. The King has no governmental power, yet he continues to have influence in his former Kingdom. We had the opportunity to spend a long weekend at the Palace. The funniest thing though, we actually became part of the exhibit..for our villa was next to the Kings Villa and part of the tour sponsored by the Palace. So, we would wake up to a lovely breakfast, served on our terrace, and in mid-bite have our photo snapped... it was a hoot! (We now know why the Royal Family would only come out at night!) During the day we would ride our bicycles around town to escape the madness of those cameras (Hello Madonna!). The tours are over at 4, that was the time we had tea, a shower, and a drink (in that order!) before we would attend the various dances by the Royal performers. We enjoyed the time on the terrace after the tours---the King too, he would hold Court on his terrace. We met the King, Queen and their son the Prince--each on different occasions. I was so proud of myself for knowing conversational Balinese, because one always speaks to Royalty in THEIR language. The Queen and I became surprisingly friendly and she offered me an opportunity to buy some of the Kings hand made sarongs and sonkets---which I did. As we were leaving she called me to her and gave us two of the Kings sashes to thank us for our time with them. I was charmed.

-Hotels-
• The Royal Villas (Puri Senak Agung) --Stay in the guest house of Ubud's Royal Family. Experience Traditional Balinese Luxury $50- $100 per night
• The Cendana Resort -- Two swimming pools, wonderful spa and mud baths, and lovely staff, $45-$75 per night
• The Komaneka--Five Star Resort, Luxury by any standard, Villa's available with private swimming pool, excellent service, $150 - $300 per night
• Masih Bungalow---charming "home-stay", free coffee all day! hot water, and a wonderful place to stay, no luxury, just simple living. $5-10 per night

-Restaurants-
• Cafe Luna---the best bakery in Bali, Four levels, Sunday brunch (don't miss), typically appetizers tend to be better than the meals (Sunday brunch is the exception)
• Lemak--International, modern decor, stylish and good food
• Mosaic---International "fusion", stylish, expensive, a treat for sure
• Cafe Wayan---sit in a Bongon (little Balinese House) and have dinner in the lovely forest garden
• Terrazo--across from the Royal Palace, delicious, and worth the price
• The Lotus Garden--dine in the Royal Water Garden, see occasional cultural performances, listen to the Gamelan (Balinese orchestra) rehearsals , be sure to sit outdoors--Japanese style
• Mai~Mai
---lovely restaurant on a rice paddy, also the owners are gracious and not only are they knowledgable about Balinese culture, but they are happy to share it!

Lovina is another of our favorite places... when we are in here it is our favorite place, and when we are in Padang Bai--that is our favorite place. Lovina (slightly larger than Padang Bai)is a small quiet village on a black sand beach... and the home of Bali's famous dolphins . Near by, Singaraja (Lion King) is the Regency, and features a day market for food, clothing, cd's, vcd's and dvd (for $1). The multi-media is all copies and none are premium quality, but hey they are a dollar! We adore renting bicycles here, the land is pretty flat and one can ride all day! It is even possible to take a day trip via bike to the Hot Springs in the foot hills to the East. The Hot Springs are volcanically heated aquifers that are just divine--there is nothing like it! Also near Lovina are the Gigit Waterfalls, which are up the mountain. It's best to go there by car or motorbike, they are cool fresh rain water springs from the mountains. Another activity is to hire one of the colorful fishing boats to see the dolphins. It requires an early start (like 6:30 am). The experience is somewhat funny--about a dozen boats chase the dolphins around---it seems like a big game for the dolphins. They are beautiful blue, black and gray dolphins and smaller than one would think. They are such free spirits! There is also amazing snorkeling, (again, one must hire a boat to get to the coral reef). It is worth doing! You may also see the amazingly fast flying fish on the way! Lovina does not have an exceptional beach for frolic. It's black sand beach can be hot and usually has no waves, but it is wonderful for sunsets. We like to stay at the Hotel Rini, because they have a pool!

-Hotels-
• Hotel Rini--- Best Value in BALI! --- nice, clean, contemporary Balinese rooms, comfortable beds, beautiful garden setting, private, delicious pool side restaurant (great for gin and tonic and a dip!). We both think it is a wonderful place! $10 - $25 per night
• Barcelona Home-Stay, --- One bungalow, private, nice, great food, $5-7 per night with breakfast

-Restaurants-
• Barcelona Restaurant--- our favorite restaurant in Bali. The food is not only enak (delicious) it is affordable, beautifully presented in Balinese style. Kasih and Ketut are it's owners and we adore them.
• Sea Breeze Cafe --- Near the giant dolphin statue, it's a wonderful sunset bar
• Kokatua --- On the Jalan (street) leading to the beach--a great spot for people watching and nescafe milkshakes!

PACKING--What to take for a holiday in Bali??? First timers, bring too much and never wear what they have schlepped 10,000+ miles. Why? Bali has literally thousands of shops to buy clothes. You will find anything from a few dollars to what ever you want to spend. Luxurious linen, sporty cotton, stylish japanese t-shirts, elegant silks and cottons from India.. and much more! One does not need to bring anything but one comfort outfit, basic toiletry items, plus any necessary medication. We recommend that you pack any clothes you no longer wear to donate to the people of Bali. One would never know how poor they are behind those gorgeous smiles, but they are. Your donation or gift of clothes will absolutely send your spirit soaring---they will be thrilled. They especially love anything American. Also ladies, any make-up you no longer use will be highly prized. The plus--plus side of this, you will have lots of free space in your luggage to pack your new clothes and treasures from the island of the gods. It is a good, good thing.

MARKET SHOPPING In Bali--Truly, "the art of the deal"! No matter where you are in Bali you will find many of the same type of items. The quality, presentation and price will vary. Try to avoid impulse shopping--take a few days to see what is available and to compare. The art of the deal is when you find something interesting and ask the price , the price they will offer you is twice is much as they will accept. (Americans and Japanese are ALWAYS told the highest prices) Here are some simple tips to bargain.

1. Everyone pays too much for their first item--remember this is part of the fun of bargaining. Just learn from this and laugh.
2. Street and Beach Vendors are willing to take less than a shop owner. Be conscious of the quality of the item.
3. Buying multiple items will help you negotiate a better deal.
4. The initial asking price is about twice as much as they are willing to take. With multiple buying the price goes down even further.
5. Be prepare to say no, thank you and walk away. Do not give in! They will always ask for a "little more for good luck!" but will generally meet your price. Just be fair and always gracious.
6. There are hundreds of shops that sell the same type of market goods, if you do not make a deal at one shop--there will be another opportunity.
7. Boutique type shops have fixed prices, only in big quantities will you received a 10% discount.
8. When shopping take a small calculator, they will have one, but you will need one too! Use the calculator to show the seller your price, if you need privacy. The International language boils down to using a calculator!

Always start your bidding at less than half of the offered price. They will ALWAYS ask for more. Stick to your guns. Be prepared to say "no, thank you" (tidak, terima kasih) and walk out. Often, their response will be "you bankrupt me!", and they will ask for "a little more for good luck", and/or ask you "ok, last price". If you remain firm, you will achieve the right price. Just remember if they do not accept your price, there will be someone else who will--probably two doors down! There are many boutique shops that have fixed prices and these will always have signs and priced merchandise.

SCHEDULING a holiday in Bali--When planning a time to come to Bali, you may want to consider the lunar cycle. Their calendar is unlike ours and is based on the cycles of the moon. If you are here during a full moon, there will be many ceremonies to see. The Balinese have wonderfully elaborate ceremonies for the cycles of the moon, even the new moon. To check the lunar cycles here is a website (www.lunarcycles.com). Also realize June, July and August are Bali's peak tourist season. This means, the island is packed and I would definitely make reservations for accommodations. We prefer to travel during the off-season (December-April). This is their rainy season, but the rain drops are warm and it's never been a problem.

VISITING A TEMPLE--Temples are always open, there is more activity during a ceremony, but you are welcome into their ceremonies. You must wear a sarong and a sash into the temple, and have your shoulders covered with shirt, or fabric. It is also appropriate to wear something to cover your forehead, but not necessary. Women are not allowed while menstruating. There are temples everywhere, the mother temple is Besake on the East side of the Island. In addition some other large temples worth seeing are Tanalot (Temple on the Sea), Mt. Agung (The highest and most sacred mountain), Kintamani, and the Monkey Temple. There is no need to be nervous about experiencing a Temple, they welcome everyone with love and peace.

LANGUAGE---some helpful, courtesy words and phrases (Indonesian)

• Thank you -- Terima Kasih (Terry-Ma-Ka-she)
• No, Thank you -- Tidac Terima Kasih (Tee Dack, Terry-Ma-Kah-see)
• What is your name? -- Seapa Nama Ana (Sea-apa Nam-a Anna)
• My name is Steve -- Nama Saya Steve (Nam-a Say-a )
• How are you? -- Apa Kabar (Ap-a Ka-bar)
• I am fine -- Bike Bike
• Good -- Bagose (Bah-goose)
• Delicious --enak (e-nack)
• Good Morning -- Selamat Pagi (Sa-la-mot Pah-gee)
• Good Mid Day -- Selamat Siang (Sa-la-mot Sea-yang)
• Good Late Day -- Selamat Sore (Sa-la-mot Sore-ay)
• Good Evening -- Selamat Malam (Sa-la-mot Ma-lam)
• Good Sleep -- Selamat Tidur (Sa-la-mot Tee-dour)
• Good drink -- Selamat Minum (Sa-la-mot Me-noom)
• Good eat -- Selamat Makan (Sa-la-mot Mah-kan)
• Good travels -- Selamat Jelan (Sa-la-mot Jah-lan
• leisure walk -- Jelan Jelan (Jah-lan Jah-lan)
• street and to walk -- Jelan (Jah-lan)
• Beautiful Woman --Cantik (Chan-Teak)
• Handsome Man -- Gontong (Gon-tung)
• Please -- Silakan (Silicon)
• One More -- Satu Lagi (Sa-too La-gi)
• Two More --Dua Lagi (Dua La-gi)
• See you later -- Sampai jumpa (Som Pay Jump-a)
• See you later, tomorrow -- Sampai jumpa besok (Som Pay Jump-a, Bee-sock)
• No worries -- Tedac Apa Apa (Tee Dack ap-a ap-a)
• Pura -- Temple

Most travelers that visit Bali are touched spiritually. Be ready for your spirit to evolve and your life to change. Any specific questions, you may email Steve or Michael. We are happy to help you.