So what is it about Bali

Millions have been there from famous artist, writers, singers, explorers, wanderers, actors and all walks of life. They have travelled from all over world to this island paradise. Some stay a few days, some weeks and some never leave. Many return several times throughout their lives, bringing their children and grandchildren making Bali their regular holiday spot, but let’s be real just as many never go back again.

The nay sayers would probably describe it as hot, humid, smelly, dirty, too many people, too many trying to sell you stuff, too slow, too busy, too this and too that…’no I don’t want a f….. t-shirt, bemo, massage or jiggy jig’. But the yay sayers just say yay!

So why do I love it? There is an essence, a vibe, a feeling of warmth, a sense that words cannot describe. Many tourist will say ‘the Balinese are friendly’ but I’ve found many friendly people around the world. Maybe its more the big welcoming smiles, the desire to assist you anyway they can and the ‘I’ll take you to my home’ generosity. But it’s more, it’s more inherent. Deeply religious and not just on Sundays, the Balinese believe that ‘all that they do and all that they have’ is connected to the gods that guide, teach, heal and nourish them throughout their life and into the next life supported by the fundamental premise of kama.

The offerings ‘banten’ made several times a day, are the visual reminder of how seriously the Balinese take their religion and how it permeates throughout them. I do not claim to be an expert on balinese culture. There are many good books that will help you learn more however what I do know is how I feel when I’m there. Relaxed, warm, free, happy, serene and replenished able to cope with anything.