Bali, Indonesia
There were just so many temples here. We already shortlisted the places to go to and yet we almost missed not going to the beach, which the island is known for. Here are some pictures from my visit in November 2010:
This is in breathtaking Uluwatu, the southernmost point of Bali. That is a barong and keris dance we watched at sunset depicting Rama and Sita’s story through a chant. That’s Rama on the left and Sita wearing the pink outfit. My favorite is the white monkey, Rama’s emissary, who entertained us while waiting for his turn. He just showed up unexpectedly amongst us in the crowd, even taking time to pose and smile for the cameras. He’s the coolest character!
Below is another favorite temple of mine dedicated to Vishnu, who is identified with water. This is in Lake Bratan which is in a high altitude place, hence the mist/clouds. I loved it here. Our guide thinks the temple is made up of “Dora hair”. 
Bali is so full of culture and life. Maybe someday I’d be able to go back.
M
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Sharing pieces of advice on the places I’ve been to.
I. Donsol, Sorsogon, Philippines
The place is synonymous to butandings or whalesharks.
Do Don’t
- Go from February to March Go during the Holy Week
- Book early (Amor Resort is great!) Settle for any resort
- Arrive in Legaspi early in the morning Cram everything in 1 day
- Pass by Cagsawa Ruins & Daraga church Head straight for Donsol
- Walk by the road Walk by the seashore
- Go to the Butanding Info Office early Go the day you intend to dive
- Pay for fees & watch orientation early Join everyone in paying
- Get a guide a day before (Jerry is great!) Scramble to find a guide
- Watch the Fireflies tour the night before Get the earliest Fireflies trip
- Go to the boat landing at 7 am Go at a later time (less sharks)
- Relax – they are enormous but gentle Be afraid
- Keep diving and spend as much time Wait for the next shark
- Swim with friends Swim near friends (get kicked)
- Bring an underwater camera
Enjoy the wonderful experience! Time Magazine Asia wouldn’t name it “Best Animal Interaction” (in 2004) if it wasn’t this amazing.
I actually hope to return one day.
See you there!
M
P.S. Below is a picture taken by my friend Jane at Amor Resort when we arrived there midday of March 20, 2010. It was a nice feeling knowing the whalesharks were so close by!
