CULTURE & TRAVEL - Bali Indonesia
Bali, Indonesia - The Island of Gods
Words by Kimatni D. Rawlins
Welcome to “The Island of Gods” in the magnificent Republic of Indonesia for an immersive vacation to focus on spiritual awareness and living in the presence of Mother Nature’s serenity. Located between Lombak and Java, Bali is a majestic land consisting of volcanic mountains, mesmerizing topography, stunning flora, and heartwarming people. The tropical climate -- commingled with deep ravines, hillside rice fields, enchanting waterfalls, and delectable Balinese fare -- has created an indelible imprint that will remain with me indefinitely.
My wife, Misa, shared my lifelong dream of visiting Bali, so we decided to manifest our intentions and make reality come true. Deciding on accommodations, whether it's a resort, condo, or villa, is always pivotal. Since Misa is a Platinum member with SPG, we zeroed in on
The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali,
which is conveniently located 10 kilometers from the Ngurah Rai International Airport (resembles an ancient temple) and close to the capital city of Denpasar, the main gateway to the island. The luxuriant 5-star family resort is nestled on white sandy beaches with beautiful vistas of the Indian Ocean. The Westin was perfect for enhancing our constellation of wedding commemorations.
The lengthy
journey from Dulles International Airport outside of Washington, D.C., was comforted by upgrades in San Francisco and Singapore before landing on the enchanting island of Bali.
After passing through the main gate of Nusa Dua, you will immediately feel like a spirit trekking through a time when nature ruled all. Upon arrival to The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, we were greeted with a warm welcome inclusive of traditional music and hostesses dressed in authentic Balinese attire. The paragon of civility from the staff of Indonesia’s leading family resort was amazing during the entirety of our stay. Though we left the kids at home, the Westin Family Kids Club would have been perfect for keeping them occupied as we witnessed with other families partaking in this specific amenity.
“Vacation is to relax the mind, not the body,” is one of my key mantras when touring. Misa and I initiated each morning with strength training and running while exploring the sites along Nusa Dua Beach, such as the "Water Blow," where the Indian Ocean sends strong waves crashing on the jagged limestone edges of the cliff.
For those that want to venture off property but stay in proximity
to Nusa Dua, there are a few options. You can visit the religious complex of Puja Mandala, the Geger Temple, or the Museum Pasifika. Or you may want to take in the Dvdan musical show, shop at the Bali Collection outdoor mall, or spend time at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park to delve into Bali’s rich history.
For extended excursions, look to visit places like Kintamani Lake and Volcano, the region of Ubud for the Tegenungan Falls, and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, which 600 Balinese long-tailed monkeys call home. Don't forget Earth Cafe for vegan treats or the endless array of Ubud shops for cultural keepsakes. Here we also picked up exquisite, hand-crafted jewelry from Prapen, which specializes in centuries-old techniques passed down generationally.
We also biked Bali's hidden beauty in the countryside where the locals dwell. I even met and synergistically bonded with a High Priest in one of the Temple villages. Though we didn't speak each other's language, ideas were exchanged by way of love, respect, and mutual understanding of each's principles.
Energy from Bali life comes from music, dance, and spiritual devotion. Hence, another compelling and transformative spectacle to witness is a Kecak dance show, whereas the music is formed by the chorus of more than 100 men called the Gamelan Suara. It tells of the legend of Prince Rama and his wife Sita as part of the Hindu epic Ramayana.
After leaving Nusa Dua and our home away from home, we headed to the towns of Kuta and Seminyak to explore more eclectic Balinese sites. Collectively, the memories from Bali and our various journeys will remain for eternity. Remember, life is for the living, so continue to travel far and wide!
Sadly, calamity befell the island of Lombak in the form of numerous earthquakes after we left. I want to extend my condolences to the families who lost loved ones. So sad to hear that such a magical place could fall to the despair of the same Mother Nature that brings us life and vitality. Our prayers are with you, Indonesia. One love!
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