Travelogue – Beautiful Bali (June 2003)

Following some business meetings in Australia, and
prior to meetings in Hong Kong, I found that I had a
free weekend, and decided to return to Bali. This
unique and beautiful tropical island is nestled at the
heart of the 4000-mile wide Indonesian archipelago.
This uniquely Hindu island of three million
inhabitants, set in the middle of Muslim nation of
Indonesia, is a cultural gem.

I had visited Bali 6½ years ago, and was eager to
return. I was concerned with how this island’s
tourism-dependent economy had been devastated by the
terrorist attack at a nightclub in the seaside resort
town of Kuta last October. Quite simply, I wanted to
throw some of my tourist dollars their way.

Given my short time on the island (some 50 hours), I
decide to concentrate my time between the northern
coastline town of Lovina and the southern resort town
of Nusa Dua. I had read that Lovina was famous for
the playful dolphins that beckon eager tourists out
into the open sea for sunrise cruises. Being the
dolphin fanatic that I am, I knew this was a
pilgrimage that must be pursued!

After the 530am wake-up call, we assembled at the
beach to set off at 6am in the motorized outrigger
canoes. A whole platoon of boats headed out in search
of dorsal fins and breaching cetaceans. After about
45 minutes in the placidly calm offshore waters, some
dolphins were spotted. The boats turned and raced in
hot pursuit. One of the things I have always admired
about dolphins is that they can’t be possessed. The
best you can hope for is to enjoy the brief moments
when they surface and frolic at the surface. The
playful, carefree attitude of these remarkable
creatures never ceases to amaze me. Though the
encounter was brief, the memories are lasting.

Once back on shore, I collected my bags and set out
for the central part of the island. I wanted to
return to the Artisan town of Ubud – to again gaze at
the amazing artistry of the locals. Balinese art is
so expressive and beautiful. I fondly recalled the
woodcarvings I had purchased during my last visit to
Bali, and was eager to add to my collection.
Unfortunately, a number of shops and galleries in Ubud
were closed, due to the lack of tourists. The locals
hope that summer will yield a return to previous
visitor levels.

Shopping completed, I ventured further south, to the
resort town of Nusa Dua. A beautiful (and very
affordable) Sheraton resort awaited my arrival. I
felt somewhat bad as I visited some more shops close
by. I had already completed my shopping, but I could
sense how desparately these people were to make a
sale. Their livelihoods have been shattered by the
ruthless actions of some zealots last fall. Such a
shame.

I felt very safe during this visit to Bali.
Stepped-up security is evident, but not overly
intrusive. In spite of the unfortunate events of a
few short months ago, the spirit of Bali lives on.
The people of Bali are warm, friendly and hospitable.
They are eager to share their beautiful island,
tropical beaches and rich cultural traditions with
tourists. This trip reaffirmed Bali as being one of
my favorite destinations in Asia.

Don’t write off this island. It’s unique and special
cultural offering is amazing. Discover. Experience.
Bali!


Happy Travels!

Mark