SE Asia - Ubud to Jimbaran

 

Bali, Day 5, January 13

Ubud to Jimbaran Bay, Bali

Again, we had an early start to the day because we couldn't sleep past 4:00. This was a transfer day so we got everything packed for the ride to Jimbaran Bay. Since it had been raining we altered the schedule and went first to visit Taman Ayun, a 17th Century Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walk around the area was very peaceful.

The second stop, with the rain stopped, was at the Monkey Forest, which is a sanctuary for hundreds of Balinese grey monkeys. Those who wanted could buy some bananas to feed a monkey. The monkey would jump on the person's shoulder to peel and eat the banana. We chose to just watch others. The walk through the forest brought us to a temple area where we were dressed in a sarong to enter. This was for cultural purposes and not religious. Further down the trail was a huge banyan tree, which was growing up from a deep crevasse. Since it was still cloudy, the temperature was relatively cool but humid.

We drove on to a village where we were to visit a children's dance school. As we walked down the small road to the school we learned there was part of a wedding ceremony taking place in the area. We were delighted to watch the process and saw the bride and groom walking from one home to another. Their rituals take several days so we just saw a bit, but it included them receiving a blessing. Then we watched some of the family preparing food for the reception.

Finally at the dance school, the young girls were waiting to perform for us. I was glad I had gone to the show the night before because it helped me understand the dance moves. These girls train from a young age. Eventually some of our group joined the girls trying out some of the steps. That was difficult and pretty funny.

Then on to our next hotel in Jimbaran Bay and the Keraton Hotel, which sits on the beach. After settling in we walked with Erika along the beach and sat for a while having a juice drink and watching the surf and people. We then went back to the hotel restaurant for dinner. Erika and I had pizza and Paul had a salad with chicken.

Before going to bed I went to the lobby to check for messages and it was good to hear from home.

There was a real thunderstorm during the night with heavy rain, which let up about 5:00.
That's it for now. Grace and Paul