First Impressions

Three words...Bali is ALIVE! It’s been about seven weeks since my husband and I arrived in Bali. As expected, we were in awe of the clear beaches and perfect weather. The locals are kind, the temples are stunning, and lush green nature is everywhere. So much of it is precisely what you would see on a postcard. Bali is also a place with poverty, trash, and an increasing wave of westernized influence. I was in shock to see the abundance of fast food restaurants, American clothing outlets, and sexual innuendo souvenirs influenced by Aussie culture. Behind stunning views of open fields and blissful waterfalls were piles and piles of trash. The contrast was striking.

Our first temple experience was met with hundreds of other tourists. Locals aggressively hustled to sell merchandise before we entered what is considered one of the most sacred places on the island. Each person with their iPhone out ready to snap the same picture (with no one in the shot of course). It was fascinating to see how much of Bali is now centered around catering to tourism. At one of the waterfall attractions, there were roughly a dozen crafted photo areas such as infinity swings and love nests, all set up take the perfect Instagram photo. We made a trip up to Ubud, and it looked like an actual shot of Southern California. There were more expats than locals, all wearing bohemian attire, and all eating at vegan restaurants. Like with most tourism, you will not see locals engaged in this lifestyle because it is clear the "vibe", and the price tags, were designed for westernized expats.

This is absolutely not to say that I did not enjoy these parts of Bali. I really did. I, just like so many other tourists, took photos and still felt awe in the presence of these ancient temples. There is a reason tourism becomes what it is. I think the question to ask is "What am I here for?". It's evident that many tourists only come to Bali for the massive beach clubs and trendy restaurants. They are there to Instagram the perfect coffee or make a yoga pose in front of a scenic view. They will spend their entire stay without experiencing Indonesian culture. For me, this was not the case. I wanted to immerse myself in the local lifestyle. After understanding this, my husband and I have made it a point to really engage in the community of Bali. Some parts are certainly not as aesthetically beautiful, but there is still so much beauty none the less.

First of all, if you are a local, you ride a motorbike. There are always hundreds and hundreds of bikes weaving in and out of narrow streets, following what looks like no particular set of road rules. We quickly realized that this is indeed the best way to experience the island. Traveling on the bike throws you into the chaos and makes you take in all of your surroundings. The streets in the central parts of Kuta and Canggu are filled with laundry services, hole in the wall cafes, "fotocopy" shops, and convenient stores. When you wind off the main roads, you are immediately hit with the sharp, delicious smells of the local warungs (local Balinese food spots). These warungs are often times the backside of the locals’ homes, where they cook right then and there for you, using fresh spices and ingredients as if it were a home-cooked meal.

Outside of the main cities, Bali becomes a land of breathtaking scenery. The landscape is filled with green rice fields and a jungle of palm trees. The Hindu influence also becomes more apparent, as you pass countless ornate shrines and statues. And the flowers...there are so many luminous flowers! Walking through streets of fallen flowers feels as if you are passing through a recent wedding celebration. While Bali's nature creates a dreamlike paradise, it's really the people who have made it special. The Balinese are the most pleasant, genuine people. My husband and I are greeted by locals every time we walk down our street. They are so quick to engage in conversation and show real interest in our lives and what brings us here. The pleasantries and happy vibes of the people have made the transition to a new country a refreshing experience.

I believe the most remarkable part of Bali is the spirituality it holds. Located in the heart of many homes are extraordinary shrines for Hindu worship. These unique works of art are built in open aired places within closed walls. The walls alone are a mark of beauty, carved with intricate designs. Inside the shrine, you will find stone statues and religious offerings for the Gods. These beautifully crafted offerings are made with care and dedication every day by Balinese women. The offerings, called canangs, are delicate, woven baskets filled with flowers and a stick of incense; a gift for the gods. When you look around, you realize that these stunning offerings are just about everywhere, accenting Bali's already vibrant beauty with yet more bright colors and heady perfume. I am not personally religious, but I admire the craft and delicacy that comes from the people who find balance in their life through creation and worship. Coming from a westernized, privileged background, I am humbled by the day to day interactions I have made with these people in Bali.

Just like any other country, the increase in secularism is apparent. While smaller villages hold traditional values, the younger generation has established a modernized movement. We have met local fashion designers, trip-hop DJs, graffiti artists, men covered in tattoos, and women rocking trendy, revealing clothes. Although many of these younger people have withdrawn from the customary practices of their heritage, they have held tight to the value of mindfulness. There is a peaceful aura in Bali that makes you feel present in every moment, and so much of that comes from the people, both young and old.

So after about seven weeks here I can say that Bali has been an awakening experience. Instead of seeing a million places in a week and documenting it all through the validation of Instagram, I am simply living. I am enjoying sunsets, eating at local spots, and meeting new, fantastic people.

Bali is alive.

#travel #Bali #Asia #lifestyle