Surfing Spot

Balinese Dances

2009-05-31T18:21:00.000-07:00

Dance and Drama
The lifestyles of Balinese people is expressed in their dance. Not only do we learn about the Balinese religion from their dance creations but also we can come to understand the flow of cultural events and activities that belong to everyday life. We can discover Balinese attitudes, how they look at nature, and how they regard their fauna and flora.

The very essence of the Balinese culture is dance and drama, which is performed during temple festivals and in ceremonies. The dances performed in hotels is a small fraction of what Balinese dance has to offer.

Balinese dance goes as far back as Balinese written history with much of the heritage originating from Java. Ironically, as a result of the Islamisation of Java, the Javanese culture has disappeared but has still survived in Bali and has become part of classical Balinese culture.

Balinese dance cannot be separated from religion. Even the dances for the tourists are preceded by many dancers praying at their family shrine for taksu (inspiration) from the gods.

Dance fulfils a number of specific functions: It may be a channel for visiting gods or demons, the dancers acting as a sort of living repository. It may be as a welcome for visiting gods. It may be entertainment for visiting gods.

The typical posture of Balinese dance has the legs half-bent, the torso shifted to one side with the elbow raised and lowered in a gesture that displays suppleness of the hands and fingers. The torso is shifted in symmetry with the arms. If the arms are to the right, the shifting is to the left and vice-versa.

The Ramayana
The story of the Ramayana greatly inspires the Balinese. Many of their dances are based on this great story which is often depicted in a ballet.

The Balinese version differs from the Indian Version. It is told that Rama, as the first son in a family, was the heir to the Ayodya kingdom but the king's second wife, through her treachery forced the king to crown her own son as the King of Ayodya and asked him to send Rama and his wife into exile.

Because he respected his father, Rama went with his wife called Sita and his beloved younger brother, Laksmana into a forest called Dandaka. Usually the first act of the ballet depicts Rama and entourage in the heart of the Dandaka forest.

Rahwana, the evil King of Alengka, enchanted by the beauty of Sita, wanted to have her as his concubine. He sent one of his knights, Marica, to temp Sita by transforming himself into a golden deer. Sita, captivated by her curiosity, asked her husband to catch the golden deer.

The next act explains how Rama succeeds in hunting the golden deer but as his arrow struck the golden deer it transformed back into Marica. Meanwhile Sita heard a distant cry for help. Laksmana, who had been asked by his brother to look after his sister-in-law, tried to explain to her that the cry sounds very suspicious. But nevertheless, Sita was convinced that someone was in need of help. So she sent Laksmana to look for this person and to help whoever it is. In his desperate attempt, Laksmana asked Sita, no matter what would happen, to stay inside the guarding circle that he created.

Rahwana, knowing that Sita was protected by the circle transforms himself into an old priest. He approaches Sita and asks her for a drink. Sita, without hesitation, extends her hands beyond the circle to hand him the water. Rahwana takes the advantage, snatches her hand and takes her to his palace in Alengka.

On the way, Rahwana encounters a mighty eagle Jatayu. By every means possible, Jatayu tries to rescue Sita from the evil king but fails and is killed by Rahwana.

Rama and Laksmana find the dying Jatayu who tells them the whole story of what had happened to Sita.

In his attempt to release his wife, Rama seeks the help from Hanoman and his monkey soldiers. Hanoman finds Sita in the palace's garden. She had been asked by Rahwana to marry him but she would rather die. Hanoman convinces Sita that he is Rama's messenger and talks of a plan.

Rahwana catches Hanoman and burns his tail but in so doing, set fire to the palace's' gardens. The pyrotechnics can be very impressive.

In the last act, Rama and his troops are depicted attacking Rakhwana's palace. Finally Rama manages to kill Rahwana and therefore takes his wife back to his country.

The abridged version ends here but if you see paintings in Kamasan style based on the Ramayana story, you would notice that in the last of serialised paintings, Sita had to prove she was still pure, and had not been tainted by Rahwana, by plunging herself into a fire. Because of her faith in her husband, God saved her from the fire and she lived happily ever after with Rama.

The Indian version reveals a very different ending with Sita saved by Mother Earth, never returning to her husband.

The Welcome Dance - Tari Panyembrama
The Panyembrama is probably the most popular Balinese social dance. In keeping with its meaning in the Balinese Language, Panymebrama is frequently staged to welcome guests of honour who are making a visit to this islands of the Gods.

Four or eight young girls bearing a bokor, a heavily engraved bowl made from silver or aluminium, laden with flowers, dance expressively to the accompaniment of vibrant gamelan music.

During the dance, the flowers are scattered over the guest or audience as an expression of welcome. The Panymebrama has taken many of its movements from temple dances, such as the Rejang Dance, Pendet and Gabor, which are considered sacred and performed exclusively for God. There is an analogy between the secular Panymebrama and the religious temple dances, as all these dances are welcoming dances, the difference being in the place in which they are stage.

The Tari Panymebrama comes under the Balinese classification of Legong (individual dances), because it has no connection with other dances, has no story and was specifically created for welcoming and entertainment purposes.

The hospitality and friendliness conveyed through the smiles of the Panymebrama girls, charms the audience and so is very fitting as an opening for a show, etc.

The Yudapati Dance
Yudapati is a dance which depicts a male character but is performed by female dancers. The word Yudapati is derived from Yuda which means war and Pati which means death. The dance represents the kamikaze warrior in defending the truth. The dance was created in 1987. It is based on the Baris dance.

The dancer wears typical male attire, headcloth, shirt, carved leather belt and other jewellery. The reason for a male being performed by a female is that the choreographer wishes to reveal all the subtle gestures and movements in the dance by using the flexibility of a woman's body.

Male dance performed by females is called Bebancihan. A number of other dances have been created in the s style, such as Margapati, Trunajaya, Prawireng Puti, Wiranata and Danur Dara. They require masculine interpretation and expression which is quite hard for female dancers. Yudapati dance was originally performed for religious purposes but nowadays is performed regularly as a tourist attraction in some restaurants.

The Ghopala Dance
This dance provides the audience with an interesting insight into the lives of people who live in a simple and pure manner in an environment of blissful tranquillity. This dance originated in 1984 and usually performed by five boy dancers. The characters of the Ghopala dance are especially funny and will draw laughter from the audience.

The Ghopala theme depicts the world of children herdsmen who gleefully meet and play along the boundaries of rice fields while tending their cows. Their lives are filled with happiness as they dance and play in a way which highlights their individual characters. They never tire of their duties as herdsmen, faithfully defending the lives of their cattle. Thus the audience are transported to a distant time when people lived in peace and contentment, an age which had not yet become influenced by the bustle of business which now constantly steals our time.

The Semarayana Dance
As we know, there exists many art forms such as music, painting, poetry, drama, sculpture, etc. and, of course, dancing is yet another and is a popular form of expression. Artists will take a certain aspect of a medium, build on it to form another. This is the case of the Semarayana dance developed in 1994 as a subject for a thesis submitted by Ms Ni Nyoman Sri Armita to the Indonesian Arts Academy of Denpasar for her graduation.

The main character is Dewi Chandra Kirana, a princess from the kingdom of Daha who disguised herself as a male youth so she could venture out and seek her beloved who had disappeared without a trace.

With shoulder length hair, commonly used centuries ago throughout Java and Bali, the princess was unrecognisable as a female. The symbol of manhood which fooled people she met on the road, was the use of the Balinese male headgear called the Destar. It is made from material that wraps around the head and has an artistic formation of bunched material at the front.

Balinese males still use the destar when attending ceremonies. The feature of the destar is the decorative use of gold lines.

Dewi meets her beloved but due to her disguise and the fact that he is partly obscured when they meet, a fight develops. In the ensuing melee, the princess's destar is knocked from her head and her sweetheart, Raden Inu Kertapati, recognises her and rushes to her side to embrace her.

And, of course, they lived happily ever after.

The Barong Dance
The are several versions of the Barong Dance, as Bali has an abundance of myths and legends. There is Barong Ket, Barong Asu (Dog Barong), Barong Macan (Tiger Barong), Barong Bangkal (Pig Barong), Barong Gajah (Elephant Barong) and others.

One of the well known stories on which the Barong Dance is based, is the Kunti Seraya. The plot is very intriguing, showing the effect of the Gods intervention upon the people through supernatural powers.

It is told that Dewi Kunti, from the royal family of Hastinapura, was very ill. As a devotee of the Goddess Durga, she seeks help, however, the Goddess tells her that the price of health is her own son, Sahadewa. It seems that the Goddess fancied Sahadewa's young and luscious flesh for her dinner.

Dewi Kunta recovers from her illness and it is time to pay the price. She regrets her decision to pay the price but a promise is a promise. One of the Goddess's followers put her into a trance and enters her body. She becomes a terrifying creature and unconsciously beats Sahadewa mercilessly. She then takes him to an unpenetratable jungle and ties him to a tree. Later Sahadewa is given immortality by God and she overcomes the wrath of the Goddess and she is able to release her son.

The Sanghyang Jaran Dance
The unique feature of the Sanghyang Jaran dance is the courage of the dancers who in a state of Kesurupan or trance, calmly step and trample on red hot coals just as if they were walking in cold water.

This dance is believed to have the power to invite the gods or sacred spirits to enter the body of the dancers and put them in a state of trance. It dates back to the ancient Pre-Hindu culture, a time when the Balinese people strongly believed that a dance could eliminate sickness and disease. The is dance is usually performed in the fifth or sixth month of the Balinese traditional calendar as it is believe that during these particular months, the Balinese are vulnerable to all kinds of illnesses.

The War Dance - Gebug Ende
The Gebug Ende is a combination of dance and trial of prowess. It is usually performed by two to sixty male dancers who dance and fight on stage in pairs. Each dancer/fighter carries a one and a half metre long rattan stick as as a weapon and a shield called an ende. During the performance the two men try to beat one another with the stick while using the ende to protect themselves. The dance is called Gebug Ende as it literally means beating the ende or shield. One cannot afford to make mistakes in this dance as otherwise injury results.

The Gebug Ende is quite unique as it has certain rules that have to be followed by the participants. Led by a jury, this dance starts with two dancers, while the rest sit in a circle, cracking jokes and singing, while waiting their turn. The jury decide which of the two contestants loses the game and has to leave the stage. Then they will call the next men to the stage. This continues until all have had a turn. Sometimes the fight becomes very fierce and the dancers get thrown of the stage from the blows of the rattan stick. Bruises and wounds are common in this ritual.

Legong Trunajaya - The dance of love and emotions
The Trunajaya dance describes the emotions of a young man through love and passion. The dance movements reflect the theme of courtship and love.

Truna meaning 'single' and jaya meaning 'to win' immediately gives an understanding of the dance. Ironically, the dancer are young women who take on the role of young men. The women wear a 'destar' normally worn by men and an unusual loin-cloth called a 'kancut'. The Trunajaya is normally danced by a single female but sometimes two, dancing together in synchronous movements and to the mesmorotic sounds of the 'Gong Kebyar', a fast, rhythmic beat which goes in harmony to the dance. The dance was created by Wayan Wandres, from Singaraja, Northern Bali.

Balinese People

2009-05-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

The Balinese, anthropologists suggest, are an amalgamation of a number of people. The Chinese coming from the North, the Indian and the Arabs from way West, and other groups coming directly to Bali or by way of Java. Centuries past, and they become what is now known as native Balinese. They are blessed with well-developed bodies, golden-bronze skin, long, glossy black hair, and charm and mystical smiles, happily living in a rich and complete yet dynamic culture.

There are pockets of villages in which fraternization with outsiders is completely restricted, resulting in a people and a culture that the Balinese called Bali Aga (Old Bali), which may curiously be the tunnel that allows us to periscope into the culture of Bali in the past centuries.

People, Religion, and Temples

A person in Bali cannot exist in solitude. Balinese society is very community oriented. The first invitation to attend the next village meeting is delivered to you practically as a wedding present. If ignored, it will result in a warning; if three invitations are ignored, then the village may take actions against you. Since land is usually owned by the community, the village may revoke your privilege to till the land. Much of the rituals require massive effort, which usually the village shoulder in cooperatively. You will have to shoulder it yourself, should you decide to be an outcast. Along with other families in the village, you participate in meetings. You may play an instrument in the orchestra, or dance in the ceremonies. The women prepare the offerings, for their little shrines or for the village's offering to the Mother Temple of Besakih. If a child in a family is having his tooth filed, the rest of the village's women will help cook and prepare, and the men help erect a stage and decorate the house. In short, life in Bali is never alone.

You can observe this even in little children. As their parents go to plant rice, the children - all seem to be in their best behavior - play with their age group. The older ones will care for the younger ones. Fights rarely occur, and loud screams or cries are even scarcer. As if they have been taught to be at harmony with their surroundings.

The Balinese also has a built in population control mechanism through their naming structure. In Bali, all first child is named Wayan, second child is Made, the third child is Nyoman, and the fourth, or the last, is Ketut. If you have more than four? Well, the Balinese seem to have understood modulo arithmetic, so it's back to Wayan, Made, Nyoman, and Ketut, repeat. But implicitly, the culture discourages having more than four children.

Though originating from India, the brand of Hinduism known and practiced in Bali differs significantly from the one found in India. Instead of mysticism or philosophy, the emphasis of Bali's Hinduism is more in rituals and dramatic features, allowing the religion and its practice to be incorporated into daily life of Balinese peasants. These rituals and dramatic features have been intricately woven into the lives of Balinese to the extent that one cannot separate the religious life of Bali from its daily life. In fact, one can say every little action of a Balinese has some religious connotation; stone and wood carvings, cremation ceremony, trance dances, vibrant music - all are intended to please the gods and the goddesses. These rituals most often take place in a temple, the most important structure in the Balinese culture.

Food

Another aspect of religious life in Bali is the belief that the gods and the goddesses appreciate the mundane pleasures as much as the mere mortals. Feasts and festivals color everyday life as they function to please the people as much as they please the gods. Dances, music, and performances will of course be present. And endowed with such fertile and arable land, the Balinese also practice their creativity with the food and offerings presented in these feasts (which, one can rightfully expect, transcend into similar kinds of food and fruits consumed in normal daily living...)

Balinese Culture

2009-05-31T18:14:00.000-07:00

The culture of Bali is unique. People say that the Balinese people have reached self-content. It is not an exaggeration that when a Balinese is asked what heaven is like, he would say, just like Bali, without the worries of mundane life. They want to live in Bali, to be cremated in Bali when they die, and to reincarnate in Bali.

It does not mean that the Balinese resist changes. Instead, they adapt them to their own system. This goes back far in history. Prior to the arrival of Hinduism in Bali and in other parts of Indonesia, people practised animism. When Hinduism arrives, the practice of Hinduism is adapted to local practices. The brand of Hinduism practised in Bali is much different from that in India. Other aspects of life flow this way.

Traditional paintings, faithfully depicting religious and mythological symbolisms, met with Western and modern paintings, giving birth to contemporary paintings, free in its creative topics yet strongly and distinctively Balinese. Its dance, its music, and its wayang theaters , while have been continually enriched by contemporary and external artistry, are still laden with religious connotations, performed mostly to appease and to please the gods and the goddesses. Wood and stone carvings, gold and silver crafts parallel the development of paintings, gracefully evolving with external forces to enhance their characters. The batik of Bali owes its origin to Java, and inspired the development of ikat and double ikat.

Bali Hotels - All hotels in Kuta area

2009-05-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

Alam Kulkul Boutique Resort 4 star / 80 rooms

Rates: Alam US$ 80.00 / Lanai US$ 100.00

Long a favorite for bringing the Balinese way of life into an intimate and charming setting, the Alam Kul Kul continues to set the pace with today's discerning travelers. Contemporary Balinese design together with professional and courteous service and a unbeatable location just a step or two from Kuta Beach make the Alam KulKul a fine choice and one of Bali's most popular value for money hotels.

Barong Hotel Kuta 2 star / 98 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 33.00 (include breakfast)

Tucked away on Jalan Segara Batu Bolong in the midst of Bali's famous Kuta Beach, The Barong Hotel Bali, one of Kuta's favourite hotels, offers good, clean accommodation for today's value conscious traveler.

Bounty Hotel Kuta 3 star / 166 rooms

Rates: Standard IDR 480,000 / Superior IDR 580,000 (include breakfast)

The Bounty Hotel, situated in the heart of Kuta, is one of Bali's most popular hotels. Ideally located on Jl. Poppies II between the beach and all of Kuta's best night spots, the Bounty Hotel Kuta Bali puts guests in the centre of Kuta's shops, restaurants and nightlife. Clean, spacious rooms and friendly staff at very reasonable rates all add up to good value for money.

Champlung Mas Hotel 2 star / 70 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 32.00 / Superior US$ 40.00 (include breakfast)

Located in the very heart of Kuta a quick 20 minutes drive from the airport and surrounded by shops, restaurants and nightspots the Champlung Mas Hotel Bali offers 70 clean, comfortable and spacious guestrooms at down to earth rates. With good value for money just a few metres from Legian's attractive white sand beach and popular surfing spots the popular Champlung Mas is a good choice for a fun filled holiday.

Dewi Sri Cottage Kuta 2 star / 58 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 33.00 (include breakfast)

Situated at the end of Gg. Troposone, just off Jl. Legian (about 500 metres) the Dewi Sri hotel is the perfect blend of being in the middle of Kuta's nightlife yet still tucked away at the end of a quiet alley. A sister hotel of the ever popular Barong Hotel - you'll find the same great money for value services and facilities.

Hard Rock Hotel Bali 5 star / 418 rooms

Rates: Superior US$ 151.25 / Deluxe US$ 169.40 (include breakfast)

Asia's first Hard Rock Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel Bali continues to set the pace for beach resorts everywhere. Strategically located just across from Kuta's prime surf beach and surrounded by shops and restaurants the Hard Rock Hotel Bali presents a delightful twist to fun in the sun with its unique all in one rock 'n roll resort concept.

Harris Riverview Kuta 4 star / 135 rooms

The Harris Riverview Hotel Bali features of 100 one bedroom guest rooms and 52 one and two bedroom residences specially designed for family holidays and long staying guests looking for a central location nearby to Kuta and Legian areas and just around the corner from Jl. ByPass for quick and easy access around Bali.

Hotel And Spa Maxi Kuta 3 star / 50 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 35.00 / Deluxe US$ 45.00 (include breakfast)

Hotel And Spa Maxi Kuta central location along Jl. Legain puts guests right in the heart of all the best that Kuta has to offer. Paddy's Pub II and the Apache Bar, two of Kuta's most popular nightclubs, are directly across the street and the hotel is surrounded by any number of good restaurants and fine shops. With its spacious and clean rooms, Hotel And Spa Maxi Kuta Bali is a good choice for those looking to enjoy Kuta's exciting nightlife.

Ida Hotel Bali 1 star / 57 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 33.00 / Standard Bungalow US$ 33.00 (include breakfast)

A tranquil oasis in the midst of bustling Kuta, Ida Hotel is set in a lovely tropical garden. Just a quick stroll to Kuta's white sand beach and surrounded by great shopping, dining and night spots, the Ida Hotel Kuta Bali puts visitors in the centre of Kuta with good, clean rooms at good value for money rates that is well suited for the budget conscious traveler.

Inna Kuta Beach Hotel 4 star / 129 rooms

Rates: Deluxe US$ 80.00 / Cottage US$ 90.00 (include breakfast)

Formerly the Natour Kuta Beach, with its premier beachfront location in the heart of Bali's famous resort area the Inna Kuta Beach Hotel Bali couldn't be better located. Located just across the street from the Hard Rock Beach Club Hotel & Hard Rock Cafe and just steps from Kuta Square shopping area and the Inna Kuta Beach Hotel Bali offers good accommodation with traditional Balinese flair.

Kuta Beach Club Hotel Bali 3 star / 100 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 47.00 / Bungalow US$ 62.00 (include breakfast)
Situated in the heart of Kuta's bustling restaurant, entertainment and shopping district and just a short stroll from Kuta Beach, the Art Market, Water Bom Park and Hard Rock Cafe the Kuta Beach Club Hotel Bali is in the ideal location to explore Kuta and offers good value for money for visitors looking to stretch their travel budget.

Kuta Lagoon Resort 3 star / 82 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 50.00 / Deluxe US$ 62.00 (include breakfast)

Situated in the heart of Kuta, at the end of a narrow lane that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of Kuta, the Kuta Lagoon Resort (formerly the Kuta Legian Village) is a small oasis of tropical tranquility where simple yet clean and comfortable hotel accommodation at a very affordable rate awaits.

Kuta Seaview Cottage 4 star / 82 rooms

Rates: Superior US$ 80.00 / Deluxe Garden US$ 94.00 (include breakfast)
Situated directly across from Kuta Beach with a backdrop of pounding surf and magnificent sunsets, the Kuta Seaview is conviently located between Jl. Poppies I & II making access around Kuta fast and easy. Guest rooms are comfortable, clean and well appointed.

Mercure Kuta Bali 4 star / 130 rooms

Rates: Deluxe Oceanview US$ 131.10

Set directly across from world famous Kuta Beach and smack in the centre of the Bali exciting beach scene, the Mercure Kuta Bali hotel's contemporary design takes full advantage of the stunning ocean views and memorable sunsets. Incorporating the best of traditional Bali with a modern flair the Mercure Kuta Bali puts you on Kuta Beach in style and comfort at a very competitive rate.

Ramayana Resort & Spa 4 star / 217 rooms

Rates: Deluxe US$ 115.00 / Executive Dlx. US$ 135.00 (include breakfast)

It's hard to say enough about the Ramayana Hotel. One of Kuta's all time favourite hotels, Ramayana just keeps getting better with time. Location couldn't be better, smack in the heart of Kuta just steps from the beach and near the family attractions in Tuban the hotel offers excellent 4 star facilities at very reasonable rates. All in all, good value for money.

The Oasis Hotel Kuta 3 star / 70 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 45.00 (include breakfast)

Located in the heart of Kuta just off Jl. Bakung Sari The Oasis Kuta is nicely positioned to get the most out of a your Kuta holiday. Just down the street and within easy walking distance to Kuta Square shopping centre, Kuta beach, the Hard Rock Cafe etc., The Oasis Hotel Kuta is a good choice for budget conscious travelers looking for a contemporary style hotel in a quiet setting at reasonable price.

Villa de daun 4 star / 12 rooms

Rates: 1-Bdrm Pool Villa US$ 220.00 / 1-Bdrm Deluxe Pool Villa US$ 286.00 (include breakfast)

Stunningly beautiful, Villa de daun is without doubt the most beautiful and luxurious hotel in the heart of Kuta. Tucked away down a peaceful Gang (lane) just off bustling Jalan Legian, the area surrounding Villa de daun is dotted with fine restaurants serving a wide variety of international cuisines, great shopping and exciting nightspots - putting guests within easy walking distance to one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods on Bali in style.

Villa Diana Kuta star / 16 rooms

Rates: Standard Room US$ 48.00 / Deluxe Room US$ 49.00 (include breakfast)
Well situated in the middle of Legian, Hotel Villa Diana Bali offers just 16 guest rooms and suites in a contemporary, modern setting at attractive rates. Close enough to enjoy all the best shopping, restaurants and night spots of Legian and Seminyak yet just far enough away to offer a quiet haven for those both seeking to unwind in a relaxed atmosphere.

Preferred Melati Hotels in Kuta Bali

Bali Sorgawi Hotel 3 melati / 26 rooms

Rates: Standard Room IDR 300,000 / Deluxe Room IDR 350,000 (include breakfast)
Even though it is in the heart of Kuta, it takes a bit of looking to find the Bali Sorgawi Hotel with its location at the far end of a private drive off Jl. Legian. But the search is worth it for budget conscious travelers looking for safe and affordable accommodation within walking distance to Kuta's innumerable shops, restaurants and nightclubs. Small and cosy with only 26 rooms, the Bali Sorgawi Hotel is surprisingly full featured. Good value for money is on offer at Bali Sorgawi.

Balisandy Cottages 3 melati / 55 rooms

Rates: Superior IDR 300,000 / Deluxe IDR 325,000 (include breakfast)
Situated at the end of a quiet lane just off popular Poppies Lane II, the Balisandy Cottages is an easy hotel to overlook and that is unfortunate as the Balisandy Cottages offers some of the best value for money accommodation in the centre of Kuta. And being small hotel with only 37 guestrooms, the Balisandy Cottages is able to offer friendly and personalised service larger hotel hotels just can't match. Those looking for a comfortable secure accommodation at extremely attractive rates will be hard pressed to do better than the Balisandy Cottages.

Bamboo Bed & Breakfast 2 melati / 7 rooms

Rates: Twin - Share US$ 27.00 / Twin - Private US$ 31.00 (include breakfast)
Situated along Jalan Legian in the heart of Kuta/Legain shopping and entertainment district is the Bamboo Legian. With its distinct and modern design, the Bamboo Legian offers true european style bed and breakfast accommodation at very attractive rates for today's dynamic international traveler. Small and personal with only seven rooms available, the Bamboo Legian is a cosy alternative for those looking for simple accommodation in a stylish setting.

Restu Bali Hotel 3 melati / 40 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 34.00 / Superior US$ 41.00 (include breakfast)
With it's unbeatable location along Jl. Raya Kuta, smack in the heart of Kuta - the Restu Bali Hotel is within walking distance to just about everywhere. The area's best shops, restaurants and nightclubs are just steps from the lobby. Even so, the hotel is set back off the street, a quiet oasis with rooms that are clean and comfortable. And the service is warm and friendly; treating each guest like family makes the Restu Bali Hotel one of Kuta's most popular hotels for budget sensitive travelers.

Simpang Inn Kuta Bali 3 melati / 60 rooms

Rates to be advised
Surrounded by shops, restaurants and nightclubs and just a minutes from Kuta Beach the Simpang Inn is within easy walking distance to all the fun in Kuta. A small family owned hotel known for its friendly service and clean accommodation, Simpang Inn puts guests in the heart of Kuta at reasonable down to earth rates.

Yulia Beach Inn Kuta 2 melati / 34 rooms

Rates: Standard US$ 40.00 / Bungalow US$ 45.00 (include breakfast)
Welcoming guests since 1972, the Yulia Beach Inn has a well deserved reputation as one of Bali's premier value for money hotels. Ideally located in the heart of Kuta just down the street from Kuta beach the hotel is smack in the heart of all Kuta's attractions and entertainment options, shops and restaurants. As a family run hotel you can be assured of friendly Balinese service and secure, very clean and well maintained rooms at very attractive rates.

Volcom Stone's

2009-05-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

It was friendly weather for all involved at Volcom Stone’s Grillfish Surf Series, held last Sunday April 12th, with just a few clouds forming a nice barrier between spectators and the blasting Bukit sun. The waves couldn’t have been more perfect either, 2-3 feet high with a constant stream of spot on barrels.

The most interesting to watch in the Under 14’s category was little Tommy Sabri, who led from the first heat with his snap and floater maneuvers. Too bad he didn’t get any waves in the finals, leaving I Kadek Koko Mitsua Antara as the winner.

From early on it was a tight competition between Agus Sumerta Yasa and Agus Sudiantara for the Under 17’s finals. But Agus Sumerta Yasa kept up a strong ability to control the waves, and won the final heat with a significant point difference thanks to his smooth cutback and snap maneuvers.

It was also intense at the Pro-Am division. I Kadek Arya Wiarta actually led the score board and was about to snag the first place, but within the last minutes Mega Semadhi dropped a seriously big air and landed perfectly clean. This earned him high points and took him to victory.

The prize presentation was held after the contestants enjoyed their free lunch and Volcom’s signature giveaway frenzy marked the end of the day.

Pirates Cruise Party

2009-04-26T10:46:00.000-07:00

Pirates Cruise Party

Bringing a new party innovation to the shores of Bali, or perhaps just off the shores of Bali, Marlboro Black Menthol got seaside and turned a cruise ship into a pirate’s party haven. With a 10pm kick off in the Bounty Cruise Quay lobby, stillt walkers welcomed the eager crew, DJ’s Mita Keyla and Dita Zizta spun tracks as Resty and Jeje Ramona MC’d and a fashion show got everbody warmed up for the night. Around midnight and it was time to hit the wooden deck while DJ Beta Costa hit the vinyl decks. C&C models set another fashion parade in motion and as the ship continued to set sail, DJ Soma kept the sonic waves afloat ‘til 3am. She’s a fine mistress yee ocean!

DJ Matt Caseli

2009-04-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

Mr Caseli has become quite the name around town, drawing plenty of eager ears out to Blue Eyes a few weeks back and again bringing the crowd to Hu’u in a big way in the last fortnight. It’s always good to see a DJ as excited to be there as everyone else and Matt didn’t hold back with the ‘wave your hands in the air like you just don’t care’ action. After a long standing residency at Ibiza hitting almost 12 years, you could say there’s a little experience under this guy’s collar and it was keeping everyone on a high. The sound system seemed to be feeling the pressure which may have been slightly distracting for those with keen ears, but the room remained packed and the crowd pushed right out to the back bar. Hu’u definitely wins on use of space, drapes breaking up a huge outdoor area to create intimate pockets to chill out in, soft lighting and huge pillows perfect for a post dance lie down. Another lychee martini thanks...

Interview with Mattia

2009-04-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

With the Indonesian Surf Championships kicking off at the end of April, we hit the beach to see where the surfing spirit is at...

Introducing...
MATTIA: Hello, I am Mattia, Italian surfer, born in Milan 9 November 1990.

How long have you been living in Bali?
M: I have been living in Bali for the past 8 years, it doesn’t seem like that long because it’s such a great place.

Can you speak Bahasa Indonesian?
M: Bisa! harus bisa! (I can! I must be able to!)

What is your surfing background?
M: well, I surf mostly for fun, nothing serious, but I do a couple of contests every now and then, it helps to keep my sponsors happy.

What got you into surfing?
M: Well, the first time I came to Bali was in the year 2000, I saw people surfing in Legian and I said to myself “I wanna do that one day”. The next day I rented myself a body-board and I was trying to stand up on it, because I was so little I could! After a few days i got a surfing instructor from Legian and they taught me well.

How did you feel when you got your first wave?
M: well I didnt really get to stand up on my first wave but i felt great.

What are the benefits of surfing?
M: Well there are many benefits if you are a surfer; chicks love surfers, you get this amazing feeling when you’re riding waves, your body gets fitter and healthier and once you start you can’t stop, i dont know if that’s a benefit though!

What is your favorite moment when surfing?
M: My favorite moment when i surf is when i score good waves and ride great barrels with no one around.

What kind of surfing do you like the best?
M: I love free surfing; going on trips just for fun is the best for me.

Have you ever been close to drowning or injured?
M: No luckily I haven’t drowned yet! But yeah I got injured once before, last time I was at the mentawais for an 8 day trip, I cut my back up pretty bad.

What is your favorite beach?
MATTIA: Well I like surfing everywhere but my favorite beaches are Bingin and Canggu.

What surfboard do you use?
MATTIA: I mainly use short-boards because I can do airs and stuff, cant do those on a long-board can you?

Any unforgettable moments?
MATTIA: I’ll never forget the 18th of July 2008, best Padang-Padang EVER!
Tell us about the contests you’ve been involved in...

MATTIA: Well I do the ISC tour (Indonesian surfing championship) and I hope this year I get to go into the top 10, its been really hard because now that I’m not a grommet anymore I have to compete with the opens which is really hard to win. But hopefully this year I can do better.

If you’ve signed up for the ISC the waiting period begins on the 26th of April so when the good waves hit you better be ready for that call...

Coconut the Tree of Life

2009-04-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

Think of a tropical island and the image that springs to mind is that of a sandy beach bordered with coconut palms. Beyond a place to indulge in shade though, these symbols of the holiday spirit also provide an abundant source of materials and ingredients that are used for a variety of every day reasons. From root to leaf tip the coconut palm can be used for our benefit, thus earning it the nickname ‘Tree of Life’. Here are a few examples to look out for…

1.Coconut Water

Breaking open a coconut and drinking down the sweet liquid to be found inside has been the savior for many a marooned man dying of thirst. There are plenty of bars and cafés in Bali that make it a lot easier though. From alcoholic cocktails to simply cutting off the top and adding ice with a straw, coconuts provide a cool remedy to the tropical heat with their natural source of flavored water. Young coconut water is also used for the treatment of high blood pressure and it’s full of amino acids and vitamins.

2.Coconut Meat

Coconut meat is a popular food ingredient, especially in Bali. Head on down to a traditional restaurant and check out the menu for meals such as Yongko, Pisang Rai, Serombotan, Laklak and Lawar; just a few local cook ups that take advantage of the ‘other white meat’. Either that or crack one open on the beach and eat it raw. Now that’s livin’ in the tropics.

3.Coconut Milk

This smooth, creamy white cooking base is derived from the meat of mature coconuts. Its rich taste and color is attributed to the high content of oil and sugars and it comes in two grades; thick and thin. Directly squeezing grated coconut meat through cheesecloth produces thick milk, and repeating this process a second or third time after soaking the used meat in warm water will produce thin milk. Rich, dry sauces and desserts are often cooked with thick coconut milk while soups and general cooking uses thin milk.

4. Coconut Oil

This simple extract produced from pressing coconut meat just happens to be a super health benefit for the body, helping to protect against heart disease, prevent cancer and osteoporosis, empower the immune system, prevent infection, keep diabetes under control and soften the skin when used externally. Also great as a massage oil! Two table-spoons in the morning and at night are enough to start cleansing the system.

5.Coconut Shell

Not even the outside shell of the coconut goes to waste. Balinese cooking often uses a small coal fire to grill fish, corn or beef and the coconut shell is perfect for using as charcoal. It is also used for creating souvenirs and household goods such as rice ladles and ashtrays.

6. Coconut Leaf

The Leaf of the coconut palm has a huge range of practical uses, especially within Balinese Hindu ceremonies to create ornaments and wrap food for serving and cooking. Canang is the ornament placed in various locations as a prayer offering and it is made from cutting and weaving the leaf into a square bowl. Other examples are baskets, handicrafts, roofing and decorations.

7.Coconut trunk

The trunk of the coconut tree is itself commonly used as a building material within housing and bridges, while also being utilized for ornamental carvings, furniture and souvenirs.

Bali Restaurant Guide

2009-04-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

Whilst is quite easy to eat very nicely (and cheaply) in Bali, most of that is due to the intense competition of too many restaurants serving too much the same menu. With not much menu differentiation restaurants in Bali have, until recently, competed solely on price. Good for the hungry yobos but where to go for a nice evening and get good value for the money? (btw, good value does not always mean cheap...

Location : Kuta

Cafe Dulang: Indonesian $$
Comments: Super 'soto ayam' (Indonesian chicken soup) that's almost a meal by itself.
Location: Kuta Square Shopping Centre. 2 shops from Matahari & same side of the street.

Kopi Pot: Mixed menu, Indonesian & Western $$$
Comments: Still, after all the years, one of our favorites. A welcome respite in Kuta.
Location: Jl. Legian, Kuta. Parking Telp. 752 614

Kori: Western $$$1/2
Comments: You won't believe that you're still in Kuta, quiet and serene with a nicely prepared menu.
Location: Jl. Poppies II (Near Tubes)

Made's Warung: Mixed menu, Indonesian & Western $$$
Comments: There's a reason the place is a legend; good food, great atmosphere.
Location: Jl. Pantai Kuta / Just west of Bemo Corner Telp. 751 923

Pawon Pasundan: Sundanese $$1/2
Comments: Specialising in Sudanese cuisine (West Java), everything at Pawon Pasundan is delicious. Must tries are the "Flying Grouper" and the ice desserts.
Location: Jl. Kediri No.2 (formerly Jl. Kesatria) - right hand side Telp. 755 833

Pica Tapas Bar: $$$
Comments: Authentic Tapas and Churrasqueria. The real deal for Spainish cuisine in Bali.
Location: Kuta Galeria block River Side No.15 Telp. 769 038 - 769 028

Location : Legian/Seminyak

Antique Restaurant & Bar: International $$1/2
Comments: The cuisine is described as Pan-Asian fusion, an innovative combination of taste and flavour. Whatever... food is tasty and surprisingly inexpensive.
Location: Jl. Dhyanapura - Abimanyu Arcade 7 Telp. 730 907

Chat Cafe: International $$
Comments: Contemporary cafe with a nice, but limited menu that covers all the bases at very reasonable prices. As well there's free wifi internet access available from 7.00 am - 11.00 pm. Comfortable place to drop in or stay connected.
Location: Jl. Kunti 18 Seminyak Telp. 732 303

Cafe Moka: Pastries and Western Favourites $$1/2
Comments: A nice spot for brunch. Nice bakery, light meals relaxed atmosphere. We also like the casseroles and take-away items for quick home dinners.
Location: Jl. Raya Seminyak Telp. 731 424

Earth Cafe: Vegetarian $$1/2
Comments: Small cosy retreat with a surprisingly large menu, well prepared and good portions that will satisfy vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Location: Jl. Laksmana Oberoi, Seminyak Telp. 736 614

Kafe Warisan: French Mediterranean $$$$
Comments: The local perennial favorite for fine dining, Kafe Warisan just gets better and better. Excellent value for money-especially for the daily lunch specials. Absolutely delightful. Reservations recommended especially on weekends and holidays.
Location: Jl. Raya Kerobokan No. 38 Telp. 731 175

Kuni's Bali: Japanese $$$
Comments: Modern and comptempory urban design plus an extensive menu with freshest ingredients at very attractive prices equals excellent value for money.
Location: Jl. Lesmana No. 80, Seminyak Telp. 730 501

La Luciola: Italian $$$1/2
Comments: An all time favourite and one of the few restaurants in Bali where you really should make a reservation - and they'll cook your pasta al dente if you ask nicely. Excellent value for money.
Location: Jl. Oberoi Seminyak - on the beach Telp. 730 838

Made's Warung: Indonesian & Western $$1/2
Comments: Same owners as Made's Warung in Kuta. It's rare to find a sequel as good as the original but Made's Warung in Seminyak has pulled it off. And there's parking!
Location: Jl. Raya Seminyak, (right hand side going north, parking available) Telp. 732 130

Mykonos: Greek $$
Comments: The Greek restaurant in Bali, eating at Mykonos is like eating at home. Presentation may be simple but the atmosphere is fun, the food is delicious and the value is unbelievable. Reservations recommended on weekends.
Location: Jl. Laksmana No. 52 Telp. 733 253

Pizza Club: $$1/2
Comments: The best pizza in Bali. Period. And with several locations around Bali they deliver almost anywhere.
Location: Jl. Laksmana 72B, Seminyak. Telp. 730 614 / Citra Bali, Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai 23 Jimbaran Telp. 703 294

Queen's Tandoor: Indian $$$
Comments: Bali's premier Indian cuisine restaurant. A little more expensive than others but well worth the money.
Location: Jl. Raya Seminyak No.73 (Gallery Seminyak) Telp. 732 770

Rumors Restaurant: Cafe $$
Comments: The value restaurant on 'Eat Street' in Seminyak Rumours offers a full cafe style menu with an accent on Italian cooking at great down to earth prices.
Location: Jl. Laksmana Telp. 738 720

Sarong Restaurant: $$$1/2
Comments: Delightfully elegant interior that invites guests to linger sets the stage an eclectic menu that is as inventive as it is pleasing to the palate. Portions are very, very generous.
Location: Jl. Petitenget No. 19x, Seminyak. Telp. 737 809

SIP Wine Bar: French $$$$
Comments: The menu is (classic) French, the preparation is faultless and the wine well chosen while the atmosphere is elegant and urbane without being pretentious. A truly delightful bistro.
Location: Jl. Raya Seminyak, No. 16A (near Bintang Supermarket) Telp. 730 810

Tekor Bali: Indonesian and Western $$
Comments: With its beach side location, friendly service, great food and down to earth pricing who could ask for more? Always packed, always good.
Location: Double Six Beach, Legian Kaja, Legian Telp. 735 268

The Beach House at Echo Beach: $$$
Comments: Quintessential beach side restaurant. Good food, wide selection, decent prices, friendly staff, live music once in a while and free wifi to boot. Great place to hang out and enjoy the sun and watch the surf.
Location: Jl. Pura Batu Mejan, Canggu Phone (0361) 738471

The Living Room: Continental $$$1/2
Comments: True to it's name, The Living Room's comfortable atmosphere makes you feel right at home. Sharp service and continental favorites with a tropical flair at down to earth prices make the living room a great place to unwind.
Location: Jl. Raya Petitenget, Batu Belig Telp. 735 735

Tommy's Cafe: $$
Comments: The best breakfast spot in Legian. Hearty toasted sandwhiches and large fuit muffins baked to order - yes, muffins baked to order! Hmmm delicious. Great place to wake up and smell the coffee.
Location: Jl. Werkudara No. 520 Telp. 752 836

Trattoria: Italian $$1/2
Comments: A small intimate Italian restaurant serving a surprisingly wide variety of Italian dishes at rock bottom prices. Fine food, excellent value.
Location: Jl. Lesmana No. 104x, Oberoi, Seminyak Telp. 738 720

Ultimo: Italian $$$
Comments: Don't let the contemporary setting with white table cloths put you off, Ultimo offers hearty Italian cuisine at very affordable prices (be sure to check out the special set menus).
Location: Jl. Lesmana No. 104x, Oberoi, Seminyak Telp. 738 720

Location : Sanur

Cafe Batu Jimbar: Mixed menu, Indonesian & Western $$$
Comments: A long time favourite, drop in for a full dinner or just snack. Very good value for money.
Location: Jalan Danau Tamblingan No. 152 Telp. 287 374

Candi Restaurant: Thai $$$$$
Comments: Consistently excellent Thai cuisine.
Location: Grand Bali Beach Hotel, Jalan Hang Tuah Sanur Telp. 288 511

Jazz Bar & Grill: International Favorites $$$
Comments: Don't be put off by the shopping center location. A little bit of this, a little bit that -- all exquisitely prepared and accompanied by live entertainment nightly.
Location: Sanur Raya Shopping Center, Jl. Ngurah Rai Sanur Telp. 285 892

Kopi Bali House: International $$$
Comments: Popular for lunch with its diverse range of International (and a few Indonesian) favourites and air-conditioned comfort. And the only place we know that serves luwak coffee.
Location: Jln. Bypass Ngurah Rai 405-E, Sanur Telp. 270 990

Pergola: International $$$
Comments: Cosy and comfortable, Pergola is pehaps Sanur's most stylish restaurant with menu to match. Simply put, Pergola is just a great place to dine and unwind.
Location: Jl. Danau Toba 2, Sanur

Ryoshi: Japanese $$$
Comments: There are a several Ryoshi Japanese Restaurants - all serve an wide ranging menu, good sushi at down to earth prices.
Location: Jl Danau Tamblingan 150 Sanur Telp. 288 473

Location : Nusa Dua & Jimbaran

Bumbu Bali: Balinese $$$1/2
Comment: There are surprisingly few restaurants on Bali specialising in Balinese cuisine, Bumbu Bali is one of them and one of the best. Also offers cooking classes.
Location: Jl. Pratama Tanjung Benoa, Telp. 774 502

Faces at The Bale: International $$$$
Comments: New and cool. Exciting menu prepared in a show kitchen that opens onto and is part of the dining room. Faces is the only restaurant we know in Bali serving souffles - and we like souffles!
Location: The Bale Bali, Nusa Dua Telp. 775 111

Nusa Dua Grill: Seafood $$1/2
Comments: Serving up hearty portions of the freshest seafood in Nusa Dua, the Nusa Dua Grill is a where all the surfers come to fuel up before or after a long day on the water. Nothing fancy, just good value for money.
Location: Geger Beach (South Nusa Dua) Telp. 743 4779

Nyoman's Bali: Indonesian $$
Comments: If you staying in Tanjung Benoa area try Nyoman's. Nothing fancy but the food is tasty and the portions are ample. Stick with the Indonesian dishes.
Location: On the left hand side of the road just before the Club Mirage Resort.

PJ's at the Four Seasons: International $$$$$
Comments: It's not that hard to pick Bali's most romantic restaurant on the beach. The food is delicious and creatively presented - but make sure to leave room for the macadamia nut ice cream.
Location: Four Seasons Resort, Jimbaran Telp. 701 010

The Verandah: Continental $$$
Comments: One of Nusa Dua's best kept secrets is that The Bali International Lawn Bowls Club is open to the public. Enjoy a bird's eye view of the pitch while dining. Nice club menu featuring true imported streaks. Tremendous value for money.
Location: Bali Int'l Lawn Bowls Club. (Behind Matsuri Restaurant & Galleria Nusa Dua) Telp. 776 261

Bali Arts and Crafts

2009-04-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

Arts and Crafts Product in Bali

Until this century Balinese artists produced work (paintings, stone & wood carving etc.) under the patronage of wealthy kings or as gifts to decorate the local temple. As such the artists were only doing their part as a member of the community and therefore never gave much thought to be recognized for their efforts by signing their work. In addition, art had to follow very stringent guidelines so whilst the quality may have varied the content was quite standard. It wasn't until the arrival of European artists that Balinese artists learned to express themselves individually and then began signing their work.

Cloth & Textiles

Bali has basically 3 indigenous textiles: Endek, Gringsing and Tenun Ikat. That being said most of the swaths of cloth and fancy printed apparel on sale in Bali are really Batik and native to Java, not Bali. FYI, the intricate designs on Batik cloth are made by applying wax to the fabric prior to dying each time another color is added.

Inasmuch as Endek is really only popular with the Balinese it is not mass produced - so it is quite safe to say that any endek you purchase will have been hand made. It is a laborious affair. The horizontal threads are laid out and pre dyed with a desired pattern in a tie dye type of operation ( the fabric may be dyed several times with different colors ). Once dyed the threads are dried then woven into the vertical threads on the loom. These vertical threads are only one color -usually black. It is not until the weaving is complete that one knows for sure the quality and clarity of the designer's work. This is just a rough idea how the process works, it's actually much more complicated than this with several people - men included - to make just one bolt of cloth. The finished bolt is about 20 feet long by 3.5 feet wide. It takes about 10 days just to weave one bolt of cloth - so think of the value !

Now, if you think that's tricky try it with both the vertical and horizontal threads at the same time. Imagine a weaver must come up with a design then "tye dye" both the horizontal and vertical threads separately 2-3 times depending on the number of colors used. Even the slightest miscalculation when dying the yarn or a mistake by the weaver and months of work are lost. This is basically how Gringsing is produced in the Balinese Village of Tenganan - one of two or three places in the entire world capable of producing this extraordinary textile. As mentioned many times in BaliHotels.com this is one of the best souvenirs available to visitors to Bali.

The third cloth, tenun ikat is also popular in Bali. Like endek the horizontal threads are dyed and woven into a solid vertical thread on the loom. The difference is that the patterns are solid colored blocks or simple crossing patterns. This cloth is also mostly produced by hand and is very popular in fashionable circles for clothing, home furnishings and accessories.

Traditional Kamasan Art

This is the most traditional of all Balinese paintings. Originating in the Klungkung Regency during the reign Kingdom of Gelgel it was widely admired throughout Bali. The artists specializing in this art form are known as "Sangging". In days gone by these Snagging artists would often be commissioned to travel to other kingdoms to decorate a palace or temple with this style of painting.

Kamasan is easily distinguished in the market. The paint color is predominately orange (sometimes blue) and the theme always depicts Hindu epics and are based on the Javanese Wayang characters. The characters are divided into two camps: Good, ( those with refined facial features and slim bodies) and Evil, (those with distorted faces, red color and distended bodies). The painting is a large canvas divided up into panels with each panel telling the story of a well known adventure. Years ago Kamasan art was placed primarily in temples as wall hangings, used as curtains, or as banners during festivals. (Go to the Kerta Goa Hall of Justice in Klungkung to see fine examples of this style). The paintings are used much the same way today with restaurants now often using the canvas for menu covers.

Kamasan still today has Sangging artists dedicated to painting in the traditional Kamasan style. Easily the best known Kamasan artist is I Nyoman Mandra who has his own school, and does restoration work. Bpk. Mandra can be found in Klungkung.

Modern Art

As mentioned earlier starting this century Balinese artists came under more direct influence of Western artists with the arrival of European artists. The most famous of these were German, Walter Spies and Dutchman, Rudolf Bonnet. These two painters taught the Balinese painters new, more realistic and expressionistic art - scenes from every day life, landscapes and the like - which now dominates the paintings produced on Bali. Later on and together with local artist Gede Agung Sukawati the Pitamaha Painters Association was established. Styles which sprang from this effort are briefly described below. When looking to buy keep in mind that prices vary widely depending on the size and the amount and clarity of detail.

Batuan

These large paintings are easily identified because every square inch of the canvas is filled with tiny figures going about life's daily activities (some quite graphic if you look hard enough). Usually bright colored, these paintings seem to be getting funnier and funnier (or sarcastic depending on your view of video camera tourists being painted into village life) as the years go by.

Keliki

Keliki paintings are generally the very small paintings you see hanging on pillars and odd spaces in different shops. These too are crammed with little images but look closely though and you will see that the subject matter is very different - usually the subject is the supernatural with fantastically detailed demons.

Pengosekan

These are the bird, flower and butterfly paintings you see all over. The amount of detail and correct proportion determine the price but works of the best (i.e. I Made Supartha commands up to US$ 5,000 for a good sized painting).

Ubud

With highly stylized human features -strong lines, long necks, proud posture, and the like identify these paintings to have been influenced by Walter Spies. The paintings are usually large and colorful without being bright. Such artists as Dewa Putu Bedil are always in demand and you may well have to commission the best and wait quite some time before you own one of this style.

Modern

Nowadays there are many Balinese and Indonesian artists who practice what can best be described as Modern Art. Some like Made Winata, Krijono, and Joko amongst others have achieved a great deal of commercial success combining their Indonesian perspective with abstract figures and new colors.

The Keris

These daggers with their wavy blades are famous the world over. Going back as far as Hindu Javanese of Majapahit in the 13th century, these beautiful daggers are much more than a weapon - they are a revered symbol of the man who owns it and each Keris is deeply believed to have a life and spirit of its own. Indeed there are stories of kings, too busy with affairs of the palace to attend their own weddings, letting the Keris stand in as the groom. And not just any will Keris will do, a Keris must be matched spiritually to its owner to protect him from harm.

Since the Keris is found in many parts of Indonesia, there are correspondingly many different styles of blades, handles and sheaths - none any better than another just personal preference. In Bali the Keris is usually quite large and has a wavy double edged blade ( be careful when you unsheathe it, it's sharp! ) with an ornately carved handle (or hilt) representing one of the gods from the Ramayana epic. Also with the Balinese Keris the area connecting the blade to the handle is embedded with semi precious stones as is the sheath. As a comparison, the Keris from Java are usually smaller and less presumptuous and the Keris from North Sumatra are usually with straight, one sided blades.

An old, valuable Keris can easily fetch US$ 5,000. but an average Keris is about US$ 200 - US$ 500. When buying, attention to detail is everything. Look closely at the area that joins the blade to the handle, does the handle look new and the blade old?, is the blade intricately forged? etc.

Masks

Practically from the time you step off the plane you will see masks of different sizes, shapes and colors. Whilst these days many masks are produced solely as tourist souvenirs not to take masks seriously in Bali would be a mistake. When a Westerner dons a mask at a party it is to pretend he is someone else. For Indonesians - especially Balinese to don a mask is to begin living the life of the mask. Masks used in performances of sacred dances are sacred and as such revered and kept so in temples. You will not find such masks sitting idly in a store waiting to be purchased. That being said, there are still fine masks - all works of art - that are no longer used available for sale (for a price).

Without going too deeply into (there are entire books devoted to the subject) most masks you will see are representations of Ramayana Epic. The masks with refined features such as a short pointed nose and white face represent Noblemen, while those with garish features - red faces with bulbous noses and missing teeth represent buffoons, idiots, liars and cheats. If you look closely at the eyes you will be able to see Chinese characters as well - they are the ones with the thinner eyes.

Lastly, today masks are being made in modern shapes like a crescent moons and painted abstract colors but these are really only for souvenirs and decoration. A fine mask properly displayed and well lit adds a lot to any home or office. Most of the best masks can be found in the village of Mas.

Stone Carving

Driving around Bali it would difficult not to be impressed with the majesty of the intricate stone carvings that adorn the thousands of temples that dot the island. This stone is known locally as "paras" and is not really stone in the Western sense. Rather paras is volcanic ash mixed with sand and clay and compressed over the centuries into a hard material similar to sandstone or soapstone. As such the material is quite soft, decays easily and moss seems to grow on it overnight - so if you are walking through a rice paddy and happen to see an old, blackened, moss covered statue do not think it is centuries old - it may be 5 or at the most 30 years old !

Traditionally stone has been carved into the shapes of demons and deities to decorate temples and courtyards of royal families - rarely does the average Balinese have any stone relief in his living area. Stone carvers have been around a lot longer than painters and have never been subject to the same strict rules as painters. The imaginations of the stone carvers has always been allowed to run riot i.e. gods with multiple sex organs and even scenes incorporating everyday life with today's technology such as airplanes are now carved into temple relieves.

To get a good idea of the range of items for sale a trip through Batubulan is a nice day spent. Whether or not you are ready to ship a 500 lb. statue back home is up to you but almost any statue would be focal point of your garden.

Wood Carving

Wood carving shares a lot of similarities with stone carving inasmuch as both were used primarily to decorate temples. You can see traditional wood carving used to decorate the pillars and beams used to support the roofs of temples (and lately restaurants as well). However understanding that wood carvings are much easier to transport and have more practical uses in home decorating it should come as no surprise to learn that Westerners have begun to have a strong influence on what is now being produced. Not that that is all bad. Traditionally wood carvers have also had pretty much free reign to experiment and many have become more sculptors than carvers with the best wood carvers turning unusual pieces of wood that most folks would just as soon throw away into masterpieces. However, still the most sought after works are the traditional Ramayana figurines.

There are many varieties of wood used. As a general rule of thumb all things being equal the softer the wood the faster it grows and the easier it is to carve and hence the price is lower. Popular soft woods are merantie, crocodile and hibiscus. Harder woods such as nangka (jackfruit), and kampor are much heavier and can be more intricately carved. Either way a word of caution - The wood is not always thoroughly dry before being carved and if you take it to a climate with less humidity it may crack. So sometimes it's better to take the older carving that's collected its share of dust and polish it up yourself when you get back home.

Other - Kites

Whilst maybe not a traditional art form, in fact kites were only recently introduced into Bali by the Japanese during their occupation of Indonesia in World War 2, the Balinese have quickly turned them into an art form. It is not unusual to see a group of men struggling to put a kite 4 meters (yes, 4 meters - some of these contraptions can be down right dangerous to passing aircraft !) into the back of a truck to take down to the beach. In fact there are laws against flying kites too close around the airport. The shapes can be winged eagles or tall ships complete with main mast and sails ! Truly a delight. And when these really big kites are airborne the wind on the string produces a loud, hypnotic humming sound. Serious competitions have begun to be staged with international competitors trying their best against the Balinese. Airworthy small versions make interesting souvenirs for young children.

Big-wave surfing drops into spotlight tonight with annual awards presentation

2009-04-18T11:29:00.000-07:00

The Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards presentation is the Academy Awards of big-wave surfing. But it's not televised live and the winners can't act.

However, tonight's red-carpet extravaganza at the Grove Theater in Anaheim will air via webcast on the event site, beginning at 7 p.m. And as viewers will discover, the finalists can surf.

In fact, for them, chasing giant waves is a yearlong passion and occupation. Awards (money) will be presented in six categories, but the premier category is Ride of the Year, worth $50,000 to one of five finalists.

The only Southern California surfer in the running for Ride of the Year is San Clemente's Greg Long, who's also up for the Best Overall Performance award.

Viewers don't have to wait; the rides and photos are on the event website.

Who'll capture Ride of the Year honors? Long might for his high-shoulder tube ride last July 26 at Dungeons, South Africa. But my hunch is that the prize will go to Ryan Hipwood for his hellacious air-drop/barrel ride last Oct. 11 at Shipstern Bluff, Tasmania.

Biggest wave? Looks like Mark Mathews has a slight edge for his plunge down a seemingly endless face at Cow Bommie, Western Australia. But it's extremely difficult to judge. All these athletes have turned in impressive performances.

Parkinson master of the waves at Bells Beach

2009-04-18T11:18:00.000-07:00

JOEL PARKINSON is surfing's Picasso. A degree of artistry exists in everything he does. He painted enough flawless lines across epic two-metre waves at Bells Beach yesterday to win the Rip Curl Pro and take a runaway lead in the race for the world championship.

He beat Victorian Adam Robertson in the final as thousands of spectators on the sand and cliff gave the only appropriate response: "Phwoar".

Picasso had his "Blue Period" at the start of the 20th century. His results were sombre and downcast. A hundred years later, Parkinson has occasionally been dispirited by his inconsistent exhibitions given the copious amounts of flair coursing through his veins. But angst is out of the picture now that he's won the first two events of the year.

With perennial threats Kelly Slater, Mick Fanning and Taj Burrow yet to reach a final this season, Parkinson is hurtling towards a maiden world title after winning Bells and the Quiksilver Pro last month just down the road from his home (sweet home) on the Gold Coast.

"Winning at home is probably the most special win you can have but this [the Rip Curl Pro trophy] is the most special trophy you can have," Parkinson said. "There is not another trophy in surfing that holds the prestige and honour that this has. I took confidence from home and from here I'll take more. People can get caught up in the whole world title race, but I always said I wanted to start the year with some results. I just never thought I'd start this well.

"There are a lot of really hungry, angry surfers that are behind me and will come out so strong in the next events. I've said since the Gold Coast that the world title is a marathon, not a sprint. There are still eight events left."

Finals day at Bells is as good as surfing gets; it's the day that gets the fans' blood pumping. Robertson was trying to become the first Victorian to ring the famous bell. He rode a blank board because he doesn't have a major sponsor. Win one more heat, and he could have named his price. He had an army of supporters on the beach but Parkinson's class shone through.

Beforehand there was the tantalising prospect of fire and ice, Fanning and Parkinson, meeting in the semi-finals. Two irrepressible forces were about to go for a ride but Fanning was knocked out in the quarter-finals by 21-year-old South African Jordy Smith.

Fanning and Parkinson are close mates. When the former won the world title in 2007, the latter celebrated long and hard at the party he helped organise in the car park at Kirra, but in the back of his mind was a nagging thought: "It could have been me."

This year, Parkinson is doing a Fanning. He's fitter than ever. Determined enough to bury his opponents in the sand.

Fanning triggered his shot at the title by winning the Quiksilver Pro then coming third at Bells. Parkinson has done even better. "I think it's his year," Jordy Smith said.

Parkinson's blue period is over.

Gnaraloo Station withdraws support for pro surfing event

2009-04-15T02:39:00.001-07:00

Gnaraloo Station has withdrawn its support for the proposed Rip Curl Pro Search ASP World Championship Tour surfing event at the famed ‘Tombstones’ big wave location at Gnaraloo, on the north west coast of Western Australia.

Paul Richardson of Gnaraloo today said that he had informed Rip Curl and Eventscorp, the events arm of the Western Australian Government, of the Station’s decision.

“Gnaraloo Station is not prepared to proceed with the event. Unfortunately, Rip Curl was not prepared to make the full level of investment required for a comprehensive and credible Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study to adequately identify, address and manage the potential environmental and social impacts of staging the event at Gnaraloo,” Paul Richardson said.

“Such an event cannot be undertaken without a preparedness to invest in adequate assessment and protection of the sensitive environmental resources at Gnaraloo. This requires inclusive consultation, comprehensive event planning and responsible environmental protection. This could be demonstrated by a thorough, credible and fully funded EIA”.

“I still strongly support the staging of international level events at Gnaraloo but only on a sustainable basis.” Rip Curl informed Mr Richardson late in November 2007 that Tombstones had been selected as a preferred site to stage a Pro Search event during 2008.

The Gnaraloo team quickly identified and requested that an EIA study be undertaken of the proposed event. Rip Curl agreed initially to make a commitment to some funding for work on the EIA.

Gnaraloo Station is unique as one of the only non-mining owned pastoral stations in Australia with a fulltime senior environmental scientist, Ms Karen Hattingh, on staff since 2005 when Mr Richardson took over the Station.

The Station’s in-house expertise was therefore considered best equipped to develop the EIA because of the team’s sitespecific knowledge, intensive site work over a number of years and understanding of the local context and regional perspective.

However, during November 2008, when the draft EIA was complete and ready for review before being released for public comment, Rip Curl stated its unwillingness to make the required full financial investment needed to complete the study to the standard, scope and detail required.

Paul Richardson said that as a result, the draft EIA would not be released to any parties and would remain the property of Gnaraloo Station, given its considerable investment of the required resources into its development. “Properly planned and implemented, I always believed the proposed ASP Tour event at Gnaraloo would have been beneficial for the Gascoyne Region and for Western Australia. So I am disappointed with how this has turned out.”

Gilmore outgunned by Brazilian in Bells final

2009-04-15T02:32:00.000-07:00

Brazil's Silva Lima has defeated Australian world surfing champion Stephanie Gilmore in the final to win the Rip Curl Women's Pro at Bells Beach.

Lima, 24, claimed her maiden win on the World Championship Tour with a 17.34 points to 13.06 victory, preventing 21-year-old Gilmore from securing a hat-trick of wins in the annual Bells Beach event.

Earlier Lima beat Peru's former world champion Sofia Mulanovich in the semi-finals while Gilmore advanced by beating young countrywoman Sally Fitzgibbons.

Saffa Jordy Smith into Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Round 3

2009-04-15T02:22:00.000-07:00

Jordy Smith continued his run in the Rip Curl Bells Beach Pro presented by Snickers in Victoria, Australia earlier today, defeating Damien Hobgood (USA) in inconsistent but near perfect two metre waves to advance to Round 3 (the last 16) of the second stop on the 2009 ASP World Tour.

Despite seven lay days since his dominant performance in Round 1and nursing a minor back complaint, Smith, 21, from Durban managed to record scores of 7.50 and 5.50 to eke out a 13.0 to 12.17 point victory over Hobgood.

“I think there were only three sets all heat and luckily I got two of them,” Smith said after only riding a total of three waves in the 30 minute heat. “I feel lucky to get through to the next round. When I woke up this morning it looked really good and I’m sure throughout the day the waves are just going to get better.”

Smith’s victory sees him up against giant-killer and wildcard Owen Wright, 19, in Round 3. The Australian caused a huge upset when he beat nine-times ASP World Champion and defending Rip Curl Pro champion Kelly Slater (USA), handing the American his second successive 17th place finish and increasing the pressure on Slater’s bid for an unprecedented 10th world title.

“I am really happy,” Wright said. “It has been a long week waiting to surf against Kelly. I have just been relishing it and waiting for it. Out there, I just stayed on my own game and really just concentrated on what I was doing. I just got the set waves and surfed them, then the ocean went flat at the end and I kept the win.”

Wright has been in sterling form in 2009, collecting three ASP Pro Junior event wins as well as the No. 8 spot on the ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS). Today’s win against Slater was further evidence of the explosive goofy-footer’s world-class form, and a great boost to confidence for the remainder of the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach.

Durbanite David Weare, the only other South African still in the event after Greg Emslie (East London) was eliminated in Round 1, has yet to complete his Round 2 heat against No. 16 seed Frederick Patacchia (HAW). The event was moved from Bells Bowl to nearby Winkipop as the tide came up today and then put on hold when unfavourable onshore winds started blowing during heat 12.

Heats 13-16 of Round 2 will be run when the event restarts and a decision will be made at 7am for a possible 7.30am start tomorrow (11pm today SA Standard Time).

The Rip Curl Women’s Pro Bells Beach presented by Ford New Fiesta was completed on Sunday with Silvana Lima (BRA) claiming her maiden ASP Women’s World Tour crown by beating reigning two-times ASP Women’s World Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) in the final.

South Africa’s Rosanne Hodge placed ninth in the event when she was ousted by Sofia Mulanovich (PER) in Round 3. The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach pres. by Snickers is webcast LIVE via live.ripcurl.com. For more information, log onto aspworldtour.com.

Hawaii's Keanu Asing Wins Gold at the Quicksilver Isa World Junior Surfing Championship

2009-04-15T02:08:00.000-07:00

(Salinas, Ecuador) - In a dramatic comeback, Hawaii’s Keanu Asing, 15, fought through the repechage rounds to claim gold in the coveted Under 16 Boys division of the Quiksilver ISA World Junior Championship in Ecuador today. Alessa Quizon took the fourth place copper medal in the Under 18 Girls; Dylan Goodale won copper in the Under 18 Boys; and Team Hawaii finished second overall to Australia to claim silver. The Quiksilver ISA World Junior Championships is the pinnacle of the sport of surfing for competitors under 18 years of age.

A 10th grade home-schooler in the Elite Element Academy system who maintains a 3.0 average, Asing set his career road map on course last May, on his 15th birthday. His goals were to win the NSSA Nationals in California, an international Pro Junior in Bali, US Championship titles in both the Under 16 and Under 18 divisions, and to qualify for the Quiksilver ISA Championships through the local Hard Rock Café Surf Series. He achieved all, topping it with his ultimate crowning moment today. It’s a solid step toward his lifetime goal of becoming world surfing champion.

The Under 16 division was stacked with talent this year and the battle for gold could easily have gone to any one of the top 16 qualifiers from Brazil, USA, Costa Rica, Peru, South Africa and Hawaii. It was the most closely contested of all the divisions.

Asing was heavily tested along the way having been relegated to the repechage rounds midway through the competition. Coming down to the final heats he adjusted his focus, gave it all he had, and made it clear he planned on going home as the 2009 ISA World Junior Champion.

In the final heat, Gabriel Medina from Brazil fought hard, getting within 0.16 of a point of Asing. Medina also had the highest single-wave score of the heat with a 9.52, but was unable to overtake Asing despite a combined score of 17.38. South African David Brand came in third, needing nearly a perfect 10 for first. Brazilian Jesse Mendes finished fourth. In a great show of sportsmanship, all four surfers embraced and congratulated each other after the heat.

“This is the biggest thing I have ever won,” said Asing. “I am so stoked to have pulled through the repechages. I think the loss in round four actually helped me. It made me more charged up and more focused. I knew I had to get good waves because every heat could have been my last. Coming to Ecuador has been an incredible experience.”

Back at home in Ewa, Keanu’s family is also celebrating having woken up at 3am every day of the eight-day event to watch his progress.

“Keanu plans on just taking his time,” says his father Tommy. “He doesn’t plan on doing any of the pro events until he’s really consistent at this junior level. He’s going to take his time and prepare for that level of competition.

“He’s still a young boy. He’s just 15 years old. He’s still enjoying being a kid. He’s got two more years of school left and he’ll be doing as many amateur events as he can during that time.”

In the overall team division, Australia claimed gold, 2005 ISA World Junior Champions, Hawaii, received silver, Brazil took bronze, and USA copper. France placed fifth overall, South Africa sixth, New Zealand seventh, Tahiti, Peru and Costa Rica came in eighth, ninth and tenth respectively.

In the Boys Under 18 final heat, Hawaii’s Dylan Goodale took fourth behind Dean Bowen (Australia), Miguel Pupo (Brazil), and Maxime Huscenot (France).

In the Under 18 Girls Final, Hawaii’s Alessa Quizon placed fourth in the final behind Australians Tyler Wright and Laura Enever, and USA surfer Courtney Conlogue.

The day concluded with the official medal ceremony with the crowning of the 2009 Quiksilver ISA World Junior Champions. “This is where we show the world that the Olympics of surfing are for real,” said ISA president Fernando Aguerre before the medals were awarded and the national anthems of the winning teams were played. “Muchas, gracias, Ecuador!”

For full results from the 2009 Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championship and to see photo highlights and on-demand video, visit www.quiksilver.com/isa.

Lucky Lakey Peak Groms Tear It Up at GromSearch 3 in Sumbawa

2009-04-15T02:03:00.000-07:00

The Rip Curl GromSearch crew hopped over east of Bali to world famous Lakey Peak in Sumbawa for Gromsearch 3 over the weekend to check out if there were any hot groms around...and they had no problem finding lots of 'em!

Having already produced such well known groms as Rip Curl team riders Ony Anwar (2008 Coca-Cola ISC Junior Champion) and the notorious surfer /MC Dede Gun, and last year's Rip Curl GromSearch Series winner Gazali Hamzah, Lakey Peak has shown itself to be a veritable hotbed of grom surfing in Indonesia.

Sunday morning greeted the GromSearch crew and the amping Lakey groms with bright sunshine and a perfect 3-4 foot Lakey Peak lineup, with plenty of both lefts and rights on offer. The tide was slowly ebbing out, creating just the right conditions for a low tide early afternoon finish. These groms have to be some of the luckiest on the planet to be able to surf waves like this all the time!

First up were the Under 14 groms battling it out in four 5-man heats for a place in the finals, starting at just after 9 am. Charging like there was a world championship at stake were Bomar Presetia, Yasin, Haeril Hu'u, and Ony Anwar's little brother Andri Anwar. These little shredders put on quite a show and aggressively attacked each wave, putting together deep bottom turns with slashing off the tops, gouging roundhouse cutbacks, and airs.

It was anybody's guess in most of the heats as to who would come out on top, as the competition was so fierce, but in the low tide final Yasin put together a stellar performance to best the late charging Andri for the top spot. Andri seemed be set on going big from the starting horn, but failed to complete some aggressive maneuvers early on, buy then settled down to some solid surfing to get second place over third place Bomar Presetia, leaving Haeril Hu'u to round out the final.

A special Micro Grom session (under 10 years of age) saw five 8-10 year old's paddle out to take on, what must have seemed like monstrous Lakey Peak! They charged like little legends, leaving all the viewers with a smile and laugh.

The Under 16 division may have had only six contestants, but they kept the judges busy non-stop all the way to the final. Rip Curl Team rider Muhlis (MJ) Jaffar made it clear that he wanted top spot on the podium and that ticket to Bali, going both left and right and executing big maneuvers in the critical parts of the wave to best Firman, who was virtually matching MJ point for point for most of the final but just came up a bit short at the horn. Both were super stoked to receive their Tickets to Bali, and all the finalists went home with Rip Curl Goody bags packed with prizes from Rip Curl and the GromSearch sponsors.

"I am really impressed by these young guys surfing ability," said Coca-Cola ISC Tour Head Judge Wayan Pica. "They are really charging, reading the waves and knowing which maneuvers to perform. It's great to see such high performance and bravery in these young kids when surfing this challenging reef break," he added.

Before the judges and crew left the tower to head back for the games, giveaways, and trophy presentation, Event Manager Yudha called out for the Expression Session to begin. The boys were going big trying to impress the judges, but it was Gazeli Hamzah that got the Best Trick award for his 360 bunny hop, and Tahi won the Best Wave award for a long left hander with a stack of turns, finishing with a 360 on the inside.

Trash collecting, musical chairs, quizzes, and just being there for the giveaways netted the attendees on the beach, so everybody went home with something! And so another epic GromSearch event came to a close with a happy bunch of people and a beautiful red sunset!

Results :

Under 16 Final

1. Muhlis Jaffar
2. Firman
3. Ornot
4. Silipester

Under 14 Final
1. Yasin
2. Andri Anwar
3. Bomar Prasetia
4. Haeril Hu'u

Mini Grom Final
1. Ompu
2. Kadet
3. Rocky
4. Gilang

Expression Session

Best Trick: Gazali Hamzah
Best Wave: Tahi

Coca-Cola Announce Launch of Indonesian Surfing Championship Tour 2009 at Hard Rock Café Bali

2009-04-15T01:51:00.000-07:00

On the 18th of April 2009 starting at 5:30 pm, Coca-Cola Bottling Indonesia (CCBI) will stage a beachside event at the Hard Rock Cafe in Bali to kick off the 2009 Coca-Cola Indonesian Surfing Championship Tour (ISC) season.

The event will start off in classic Balinese tradition with an opening ceremony complete with dancers and gamelan music. Welcoming speeches by Bruce Waterfield from Coca-Cola Bottling Indonesia and Tipi Jabrik from the ISC will follow, then a multimedia presentation and a live surfing demonstration by 2008 ISC Pro Surfing Champion Dede Suryana. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be accompanied by a surfboard giveaway to a special guest, then a live music presentation by Kuta lifeguard and musician Marcello, followed by a door prize giveaway that will end the beachside portion of the event.

A group of select invitees will then cross the street for dinner at the Hard Rock Café, and will be treated to more live music and a look at the X-Dance Film Festival-nominated film Mengejar Ombak (Chasing Waves), a documentary featuring 2008 ISC Pro Champion Dede Suryana from West Java by Dave Arnold.

CCBI has taken its corporate socially responsibility program to a whole new level for 2009, with a huge commitment in Bali to ensure that both the local inhabitants and the visiting tourists have clean and safe beaches, clear blue water, and a generally safe environment in which to live and to holiday. In forming relationships with the Indonesian Surfing Championship Tour, Reef Check Indonesia, Gelombang Udara Segar (GUS), Quiksilver Indonesia, Baliwista (Lifeguard Department), Satgas Pantai Kuta, and others, their goal is to improve the environmental and economic condition of Bali through consistent and sustainable programs that will have a maximum effect both physically and mentally on the people of Bali.

Since Bali is the birthplace of surfing in Indonesia and arguably the most famous Asian destination for both tourist and professional surfers from all over the world, having clean water and great waves to surf is a very important part of Balis economy. Through Balis growth in popularity as a surfing destination, many of the Indonesian boys and girls, and men and women, from Bali and other wave rich islands in Indonesia, have been able to develop their surfing skills and to gain world-wide attention for their high level of performance, thanks in part to the efforts of the ISC over the last 5 years.

CCBI is proud to provide their support and sponsorship to the ISC in order to help these athletes in their pursuit of their dream to become professional surfers. The first stop on the ISC Pro Tour will start in Bali at Sanur with the Rusty Rumble in Da Jungle from April 26 to May 16 (waiting period).

The next stop will find the tour in the seaside town of Cimaja in West Java for the Billabong Pro West Java from May 20-23, before touching down in West Sumbawa for the Rip Curl West Sumbawa Pro from June 20-30 (waiting period). The 2009 season will wrap up with the Quiksilver Pro at Keramas in late October. There are many more events on the ISC tour this year, and you can keep on top of all the action via the ISC Tour website at www.isctour.com.

Surfing Legends Coming to Santa Cruz

2009-04-15T01:47:00.000-07:00

Primo Island Lager, Hawaii's original beer, dating back to 1897, will bring the aloha spirit and Hawaiian big "Bruddahs" to California for a 10-day tour of top coastal towns and surfing spots. Dubbed "The Primo Big Bruddah Tour," two specially outfitted Primo vehicles, a classic VW Double Cab and a custom woody bus, will hit Santa Cruz on April 25-26 to be part of the Big Stick Surfing LogJam! 2009. Some of Hawai'i's most notorious "Bruddahs" ("brother" or "pal" in Hawaiian pidgin) are coming direct from Hawai'i to help spread the word about Primo Island Lager and some "aloha spirit."

The LogJam!, held each April at Pleasure Point in Santa Cruz, California, is a little slice of surfing history. Since contest rules require contestants to ride boards made before 1970, and no leashes are allowed, it's an opportunity to see some elegant, old-school surfing, a skillful style born of the era's big, heavy boards and the annoyance of having to swim after them if you fell off. The event has become as much a chance for classic surfboard devotees to show their collections and talk about board design as it is a competition.

Primo's big "Bruddahs" will also be on hand, including Micah Nickens, Hawaiian Big Wave Champion; Rusty Keaulana (Russ K), three-time Longboard World Champion and part of the first family of Hawai'i surfing; Spam, Primo's official "Bombucha"; and Lanai, a top DJ on 98.5 in Oahu. The Bruddahs will spread a taste of Hawai'i with California native Brad Gerlach, International Big Wave Champion.

WHEN:
Saturday, April 25, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by a banquet dinner.
Sunday, April 26, from 8 a.m. to 2 pm.

WHERE:
Pleasure Point, Santa Cruz, CA. Contest will be held at the corner of East Cliff Drive and 36th Avenue.

Primo's "Bruddahs" and the two Primo vehicles will also be hosting "Primo Aloha Night" featuring comedy shows, tasting and music on April 25:
Rock of the Sea - 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Corner Pocket - 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Crow's Nest - 9 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Hula Bar - 10 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The Nightlife in Sanur

2009-04-11T03:47:00.000-07:00

Lava Lounge
Enjoy a cocktail in this cool setting. Located on Jl Danau Toba. Your hosts are from Australia and will make you feel most welcome.

Grantang
Located with Bali Hyatt, a sophisticated cocktail bar, serves up live jazz every night except Wednesday from 8pm-1am.

Pergola
Head down to Pergola on a Thursday evening for their Salsa night from 8pm onwards. Enjoy a drink or two at the bar!

Jangger Disco
Formerly Subec if you're after a friend for the night this just might be the place to go.

Jazz Bar & Grill
Sanur Raya Complex serving great food and Monday night Jazz session is excellent. Jazz and cover bands 7 nights from 9.30pm

Kafe Wayang
Greatest jam session on the Island every Friday night. Good food and bunch of people hang out there. Located opposite the Radisson Bali hotel in the Sanur Raya shopping complex.

Koki Pub
Missing the pub dinners while on holiday this is the place to go. Pool table and cable TV. Located on Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai Sanur. Open till late.

Trophy Bar
Good place to have pre-dinner drinks located next to Sanur Beach Hotel.

The Wine and Cigar Bar at Pala
Bringing air-conditioned elegance to Sanur. A large range of moderately priced wines from allover the world can be drunk in comfort here or taken home.

Bali Nightlife in Kuta,Legian & Seminyak

2009-04-11T03:26:00.000-07:00

A Bar
Jalan Dhyana Pura Gado-gado Seminyak. Named after Absolute Vodka, mature crowd, real drinks, cozy atmosphere. 8pm till late.

A Club
Situated on Jl Basangkasa-Seminyak, This trendy club is open Tuesday-Saturday 10pm till late with DJ house music and special Friday night parties.

Aina
Jl oberoi. Bali's first "fully unconditioned" cocktail bar. Good music friendly atmosphere. Opens early till late.

Apache Reggae Bar
Reggae cover bands 7 nights a week, 11pm - 2am, Jl Legian.

Bali Globe Cafe
A selection of International DJ's open each night from 10:00pm till dawn. Jl. Dyana Pura, Seminyak.

Bali Peanuts Club
One of the most popular venues in the Kuta area, the scene is young and sprinkled with locals, who all take to the huge dance floor in the cave-like air-conditioned interior. Pool tables and plenty of entertainment, compliment the very reasonably priced drinks, live music every night Sunday-Friday. DJ music Saturday night from 9pm on Jalan Raya Legian.

Bali Rock Cafe
Live music by popular cover bands 7 nights a week. 9.30-12pm.

Bahiana
Open from 7pm until very late. Hear the latest Latin tunes from the resident DJs.

Benny's Bistro
Benny's has become the venue for Salsa dancing to live latin acoustic music Of the 7-piece Buena Terra Band. Jl Dyana Pura, Seminyak. Enjoy the food the ambience and that infectious salsa rhythm.

Bush Telegraph
Live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, 9.30 -12pm. Situated in the heart of Seminyak's hot spot on Jl Dhyana Pura.

Cafe Del Mar
Jalan Dhyana Pura Gado-gado Seminyak. Cool cocktail bar, great drinks, relaxed atmosphere, funky music, open air, super smooth crowd. Open from 9 until late.

Café Exiles
in Pengosekan has a live band and is worth the visit. Local laws determine that live music at all bars in Ubud stop by 10:30pm.

Cafe Luna
Stylishly decorated with an Italian menu, indoor/outdoor seating and two bars make this a popular choice. Open until 2.30am, Jl. Raya Seminyak.

De Ja Vu
Same owner as Spy Bar. Newly opened with a fantastic interior design playing great tunes. Nice place to hang in the afternoon or the early cocktail hour.

Double Six
Open every night until 6am. The music is pure dance and there is always a good crowd. Opens at midnight it usually starts to fill up at around 1am. Three bars and late night pizzas. Open till sunrise. Entry cost Sunday - Friday Rp40.000, Saturday's Rp50.000. Featuring the only night bungee jumping in the world with AJ Hackett from 2.00am.

Espresso Pizzaria
Cover bands 7 nights a week from 10pm-2am on Jl Legian.

Euro Club
Situated on Jl 66, Seminyak. The latest DJ Music from 8pm till late.

Fidels
Fidel's cigar bar and lounge at the popular Ku De Ta restaurant. Jl Lasmana, Seminyak

Fuel
Award winning two storey club/restaurant in the heart of Kuta. One of the hottest house venues with resident and visiting DJ's.

Full Moon Parties
Usually held down Yang Yang Beach at Hotel Puri Bali and Padang Padang Beach sometimes held down in Nusa Dua. Check out our calendar for full moon dates.

Gado Gado
An excellence renovation of this ex-club now provides a stylish beachside setting. Well recommended. Jl Dhyana Pura.

Hard Rock Cafe
Located right on Kuta beach. The regular live bands draw big crowds. The bands are usually good. They start at 11pm and go until 2am.

Hard Rock Hotel - Center Stage
Bali's coolest unplugged bar with live bands nightly at center stage, from 7.30-11pm.

Hulu Cafe
Hulu Cafe is the only really gay bar in all of Bali. Okay, some of our non-gay friends stop in and join in the fun, but you won't have any hassles like in some other on-again, off-again venues in Bali. Live dance show Wednesday-Sunday 10pm till late. http://www.ozemail.com.au/~hulucafe/index.html

JP's
Stylish bar on Jl Dhyana Pura, offering live music Friday & Saturday nights from 8.30pm

Kama Sutra
Club restaurant and lounge. Happy hours each day from 9-11pm. Jl. Pantai, Kuta.

Kori Restaurant
Gg Poppies II - Relaxed & Cozy atmosphere, imported wines, chilled cocktails and ice cold beers. Cigar salon complete with a pool table, great place to spend an evening.

Ku De Ta
The newest talk of town with a great location, great food, cigar lounge and loads of style. Definitely somewhere to check out.

Lips
On Jl Seminyak. Live music Wednesday- Saturday from 10.30pm.

Liquid
Jl Dhyana Pura-The latest cool bar on this happening strip, with funky tunes and a killer cocktail list. The coolest illuminated bar.

Loco Bar
Situated on Jl 66, open 7 nights with special international DJ Wed-Sat, 10pm till late.

Lush
A comfortable lounge bar located on the corner of Jalan Kunti. Good place to chill out for a few aperitifs before proceeding on for the evening.

Maccaroni
Italian restaurant and club located on Jalan Legian. Starts from 11pm.

Millertime
Situated in the middle of town on Jl Legain with cover bands every Saturday night from 10pm-12pm.

My Way
Cover bands Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 9.30pm till 2am. On Jl Legian

Musro
Nightclub with spectacular cabaret shows. Located at Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel in Tuban from 10:30pm onwards.

Oxygen
Fantastic sounds kick from the bose sound system and freaky projections across the wall and ceiling upstairs sets the mood.

Paddy's Reloaded
A solid, no-frills pub set-up combined with reasonably priced cocktails and drinks. Located in front of Bounty.

Planet Hollywood
DFS Bali Galleria complex - Great burgers and grills to go with a long drinks list and excellent cinematic memorabilia.

Poco Loco
Jalan Padma Utama tequila shots and jugs of margaritas and make your own fajitas.

Q Bar
Abimanyu Arcade Jl Dhyana Pura, Seminyak. Bali's premier gay watering hole with alternative style DJ music nightly.

Santa Fe
Open 24 hours serving everything, need we say more.

Space Lounge
Jl. Dhyana Pura Seminyak. Bali's newest bar and lounge.

Spy Bar
This club has an indoor and outdoor vibe with top local DJ's - Jl Dhyana Pura

Stadium Café
Live cover bands each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9pm. Jalan Kartika Plaza, Kuta.

Sugar
Formerly Club Inc. A variety of funky music and drinks are served from 5pm until dawn.

Taj Mahal
Bar with a chill-out lounge and guest DJ's. Jl. Laksmana Seminyak.

The Oriental
The first and only exclusive cabaret theatre in Bali created by International Production Team. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and out standing performance. Be dazzled and entertained by the breathtaking and spectacular cabaret with our first class dancer, magnificent costumes, exiting music and the most beautiful and amazing female impersonators you have ever seen. Wednesday-Sunday 8.30pm. Jl. Srirama Legian Kuta-Bali Tel/Fax : 62-361-756-604

TJ's
Located in Poppies Lane famous for it's TJS Frozen Margaritas and great Mexican food. Has been in operation for 15 years.

The Bounty Ship 1 & 2
Both on Jalan Legian Kuta. Home to the famous "Jam Jar". A popular restaurant/bar/club. Bounty Ship 1 has a great DJ from 10pm until late everynight. Bounty Ship 2 is open 24 hours with 2 for 1 drinks from 5-7pm.

The Jaya Pub
Jalan Raya Legian Kaja Seminyak. Jaya Pub is an entertaining venue with an interesting blend of tourists and locals. Around for quite a few years it is still as popular as ever. The live bands are often joined by visiting musicians both professional and amateur. Open until 2am.

Venue at the moon
An elegant restaurant with lounge and bar. Serving cocktails and drinks with visiting DJ's and special theme nights.

Warung Music
Situated on Jl Raya Kerobokan with live music 7 nights a week, 9.30 till late.

Woodstock - "The Lounge"
Open 7am till late. Situated on Jl Oberoi, Seminyak. Good place to chill out.

Bali Spa Treatment Guide

2009-04-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

Body Massage, Mandi Lulur, Foot Massage, Body Scrubs...

The Balinese believe that the body is a sacred temple for the soul. Visit any Bali Spa for an experience that brings peace to the spirit, calm to the mind and vitality to the body.

Bali Spas offer many traditional treatments which use local herbs and healing oils. Balinese massage oil is usually made from extracts of ginger (jahe), frangipani (jepun), sandalwood (cendana) and coconut (kelapa).

Mandi Lulur

Among the traditional beauty remedies, Thalasso treatments with sea minerals and Indian Ayurvedic rituals is the famed Mandi Lulur massage. Meaning "lulur bath", the Mandi Lulur massage originated from Java, and was traditionally part of the Javanese prenuptial ceremony. This famous treatment is actually an exfoliating and body polishing exercise.

A paste of sandalwood, turmeric, ground nuts, rice and other scented woods is prepared, painted on to the body for exfoliating purposes and left to dry. The dried paste is then gently rubbed off. This process polishes and exfoliates the skin. After a hot shower, a yoghurt mix is spread over the body to restore balance to the skin. The Mandi Lulur ends with a warm flower-scented bath.

Foot Massage

Foot massages can be surprisingly relaxing. Releasing accumulated tension in the feet helps the entire body to release stress via the various pressure points located at a person's feet.

A foot massage begins with relaxing the feet in flower-scented water. Feet are then gently cleaned and rough and callous areas carefully scrubbed away with a natural volcanic pumice stone. This helps restore smoother touch and also rejuvenates skin growth.

The massage proper then begins by pressure being applied to specific areas of the feet to achieve total relaxation. The application of pressure to the feet's sensitive points relaxes muscles and improves blood circulation, apart from restoring energy to the entire body.

Traditional Body Massage

Bali's traditional body massage encompasses four types of massage, sensual, relaxing, body contour and the reviving massage.

The sensual massage uses carefully chosen oils essential to the massage - jasmine as mood enhancer, sandalwood to lift anxiety and depression, rose and ylang-ylang to balance mind and body creating a feeling of peace. The sensual massage makes the body feel warm and soothed and is extremely comforting after a stressful and tiring day. It also relieves nervous tension.

The relaxing massage is suitable for anyone, as its main focus is to create balance and harmony through cleansing. Among the essential oils are geranium, used for its uplifting effect as a natural anti-depressant; nutmeg, to relief muscular aches and pains, which aids blood circulation and digestion; and rose, to give a feeling of fulfillment and well being. This soothing massage emotionally heals and cleanses all ages.

The body contour uses lemon and patchouli, astringents, which when blended together, create an effect of well-being, and counter depression and anxiety. It's also useful for disappearing fluid retention. The massage is a natural detoxifying process with tremendous therapeutic effect. It is perfect for reducing cellulite, tightening skin and rejuvenating skin growth for a younger looking skin.

The reviving massage enables relaxation and general well being. The essential oils are ginger, which comforts the senses and aids memory; nutmeg, for a warm, stimulating, effect which also strengthens the immune system; and Eucalyptus for its cleansing and harmonising properties, capable of soothing nervous tension.

Back Massage

Bali's spas' back massages are a wonderful way to relieve muscle tension on the upper part of the body. A back massage starts with a soothing massage to warm up fingers, palm, hands to shoulder, neck and back areas. When the massage areas are warmed, massage oil is applied before proceeding with the full routine. This can be adapted to focus on areas according to individual needs.

Body Scrubs

Body scrubs, are great way to make smoother, cleaner and glowing skin. Natural extracts are used to help rid the body of rough patches by exfoliating. The massage focuses on dry patches of the elbows, knees, front of shins and elbows. For an optimum effect, this enjoyable scrub is best followed by a traditional massage.

Bali's spas also offer revitalising full body and facial treatments, sauna foot massage and manicure, pure volcanic mud baths, traditional Indonesian floral baths perfumed with essential oils, steam baths in exotic whirlpools and also swims in fresh water pools.

Bali Adventure Guide

2009-04-09T10:27:00.000-07:00

Whitewater Rafting in Bali

The spectacular Ayung gorge provides the setting for one of the most exhilarating of white water rafting adventures. The shallow winding river Ayung offers an adrenaline pumping ride with stops along the truly idyllic shoreline.

A number of experienced companies run by veteran river guides operate tours including the adventure specialists SOBEK who also operate mountain treks and cycling tours.

Bali Cycling Tours

A perfect way to see the countryside - these "gentle adventures" offer a ride through rainforest, ricefields and the Bali backwaters with a few climbs up one or two hills!

Local guides will give you an insight into Balinese rural life, customs and religion, en route. An excellent way to quietly slip into the Balinese lifestyle.

Trekking in Bali

Some places you simply can't take a bike.... like a volcano. Bali's ancient and rugged landscape is well represented by Danau Batur, also known as Gunung Batur. The volcanic cones of Gunung Batur are located in massive bowl-shaped calderas. The majestic Gunung Batur rises to a towering 1,717 metres, and remains one of Bali's natural wonders.

Best viewed in the early morning at sunrise, Gunung Agung Bali's highest and most revered mountain, is the island's ultimate trekking challenge. It is not difficult to climb, but you need a reasonable level of fitness. Start really early - a few hours before sunrise. You'll need a guide to take you up in the dark. The locals are well used to starting at 3am so don't worry. They'll show you a trick or two about avoiding loose shale under your feet, and even demonstrate how to boil an egg on the hot rocks!

Some of the locals (obviously triathlon candidates) will climb ahead of you (actually they whizz past) just to have a coke or water ready when you reach the top. They've made the effort to climb, so don't begrudge the slightly higher price for a drink! After all, how many people can say they sat on a volcano at sunrise and were waited upon?

Do remember to report to the police station at Selat before start off on your excursion, and drop by again on your return. A guide is necessary, and one can be pre-arranged in Selat or Muncan by just asking around the markets, or by contacting the Selat police station. (Bali's Forrests, Mountains & Parks)

Bali Waterfalls & Hot Springs

Splashing around... The cascading Gitgit Waterfalls close to Singaraja, present a spectacular 40 metres of crystal clear water rushing headlong into a seemingly bottomless pool. This alluring pool carries its own tale which can only be unlocked by a visit.

The Blahmantung Waterfalls in Pupuan takes long walk to reach but is really worth the effort. The Air Terjun Singsing west of Lovina, actually means Daybreak Waterfall, gushes will all the possibilities and strength of a refreshing brand new day.

Another spot well known for its waters are the pools of Yeh Sanih. The attractions here are freshwater springs channeled into clean and tempting swimming pools, amid charming garden surroundings.

The steaming Hot Springs of Banjar in south-eastern Bali are also worth a few days of heavenly soaking. Located close to the Brahmavihara Arama in Banjar, Bali's only Buddhist monastery, with a handsome structure offering inspiring views of land and sky meeting sea. (Bali Waterfalls & Springs)

Rambling & Adventure Challenges in Bali

Wandering around... It is truly a treat to be able to wander freely around the Bali Botanical Gardens in Bedugul, deep in the heart of northern Bali. Established in 1959, it is a rambling 120 hectares, high on the slopes of Tree Mountain; with a massive collection of trees; and five hundred species of exotic orchids!

Western Bali's Taman Nasional Bali Barat is a conservation park spread over almost the whole of the island's western tip. It is bordered by open savannahs, dense rainforests, tangles of mangrove swamps, and the colourful coral reefs of the renowned Deer Island, locally called Pulau Menjangan, habitat of the rare Java Deer.

Outward Bound, recognised in team building programmes offers high and low rope challenges over the Ayung river canyon together with a variety of other challenging team-building exercises.

Bali Horse Riding

Canter through ricefields, gallop on the beach or gently trot through villages. Organised by Umalas stables on a spectacular beach north of Kuta.

Ubud Restaurants

2009-04-09T10:11:00.000-07:00

Ubud's many restaurants probably offer the best and most interesting food on the island. You can get excellent western and Indonesian meals and authentic Balinese dishes. There are dozens of restaurants and warungs along the roads heading north of Jalan Raya, and along Jalan Sugriwa, Jalan Hanoman and Jalan Jembawan.

Right across the road is the Lotus Cafe. A leisurely meal over their lotus pond is still an Ubud institution. Casa Luna, with its superb international menu, is very popular, not least for its freshly baked bread and cakes. Two extremely popular places along Jalan Suweta are the Coconut Cafe and Cafe' Angkasa, which maybe Ubud's best coffee house.

Run by endearing Ibu canderi, Canderi's Warung serves generous portions. The Ibu Rai Bar & Restaurant, Noni orli, Lilies Garden Restaurant and Cafe' Bali all have an elegant setting and a worth the money. The Dian Cafe has a good range and affordable prices, and so does Jaya Cafe and Yogyakarta Cafe.

The new Bali Buddha Health Food Shop is a popular place to meet other travellers and relax with something healthy to eat or drink. Three Brothers Restaurant is one of several good places along Jalan Hanoman. For views, it's hard to beat. Charming but pricey is Murni's warung or Begger's Bush Pub.

Sanur Restaurants

2009-04-09T10:02:00.001-07:00

Sanur Bar & Restaurant - tempting meals and tantalising 3-course set menus while the Puri mango Guest House nearby has a restaurant serving a superb pizzas and value for money 3-course menus. Warang Wina, also called Vienna Cafe, along the northern end of Jalan Danau Tamblingan, offers reasonable prices and will definitely appeal to lovers of German cuisine. The Kuri Putih is a hit with its reasonably priced 'mexi-bali' food for lunch; and Taman Bayu has a range of generous main courses.

Other appetising and budget-satisfying places include the friendly Warung Balisun and Made's Kitchen, a charming and cheap place to grab snacks and drinks. Most of the walkway along central Sanur has cafes and restaurants like the Mango Bar & Restaurant, Benno's Corner Cafe and Sanur Beach Market & Bar Restaurant.

Kuta Beach Restaurants

2009-04-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

Places to eat in Kuta are really countless. There are tiny hawker's carts, gourmet hotel restaurants and well-known fast food outlets. Kuta also offers international and multicultural cuisine. You could stay in Kuta for a whole month, eat in a different place for every meal and still wouldn't eat the same thing twice!

If budget is a concern, try places catering to local workers, like food stalls or warungs along Legian Beach in the afternoon, and opposite Hard Rock Cafe in Kuta. These places serve filing yet delicious fare and you'll be assured of your money's worth.

Poppies is one of oldest and most popular restaurant in Kuta, located in a tiny lane between Jalan Legian and the beach. TJ's is the deservedly popular Mexican restaurant, has a good ambience and mouth-watering main courses.

Made's Warung, in the same area, is also popular while the Nusa Indah Bar & Restaurant is the perfect place for succulent seafood in a friendly atmosphere at very reasonable prices. The quaint Bamboo Corner is another good place to try seafood special. Service is friendly at Bali Asi.

There are almost endless possibilities along Jln Legian. Sushi Bar Kunti serves authentic Japanese set menus, the Espresso Bar & Pizzeria serves a hearty pizza in a pleasant setting; and the Gemini continues to get rave reviews for fragrant Chinese food. Or visit the Bounty II, a replica of the famous ship, for good-value buffets. Aroma Cafe is a mid-priced vegetarian restaurant with tantalizing food in a delightful garden setting. Or check out the Mama Lucia Italian restaurant.

Legian warung Kopi is well regarded for its varied menu of European, Asian and vegetarian dishes, hearty breakfast and sinful desserts. Taman Garden for its very popular and delicious meals, decent happy hours and effusive staff. This is one place which attracts lots of repeat business. Other good places are the ever popular but pricey Orchid garden Restaurant and the Garden Restaurant with an excellent happy hour and cheap breakfasts.

Joni Sunken Bar & Restaurant offers the unique experience of eating and drinking while semi-immersed in a swimming pool. They also have live music and good-value buffet breakfasts. Further north it gets more expensive but standards are higher at fashionable end of town. Some of the Bali's most interesting places are Mexican restaurant Poco Loco and Topi Koko Restaurant, with pretty good French cuisine. Swiss Restaurant is adjacent to the Swiss consul, so should have some credibility.

Chasing Wave Movie

2009-04-06T18:47:00.001-07:00

Finishing a film is a target, but winning in a festival is something unpredictable. That must have been what filmmakers Dave Arnold and Tyrone Lebon felt after their documentary film Mengejar Ombak (Chasing Waves) grabbed two awards at the X-Dance Festival in Salt Lake City, Utah last January.

The film won the awards for Best Original Music and Best Emerging Filmmakers at the X-Dance Festival, the sports documentary festival that runs in conjunction with the Sundance Film Festival.

Different from other films about surfing, the 45-minute film is more character-based as it unravels the life of professional surfer Dede Suryana from Cimaja, West Java.

Arnold, who had been making films as a hobby, met Dede when he went to Cimaja to go surfing for the weekend. He decided it would be a great idea to film the young surfer.

“Dede has an amazing talent and an incredible story. He started surfing when he was very young. He breaks the stereotype that often associates surfers with partygoers. He hardly goes out. I don’t see that in other surfers,” Arnold told The Jakarta Post recently.

The young Dede first tried surfing in 1993 at the age of 7, using a borrowed surfboard. Since there were no local good surfers, he learned the ropes from surfing videos. His natural talent propelled rumors about a young surfer in West Java with “supernatural” surfing powers.

In 1997, 12-year-old Dede went to Bali with his brother to compete in the Bali Open contest. The youngest competitor went home with the Rookie Award and made an impression on Rizal Tanjung, one of the famous Indonesian surfers, who hooked Dede up with a local sponsor.

Dede moved to Bali at 15. Although he had to juggle his school studies and his surfing, Dede won the Bali Pro Junior contest in his first year there.

“When I first came to Bali, it was a bit hard for me, because I’m a Muslim and Bali is predominantly Hindu. But difficulties exist in every stage of life, and I have just had to deal with them,” Dede said.

In 2003 he went to Hawaii – the birthplace of surfing – and impressed everyone by beating Kelly Slater, an eight-time world champion. He went on to win two gold medals at the Asian Beach Games held in Bali last year.

His aim is to compete in the World Qualifying Series in 2010.

Dede said that he agreed to participate in the film because he believed the movie would promote a good image of Indonesia internationally.

“Most people only recognize Bali as a surfing location, but we actually have a very long coastline and great waves in places such as Nias, in Aceh, Pangandaran and other beaches in the south. The film shows that Indonesia has much more than just natural disasters and unstable politics,” he said.

“When attending the film’s world premiere, I was afraid the audience would not like it because there is huge gap between our culture and their culture. But they were actually impressed with the simple lifestyle in Indonesia.”

Dede hoped the film would make the government pay more attention to surfing. Despite having big waves, Indonesia has yet to have many professional surfers because sports equipment is so expensive.

In a way, the film has shaped Dede.

“At first, I felt a bit odd to have Arnold and his team following me with cameras. They told me to just talk to the camera, without a script. However, it has helped me get used to interviews.”

The film, which started as an idea in 2004, was finally finished by the end of 2008, just a few days before being submitted to the festival. One of the things which slowed down the production process was the funding.

“We had to raise funds. We had other jobs in between the shoots and the money then went to finance the film. I don’t see us making a lot of money but things have started going fine,” Arnold said.

“I have plans to submit it to other festivals. Since winning the awards, I have been approached by many festivals, four in the United States, two in Australia and two in Europe so far. I plan to submit it to Asian film festivals and Muslim film festivals as well.”

As the film opens with a call to prayer from a small mosque in Dede’s hometown, the audience can follow Dede’s journey across five continents. The obstacles and triumphs along his journey come not only from the competitions, but also from his response to new places and cultures, the volatile situation in Indonesia, the financial gain and the growing attention he receives.

Moving from this central narrative, the film interweaves interviews with leading cultural, historical and industry figures to explore the underlying issues Dede’s story raises.

The film will be screened in Jakarta and Bandung’s Blitz Megaplex cinema group on April 29. The DVD will be released in June.

Closed by a score composed by The Epstein, Sam Murray and Tano Iozzi, the film gives the audience not merely a simplistic portrayal of a competition with winners and losers, nor is it a naïve tale of small-village heroes against the villains of globalization.

Rather, it is an insight into the life of a young man attempting to assimilate the challenges to his faith and identity, a personal story that gives the audience a wider vision of the changes occurring in many developing countries, such as Indonesia, today.

2009-04-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

2009-04-04T06:32:00.001-07:00

Bali, the land synonymous with paradise, is often the first choice for honeymooners and couples looking to rekindle romance in a gorgeous, spiritually soothing location. The idyllic tropical island is home to exquisite villas, eco-friendly hotels and divine luxury resorts.

The celebrated luxury travel company COMO Hotels and Resorts is dedicated to unparalleled guest services in gorgeous accommodations in the world’s most sought-after destinations. It should come as no surprise when you discover that Uma Ubud, the delicate Eden of a luxury resort in Bali, is a creation of the luxury travel pioneer.

The Oakley Pro Junior set to hit Port Alfred, South Africa

2009-04-04T06:16:00.000-07:00

Oakley Pro Junior

ASP Grade 2 Pro Junior Men's Event
ASP Grade 1 Pro Junior Women’s Event
East Beach, Port Alfred South Africa
1 - 3 May 2009

Oakley Pro Junior set to hit Port Alfred in May

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 13 March, 2009 : - - The Oakley Pro Junior will see the country’s top young surfers descend upon Port Alfred, South Africa from May 1-3, 2009 for the Grade 2 Junior Men’s and Grade 1 Junior Women’s events. East Beach will play host to the hottest surfing action in the country as the famed right-hander comes alive with the nation’s best junior surfing talents competing for their share of the R125,000.00 prize purse.

“We have moved the Oakley Pro Junior to Port Alfred as it is a world class wave and the surfers deserve to have the best waves to surf it out to make it into the final event in Bali,” said ASP World Tour surfer and Oakley Team Manager Greg Emslie.

“When I was a junior surfer we didn’t have too many contests aimed solely at younger surfers, so it’s great to see a world class event like this as it is crucial for junior surfing. As well as the contest we also have the Red Bull Expression which offers R10,000.00 in prize money for the most radical surfing, so you can be sure the juniors will go big!”

The inaugural girls division will be the first ever ASP Africa sanctioned Pro Junior Women’s event in South Africa, finally giving junior female surfing some of the competitive recognition it deserves. In addition to the massive R10,000.00 on offer to the winner, the Oakley Pro Junior serves as the first of two counting events to select which female will represent South Africa at the World Pro Junior Championships in Australia.

As the breeding ground for the likes of young gun hot-shots such as ASP Women’s World Tour rookie Sally Fitzgibbons and multiple ASP Women’s World Champion Stephanie Gilmore, this event is the ultimate place for x-chromosome surfers to truly test out their surfing artillery on the world stage.

Shaun Joubert, winner of the Oakley Pro Junior event in Durban last year, has confirmed that he will be returning to defend his title, and is thrilled with the change of venue. “I'm super stoked,” said the 18 year-old Oakley team rider, “Port Alfred is a sick place and I really enjoy surfing East Beach so it should be good. I’m definitely amped to hold on to the title and make it two in a row. That’s definitely the goal, but I’m just going to go out there and give it my best shot and see what happens.”

Joubert, who went on to a phenomenal third place finish in the 2008 Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge in Bali, will face tough competition from the likes of last year’s runner up Nick Godfrey (Cape St Francis), Cape Town junior sensation Matt Bromley and the talented Natal duo of Klee Strachan (Winkelspruit) and Chad du Toit (Durban).

After losing to Joubert in the 2008 quarterfinals, fellow Oakley team rider Chad du Toit is enthusiastic to claim the 2009 Oakley Pro Junior title for himself, as well as take home the incredible R25,000.00 winner’s cheque.

“Port Alfred is a wave that everybody loves,” said the talented natural-footer. “It’s got a lot of push which allows for high performance surfing so I am really looking forward to the event. It’s going to be very important to make the final in Port Alfred so that I can get into the final Oakley Pro Junior in Bali as that is the most prestigious event and the biggest prize purse in world junior surfing!”

Port Alfred local Lungani Memani, fresh off a victory at the Border Surfing Trials, is determined to carry through his winning form into this event. “I’m stoked because I’ve always wanted to have one of those big contests here,” said the Oakley team rider. “East Beach is one of the best waves in South Africa. I surf with Nick Godfrey, Shaun Joubert and the rest of the junior guys all the time and hopefully I’ll be able to get a good result because it’s my home break and I know the wave better.”

Memani has been focusing on his fitness and fine-tuning his quiver of boards to best prepare him for the 2009 contest season. “I’ve been training – if I’m not surfing I’m running, doing push-ups and all that. Last year I wasn’t fit enough and wasn’t training enough, and I also didn’t connect with my boards too well. I’m stoked because I’ve got a good bunch of boards and I’m feeling in shape right now.”

Eastern Cape surf star and South African Masters division runner-up Warwick Heny, himself a member of the South African Junior team in 1992, was very excited about watching South Africa’s best young surfers at his home break. “Hopefully the local talent will be able to perform well,” said Heny “as this event is a good opportunity for them to compete against the best junior surfers in the country. The Port Alfred youngsters don’t often get to see the quality of surfing that we can expect from the Oakley Pro Junior, so it should be a great event for everyone involved.”

“We must say thanks to Fanie Fouche, Environmental Officer at the Ndlambe Municipality who was very helpful in seeing this event come together,” added Heny, “and we hope that this event will realize their vision of boosting tourism and help put Port Alfred on the map.”

On top of the lucrative winner’s cheque, the two Junior Men’s finalists are granted entry into the prestigious 2009 Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge held in Bali from 7-17 October. “The final event in Bali is what the surfers are fighting for,” said Greg Emslie. “The surfer who wins there is regarded as the next big thing in the surfing world, so the juniors will be pushing the limits in Port Alfred to make sure they make it into top two spots.”

Worldwide, the Oakley Pro Junior series offers a total prize purse of $165,000 with $75,000 on the line at the final event. The $20,000 cheque for winning the Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge in Bali is the biggest first-place prize in junior surfing.

Surfing legend Kim 'Fly' Bradley dies in Bali

2009-04-04T06:13:00.001-07:00

KUTA, Indonesia (AFP) — Australian surfing pioneer Kim "Fly" Bradley died last week at his home on Bali, the Indonesian island he surfed almost alone in the early 1970s. He was 54.

His daughter, Dewi Bradley, said he died on March 26, a spiritual holiday for Balinese Hindus known as the "Day of Silence."

Family members found him two days later, in his favourite room in the house he built overlooking Kuta beach, she said.

The surfing legend and father-of-two from Sydney had battled skin cancer for years but the official cause of death had not been determined.

"My father had long suffered from skin disease, but the cause of death will be issued in two weeks by the hospital," Dewi told AFP, adding that her father, a convert to Hinduism, would be cremated at the end of April.

Fair-skinned and fair-haired, Bradley grew up surfing Sydney's northern beaches in the 1960s before the days of effective sunscreen.

In his later years his condition was so bad he was unable to venture out in the sun, let alone on to the waves, so he busied himself with surfboard design and shaping.

Known as "the Fly" because of his small stature, Bradley claimed to have made the first surfboard built in Indonesia and later started a successful clothing business with his Balinese wife, Made.

His friend, Dian Hadiani, said he would often talk about his early days on Bali when he surfed the famous breaks of Dreamland, Nusa Dua and Balangan alone, having flown to the island on a whim in 1974 aged just 19.

"The last time I met him was a week before he died. He hugged me tightly and quite long. He then gave me a pile of his diaries and photos and asked me to keep them," she said.

"I didn't find anything wrong with his health -- he smoked cigarettes as usual."

In a 2007 interview with "Surfer's Path" magazine, Bradley recalled the excitement of exploring Bali's huge offshore breaks with a small group of other surfers.

"We had to work it out for ourselves... there's like 26 breaks or something on the Bukit Peninsula now, but when I came we knew of two," he was quoted as saying.

"Paddling out at 12 foot (four metres) Nusa Dua by yourself... even at eight foot it's pretty scary.

"You're looking out there and it's 10-12 foot but it's too good to resist so I'd say a quiet word to myself and my master: 'Well if it's today, it's a good day to die.'

"If I die standing up in a 12-foot barrel, if the master says it's my time to go... then what a way to go."

Mavericks Surf Contest officially off; earlier start targeted

2009-04-04T05:59:00.000-07:00

After much wishful thinking in recent weeks, the Bay Area's big-wave surfing bash was finally caught in the undertow, getting called off today for the second time in three years.

Fortunately for the Mavericks Surf Contest, it doesn't appear to be the type of violent, oxygen-depriving wipeout its namesake break is famous for.

Organizers are looking at ways to sidestep poor wave-producing winters, namely opening the window Nov. 1 to take advantage of the North Pacific's meteorological sweet spot. The sponsors who put up a record $150,000 in prize money are expected to remain on board for next year.

And, perhaps most important in the eyes of the 24 invited surfers, the sanctity of a modern natural wonder wasn't compromised.

"Everyone I talk to says the same thing: If it's not absolutely solid, just don't even do it," contestant Zach Wormhoudt of Santa Cruz said recently.

In previous years, the contest window opened in November or December. But this event got off to a tardy start — early January — when the pre-recession ripples made it difficult to lock in sponsorship commitments.

By the time a promising mid-January swell had fizzled along the San Mateo coast, those who track Mavericks' every hiccup were doubtful a contestable swell would emerge before the March 31 deadline. A La Niña condition had put its clamps on the storm track, shutting down all but a few pulses for the California coast and Hawaii.

"It's going to be tough. The models just don't look very good at all," official Mavericks surf forecaster Mark Sponsler said at the time.

When the predictions proved accurate, and a swell targeting Northern California for Monday emerged, organizers hoped to extend the contest window another week.

But today, the white flag was waved — largely because of environmental concerns expressed by the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. It was feared bringing thousands out to the coast for the one-day event during the breeding season for seabirds and marine mammals could have a negative impact.

"The presence of listed and vulnerable species, newly born harbor seal pups, migrating whales, and nesting birds make April a particularly sensitive time," GFNMS Superintendent Maria Brown said in Mavericks press release. "Any wildlife disturbance by boats, people on foot, and aircraft can result in mortality. Wildlife conservation is a concern throughout the entire year, but especially serious consequences can result if vulnerable species are not able to breed successfully at critical times during the year, including right now."

Even without the environmental concerns, the swell models examined by Sponsler and others suggest the storm will track too far north to target Mavericks and probably be accompanied by chop-inducing north winds. Instead, organizers will set their sights on a Nov. 1 start seven months from now.

Mavericks Surf Ventures CEO Keir Beadling said increased sponsorship commitments from others beyond Campbell-based Barracuda Networks and Moose Guen of MVision will be key in extending the window.

"It is my hope that the additional sponsorship support we'll need to officially announce a Nov. 1 opening will be forthcoming," Beadling said via e-mail. "I'm working on that."

Only five significant swells — energy masses that have enough size and duration to create mountains of water at Mavericks — pushed through all winter. During the average winter, the storm track produces three times that amount. And the bullish El Niño years of the late 1990s would produce upwards of 30.

"The worst year ever," contest director Jeff Clark called it in March.

But throwing a big-wave surf contest is largely an act of faith. The window for the Eddie Aikau Invitational on Oahu's North Shore closed in February, leaving the event grounded for the fifth consecutive year. In its 23 years of existence, the Eddie has been contested only seven times.

NYEPI DAY ( The Day of Silence )

2009-03-23T07:21:00.001-07:00

The Day of Silence

Nyepi day is indeed. On this day fasting done Nyepi called "Catur Brata" Penyepian and consists of the observed Geni (no light or fire), the paper observed (not working), lelungan observed (not travel), and observed lelanguan ( do not listen to entertainment). Brata done this since before sunrise. According to the Hindu nation, all of the transition, always start with dark omen. For example a baby who will be turning to children (1 oton / 6 months), the symbol of this transformed with 'matekep guwungan' (closed cage chicken). Women who move from childhood to adulthood (Ngeraja Sewala), ritual didahului with ngekep (dipingit). Thus for the new, adopted a newborn, that is really starting a new page with a white net. To start living in caka / new year also, this is basic, so there is the observed Geni.

Essence of the omen-the omen of birth (observed Geni), according to Lontar "Sundari Gama" is "make heart clean from evil ", which is a requirement for the Hindu.
Each person berilmu (the wruhing tattwa jñana) perform Brata (repression carnality), yoga (paramatma connect with the spirit (of God), Tapa (exercise endurance suffering), and samadi (be united to God, the goal is finally inward purity of birth).

All it becomes imperative for the people that have a Hindu spiritual readiness to face any challenges of life in the new year. Celebrate the feast day habit with the town, casino, drunk-mabukan is something false and habits must be changed.

Cheap Hotel in Kuta

2009-03-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

Legian Village Hotel

If you are looking for cheap hotels in Bali, there is no one to book a room at the Legian Village hotel. The hotel is very comfortable and also quite cheap, which clearly will not pocket all the fish in your pocket. Price rooms start from 185,000 RP per night.

Sinar Indah Beach Cottage

Another inexpensive choice hotel in Kuta which can save your travel budget. The hotel is called Hotel Sinar Indah. In addition to the cheap fare (Rp 185,000 per night), this hotel also has a service that is quite familiar hipnotis able to return your stay at this hotel

Hotel Prani Legian

Still in the area of Legian, a cheap hotel that is suitable as a place of rest, the Prani Legian Hotel. Although the number of rooms that are not too many, but the hotel is able to become a hotel on the tourists. Rates start from Rp 185,000 per night.

Dewa Bharata Bungalow

Dewa Bharata Bungalow, jasmine cheap hotel in Kuta that promise a full service family by the staff friendly and ready to help you at any time. Located in a fairly strategic location and easy access. Room rates Rp. 220,000 /night.

New Surfing Style

2009-03-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

Today is my day off , this morning I went to play surfing with my friends at kuta beach.kuta beach is near my home, it spend 20 minutes to go to kuta beach, my friend and I ride a motorcycle to destination.when I arrived in the beach, waves began to tide and wind are friendly also creating waves so that big, but before play surfing I must stretching my muscle cramps that do not occur on the feet or hands when I play surf .

I finally ready to play surf, I just go to the beach and began to paddle to a place to wait for the waves . Ago dating waves big wave come, and I start to paddling,after that I quikly to stand up and started to maneuver, I am very excited to play surfing today because so many big waves.

I try to surf a variety of styles ,at the time I want to stand on my surf board slip and fall over sedimented surf board that I still skim over the waves, a friend of my friend thinks it is a new style of surfing.

Panaitan Island

2009-03-15T02:09:00.000-07:00

Panaitan. May not know much about this place. Located in the West, precisely the area of forest nasionla in Ujung Kulon. To reach it, the need to struggle not easy. From the Soekarno Hatta airport, Jakarta, takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours to reach the Charita. Charita and then go from Panaitan.

Actually there are two alternative to reach this place, that is using the slow and fast boat. With the fast boat to travel around this place, 2 to 2.5 hours, while when using a slow boat a little longer between 4.5 to 5 hours of course in good weather.

Islands that can be Empty Island this course has a variety of natural advantages. Apart from the flora and fauna which is rare spisies, but also the number of point-point with the waves that can be said back door hawainya Indonesia, such as Palm One, NAPALM, Pussy Cat, Illusions, Indicator, Croc n 'Rolls, Anggel, Bombies, and Apocalypse. Point and the most famous of all is the One Palm, NAPALM, and Apocalypse. Even in 1994, made this place as a film location syuting surf the bertitle Second Thought. This film is very different from the other surf film, because in it, does not only show ombaknya and surfernya intensity, but also the struggle of the entire film crew who lived there for five days, because running out of food, so they have to drink the rain water and fishing to survive live. So do not wonder if this film will eventually get the award.

But now, for the surfer who wants to try to wave point-the point is in the Panaitan seems tidaki need to worry, because with Java Ecorino Tour is not all obstacles can be resolved. Start of Transportation, food, and lodging. In fact, if you have an adventurous spirit, this place appeared to have a challenging location tracking. Travel packages offered by travel agents have this two options, namely 5 to 7 days. 10 days and 9 nights, the second package to include around West Java.

Many Beach In Bali

2009-03-10T02:46:00.000-07:00

Kuta beach (white sand beaches)

The most famous beach in Bali. Travelers who vacation in Bali will never forget to pay a visit to Kuta beach, especially at the time the sun will go down. Kuta Beach is one of the places in Bali to see the panoramic view down the sun than the Pura Uluwatu, Pura Tanah Lot Jimbaran beach or. We can imagine every day, especially in the afternoon Kuta beach will be filled with domestic and foreign tourists, forward sunset, swim, or just walking along the beach edge. Which make this beach is also famous the wave high enough to do the water sports especially surfing (surfing). No wonder that along the coast we can easily see who rented a surfboard. You want to try?

Legian and Seminyak beach (white sand beaches)

Located in the north of Kuta beach, this beach provides the same feel of the Kuta beach. Just because the location was quite far from the center of Kuta, Legian beach visitors and not as much as in Seminyak Kuta beach. However, there is no one if you like the place that is not too crowded, this beach is the right choice for a sit-sit to enjoy the evening atmosphere Legian and Seminyak beach.

Jimbaran Beach (white sand beaches)

Beach scene with a slightly different from Kuta beach, Legian or Seminyak except panoramic sun down. Visible in the distance many boats are traditional fishing boats and also have a traditional hired by the tourists because of the surfing waves ideal for surfing the somewhat remote location, not on the beach as well as the Kuta beach. At the end of the north coast have Jimbaran fish market that sells a wide variety of fresh fish. Jimbaran beach is also very popular with the restaurant menu with the typical cuisine of the sea. There are about 24 restaurants in Jimbaran beach is never quiet with visitors who want to enjoy cooking as well as panoramic sea beach is beautiful.

Beach Uluwatu, Dreamland and Padang-padang (white sand beaches)

Beach with a high wave. Each day we will see the surfer or peselancar ago thatch to third place for the hobby of them.

Nusa Dua beach (white sand beaches)

South island of Bali, also has beaches exotis, one of which is the beach of Nusa Dua. Not surprising because almost all the hotels along the beach this hotel is a luxury hotel or a five-star luxury.

Sanur beach (white sand beaches)

Sanur area is a regional / rural tourism first developed in Bali, and to this day we still can see and feel the peaceful atmosphere of rural areas compared with the other tour. Sanur Beach is a coastal land that is ideal for swimming, playing or just walking looking for sea shells, especially at low tide we could walk to the far-reaching in around 400 meters from the beach lips.

Tanjung Benoa beach (white sand beaches)

This is a very popular beach with water sports activities such as parasailing, windsurfing, glass bottom boating, waterskiing, jet skiing and many more. And if you want to visit turtle island, where we can see many places penangkaran it, the event usually starts from Tanjung Benoa Beach with the boat, beneath which there is a section with the glass so that we can easily see the marine biota.

Candi Dasa beach (white sand beaches).

Approximately 2 hours drive to the east of Bali island, you will see an area that is quite familiar with Candi Dasa beach that mesmerize. Activities that are generally done in this area is snorkeling and diving.

Amed and Tulamben Beach (beach with black sand and berbatu)

Not many can we do along the coast because this is very dry and berbatu, but the bottom of the marine and also very captivating keramah-tamahan local residents to make this beach dikinjungi many tourists.

Lovina Beach (black sand beach)

The beach is very popular in the north island of Bali in which we can see in the natural lumba-lumba/dolphin free them.

OAKLEY PRO JUNIOR GLOBAL CHALLENGE

2009-03-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

Hawaii Surfer origin aged nineteen years, Dusty Payne last won the prestigious contest, Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge and mengantongi biggest prize ever offered in a surfing contest, the junior level of USD 20,000.

In the final forty-five minutes, Dusty Payne dealt with the original French surfer Marc Lacomare. They were blessed by waves 6-8 ft Beach shampoo is perfect with so many barrels, to memperebutkan total prize of USD 75,000 for this event take place.

This was the first victory for Dusty Payne in the period of more than eight years. Get in the way this victory so sweet. He showed no difficulties. He even succeeded in printing the highest value. According to the condition of shampoo, especially in the final days enggak far different from the wave conditions in the origin, Maui, Hawaii.

"I'm very happy to sweep this event. Once it has been my enggak never won the contest. But I never enggak despair and continue to participate in the contest, while the ability to train. ", Said the champion.

In the final round felt extremely tense, enggak only for the two finalists for the audience on the beach. Combination of the two best waves, Dusty Payne successfully obtain the value of 16.27 to leave lawannya Marc Lacomare in figure 14.33. Dusty Payne itself acknowledges that victory was surprising. During the final, he had left behind in the original acquisition value because Marc Lacomare get good waves. But it did not break enthusiasm. With patience he continued the search for better waves. Fortunately he get some waves that allow for some radical maneuver.

After completing the final, Marc Lacomare confess quite satisfied with the results of the didapatnya. "Although enggak win, I get a value that is quite good and can beat some of the best young surfer around the world. Dusty Payne is a very spectacular surfing throughout this event. Dealing with it in the final round is enough glory., "Said surfer origin Hossegor-France this. As runner up, he is entitled mengantongi money of USD 7500.

Elections on the waves is one of the key to success for Dusty Payne. In the previous semi-final first Dusty Payne surf with the strategy that was successful enough terrific struggle topple Australia surfer origin, Mitch Crews. Dusty Payne with patient waiting for the best waves and eventually menghadiahinya value of 9.00 from the second wave which is a barrel. At the time remaining for ten minutes, he re-print the value of 8.50 and led the acquisition value. Natural footer with tear relaxing beach waves shampoo is clean.

While in the second semi-final, Marc Lacomare easy enough with the original South African surfer Shaun Joubert with the acquisition number 17.00 against 15.97 number.

Position by the next place the origin of Brazilian duo Miguel popo and Peterson Crisanto, closed with a surfer origin Kuta Made 'Garut' Widiartha and Nick Godfrey who came from South Africa. Each gets the prize of USD $ 3,500.

Qualifying Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge 2008 has been held since February. With a total of six events, starting at North Stradbroke, Queensland (Australia), followed by the event at New Pier, Durban (South Africa), Lower Trestles, San Clemente, California (USA), Itamambuca Beach, Ubatuba City, Sao Paulo (Brazil) , Point-Shidashita Chiba (Japan), and Grand Plage, Lacanua-Gironde (France). The surfer who qualified in each country the opportunity to attend this final event in Bali, where on 6 October 2008 was held for the trial phase of the Indonesian surfer.

How To Choosed Surfboard

2009-03-08T12:06:00.000-07:00

From Hawaii | Surfing comes from the culture of the native Hawaii. In the beginning, because made of wood, quality surf board can reach 35 kg. Long board surf ancient ranges between 3 meters to 6 meters. Nowadays, surf board making technology has developed rapidly. Styrofoam is made from coated fiberglass, quality surf board has been reduced dramatically with the length ranging between 1.8m to 3.6m. Not only is the raw material change, surf board design is also experiencing many changes. Here below is a guide to select the type of surf board based on the needs.

Size | In general, based on the size of surf boards can be divided into 2, length (longboard) and short (shortboard). Longboard normally used by the beginners, because it is easier for the naiki. Shortboard, on the other hand, more difficult to be climbed, but is suitable for use during the maneuver. Shortboard normally used by the more experienced surfer.

Form | surf board with the form of stretching and lines have the rigid, tend to be more suitable for use in a large sea waves and fast. While the surf board that has more lines and rounded berkurva, tend to be slow, but is perfect for the surfer who like to maneuver.

Construction | There are several types of surf board construction, depending on how the making of the surf board. The cheapest and most suitable for a beginner surf board is printed with the printing machine. Next, for the middle-level surfer surf board is printed with the injection technology. Surf board with injection technology, more bobotnya light from a surf board with the printing machine to print normal. In addition to the two types are, there's more some kind of surf board used by the serious surfer, the Salomon S-Core surfboard, surfboard PU and custom shaped surfboard.

Design | Based on design, surf boards can be categorized into 4 types. Thruster is the first type, short surf board that is used to maneuver. Malibu is the second type, surf board length that is used for the beginners. Type next adlaah Fish, surf board that has a shape resembling Trhuster with a surf board length shorter. Gun is the latest type, with a surf board shape resembles Thruster, but have a long board surf longer. Gun used to wave a really very big.

Keramas Beach

2009-03-07T11:57:00.000-08:00

Surfer dozen local and foreign menjajal beach waves shampoo in the competition titled Surfing Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge, which was held starting on Monday (5 / 10) kemann to Friday (17/10) future. In action Monday yesterday, Kuta surfer origin Garut Widiarta successfully beat fellow surfer sedaerahnya in during the final twenty-five minutes.

In the 2-3 meter waves at the beach shampoo, Gianyar, as many as 17 vie for the surfer memperebutkan wild card to be able to follow the international competition bentaraf Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge that will take place on 7 - October 17, future.

In the competition yesterday at the difference between the value surfer strict enough. Besides having the ability to balance, the two best values among the Garut Raditya have the same value. However. Garut finally get a greater value in the three best waves, so have the right to represent Indonesia Garut with colleagues and Indonesia, Seedwell Yuki, the main event for the Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge.
"I do not think can win the event mi. Raditya is a strong contender because of its backside tricks very well. I feel lucky because the waves get better, "said Garut.

With the victory mi times, Garut opportunity to be able to follow the main event Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge is the main form of memperebutkan prize money of USD 20,000 is the largest prize ever offered by a pro junior event in the world. Total gifts for this event alone is worth USD 75,000.
Previously, Oakley International has a series of six this time held in Australia, the United States, Brazil, Japan, France, and South Africa as black-qualifications. Chosen Bali as the final event for Bali has a stable wave conditions and also has the quality of the waves. Tipi Jabrik - pro surfer who is also a Director-Contest seems quite satisfied with the competition.

In the main event later on, there will be 18 different countries that surfer menjajal ganasnya beach waves shampoo. Are those who successfully won the qualifying in each country.
Format of this competition will also take the system man-on-man used in the World Championship Tour. Ten-day event will be presented in the shampoo at the beach will provide best waves. Beach shampoo itself has become a place diselenggarakannya some surfmg international competition because the surfer can perform a variety of maneuver in any situation.

They Live From The Wave

2009-03-06T11:41:00.000-08:00

Surfing is not a part of the integral activity of the beaches in Bali. Communities surfer growing. Extreme sports that are now not simply a hobby distribution. Drape life of surfing is not a dream anymore.

Kuta Beach roller try by tens surfer (peselancar), when the blazing afternoon sun so that sting. Together with colleagues of the team, Made yunus, 25 years old, charming select best waves to play in the semifinal round one day. Made and his friends attempt to serve the best appearance before the five-person jury that the distance of hundreds of meters.

At the start position, a number of other surfer look flushed. There is a shout, clap, whistle, to encourage colleagues to make it to the middle. No suporter fanatics. All clamant, encourage all participants in the event of competition surfing Kuta Karnival 2006 is. Shrill voice from the top commentator penjurian tent, add color.

Sound shrill whistle sounded when an hour passed. Foreshadow the end of the round that will only be four teams to enter the final round. budiarsa avoid running slow sea. "Failure," he said while shake. dispointed clearly visible in the face of the surfer since a year ago has become a raider surf the Oakley brand. Made and four colleagues one of his team are so Oakley, must confess defeat team from Bali Barrel, Volcom, Quick Silver, and Cult. They must be satisfied not to enjoy the waves in the final round.

Defeat in a competition, it is normal for many people. But not for budiarsa. Understand, he was not merely for themselves. Since a year later, precisely since Oakley was appointed as a raider, he should always carry frill Oakley. Surf the international brand must always be taken and kept Made in every opportunity. Following each competition surfing and trying to a winner, compensation on a range of facilities it receives.

Being a raider surf brand, is an achievement for the Bali surfer. Achieving that is the door to a world-class surfing competitions. His facilities are a raider can surf brand mempermulus international routes. Not only has the right surfing equipment, the raider is also right to honor the value is not small. Opportunity to follow the international surfing competition in and outside the country, also opens wide for the raider.

The development of sports surfing in Bali, it can not be released from the presence of many foreign brands in the surf gods this island. Adrenalin sport that trigger this has now become a favorite of young people many local Bali. Not even a few of them that make surfing as a major livelihood. Community surfer also appear on many beaches throughout Bali. Where there are good waves, the surfer situlah in the assembly.

Surfer old home Kuta, Ketut Menda, 45 years old, that happy with the development of sports surfing in Bali. Known long before surfing in Bali, according to Menda, the small child Kuta fishermen have been colored with the game challenging waves. Maserupan, so he always mentions surfing game with only a small wooden board when it. "Then we know that his name not surf," he said.

New in the 1970s, some foreign tourists to come to Kuta with a surf board. "I think of what the. Wrapped. He said at that time, to play in the water, "Menda reminded that, when still aged 10 years. Since then also, Menda and some children start fishing Kuta and try to cacth waves with surf boards. The days, more and more children are interested in Kuta with this sport.

View is to the sloping was surfing activity when initial in Kuta. Besides votes dangerous, many parents point surfing as the activity is not useful. "His has been found that the absorbed wave, surfer sometimes forget everything. Forgot hungry, do not care about the night. Once the surf, we are so addicted. Dancing on the waves is heaven, "so Menda.

Bath Maxims, dogs bark the caravan stay away, the surfer who only hold a few during the course play. Invite colleagues for their sepermainan. Surfers build a community that continues to grow each year. "We teaching children play Kuta surfing. Now the growth of extraordinary. And now evident, surfing can also generate (income), "he said.

Surf get started since the competitions held many surf. Despite iming-iming prize offered is not how big competitions that successfully build the next-generation-new generation surfers Bali. Opportunity to compete is wide open since the entry of several foreign surf brands such as Quiksilver and Billabong to Bali since 1991. "The surf brand have increased foreign interest and excite people in Bali surfing," I Ida Bagus Rai, Secretary Bali Surfing Association (BSA). Rai noted, there are now approximately 1500 local Balinese surfer who was 33 at the beach in Bali.

Surfing is now not only be a hobby, but also the support of life. If you can show achievement, then hang out a living from surfing not dream anymore. His salary is not generally offered little. it calculate reach tens of million rupiah per year. "Now there are about 200 surfer who has a sponsor. Most of the surf brand. There are also other products such as cigarettes, beverages, and other, "said Rai who was already stopped since 11 years ago and is now active as a jury in a variety of competition surfing. Life of surfing has become a choice of many Balinese surfer. But of course, there are risks that must be certified. When companies require raidernya play, perforce they must play. "Challenge of death also must be run. Already at risk, "the Rai.

Many reasons that make the surf brand raider. General Manager Oakley Indonesia, mr erwin, explains, raider was appointed as ambassador to promote the Oakley products. Therefore, there are many responsibilities that must be done raider. Among them, raider must keep surfing and try to appear better from time to time, and of course all the accessories required to use every opportunity at Oakley. There is no other brand competitors stick to the raider in the body each day. That is, raider must be truly loyal to the products Oakley. Raider also obliged to follow all the surfing competition, both in and abroad. Of course, all competition was facilitated by the company. Thus, raider only need to prepare physically and mentalnya to win the competition.

"This is the latest from Oakley glasses. Equipped with MP3. Thus, we can hear the latest tracks with the glasses, the "Mickey berpromosi funny glasses that dipakainya problem. That made Oakley since become a raider. everyday not only busy with the activities of surfing, but also about the accessories-berpromosi the use of accessories. But the man who started his career surfingnya of class gromet at age 8 years, do not feel sad. made is enjoying. Moreover, he also get the opportunity to appear in dozens of foreign media partner Oakley, the more competition, to a surfing holiday to Hawaii, Japan, and the Oakley headquarters central United States. "We are not only directed raider so athletes, but also artists," said erwin.

Surfer who had been a professional class, is a team sport incaran marketing company from surf brand. But it does not mean the surfer beginners have no chance. Yuki Seedwell for example. Adolescent blesteran Bali-Australia has been contracted two weeks this Oakley, although he has not been entered in the range pro surfer. "Although not a pro, so we adopted him raider because we see her potential and have a high spirit," erwin explains. Yuki own previously also been contracted for a year by other surf brand, Billabong. "I want to find support. Want to be supported, met many people, and so pro surfer, "said the youth learn surfing since the age of 6 years, it's plain.

Get a full sponsor of the Oakley gear, not enough Mickey and Yuki. While surfing get all the complete accessories from Oakley, Mickey and Yuki apparently still have a notion. "You can sponsor board (surfboard)," said Mickey, Yuki dibalas pitching. His surf board prices are still outrageously high quality tower for both.

The limited economic capability, according to Ketut Menda, has become one of the factors that hinder local Balinese surfer majunya. "Many surfer who play good, but do not have a surf board. If we can make in the Bali surf board itself, "Menda demolished. Menda style surf board that the price reached more than Rp 6 million, is still too expensive for the pocket surfer-surfer Bali. As a result, many a surfer using a surfboard with the quality of the pickup. If not disumbang surf board used by bule, at most they buy with the cheap price. "Usually is not in good condition, has been broken in pieces," he said.

Surfing equipment is far from feasible, make Bali surfer often lose the surfer-surfer foreign. "Main us often, but rarely win," said the man who is now a raider Quicksilver. However, means that the surfer is not always in Bali last position. Many Balinese surfer who was also successful at the international level. I Gusti Made Oka Sulaksana, 35 years old, one of them. Surfer this one seems to have been with the victory-victory diraihnya. Oka has become a contributor for the medal, both at the championship level of Southeast Asia, and Asian level. The latest, early September, he achieved great success in the series of World Championship Surfing in Korea. He now mengincar middle of the gold medal at the Asian Games in Qatar in 2006.

Oka Sanur Bali is home, happy to see that the development of surfing in Bali. Generation of extreme sports according to him this is so abundant. In Sanur area only, it is estimated there are about 300 surfer. Although according to him, never have the surfer actually only lived in one location that same surfing. "Where there are good waves, where we play," he explained.

Surfing activity likely never be released daily from the beaches in Bali. In fact, this event opened many locations new coastal tourism. Not only Kuta and Sanur, there are many beautiful beaches in the corners of Bali which is found and given names by the foreign surfer. Start from Dreamland Beach, Padang-padang, Bingin, and Suluban the berbatu in the north area of South Beach shampoo in the eastern part, to the Medewi Beach in the West Bali. For the surfer, waves is heaven. They will continue menaklukannya, showing the achievement, and hope there is surf brand that cock. So that the achievements do not stop because of minimal support.

Pacitan Surf Club

2009-03-05T11:33:00.000-08:00

Pacitan Surf Club (PSC) to surf contest on the beach Srau Pacitan a distance of 30 minutes from the town of Pacitan. This contest is held by children of Pacitan. And in this contest, there were also some participants who become committee cluster alias ... hehehe The event this time was more relaxed because there are some series of events including:

Surfing Contest
Film-film and drama films surf.
Bakti Sosial (for for-sembako)
Training and introduction of Surfing.

The contest took place is very gay, children and youth Srau Beach makes us most proud, and add kemeriahan contest, this is the response from the community is very enthusiastic. Saturday afternoon contest elimination round begins.

community-berbondong crowd to see a contest that has been started from the day. Although mentari very fierce, they are willing to leave the activity as farmers and fishermen to watch the contest. Indeed, surfing is not yet familiar with them (residents Paacitan and Srau). We (PSC) is often Srau trip to the beach, but they do not know about how to surf it. After we introduce and provide training in surfing, and the good response we received. They (children) are very excited to try to rise above Board. Similarly in the night we play the film. All the villagers gather to watch a film that we 20.00WIB hour schedule,

but they berbondong-18:30 hrs WIB crowd and everyone is very enthusiastic.

Morning we continue with Final Surfing contest. As a winner in the contest are:

Champion Lukman Buluk that I finally got a gift from the Surf Board Sastro Aji.
Juara II Kitar Agus
Juara III Hambali

After the contest finished, the last event we clean beaches and clean-Bakti Social bagibagi sembako. "This is the form of our attention on the Beach," The Sastro Aji. Which is the organizer and all funding for the contest from Sastro Aji. This event is the Birthday Sastro Aji. "Happy Birthday BOS ..." The Age and sukse slalu ...... "Success Always and Keep On Surf Bro.

Magic Wave Surfing Championship (MSC)

2009-03-04T11:21:00.000-08:00

Maharani-Kuta beach that morning terihat congested. Hear music from a sound wave that accompany the activities of those who are around the beach. Some tents offer the newest products and also do a radio broadcast directly on the beach Maharani. Yes .. the whole crowd was part of a surfing contest, the event titled Magic Wave Showdown Super Series 1.

The contest aims to promote the surfing world and also to improve the quality of the grommet surfer. And this contest, two division namely division under 14 and under 10. Action is the first day opened with the under 14 division. Enthusiastic participants so big with this contest. The 37 participants who register for the race. Increased skill in this category were quite difficult. Hill repeatedly into the MC at the event because some of the participants cried out to the extraordinary action. But unfortunately there are two or three free surfer who sometimes take the waves took the participants. But this does not decrease the action of the participants in the race.

After round 2 is complete for the under 14 division, then turn under division 10 of the act and the 17 participants who register. While the corn is still contemporary, this division no less exciting with the sister-brother in the under 14 division. they try to make big waves in the snaps that time measuring approximately 2 feet.
The contest this time surf school is also held in cooperation with the Big Kahuna. For those who want to learn to surf the program on the south coast Maharani on that day.

After a long fight, finally entering the final round. In the under 14 division is Koko, ableh, Teo and own the local kuta Jaenal. Whereas in the under 10 have Reza, Niko, Jeren and Ivan. Competition in the under 14 competition between Jaenal and Koko. Koko a few times trying to get a barrel, but failed. And just get some big snaps. Unlike the Jaenal already know very well that with the movement in the waves Beach Maharani get perfect wave. And the end result that much difference between the point and Jaenal Koko.

In closing the committee to make this event quite rousing. Tropi and winners get prizes from various sponsors who participated. Give away the unforgettable awarded by the committee to the children. Keep clean beach and smile close contest Showdown Super Series1 this.

Thanks for all participants, kids, Judges, LPM Kuta, and all sponsorship: Media release, MKM, Oz Radio, Kratingdaeng, Fatigon, 69 Slam, Star Surf, McDonald's, Billabong, Rusty, ABC, Reef. See you at the next Showdown .. cheers.

Surfing Hot Spot in Bali

2009-03-03T11:11:00.000-08:00

Can not be denied, one of which makes the attractiveness for tourists to come to Bali is a place where many surf surfing or owned. With so many places that have good, local and foreign peselancar continue to tame the oceans came to Bali in a friendly. Of the many places we surf the select few to be the site where the most good surf are:

Padang-Padang Beach

This beach area is located in the hilly area near Uluwatu. The beach is not visited by many people so the atmosphere will be very interesting to try to derasnya water here. With a chalky white, this beach also offers a range of views to enchantment.

For a beginner or you are new to study surfing, here are a lot of a local guide will be ready to help you can try sports including surfing provide info to when surfing.

Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach, a name that certainly is not foreign to you. The famous beach is also ideal for surfing. Start the morning before the sun to return to the contest, this coastal plateau by the surfer to a new study that has been pro. Many surf schools ready to help you learn here. Events locally and internationally are often held here.

Balangan Beach

This beach is located near the coast of Padang-padang. First is not easy to find, because there is no access to good roads here. But now there is a good access road and the beach is visited mainly started by many of the Surfers.

Uluwatu Beach

Uluwatu Beach has waves that are big enough and suitable for international peselancar. Around this place there are many options for accommodation or accommodation that offers a range of price variation.

Skin Cancer

2009-03-01T09:31:00.000-08:00

Bali is located just 8 degrees south of the Equator, so it's important to remember the Dangers of the Sun.One most important is Skin Cancer. the key is early detection ....!!! Read on.

What is Skin Cancer...?

It is a Tumor, an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells,on the skin.The skin appear to change in texture or color and a sore or nodule may develop on your skin.these skin changes usually can be seen with the naked eye,and 90% can be cured if treated early.

There are 3 types of Skin Cancer :

Basal Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Melanoma

( basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are usually referred together as non-melanoma carcinoma )

The outer layer of the skin is made up of squamous cells.Basal cells are found below the squamous cells.Melanocytes are in the deepest layer of epidermis.melanoma develops from melanocytes.

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma ( non-melanoma skin cancer )are the most common forms of skin cancer. The number of new cases of the skin cancer appear to be increasing each year. The number of deaths due to skin cancer,however,is fairly small.

How does it occur..?

The most common and easily prevent-able cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet ( UV ) light (sunlight or tanning beds ). Genetic ( hereditary ) factors play a part in the tendency to develop skin cancer.Some diseases and some chemicals , such as petroleum products.increase your risk of developing skin cancer.Also,if you have another type of cancer , the cancer may spread to your skin.

In addition,pipe and cigar smoking can cause squamous cell carcinoma on the lip.it is common on the lower lip.

Skin cancer develops very slowly.The Sunburn you receive this week may take 20 years or more to become skin cancer.

What are the Symptoms..?

• Many skin cancer occur on the face,but they can appear anywhere on the skin.
• Symptoms of skin cancer may include :
• Sores or changes in the skin that do not heal.
• A craterlike lesion ( ulcer ) on the skin that may not hurt.
• Changes in color,shape,or thickness of a mole.
• Bleeding.
• Itching.
• Pain.

Who is likely to develop skin cancer…?

People whose skin tans poorly or burns easily after sun exposure are particularly susceptible to non-melanoma skin cancer.People whose skin tans poorly or who have number of abnormal moles may have an increased risk of develop melanoma skin cancer.Professions such as farmers,other sun-exposed outdoor workers, and vehicle drivers ( their sun-exposed arm ) are also high-risk for skin cancer.

How is it diagnosed..?

Besides examining your skin and asking about symptoms and medical history, your doctor might request a biopsy,for microscopic examination of the skin.

How is it treated..?

The choice of the treatment depent on the type of cancer and it size and position on the skin.

A few methods include :

• Shaving off the growth flat with the skin surface,then cauterizing ( electrically burning ) the surrounding area.
• Cutting out the affected area and closing the wound with ( stitches ).
• Mohs’ chemosurgery ( a method of removing and analyzing layers of the growth and surrounding skin ).
• Freezing the affected area using liquid nitrogen.

How I can help prevent skin cancer…?

Avoid exposure to ultraviolet ( UV ) radiation. Ultraviolet radiation is a stream of invisible high-energy rays coming from the sun. Artificial sources such as tanning booths and sunlamps also produce ultraviolet radiation.

Sun exposure can be reduced by changing patterns of outdoor activities to reduce time of exposure to high –intensity UV radiation ( the sun is strongest from 10 am to 4 pm ) and wearing protective clothing ( such as long sleeves and hats ) when exposed to sunlight.
When you must be outdoor,use su screen lotion to protect against UV light.Use a lotion with SPF value of 15 or more. The higher the SPF ( the sun protection factor ),the greater the protection .if you allergic to PABA, use PABA-free sunscreen lotion. UV rays from the sun can penetrate clouds and cause sunburn or damage even on claudy days. Also remember that sunscreen is not a substitute for avoidance of sun exposure.

Skin cancer that is untreated or partially treated may result in more severe cancer problems. Unless they are removed, the cancer cells can spread to lymph nodes and internal organs. Learn the characteristics of potentially dangerous skin growths, and see your health care provider at the first sign of anything suspicious forming on your skin.