Tranquility in the Jungle – Wapa di Ume, Ubud

Having just left a quiet, jungle paradise, the the chaos and people of Ubud was a strange site. I wondered how we would get to a hotel that advertised itself as a retreat and boasted peace and tranquillity. Then, just as quickly as we entered the madness, we left it. Just a few minutes later,…

Cooking with Bali Pesto Café

For those who know my family, they know my husband is the cook. I can cook…if I have days to plan, shop, prep, and have all the ingredients in front of me and plenty of time to do it. My husband can make a meal from the ingredients of the kitchen in 30 minutes. Since…

Dancing with Fire – Kecak Fire & Trance Dancing

Being married to an Indian, especially one who is a huge Carnatic music fan, I had seen my share of Indian classical dancing. Precise movements, vivid facial expressions, and elaborate costumes. From what I researched on line, Balinese dancing was similar. But I was in for a surprise and treat when we were taken to…

A Day in the Balinese Life

Our first day in Ubud promised to be a fun experience and I can unequivocally say it did not disappoint. Our awesome guide from Destination Asia picked us up at 9am from the Wapa di Ume, and we headed in our ridiculously large van for about an hour outside Ubud. There we were welcomed into…