Bali Dos and Don'ts

If you want to know about Indonesian industrialized area, you should go to Bekasi in West Java. There you can see the real Indonesian way of life. You can see how they work, how they deal with traffic jam, etc.

Some of Bali's best is not on the beaten path. Avoid kuta beach and try a secluded beach with less people like semenyak. See a ketcheck dance but also see a ceremony with real traditional tira (dance). Be sure to wear a sarong and sash inside the temple, NOT a towel or makeshift sarong. It is very disrespectful. And no pictures inside especially of barongs. The cremations are beautiful and often if you make friends with someone and ask they will know of one and invite you. Locals are the best way to gain information.

Escape the madness of Kuta and head off to the Gili islands, off Lombok. Easy to book with one of the local agents on Poppies Lane, you can either book the fast boat for a speedy getaway or take the slow ferry to Mataram then bus from there. I would definately go with the ferry, whats the rush? Its a beautiful journey, very relaxing and great to travel with the locals.

Go see the Medicine Man from the book Eat, Pray, Love. Very cool experience!

Ahhhh.. if there's heaven on earth ,this is certainly one of the spots where you find it...