BIG Catch

So we arrived in Permutran on the North coast of the Island to join our friends Tim and Wendy for a little dive and snorkle. Our hotel is on a small beach nestled between the sea and the mountains with soft black sand and crystal clear water. Not much around but fishermen and guests coming to Menjangan Island. We went out on a boat with a couple of local fishermen for the sunset and came back with dinner.

Temple Monkeys west of Singarjara

Mangosteen

Yesterday we drove across the island through the central mountains to the northern coast to Pemuteran. Along the way we stopped at a market and bought some gorgeous Mangosteen.

Hibiscus and Lotus

Sunset at Canggu

Offerings

These offerings are just another way that exemplifies the lack of boundaries between the every day and the spiritual existence here. Balance plays a huge role in Bali's spiritual guidance. All of the gods must be appeased, both good and evil, high and low. Small offerings of rice, sweets, cigarettes and flowers are placed anywhere deemed auspicious. They are placed next to bridges, at crossroads, in cars and in front of shops. Even when the dogs eat them, it satisfies the lower spirits. They are placed just about everywhere, as the island is abundant with spirits.

Tanah Lot "Land in the middle of the sea"

Tanah Lot is a temple carved into a rock built by the fishermen to worship the Balinese sea gods. Its a very popular site in Canggu near our hotel. This is a picture of the temple at high tide. At low tide you can walk out to it.

Padang

Today I took April to my personal favorite street food in Indonesia, Padang. A specialty originating in Sumatra,it is usually eaten with your fingers, naturally enhancing the flavor factor. It is prepared in the morning, and eaten over the course of the day.Snacking is encouraged here. Seconds are never scoffed at either. The best way to eat this treasure is with hungry friends. "One of each" is the path of least resistance to a full Padang experience.
And don't skimp on the magic sauce.

Good morning Taipei!