Bali

Bali is paradise. We saw incredible things, met friendly people, ate delicious food, had wonderful weather and even relaxed a little. Which is not something that we normally do no vacations. We spent a week in Bali and then headed to the Gili Islands and then back to Bali for a few more days. This is Bali - part one.

Tirta Empul

This temple is also known as the holy spring water temple. This is a Balinese Hindu temple. The springs here are believed to be magical and have healing effects. After walking around the temple, Simon asked if he could join in. They gave him a sarong and he jumped right in following the leads of the others in the spring. I don't know if it had magical powers, but he had a good time. I thought about going in, but didn't want to be wet the rest of the day.

If you look closely, there are little baskets on top of the water fountains. These baskets are offerings, and are found everywhere in Bali. I mean everywhere, outside homes, resturants, stores, and just on the street. We usually found some outside of our hotel room. Apparently it was for good luck.

I love this picture. This girl kept smiling at me while I was taking a picture. Simon is right be hind her washing his head.

Gunung Kawi

There are ten shrines craved out of the mountain.

Ubud

We spent most of our time in Bali staying in a city called Ubud. I loved it there. We had a quiet little room with a veranda and garden. There are great little shops selling everything from art to clothing. We took day trips from Ubud, but did see a few things while we were there.

Puri Saren Agung

This was the royal palace, and some members of the royal family still live here.

At a couple of restuarants we sat on mats close to the floor. Our kids loved it because they could easily reach the table.

Pura Tanah Lot

This is a temple that is on the west coast of Bali. You are not allowed to go to the temple, but the view is just breathtaking.

Kuta

We spent one night in Kuta and left. The beach was great, but the atmosphere was well, not for us. The beach was filled with surfers. Our kids loved playing in the sand and the shallow part of the water. Conley really liked playing in the sand. I think he just like that he could be as dirty as he wanted to without us getting upset. We spent more time at the beach, but that is in another post.