Island Life Magazine Ltd August/September 2015 | Page 40

TRAVEL

Visiting

Bali
A

excellent and lasting.
dventure into the
Cockfighting still takes place
Indian Ocean was
in certain villages on a regular
something I had always
basis and despite my absolute
dreamed about but I never
repulsion as to the whole
quite imagined I would find
concept of this sport, it was
myself taking a holiday to Bali.
however clear to see that the
It is one of those places that
Balinese people are devoted
you can conjure a vision of
to their roosters in the way
from the various films and
By Terence
they are preened, groomed
writings, before you arrive.
Willey
and dined, in fact it is said that
The reality produced a special
they are more pampered than
depth of life and nature which
our own Queen’s corgis. The
made Bali a very special place
owners look after them with an unerring
to visit. Upon arrival at our hotel it was
devotion and take them to meet friends
clear that the people were sincere with
their welcome and they were very keen to and ensure that they are always fed the
best of the available food and place
share with us their culture.
them in baskets nearby the roadside so
The island is surrounded by coral reefs
they are entertained by passing traffic.
with white sandy beaches to the south
I purchased a carefully and delicately
and black sand to the north and west
hand-made carving of a man with his
which offers an interesting contrast. Our
hotel was situated to the south and in a
central part of the tourism area. Although
tourism represents the islands largest
growth output, agriculture is still their
biggest employer and notably with rice
cultivation. Crops growing in smaller
amounts include fruit, vegetables and
coffee. Fishing is varied and plentiful
and a fish dinner is worth experiencing
on one of the southern beaches where
tables and chairs are laid out to fully
appreciate the sun setting over the sea.
The Island is also famous for its artists
who produce an array of handicrafts
including batik and ikat cloth and
clothing, wood and stone carvings,
painted art and silverware. These are
made around the various villages on the
island and they are famous for their wind
chimes and wooden furniture. The skill of
the local people is quite exceptional and
the quality of the products produced is

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