of course there was much more to see in Bali besides the Botanic Garden, and i feel like i saw a lot during my short stay.

there were a lot of really beautiful temples; Taman Ayun, Tanah Lot, Besakih and Batukaru to name a few. Tahah Lot was pretty cool, as it is in the water and you can only walk out there when there is low tide. it makes for a lovely sunset picture for sure. Besakih was neat, but i kind of felt like i was swindled going in. most temples have an entrance fee, and some have you rent a sarong if your knees are showing, but this temple asked for an entrance fee, a guide fee, a donation and sarong rental fee. unless you were with a tour group you had to use their guide, which was odd. it was just weird, it was the only place i felt a bit taken advantage of.

i went to Air Panas Alam Angseri (hot springs), and although i didn’t partake in the springs, it made for a lovely mid-day walk. the Jatiluwih rice terraces were unlike anything i had seen before, and the cultural performances i went to, Barong Dance and Kecak Dance were really interesting. i did most of my souvenir shopping at the Sukawati Market, which was like a giant flea market, lots of stalls & things to purchase, but be ready to barter, nothing can be bought at asking price. my treat, i had some awesome sandals made at at store by my hotel. i love shoes. i seem to buy a pair (or two) on every trip.

i was there the week before the Balinese new year celebration and there were giant dolls (Ogoh-ogoh) being created throughout the various towns. it was pretty amazing to see these ginormous figures being built in every town wherever there was covered space.

so much to see in Bali. i was there for a week, but i think 10 days would have been a bit better. on my last day i heard about a great snorkeling spot, and i wish i had been able to check it out. oh well, it goes on the list of things to see on my next visit.