Page 47 - Smile Magazine: April 2013

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CHARMAINE BAYLON
PHOTO
DMITRY BERKUT / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
THE BUKIT AREA
of Bali has been my
home for more than two years now. It’s
where I found peace and a great admiration
for the slow, provincial lifestyle. It’s also
given me the quality of life I’ve been
looking for, and appealed to me as the
place to have fun, get in touch with nature
and live simply. I also love the
pantai
(
beaches) and surrounding greens.
My life here is the exact opposite of the
one I used to lead in busy, modern Tokyo.
But it was the kind of change I needed.
The Uluwatu Temple
1
SURFING CAPITAL
My neighborhood features some of
the world’s most famous surfing spots
like Uluwatu, Padang Padang and Bingin
which means you’ll enjoy watching
experienced surfers. I love to surf at
Padang Padang. The waves are clean and
mellow, with long rides on the reef — a
favorite of female surfers and beginners.
Not into surfing? You can have a leisurely
swim at mid-tide, so you don’t have to fear
a strong current dragging you out to sea.
Laid-back
and free
With its beaches, surf spots, stunning
sights and sunsets, Bali is more than
resident Kristin Solis could ask for
3
MEET THE LOCALS
There are many weekly
upacara keagamaan
(
religious ceremonies) held in Bali. You
can go to a temple and watch one take place. If you’re lucky, you might even get invited to
participate and wear the local costume. Listen to the
gamelan
(
traditional music ensemble) in
the villages or town halls, then eat at a
warung
(
local eatery) and chat with the locals.
2
IT’S A DATE
The Bukit has two of the best
sunset spots in Bali. One is Pecatu or
Dreamland; the other is Pantai Balangan.
One can hang out, view the sunset
and the gorgeous landscape in the late
afternoon, sip cocktails and take romantic,
memorable photos.
YOUR GUIDE:
Kristin Solis
LIVES IN:
Bali, Indonesia
WO
A teacher and contributor
for
HER NEIGHBORHOOD:
c h i k k a
d i s p a t c h
Sunset at Dreamland
Join in religious ceremonies like this!