Bali offers a unique experience beyond typical tourism
Bali newsBali14 min read
Noel Giblett from The West Australian describes Bali as more than just a country, but another world, distinguishing between "Tourist Bali" and "Old Bali." He and his wife prefer "Old Bali," characterized by rice fields, village life, and the Balinese people, rather than coastal resorts and commercial areas. The article highlights the UNESCO-recognized Subak irrigation system, over 1000 years old, and the continuous cycles of rice cultivation involving farmers and duck herders. It emphasizes the resilience of the Balinese Hindu-Buddhist culture within predominantly Muslim Indonesia, noting how ceremony, ritual, and tradition persist despite the impact of tourism. Giblett observes the strong social cohesion in Balinese village life, where individuals, families, and the community are interconnected, often centered around religious observance and family temples. He notes that the Balinese prioritize gratitude and communal well-being over material acquisition, contrasting this with Western values. The author and his wife frequently stay in Penestanan, near Ubud, which they consider the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali. They appreciate the opportunity to participate in local ceremonies and connect with Balinese friends, despite feeling they have only scratched the surface of the island's depth. Giblett concludes that Bali, his "Home 2," offers a deeply simple and good experience, a world away from Perth, his "Home 1."
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