One of the other attractions in Ubud is the market. There were two main sections to the market: the touristy art market and the more local-oriented food market. While the art market was cool, and Jen convinced me to buy her a painting ($5) and two little sandstone statues ($3/each), the really interesting part was the food area.

Market:

In a recessed area at the back of the market, local vendors sold all sorts of fruits, vegetables, and meats. Jen was somewhat appalled (and concerned) to see raw fish and meat being sold with no refrigeration. We wandered around through the dark alleyways of the market, which made for some great pictures.

Descending into the market:

Exploring:

The other side:

On the way out:

On our last full day in Ubud, we spent a few hours at a spa and then caught up with Jen’s friends Christie and Dave. They were in Bali as part of a month-long trip around Southeast Asia. After being surprised by how expensive Singapore was, they moved on to the more budget-friendly towns of Bali.

We had dinner at an Indonesian restaurant (and enjoyed some Balinese palm wine and rice wine), then went to see a traditional performance. After dark, we walked down to a temple area, and watched a Kecak fire and trance dance.

The whole performance took place in the light of burning oil lamps, giving the dancers a pale red glow. The men chanted and swayed in unison, moving through the repetitive choruses and intricate verses of their chant without missing a beat. The movement and sound were hypnotic.

Monkey:

The dancers acted out a story as well, but I was too busy watching the individual performers to follow the bigger story.

An archer:

The small moments were mesmerizing:

Before you start thinking that the trip was all roses, I have to add one negative point to our visit to Bali: Seminyak. We decided to spend our last day and a half there, and were vastly underwhelmed (and somewhat disgusted).

There had been a flood in Bali the week before we visited, and evidently the flood had washed garbage down the rivers of the island and into the ocean and onto the beaches.

Our first impression of Seminyak Beach:

We tried to go swimming, but lasted only a few minutes. The feeling of garbage brushing against our legs was too much.

Paradise lost:

Despite the unfortunate ending to our vacation, our visit to Bali was generally amazing. The island is as beautiful as we had heard, the people as friendly, and the shopping (unfortunately for my wallet) just as varied. We will be back soon.

-Ryan

As always, more on Flickr.