Beautiful Bali

Tanah Lot Temple Sunset

I was lucky to capture this image of a beautiful West Coast Bali sundown

Thirteen years after my first visit to this magical island I have the privilege to once again take in the beauty and mysticism of this tropical paradise. It turns out that the touristic areas of the island are quite busy due to the United Nations Climate Change Conference currently wrapping up in Nusa Dua.

Bali is, if anything, more beautiful than I remember. Unfortunately, the island has suffered in the years since the 2002 Bali bombing that captured worldwide headlines but the island still has so much to offer the savvy traveler: full service resorts, fascinating local culture and history, and natural beauty aplenty.

I took the opportunity to view cultural performances, eat exotic cuisine, and travel to the edge of a volcano. I also had the opportunity to ride a Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe around the island. What an adventure! Balinese traffic is on the left (just like the UK) and that was a new experience. Take into account the crowded roads of trucks and tons of 125 cc scooters/mopeds and some rather chaotic driving tactics and riding a big Harley becomes a whole new ballgame. A Harley is a rare but respected sight on Indonesian roads. Well beyond the reach of most Indonesians, the Harley motorcycle carries a mystique as the "king" of motorcycles.

Riding a big HD on such a magical island is something that few get to experience. The fact that I had to drive through tropical downpours further added to the adventure and I hope to do it again soon!

Harley Softail at rest near Sanur Beach

Taking refuge during a tropical downpour

Filling up at the local Pertamina Gas Station near Kuta Beach

Driving up the coast on the way to Java gives some stunning views of the Indian Ocean

One of the local Balinese residents

Lucky me with several Balinese dancers