Bali

Bali: The land of itinerant animals on the roam. Packs of dogs appear from thick, overgrown vegetation. Never aggressive, never barking, just minding their own business on their way to somewhere else. Some lie on footpaths oblivious to the pedestrians who step casually over them. Others lie half on the road not flinching as the traffic speeds by.

Numerous cats appear from corridors and doorways. Never one or two, but rather a clowder. Others lurk in shadowy, half hidden places, stealthly appearing at your feet in restaurants begging for a morsel.

At any time of the day or night, in any part of this beautiful island, a cock will crow, far in the distance. Broods of chickens wander aimlessly about, scratching at the ground, pecking, clucking, and running from the rooster. Roosters strut, with their beautiful colourful plumage on show.

Dark volcanic beaches stretch into the distance, overshadowed by imposing volcanos. Clouds clinging to their peaks, while the flotsam and jetsam of modern society washes back and forth in the surf. Plastic bottles, plastic bags, straws, and bottle caps dance in discarded abundance in juxtaposition to natures beauty.

Village life ambles along while tourist flock to bars decked out in the sporting paraphernalia of their home country. For the tourist, they can leave home without having to leave home. Their replica home delivered with cheap beer and food.

Lines of tourist navigate narrow footpaths from restaurants to spas, t-shirts and trinkets. Some in a peaceful yoga stupor, others bring their hometown hurry with them. All the while the sweet smell of durian permeates the warm humid air.

Fresh fruit, seafood, and sambal sit comfortably with the poor grime stained streets. An abundance of cool, clean mountain water floods picturesque paddy fields on tourist ladened farms or bubbles up in spiritually uplifting healing springs.

A beautiful, friendly island of broad smiles, sacred places, brooding volcanoes, and plastic waste.

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Craig

09/05/2025

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