Bali Bliss

How many blogs must have a chapter named Bali Bliss? It rolls off the tongue so readily. Here's just the start of my observations and experiences here, all I've had time to write. So much more to tell once I get a bit more work done!
All that I had hoped for in my trip to Thailand has realized in Bali. I am sure it exists in other places, but I'm finding it here in spades: beautiful carved stone edifices, temples around every corner, large expanses of lush green and jungle, no terribly modern buildings sticking out like a sore thumbs. Many have heard me say it, it's like Thailand on steroids. And the people: down to earth, calm, eye-contact friendly, tolerant, warm. There is even a sense that, though annoying, tourists and expats are integrated in a way that keeps everyone on an even keel. I have more to discover, but these are my first impressions.

Where I am staying is about as perfect a home as anyone could wish for. Large, comfortable open space divided by a koi pond and reflecting Buddha pool. The infinity swimming pool at the back of the property overlooks an expanse of rice paddies. All day and all night long, a chorus of shifting sounds. Currently frogs and crickets singing a lullaby din punctuated by the chirping of tiny and not-so-tiny geckos. In the morning and most of the day: roosters crow at intervals; cows moo; a dog bark here and there; the whir of tropical heat-inspired bugs, invisible except to the ear and the occasional accidental dive bombing of an errant beetle, wasp or giant bee. It's loud if you think about it, but fades to a tropical song when you don't.

Typical days include: the free and slightly dangerous feeling of whizzing around town on my motorscooter; completely blissful, tolerable heat; lovely cool breezes and sporadic prolific downpours; home cooked meals; lots of work on the laptop; several en-masse, suit-free dunks in the pool; and the feeling of an island's wonders awaiting my exploration.

Upcoming: dance party at home, dance party at the foot of a volcano, climbing said volcano for sunrise, more about the entirely awesome experience of yoga in a thunderstorm, temple visit, preparations for Galungan, and goodness knows what else.