Back roads of Bali

Riding around the area close to Pura Alas Kedaton, I took a couple of smaller roads, one dead ending down a local street. Often before this happens, I get a bit of a ‘heads-up’ from locals, who, sitting outside their houses, cannot understand why a weird looking ‘bule‘ wants to go flying down their street. No worries, I alway say, I hope it gives them a laugh, to think someone temporarily got lost in their neighborhood. One thing is for sure though, you will often find the most beautiful views, trails and scenes, by taking an unmarked local street over the next hill. Today I stopped to photograph a couple of older guys, who wandered out to check me out. Their street was simply lined with family temples, quite impressive and you’ll find this kind of traditional, scenic Bali, all over the island, just onto the main roads.

Stopping at a local roadside shop in these areas guarantees 2 things: The owner has bragging rights for the next week, and you become the new ‘object of attention’. You will quickly get asked about your family, strange for us westerners, but natural for Balinese people. Having some photos handy will be appreciated, and will provide the ever growing crowd with a visual reference.