Exploring Gangs: Kuta, Bali

I have always maintained that even in a busy tourist mecca there is so much more to be found by exploring the inner core. By this I mean walking down the gangs, or alleyways.

It's amazing what you see and who you meet. One time Candika and I started off walking down to Poppies Lane 1 and taking the gang from there which leads down to Jalan Pantai Kuta. After crossing the road, we walked down the first gang we came to. Since most of these gangs are interconnecting, it makes sense they are used 24/7 by motorbikes. So, it was a case of having eyes in the back of your head!.

The houses are tightly packed, most with low walls, and so you can't help but gaze in and get a glimpse of the Kampung way of living. Candika espied a small Ruko - a house that also has a small shop - selling smallgoods such as Krupuk, fresh eggs and vegetables. It was owned by an elderly couple who were more than happy to chat the morning away.

We crossed another quiet road and down another gang much narrower than the previous. It's interesting that every house has its own temple. The reasons for this I will explain in another article. Some of these family temples were elaborate, whilst others,, modestly small.

Suddenly, Candika stopped and grabbed my arm tightly. She was speechless. The source of Candika's fear soon became apparent when the biggest Rottwieller I have seen poked its head out of an open gateway, teeth bared and snarling. I told Candika to walk slowly past the beast and make no sudden movements. Maybe the dog didn't like bule's I thought I as I passed and the dog growled louder!.

After crossing Jalan Singosari and down yet another gang, our exploring soon came to an end when Candika's stomach started rumbling, the sure sign tucker was needed.