The Venues...
Sun, 08/31/2008 - 05:28 — adminIndonesia is the largest archipelago country, located at the equator which has 17.508 islands. Due to its location, Indonesia has warm tropical climate with high humidity. The country is rich in culture, tradition, and creeds. Under one motto, Bhineka Tunggal Ika, which means unity in diversity, Indonesian people live harmoniously. Indonesia is also blessed with wonderful nature, including the second largest rainforest and thousands of flora and fauna.
There are five main islands in Indonesia, which are Sumatra, Borneo, Celebes, West Papua, and Java. Java is the most densely populated island, due to the fact that the capital city, Jakarta, is located in the island. Institut Teknologi Bandung is also located in this island, in Bandung the capital city of West Java province. Bali is a small separated island in the East of Java. Our Co-Host, Universitas Udayana is located in this island.
Bali is one of Indonesian Island famously known as the Island of the God. The nickname is given because of its beautiful scenery and landscape including beaches, rice fields, etc. The Island is famous for its unique culture which is influenced by the major religion in the island, Balinese Hindu. The religion also influences the daily habit in Bali, which leads to a peaceful and harmonious life of the people.
Bali has attracted many visitors from around the world, since it offers endless choice of things to see. Nature lovers can spend their time exploring Bali Barat National Park that conserves several endangered species such as Bali Starling birds, diving to see beautiful coral fish or strolling at the beautiful sandy beaches. Bali also offer a unique cultural experience, from watching traditional dancing, to tranquilizing music produced by bamboo music instrument, or learning to cook exotic Balinese cuisine. Nightlife in Bali is also one of the main attractions for many visitors.
All of the attractions are supported by good facilities and peaceful environment. The Government, together with the Balinese people are trying their best to preserve them.
Kuta is one of most touristy place in Bali. It is famous for its beach, shopping centre, good restaurant, and nightlife. It is also a destination for those who are looking for spectacular sunset view. At the north part of the beach, there are tempting waves ready to be tested by surfers.
Tanah Lot, which means the land to the south, is located in the coast of West Bali. The main attraction of Tanah Lot is a big temple built on the top of a cliff with an extraordinary view of the ocean. People can visit this temple during low-tide. During the high tide, the cliff resembles a big boat carrying the temple. Poisonous snakes living in the cave nearby, which are believed to be guarding the temple, add some mystical aura to this temple
Another fascinating beach in Bali is Sanur. It is located in south east Bali. Contrary to Kuta which is a perfect place to see sunset, this beach is the perfect place to see sunrise. While watching the sunrise you may also find traditional fishing boats harboring to the beach. At the night, you can fill your appetite with fabulous local foods sold at the local night market.
The Barong is always associated with Bali. Known throughout much of the world, Barong has become almost the icon of Bali. In daily lives of the Balinese, Barong is the sacred symbol of truth and goodness. They are respected and taken care of in the temples so that they may protect the people from the evils of the world.
The story goes that Rangda, the mother of Erlangga, the King of Bali in the tenth century, was condemned by Erlangga's father because she practiced black magic. After she became a widow, she summoned all the evil spirits in the jungle, the leaks and the demons, to come after Erlangga. A fight occurred, but she and her black magic troops were too strong that Erlangga had to ask for the help of Barong. Barong came with Erlangga's soldiers, and fight ensued. Rangda casted a spell that made Erlangga soldiers all wanted to kill themselves, pointing their poisoned keris into their own stomachs and chests. Barong casted a spell that turned their body resistant to the sharp keris. At the end, Barong won, and Rangda ran away.
The Kecak dance is one of the most famous of Balinese dances. It is unusual because it has no musical accompaniment like many other Indonesian dances do, the rhythm of the dance is produced by the chanting 'monkey' chorus. Instead, a troupe of over 150 bare-chested men serve as the chorus, making a wondrous cacophony of synchronized "chak-achak-achak" clicking sounds while swaying their bodies and waving their hands .From that chanting noise of "Cak-cak-cak", then it gave the dance its name Kecak.
What makes the Kecak such a fascinating dance to watch are the fifty or so men in the checkered pants. They are both the choir and the props, providing the music for the story in a series of constant vocal chants that change with the mood of the actors. They don't sit still, either, they wave their arms to simulate fire, and reposition themselves around the stage to represent wind and fire, prison cells, and unseen hand of protection from the gods.
