Bali – Beaches
For many, Bali is considered the epitome of a dream vacation. Eternal sun, everlasting serenity, the island of the blissful. And with so much enthusiasm, there is some truth to it.
In addition to the fantastically beautiful landscape, it is above all the culture and the positive attitude to life of the Balinese that make this island so unforgettable for the traveler from Europe. The cheerful attitude and the willingness to embrace the new without giving up the old may be the reason why Bali has not lost its character and tradition despite the increasing influx of tourists from all over the world.
Even if it may seem as if the magnificent festivals and rites that are scattered across the island almost daily are merely a staging for tourists. But that’s not the whole truth. The numerous celebrations and festivals have been an integral part of Balinese life for centuries. Foreign visitors are included in this rhythm of life as a matter of course.
Most of the beaches are protected by an offshore reef. Unfortunately, snorkeling is not without danger. At low tide, the water retreats to a shallow pool and you can walk to the reef. This is a good opportunity to observe the small reef animals. There are a number of different types of starfish. As dangerous as they are when snorkeling, they are delicately prepared in the kitchen at home.
Small offerings on the beach are said to appease the gods and appease the demons from the sea. Animism, i.e. the belief in demons and spirits, is widespread in Bali. The Balinese have a strongly dualistic worldview in which heaven and earth, day and night, and gods and demons face each other as opposing but equally important elements.
Just like the gods, the demons also need offerings to make them mild and conciliatory. These offerings are often nothing more than a banana leaf with a handful of rice or a small flat basket of flowers, and you can find them everywhere, not only in the temples and shrines, but also on the pedestrian walkways in front of shops, on beaches, etc.
Most upscale beach hotels have their own small park with tropical vegetation.
