Baru di Bali

Explore The Unexplored

Driving around to the deep corners of the island on your own could at times lead you to pleasant surprises; especially if you get lost! Yes, we are totally aware that getting lost could be one of the most frustrating ideas. But on a holiday in this island, this could mean a closer encounter with everything that is ‘real Bali’ – not to mention that there are plenty of interesting things going on off the main streets, hidden away on the backstreets and backwaters. Anyway, Bali is known for its friendly people. In other words, you can always pull over and ask for directions. These friendly, lovely people will for sure point you the way.

We need to remind you, however, that the Balinese people (especially those still living in villages) are not really familiar with using the words “left” or “right” when pointing directions. Instead, they will tell you to go north, south or other win directions. Bringing a compass wouldn’t help much either; this is because the Balinese people share a different view on the magnetic alignment of the Earth. For a Balinese, north (also called mountain-wards or kaja) is where the highest mountain in Bali, sacred Mt. Agung sits. Since Mt. Agung is located in Karangasem regency, which is not at the most northwards point of the island, the ‘Balinese north’ could actually be south, especially for those in Singaraja areas.

Yet, this whole confusing direction concept doesn’t stop right there, for it also affects the way the Balinese sleep. The Balinese Hindus believe that people should sleep with their heads facing north and feet south. East is also a safe one because it is in the direction of the rising sun, a major source of energy for life. In fact, Balinese believe that if you choose to sleep in any other direction, such as kelod (seawards) or in the direction of kauh (sunset), you will be a bearer of ill fortune. If you face your head west you will have no love in your life and everyone will hate you; if you face it east, you’ll live a short life.

So, it will be wise to just pay a really good attention at the finger as a Balinese is pointing you directions – so that you’ll finally find your way. Or if you want to live years longer after the next sunrise, you might need to rearrange your bed.