Uluatu
Just a 45 minute motorbike ride south of Kuta is Pura Luhur Uluatu temple,
Bali's most spectacular temples located high on a cliff top at the edge of a plateau 250 feet above the waves of the Indian Ocean. Dedicated to the spirits of the sea, the famous Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple is an architectural wonder in black coral rock, beautifully designed with spectacular views.
When you visit there is fee of about 50 cents and the men are given a purple sarongs ties with a bright blue sash while the women just have to have the blue sash. Strolling down the shady path mischievous monkeys are stealing handbags, sunglasses and eating whatever food they are given by the visitors.
I was impressed by one monkey who was rummaging through a stole bag, tossing away the inedible and tearing open the plastic wrappers of potato chips and chocolate bars, while fending off other monkeys by showing his teeth and screeching at those that came to close.
It seems that both the Gods and the local people have a tolerance for mischief. Climbing the hundreds of stone steps
The prayer space at the summit is reserved for Hindus while we stand under the shade of a tree in purgatory and watch the procession of a hundred or so faithful, each bringing their own gifts as a mark of respect for the Gods who keep away the evil spirits of the sea.
Ceremonies are a way of life in Bali. Every day one can see a ceremony, whether is the anniversary of a departed relative, a marriage, a circumcision of a young boy or the celebration of the first menstruation of a teenage girl. There is an obligation and a cost by the family and the community to honour significant events of life.
Coming down from the mountainous Uluatu we arrive at Jimbaran bay, with is rows of tourist seafood restaurants and fishing prows drawn up on the beach we ride along the shabby fishing village, the drying nets, the outboard motors and other paraphernalia fishermen need we come upon a place I have been looking for.
It was not what I expected, a low large rectangular galvanized iron shed in a state of ill repair . In side it was dark and there were makeshift tables one which styrene foam boxes housed the catch of the day resting in ice and water.
This was the fish market for the local. Marlin. snapper, mackerel, octopus, lobster and prawns and many other varieties I fish that are nameless to me.
Now I know where to come tomorrow morning.
