Monthly Archives: March 2011

Dear Jan: Last week, I wrote to you about the resilience of Balinese society in the face of waves of westernization. I wish I could say that the same for the physical environment. As I mentioned a couple of weeks … Continue reading →

Dear Jan: I recently spent the morning with Shri, a fascinating woman who understands Bali more deeply than many expats here, myself included. Shri has been living in Bali for over a decade, studying its culture with admirable energy and … Continue reading →

Dear Jan: While some visitors to Bali are looking for exposure to its rich culture and artistic traditions, others seek a fulfillment of their fantasies about paradise. The southwest coast of Bali, by far the most densely populated part of … Continue reading →

Dear Jan: Yesterday was Nyepi, the Balinese New Year. Also called the Day of Silence, Nyepi is arguably the most important holiday of the year. On this day, every person on the island, Balinese and visitor alike, must stay put … Continue reading →