Bali

(Photo borrowed from Amandari's website.)

I've had quite enough of the city. Most of the vacations last year have been spent exploring nooks and crannies in the cities. As much as I enjoy the wonderful array of theatre shows and gigs, I still like island vacations where I simply bring 2 pairs of slippers and no shoes. After a quick perk-me-up in Pangkor Laut island last week, Bali is a good break, and I don't even have to take leave from the office to get here. Just so you know, I'm starting 2010 with 40 days of leave. Highly doubtful that a good portion would be utilized. Of course I could quit and leave immediately. *bright grin* But the colleagues might just yell 'traitor' at me. :p

While I love the sea and the beaches, I've always gravitated towards the hills in Bali. I'm fond of Ubud and the walking trails along the Ayung River. I spent an enormous amount of time in Bali years ago. Those were great carefree and irresponsible times. Am missing that nowadays. Haven't been to Bali for a while. It feels good to be back.

Hearing the friends whine about the bad parts of the festive season, it seems that modern day celebrations have been so overshadowed by negativity that the positivity is all lost. We've no Chinese New Year obligations to fulfil. I can't even begin to tell you how blissful that feels.

I wanted to sleep for at least 12 hours. But I didn't. How could I miss out on the lovely sunrise, sights, sounds and smells of nature? I went to bed at 9pm when all was still and the stars were twinkling. I bounded out of bed at 5am. Waking up to the chirping of birds and crickets was so refreshing. I've forgotten how crisp the air can be. Most of all, I've forgotten how liberating the island makes me feel. Relaxed and not so tense, the exercising comes easy. The stretches sink deeper and longer. I relish sessions of pilates by the infinity pool overlooking verdant rice terraces.