10 Things You Didn’t Know About Bali

This magical island is overflowing with incredible experiences, fun facts, and interesting cultural rituals. Here we reveal 10 things you didn’t know about Bali, and why we love it there so much.

Commonly Known as Ketut

Does the name ‘Ketut’ ring a bell? Eat Pray Love fans will know this name from the famed book and film by Elizabeth Gilbert. Almost all Balinese people, men, and women, are named one of just four names: Wayan, Made, Nyoman, or Ketut, which represent their order of birth in their family (first, second, third, and fourth).

Secret Sidemen

Sidemen is a peaceful and scenic village in the eastern part of Bali, surrounded by rice terraces, lush landscapes, and the majestic Mount Agung. Sidemen is renowned for its stunning landscapes, with emerald-green rice terraces, flowing rivers, and traditional Balinese architecture. It’s a great place for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity. The village provides an authentic Balinese experience. Visit local markets and witness traditional ceremonies and rituals. Sidemen offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the busier tourist areas. It’s an ideal place for relaxation, yoga retreats, and spa experiences. Additionally, keep in mind that infrastructure and amenities may be less established than tourist hubs.

Bali Baby Bonding

Babies are carried everywhere for the first three months of life, with parents never letting their feet touch the ground. The belief is that the child’s soul is not yet anchored to this world and can be affected by black magic through the earth if they are to step on it. Carrying babies is deeply ingrained in the cultural norms of Bali for a strong emotional connection. The physical closeness fosters a sense of security and comfort for the child, and it allows parents to respond quickly to the baby’s needs. Historically, Bali has had an agrarian society where families worked closely together in agricultural activities. Carrying babies allowed parents to participate in work while still caring for their infants. When visiting Bali, you may appreciate this cultural practice as part of the local way of life.

Balinese Language

Most of the residents are tri-lingual and speak three languages; Balinese, Indonesian, and English. You will notice that they are extremely friendly, respectful, and welcoming. When it comes to body language, avoid placing your hands on your hips or crossing your arms.

Luwak Coffee

Bali is one of the places in the world you can treat yourself to a cup of Kopi Luwak, made from beans that have passed through the intestinal tract of a civet. The process begins when the civet, a cat-like mammal, consumes ripe coffee cherries. The civet eats the cherries for the pulp, and the coffee beans inside the cherries pass through the civet’s digestive system. The beans go through a fermentation process in the civet’s stomach, where enzymes break down proteins that can make coffee taste bitter. Luwak coffee is known for its distinctive flavour profile, which is often described as smooth, with low acidity and a unique combination of fruity and earthy notes. The fermentation process in the civet’s digestive system is believed to contribute to the coffee’s unique characteristics. Be sure to visit one of these fascinating plantations and enjoy an array of coffee flavours and treats.

Bali Swings

We’d been to Bali twice before we knew about Bali Swing. There are many Bali swings in Ubud to choose from. Ubud, known for its scenic beauty and lush green rice paddies, is the perfect setting for this exciting adventure. Having a photo taken on one of these Bali swings has become an Instagram sensation. They offer a variety of swings, tandem swings, love seats, nests, platforms, and more options for picturesque settings. We were pleased to discover that you will have both a safety guide to ensure your swing is secure, as well as a personal photographer to ensure every magical and fun moment is captured – and it’s all included in the very accessible fee.

Balinese Calendar

The Balinese year is only 210 days long and is known as the Pawukon Cycle Calendar. The Pawukon is a 10-week cycle, consisting of one to ten days, making a total of 210 days in a year. Each week is named after one of the traditional Balinese musical instruments. The Pawukon is used for various religious and cultural events, determining auspicious days for ceremonies, celebrations, and other activities.

Dutch Influence

Prior to their independence, Bali was a Dutch colony. Though their rule was short, many older Balinese still speak Dutch and there are remnants of their influence in some Balinese architecture. The Dutch colonization of Bali was part of the larger Dutch East Indies, which encompassed the territories of present-day Indonesia. The Dutch began to establish their presence in the Indonesian archipelago in the early 17th century, initially driven by the lucrative spice trade. If you look closely, you’ll notice there is still a Dutch influence across architecture, especially in official sites, with features typical of Dutch colonial design. The Dutch influence can also be seen in the agricultural and plantation systems. Still, Bali has its own rich cultural heritage that maintains a strong and unique identity.

Natural Waterslides

Lemukih Village is in Sawan District, Buleleng Regency, a very natural and untouched area, housing at least seven waterfalls. For an unbelievable and memorable experience, hop on the natural water slide in the Lemukih village area. This 45-meter-long natural slide was previously used as a children’s playground in the village but is now being promoted to the larger community as a destination for natural water slides.

The Island of the Gods’ Offerings

The name ‘Bali’ means offering. The Balinese people practice a daily Hindu ritual, every morning, afternoon, and evening, of placing offerings in front of their homes and businesses. Canang Sari are little woven bamboo containers that often carry flowers, incense, sweets, fruits, cigarettes, and rice. The offering is a self-sacrifice due to the time it takes to prepare each one, handcrafted to invite the Gods down to the island to nurture and protect the land and people.

Visiting Bali

Getting to Bali is easy with My Bali. We create perfectly packaged holidays so all the planning is done for you, like flights, transfers, room upgrades, and bucket-list experiences. Book your perfect Bali escape with a My Bali Expert today.

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