Traveling on the Roads in Bali

There are so many interesting things about traveling in Bali, including the daily traffic on the roads.  Travelers often find it interesting, even amazing, that everyone works together so well in what seems to be a crowded scene of busy ants.  Especially during the rush hour, when it looks like there are no rules on the road.

If you're visiting Bali, you should take good care navigating the traffic, especially when you want to cross the road to the other side.  Why?  Because traffic will not stop for you, like it might in other countries.  When you cross the road, the safest way is to carefully look out around you in all directions and wait until there is no traffic, and then cross.  Of course, it is always safer to cross on the zebra striped pedestrian crossings.

Safer still, is to hire a local guide or driver, like me, to take you where you want to go, and help you make it through the difficult traffic.

I would love to help you make your Bali visit a wonderful and safe thing to remember.

Regards,

Made Suba

Balinese Wedding Culture, Past and Present

The island of Bali is well known as The Island of God, The Island of a Thousand Temples, and The Island of Offerings and Ceremonies.  One of the important ceremonies of Bali is Manusa Yadnya, also known as the Human ceremony, a tradition that honors different stages of human development, such as marriage.

In the past, during the Kingdom Era of Bali, there were three ways to get married: marriage by kidnapping, marriage by arrangement, and marriage by love.  Today, marriage is celebrated for three days after the formal ceremony.  The celebration takes place at the groom’s home.  Before the celebration, husband and wife are forbidden to leave their family compounds.  During the celebration, families come together to make many kinds of offerings, such as pebaya kaonan (an offering made of palm leaf and specific ingredients designed to keep evil spirits away from the celebration.)  Three seeds from the broom plant are offered (symbolizing the couple’s ability to overcome all manner of life’s obstacles,) and three cooking pots are provided (to express a wish of harmony for the couple.)

I am an English speaking, local Balinese driver, and guide.  I would love to share the Kingdom of a Thousand Islands with you.  Contact me if you would like guide or driver services on your visit to Bali.

Is It Safe To Drink The Water in Bali?

There are many thing that you have to be careful of drinking when you are travelling to Bali.  One of them is water.

When l was young kid, l lived in the mountain village named Kintamani. I used to drink water straight from the underground spring.  For me it was no problem.  But today, that under ground spring feeds houses, villas, and hotels, and it has become polluted.

Now I have to boil the water that comes from the spring to my house through my tap.  Boiling the water typically kills all the bacteria.  Then I keep it cold for drinking.

For travelers, it's best to drink bottled water only.  Brush your teeth with bottled water.  Try not to let the water from your bath or shower into your mouth.  Tourists usually don't have the option of boiling their water before consuming, like I do.  So please don't drink the tap water and stick to water you buy in a bottle.

I am an English Speaking, local Balinese driver and guide.  I'd love to help you have a great visit to the Island of the Gods

The Beautiful Floating Temple of Mengwi Village: Taman Ayun

Mengwi Village is the home to one of Bali's best-loved places, Taman Ayun Temple.  The name, Taman Ayun means beautiful, floating garden, and that is exactly what you'll find when you visit. Surrounded by two ponds, the temple appears to float on the water.

Taman Ayun was built by the King of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu in the year 1634.  It is divided into three courtyards.  the outer court yard can only be entered through the square pond park with nine fountains called the Cani Bentar.  The nine fountains symbolize Dewata Nawa Sanga, the nine central Gods of Balinese Hinduism. 

Taman Ayaun is also known as Royal Family Temple of Mengwi.  The inner court yard features shrines, one of which is for the honor and worship of the deities of the King's ancestors.

I would love to help arrange your visit to Mengwi Village.  I am an English Speaking, local Balinese guide, and driver.

Bali, Nusa Dua's Fantastic, Fun Outdoor Activities

Nusa Dua is one of the well-known tourist areas in Bali with five stars hotels and also the exciting sea activities, fun with a great challenge for everyone who joins this sport.

Nusa Dua offers you many fantastic activities: jet skiing, banana boat, fly fishing, snorkeling, parasailing, diving, fishing, glass bottom boat, and the amazing Turtle Island tour.

If you would like to know more about any of these activities, I would be happy to help you.

I'm an English speaking, local Balinese, driver, and guide, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Stunning Water Gardens: Tirta Gangga, the holy waters of the Ganges, in Bali!

 

One of the powerful kingdoms in Bali is Karangasem.  This kingdom was ruled by King Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem who built the famous Tirta Gangga water palace in the year 1948.

Tirta means holy water and gangga is taken from the name of India's holy river, the Ganges.This water palace was a place for the royal family to relax, welcome and entertain important guests of the surrounding kingdoms.

Today, the water gardens are open to the public.  Visitors can have a swim in the very refreshing spring water that comes up from the ground under a banyan tree.  This beautiful garden with is sprint water pools, is surrounded by charming views, and rice paddy fields.

Take notice of the park architecture.  It's a splendid blend of European, Chinese, and traditional Balinese styles.

My name is Made, and I'd love to be your English speaking, local Balinese driver, and guide.  Contact me for information about other excellent sites to see in Bali.

You might also enjoy Is It Safe To Drink The Water In Bali?

Visitors Are Amazed By These Ancient Tomb Temples

It's a bit of a walk down many stairs, but when you get to the bottom, what you see is amazing: The Royal Tomb Temple of Gunung Kawi.

This photo shows the royal candi where devotees pay respect to King Udayana and his family.

King Udayana and his queen, Gunapriya Darmapatni had three sons:

Airlangga (enthroned in Java) , Marakata and Anakwungsu.

King Udayana was replaced by Marakata and Marakata was replaced by Anakwungsu.  A Royal family indeed.

A visit to this sprawling holy place is well worth it.  But be sure to take water, and a sarong because wearing one is required to visit the holy place.

I'm an English speaking, local Balinese guide and driver with extensive knowledge about the history and spirituality of Bali.  I'd love to take you to amazing places of interest.

Balinese Names and Caste System - by an English Speaking Local Balinese Guide and Driver

Hello,

Names can tell you a lot in Bali.  Importantly, each of the four traditional names tells you whether a person was born first, second, third, or fourth in the family.  But there is more.

My whole name is I Made Suba.

You can call me Made (pronounced Mah-day.)  I have three brothers and one sister, and my name tells you I was the second born son in our family.  Everyone with the name Made -- and there are many of us -- was the second born.

Wayan is for the first born child,
Made is second born, and
Nyoman is for the third born.
Finally, Ketut  is for the fourth born child.

Notice the "I" in the name.  I is the title for a son, and Ni is the title for a daughter.

Easy right?  Not so fast.  These names are for the children born into the Sudra caste.  We have four castes in Bali:

Brahmin,
Kesatrya,
Wesya, and
Sudra.

And as you can guess, different names are used in different castes.  More about that another time.

Best regards,
I Made Suba

I'd love to be your local, English speaking guide and driver in Bali.  Contact me for more information about day trips or longer stays.

Historical Bali, The Former Powerful Kingdom of Klungkung with English Speaking Driver and Guide

Hello,

My name is Made, pronounced Mah-Day.  I am a local English speaking Balinese driver and guide and I would love to show you some of the historical sites on our island.

Kertah Gosa is one of them.  It is located in the regency of Klungkung of the former powerful kingdom located there.  This building was created in approximately 1700 by the King of Klungkung, I Dewa Agung Jambe.

Kertha means prosperity, jurisdiction, and penalization, and Gosa means the place to discuss.  So you can imagine that this place was used for some pretty important discussions about the prosperity and justice of Bali.

When the Dutch colonized this regency, the building took on different functions as a court of justice.  Notice the interesting decorations on the ceiling, they depict the famous shadow puppets of Bali.

Contact me for information about day trips or longer trips with English speaking guide services

Made.

Kecak, the Balinese Fire Dance

One of the most popular tourists experiences on Bali is the Kecak dance (pronounced Kechak), the famous Balinese Fire Dance. It is performed by approximately 100 dancers who make music with their voices in the form of a chattering sound "cakcakcak" from which the dance takes its name.

The dance portrays the well known Hindu epic story of the Ramayana, a story which some say is Bali's version of Romeo and Juliet, in other words, an epic love story.

A great way to watch this performance is with a background of a temple, on a cliff, during sunset! I can help you find the perfect Kecak dance to attend.  Contact me, I'd love to be your driver and guide in Bali.

Balinese Water Palace, Fit for a King with English Speaking Guide and Driver

Taman Ujung, known also as Ujung Water Palace was created by the King of Karangasem in 1919 to be the resting place for the royal family.  It was also used as a place to welcome and entertain visitors and state guests.

The design is magnificent, showing a blend of Balinese and European architecture.  The building shown in this photo is of the King's bedroom, family room, and visiting room.

Near the blue ocean water of eastern Bali, this amazing tourist site allows visitors to see mount Agung while enjoying a restive and awe inspiring experience in the royal setting.

I'd love to show you around Bali.  Contact me for more information about sites all visitors should definitely see while here.

Bali's Best Waterfall: Gitgit, a Must See for Tourists

This is a photo of the waterfall I think is the best in Bali.  It is called Gitgit after the village by the same name in Singaraja regency.

Gitgit's water is crystal clear and surrounded by stunning rainforest.  Along the path to the waterfall from the main road, tourists can see tropical plantations up close with clove trees, coffee bushes, and banana palms.

The lush growth makes the walk along the trail very pleasant, cool, and enjoyable.

I'd love to be your private guide to Gitgit.

Active Volcanoes In Bali: Batur and Agung

One of the spectacular attractions to Bali for tourists are the two volcanoes.  Batur and Agung are both climbable.

Mount Batur is an easier climb and popular among trekking enthusiasts.  Climbing up the active volcano is a good way to catch a beautiful Balinese sunrise.

This photo shows the panorama taking in Mount Agung, a photo I took from the top of Batur!

I'd love to take you there!  Contact me for information about my private guide and driver services.

The Most Well Known Balinese Site Throughout The World: Tana Lot Temple

Bali's Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most well known site throughout of the world. It was built by the Hindu priest, Dang Hyang Nirartha around the 16th century.

The word Tanah means land or rock, and the word Lot (or lod) means ocean or inside the ocean.  Together the words describe this temple which appears to be floating on the ocean when the tide is high.

Legend has it that the priest meditated on the rock where the temple is located.  he received a message from God that the site was an excellent spot to worship Baruna, the god of the ocean.  The story tells that when local villagers attempted to disturb him, he created holy snakes from his scarves to protect himself.  Holy snakes can be seen there to this day.

I'm a local Balinese, English speaking guide and private driver.  I'd love to show you around the island.

Bali's Penglipuran traditional village: Private Driver in Bali

Penglipuran village is one of the traditional villages in Bali which has a beautiful setting.

The word Penglipuran has a couple of meanings, such as "to remember the ancestors," and "the place for entertaining."

This village was built on the traditional Hindu concept of Tri mandala:  northern side or highest point houses the temple, the middle are is where the residents of the villagers live, and the southern point is where the cemetery is located.

The houses in the compound all have the same entrances, designed to keep mischievous spirits out.  Each house follows the same layout plan as the village.

I would love to be your private driver and show you the beauty of our local traditional villages.  I am an English speaking, Balinese driver, and guide.

Bali Adventures with ATV

Bali is famous for its temples and ceremonies. But did you know that you can also have exciting adventures on our island?  

ATV adventures are one of the most exciting, and challenging, activities available to tourists.  

I can help connect you with the adventure activity you desire.  If you decide that ATV is to be part of your Balinese adventure, you can expect to enjoy the real Bali, through the countryside, and breathtaking views of rice paddies, bamboo jungles, river beds and water.

Let me help you make your visit to Bali memorable.  I am a local, English speaking Balinese guide and would love to help you.

Bali, the Islands of Blessings and Offerings

Bali is an island of blessings.  The name Bali is related to the word "Wali" which means offering, and offerings are the heart of the local Hindu faith.

The Heart of Hindu Culture

The majority of the population on Bali practices Hinduism.  Temple ceremonies are an important part of the Balinese Hindu culture and every temple ceremony includes blessings and offerings.  They are colorful, beautiful, and spiritually significant.  I would love to show you the wonderful spirituality of our culture and serve as your guide and driver around Bali.

Decorated for Blessings

Temple ceremonies are scheduled based on the Balinese lunar calendar, recurring every six months or 210 days.  During temple ceremonies, the shrines and the buildings are decorated, and the people visiting the temple dress in traditional clothing.  Visitors are welcomed, and are expected to observe appropriate temple dress.  I can help you have a meaningful visit.

This photo shows a temple ceremony in progress at one of Bali's largest temples, Besakih Temple.

You may also be interested in reading about Bali's famous Monkey Forest in Ubud

White Water Rafting In Bali, English Speaking Guide and Driver

White Water Rafting wherever it takes place in the world is exciting, challenging, and enjoyable.

Ayung River, Central Bali

That's no exception in Bali where one of our most beautiful rivers, Ayung river, cascades through a deep ravine, providing an excellent water adventure for tourists.

The stunning natural scenery is part of the experience, and the river provides excitement and some challenging rapids.

All in all, white water rafting in Bali will provide an unforgettable experience, photographic opportunity, and memory from your vacation in Bali.

Blast From The Past

Sorting through my archives, I found this blast from the past, although the photo is older now, you can see how it captures the fun and enjoyment of rafting in Central Bali.  

English Speaking Guide

Let me assist you in setting up your white water rafting experience in Bali.  I'm an English speaking, experienced guide and driver, and I know my way around this amazing Island. I'd like to make your holiday be unforgettable.

Holy Water and Balinese Water Blessings: English Speaking Driver and Guide Services

Tirta is very important word in Hindu culture. It means holy water. Priests sprinkle Tirta before a blessing to purify the offering, the human body, and to protect the inner spirit from being influenced by evil spirits.  Hindu's also drink Tirta after prayers as a way of taking the blessing of God into their bodies.

In the photo above of a holy Balinese temple, fountains give Tirta into a pool where local Hindus collect the holy water for use at home in their family temples and shrines.

I am familiar with the best places to witness and experience Balinese Holy Water blessings.  I'm an English speaking driver and guide, and I would love to show you the sacred sites of Bali.

Ubud's Monkey Forest: Balinese Guide and Driver Services

The tropical Balinese rainforest provides a perfectly cool environment for monkeys to live in comfortably. Here a group of Macaca fascicularis enjoys relaxation time by grooming each other in the famous Ubud Monkey Forest.

More than 200 long tailed monkeys live in the forest. But they are divided into three strictly separate groups. Each group has its area and schedule. Outsider monkeys are not tolerated, and if a monkey from one group shows up at the wrong time and in the wrong place, you can be sure that a fight will follow.

No trip to Ubud is complete without a visit to the Monkey Forest, to see its monkeys and the beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.


I would love to be your guide and show you the wonders of Bali’s famous Monkey Forest.
Contact me using the form on this blog, or by clicking "About Made Suba" in the menu above.

You can also find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/SubaBaliTours

Uluwatu Temple - Bali Driver and Guide Services

This photo shows one of Bali's most beautiful temples which is perched on the top of a cliff,  Uluwatu Temple.

The cliff is about 97 meters high, making it an awesome place to enjoy a Balinese sunset, and take in the a breathtaking panoramic view.

The temple was discover by the Hidhu priest, Dang Hyang Nirartha around 1546 AD. After completing a spiritual pilgrimage abound the island of Bali, the priest returned to the site of the temple and it is said that there is where he attained self-realization, or moksha.  Soon after his experience, the temple was named Luhur Uluwatu.

Pura Luhur Uluwatu is definitely one of the top spots in Bali for beauty, culture, dance, and enjoyment.  Whether traveling alone or with friends, I would like to help you have an amazing experience of Bali.

Contact me so we can discuss how to make your Balinese holiday magnificent.

English speaking Balinese Guide

Made Suba

Please check out my testimonials for what other customers are saying.

Ulun Danu Beratan - Balinese Temple - Guide and Driver Services

This is Ulun Danu Beratan temple. An amazing experience for anyone visiting Bali.  But here is the thing, it's located about 1300 meters above sea level which makes it cool, even cold sometimes.

I'd love to drive you to Ulun Danu Beratan and help make your visit to Bali extraordinary.  

Ulun Danu Beratan is dedicated to the God Tri Murti, or the trinity of Bali's Brahma, Wisnu, and Shiva, with special emphasis to Shiva and Uma, and Wisnu and Sri Dewi Danu.

Sri Dewi Danu is considered to bring fertility and to watch over our agriculture, which makes this a very quite important to us Balinese.

Contact me if so I can help you with guide and driver services in Bali.  Whether you are traveling alone or with friends, I can help you have a wonderful experience in Bali.

You may also be interested in reading Rice Harvesting in Bali

Rice Harvesting In Bali - Tour Guide Services and Driver

There are generally two times of rice harvesting in Bali.  The growing season last four months followed by harvest.  This photos shows preparation for the new rice plantation.  

I would love to guide you through Bali and show you the best rice terrace views.  Whether you have a large group or are traveling alone, I can help your experience of Bali be friendly, inspiring, and enjoyable.

Contact me, Made (pronounced Mah-day) using the contact form on right or by telephone.

 

Balinese Dance - Guide Services

No visit to Bali is complete without experiencing Balinese Dance. 

 

I would love to help you experience Balinese culture and art.  Contact me for a soulful guide experience through Bali. 

Your Soulful Guide to the Islands of the Gods. Let me help you discover the Spirit of Bali. English speaking, honest tour guide and driver.   Made Suba

Balinese Culture - Guide Services

From local markets, to spiritual ceremonies, to spectacular subsets, I can help you have a satisfying and delightful experience of Bali. 

 

I would love to provide guide services for your visit to Bali.   Your Soulful Guide to the Islands of the Gods. Let me help you discover the Spirit of Bali. English speaking, honest tour guide and driver.

Made Suba

Sacred Mountains - Bali Guide Services

There are four main sacred mountains in Bali, Agung, Batur, Batukao and Abang.

Mt. Batur and Lake Batur are holy to Dewi Danu, the Goddess of the Lake.

I'd love to help you visit and explore our sacred sites.  Your Soulful Guide to the Islands of the Gods. Let me help you discover the Spirit of Bali. English speaking, honest tour guide and driver.

Made Suba

Goa Gaja - Bali Guide Services

A visit to Goa Gaja is easy and delightful for visitors staying in Ubud.  A short drive to the nearby archaeological site is rewarding with beauty, spirituality, and inspiration.

 

Recently renovated, this spectacular site takes the visitor back in time, suggesting many previous inhabitants.

I'd love to accompany you to Goa Gaja and tell you more about this amazing place.  Your Soulful Guide to the Islands of the Gods. Let me help you discover the Spirit of Bali. English speaking, honest tour guide and driver.