Slice of Paradise

I spent this morning exploring the stepped paddy fields and royal gardens of Bali on a motorbike. Before you start conjuring up images of me in a leather jacket riding a Harley Davidson, let me set your mind at rest. I was riding pillion on a kapcai (Honda Cub) with a brave little Balinese man named Wayan. Humble transportation aside, let me assure you that the views were stunning. There was a slice of paradise along every turn as we made our way up the hilly slopes from Candidasa to Amlapura.

I wish we could have taken photos of the green paddy fields and majestic Mt Agung set against a bright blue sky with the azure sea in the distance. But there was just no stopping that determined kapcai. I could almost hear its little engine chanting "I think I can - I think I can - I think I can" as it chugged its way up to the Tirtagangga Gardens.

The water gardens have been part of the Karangasem royal estate for the last century. Set on a plateau surrounded by hills and paddy fields, it is a sight to behold. The entrance, as pictured above, is breathtakingly beautiful. Unlike other royal spaces, this gem of a garden has been open to the local Balinese people since its inception. This is also the site of the holy water springs that provides irrigation for the surrounding farmlands.

Joanna with Li Ki (in pink hat) and Wayan (my brave motorbike guide)

Li Ki and Ayu posing prettily at the water ponds of Tirtagangga

Li Ki and I were blessed to have the company of two wonderful friends, Ayu and Wayan, who proudly showed us round their hometown. Their gentle demeanours and big beautiful smiles reflect a friendship that is heart-warmingly genuine. They were generous with their knowledge and openly shared stories of their lives, loves and dreams. Wayan summed up his philosophy of life for me with these few words " In Bali, there's no stress. What we have, we enjoy as a gift from God".

Wise words which will accompany me over the next few months...