A packed weekend – Part 3 (Sunday)

Last year I visited several GKPB churches, but this year I’ve only worshipped at two.  The “Yudea” congregation less than a 10 minute walk from the campus is definitely the closest, but the service is (not surprisingly) in Indonesian.  I prefer to take a taxi to Seminyak where I worship with the English speaking congregation at Sto Mikael, at the entrance to the Dhyana Pura Beach Resort Hotel.

Sto Mikael Church, Seminyak

The illuminated church is an unexpected sight by night

The early morning and evening congregations are for local folk.  The 10 am service is for a few English speaking local people, temporary residents, longer term visitors, and guests from some of the nearby hotels.  The building is intriguing, as it looks like no other GKPB church.  The church buildings usually follow traditional Balinese architectural styles.  Sto Mikael looks, as you can see, like something lifted from Europe.  It is actually a business venture for a company which provides wedding packages for mainly Japanese couples who want a European style wedding – wooden pulpit, stained glass windows and all.  The local church gets the use of the building, and this also makes it “a real church”, not just a wedding hall.  The worship leaders have been very hospitable and made me feel at home there.

Elder Pica Turker welcomes folk to Sto Mikael

After church I often walk along Seminyak beach, south towards Legian, but rarely as far as Kuta – a place which holds little attraction for me.  Sometimes there are few people, but on this day the beach was crowded.  Visitors were roasting themselves on hired deck chairs (I saw some impressive cases of developing sunburn) and some were surrounded by up to 4 massage ladies – one for each limb.  Hawkers and vendors moved amongst the chairs and umbrellas trying to sell ice-creams, fruit, kites, watches, decorative knife sets, sunglasses, paintings – it if it was small and portable someone was trying to sell it.

Hawkers find a target.

A beachside massage from one of the many elderly massage ladies

The bankers take to the beach for fun and fundraising

In one area there were many people wearing “Bankers Against AIDS” T-shirts.  A banking group was having a beach day with surfing lessons, beach activities, lunch and so on.  Surfing schools were instructing visitors, and photographers with long lenses were capturing their early efforts in the hope of selling photos to the surfers.  Boys were flying kites, and men were selling kites.  It was a busy beach, and the surf was reasonable. 

One of the many types of novelty kites on sale on the beach.

A surfing instructor demonstrates stance to learners

Another group of learners takes to the water

Although Kuta’s original attraction was the wide beach and surf, on most days I’ve been here the surf has been quite poor.  The beach impresses many of the Europeans and those used to rocky coastlines, but I prefer the best of the Australian beaches.  As many of the large stormwater drains discharge across the beach to the sea, the beach and waters can be left in a foul state after heavy rains.  There has been no rain this year so far, but last year I saw the beaches covered with greasy slicks and littered with plastic bags and all sorts of rubbish.  It is a big problem across Bali, and although the “Keep Bali Clean and Green” message is growing, there is a huge job ahead to change public behaviour, especially when rubbish collection services are so limited.  “Put it in a bin” is a good start, but unless the bin is emptied and rubbish collected, eventually the bin fills and contents spill out (or someone burns it to make more room).



Lifesaving club at Seminyak

The logo says it all!

The main stretches of beach north from Kuta are patrolled by the surf lifesaving group, the Balawista.  They have interesting club houses along the coast with their graphic logo depicting a hand jutting up from the waves.  It is a very good visual message! 

The grounds of the Dhyana Pura were almost deserted 2 weeks ago.  The bright sun had brought many guests to the pool and surrounds but few had ventured in to the beachside cafe.  There I had lunch with Jim Speelman, the coordinator of the visits by Dutch students for their semester of intensive English, Indonesian and business studies at Dhyana Pura Campus. The bumbu grilled fish was delicious but the bumbu (“spiced”) was just a bit too bumbu after my walk.  The chili was so strong that I had to remove the loose “topping” and after that the taste was about right.

From Hotel Dhyana Pura I returned to Campus Dhyana Pura where preparing 4 sets of lessons for classes on Monday kept me up until late.  From early Friday afternoon until Sunday night I’d had quite a full schedule. The new week sould start with lessons at 7:30.

Paul in Bali
September 2011

A packed weekend – Part 2 (Saturday)

On Friday the Rektor of the University invited me to travel with him to Gianyar in eastern Bali to collect his daughter after a training placement in the city's hospital.Gianyar was once a centre of royal power, priestly knowledge and training, and a centre of the arts.  It is not on the usual tourist list, but it is famed as the source of Bali’s best “babi guling”, or spiced and glazed roast pig.  This alone was worth an outing. 

Before we could travel east we drove south along crowded roads, past tourist-mecca Kuta and Jimbaran, the home of fresh seafood, to the vicinity of Pecat, almost as far south as you can get in Bali.  The small peninsula which hangs like a little knob beneath Bali is geologically very different to the rest of Bali.  It is also very dry, and seems to have little in common in appearance with the rest of Bali.  The landscape was parched, dusty and brown.  The lush greenery of most of Bali is lacking here.  The trees were sparse, shrivelled and dried up.  The local building bubble burst and large, partially constructed buildings were common.  It was if I had been transported to another place.

 

Dr Nayandra, a practising psychiatrist, made a house call to visit a Balinese family and discuss treatment options and how to deal with mental illness in a community which still takes a traditional attitude to such conditions.  Shoes off, we sat on a traditional “bale”, or small, open sided pavilion, in the family compound.  The main buildings were constructed of the traditional Balinese red stone with light coloured stone surrounds decorating the doorway and windows.

Eventually we headed north, then east across the edge of Denpasar, the capital of the Province of Bali.  I noticed some new, high platforms being used as bus stops.  Soon I saw what they had been built for – Bali’s first public bus system.  The “Sarbagita” system began operations in late August, and is experiencing a few teething problems.  The 15 large buses are too large for some roads, and the community is not used to using public buses.  The name “Sarbagita” is derived from the cities it serves.  Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar and Tabanan.

The bus stop platforms are almost a meter above the road surface because of the high entry to the buses.

One of the 15 new Sarbagita buses (note the high doorway)

Photos: http://blog.baliwww.com/bali-news-events/30816

After turning off the highway east we travelled along narrow country roads, seeing farmers threshing rice, and past fields where the major crop was tobacco.  In places trays of shredded tobacco leaf was spread on large trays along the side of the road to dry in the hot sun.  Whilst I have seen tobacco growing before, I had not seen chopped tobacco drying like this.

Chopped tobacco drying in the sun beside the road

Soon after these sightings we caught up with slow moving traffic and were then waved on by traffic police who had closed the road to Gianyar.  With nowhere else to go, and no turn-offs we travelled northwards  The major disruptions to traffic were caused by local ceremonies, including at least 2 large cremations.  The day was obviously an auspicious day in the Balinese calendar, and good for cremations.  For an hour and a half we crawled on, north through Ubud and then southward past Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) which was also crowded.  Once past Goa Gajah we were finally able to pick up speed and travel on to Gianyar.

We collected Dr Nyandra’s daughter much later than expected and went to the main street where street vendors displayed and served a variety of local dishes, but it was babi guling which attracted us.  This famous dish is the traditional Balinese way to prepare roast pork.  The pig is stuffed with mixes of local spices, rubbed all over with turmeric, and continually basted while it is slowly roasted over an open fire. 

A beautiful, crispy-skinned babi guling.

A whole babi guling looks spectacular, and is wonderful to taste.  Until now I’d just had small pieces which were not much more than taste samples.  This meal of babi guling, with a generous serve of crackling and also local sausage, was unlike anything I’ve had before.

After a meal of new and unusual tastes (well, new for me anyway) we returned to Dalung, taking a different route so we avoided the obstructed areas, and we soon home.

In the evening I attended the wedding banquet of Koko and Melly who held their reception on the University oval.  Last year I was pleased to attend 6 weddings, but this was my first for this year.

Last year, and again this year I was both intrigued and amused by the traditional cutting of the cake.  But usually it isn’t a cake, but a large mock up, towering high above the bridal couple who go through the motions of "cutting it” with a real sword.

Two young girls in traditional costume provided a dance which even after seeing several times, I still greatly enjoy for its charm, grace and movement.

At the reception were several of the University staff, including guests Maria and Nyoman.  Maria is a charming colleague from the University.

After the usual formal photos with family had been taken, several of the groom’s friends joined him.  This was the most unusual wedding group photo I’ve seen – the friends were wearing football shirts, and displaying "United" football magazines for the camera.

The newly-weds with "United" supporters displaying magazines.

After the reception was over I returned to my room, ready for bed after a long and interesting day, with several "firsts” for me – Bali buses, drying tobacco, babi guling, first wedding for 2011 and first football magazines at a wedding.

Paul in Bali
September 2011

A packed weekend – Part 1 (Friday)

Last year I got out and about quite often.  This year has been much quieter, and some weekends have had little of interest.  The weekend just past was the busiest I have had since arriving, and was also a weekend of “firsts” for this trip.  I’ll list them later, just in case you didn't spot them.

Just so I can have 3 parts to this Blog I’ll start on Friday afternoon.  What I call “the dining season” started 2 weeks ago.  The students get to practice food and beverage service skills in the training kitchen and restaurant.  On Friday the students in my Tuesday English classes were cooking and serving dinner.  They were to repeat this at lunch on Saturday but taking different roles. 

I get a free meal, but as they say "there's no such thing as a free meal".  I work for my meal by running a small and different conversation session.

Kevin looks after the fish soup

This time it was the Indonesian menu number 4 – one which eluded me last year.  Students were keen for me to try this as it included “Semur Daging Sapi” which I had used as an illustration in my classes.  To demonstrate to students that waiters must know the menu details I would ask “Is this suitable for vegetarians,  Muslims, Balinese Hindus etc …?”   This menu was definitely not suitable for strict vegetarians as the soup contained fish (“Ikan Laut”) and the main course was based on beef (“Daging Sapi”).

Each student prepares a popular cocktail under
instruction, then all are tested on the names,
content and preparation of each drink.

V/director Sidhi Turker emphasises
 the finer point of table setting.

Students were split into groups which would prepare and cook the dinner, serve as waiters, and learn and serve cocktails. Once the meal was ready all students other than the “waiters” and the small group in kitchen “plating up” became “guests”.

Having finished preparing cocktails students
now wait to be seated as dinner guests.

 Students were split into groups which would prepare and cook the dinner, serve as waiters, and learn and serve cocktails.  Once the meal was ready all students other than the “waiters” and the small group in kitchen “plating up” became “guests”.

Their kitchen duties finished, these
cooks now wait to be seated as guests.

My “fellow guests” at the table were Ika and Adit.

During dinner I have a small captive audience for my English conversation activities.  Ika is used to the routine, having experienced it last year, but it was new for Adit.  The dinner went well, although Erick, our waiter, did show signs of stress as I asked him about the ingredients.  Like a good teacher I has prepared for the lesson and studied the menu with the list of ingredients.  A good dinner, with good company – what a fine start to the weekend.

Did you spot the “first”?  Yes, my first sampling of the Indonesian menu 4:  Asinan Jakarta salad as appetiser, Soup Ikan Laut, main course of Semur Daging Sapi, topped off with Pisang Goreng (fried banana) with vanilla sauce.

Paul in Bali

September 2011

Photo Gallery - Dhyana Pura Family Picnic

"Panjat Pinang" - the challenge is to climb the greasy pole and claim the prizes.

See my earlier Blog for read about the picnic evening.

Click the link to enter the Picasa Web Album.  In the Album click on individual images to enlarge.

https://picasaweb.google.com/110038041647560744460/DhyanaPuraFamilyPicnic#

Family picnic evening

On Sat 27^th August the University (I have to stop calling it “college”) held a picnic evening for staff and families.  Many took the opportunity to join in this enjoyable evening and either take part in, or just watch, the activities.

Dr Mastra welcomes families to the event.

Some of the new generation of recent appointees enjoy the evening

Folk at the University are much less concerned about “invasion of personal privacy” and so on than we are at home, and birthdays are known to all.  Four staff members with birthdays in August (it’s not as popular as the month of October when I had my “honorary Bali birthday” last year) were presented with a Balinese birthday treat – a cake of rice (of course!), but the wind kept blowing out the candles before the birthday 4 got the chance!

The wind did not cooperate!

During the day an important structure had appeared – a greased pole. This was to be the centre of much speculation, amusement, and competition later in the evening.  Climbing the "Panjat Pinang" (greasy pole) is a sport traditionally contested on August 17th, Independence Day.  The “pole” was a trimmed tree trunk on top of which was a hoop from which dangled plastic bags containing pieces of paper which may, or may not, contain the number of a prizes to be won. During the evening rice cookers, two foldup bicycles, 2 TVs and a number of smaller items were to be won.

The greasy pole.

It wasn’t long before the serious business started.  I was allocated to team 4 in the men’s tug-of-war.  Teams 1 and 2 competed in a bout which was quickly over. 

Heave …. Heave…..!

Teams 3 and 4 were evenly matched and each team won an “end” in two hard pulls.  In the “decider” my team gave a little ground, regained it and then ever so slowly pulled the other team across the line.  It was a hard pull and we were exhausted.  Days later I still have a couple of strained muscles and a sore spot on my ribs where a knee caught me as we tumbled backward at the end.  Unfortunately the owner of the knee came off second best when I landed back on him.

This tug was not hard enough to lose the smiles

There was a good deal more laughter and less grunting and groaning in the ladies events, but the pursed lips on the finalists showed they were taking it seriously.

Now this is more serious!

Unfortunately the massive effort in the third pull of our heat had taken its toll on my team, and in our crippled state we were no match for the other team which easily dragged us across the line.   I don't recall what the winning team won, but we got a blue plastic spoon.  We weren't really "wooden spooners" - afterall, we beat team 3!

 Soon it was time for the main event – the pole climb.  Two teams had nominated, and there styles were very different.  Each team of 4 had a limited amount of time to hoist one member high enough to snatch as many of the hanging plastic “prizes” as possible before the time ran out.  Team one started with the 2-man base crouching with arms circling the pole; another climbed on their shoulders, and another on his.  The base then stood up, lifting the top man (the diminutive “Professor” Rai, appearing to me in quite a new light!) up high enough to grasp the prize.

Preparing the base of the tower.

Now for next level.

And the small "picker" on the top!

The second team had an effective but less elegant approach.  Not for them the two-man base wrapped around the pole.  Brute strength for this team.

Not elegant, but they can reach the top.

When the second team’s time had expired there were still some prizes left, so team one gain hoisted the agile “Prof” Rai up the pole, and in a desperate race against the clock he hoisted himself even higher so he could grab the remaining prizes.

"Prof Rai" displays good form, edging higher to reach the prizes.

After the event the contestants lined up to claim prizes which were presented by Dr Mastra, the Chairman of the Dhyana Pura Foundation.



Barnabas claims a prize.

Dr Mastra presents a bicycle to the victors.

As most watched the tree climb event others prepared the food for later.  It did look as if the grilled fish was fast becoming smoked fish, and the team resorted to “fan forced” cooking techniques.

Pak Joko adjusts the fan so I get maximium smoke.

The smoked / grilled fish was delicious.

Pak Sidhi compered the lucky draws – people came and draw a piece of plastic straw from the bag.  Rolled inside the bag was a piece of paper, some of which had prize numbers.  Unfortunately for most “kosong” (nothing, nil) was the outcome.

Bu Sidhi checks a number as Pak Sidhi calls out names

Checking the number.  Will I get a prize?

 After all prizes had been allocated and claimed the food was served.  The fish and sate sticks were well cooked and the sweet Balinese dessert of rice, coconut and palm sugar syrup was delicious.  Apart from the novelty of the greasy pole climb, a traditional Indonesian competitive amusement, it reminded me of family picnic days from long ago. They were happy memories.

PPLP Wisuda XXVI (2011)

No special occasion would be complete without several of these

On Thursday 25^th August, 2011, the Dhyana Pura college held the Wisuda for PPLP students receiving certificates and diplomas across a range of hospitality and tourism study areas.  Apart from the change of venue, it was very much like Wisuda XXV.  That’s a simple observation, not a criticism.  I enjoyed the Wisuda last year, so for me "familiarity" was welcome, and a reminder of last year’s event with its familiar activities.  Besides, most of the students only have a single Wisuda ceremony and celebration, so for them it will always be unique. 

Ika holding the memento each student receives at the Yudisium

Fabbi checks that the Director has the correct trophy

If you recall my blog of last year, or check it in the Archives (at right of screen entry of 29/8/11) you will notice that this blog, like the Wisuda itself, is just like last year! To repeat last year’s note, the end of course awards procedure is a 2 stage process. The first stage -  Yudisium - is an in house, no frills occasion for the students only (and volunteer teachers!). That was held last Tuesday (23/8/11). The successful students are congratulated by the director and 3 vice-directors, and they receive a personalised memento of their time at the college. They hear a range of formal speeches, and presentations by 3 recruiting agents. 

Students hold their trophies and listen to speeches

Two days later is the Wisuda, a more formal, more colourful affair to which family members are invited.  The boys wear formal college uniform with blazer, but the girls come splendidly attired in national costume, and with hair specially coiffed and held in place by beautiful jewellery.  Student welcomers and helpers are dressed formally in traditional costume and look very beautiful (or handsome) and colourful.

The girls arrived at 5 to begin dressing and applying makeup
(that's me in the mirror - just to prove I was really there)

Kawi and Ika welcome guests to the occasion

Ayu, Juni and Putri dressed in formal costume look very
different to the shy young students I recall from last year.

I Made Mudayasa, student and member of the college
housekeeping team, with Ika before the presentations

I was graciously included with dignitaries and VIPs and entered to take a place at the front of the auditorium (the convention room of the Patra Hotel at Tuban).  The gamelan band played a vigorous welcome, the dancers performed graciously as before, and the ceremony began. 

Dhyana Pura dancers at the start of the event

The "Wibusani" gamelan band members
watch and keep time with the dancers

Soon after the guests, students and families were welcomed the presentations began.  Director Joko presented 220 students with certificates and diplomas.  Amongst that number were 2 members of the college housekeeping staff whom I see regularly, and several students I worked with last year.  It was a pleasure to see them achieve success in their studies.

Mr Eko and Bu Widya manage the student movement to the stage

Ni Luh Putu Wiranti, college housekeeping team
 member, proudly displays her certificate.

Arista, one of my English students,
prepares medals for presentation

The most successful students in their courses were acknowledged and for me it was a delight to share the occasion with Cherista (“Cherish”) Lanjani, one of the students I spoke with in the first days of her new course last year.  In common with the STIM students who graduated from their degree course 2 weeks ago, there were oaths of allegiance, and the singing of the school hymn. 

Top student Cherish leads students in the Oath of Allegiance

Top students and prize winners receive recognition from the audience

Many college occasions end with a lucky draw or door prize, and I “won” a surprise parcel which turned out to be a clock with the face displaying the college name and logo.  Good, I need a clock, but it will be tricky to pack.

Yeni and Eko (Mr Personality) manage the "door prize" draws

An enjoyable buffet in the dining room beside the beautiful pool with sea views followed the formal event.  Just as at the STIM Wisuda luncheon, “English bread and butter pudding” was on the desserts table.  It’s one of my favourites from way, way back.

Another Wisuda.  New places, new faces, but pleasingly much the same as last year – the way I liked it.  Congratulations and thanks to students and staff, helpers, and all who welcomed me to their celebration

Paul in Bali

More photos can be seen in my Web Album "PPLP Wisuda".  You can access them via the blog entry:  "Photo Gallery - PPLP Wisuda XXVI" in the Archive section of this Blog page.
-or-
Click the link
https://picasaweb.google.com/110038041647560744460/PPLPWisudaXXVI#
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LARGE movie file, so do not attempt to view this across a slow network connection.