Known for its ravishing coastal holidays, what is perhaps less known about Bali is its exotic culture rich in folk themes and ancient mythology. Visitors who flock to Bali looking for a typical island experience would welcome the distraction offered by some of these cultural items and performances that really enhances the vacation experience and one’s understanding of the Balinese culture.
Among the most prominent dancing items of Bali, Barong takes a centre place. Barong itself is a lion like creature described in Balinese mythology as a the king of spirits and hosts of the good spirit. The good spirit that accompanies a child thoroughout his life is known as the Banas Pati Raja which is the spirit that is claimed to guide the Barong, a lion like creature with a red head and thick fur and neck ornamented with glittering jewels that include mirrors and is usually accompanied by two monkeys. The Barong dance is actually the enacting of the story between the Barong and its opposing force Rangda. It is a dance performed as a play with the first act starting as two monkeys teasing the Barong. This is later followed by the fight between the Barong and the Rangda which represents the fight between the good and the evil.
For a traveler the Barong dance can present an appealing diversion to the cultural activities that he gets to witness, having been originated from the authentic Balinese history although it has lately got somewhat commercialized. However most aspects of the dance are considered and enacted carefully according to tradition and the masks of the dance are considered to be very sacred items. There is a even a ritual that the priest has to offer blessings as well as sprinkling of holy water before the masks are ready to be worn.
Bali hotels are another alluring dimension to these islands and their fabulous coastal vacations that are renowned throughout the world. Anantara Seminyak Bali offers some fabulous residences such as expansive ocean view suites and penthouses that over look the vast Indian ocean and its mesmerizing sunsets over the large glass balconies. This famous Bali hotel is sure to make you pause in your quest for a place of residence that epitomizes what Bali is famous for together with modern comforts that one simply cannot forego.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
