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Bali, is a small tropical oasis in the islands of Indonesia. The main religion of Bali is Hinduism, the surrounding Indonesian islands are mostly Muslim. This does not seem to deter the Balinese people. They are zealous about their religion, every aspect of their lives seems to revolve around their beliefs.

The people's devotion starts every morning with the offerings given to their many deities which are found in shrines literally on every street. Each home has their own shrine that is carefully looked after. There you will find their offerings of mostly flowers and fruit. The birds happily come to the shrines to feast on the food found there.

The Balinese have many celebrations in their journey of faith. They dress in their very best of silk sarongs and headdresses. The women can be seen walking in a procession for one celebration or another with beautiful displays of fruit and flowers piled high upon their heads, gifts to the gods. They walk stately as if these tall offerings are as nothing on their heads. They decorate poles that line streets with beautiful flowers and silk. It is all quite a wonderful sight to see.

Many of the gods of Hinduism are quite frightening, their statues are found everywhere. Dragon-like images and horrendous looking manlike creatures with large teeth, claws and frightening eyes. Each can be found with decorations of leis and/or black and white checked cloth that is wrapped around them.

Their are some very magnificent temples that are hundreds of years old. They feature the five tiered buildings similar to Chinese ones. Some have many steps to climb to get to the main temple area. To do so men and women must wear a sarong around their waist to show respect for the gods. Westerners are invited to visit them, though there are some places that only Hindus can enter. There always seems to be Balinese people coming and going from worship there. You can see the monks reciting prayers and lighting incense, accepting the gifts from the followers.

The people live their lives in peace and tranquility. They are quite a happy people and love to hear about others family. They are very tolerant of other faiths and enjoy sharing their little place of paradise with visitors.

If you wish to see another culture and meet the most amiable people on earth, go to Bali. You will find great adventure, beautiful scenery and devote people that should all give us awe on how to live a good life.

Learn more about this author, Rosemary Sulz.
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