A Spotlight on Inspiring Women
In March and April, two important days invite us to take a moment to celebrate the women around us: International Women’s Day on 8 March and Indonesia’s Kartini Day on 21 April, a commemoration of Raden Adjeng Kartini who fought for women’s rights and education. Here in Bali, where women are really the backbone of society

Studio Gelombang: Nurturing Young Artists, Preserving the Batuan Legacy
In the heart of Bali, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, a vibrant movement is emerging—one that honours the island’s centuries-old artistic heritage while fostering the creative spirit of a new generation. This movement thrives at Studio Gelombang, an inspiring sanctuary founded by Made Griyawan, a visionary artist committed to preserving and evolving the Batuan

Rethinking Bali’s Future: Do We Really Have Such Short Memories?
That’s a pretty strange statement to begin with at a time when everyone is talking about ‘New Year, New Me, New Start, a Fresh Beginning’ etc, etc. but can Bali actually make a new beginning? One that turns the corner to a bold new way of doing things? The Spanish – American philosopher George Santayana thoughtfully

A Tasteful Step for Balinese Chocolate
Founders of Mason Adventures, Nigel and Yanie Mason, were in search of a new line of business outside of adventure tours and not directly linked to tourism. After exploring prospective opportunities in Bali, they saw that the Balinese chocolate industry had a lot of potential. There are of course existing chocolate makers, but with new

Volunteering in Bali: Unique Fundraising Activities and Opportunities
For those looking to make their time on the island as meaningful as possible, there are many ways to raise funds for those in need. Volunteering in Bali doesn’t have to be longterm, whether you’re here on holiday or even a resident wanting to ‘give back’, we’ve curated a list of interesting experiences and activities

The Community Waste Project: Bali Businesses Band Together to Develop a Sustainable Waste Management Facility
There is no doubt that Bali has a waste issue. Behind the images of pristine landscapes and coastlines, so often used to entice visitors, a closer look at the island’s environment and one will find rampant plastic pollution and general waste management issues. Taking matters into their own hands, a coalition of Bali businesses decided

Best Charities in Bali: Supporting Trusted Foundations and NGOs
Here we highlight some of the best charities in Bali, significant foundations and charitable who are addressing the often unseen challenges across the island. From empowering children’s education to providing lifesaving medical services and even saving Bali’s beloved animals, see how you can further their great efforts and help to make a difference. The listed

A Time for Reflection: Can We Find Peace This Christmas?
Christmas is the time for those following the Christian faith to joyfully celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and to proclaim “Peace on Earth and Goodwill to All” which seems to be much needed these days, especially and ironically in the very area where Jesus was born, where there is such violence still continuing and

Marak and Ark: Bali Welcomes Two New Premium Arak Brands
Adding to the impressive list of Bali-made spirits, the recently launched Marak and Ark bring a new take on the island’s traditional spirit of arak. Brought to the market by Indoestri Teluk Saba, the two brands aim to support arak farmers in Karangasem whilst elevating the name and reputation of this culturally-significant, artisanal alcoholic beverage.

Undagi Tapel: The Mask Carvers of Bali
Mask carvers are one of Bali’s most important artisans. Through their delicate creations, these skilled craftsmen give life to the characters on Bali’s ritual dance stage. Of course, on the island of the gods, a mask is more than just a mask: it is a sacred object, a medium, and a tool of transformation. Masks

Green School Foundation’s IGNITE Fundraising Gala 2024: A Stunning Cultural Showcase
A cultural spectacle unfolded on 21 September 2024 as the Green School Foundation held their annual ‘IGNITE Fundraising Gala’. The distinguished event, held in the royal palace of Puri Agung Kerambitan, Tabanan, was a magical experience from start to finish, featuring extravagant presentations of Balinese dance, music, art and cuisine. The mission of the Green

The Seaweed Farmers of Nusa Lembongan
Across the Badung Strait lies three special islands off the coast of mainland Bali. The now famous Nusa Penida, a large and rugged isle that has become a mainstream day-tripper destination, and the two smaller islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Between Lembongan and Ceningan, a unique aspect of local life is found, in

In Memoriam: Robert Epstone of SoleFamily Bali
It is with deep sadness that we share news of the passing of Robert Epstone, a beloved humanitarian, visionary, and co-founder of SoleFamily (previously Solemen Indonesia). After a brave and courageous battle with brain cancer, Robert passed away peacefully on 1 October 2024, leaving behind a legacy of boundless compassion and selflessness. He touched the