HT: Bali-Blog2

By early evening of my first day, I’m itching to leave the resort grounds and head to a beachside hot spot—Ku de Ta, shown—populated by young and beautiful expats, European tourists, and a smattering of hip Asians. Upon exiting the cab, I make my way up a path dotted with weapon-toting security guards—the legacy of the bombings that all but obliterated tourism in Bali a couple of years ago.
I choose a spot outside, facing the water. Nursing a rosy-hued cocktail, I chat with German and Australian patrons and watch surfers ride the waves as the sky prepares for sunset—it comes on cue at around 6:15; the Equator doesn't permit much variation in this part of the world. As the sun fades, candles are lit all around, allowing just enough light for the hawkers of colorful kites and beads below the terrace to be seen.