Just like a beautiful Japanese bonsai, the Tanah Lot Temple sits suspended on a huge black, volcanic rock in the middle of the sea in Bali, Indonesia with its green foliage spilling over the cliffs. The words Tanah Lot mean “Land Sea” in Balinese and I’m surprised that this little island hasn’t washed away with the temple drifting off into the sea, especially on the day we visted; the weather was dreary, rainy and the waves were crashing hard against the rock! Claimed to have been the inspiration of a priest named Nirartha, Tanah Lot was constructed in the 15th century as a holy place to worship the Balinese sea gods. It’s even believed that giant, poisonous sea snakes live and swarm the base of the rocky island, guarding the temple from evil spirits. Today, the temple is only open to Hindus and closed for tourists. But it’s just as beautiful glimpsing it from afar. Although we were unable to stay and watch the sunset over this magnificent temple, I urge anyone that has the chance to visit to go later in the afternoon to experience it. I’m sure it’s just beautiful watching the sun’s colors glisten over the temple as it sets on the horizon.
If you want to read more about our trip to Bali, please click here AND here.
That’s me in the pink top on the right…across the water from my husband. There was a smaller temple located out on this rock. This bridge would never be allowed for tourists to cross in America…I think it was a wee-bit dangerous!
On our way out, we passed by this massive market.
This was my favorite shop by far. Recognize that sign?
Maybe you are enjoying your Starbucks right now as you are waking up and getting ready for your day in the US. I’m off to bed in a couple hours here in Malaysia. Have a great Thursday!
6.) The Mangosteen was the sixth fruit that I tried in my taste test. They have a hard outer shell and when you cut into them, it looks like you have just discovered a head of garlic with perfect little cloves attached. I pulled a couple out to taste them and was surprised on how sweet and juicy they were. The texture is definitely something to get used to, but it’s a nice little treat once you get past the outer cover.
7.) Cutting into this big Soursop was an experience in itself. I even had to exchange my smaller knife for its bigger mommy! Unfortunately, I don’t think the Soursop we bought was as ripe as it should have been, but I tried it nonetheless. It lacked flavor and seemed super sour, but again, it may not have been ripe yet. I will have to give Soursop another try sometime soon.
8.) Check out this fruit, it’s the Dragon Fruit! What beautiful colors and the skin is amazing with its spikes! Dragon Fruit has definitely become one of my favorites here in Malaysia. The texture reminds me of a harder watermelon, like cutting a piece of cantaloupe with lots of little seeds. But unlike watermelon, you can eat all these seeds and they are pretty tasty!
Well, there you have it…the nine Malaysian fruits that I picked up from the grocery store this weekend. Before today, I stuck with my favorite and more recognizable fruits from home, but I’m so glad I decided to branch out and try these unique Fruits of Malaysia!
