I have been thinking about putting together a coffee-table book on yoga for quite a while. My last trip to Bali really brought the idea home. There I practiced yoga with Prem Carlisi and Heather Duplex in the most beautiful environment. Even though I had had a break from yoga for about 8 weeks, the warmth of the humidity in January 09 melted my muscles and I was able to get right back to it.

This time Prem and Heather stayed at the Ananda Cottages, which is right on the main road of Ubud. I believe it was their first time there and they loved it so much they have decided to spend five months teaching ashtanga there.

The Ananda Cottages were quite lovely. The rooms immaculate, yet simple (no TV or internet). The best rooms are the ones right at the back near the coconut trees and the rice paddies. They have two wonderful swimming pools and a good restaurant. I think it cost me about $800 for two weeks including food and room service. But I live a lavish life, you could do it for half the price.

There are some things worth knowing about going to Ubud, namely how much to tip and how to barter. Everybody barters and everybody tips. Tipping is very minimal as wages in Bali are quite low, something like $40 a month. There are internet cafes everywhere and most restaurants offer free wi-fi.

As soon as I arrived I met two long-time practicing traveling ashtangis, Chris and Roshan. The former from Germany and the latter from the U.K. I have to bless which ever deity was looking after me because these two handsome and charming fellows made my trip ten times more worth while. Chris was an absolute powerhouse of energy and full of initiative to work out how to get the best out of everything. Roshan, well if i had been 10 years younger.... Anyway, one of the benefits of traveling and doing yoga is that it provides you with instant connections and friends. As they say "people of a feather, flock together".




Namaste

Sandra