In the US, Bali is known as one of the choice destinations for honeymoons. The book and subsequent movie, Eat, Pray, Love, only heightened the desire for Americans to put it on their bucket list. Since my arrival in Southeast Asia, many have stated that Bali was nice but definitely not one of the top beach destinations in the region. It did not deter me from keeping it on my bucket list.
While most of Indonesia follow Islam, Balinese primarily practice a form of Hinduism, thereby much of its arts and culture are steeped in such rituals and traditions. One of its popular rituals is Kecak (a fire dance of mostly men who provide the sound effects to a music drama where Prince Rama battles King Ravana). Because of the trance-like soundtrack, it is also known as an exorcism dance. 
The colors reminded me of the boldness of India yet the people were the gracefulness and friendliness of Thailand. The topography was amazingly vast. It took me quite a while to realize why I could not understand anything anyone was saying though. By the end of the first day, my driver explained that I look Balinese, and therefore, everyone automatically spoke to me in the local language. Another affirmation that I am anything but Vietnamese.
Was this the driver that stalked you? That explains a lot! :D
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