Bali's Magic: A Sustainable Journey Through Time, Culture, & Nature

Vermont Academy

March 9-22, 2025

Priority Deadline: November 15, 2024

Register for the Vermont Academy Bali Trip

GOGI Abroad is delighted to offer an engaging journey to the magical island of Bali in the summer. In Bali, students will learn about the culture with hands-on learning about Tri Hita Karana, which means “the Three Causes of Wellbeing”. It refers to our three key relationships - with the divine, with our fellow humans, and with the natural world.

Harmony with God (Parahyangan): This aspect emphasizes the importance of a direct relationship between Man and the Sacred. It acknowledges the spiritual dimension of life and the interconnectedness between humans and the divine, and explores various means of worship; via devotion, selfless work, knowledge, self-control and meditation.

Harmony with People (Pawongan): This aspect focuses on fostering harmony and cooperation within society. It highlights the significance of relationships with others, including family, community members, and broader social networks. Balinese culture places great emphasis on mutual respect, cooperation, and solidarity among individuals.

Harmony with Nature (Palemahan): This aspect emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with the natural environment. It underscores the interconnectedness between humans and nature and advocates for sustainable living practices. Balinese rituals are embedded in the natural world, and this respect for ecological balance and the environment continues to inform daily life.

By nurturing these connections, we not only foster personal wellbeing but also contribute to ethical behavior, social harmony, and environmental sustainability, gaining a holistic and interdisciplinary understanding of Bali's cultural, religious, and environmental landscape while fostering a deeper appreciation for the intricate connections between humanity, spirituality, and the natural world.

We base ourselves in rural Bali, directly encountering Tri Hita Karana as a living practice to illuminate our core objectives by exploring power dynamics, unity in diversity, progress, and ethical action. Students will be encouraged to analyze Bali's religious evolution, societal structures, and cultural dynamics, examining the intersections of colonization, religious systems, class, gender, and art, and tracing the impact of nature, climate change and biology upon the island’s evolution. Embracing Tri Hita Karana’s adaptability to "desa, kala, patra" (place, time, circumstance), our approach fosters curiosity, collaboration, and multiple perspectives. There will be ample opportunity for introspection and cross-cultural collaboration, including joint art and nature projects with Balinese youth. Through this immersive experience, students engage deeply with Bali's unique ambience, fostering understanding, empathy, and global citizenship.

LOCATION OF GAIA OASIS: Tejakula is an old Apanaga village located in the northern part of Bali, Indonesia. Apanaga villages trace back to the 11th century Balinese Kings, and even today, the heads of Tejakula’s Traditional Council rule by descent.

Tejakula is situated in the regency of Buleleng, known as “Segara Gunung” (Sea and Mountain) where the old mountain villages sweep down to meet the bronze age harbors and coastal plains. The village boasts mountain and forest landscapes, volcanic black sand beaches and traditional farming and fishing communities.Tejakula offers students a quiet and more authentic Balinese experience compared to the bustling tourist areas in the south.

In addition to its natural beauty, Tejakula is home to cultural attractions and spiritual sites. Students will visit important temple sites such as the 5000 year old Pura Ponjok Batu, known for its holy springs which bubble up from under the sea. The village also hosts traditional ceremonies and festivals throughout the year, providing insight into Balinese culture and spirituality.

Welcome to Gaia Oasis: A Haven for Students : Gaia-Oasis Foundation offers a unique blend of serenity and community engagement. The foundation runs an extensive social and community program, with local and international partners including the Red Cross, Reef Check Indonesia and One Tree Planted (OTP). The Foundation operates directly under the Head of Tejakula’s

Traditional Council, and the Board of Trustees are drawn from Europe, Asia and Australia. Nestled between a vibrant hamlet and a protected forest, the Foundation’s “Abasan'' property provides a soundscape of nature interwoven with local music and village life. Here, amidst 4 hectares of lush grounds, students can experience a harmonious balance of relaxation and exploration. At Gaia Oasis, students are invited to experience a home away from home, where tranquility meets adventure. It is a place where students can Indulge in moments of deep relaxation, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. We are a bus ride away from the ocean.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Gaia Oasis comprises Balinese-style bungalows and guest rooms, with expansive garden views. The larger homes have comfortable rooms for 2- 4 students and open-air bathrooms, ensuring comfort and tranquility. We will finish our program with homestays.

HOMESTAY: At the homestay, we work with Dr. Wayan Pasek Ariati, PhD, who has been guiding and leading groups in Bali and her village for over 30 years. The village, where students will stay, is Banjar Dinas Munduk Pakel, located northwest of Ubud. The village features family homes on both the west and east sides, with each compound consisting of two to four families sharing a common family temple.The village comprises approximately 88 family heads, contributing to a population of around 400 people, though not all reside there full-time. While each family has a toilet and shower, students have historically enjoyed bathing in the river as well. Accommodations are simple, offering basic amenities such as lighting, a bed, a table, a cupboard (not always available), a fan, a towel, and a blanket.

The village is home to five public temples, serviced by 11 priests and priestesses, and hosts various cultural groups, including a Gamelan group (Sekaa Gong), Joged Bumbung dance group, a Youth Organization, PKK (Women’s Organization), and Lansia (Older People’s Organization). For education, there is one elementary school (SD), and health services are provided by a local health center, with a hospital about 30 minutes away in Tabanan City. The village has running water, electricity, and communal Wi-Fi, with additional Wi-Fi installed at the Joglo house.

We might be able to experience a ceremony in the village if one is available. This serves as an opportunity for cultural exchange and understanding, as students witness firsthand the depth of devotion and reverence with which the Balinese people approach their religious traditions. Through their participation in a ceremony, students gain insight into the rich tapestry of Balinese history and religion, while embarking on a journey of self-discovery, forging meaningful connections with the local community and deepening their appreciation for the cultural heritage of Bali.

FOOD: The dining terrace, shaded by trees and bamboo, overlooks a verdant valley and offers a variety of vegetarian dishes influenced by Indonesian and Western cuisines. Special dietary requirements are catered to with care, and students and teachers can enjoy mineral water, herbal teas, and Balinese coffee throughout the day.

ACTIVITIES: At Gaia there is an inviting large saltwater pool, set against panoramic views, suitable for swimming (with an adult present). We also have areas to exercise, relax, or just sunbathe on its stone terrace. There is a network of walking trails that allows for exploration of the estate and surrounding landscapes, from orchards to jungle gorges. Meditation and mindfulness sessions take place in the Mountain Lotus Shala. Additionally, the Forest Shala provides a tranquil setting for yoga practice, with sea glimpses and the soothing sounds of nature. We can offer some yoga and meditation if VA would like this.

Abasan's commitment to sustainability is evident in its water management, organic gardens, and energy-saving initiatives. Students are welcome to contribute to the foundation's ongoing journey towards greater harmony and sustainability.

Different topics we can touch on:

World History:

Guided tours of historical sites: Bali’s villages are living historical sites, with traditions and practices from the Neolithic to the post-colonial period. There will be opportunities to visit old “banua” villages, to experience ancient sites like Ponjok Batu sea temple with its megalithic stones and sarcophagus and 11th century “Kingdom Period” temples like Gunung Kawi, and/ or to take in colonial period palaces.
Museums and cultural landmarks: The island is home to museums like the Batur Geopark Museum, the Pejeng Antiquities Museum, the Karangasem Lontar Museum and the Setia Darma house of Masks and Puppets, showcasing the natural history and religion-artistic evolution of Bali.
Lectures and workshops: Local scholars and village elders can offer insights into the history and evolution of Balinese civilization, from its early kingdoms to its modern cultural identity.

Sacred Sites:

Visits to sacred sites and temples: Bali’s religious practices have evolved to include pantheism, ancestor worship, Siva-Budha syncretic practices, Waisnawa ‘holy water’ rituals, to a modern form of
“Balinese Hinduism”, providing a unique opportunity for students to explore the development of Bali’s religious practices in its cultural context.
Interactions with local religious leaders: Students can engage with Balinese Hindu priests, Village Elders and practitioners to understand the rituals, beliefs, and values of the Balinese Hindu community.
Comparative studies: Bali's religious landscape also includes mosques, churches, and Buddhist temples, allowing for comparative studies on various world religions within the island's multicultural society.
Sustainability, Conservation Plus Flora and Fauna:
Field trips to diverse ecosystems: Bali's natural beauty encompasses diverse ecosystems, from lush rice terraces to dense jungles and coral reefs. Students can explore places like the Besikalung Wildlife Sanctuary and the Jatiluwih UNESCO heritage listed rice fields, to study different habitats and biodiversity.
Workshops on local flora and fauna: Expert-led workshops can focus on Bali's unique plant and animal species, including their ritual footprints. Topics may include endemic species, conservation challenges, and sustainable practices.
Practical activities: Students can participate in wildlife observation, snorkeling excursions to study marine ecosystems, and rice field treks to explore traditional water cycles

By nurturing these connections, we not only foster personal wellbeing but also contribute to ethical behavior, social harmony, and environmental sustainability, gaining a holistic and interdisciplinary understanding of Bali's cultural, religious, and environmental landscape while fostering a deeper appreciation for the intricate connections between humanity, spirituality, and the natural world.

We base ourselves in rural Bali, directly encountering Tri Hita Karana as a living practice to illuminate our core objectives by exploring power dynamics, unity in diversity, progress, and ethical action. Students will be encouraged to analyze Bali's religious evolution, societal structures, and cultural dynamics, examining the intersections of colonization, religious systems, class, gender, and art, and tracing the impact of nature, climate change and biology upon the island’s evolution. Embracing Tri Hita Karana’s adaptability to "desa, kala, patra" (place, time, circumstance), our approach fosters curiosity, collaboration, and multiple perspectives. There will be ample opportunity for introspection and cross-cultural collaboration, including joint art and nature projects with Balinese youth. Through this immersive experience, students engage deeply with Bali's unique ambience, fostering understanding, empathy, and global citizenship.

LOCATION

Tejakula is an old Apanaga village located in the northern part of Bali, Indonesia. Apanaga villages trace back to the 11th century Balinese Kings, and even today, the heads of Tejakula’s Traditional Council rule by descent.

Tejakula is situated in the regency of Buleleng, known as “Segara Gunung” (Sea and Mountain) where the old mountain villages sweep down to meet the bronze age harbors and coastal plains. The village boasts mountain and forest landscapes, volcanic black sand beaches and traditional farming and fishing communities.Tejakula offers students a quiet and more authentic Balinese experience compared to the bustling tourist areas in the south.

In addition to its natural beauty, Tejakula is home to cultural attractions and spiritual sites. Students will visit important temple sites such as the 5000 year old Pura Ponjok Batu, known for its holy springs which bubble up from under the sea. The village also hosts traditional ceremonies and festivals throughout the year, providing insight into Balinese culture and spirituality.

Gaia Oasis: A Haven for Students

Gaia-Oasis Foundation offers a unique blend of serenity and community engagement. The foundation runs an extensive social and community program, with local and international partners including the Red Cross, Reef Check Indonesia and One Tree Planted (OTP). The Foundation operates directly under the Head of Tejakula’s Traditional Council, and the Board of Trustees are drawn from Europe, Asia and Australia. Nestled between a vibrant hamlet and a protected forest, the Foundation’s “Abasan'' property provides a soundscape of nature interwoven with local music and village life. Here, amidst 4 hectares of lush grounds, students can experience a harmonious balance of relaxation and exploration. At Gaia Oasis, students are invited to experience a home away from home, where tranquility meets adventure. It is a place where students can Indulge in moments of deep relaxation, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. We are a bus ride away from the ocean.

ACCOMMODATION
Gaia Oasis comprises Balinese-style bungalows and guest rooms, with expansive garden views. The larger homes have comfortable rooms to sleep 2- 4 students and open-air bathrooms, ensuring comfort and tranquility.

FOOD
The dining terrace, shaded by trees and bamboo, overlooks a verdant valley and offers a variety of vegetarian dishes influenced by Indonesian and Western cuisines. Special dietary requirements are catered to with care, and students and teachers can enjoy mineral water, herbal teas, and Balinese coffee throughout the day.

ACTIVITES
There is an inviting large saltwater pool, set against panoramic views, suitable for swimming (with an adult present). We also have areas to exercise, relax, or just sunbathe on its stone terrace. There is a network of walking trails that allows for exploration of the estate and surrounding landscapes, from orchards to jungle gorges. Meditation and mindfulness sessions take place in the Mountain

Lotus Shala. Additionally, the Forest Shala provides a tranquil setting for yoga practice, with sea glimpses and the soothing sounds of nature. We can offer some yoga and meditation if VA would like this.

Abasan's commitment to sustainability is evident in its water management, organic gardens, and energy-saving initiatives. Students are welcome to contribute to the foundation's ongoing journey towards greater harmony and sustainability.

Different topics we can touch on include:

World History:

Guided tours of historical sites: Bali’s villages are living historical sites, with traditions and practices from the Neolithic to the post-colonial period. There will be opportunities to visit old “banua” villages, to experience ancient sites like Ponjok Batu sea temple with its megalithic stones and sarcophagus and 11th century “Kingdom Period” temples like Gunung Kawi, and/ or to take in colonial period palaces.
Museums and cultural landmarks: The island is home to museums like the Batur Geopark Museum, the Pejeng Antiquities Museum, the Karangasem Lontar Museum and the Setia Darma house of Masks and Puppets, showcasing the natural history and religion-artistic evolution of Bali.
Lectures and workshops: Local scholars and village elders can offer insights into the history and evolution of Balinese civilization, from its early kingdoms to its modern cultural identity.
Sacred Sites:
Visits to sacred sites and temples: Bali’s religious practices have evolved to include pantheism, ancestor worship, Siva-Budha syncretic practices, Waisnawa ‘holy water’ rituals, to a modern form of “Balinese Hinduism”, providing a unique opportunity for students to explore the development of Bali’s religious practices in its cultural context.
Interactions with local religious leaders: Students can engage with Balinese Hindu priests, Village Elders and practitioners to understand the rituals, beliefs, and values of the Balinese Hindu community.
Comparative studies: Bali's religious landscape also includes mosques, churches, and Buddhist temples, allowing for comparative studies on various world religions within the island's multicultural society.
Sustainability Plus Flora and Fauna:
Field trips to diverse ecosystems: Bali's natural beauty encompasses diverse ecosystems, from lush rice terraces to dense jungles and coral reefs. Students can explore places like the Besikalung Wildlife Sanctuary and the Jatiluwih UNESCO heritage listed rice fields, to study different habitats and biodiversity.
Workshops on local flora and fauna: Expert-led workshops can focus on Bali's unique plant and animal species, including their ritual footprints. Topics may include endemic species, conservation challenges, and sustainable practices.
Practical activities: Students can participate in wildlife observation, snorkeling excursions to study marine ecosystems, and ricefield treks to explore traditional water cycles.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

*The itinerary is subject to changes depending on group needs, weather, and the group´s well-being*

Day 1 - Depart USA

Day 2 - Travel

Day 3- Arrival
Accommodation: Hotel in Ubud

GOGI Abroad guides will pick up students at the airport and travel to Ubud to the hotel to rejuvenate from the journey.
Activity PM: Enjoy an early dinner and a small introduction to the culture.

Day 4: Travel to Tejakula and have an orientation to Gaia Oasis.
Accommodation: Gaia Oasis 1st night
Activity AM: Starting our morning with movement and mindfulness. Wake up our bodies and help them get ready for our days of learning, adventure, and travel up North. When we arrive at Gaia we start with an introduction to Balinese prayer and “God”, laying the foundation for understanding Bali and the people’s connection to nature and the divine. Students will craft and create as they make offerings and learn some of the actual activities Balinese people do every day for rituals and worship.

Activity PM: Discovering Abasan. Introduction to the Foundation and its roots in Tri Hita Karana and Balinese culture. We will end the afternoon with a hike through the surrounding community forest to meet the locals and plant some trees.

Day 5: “Melasti”: Crafting Connections Through Ritual and Traditional Dance and Diving into the History

Accommodation: Gaia Oasis 2nd night

Activity AM: “Melasti,” purification of nature and artifacts. Students will spend the morning participating in an important village purification ritual, in preparation for the New Year in March. Join in as the Balinese honor their Gods and ancestors; learn about the clan system and experience the ‘unseen’ worlds as the Balinese know them. We shall be welcomed to Tejakula temple and meet the Head of the Traditional Council and other highly respected leaders. There, we shall learn more about the history of the village and how north Bali differs from other areas of the Island.

Activity PM: After being introduced to the Gods and learning about the history of Tejakula, we shall be welcomed into another incredibly important piece of Balinese culture, dance! Learn the art of traditional dance from one of Bali’s most prolific dance artists. If dance is not where your heart lies you can also join in to learn about Gamelon, traditional music played by striking mallets on metal to create a truly unique sound and musical style. Students can also swim in the pool and relax before dinner.

Day 6: Snorkeling, Waterfalls, and Salt Farms!

Accommodation: Gaia Oasis 3rd night

Activity AM: Start the day with snorkeling along Tejakula’s coast and see its beautiful protected reef. As part of the coral restoration program, Tejakula’s fishermen work hard to monitor the protected area. After seeing their results, our group will next visit LINI where we will learn more about Bali’s marine life and local efforts to restore and preserve coral and build livelihood through sustainable aquarium fish farming.

Activity PM: A picnic lunch at one of northern Bali’s hidden gems? Yes, please! After a short walk, Les waterfall is a sight you will not soon forget. While there you’ll begin to make connections and observations about the surrounding wildlife. While all of Bali has its beauty you’ll notice some of the differences between the forest around Les and Abasan. Finally, end the afternoon learning about the ancient process of salt farming! Visit actual salt farms and learn how the practice has changed over time and how it still continues to support the community.

Day 7: Dolphins at sunrise and “Ogoh-Ogoh” Parade

Accommodation: Gaia Oasis 4th night

Activity AM: An important part of Bali marine life is a fan favorite. We’ll start the morning with a sunrise dolphin tour! What better way to start the day than a beautiful sunrise, stunning ocean views, and dolphins?

Activity PM: In the afternoon we shall continue final preparations for the “Great Exorcism”, which falls on the night before the Balinese New Year. The Great Exorcism is marked by ceremonies and ritual sacrifices, and a nighttime parade. The purpose is to drive away evil spirits, enticing them to enter great papier-mache monsters “Ogoh-Ogoh” which are then burned, so that the island can start the New Year the next day, cleansed and pure.

Day 8: Hiking Kintamani

Accommodation: Gaia Oasis 5th night

Morning Activity: We begin our day early, traveling to Kintamani to hike Mount Batur, an active volcano with its last eruption in 2000. The volcano features a collapsed top with a caldera lake, and a 700-meter stratovolcano rises above the water. According to Balinese legend, Lake Batur is home to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, who blesses the island with fertility. The Batur Caldera was designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2012.

At the summit, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views and explore the caldera, including steam vents and the black lava field from the 1968 eruption. We’ll descend via Pasar Agung, a temple for traders, before enjoying lunch and a soothing soak in community-run natural hot springs to relax our muscles.

Afternoon Activity: After a refreshing break, we’ll visit Batur’s UNESCO Geopark Museum to learn about Bali’s geological and cultural history, guided by the museum curator as we explore the exhibits. From there, we’ll continue our journey back to Gaia.

Day 9: An Opportunity to fully Embrace Authentic Culture and Farewell dinner at Gaia Oasis

Accommodation: Gaia Oasis 6th night

Activity AM: We begin the day by participating in a Balinese daily ritual, mirroring the local community’s practices. This ritual offers an introduction to the spiritual traditions of Bali.

Next, we visit an ancient sea temple, joining the local community in a water cleansing ceremony. Water, symbolizing purity and renewal, is central to Balinese spirituality. This simple yet moving ceremony invites participants to cleanse their inner and outer selves through the holy spring waters. This experience provides insight into the deep connection between ritual, spirituality, and nature in Balinese culture, highlighting the universal significance of water as a source of life and spiritual renewal.

Activity PM: We'll embark on a trek to a stunning waterfall, immersing ourselves in Bali's breathtaking natural beauty. As we conclude our stay at Gaia, we'll gather for a heartfelt farewell dinner, offering a special time for reflection and connection.

Day 10: Travel south west to a local village and experience living in a village. Exploring the Sacred Waters of Balinese Tradition/

Accommodation: Homestay in village-1st night

Activity AM: We will begin with a homestay and a traditional cultural experience. As we join the Balinese people in observing their customs, we will be immersed in an atmosphere of reverence and mindfulness. This experience will give us valuable insight into Balinese culture and its fascinating traditions.

We will arrive at the village, driving past rice fields, and head to the program center at Dr. Ari’s Javanese-style house. Upon arrival, we will be welcomed with refreshing coconut drinks, followed by lunch. The homestay mothers will then pick up the students, and we will all introduce ourselves. The families live close to one another, creating a close-knit community.

Activity PM: In the afternoon, we will come together for a guided tour of the town, where we will explore and learn about the unique architecture and traditional home structures. This will deepen our understanding of local culture and building techniques.

Afterward, we will have the option to participate in a fun session with a dance teacher, where we can try the Kecak Monkey Dance, a traditional Balinese performance involving rhythmic chanting and movement. This will take place at the program center and offers a great opportunity to immerse ourselves in Balinese performing arts.

For dinner, we will gather at the Joglo House to enjoy a communal meal in a traditional setting. Afterward, we will have the chance to play gamelan—a traditional ensemble of percussion instruments—alongside the talented Sekaa Gong Munduk Pakel group. This unique cultural experience will allow us to connect through music.

Day 11: Traditional Healing and Medicinal Plants

Accommodation: Homestay in village-2nd night

Activity AM: We will have an amazing opportunity for those feeling inspired—students who wish to rise early can join us before 6:00 AM to walk to the hill and witness the sunrise, with views of Mt. Agung, the Mt. Batukaru ranges, and the ocean in the distance. Afterward, we will have breakfast with our homestay families. Later, we will gather for a class to check in and share our experiences from the first evening and breakfast with the homestays.

We will then have a talk by Ari about the roles of traditional healers and the use of medicinal plants. Following Ari's teachings, we will explore the garden to collect useful plants for medicine, offerings, and cooking.

We will have a group lunch at the Joglo house.

Activity PM: We will engage in a hands-on activity, learning how to make coconut oil and coconut bowls. In the evening, we will enjoy a group dinner together. After dinner, we will learn and play a traditional game of Gamelan with the Sekaa Gong.

Day 12: Rice Farming and the Critically Endangered Bali Starling

Accommodation: Homestay in village-3rd night

Activity AM: If we get up before 6:00 AM, we will walk to the hill to see the sunrise, with views of Mt. Agung, the Mt. Batukaru ranges, and the ocean in the distance. Afterward, we will have breakfast with our homestay families and take time to check in on everyone’s well-being.

This morning, we will have a talk by Ari about Subak, the traditional Balinese irrigation system, followed by working in the rice fields (depending on the season), and then we will bathe in the river. We will have a group lunch at the Joglo house.

Activity PM: In the afternoon, we will have free time to walk around the village, play volleyball, teach English to the village children, or help clean up the village by collecting plastic. In the evening, we will have a group dinner at the Joglo house, where we will join the mothers in making Sate Lilit, a traditional Balinese dish. Students will also learn Joged Bumbung, a flirtatious dance, with the community members.

Day: 13 Ancient and Modern Bali

Accommodation: Homestay 4th night

Activity AM/PM: Get ready for a lazy river adventure! Weather permitting, we will meander down Babahan Crystal Water, a tubing tour along a small river stream called Subak Aya, which spans approximately 900 meters. You'll gain a unique perspective on Bali’s irrigation channels before enjoying breakfast.

Day 14: FLY HOME

Activity AM/PM: Final reflections and travel to the airport. All good things must end to make way for the next adventure.

TUITION: 3500 (USD Per Student)

Tuition includes:

All ground transportation in Bali, including pick up and drop off from the airport
All accommodations in Bali
Three daily meals including water, tea, and juice
Craft supplies and instruction on projects we do.
Guided tours of temples
Entry archaeological sites
Museum entrances
GOGI guides to help educate, translate and support
Gaia Oasis guide/Educator throughout the entire trip
Guest speakers and educational workshops

Tuition does not include:

Roundtrip airfare is estimated at around $1000- $1,800
Excess baggage charges (We do provide a packing list so this is unlikely to happen)
Food and drinks at the airport
Food and meals outside of the three daily meals provided
Personal expenses, such as gifts (around $200)
International Travel insurance (around $65-$100)

HOW TO SIGN UP

Questions? Feel free to Email us at: info@gogiabroad.com or call for more information at 802-275-2948