Bali Legislator Lauds Obama Vacation

Denpasar, Bali, (Antara Jatim)- Deputy Chairman of the Commission II of Bali's Legislative Council (DPRD) Tjokorda Gede Asmara Putra Sukawati has lauded a vacation by former US president Barack Obama and his family in Bali.

"We laud the arrival of Obama for vacation in Bali," Cok Asmara Putra said here, Tuesday.

The visit of Obama would give a significant impact on Bali tourism, he said.

"Moreover Barack Obama has chosen Four Seasons Resort at Sayan, Ubud, for their accommodation. Ubud has a lot of interesting places to offer," he said.

Local inhabitants of Ubud still follow traditions and culture of Hinduism. They are very religious and open to visitors. Ubud's rural natural environment is well preserved.

He believed Obama's vacation is a free tourism promotion for Bali and would be able to help attract more foreigners to visit the island.

On Monday, Obama enjoyed rafting down the Ayung River, which is a popular tourist spot in Bali.

Barack and Michelle Obama, along with their daughters Sasha and Malia, arrived at Banjar Dinas Karang Dalem I, Bongkasa Pertiwi Village, Abiansemal Sub-district, Badung District, at 11 a.m. local time.

The location is a starting point for the rafting expedition.

Several police and military officers secured the site.

Obama was spotted wearing a white T-shirt, sunglasses, a red velvet jacket, and a yellow helmet.

On the occasion, Michelle and her daughters were spotted paddling down the Ayung River. The rafting ended at the rear side of the Four Seasons Hotel.

They had earlier visited the Agung Rai Museum of Arts in Ubud and the Jatiluwih rice fields.

The family took a walk through the lush green Jatiluwih rice terrace, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site.

Obama and his family are spending their holidays in Ubud, Gianyar District, on June 23-28.(*)