In Reply to: Thank you all posted by tess on Sunday, 17. June 2012 at 19:16 Bali Time:
Now three years at it seriously, my belief is that Basa Mider is the best approach. The Lower people appreciate being addressed in the 'Language of Courtesy' and the Brahmanas are pleased to be spoken to in polite form with a quick apology for not having the Upper Caste language which has about 12 versions, depending upon the particular person's standing.
On the ground training is the best way to go and I'm looking forward to August, 10 days only between knee ops.
There is, or was, a small green dictionary published by a Fr.Shadeg D.V.D. (Society of the Divine Word), Tuka, Dalung, now unfortunately passed away.( Ask for Rumah Pastor Paroki ) The book is about the size of a Readers Digest and has five columns; English, Indonesian and then 3 columns of the three main castes of Basa Bali.If not available in book-shops reprinted, you might get one at Tuka Parish Rectory, which is worth a visit anyhow for its historical artefacts much coveted by Govt' museums.
Good luck to all students, remember it's not impossible and all Balinese are happy to help and complimented that you have taken the trouble, however little you may have learned.
Komang Peter