March 23rd - Bali, Indonesia

Because our scheduled visit to Bali was delayed, there was not an open berth
for the ship, so we had to make a very long tender into port. Made it off
the ship on the first tender, but could not get off for over half an hour
because the ramp the Bali port had set up was not even close to being safe.
Our wonderful crew figured out a solution and moved it themselves and we
finally got off the tender.

First stop after meeting up with Dean and Webee was to a local Batik and
weaving establishment. It was fascinating to watch these very talented
people work.

Next stop was to a wood carving place. The items here were stunning. I fell
in love with an amazing 10-12 foot long table that was made from a solid
piece of antique wood. They had even carved intricate designs in the top
that one could see through the glass top. It was only $25,000 US (not
including shipping). Such beautiful craftsmanship.

Had an early light lunch at Kayu Restaurant, specializing in organic and
natural food. All of the vegetables are from their own garden and they had
a traditional outdoor Bali kitchen. Here I had some dragon fruit juice with
a bamboo straw (did not cause dragon's breath).

The volcanic cone of Gunung Batur and the lake it created, made for a
dramatic change and stark contrast in the lush landscape seen elsewhere in
Bali. The people who live here dig, haul and grind lava rock into sand with
no machinery. It did not look like an easy life.

Last stop was to Ubud to view the Ubud Palace. Otherwise, the once, quaint
artist community was now a very touristy place jammed with shops and people.


During the day we observed many police preparing for the arrival of the
President of Indonesia, people were starting to line the streets so they
could view and wave as he passed by.

Another long day, looking forward to a sea day tomorrow.