After 5 years and 2 days, we finally arrived back in Bali for our first holiday since moving back to Melbourne. This won't be a terribly interesting JBR, cos we really didn't do the 'tourist' things - had friends to catch up with.
Had been an interesting trip into the airport - used Eastside Bus Service - very prompt and trouble-free. On arriving at the airport, realised I'd left the pouch with the keys to all our suitcase locks at home - thank heavens for the spare set!
Flight was delayed - left through a makeshift lounge as Melbourne Airport is extending. Garuda flight was as good as usual, with the excellent service and food coming out of our ears!
Arrival in Bali was just as smooth. Short wait at immigration, bags out straight away and no need to open at customs.
Exchange rate had dropped around 500 rupiah to the dollar since we'd checked the day before. We went to our favourite money changer, Made Sudana, at PT Darma Santa Indonesia. They are just wonderful. They remembered me (of course). If you want a money changer in Sanur who will not rip you off, and who will come to you at your hotel if you wish, then call Made on 087861 051975. He also arranges accommodation, transport, and anything else you need!
Went straight to friend's house.
The next day I had my first experience of driving in Bali for five years. The traffic has increased enormously, but is still quite polite. I suppose by now I shouldn't be surprised that people I've known for many years would still remember me. What did surprise me was how little the rupiah buys. When I lived there, my weekly shopping bills (not including fresh fruit and veg) was around Rp250,000. So I took Rp200,000 to one of my favourite restaurants, Donald's in Sanur, and realised that I wouldn't have enough for the four kids and myself to eat and drink!! That was embarrassing! Donald's staff changed some money for me, at a very reasonable exchange rate, and I got out of that one!
Then to Jazz Bar and Grill where my old friends Hendrik and Darwin were playing. Apart from a few new grey hairs, still the same madmen!
Day 3 we went to Denpasar to find my favourite supermarket. Drove around the block before realising that it was no longer there! So went to Tiara Dewata instead.
Most of our days were spent talking and catching up with old friends. We are travelling onto Pontianak and Jakarta before returning to Bali for a well-earned break at the end of our trip.
Day 4 and two of the kids aren't well. Of course, we are due to leave at 4am the next day for our flight to Pontianak.
Day 5 and we arrive at the airport at 4.50am. Flew Batavia Air to Jakarta then to Pontianak.