I have been going to Tulumben diving or snorkeling since the late 80's and still enjoy it. It is a long drive, though very scenic. The black volcanic seabed enhances the colours of the marine life. Usually I go with a driver and family or friends, this trip rather than an expensive driver for one I took a forumite's tip and went with a dive company even though I just wanted to snorkel. All equipment supplied and lunch included for approx $36 US. Hand feeding large fish is quite a buzz and there is a huge school of hundreds of Trevalley that swirled around me - As the water was very clear in the morning I was disappointed with the photo quality when I had them printed later but my diving brother explained about the amount of fish poo being generated! The after lunch dive was not great as the swell had increased but I had had a good look round the wreck and an enjoyable time. Getting in can be difficult if there is a wave as the beach is all smooth rocks, dive booties are very helpful.This area seems to be quite poor and secondhand clothing has been excitedly received here in the past.
I was hoping to do the Bamboo Shoots cooking class and had made some tentative enquiries but for the first time had a dose of Bali belly, while a prior meal was probably the culprit I can't be sure and wouldn't want to damage a restaurant's reputation with a 'maybe'.
Medicate asap is my advice.
Recovered in time to do the Baik Bali ride. This was my 5th time and as good as ever. I did miss having my son to give me a push up the couple of hills though and couldn't find the gel seat to take which does make a difference to the comfort. Each time I have gone there has been something different to see - threshing rice with some old ladies once, a cremation factory, a school (just asking the kids their names and how they were in Indo caused a lot of fun), a family compound where ladies were weaving baskets and once a fabric weaving factory. The usuals also - the coffee plantation for tastings of teas, coffees, fruit and the most delicious orange chocolate. Even some tobacco to try if so inclined. The breaky with the most speccy view and of course the riding and the delicious lunch at Wayan's family compound where he gives a great talk about Balinese family setups. I book by email - either before I leave or from Bali. One tip that might be important if you have irritable when hungry people with you - yes, they will get breakfast,however it might be a couple of hours from pick up, a light breaky or snack can make the day more enjoyable for all participants! Several times I have encounted young men not coping with the delay in feeding.I mentioned to Wayan to maybe add this thought to his info.
On Kuningan day I went to a nearby temple in my sarong and sash and got a blessing, my Balinese friend suggested I make a wish and it was a gentle and lovely experience.
One morning there was a huge group of boys with large kites in a vacant bit of land, so colourful and fun, (I missed the Kite Festival by a few days). The next day the earthmovers were there as more accomodation goes up. I was surprised how much building had taken place at Sanur in one year. I looked over the new one next door to Hardy's - Royal Oasis - it's not quite finished but is open and there are some half price deals. I did like the room opening onto a deck then the pool to slip into 24/7 but it's a bit above my budget.
I had a lovely get together with some of my local friends at my hotel one night. It celebrated a 3year old's birthday, a starting kindy for another, and the first day of Senior High for our teenage friend Dewi.
When I went to pay her fees (on behalf of my kids) I was surprised at the size of the school, it focuses on Tourism and offers subjects such as housekeeping and accomodation and beauty treatments. Hundreds of friendly kids greeted me as I found my way.
I could understand just enough Indo to know the finance person was asking Dewi how she knew me and her answer that she met my kids while walking down a lane caused a big smile. Dewi's mum was in tears at the fact that her daughter was going to go to such a good school and that she had passed the entrance exam. So lots of celebrating, but one of the dads said no to the Bintang, based on last years headache from one bottle!
Another day I invited some guys who I've affectionately called my gardening boys for a couple of years for a meal. We met as I cut through the hotel where they would be raking sand early in the mornings and practiced language on each other. This year they have both had promotions and it was lovely to meet their wives and the baby of one couple. Not a lot of English between them and my Indo is only good up to a point so the Kamus (dictionary) got a hammering and a lot of gestures and so on. I caused some amusement when I accidently ordered a meal "tidak anjing" (no dog) instead of tidak daging (no meat). Also my estimating of the size of the guys was a little out and no way could they fit the pants I'd brought for them. Lots of photos of the couples and baby - for me as well as keepsakes for them. Someone told me about 20 years ago that a photo of a family or child was a nice gift and I've experienced the pleasure of taking and giving them many times to people who did not have any family photos at all. With mobile phones with cameras so prevalent now, maybe it wont be such a hit soon but as enlarged pics are so cheap in Bali I recommend them if you want to thank someone.
Some of the restaurants not mentioned that I enjoyed were - Bonsai for various Indo and western dishes and Kami Sama on the beachfront(lovely staff) and Pregina on Tamblingan for great Balinese food. Love the stuffed tofu entree at Pregina. Caramel, a new find and lovely.
Sunday mornings in Sanur there is a market outside Batu Jumbar restaurant (opp Hardys) with South American food, and lots of other bits and pieces. There is also Salsa dancing here a couple of nights a week to watch or the teachers will partner you if you wish.
The last day was a round of farewells, shopping and collecting tailoring. My 'gardener boys' came to say goodbye and it was a few minutes before I realized that they were wearing some shirts I'd given them.
It was a flashback to 1989 and my first Bali visit. I knew clothes were cheap and had taken a case inside an empty case so I had missed a chance to take clothing to give away. However I bought new things for my little sons and we gave a street kid named Nyoman we had befriended (when he warned us some kids were about to nick my kids bumbags) their old clothes and shoes. On the day we left as we drove out of the hotel Nyoman was at the gate to wave us off - dressed head to toe in the boy's old clothes and with a beautiful smile.
Another wonderful holiday of outings, friendships,supporting, eating, relaxing and shopping ends, the plans quickly start again, as my wise friend Malini farewelled me "not goodbye.....to be continued"
Happy and safe travels
Jan