After doing some hurried banking stuff (its public holiday Thurs and fri) I had a ride to the art market multi storey building and round the beachfront to the main beach road gate.
It was early, but already people were in the area supporting either the traders in the building or the more traditional ones on the other side.
This whole area including the path leading north should be commended for its orderly and clean presentation.
Lunch was taken at the Italian restaurant in Gang Rona very close to Kuta Townhouses.
This place never draws the crowds that Santorini does, just along the lane, but I found the food excellent and service to match.
Well worth a look.
Later in the afternoon, I had the task of scoping out some accommodation for friends.
I am not keen on this as peoples tastes and requirements can differ so much.
Anyway.....I think Kuta Pure in Poppies One came out the winner due to budget ($90 night) and the different choices of room types available.
Proximity to the beach is a given.
In looking in Padma Street at (I think) Padma Suites or resort??) I waited over the road at a hotel bar with many screens and Aussies sitting close to the area in front where a grill was set up.
I had to wait a couple of minutes so walked over and bought a beer.
48k and the pleasure of listening to conversations three times louder than they need to be.
These areas are certainly not for me these days.
Back to the relative peace of central Kuta before heading to Gg Mataram and "the wok guy".
A beer in Rooster bar while waiting and then takeaway Mie goreng for home.
He now has a more permanent place just along from Rooster on the opposite side.
The walk this morning was as usual...... tide half out, clean firm sand and perfect clear and still weather.
Many people, locals and tourists already about and surfers already walking the waves.
The permanent cafes now set along the beach path north of Melasti are lit up with colourful lights and set up already at 6.15am.
I have been advised there was an earthquake at around 6ish, which I wouldn't have felt walking on the beach.
Rupe around 10,240 and weather partly cloudy with light southerly breezes.