Well it's noon here, and I leave for the Airport in 5 hours to catch the redeye to Perth, Australia. I realized this would be a great time to figure out where I intend to stay once I land in that next country at Midnight.
It has been beautiful, fun, and relaxing here in Bali - I hope to return with friends another time. I thought I should mention some of "funny" things here:
*On the ferry between Bali and Lombok, the bathroom had a Indonesian toilet which is basically a porcelain hole in the ground was made by the company American Standard. Something funny about being in a very non-American restroom and seeing the hole in the ground branded "American Standard".
*Driving the scooter has been an adventure in itself. Imagine the density of traffic on New York streets, 90% scooters and dramatically efficient use of the roadway. That means no braking distance, vehicles going both ways in both lanes and did I mention no yielding or stop lights of any sorts and intersections? Craziness...pure craziness.
*The bathroom is the shower
*Toilet paper is a thing you bring with you
*Everyone seems to listen to American music and watch American Movies - and that is interesting way to judge America by
*I've met ~30 Swedes in 3 weeks and 0 Texans, and there are more than twice as many people in Texas as Sweden
Well checking out of Bali in about 8 hours, I this message finds you all well back home.
PS Pictures coming soon....
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
Monday, February 14, 2005
Catching up from Ubud
Well here's to gettin' around. Definitely having a blast and nearly wishing I didn't have to leave "so" soon. I have really had the relative length of stays distorted at this point. Over three weeks feels almost quick.
Here's to catching up again.
Started out 5? days ago from Kuta, Bali. Karstein, Annetta,(The Norwegians as they are affectionately know) and I took off on motor bikes to Padangbai to catch the Ferry to Lombok (Next Indonesian island East of Bali). The drive was beautiful again with rice fields, palm trees, ocean, and locals not displaced by tourists. Arrived at Padangbai to enjoy my first taste of unabashed extrusion from a cop there when trying to buy my ferry ticket. With in a few minutes a bargain of 25,000 rupiah was agreed on for him to "let" us go to Lombok where our licenses were not valid. Mind you, that we were not doing anything wrong in Bali, where he was a cop. Took a 5 and 1/2 hour ferry ride to Lombok which was a cultural experience in it's own right. The 2 Swedes on the ferry and ourselves comprised the 5 Westerners out of ~300 passengers. We arrived at lumbar only to wait for the ferry that was docked to move (a process that took nearly an hour). I note this only because it should not have been a surprise that we were on the way. Hopped on the bikes and took off a full speed to evade the extorting cops and made it out of the harbor only to question which way we were going. It was nearing sunset (side note: there is no twilight here, sunset to dark in ~15 minutes) so we sped up the coast as fast as possible and pulled into sensuous, a nice little resort town. Here we checked into an expensive western hotel (135,000/night). We partook in hot water, bathtubs, and air conditioning. (queue the heavenly chorus) I slept like a retiree on a Sunday afternoon after lunch.
About 12 hours later I awoke from my comma, and joined the Norwegians for breakfast and a swim. We then decided that bangle (the public harbor serving traffic to the Giles) would not be a great place to leave our rented scooters unattended for days. So we charted a private boat to Gili Trawangan. We were to be whisked away by car and driver, taken to a harbor to catch our vessel for the 1:45 ride to the Giles. Instead, we walked with a guy to the harbor, waded through the surf to jump on a large dugout outrigger (maybe 20 feet long), driven by a 15 year old for the 3 hour ride to the Giles. Nonetheless it was fantastic. Beautiful views the whole way, and a bit exciting to be in a tiny and authentic boat in the open ocean. Arrived at the Gili's via a beach landing and walked to the Lonely Planet pick for rooms, which proved perfect. Got a room for 25,000/night (less than USD$3/night) which was in the village. Clean and had a private bathroom, working fan, and mosquito netting over the bed. (Funny the things you appreciate when living in places for 3 bucks a night) Funny thing about the Gilis is that there is basically no fresh water, that's right salt water showers, and salt water tooth brushings. And the locals couldn't love it more. (I commited the ultimate western sin and rinsed after a shower with bottled water as well as choosing the tastier but more expensive option for tooth brushing). Went and had a great dinner in a Bruga (Cabana style thing, you sit on the raised floor under a thatched roof) overlooking the crystal clear indian ocean. After dinner I was off for a drink and ran into brits from Kuta who insist I look them up when in the UK - gotta love the commoradery of travelers. Lastly to bed after seeing the sunset, milkly way, and a field of lights on the horizon which I learned were fishing boats. (Apprently you need a lot of fish to feed Indonesia)
Breakfast in the morning and then got some clothes washed. Waiting for them to dry I finished Bobo's in Paradise and read an Economist cover to cover. (things don't dry fast in this humidity, despite being 150 degrees out) Discovered my love for laying in a hammock in the south pacific reading about business from around the world. Also discovered a new distinction in clothing, most T-Shirts are too thick to be warn in the Gili's as they insulate to much - resorted to very light button ups. Went for a swim, talked to some folks, ate dinner, and crashed around 9. This is the good life.
Woke up to the mosque next door at 5 but went back to sleep. The heat got me out of bed by 9:30 and I went on to breakfast. (Another note: even toast takes over an hour to prepare on the Gili's) Followed up with a snorkeling trip on a guide boat. The water is like the carribean; I saw beautifull fish of a thousand varieties off Gili Trawangan, sea turtles off Gili Meno, and Giant Clams off Gili Air. Later I enjoyed a slow lunch on Gili Air, have I mentioned food is VERY slow in the Gili's. This is a good thing though as it puts you in the right frame of mind for how fast your days should be. (Trey's Law: The average heat of an enviroment is inversly proportional to the punctionality of it's people and their stress level.) Got back to Gili Trawangan for a walk around the island, then had diner and crashed at 9 again.
Woke up after trying to sleep in at 8. Went for a snorkle off the beach with the Norwegians and swam with 3 sea turtles! It was fantastic. And somehow 2 hours later I was still not sunburned (unlike my northern travel companions). Stopped for lunch and the rain set it. Left in a sprinkle 3 hours later and went back to read last few articles of the Economist. Then I joined the the Norwegians for dinner, drinks, and darts at a (no kidding) irish pub. Jesse, Julie, Craig and Tamara - wish you guys were here. I won at darts and then talked the Norwegians into bed around 11.
Woke up at 6 and rose the Norwegians so we could catch the 8 am boat back to Lombok. The "public" ferry in to Bangsal only goes once a full load of tickets are sold- but thankfully that only took an hour. Got to Bangsal to haggle for a cheap ride back to Singiggi where we picked up our scooters and sped for harbor at Lembar. Now anyone who has ever camped with my over-prepared, exceedingly overpacked self would appreciate the fact that a downpour then ensued. And yes, despite early heckling I had a raincoat and a pack cover. Vidication at last! Arrived at the harbor in the rain and were amazed that we were not hustled at all by the cops, thank you Lombok PD. Took the ferry back (saw Java in the distance) and parted ways with the Norwegians. They headed back down to Kuta and I was off to Ubud.
Funny thing about repetition in language - you really learn a phrase when you say it 45,000 times in one afternoon. Ke sama Ubud? (Which way to Ubud?) Incomprohesable gestures from the local, followed by my Terima Kasih (Thank you). Yet, despite my best efforts to get lost I discovered halfway though a town... I was in Ubud. Having no plan I pulled into an ally with a homestead sign and at the end found my current resting ground. A beautiful bungaloo with ornate carving and tile, bathtub, sitting room, hot water: and all looking over a picturesque rice patty field. This for 10 bucks a night. Set my bags down in time to watch the sunset and be served excellent hot tea. Walked out onto the town to discover I was 100 yards from 3 art galleries, 2 yoga studios, and a cafe with balsamic vinegar and feta cheese dressed pasta salad as a daily special. Needless to say, I have found nirvana. Dinner, and a walk to discover that everything is closed by 9, so I tucked myself in and listened to the instects chirp outside as the temp dropped to ~78 which felt rather cold.
Awoke this morning to chirping birds and hot tea on my porch over looking the patty fields. Walked over to the Yoga studio for a 2 hour class that was fantastic, and followed that up with excellent conversation with a bunch of Bobo's from the class (you'll have to read the book to catch the reference). Walked to the "Enchanted Monkey Forest" which proved to be rather amazing and picturesqe, and yes there were hordes of monkeys. Swapped books with a guy from Yoga and read on my porch as the afternoon sprinkle set in - while sipping more hot tea. I have found many Spring Break style tourist traps so far in Bali, but Ubud is the first tourist trap I would love to get trapped in.
Getting some great photos to post in a few days from Australia, and finally responding to email. Checking in with a huge smile from Ubud, Bali. --Trey
PS I love that I had no idea it was Valentines day until I read my email, it's great not to have commercialism sell you on the importance of a holiday.
Here's to catching up again.
Started out 5? days ago from Kuta, Bali. Karstein, Annetta,(The Norwegians as they are affectionately know) and I took off on motor bikes to Padangbai to catch the Ferry to Lombok (Next Indonesian island East of Bali). The drive was beautiful again with rice fields, palm trees, ocean, and locals not displaced by tourists. Arrived at Padangbai to enjoy my first taste of unabashed extrusion from a cop there when trying to buy my ferry ticket. With in a few minutes a bargain of 25,000 rupiah was agreed on for him to "let" us go to Lombok where our licenses were not valid. Mind you, that we were not doing anything wrong in Bali, where he was a cop. Took a 5 and 1/2 hour ferry ride to Lombok which was a cultural experience in it's own right. The 2 Swedes on the ferry and ourselves comprised the 5 Westerners out of ~300 passengers. We arrived at lumbar only to wait for the ferry that was docked to move (a process that took nearly an hour). I note this only because it should not have been a surprise that we were on the way. Hopped on the bikes and took off a full speed to evade the extorting cops and made it out of the harbor only to question which way we were going. It was nearing sunset (side note: there is no twilight here, sunset to dark in ~15 minutes) so we sped up the coast as fast as possible and pulled into sensuous, a nice little resort town. Here we checked into an expensive western hotel (135,000/night). We partook in hot water, bathtubs, and air conditioning. (queue the heavenly chorus) I slept like a retiree on a Sunday afternoon after lunch.
About 12 hours later I awoke from my comma, and joined the Norwegians for breakfast and a swim. We then decided that bangle (the public harbor serving traffic to the Giles) would not be a great place to leave our rented scooters unattended for days. So we charted a private boat to Gili Trawangan. We were to be whisked away by car and driver, taken to a harbor to catch our vessel for the 1:45 ride to the Giles. Instead, we walked with a guy to the harbor, waded through the surf to jump on a large dugout outrigger (maybe 20 feet long), driven by a 15 year old for the 3 hour ride to the Giles. Nonetheless it was fantastic. Beautiful views the whole way, and a bit exciting to be in a tiny and authentic boat in the open ocean. Arrived at the Gili's via a beach landing and walked to the Lonely Planet pick for rooms, which proved perfect. Got a room for 25,000/night (less than USD$3/night) which was in the village. Clean and had a private bathroom, working fan, and mosquito netting over the bed. (Funny the things you appreciate when living in places for 3 bucks a night) Funny thing about the Gilis is that there is basically no fresh water, that's right salt water showers, and salt water tooth brushings. And the locals couldn't love it more. (I commited the ultimate western sin and rinsed after a shower with bottled water as well as choosing the tastier but more expensive option for tooth brushing). Went and had a great dinner in a Bruga (Cabana style thing, you sit on the raised floor under a thatched roof) overlooking the crystal clear indian ocean. After dinner I was off for a drink and ran into brits from Kuta who insist I look them up when in the UK - gotta love the commoradery of travelers. Lastly to bed after seeing the sunset, milkly way, and a field of lights on the horizon which I learned were fishing boats. (Apprently you need a lot of fish to feed Indonesia)
Breakfast in the morning and then got some clothes washed. Waiting for them to dry I finished Bobo's in Paradise and read an Economist cover to cover. (things don't dry fast in this humidity, despite being 150 degrees out) Discovered my love for laying in a hammock in the south pacific reading about business from around the world. Also discovered a new distinction in clothing, most T-Shirts are too thick to be warn in the Gili's as they insulate to much - resorted to very light button ups. Went for a swim, talked to some folks, ate dinner, and crashed around 9. This is the good life.
Woke up to the mosque next door at 5 but went back to sleep. The heat got me out of bed by 9:30 and I went on to breakfast. (Another note: even toast takes over an hour to prepare on the Gili's) Followed up with a snorkeling trip on a guide boat. The water is like the carribean; I saw beautifull fish of a thousand varieties off Gili Trawangan, sea turtles off Gili Meno, and Giant Clams off Gili Air. Later I enjoyed a slow lunch on Gili Air, have I mentioned food is VERY slow in the Gili's. This is a good thing though as it puts you in the right frame of mind for how fast your days should be. (Trey's Law: The average heat of an enviroment is inversly proportional to the punctionality of it's people and their stress level.) Got back to Gili Trawangan for a walk around the island, then had diner and crashed at 9 again.
Woke up after trying to sleep in at 8. Went for a snorkle off the beach with the Norwegians and swam with 3 sea turtles! It was fantastic. And somehow 2 hours later I was still not sunburned (unlike my northern travel companions). Stopped for lunch and the rain set it. Left in a sprinkle 3 hours later and went back to read last few articles of the Economist. Then I joined the the Norwegians for dinner, drinks, and darts at a (no kidding) irish pub. Jesse, Julie, Craig and Tamara - wish you guys were here. I won at darts and then talked the Norwegians into bed around 11.
Woke up at 6 and rose the Norwegians so we could catch the 8 am boat back to Lombok. The "public" ferry in to Bangsal only goes once a full load of tickets are sold- but thankfully that only took an hour. Got to Bangsal to haggle for a cheap ride back to Singiggi where we picked up our scooters and sped for harbor at Lembar. Now anyone who has ever camped with my over-prepared, exceedingly overpacked self would appreciate the fact that a downpour then ensued. And yes, despite early heckling I had a raincoat and a pack cover. Vidication at last! Arrived at the harbor in the rain and were amazed that we were not hustled at all by the cops, thank you Lombok PD. Took the ferry back (saw Java in the distance) and parted ways with the Norwegians. They headed back down to Kuta and I was off to Ubud.
Funny thing about repetition in language - you really learn a phrase when you say it 45,000 times in one afternoon. Ke sama Ubud? (Which way to Ubud?) Incomprohesable gestures from the local, followed by my Terima Kasih (Thank you). Yet, despite my best efforts to get lost I discovered halfway though a town... I was in Ubud. Having no plan I pulled into an ally with a homestead sign and at the end found my current resting ground. A beautiful bungaloo with ornate carving and tile, bathtub, sitting room, hot water: and all looking over a picturesque rice patty field. This for 10 bucks a night. Set my bags down in time to watch the sunset and be served excellent hot tea. Walked out onto the town to discover I was 100 yards from 3 art galleries, 2 yoga studios, and a cafe with balsamic vinegar and feta cheese dressed pasta salad as a daily special. Needless to say, I have found nirvana. Dinner, and a walk to discover that everything is closed by 9, so I tucked myself in and listened to the instects chirp outside as the temp dropped to ~78 which felt rather cold.
Awoke this morning to chirping birds and hot tea on my porch over looking the patty fields. Walked over to the Yoga studio for a 2 hour class that was fantastic, and followed that up with excellent conversation with a bunch of Bobo's from the class (you'll have to read the book to catch the reference). Walked to the "Enchanted Monkey Forest" which proved to be rather amazing and picturesqe, and yes there were hordes of monkeys. Swapped books with a guy from Yoga and read on my porch as the afternoon sprinkle set in - while sipping more hot tea. I have found many Spring Break style tourist traps so far in Bali, but Ubud is the first tourist trap I would love to get trapped in.
Getting some great photos to post in a few days from Australia, and finally responding to email. Checking in with a huge smile from Ubud, Bali. --Trey
PS I love that I had no idea it was Valentines day until I read my email, it's great not to have commercialism sell you on the importance of a holiday.
Monday, February 07, 2005
When in Rome...
Well Karstein, Annetta, & I decided to splurge and eat out at a fantastic Japanese food restaurant last night. And it was truly fantastic. Beef & Lobster on a tepenyaki grill in a restaurant with A/C. I felt like I was in heaven. There was a serious pang of guilt though because at ~ USD$20, I spent a locals paycheck on a meal.
To continue acting like beach going tourists, we went to a club called fuel next. It was quite nice, just like being in New York or Philly. Drinks were only 50,000 rupia, or equal to the price of most hotel rooms on the island. Had a blast but realized later that we were 40 yards from the site of the Kuta Bombings from 2002. Sitting in this bar, drinking drinks that a local would never in there right mind buy, I realized that 200 people were doing the same and died. It's a crazy world we live in and I'm not sure how to always reconcile the good with the bad.
Getting ready to head off to Lombok tomorrow. This is a Muslim island next to Bali. A little curious how different the culture will be and if they will have any more animosity for Americans.
Checking out in Indonesia - Trey
To continue acting like beach going tourists, we went to a club called fuel next. It was quite nice, just like being in New York or Philly. Drinks were only 50,000 rupia, or equal to the price of most hotel rooms on the island. Had a blast but realized later that we were 40 yards from the site of the Kuta Bombings from 2002. Sitting in this bar, drinking drinks that a local would never in there right mind buy, I realized that 200 people were doing the same and died. It's a crazy world we live in and I'm not sure how to always reconcile the good with the bad.
Getting ready to head off to Lombok tomorrow. This is a Muslim island next to Bali. A little curious how different the culture will be and if they will have any more animosity for Americans.
Checking out in Indonesia - Trey
Sunday, February 06, 2005
I'm in heaven
I have finally found a place I can plug in my laptop and get an internet connection! I am currently listening to NPR, and I'm in heaven.
Sunburned from yesterday - so laying low, waiting for my credit card to arrive. Once that's in, I'll be off to the Gili Islands for a few days, and then to Australia. This place is wonderful - but it's too easy to just sit around sweating and wait for a month to pass. Can't wait to get to Australia and be running all over the country seeing things.
Sunburned from yesterday - so laying low, waiting for my credit card to arrive. Once that's in, I'll be off to the Gili Islands for a few days, and then to Australia. This place is wonderful - but it's too easy to just sit around sweating and wait for a month to pass. Can't wait to get to Australia and be running all over the country seeing things.
Saturday, February 05, 2005
It’s official - I’m an addict
I’m addicted to music, and well on may way to being addicted to travel. Here comes another catch-up entry, so get you may want to take a bathroom break.
Someday this past week –
Losing track of time, which is a fantastic thing. I decided to scoot up the East coast of Bali and look for the town of Padangbai. It should be about an hour and a half, but I managed to turn it into almost 4 and a half. Drove through the countryside, well as country as it gets here. Let’s keep in mind that Bali is about 100 x 25 miles and has a population approaching 10 million. (It does this without any urban density) Crossed beautiful bridges, ornate temples, lush mountains, palm trees, and all the while kept the dark blue ocean passing on the right. (soundtrack: Los Amigos Invisibles) Cruising on a mo-ped is so fantastic as it is the only place that feels cool in Bali, no where near James Dean cool, much closer to spring in Austin cool. Many times I rather purposely lost myself, one time in particular worked out fantastically. A side road wound through a small village, past some coconut fields, and then to the beach. I found a completely deserted, volcanic black sand beach. Blue water waves crashing into the steep black sand was one for the picture books. (pictures will eventually be posted). I did find Padangbai, a very cool looking tourist port with a ferry to Lombok. Seeing a point of land I had to drive out on it. From the top I saw a path off the far side. At the bottom I found myself alone in a small temple carved into the side of the cliff, overlooking the sea,… Bali is turning out okay. On the way back I stopped at a bridge to take pictures and was asked if I needed transportation, the kids bathing 100 feet below started motioning for money, I was sunburn and hot – definitely time to head home. Arrived at sunset and crashed.
Next Day –
Spent the day emailing and dealing with my credit card replacement. Card is on the way now, Jane & Chuck, you are my heros! Uneventful day, hot, bored, and decided for a change of pace to go drive the Mo-Ped. Hooked up the iPod listened to hip hop and basically raced through traffic. (Colin, while in Bali we don’t have to go bungee jumping or Jet Boating – you can just rent a Mo-Ped and drive it in traffic for thrills) Black Eyed Peas turned out to be a fantastic sound track to driving in Bali. So you can imagine it, just think of roads with 3 times too many vehicles, 80 percent mo-peds, with traffic lights and road stripes that are all but ignored. Everyone is in a rush and buzzing around each other, the wrong way down roads, all gas, all breaks, and no cops. As a dangerous pastime, it definitely ranks up there. To keep from breaking my neck the next day, I booked a snorkeling trip for 275,000 rupiah (a price only a Westerner would pay).
Mid-Week?
Left at 9 for my $30 snorkeling trip. Picked up by two people in a van. Driven 45 minutes to Nusa Dua in the South. Dropped off to a steward who gave me a locker and and flippers/mask. Passed then to a boat with a captain and crew member. I was then driven out to the reef by myself to snorkel with the crew swimming along to guide me to the best spots. (Have I mentioned 5 guys, a van, a boat, and an open facility for me alone?) Snorkeling was great, but would have been fantastic to go on a less windy week. Made friends with the crew and was invited to crawl around the wheelhouse along a 1 inch edge and sit on the bow. The Balinese crewmember and myself sat cross-legged on the bow and watched the eastern style fishing boats pass as we went to Turtle Island. Turtle Island is an “animal preserve” with sea turtles, snakes, bats, monkeys, owls, eagles, and fighting cocks. The fighting cocks are not out of place when you see how the animals are treated. 30 seconds into my hour tour I returned to the boat and we left again back to the beach. In route I noticed a Yacht Club! Asked my driver to stop by, but it was ¼ mile by boat and about 20 by car. So I returned to Kuta. Hungry I went to Matahari, the market center and found a grocery store. The grocery store is rather Western and I found peanut butter, jelly, & wheat bread. With a pb&j for lunch my spirit soared. I then decided to get a haircut…. At “Happy Salon” next to “Happy Snacks” I found a woman willing to wash, cut, and massage my scalp for about a buck fifty. This is fantastic expect the only description I could impart was “short” with a motion of my hands. All worked out quite well, but I still miss you Bianca. Came home to a clean room, clean sheets, and rediscovered my Yoga mat. (It’s amazing how tight I had become ignoring yoga for the past month and a half) Finished the day feeling that I had accomplished something, which was fantastic.
Oddly enough, I had been freaking out a bit about not doing any work. I saw myself as a guy in his physical and mental prime that had just ditched his job and life back home. I did not want to do this just to go get a damn tan. I want to accomplish something with my travel. I want to experience other cultures and learn about myself. Yet, when I started to question myself for playing in Bali I asked myself this: “What is harder for me: Stay at home, surrounded by family, friends, making a great living in beautiful Austin, or step off the edge of the world and see where I land with only myself to count on?” True I am not being challenged daily with work. I am playing on a paradise beach island. Yet, I am doing so rather freighted of the fact that I am 6,000 miles from home, in a third world country, and alone. It is being alone that is the biggest challenge for me, a fact those closest to me would appreciate. I am discovering what I am capable of being on my own, and it’s fantastic. Like I told my good friend George, I am working on building a quite confidence: a knowledge that all I need to be okay anywhere, I posses innately.
Yesterday…
Went Mo-ped’n down South to the Yacht Club by Nusa Duo. Met a great sailing couple from Canada 5 years into a circumnavigation. Apparently, Bali has the only marina in Indonesia. Cruised home, did some yoga and ate lunch. Began to feel board again and realized that no one is going to sweep me up and show me a good time. So I picked a spot of the map and scooted off. I ended up driving around the southern end of Bali, through many resorts, beaches, and even found myself at the end of a rough trail off the road only to discover yet another temple overlooking the sea. Yet, I have never seen water this beautiful. Clear blues and greens crashing ashore onto white sand beaches. Found more deserted beaches, and cruised on. A day full of Jack Johnson, G. Love, The Postal Service, and Donavon Frankenreiter. Ended up at the beautiful temple of Ula Watu approaching sunset. Amazing cliffs dropping hundreds of feet into the sea topped by 400 year old Hindu Temples. There were monkey running around and then, BAMM! From behind one jumped on my head from the wall 6 feet away. We both grabbed for my sunglasses and I ended up with 3/4 of them and the monkey got an arm to start nibbling on. A local showed me the trick of throwing food to the monkey and snagging back the item wanted. Decided not to pull out my camera here and left with blurry vision until I was safe to put my glasses back on. Cruised on to a turn off heading towards the water and found hill overlooking the ocean at sunset. Parked myself with my iPod and watched the sunset, lullabyed by Nora Joans, Nick Drake, and Patty Griffin. I could have been the only person on earth right then – and that would be just fine.
Drove home in the dark, ate dinner, and slept like a baby.
Well expect for the fact that my Malaria pill induced “vivid dreams” are getting rather vivid. At one point in the night, I was nearly convinced that I had split personalities with one taking over at night (ala Fight Club), but I was tired enough to just leave the night up to my alter ego as I just needed some sleep.
Today
A day of writing, reading, and swimming. Wearing a sarong for the first time, and wondering why it has taken me so long to find this wonderful garment. Went to the book store in Matahari looking for a NY Times or Economist to no avail. But realized that as long as I was in Indonesia, I might as well read to the Jakarta Post. Bush’s Inaugural address made front page news just below the article about war ships finishing up relief efforts. The US has won some serious brownie points here with the war ship help in the tsunami relief effort. I was in heaven with a business section, but began to sunburn.
Finding that I don’t have to shave much herew, and that time seems to slow dramatically. It feels like I’ve been gone for a month even though it’s only been a few weeks. I’m curious when I will stop feeling like I am just temporarily away, and start feeling like this is just my lifestyle. Can that happen? Does it require dissolving an idea of home? If so, I know I will always just feel like I am away for a bit. Being away from home is fantastic for facing loneliness. It is empowering to take full control for your own time and enjoyment. Met a beautiful, surfing, American girl at dinner (my first American, her 4th in a month) and discussed our plans. Found we were both going to go up to Ubud in the next few days. Yet, sensing a new side of me, I decided to not invite along this only other native English speaker. I decided I would enjoy that day more on my own.
So I finished up my day with a sunset soccer game on the beach with Balinese. Palm trees and chunks of coral as goals, I really enjoy the things that don’t need any translation. I think I am finally understanding the Bali culture: playfulness.
So I sign off with this thought from my day on the hill overlooking the sunset: A sunset always starts in the East. It hints at the colors and brilliance about to be displayed. This is how my travels are starting to feel
Someday this past week –
Losing track of time, which is a fantastic thing. I decided to scoot up the East coast of Bali and look for the town of Padangbai. It should be about an hour and a half, but I managed to turn it into almost 4 and a half. Drove through the countryside, well as country as it gets here. Let’s keep in mind that Bali is about 100 x 25 miles and has a population approaching 10 million. (It does this without any urban density) Crossed beautiful bridges, ornate temples, lush mountains, palm trees, and all the while kept the dark blue ocean passing on the right. (soundtrack: Los Amigos Invisibles) Cruising on a mo-ped is so fantastic as it is the only place that feels cool in Bali, no where near James Dean cool, much closer to spring in Austin cool. Many times I rather purposely lost myself, one time in particular worked out fantastically. A side road wound through a small village, past some coconut fields, and then to the beach. I found a completely deserted, volcanic black sand beach. Blue water waves crashing into the steep black sand was one for the picture books. (pictures will eventually be posted). I did find Padangbai, a very cool looking tourist port with a ferry to Lombok. Seeing a point of land I had to drive out on it. From the top I saw a path off the far side. At the bottom I found myself alone in a small temple carved into the side of the cliff, overlooking the sea,… Bali is turning out okay. On the way back I stopped at a bridge to take pictures and was asked if I needed transportation, the kids bathing 100 feet below started motioning for money, I was sunburn and hot – definitely time to head home. Arrived at sunset and crashed.
Next Day –
Spent the day emailing and dealing with my credit card replacement. Card is on the way now, Jane & Chuck, you are my heros! Uneventful day, hot, bored, and decided for a change of pace to go drive the Mo-Ped. Hooked up the iPod listened to hip hop and basically raced through traffic. (Colin, while in Bali we don’t have to go bungee jumping or Jet Boating – you can just rent a Mo-Ped and drive it in traffic for thrills) Black Eyed Peas turned out to be a fantastic sound track to driving in Bali. So you can imagine it, just think of roads with 3 times too many vehicles, 80 percent mo-peds, with traffic lights and road stripes that are all but ignored. Everyone is in a rush and buzzing around each other, the wrong way down roads, all gas, all breaks, and no cops. As a dangerous pastime, it definitely ranks up there. To keep from breaking my neck the next day, I booked a snorkeling trip for 275,000 rupiah (a price only a Westerner would pay).
Mid-Week?
Left at 9 for my $30 snorkeling trip. Picked up by two people in a van. Driven 45 minutes to Nusa Dua in the South. Dropped off to a steward who gave me a locker and and flippers/mask. Passed then to a boat with a captain and crew member. I was then driven out to the reef by myself to snorkel with the crew swimming along to guide me to the best spots. (Have I mentioned 5 guys, a van, a boat, and an open facility for me alone?) Snorkeling was great, but would have been fantastic to go on a less windy week. Made friends with the crew and was invited to crawl around the wheelhouse along a 1 inch edge and sit on the bow. The Balinese crewmember and myself sat cross-legged on the bow and watched the eastern style fishing boats pass as we went to Turtle Island. Turtle Island is an “animal preserve” with sea turtles, snakes, bats, monkeys, owls, eagles, and fighting cocks. The fighting cocks are not out of place when you see how the animals are treated. 30 seconds into my hour tour I returned to the boat and we left again back to the beach. In route I noticed a Yacht Club! Asked my driver to stop by, but it was ¼ mile by boat and about 20 by car. So I returned to Kuta. Hungry I went to Matahari, the market center and found a grocery store. The grocery store is rather Western and I found peanut butter, jelly, & wheat bread. With a pb&j for lunch my spirit soared. I then decided to get a haircut…. At “Happy Salon” next to “Happy Snacks” I found a woman willing to wash, cut, and massage my scalp for about a buck fifty. This is fantastic expect the only description I could impart was “short” with a motion of my hands. All worked out quite well, but I still miss you Bianca. Came home to a clean room, clean sheets, and rediscovered my Yoga mat. (It’s amazing how tight I had become ignoring yoga for the past month and a half) Finished the day feeling that I had accomplished something, which was fantastic.
Oddly enough, I had been freaking out a bit about not doing any work. I saw myself as a guy in his physical and mental prime that had just ditched his job and life back home. I did not want to do this just to go get a damn tan. I want to accomplish something with my travel. I want to experience other cultures and learn about myself. Yet, when I started to question myself for playing in Bali I asked myself this: “What is harder for me: Stay at home, surrounded by family, friends, making a great living in beautiful Austin, or step off the edge of the world and see where I land with only myself to count on?” True I am not being challenged daily with work. I am playing on a paradise beach island. Yet, I am doing so rather freighted of the fact that I am 6,000 miles from home, in a third world country, and alone. It is being alone that is the biggest challenge for me, a fact those closest to me would appreciate. I am discovering what I am capable of being on my own, and it’s fantastic. Like I told my good friend George, I am working on building a quite confidence: a knowledge that all I need to be okay anywhere, I posses innately.
Yesterday…
Went Mo-ped’n down South to the Yacht Club by Nusa Duo. Met a great sailing couple from Canada 5 years into a circumnavigation. Apparently, Bali has the only marina in Indonesia. Cruised home, did some yoga and ate lunch. Began to feel board again and realized that no one is going to sweep me up and show me a good time. So I picked a spot of the map and scooted off. I ended up driving around the southern end of Bali, through many resorts, beaches, and even found myself at the end of a rough trail off the road only to discover yet another temple overlooking the sea. Yet, I have never seen water this beautiful. Clear blues and greens crashing ashore onto white sand beaches. Found more deserted beaches, and cruised on. A day full of Jack Johnson, G. Love, The Postal Service, and Donavon Frankenreiter. Ended up at the beautiful temple of Ula Watu approaching sunset. Amazing cliffs dropping hundreds of feet into the sea topped by 400 year old Hindu Temples. There were monkey running around and then, BAMM! From behind one jumped on my head from the wall 6 feet away. We both grabbed for my sunglasses and I ended up with 3/4 of them and the monkey got an arm to start nibbling on. A local showed me the trick of throwing food to the monkey and snagging back the item wanted. Decided not to pull out my camera here and left with blurry vision until I was safe to put my glasses back on. Cruised on to a turn off heading towards the water and found hill overlooking the ocean at sunset. Parked myself with my iPod and watched the sunset, lullabyed by Nora Joans, Nick Drake, and Patty Griffin. I could have been the only person on earth right then – and that would be just fine.
Drove home in the dark, ate dinner, and slept like a baby.
Well expect for the fact that my Malaria pill induced “vivid dreams” are getting rather vivid. At one point in the night, I was nearly convinced that I had split personalities with one taking over at night (ala Fight Club), but I was tired enough to just leave the night up to my alter ego as I just needed some sleep.
Today
A day of writing, reading, and swimming. Wearing a sarong for the first time, and wondering why it has taken me so long to find this wonderful garment. Went to the book store in Matahari looking for a NY Times or Economist to no avail. But realized that as long as I was in Indonesia, I might as well read to the Jakarta Post. Bush’s Inaugural address made front page news just below the article about war ships finishing up relief efforts. The US has won some serious brownie points here with the war ship help in the tsunami relief effort. I was in heaven with a business section, but began to sunburn.
Finding that I don’t have to shave much herew, and that time seems to slow dramatically. It feels like I’ve been gone for a month even though it’s only been a few weeks. I’m curious when I will stop feeling like I am just temporarily away, and start feeling like this is just my lifestyle. Can that happen? Does it require dissolving an idea of home? If so, I know I will always just feel like I am away for a bit. Being away from home is fantastic for facing loneliness. It is empowering to take full control for your own time and enjoyment. Met a beautiful, surfing, American girl at dinner (my first American, her 4th in a month) and discussed our plans. Found we were both going to go up to Ubud in the next few days. Yet, sensing a new side of me, I decided to not invite along this only other native English speaker. I decided I would enjoy that day more on my own.
So I finished up my day with a sunset soccer game on the beach with Balinese. Palm trees and chunks of coral as goals, I really enjoy the things that don’t need any translation. I think I am finally understanding the Bali culture: playfulness.
So I sign off with this thought from my day on the hill overlooking the sunset: A sunset always starts in the East. It hints at the colors and brilliance about to be displayed. This is how my travels are starting to feel
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Change of plans v.2 & new phone number
Well I have broken down, the guy who couldn't wait to be without a cell phone has gotten one again. It's only when I am on the other side of the world when I begin to appreciate how important communication is with family and friends. (again thank you all for comments, by the way email me when you can as I cannot respond to comments) Of course it's also nice to have a phone to catch up with my Norwegian friends for dinner here.
So here's the number: 011-62-81933-010834*
*some phones want you to replace the 011 with "+"
I should be able to text message from this number and everyone is welcome to call, despite the fact that it will cost you about $1.50/minute. (free to accept calls).
PS to the parents, this is a second number as the first didn't allow text messages with US.
As for the mo-ped diaries - they'll be a bit different. Got a credit card stolen so I will be sleeping nights in Kuta and mo-peding out during the day while I await the replacement. Then I got a bit of "Bali Belly" and was stuck in my room with a fever for 2 days. Bali is amazing, beautiful, and hot. Yet it is overrun with tourists, and it is exhausting to deal with the never ending push of the locals to cheat you blind. They have no problem whatsoever asking a price 30 x the actual price. And, as a foreigner it is a challenge to know the difference. I really have to wonder about the effect of tourism on their culture. I am also curious about how they reconcile being a good person (which I believe nearly everyone really is) and basically stealing from someone else? Is it left over disdain from Colonialism? Is it an effect of not traveling and not understanding why these crazy, rich, white people come here to throw away there money? Or just greed? I also have to wonder if we do the same to foreingers in the US? Whatever it is, my mission before I leave is to penetrate this segregation between local and westerner and learn something about Balinese people and culture. Only time will tell if I am successful. Peace out from Bali- Trey
So here's the number: 011-62-81933-010834*
*some phones want you to replace the 011 with "+"
I should be able to text message from this number and everyone is welcome to call, despite the fact that it will cost you about $1.50/minute. (free to accept calls).
PS to the parents, this is a second number as the first didn't allow text messages with US.
As for the mo-ped diaries - they'll be a bit different. Got a credit card stolen so I will be sleeping nights in Kuta and mo-peding out during the day while I await the replacement. Then I got a bit of "Bali Belly" and was stuck in my room with a fever for 2 days. Bali is amazing, beautiful, and hot. Yet it is overrun with tourists, and it is exhausting to deal with the never ending push of the locals to cheat you blind. They have no problem whatsoever asking a price 30 x the actual price. And, as a foreigner it is a challenge to know the difference. I really have to wonder about the effect of tourism on their culture. I am also curious about how they reconcile being a good person (which I believe nearly everyone really is) and basically stealing from someone else? Is it left over disdain from Colonialism? Is it an effect of not traveling and not understanding why these crazy, rich, white people come here to throw away there money? Or just greed? I also have to wonder if we do the same to foreingers in the US? Whatever it is, my mission before I leave is to penetrate this segregation between local and westerner and learn something about Balinese people and culture. Only time will tell if I am successful. Peace out from Bali- Trey
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Managing to get out of the pool...
Well I decided to take up surfing yesterday... (Whit you would be proud, I stood up and rode in on my third wave) The surf is amazing - crystal clear, azul colored, 75 degree water, no wind, and 4-5 foot rollers on soft sand. I have a whole new appreciation of paddling. Went to bed early though, as I had to get up a 1 am this morning to climb Mount Batur.
The view was amazing, we reached the summit (~5,000 feet) around 4:30 am. Went with guides Mom, no worries. Around 5:45 the sky lit up with fiery oranges and yellows in a slate blue sky. White clouds drifting 3,500 feet below up on Lake Batur, which only reflected the spectacle above. For an added touch, the neighboring volcanoes were silhouetted by the sunrise. (great pictures coming ASAP, probably when I get to Australia) I was thinking I took the best sunrise picture of my life, but then I realized that the competition had few contestants due to my lack of sunrise viewings.
The hike was followed up with bathing in hot springs on Lake Batur, lunch overlooking the valley, and finally views of brilliant green rice patties. Got home around 4:30 exhausted and unbelievably happy and excited.
Excited because I am starting my own "Mo-Ped Diaries" tomorrow (although I highly doubt my conversion to communism). I'll be taking off tomorrow to tour Bali by Mo-Ped for 2 weeks. (Island is about 100 Miles by 25 miles). I plan to ride along the coast until I see an idyllic village in which to sleep in the traditional losmans (guest houses in local homesteads that dot the island). I'll be sure to photograph it well, and sure to share my adventures. Salemat Tingal from Bali.
PS Thank you Melissa for the most eloquent and moving message I have received yet, please send your email address at your leisure.
The view was amazing, we reached the summit (~5,000 feet) around 4:30 am. Went with guides Mom, no worries. Around 5:45 the sky lit up with fiery oranges and yellows in a slate blue sky. White clouds drifting 3,500 feet below up on Lake Batur, which only reflected the spectacle above. For an added touch, the neighboring volcanoes were silhouetted by the sunrise. (great pictures coming ASAP, probably when I get to Australia) I was thinking I took the best sunrise picture of my life, but then I realized that the competition had few contestants due to my lack of sunrise viewings.
The hike was followed up with bathing in hot springs on Lake Batur, lunch overlooking the valley, and finally views of brilliant green rice patties. Got home around 4:30 exhausted and unbelievably happy and excited.
Excited because I am starting my own "Mo-Ped Diaries" tomorrow (although I highly doubt my conversion to communism). I'll be taking off tomorrow to tour Bali by Mo-Ped for 2 weeks. (Island is about 100 Miles by 25 miles). I plan to ride along the coast until I see an idyllic village in which to sleep in the traditional losmans (guest houses in local homesteads that dot the island). I'll be sure to photograph it well, and sure to share my adventures. Salemat Tingal from Bali.
PS Thank you Melissa for the most eloquent and moving message I have received yet, please send your email address at your leisure.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Norweigans...Kiwis...Bacardi
Well I'm still in Kuta. But I've got 3 weeks without a schedule and I can handle that I think. Having a blast with folks I met around the pool (the accommodations are amazing here). Dropped off laundry so I'll be around at least until tomorrow... after that I just have to fly out on the 16th. Those are my deadlines. Went swimming in the surf today and I could see my toes clearly through the water, this place is truly amazing. I'll be taking many photos but don't think I'll be able to upload them until I get to Perth as the internet here is quite slow. Hope all is great back home. Here it is ~90 degrees, blue skies, blue water, and white sandy beaches -- gotta love it.
PS to answer your comment Nick, I have found that people so far hate American forgein policy, but not american people (thank goodness). Everyone should travel - I'm convinced.
PS to answer your comment Nick, I have found that people so far hate American forgein policy, but not american people (thank goodness). Everyone should travel - I'm convinced.
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
Bangkok to Bali
Deep breath... Here goes to catching up.
Saturday-
Well, after mailing home presents (post charges were literally 3 times the price of the items) I caught back up with Summer, Shannon, & Pop. We then went to the CU-TU 61st annual soccer match. CU (Chualalongkorn (spelling?)) and TU are the Harvard and Yale of Thailand. The streets, malls, and every last nook and cranny were packed with CU & TU fans and they all wore the same things. CU wore the same pink shirt (even the guys) and TU were the same red shirt. This uniformity makes more sense when you see that all, and I mean all, Thailand students were the same uniform (kindergarten through college). By the way my knowledge of this is hardly academic, but only what I saw. The uniform consists of a white pressed button down shirt and a black skirt for girls or black trousers for the guys (sometimes shorts too I think). The only way to tell schools apart is that they all wear a school pin.
Anyways, the match was fantastic. I even purchased a light pink polo so that I would fit right in (except for being white and about 60 pounds heavier than any local). I was really impressed by two things: first, they have this amazing ceremony before hand, in which, amongst other things, they have political floats. (Thailand's students led a revolution in the 70's that overthrew the existing government and imposed a constitution on the monarchy). Secondly, and more astounding coming from the US was there sense of sportsmanship. The cover of the game's brochure had a drawing of CU and TU students with their arms over each others shoulders. They completely lack the tendency of US football fans that want to tear the liver out of the opposing team's fans. Not to say they were not into the game. Standing up, screaming for their respective team, yet clapping when the other team did well. To say the least I think there is a thing or two to learn from this type of sportsmanship. When discussing the difference with a Thai, she asked if it was a side affect of Capitalism? An interesting point but I would hope there is a way to have a capitalist, yet egalitarian society (yet that is basically a contradiction).
Well, after the game we went with Oak to a great Thai restaurant and ate grilled catfish on a stick amongst other things. Yet again, falling asleep in the car on the way home but slowly getting more adjusted to the time.
Sunday-
The next day I checked out of my free lodgings with Shannon & Summer and took the express boat back up the river to Thewit district and checked back in to the Bangkok IYH. Here I proceeded to take a Thai cooking class. Now this was a great afternoon, 60 Baht (US$1.50) to learn to cook Thai food with a bunch of internationals while stimulating my pallet as never before. And that was basically my day. This is were I met the beautiful Tannie (americanized nickname) who later took me to were I could get a book on Bali. And still later we went to China town for Pad Thai that was indescribable. There is something amazing about sitting with a beautiful intelligent girl, in the middle of Chinatown, in Bangkok, at a tiny food stall in a crowded market, and thinking I'll never have Pad Thai this good again.
Monday-
Slept like a baby in the air-conditioned dorm. Slowly got my act together and headed towards Ayuteeya (will correct spelling later). Met a hilarious Canadian Paul on the express boat and shared lunch for 15 Baht a piece before taking the train out to Ayuteeya. Train ride was great yet, urbanization continued forever. Finally got to Ayuteeya and was in awe. The spirituality of this place was astounding. I was walking around outside amongst the ruins and remember thinking that I've never been somewhere outside that inspired such deference. Came home on the train called up Tannie for coffee and readied for my trip out.
Tuesday-
Got up, put my life back in my backpack and headed off to the airport. (rode in a mini van with 11 people AND their luggage) Needless to say it was on it's axles. Something great about traveling: I was in the shop/guesthouse buying my ticket when two Spanish speakers walked in and asked the store keeper about something. I started up conversation I realized I was talking to the first Mexicans I've met abroad yet (they live in Sydney though). Within about 2 minutes of conversation they gave me there numbers and email and told me to come stay with them when I get to Sydney. Literally 2 or 3 minutes! And I was invited into their home. Something about being the minority really brings folks together, I think. Jumped the plane to Singapore and then to Bali. Landed and changed me leaving date from Bali from the 2nd to the 16th because it is supposed to be paradise and half the price of Australia. Then the selling began. Holy cow do these people push their products; taxi, sunglasses, food, motorbikes, lodging. It's like verbal spam walking down the street. Yet, I am in Kuta which is very touristy. Met some Americans (whoo-ho) on the street, asked where they were staying a booked a room (Kedin's II on Poppies Lane 1). Very nice, pool, gardens, but no A/C for 85,000 Rupia a night (~US$10) including breakfast.
Wednesday-
Verbal spam doesn't let up for a moment. But upon seeing the water I realized why everyone is here. It's the freaking south pacific and it's cheap and easy for Australians to get to. Met an Aussie in an internet cafe and was recommended to the Giley Islands. So I think I'll fly to Lombok tomorrow (~US$30) and take a taxi to the harbor, and boat to the islands. Should be much less noisy at the least as it is small and there are no cars or scooters on it.
That's all for now folks, I commend you if you made it though. I've been trying to upload photos now for about 2 hours and got half of them up. Check here to see. I'll try to get more up later.
Saturday-
Well, after mailing home presents (post charges were literally 3 times the price of the items) I caught back up with Summer, Shannon, & Pop. We then went to the CU-TU 61st annual soccer match. CU (Chualalongkorn (spelling?)) and TU are the Harvard and Yale of Thailand. The streets, malls, and every last nook and cranny were packed with CU & TU fans and they all wore the same things. CU wore the same pink shirt (even the guys) and TU were the same red shirt. This uniformity makes more sense when you see that all, and I mean all, Thailand students were the same uniform (kindergarten through college). By the way my knowledge of this is hardly academic, but only what I saw. The uniform consists of a white pressed button down shirt and a black skirt for girls or black trousers for the guys (sometimes shorts too I think). The only way to tell schools apart is that they all wear a school pin.
Anyways, the match was fantastic. I even purchased a light pink polo so that I would fit right in (except for being white and about 60 pounds heavier than any local). I was really impressed by two things: first, they have this amazing ceremony before hand, in which, amongst other things, they have political floats. (Thailand's students led a revolution in the 70's that overthrew the existing government and imposed a constitution on the monarchy). Secondly, and more astounding coming from the US was there sense of sportsmanship. The cover of the game's brochure had a drawing of CU and TU students with their arms over each others shoulders. They completely lack the tendency of US football fans that want to tear the liver out of the opposing team's fans. Not to say they were not into the game. Standing up, screaming for their respective team, yet clapping when the other team did well. To say the least I think there is a thing or two to learn from this type of sportsmanship. When discussing the difference with a Thai, she asked if it was a side affect of Capitalism? An interesting point but I would hope there is a way to have a capitalist, yet egalitarian society (yet that is basically a contradiction).
Well, after the game we went with Oak to a great Thai restaurant and ate grilled catfish on a stick amongst other things. Yet again, falling asleep in the car on the way home but slowly getting more adjusted to the time.
Sunday-
The next day I checked out of my free lodgings with Shannon & Summer and took the express boat back up the river to Thewit district and checked back in to the Bangkok IYH. Here I proceeded to take a Thai cooking class. Now this was a great afternoon, 60 Baht (US$1.50) to learn to cook Thai food with a bunch of internationals while stimulating my pallet as never before. And that was basically my day. This is were I met the beautiful Tannie (americanized nickname) who later took me to were I could get a book on Bali. And still later we went to China town for Pad Thai that was indescribable. There is something amazing about sitting with a beautiful intelligent girl, in the middle of Chinatown, in Bangkok, at a tiny food stall in a crowded market, and thinking I'll never have Pad Thai this good again.
Monday-
Slept like a baby in the air-conditioned dorm. Slowly got my act together and headed towards Ayuteeya (will correct spelling later). Met a hilarious Canadian Paul on the express boat and shared lunch for 15 Baht a piece before taking the train out to Ayuteeya. Train ride was great yet, urbanization continued forever. Finally got to Ayuteeya and was in awe. The spirituality of this place was astounding. I was walking around outside amongst the ruins and remember thinking that I've never been somewhere outside that inspired such deference. Came home on the train called up Tannie for coffee and readied for my trip out.
Tuesday-
Got up, put my life back in my backpack and headed off to the airport. (rode in a mini van with 11 people AND their luggage) Needless to say it was on it's axles. Something great about traveling: I was in the shop/guesthouse buying my ticket when two Spanish speakers walked in and asked the store keeper about something. I started up conversation I realized I was talking to the first Mexicans I've met abroad yet (they live in Sydney though). Within about 2 minutes of conversation they gave me there numbers and email and told me to come stay with them when I get to Sydney. Literally 2 or 3 minutes! And I was invited into their home. Something about being the minority really brings folks together, I think. Jumped the plane to Singapore and then to Bali. Landed and changed me leaving date from Bali from the 2nd to the 16th because it is supposed to be paradise and half the price of Australia. Then the selling began. Holy cow do these people push their products; taxi, sunglasses, food, motorbikes, lodging. It's like verbal spam walking down the street. Yet, I am in Kuta which is very touristy. Met some Americans (whoo-ho) on the street, asked where they were staying a booked a room (Kedin's II on Poppies Lane 1). Very nice, pool, gardens, but no A/C for 85,000 Rupia a night (~US$10) including breakfast.
Wednesday-
Verbal spam doesn't let up for a moment. But upon seeing the water I realized why everyone is here. It's the freaking south pacific and it's cheap and easy for Australians to get to. Met an Aussie in an internet cafe and was recommended to the Giley Islands. So I think I'll fly to Lombok tomorrow (~US$30) and take a taxi to the harbor, and boat to the islands. Should be much less noisy at the least as it is small and there are no cars or scooters on it.
That's all for now folks, I commend you if you made it though. I've been trying to upload photos now for about 2 hours and got half of them up. Check here to see. I'll try to get more up later.
Tuesday, January 25, 2005
Addition from 1/17
Added a post I composed on the way to Bangkok (finally got my laptop online in Singapore). More to come soon....
Saturday, January 22, 2005
Photos...finally
Well it took awhile to hack past the "don't install anything on me security" in this internet cafe, but thanks windows for making it easy to get past. Anyways got some photos uploaded, check out Bangkok photos here (sorry but the weather has not cooperated yet for good picture taking weather, it has rained everyday and not cleared up yet) Well, I'm off to a soccer game this afternoon between rival Thai universities, Shannon's (girl from plane) friends (Pop and Mac, speak English and gave me easy versions of there names) that live in Bangkok went to the one wearing pink shirts? Pop and Mac took us to dinner last night which was amazing, but holy hell they can use the spice here.
I finally got why the Thai folks I try to speak Thai to don't understand me (other than the obvious point that I don't speak Thai). Thai is tonal and for an example Mac said this: guy, guy, guy, guy, & guy means...(gave 5 different things). To this I responded, huh? Apparently the tone, distinguishes the meaning. Akin to the difference in musical notes; "guy" spoken in C sharp means something but B flat means something else. That coupled with the fact Thai which is written with Thai characters (44 characters) has no capital letters or punctuation. And if that wasn't hard enough they don't put spaces between their words only between sentences. Anyone that has ever heard me sing would appreciate the challenge of learning Thai, so more power to the one white guy I've seen speaking it so far.
Having trouble writing in flowing sentences. Speak English broken. Sentences not work. Yes, no yes.
I'll leave you with a photo of the amazing tailor setup on the street that hemmed my pants for me. This guy rocks, amazingly friendly and like other Thais I have met he took phenomenal pride in what he did.
Smiles from Thailand.
Trey
I finally got why the Thai folks I try to speak Thai to don't understand me (other than the obvious point that I don't speak Thai). Thai is tonal and for an example Mac said this: guy, guy, guy, guy, & guy means...(gave 5 different things). To this I responded, huh? Apparently the tone, distinguishes the meaning. Akin to the difference in musical notes; "guy" spoken in C sharp means something but B flat means something else. That coupled with the fact Thai which is written with Thai characters (44 characters) has no capital letters or punctuation. And if that wasn't hard enough they don't put spaces between their words only between sentences. Anyone that has ever heard me sing would appreciate the challenge of learning Thai, so more power to the one white guy I've seen speaking it so far.
Having trouble writing in flowing sentences. Speak English broken. Sentences not work. Yes, no yes.
I'll leave you with a photo of the amazing tailor setup on the street that hemmed my pants for me. This guy rocks, amazingly friendly and like other Thais I have met he took phenomenal pride in what he did.
Smiles from Thailand.
Trey
Friday, January 21, 2005
What day is it?
Well I'm already losing track of time while simultaneously getting my bio-clock back in line. Slept all the way until 6:30 today! Staying up late, and sleeping in a comfortable air conditioned room definitely helps. Caught back up with the girls I met on the plane from LAX and they offered me free lodging with them at the Twin Towers hotel which I grabbed at like the hungry dogs walking around Bangkok's alleys. So A great shower, night on the town, and sleep in a king sized bed with a real mattress has done wonders for my spirits. Not to mention the weather is clearing and I got some great pictures yesterday of Wat Phra Kaew (BTW Wat is a temple, of which there are ~600 in Bangkok alone). It was amazing. Hopefully I'll have some photos uploaded within a few days, just have to get my computer online somewhere. Did a little shopping yesterday for souvenirs and real deal beatnik clothing to wear around these blazing climates. (Did I mention it's 95/95, that's degrees/humidity) The rain each morning really keeps this place blazing.
The real adventure was going out last night with Summer and Shannon to one of those famous Bangkok "Strip Clubs". 20 mins is plenty for a lifetime, but I think you have to see it while here, so I did. Let's just say I'll never look at ping pong balls the same. (cold shutter running down spine)
Thank you all for the great comments, haven't figured out how to respond directly to them so I just wanted to let you know they're great to read.
Via con dios, (entirely out of context use of foreign language)
Trey
PS got my backpack back night before last, which has made me much less stinky.
The real adventure was going out last night with Summer and Shannon to one of those famous Bangkok "Strip Clubs". 20 mins is plenty for a lifetime, but I think you have to see it while here, so I did. Let's just say I'll never look at ping pong balls the same. (cold shutter running down spine)
Thank you all for the great comments, haven't figured out how to respond directly to them so I just wanted to let you know they're great to read.
Via con dios, (entirely out of context use of foreign language)
Trey
PS got my backpack back night before last, which has made me much less stinky.
Thursday, January 20, 2005
Waking up at 5:00 am.
I should be more accurate before some of my old colleges have a heart attack. I'm waking up at 5 am in Bangkok only because my internal clock is so jacked up the last couple days.
Despite my best efforts got a bit scammed by a local yesterday. He was this "nice guy" who just wanted to "practice his English" (right out of the warnings in the travel books). But I thought I'll bleed this guy for info on Thai culture and keep my shirt on. Despite that I ended up buying crap I didn't need for way to much because I didn't want to just walk away from the guy and tell him to... On my local's advice I got a Thai massage which was pretty bad ass, but I paid 1000 Baht for it. None the less, it was 2 hours and 1000 Baht is about $25, so I guess it won't force me home in bankruptcy.
I did get a couple pictures yesterday, but the computer at the hostel isn't picking up my flash card reader. So I'll have to try another internet cafe today. By the way, you computer guys will appreciate that the chassis of the computer that sits in an outdoor veranda in 100% humidity is somehow grounded because when you touch it, it shocks you. Well the rain is letting up and the sun is rising.
Hoping for blue skies in Southeast Asia, Trey
PS Thanks for all the comments and emails, I love practicing my english as well.
Despite my best efforts got a bit scammed by a local yesterday. He was this "nice guy" who just wanted to "practice his English" (right out of the warnings in the travel books). But I thought I'll bleed this guy for info on Thai culture and keep my shirt on. Despite that I ended up buying crap I didn't need for way to much because I didn't want to just walk away from the guy and tell him to... On my local's advice I got a Thai massage which was pretty bad ass, but I paid 1000 Baht for it. None the less, it was 2 hours and 1000 Baht is about $25, so I guess it won't force me home in bankruptcy.
I did get a couple pictures yesterday, but the computer at the hostel isn't picking up my flash card reader. So I'll have to try another internet cafe today. By the way, you computer guys will appreciate that the chassis of the computer that sits in an outdoor veranda in 100% humidity is somehow grounded because when you touch it, it shocks you. Well the rain is letting up and the sun is rising.
Hoping for blue skies in Southeast Asia, Trey
PS Thanks for all the comments and emails, I love practicing my english as well.
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Holy Hell, Batman! I'm in Thailand!
Alright, so the act of getting here was a little less immediate. (more on the plane rides later). I arrived in Bangkok around 2 AM this morning and found that my backpack was still in Dallas, China Airlines says it was AA (go figure). China airlines are amazing by the way, lots of great food service and new 747's. Never deterred I received a tourist visa and blew past the guys charging 600 Baht for a taxi ride to the local rail station. Here for 10 Baht (~25 cents) I rode into the city center. It was right out of the indiana jones with the railroad. Wooden floored and seated cars windows wide open and no doors. People sprawled everywhere ensuring that I felt very fortunate for what life has dealt me. It challenging enough to now which way to go on the railroad, but once on there is NO map, NO announcement of stops, and NO English. Not just is there no English but everything is in Sanskrit (including the keyboard I'm typing on) so that I could identify it on a map if I wanted to. Luckily I was getting off at the main train station that was a far cry from the local stops and therefore stood out. Jumped off the train with everyone else as it was still rolling into the station and walked through the groups of people asleep on the sidewalk outside. I could have then walked the 3 miles to the hostel but I gave in a paid way to much for a Tuk Tuk ride (200 Baht) and we had to stop 4 times to check my map on how to find the place. Finally, dropped off at 4 am and the place is dark with a closed sign! Luckily the entrance around the building was open within 30 minutes and I found that I had a reservation for the wrong day! None the less the night man let me pay my 70 Baht (~$2) for a "Fan Dormitory Room". That's right bob, no A/C in the 90 degree night. Yet I have to say I'm enjoying the jump into real deal traveling. The forth floor room I share with 7 others looks out onto a city unlike that I have ever seen. At first last night I was scarred to death I had made an enormous mistake, but morning shown that the 1st day of my adventure will be wonderful. I'm excited beyond belief and can't wait to get some pictures up here for you all to see.
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