Bali, Indonesia

Bali has been on my list for a long time (one of many that prompted this trip)... and it did not disappoint. My favorite spot was Ubud, a cute inland town with great shopping, excellent food, and a gorgeously landscaped hotel including a pool I had no time to use.

The island is very picturesque. I rented a bike for three days and rode along rice terraces and shop-lined streets stocked with local art and handicrafts. I also hiked part way up Bali's highest and holiest mountain: the Gunung Agung volcano. Finally I did a bit more diving at the Liberty wreck near Amed's rocky beaches. It is sad how quiet Bali is -- most hotels are empty and everyone laments the lack of tourists. What a shame that people are scared away from such a beautiful destination!

Next I'm off to Singapore then Vietnam/Laos/Cambodia. It looks like I may circle back to Indonesia in February. Amber's brother is getting married in Jakarta and I plan to change my ticket so I can meet up with the wedding party. I am constantly struggling with the trade-off between spending more time in one place and moving on to see others... I just don't want to cut the rest of my itinerary short by taking more time in Southeast Asia. Africa will just have to wait!