Back to Bali

We got back on to Bali by the same boat as we took to Lembongan. On arrival on Sanur beach we were greeted by the usual hoard of guys looking for business in the form of transport. After a lot of messing around we were on our way and thought that was behind us but one guy from the beach chased down our taxi. The two drivers shouted at each other at the side of the road until another driver pulled over and broke it up. It was another indication of just how desperate people are for visit in the areas that rely on tourism for income.

The heavens opened as we travelled from Sanur to Kuta, by the time we got to the road where we were hoping to find accomodation it was tipping it down.

Yep, Jenn's a surfer chick

I did the running around to sort out a place to stay and we landed ourselves at Mimpi's Bungalows. The rooms were nice. Each was a detached "bungalow" set in vivid trees and other plants. We had marble (or granite or something) floor and a working fan to help keep it cool. There was a pool which we made use of in the evening and the following morning.

Breakfast was included in the price for the room, which was a treat. Then we had the breakfast and found we were still starving so we headed to a local bar for more food!

Most of our time in Kuta was spent either wondering around the shops and stalls picking up cheap stuff.

On the Wednesday Jenn and I went for a meal at a restaurant in front of the beach called Charcoal. Its an italian resaurant and we learnt during the night that the chef is italian. The food was very good and the service came with a smile from all but one of the staff there. We couldn't make out the non-smiler, she just seemed grumpy!

Thursday came, my last day in Bali. We spent most of the day on the beach laying in the Sun... ok we actually tried to get in the shade, the sun was intense! We hired a couple body boards. I was pretty useless, Vicki had done it before so had some good rides... when Jenn finally went in for a turn she proved to be a total natural. Yep, Jenn's a surfer chick ;-)

For the last night we went out for a nice meal. The first place we went wasn't serving a lot of what we wanted and just didn't feel good so we left and all three went back to Charcoal. Jenn tried lobster for the first time, I had a steak meal recommended by the chef who came out to chat with us before the meal, and Vicki had a pasta dish. The food was good, but the real winner at this place was the entertainment. Jenn couldn't resist, she had to drag me up for a dance. Yeah, it was that good. If you like cheese and a lot of mumbles where the guy singing doesn't know the words!

Friday morning came and Jenn and I got up early and headed to the airport as planned. We were pretty gutted to find that you aren't actually allowed in to the airport buildings without a ticket, so we had to stop and say our goodbyes outside, much sooner than we'd expected.

Parting was hard on both of us, but it was amazing being together in such an amazing place.

It wouldn't be right to end this without a note to Vicki... Thanks loads for being cool enough to let me join you both in Bali, and for allowing us space and time together while I was there. I'm sure you know, that meant a huge amount to me. Every moment with Jenn was a gift I'll always appreciate. I owe you one!!! And of course, thanks for being a great drinking partner!! :-D x