Bikes and beaches

I planned to get up earlyish and head out, got up at 10. Had banana pancakes at the hostel (surprisingly ok) before my day exploring the island. I hired a bike for the day planned to cycle the edge of the island; this did not take long. I made it back to the centre in about an hour, that included a swim in the sea (so clear and so warm). Had lunch at the place I got collected for the hostel yesterday, Indonesian chicken with salsa like thing and rice with fresh mango juice. Feed and watered, I headed back round the island towards sunset point and spent the rest of the afternoon in the shade of a handy tree, reading, enjoying the amazing view and occasional paddling. As the tide went out, loads of coral was exposed and found a few crabs (one looked almost hairy with its camouflage) and loads of what I think we're starfish. They had long thin legs which seemed to have loads of feelers/hairs on them. Loads were half hidden in holes or under rocks, with 2 or 3 legs sticking out, others 'walking' across pools.

Stayed to watch the sunset, which was beautiful, before heading back to the main strip for dinner. I hadn't realised that I had pretty much gone right round the island again to get to where I was (still not that far). The ride back was interesting as lots of sections has no lights, note did the people walking the roads or many of the bikes. I had the torch on my phone. Phone in hand, trying to ride over sand and potholes isn't the easiest but at one point I noticed the stats- they were so bright and clear 😍

I had dinner at the night market again, for sticks of prawns, squid, muscle and some kind of fish. I took better advantage of the free sides this time. Back at the hostel I had planned to join anyone going into town but as luck would have it it was quiet so I got out of that, instead spent the night talking with an Italian/Morrocan girl called Aya. It was really nice chatting with her (and knowing I won't have a hangover on the boat tomorrow). I also ate a mini banana an Australian lady gave me- well, most of it. Feel that is an accomplishment in itself 😂Read more