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This side of things
  • Amelia Wilkinson
  • Amelia Wilkinson

This side of things

Here till I'm not Les mer
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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende
    2

    Final day

    31. mars 2023, Australia ⋅ 🌬 18 °C

    Everyone left me today. I was sad but it meant I could do stuff and have an admin day without missing out in anything with one of the girlies.

    Woke up and Mina left, then had another round of pancakes, cause they are free. But then Mia left too afterwards leaving me all alone with our crazy roommate who was nowhere to be seen.

    So when I finally pulled myself out of the Tiktok rabbit hole,I did laundry. It wasnt yet time on my rotation but that day will be when I'm flying to Melbourne so I decided to do it early to avoid the stress. Once done I decided I really should pack up my monstrosity of a bag explosion. 1.5hrs later I was finally done. I cannot believe it took me so long but I did refold everything and rearrange some of the stuff I wont be wearing for the next week thanks to it getting colder.

    By this point it was 2pm and I hadn't eaten so I stole some food from the hostels free shelf. Someone had left part of a garlic bread there, so I took that. Then found the baggy shorts I had bought and took them in. They have zipped pockets so even though they were 4inches too big, I was not letting them go.

    Then booked some flights and accomodation and said goodbye to my money as it disappeared rather quickly.

    I did decide to have an early night so I was refreshed for the journey tomorrow. But my crazy roommate reappeared and turned on all the lights just as I was about to sleep. She had been doing this all week and I am just so done with her. She also brought the cat with her. Now I love the cat, she is truly adorable. But being awoken by her was not fun. She is very playful and did not want to relax so I told my roommate to take her back. The crazy chick did in the loudest way possible and I could finally sleep.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Here we go again

    1. april 2023, Australia

    Today was another bus day. Really not much to report.

    I travelled from Albany to East Perth. The bus was exactly the same as the last 3 I have taken. 6hrs of uneven roads. I had an older woman sit next to me most of the way. Cant say I was thrilled as there were spare seats but I've realised the closer I am to the front on these buses the better. I am never sock, it's just nausea and I get that daily so anyway to reduce it I will take.

    East perth to Freemantle was an experience. The trainline is being redone so it was bus replacement. Late and full but also free. Noone ever checks on a rail replacement bus and it was busy enough that I was not the only one doing it. That bus got me to Perth station which was a confusing and boiling walk to the station. I had to ask a guard twice because their ticketing system is too cheap, and no train was going to my destination. But finally I was on board and headed down.

    My hostel is the YHA in the prison. I choose this one because it has such a unique location. Unfortunately, its location is hard to get too and I got rather lost. The hostel though nice is the illusive 3rd kind of hostel I dont quite like. Most hostels are party hostels or long term hostel, or a mixture of those two. This is neither and it is also very empty because it is so expensive. Overall it is ok, but the amount it costs a night for a 10bed room, is not worth it.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Freemantle

    2. april 2023, Australia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    Freemantle is cute. I get Brighton vibes from it. Lots of lane ways, the beach is right there and artwork everywhere.

    I wanted to go to the port to have a look but that was all so I let myself get distracted along the way.

    Headed to the tourist centre to see of there was anything worth seeing while I was here. The answer, not really.

    I wandered through the freemantle markets. They reminded me of a mix of the kemptown and borough markets. Indoors but so many different things. I bought some fresh plums which are stunning, and there was a German stall that had pretzels. Pretzels are the main reason I want to go back to germany, so that made me very happy.

    Freemantle itself is a very small city wise so had fun just wandering around. The university was having an open day so some of the streets were blocked off or super busy.

    The port is ugly, but the sailing port is prettier. They had a few lookouts over the coast but not much else.

    I like freemantle but there really isnt much too it and it is definitely a more expensive area.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    The wild west

    3. april 2023, Australia ⋅ 🌙 21 °C

    I also booked myself on a guided bus tour of the island. Was it a little unnecessary yes, but I enjoyed it.

    The bus had a guide who talked to us about the history and wildlife on the island. But the bit I most wanted was he took us to the western most part of the island. From here, the first landmass you will hit is Madagascar over 3.5 thousand kilometres away. The wind had picked up quite a bit and it was so fresh.

    This part of the coast is more rugged and parts of the cliffs are hewn out by the wind. The waves are bigger and everything feels just that little bit more powerful.

    It also meant I got the see the entire island without having to do the massive walk there and back which would have taken me all day. The island is small but the paths are windy and the sun was very strong.

    The boat back was a little hairy. The wind continued to pick up so we were rocking quite a bit at times but the 30mins finally ended and I was back on the mainland once more.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Rottnest Island

    3. april 2023, Australia ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    Rottnest island is stunning. With white sand, crystal clear waters and inland salt lakes of a pastel pink, it is idyllic.

    I decided to do the 8k loop around the main part of the island and its lake. 3 hours and I saw almost noone. The island is beautiful and even though it is clearly built upon, the man made structures somehow do not take away from the beauty.

    The sun was shinning the entire time and it made every sparkle with this intense shimmer that seemed to bring the island to life.

    I may have gone to see the Quokkas but I fell in love with the island.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Quokkas

    3. april 2023, Australia

    I'm not gonna lie, the fact I did an 8k walk to see these guys but they were literally at the visitor centre, I had by passed at the start, was not cool.

    Also, once you see them in full profile they get much less cute.

    O/10 for hiding. 8/10 for friendly, they got a little to close for my liking and 10/10 for fluffy!    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Flying

    4. april 2023, Australia ⋅ 🌙 19 °C

    I was expecting to be more stressed on this journey but I surprised myself by being very calm.

    I woke up around 7am. Leaving me with 2 hours to finish packing, eat and prepare mentally for my journey.

    Leaving at 9 was definitely earlier than necessary but as it took me 1.5hrs to get from freemantle to the airport I'm glad I did. The train was the easy part. Sit down for 30mins and ride the train from one end of the line to the other. The difficult part was getting from perth CBD to the airport.

    They were doing rail works still meaning I had to get the rail replacement bus once more. Now I got lucky in that when I arrived at the stop the bus was already there and I hopped straight on. However, I soon learnt that I had not hopped on the 9,45 bus, I had got on the 9,30 bus. They were running so late I ended up on the earlier bus that still left after the one i meant to get.

    As a result i arrived at the airport around 10,30 and it was far too early but I do not trust public transportation. And rightfully so.

    I then got to speak to noone and checked my bag in myself. I had much anxiety over it as much boarding passes, yes I had two, and the baggage label had different notations. It later transpired that much bag got on the direct to Melbourne nearly 3hrs before I got on my flight. So very glad I checked in early as it was able to do that.

    My first flight was an experience. I was having to switch in Adelaide as the direct was far out of my price range. The flight left late which made my 1hr switch over even shorter, just adding to my anxiety.

    I also am a cheapscate and had to sit in the middle seat. Yay. Two older guys, one of which fidgeted the entire time.

    My second flight ended up being delayed however so I needn't have stressed. I bought a muffin from the same cafe I have gone to all other times I have been in adelaide airport which is a depressingly large amount now.

    Got on my second flight to Melbourne and was very happy to find myself seated again in the middle but without someone in the isle so I hastily switched and had a bit more space.

    Arriving in Melbourne airport was like coming home. I after all know it better than Gatwick at this point. From landing to my hostel bed was no more than 2hrs so I was thrilled to sleep.    Les mer

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    Melbourne

    5. april 2023, Australia ⋅ ☁️ 16 °C

    Once more in Melbourne. It is nice being back somewhere I know. I know the street names, I know where the shops are and I know where the trams go.

    I cannot say I am enjoying the cooler weather but I do like Melbourne. It's very annoying. I dont like it when I like places, it makes leaving harder.

    The city is just as I recall and I had fun walking through it again. That is really all I did today. Travel is a lot and I today I was very exhausted from the most interrupted sleep of my entire travel.

    Two of the girls in my room checked out this morning and they were insanely loud. From everything to banging doors, to turning on a hair dryer. A hair dryer, in our tiny room at 6,30am. I have not woken up so angry in a very long time.    Les mer

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    AGV

    6. april 2023, Australia ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C

    The one place in Melbourne I did not go last time so knew I should this time. The Art Gallery of Victoria.

    I have seen a fair few art galleries now and frankly they are beginning to get a little monotonous. However, being a state wide art gallery this was a little different.

    Outside they have a large open area where an artist has recreated the Greek Acropolis and covered it in colour. I did not quite understand the reasoning however in the sunlight it was stunning.

    Inside was a large videogrohy exhibition. This is not something I have seen before and I enjoyed it a lot. The artists had managed to create art from videos and light, something I can get behind.

    Upstairs were many other galleries. The colonial British and European exhibitions were on all floors but as I know quite a bit about europe I avoided them.

    There were also exhibits on both the Macedonian and Grecian ears, as well as a large Asian gallery. This gallery walked you through many different cultures and their artworks influenced by them. I found the Japanese works to be my favourite. The colours and textures were somehow calming.

    There was the customary exit via the gift shop before I had to head back a little earlier than I was as I had a friend to meet.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Dinner date

    6. april 2023, Australia

    Bec and I met in Albany last week and as a native victorian, she insisted we meet so she could show me about some more of Melbourne.

    We had the intention of travelling out of the city ot a nature reserve full of hills and incredible sunset views. Unfortunately, the weather did as Melbourne is so prone to do out of summer, it rained.

    So we switched up our plans and went for dinner instead. She had been wanting to try a new burger place so I was her victim for that excursion. The restaurant is on top of a building in train carriages. The view from the top of the setting sun was very nice, the burger better. The restaurant felt very eccentric and exactly what I would expect for that area of Melbourne.

    After we did a tour of the suburbs in her car. We found a lookout over the city and despite the hazy mist, the lights of the city could be seen clearly. The trees of the park framed the city and blocked out the industrial park off to the side.

    We then headed back into the city and went to a Costco. It was quite something. Somehow a mix of lidl and IKEA but worse. Massive bulk buying for cheap.very american and a very strange experience. And of course, we had to get dessert. This was an icecream but it was soft serve so more like a mr. whippy with a berry coulis. Surprisingly ok for what it was.

    Bec is moving to england in a few months so we made a pact to meet again over there.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Comedy show

    7. april 2023, Australia ⋅ 🌧 16 °C

    Went for coffee this morning with Ashley. She is another friend I met travelling, this time in Tasmania. Her and her mother were doing a trip around Australia before her semester abroad in Melbourne. Catching up with her was really nice as we were close during the tour we did. She is doing really well at uni and I am happy for her if a little jealous.

    This week was Melbournes comedy festival and Gabbi Holt was playing. I have been following her since England but did not realise until a few weeks ago that she was Australian. I was very excited when I saw she was playing in Melbourne while I was there. So I forced Moni to come with me and had the best night.

    Gabbi is a comedian but also singer and song writer. She manages to write songs that comment on the political or social issues, and perform them with the skill of a comedian and talent of a singer. Her voice is very good, especially for someone singing and playing live. Personally I think she is incredible and am very glad I went.

    That was the second show I have seen while being out here. Was it necessary no, can I afford it probably not, but was she brilliant, yes.

    Once back I had to finish packing as I had given up earlier on in the day. I had the intention of sending some of my notebooks and clothes home. It would have cost me but I currently have 3 full notebooks and my copy of hitchhiking from tassie to England and lugging them around is quite a bit of effort. Unfortunately it is Easter weekend and for some reaosn everyhting in Australia closes this weekend. Shops, banks, grocery stores, pharmacies and most vexingly post offices are all closed until tuesday. 4 whole days being closed. So I get to bring everything to bali with me. Yay. My bag is packed in such a way that the bottom half I should not need to access and the top bit had everyhting I may need. At least I hope so.

    While packing I realised my favourite jeans were ripped right along the back. As my favourite pair for the last 4+years, I was very disappointed to find this out but as with everything I own, they were getting a little worse for wear. I fear I may have to replace more things soon, I am finding more and more things are on their last legs.    Les mer

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    To Bali!

    8. april 2023, Australia ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    Today is another travel day, but this one is a little different. After 6.5months in Australia I am leaving. I have 3.5 weeks in Bali scheduled!

    My friend I met in Sydney has Easter off from her Au Pair role so we decided to do a little holiday together. For the next week, I will no longer be a solo traveller.

    Check in the the flight took over an hour. We are having to fly Melbourne to Adelaide then to Denpassar. For some reason virgin was having a sale on connecting flights. So though it is taking longer we are getting it for far cheaper. Though not as cheap as I would like!

    Moni and I managed to get our seats changed. We booked separately so were supposed to be apart but her host mum is a virgi platinum member and managed to upgrade Moni. Thanks to that the flight attendant moved me as well so we could be together. And not just together, in the premium extra leg room seats. It was glorious.

    In Adelaide airport I got my usual muffin. This is my 4th time in the airport, and my 4th muffin. We had a fairly long layover which was less than ideal but we occupied ourselves with downloading asia specific apps and trying to get our Visas online (we were unsuccessful). Before boarding our second flight.

    Moni was not upgraded on this one and I had the window seat already so did not want to. This means we are separate again but only for a little while. I was back to a normal seat and penned in rather tightly.

    They do not provide food on this flight which sucks but I have an oat slice and shall be sleeping so do not mind so much.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Check in drama

    9. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C

    So, that was an experience.

    Unfortunately by the time we made it through immigration, got a visa, customs and managed to get a sim card and taxi sorted, it was 12.30am. We had landed at 10.30 so needless to say were a little exhausted by this point.

    Our taxi took us to our correct accommodation thankfully but did not go right to it. So we had to walk down a rather dodgy looking alleyway and ended up passing it a couple times before finding it. Once we found it, because it was 1,30am noone was awake.

    Thankfully after around 10minutes of confusion, a local came past on a bike. I swallowed my awkwardness and asked him to help. He was amazing and managed to get the owners up and awake for us. At this point we felt very bad because they had clearly been fast asleep but I did tell them we would be getting in late. That being said I had put 1am, and it was closer to 2am by this point.

    The room is cute, simple. It had a bigger bathroom than many places I have staying in Australia and it is private. It's a cute little bungalow style thing with an en suite and little balcony. The bed is hard, as expected from asia but I could not be happier. At around $7 a night plus breakfast, I'm thrilled.

    Moni seems a little less happy but then she neglected to tell me this was her first time in Asia. I f I had have known I would have booked somewhere a little nicer for our arrival but it's not that bad and she seemed to be a bit more used to it all after a while.

    I woke around 9am which is alte for me but as we were awake at 2,30am, not too bad. I had completely forgotten about breakfast so was thrilled when the owner asked me what I wanted. An amazing breakfast, seated outside in Bali, with my serial killers book, what more to life is there?    Les mer

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    Campuhan Ridge

    9. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 30 °C

    The Campuhan ridge is a walk from Ubud city centre out into the rice fields a couple kilometres away. The walk itself is shrouded in trees for the most part as you climb up above the river and the city below.

    Campuhan is the convergence of two rivers and it's considered a very sacred location. The walk begins at this convergence and ends roughly 2.5km north overlooking the rice fields and the bottom of Tegalalang.

    Despite the heat the walk was well worth it giving us many views overlooking the city and more rural spots around Ubud.

    The end of the walk is easily identifiable by the tourist shops and cafes. This appears to be a running theme with Bali and not unexpected. Moni and I decided to grab lunch at one of these cafes as it was around 2pm by this point. One of the cafes was highly rated and recommended but we decided to go to the one beside it. The one was chose had bean bags you could sit on and was far more relaxed with a better view. We decided to share a mask gorging and Moni asmitted she had neglected to tell me something.

    This is her first time in Asia. Though she has had asian food before almost everything else is new for her. This is something I could have known before we left and I booked the cheapest accommodation but we can make it work. She has also never tried to live on a budget before so we are experimenting. But then I have never travelled with someone before so this is new to the both of us.

    Our view from the cafe overlooked the rice fields and between my lack of sleep, Balinese music and the serenity of the location I found myself begging to fall asleep.    Les mer

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    Ubud

    9. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 25 °C

    There is something very impactful about cities in Asia. The music, colours and people all combine together to give the city a feeling. I cannot quite explain the feeling but it is similar to the one I feel in Europe. The history combines with the culture and the life to for this beating heart of a city. I had forgotten how much I loved that feeling.

    After our walk along the ridge we returned to the city and explored a little more. We are staying right next to the art markets meaning we have an endless supply of both tacky tourist stuff but also hand made beautiful items. The city is also littered with statues, temples and gateways all so intricately decorated it is astonishing. How the carver is able to get that level of detail from a piece of stone is astonishing. We decided to visit on of these temples and look around before continuing on our exploration.

    Thoroughly exhausted and rather sweaty we returned to our bungalow and had a second shower for the day. We then did a bit for planning and organising for our next couple days before heading our again for dinner.

    We did a bit for a walk around looking at some more of the shops before deciding to eat. Again we had to do a bit of a walk because a lot of places were western food and another of us wanted western food. Finally we found a really cute place with some hanging lanterns and lots of plants. We had Goda-Goda, neither of us were quite sure what it was but it came out as a collection of steamed vegetables with a peanut sauce, tofu and tempeh. It was very good. We also got a side of rice to share to bulk it up a lite and we were on for a winner.

    After dinner we got some frozen yogurt for dessert. It is not something I have had before and it was ok. I proabbly wouldn't choose it again if there were other options. Then just headed back and got in an early night as we are both a little sleep deprived.    Les mer

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    2

    Motorcycle rides

    10. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ 🌧 27 °C

    Ok mum, please dont have a heart attack, you know it would happen.

    Today Moni and I hired a bike from our accommodation to ride around the local area.

    Out first stop was Tegalalang, where we saw the famous rice fields and the swings set up for tourists. Despite the constant screaming, the view was stunning. There is something so luscious about the green fields over here. We decided to have something to eat overlooking the view and relax.

    I cannot see the appeal to swinging over the rice fields but google it and you will see the sort of effort people go to. There is one place that allows you to hire the massive dresses to get that shot. Each to there own but that is not how I like to experience things while travelling.    Les mer

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    Water water everywhere

    10. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ 🌧 28 °C

    Our next stop was the Pura Tirta Empul. This is a sacred temple aligned with the water and purifying. Though it was beautiful I preferred the temple yesterday as it was extremely touristic and there were people everywhere. There were a large number of people bathing in the waters and personally i feel if you are not a practicing Buddist then you should not. But cannot deny it is quite an experience.

    We unfortunately had to exit via the gift shop from Hell. It was a missive winding path that seemed to have no end, with stalls on either side. Some of the owners were shouting at us to buy something and it just ruined the experience a little.

    Our final stop for the day on the bike, was the Bandung waterfall. This is a man made back drop with natural rocks framing the water flow. You are allowed to swim in these waters and we decided to do so as it was really rather hot at this point. The water was a perfect temperature and not too strong, making it a very pleasant place to be.

    After, we headed back into the city as rush hour was beginning and I wanted to avoid it for the most part. We unfortunately did not succeed in that endeavour and ended up having to navigate the roads full of cars, busses and motorcycles. The exact view you think of when you think of Asian roads. It was not fun. But I managed without any real issues except stress. When we got back, I was shaking from adrenaline and needed a sit down to breathe for a moment.

    All in all, it was really fun riding again and kudos to Moni for trusting me to get us around safely. It has also given me some idea of what Vietnam will be like. The road conditions are the scariest parts, one pothole and it's all over. Then there are the other drivers who seem to drive as though they are both invincible and immortal which is completely insane. But really it is a lot easier than I had anticipated.

    Once back we had a rest before heading out for an early dinner. We went to a restaurant that had been recommended. Overall it was ok, but it was pricier than other spots we've seen and the food wasnt amazing like expected. That being said we did have desert and the banana fritters I ordered was divine.

    We wanted to have an early dinner because of our plan for tomorrow!    Les mer

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    Mt Batur

    11. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    Today, Moni and I decided to do one of the least touristy things but with the most tourists.

    So, at the ungodly hour of 1.30am, we rolled out of bed and got ready for our hike.

    Now, Mt Batur is 1,700meters high and we climbed all the way to the peak where a crater now sits. Mt Batur is also classed as an active volcano so we could see smoke and steam rising out of the crater at times.

    We arrived at the 'base camp' for breakfast of a banana pancake and tea at around 3am. At 3,45 we headed to the actual base and began our ascent at 4am. We were each given a flashlight and that was about it. Our guide joined the unending stream of people from top to bottom and we were off.

    The first part was on the road, full of people and cars and altogether rather underwhelming. It had been advertised as a trek up the mountain and I kept having to walk around people of certain demographics (I'm sure you can make a guess at who I mean).

    Thankfully our guide and another joined together as they were friends and created a massive group of 16. All of us were either young or experienced hikers so after a little complaining of 'is this it?' and 'is it just a road?', they resolved to take us the old route that is longer and harder. This route is done less now as they want to make the tourism as accessible as possible. One of the women in for car that picked us up and done this hike twice before and said that before covid it was track from top to bottom. I could tell she was displeased with the changes.

    Our guides were very nice though and seemed to be pleased for this change from the norm as both were more than capable of doing it. Though it meant for a much harder walk, the idea of walking up the road the whole way simply felt wrong.

    The route itself was a dirt track which also catered to dirt bikes taking up people and goods. If I am being honest, constantly having to move to one side to let them through took away from the overall impact of trekking up at mountain pre dawn. However, it was still a lot of fun. And no one hikes predawn for the hike, they go for the view.

    And what a view it was. Indescribable.

    We arrived at the top around 5,50, roughly 1.45hrs after setting off. I was rather please by this as it is supposed to take 2hrs on the road and we went the long way around. Sunrise was set for 6,15 so we got go enjoy the predawn colours before the sunrise itself.

    The entire experience was well worth it but I do not think I would do it again. Though i would like to, that view is unmatched after all. But certain things annoyed me about it. The fact you have to climb the road, there are literally hundreds of people doing it and we only got around 40mins up there. I climbed for 2hrs, I wanted longer. But a once in a lifetime thing and definitely something we would have regretted not doing.

    And that view.    Les mer

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    22

    Coffee plantation

    11. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ 🌧 23 °C

    Once at the bottom of thr mountain again, we thought our driver was taking us back to our accommodation but we were infact incorrect. Instead we went to a coffee plantation.

    When we arrived one of the workers showed us around a little and gave us a bit of info on what they grow and how coffee goes from being green balls on a tree to our mugs.

    She then lead us over to the large seating and dining area overlooking the forest below and told us she would bring over the free samples. This was fantastic news for me, less so for Moni because she hates coffee. But the woman ended up bringing over 14 samples, half of which were actually tea which made Moni much happier.

    They were amazing. A little sweeter than I like but stil amazing. Very fresh and flavourful. My favourite was the turmeric or rosella tea or the Ginseng coffee. All were amazing but those more so for me.

    Kris and tami, the two women who did the hike and car journey with us, kindly let us go to the plantation. They had been to a different one the day before but did not mind looking around for a bit while we drank. Moni was also able to get a lovely photo of me drinking ridiculously, why is my pinky finger out? Why?

    Our driver the kindly returned us to Ubud for 9,45am. Roughly 7.5hrs after leaving. I cannot quite believe it was so long but very worth it.

    Our lovely host offered us breakfast and despite eating a large amount already I am not one to pass up free food and it meant we didnt need lunch.

    I did some journaling and relaxing on the balcony while Moni slept. I wanted to sleep but I hate doing so in the middle of the day as it always leaves me disoriented. So instead I enjoyed the serenity of our little homestead.

    We decided to take an early dinner as we had been awake from 1.30am and headed to a spot I had found online. It was tiny, only just big enough for a table on either side, but almost all of the food was vegetarian and it was amazing. I am not even kidding, sublime. I ordered the Indonesian selection cause I was curious. I did a bit of research on Indonesian food today and found I recognised a few of the dishes but that dinner was incredible. I would have happily paid $25+ for that (£15+). But it was only $2.5! I could not believe it. Moni and I have been to a couple places now and that was not only fbe best but also the cheapest. You literally cannot go wrong. I am also curious if and of you can guess what the foods are and if so, if any are surprises over their origin.    Les mer

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    Day 200

    12. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 28 °C

    Well, well, well, we have made it to day 200. Today was a day of surprises.

    Moni and I had out usual breakfast on the balcony before packing up and checking out. The lovely owner let us leave our bags in one of the rooms so we could go for a bit of a wander around before heading off.

    Out first stop was the Palace. I am once again astonished by the amount of detail put into statues, carvings and structures. The Palace was themed red and gold, creating a fiery atmosphere in the morning sun.

    We then headed to the same place we had had dinner the evening before and grabbed some smoothies to drink as we headed down to the monkey sanctuary. The sanctuary was a small section of forest, full of monkeys and a couple different temples. The monkeys are partially free roaming. They can go where they like but they dont leave the sanctuary because they get food there. You could pay extra to get a selfie with the monkey on your lap. We did not do, this however one did take an interest in Moni. It decided I was not worthy and simply walked over me.

    After the sanctuary we wandered back to our accommodation became the owners had organised our taxi down to Legian, out new accomodation.

    The journey took around 1.5hrs thanks to traffic but our driver was very nice and was a surprisingly carefully driver. We commented on the quantity of dumb tourists on the roads after one sticky situation. He laughed and agreed but said that he loves tourists because they bring money. He helps tourists and they help him. I liked his positive view on it, but I still think tourists on bikes wihtout helments are dumb.

    Our new accomodation in Legian is quite a set up. The room is spacious, air conditioned and provides towels and toiletries. There is also a nice covered balcony and a pool. Everything is green plants or white and pristine.

    We decided to go for a walk around the local area and this is where our day got a little interesting.

    While walking along we spotted a woman who seemed to be staggering and another trying to help. At first we thought it was someone who had overindulged a little too much on a wednesday but then realised there was more going on. A Balinese store seller was also trying to help and the look on his face when he saw us was pure fear. He was like a deer in headlights and we knew something was wrong. We quickly crossed the road and realised the woman was having a seizure.

    Her friend was in near hysterics and kept asking if she was going to die. This was of no help as she clearly had no clue what was happening. Myself and another local managed to get her safely to the floor, while Moni tried to calm the other woman. The friend finally called the daughter to help and slowly the woman seizing came around.

    It took quite some time for her to return to us but by the time the daughter had arrived and they had decided on a taxi, she was almost back to normal. We had a massive group of locals around us who were all trying to help but were not succeeding. Thankfully they all listened when I told them to back up and another two Aussies who came to help backed me up. One of them was a man and as expected, his orders were followed but that is fine.

    It made for a rather unexpected half hour and I was rather shaken afterwards. I know how to handle a seizure because of some of my friends from school who had them. But to witness it is something else, especially on the side of the road in Bali, less than an hour after arriving.

    We hastily returned to our accommodation as it was getting late and I was a little shaken. We relaxed by our pool once back before heading to dinner.

    Dinner was a vegetarian restaurant that had great reviews on food but dreadful on service. The reviews were not wrong but the food was incredible. Not quite as good as last night but almost.

    So overall, a very unexpected and eventful day 200. Who knows what will happen next!    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Rainy days

    13. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C

    Today Moni and I woke in our gorgeous fancy accommodation to breakfast. I had the mie goreng and Moni the yogurt. An excellently relaxed start.

    Unfortunately it began to rain straight after, and when I say rain, I mean monsoon. It was bucketing it down from around 9am until 3pm. So we did the only 3 things that are possible when it is raining; got a massage, relaxed in the room and went in the pool.

    We both got back massages from a lovely place near to where we are staying. The ladies were very nice and we were the one in a million that actually took them up on their offer. The one part of asia that is beginning to exhaust me, the constant assault of offers from everyone about everything. Moni's back had been hurting her for some reason and my back always hurts so it was a good choice.

    Walking to the place was a little treacherous as the rain had flooded the streets which meant we were wading through ankle deep water at times. Thankfully it was clear enough that I wasnt too worried about anything going wrong. And it's all part of the experience after all.

    On the way back we stopped into a shop to grab some snacks for lunch. Neither of us wanted to venture out so we ended up buying pot noodle and ate it our of our coffee mugs. The things you do when you dont want to brave the rain. They were however surprisingly good so I was happy.

    I made Moni come for a bit of a swim in the pool with me while it was raining. I try to do that every time it is monsooning because it just feels so magical being in the pool while it rains around you. Highly recommend to anyone.

    Back in the room we spent the rest of our time relaxing, journaling and reading. We did put on the tv for a bit, yes we have a tv. But the only thing on was the end of the first twilight movie. So obviously be watched that. I cannot quite believe I used to be obsessed with that movie, it is truly awful.

    Finally around 3pm the rain stopped and we decided to go for a walk around so we did something active with our day. Somehow a brief 45min walk to the beach and back became a 2.5hr loop around Legian and into Kuta.

    I cannot quite say I enjoyed the walk. Most of the time we were being shouted at by people trying to sell us things, the beach was covered in rubbish thanks to tourists and the storm that had been happening. And its just not a very nice area.

    It surprised me really. This area is very popular with tourists and is supposed to be 'paradise'. It is not. It is grubby, loud and full of people. I much preferred Ubud. Though it is very similar in most respects, there is history and greenery everywhere. The city is busy but it feels genuine. Legian does not feel like that. I am very glad I am trying different spots because if I had just been here I would not be impressed.

    I did book my accommodation for the next few nights once Moni leaves. I am going to head to Nusa Penida. It is an island off of the main land and it's supposed to have some of the best coastal views in Bali. I have only booked a couple nights there as I will decided how long I want once I am there. You can stay in multiple spots on the island so i may jump around a little or leave after those nights. Who knows.

    We did head out again after our walk for dinner. There is a little alcove of market style food stalls right by our accommodation and 2 of them are known for their vegetarian food. An excellent choice. One of the veggie stalls were offering veggie rendang and I have never been so happy. It had slightly less coconut in that the one mum makes, but it was still amazing. The ladies on the stall were so nice and because everything is cooked in front of you it is so fresh. The area was playing music and there were kids running around, it was exactly the sort of thing I look for when travelling. It was also mostly locals so you know it is good.

    We think we may go there again tomorrow night and try another dish. Moni is struggling a little with the food I think. She has taken to eating basically the same couple dishes every meal. If it works for her then great but I think it is all a little overwhelming for her now it had been a couple days. Perhaps a bit of culture shock.

    Back at our room we ate these little Dutch pancakes we bought from a different stall. They were a very nice dessert. That is the one thing I havent seen much off here, desserts. Perhaps it is not a big part of their cuisine but most of what I've seen has been western.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Beachy vibes

    14. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 28 °C

    The weather held out for us today!

    We awoke fairly early, around 8,30 and prepared for the day with big Dutch pancakes and coffee. Today we planned to go down to the beach and hang out there for a bit.

    Moni decided she wanted to do some surfing, I did not. The waves are very strong here and I doubt I could swim successfully let alone surf. So I decided to hire a sunbed and relax. We ended up hiring a board and 2 beds for 3hrs so we could relax and not have to move.

    Though the waves were calming, the people were not. It is very hard to relax when you have someone trying to sell you something every 5 minutes. I was struggling to stay calm when one woman decided to begin a foot massage without asking me. At that point I decided to go for a walk to calm down. I bought some snacks for the beach and returned.

    The beach itself is ok. Its not very pretty even with some of the rubbish cleared up. A group were collecting all the rubbish and putting it in a big truck when we arrived. But they probably only collected about 80% so there was still a lot. Between that and the quantity of people who would not leave us alone, I wasnt having the best time.

    After about 2.5hrs a massive rain storm moved in. We had been watching it approach so just before it reached us we donned our ponchos and left the beach. Out 30min walk back was almost completely in the rain.

    Once back the rain stopped so we decided to go for another massage before relaxing by the pool. I didnt really want another massage but Moni was in pain so she got a full body one and I got a hand and foot one. My hand is always tense from writing and wearing flip flops is not helping my feet.

    Back at the pool our relaxation was cut short by 2 earth quakes. The first was a 5.8 and you could feel it but it was not bad. But about a minute later another one happened. This one lasted longer and was a 7. You could really feel the earth moving and the water in the pool was sloshing about a lot. Neither of us had experienced an earth quake before so didnt realise what was happening for the first one but definitely felt the second.

    We went back to the small market spot from last night for dinner, as it is very close and good. I got Bakso this time. Not my favourite dish I have tried. The 'meat' was a little rubbery from how it had been cooked and the soup tasted similar to the pot noodle I have had in Australia so that isnt great. But it was still nice.

    Back in our accommodation we went for a night time swim and realised the water is only so warm because of the sun heating it. At night it was a lot cooler.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Sick in paradise

    15. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C

    I really hate my body sometimes.

    This morning I woke with nausea, abdominal pain and hot flushes. I am very used to this but I had hopped it wouldn't happen while I was in Bali. But alas.

    Breakfast was really nice but it made me feel even worse so I spent the entire morning lying in bed trying not to move. Around 1pm I felt marginally better and joined Moni by the pool.

    We then headed out for a bit of a walk to get lunch and I need a book as I have finished mine. Unfortunately, it is about a thousand °c here and we were both melting after about 10seconds. To make it worse, we failed to find either of the bookshops google listed. We headed back to our accommodation as I was not feeling good.

    Back there we went in the pool to cool down and I collapsed into bed again. Spent the next 2hrs in and out of sleep trying not to move before finally giving up and going back to the pool.

    I feel a little bad as Moni hasn't done much today but we both realised we have done all we wanted to do here so are happy to just relax by the pool. The afternoon relax was better as it was a little cooler and the sun had moved.

    I was unable to stomach much food but Ritz crackers have been saving me. I remember they are what saved me in india so bought some for here as well. They taste a little funny but that is probably just me being sick rather than the biscuits themselves.

    We went out for dinner at another veggie restaurant we found on our walk. I ordered a fruit salad, the vietnamese spring rolls and a juice because they had neither dairy or gluten in them. I have noticed when I feel like this, if I avoid those I feel less bad. Not clue if it works but I'll do anything at this point. The salad was ok but I could not eat the sroing rolls. They were literally just cucumber and green paper in rice paper. Not exactly what I was expecting.

    Moni leaves tomorrow and I am not quite sure how I feel about it. I am looking forward to a bit of alone time, and leaving Legian because I do not like it. But I am going to miss having someone to talk to about anything and everything all day.    Les mer

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  • Amelia WilkinsonThis side of thingsReisende

    Final day

    16. april 2023, Indonesia ⋅ ⛅ 28 °C

    Moni left me today. I was far from pleased.

    We woke, had our usual breakfast outside together. This morning it was savoury crepes. Despite all my travels, I have never had a savoury crepe before and was pleasantly surprised. The get was nice and runny, there was cheese in it that I didnt like so much but still lovely.

    Moni then decided to head to the beach again and do another hour of surfing. I did not want to move as it was already boiling and I was kind of sick of people. So I stayed behind, did some booking of stuff and relaxed by the pool after packing.

    She returned a little after lunch so we decided to head out to the market and pick up some food. I found a cheesecake icecream for $1 so had to buy that and got some more sugar in the form of a Sprite. I am well aware that my diet isnt great right now. Between the fried food, carbs and snacks it isnt great, but when on holiday.

    We then spent the rest of the day by the pool and enjoyed our final hours together.

    For dinner we went back to the little market area but our usual was closed so we had too go to a different one. We got the profiterols again to share and some speing rolls. The food was fine but as it took over an hour to come we weren't best pleased. Moni had to get our taxi to the airport so were a little worried but it did finally arrive in time.i would give the food maybe a 3/10 which is not exactly how we wanted to end our trip.

    Moni then left for her flight and I tried not to get depressed. I always hate this part of travelling, when your alone once more. I've had probably one of my favourite weeks so far travelling with Moni and I'm really going to miss her. I had to do it alone again now. It's so tiring travelling alone.    Les mer

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