Bali High

Yay! I’m in Bali and LOVING it! It’s so lush and green like Hawaii (why did I leave again?) but with more zest and heaps less expensive! The architecture, carvings, stone work everywhere is just SO amazing. I’m based in Ubud which is an artist colony and bursting with crafts, music, dance, street markets and food. All the shops are filled with such beautiful handmade clothes, jewelry, woodwork, etc. Over the past few years, I’ve been spending less money on “things” because I’m always traveling and want to live as lightly as possible but damn! There’s just so much cool stuff here and cheap! Here’s a verrrrry valuable piece of advice I wish I had known before I left Oz – travel with the clothes on your back, a bathing suit and an empty suitcase. That’s it – I swear. Oh and maybe your favorite toiletries. Wish I had. Ah well, it’s probably for the best that I don’t have much room in my luggage. I will however be picking up some summer dresses, a sarong, and a bikini or two.

I’m staying at a place called Jati 3 in the center of town. It costs US$15 per night with a/c, breakfast and tax. What a deal! Granted it’s not perfect – the water pressure is low and I’ve spotted some ants (can’t imagine a place without when you live in “open” housing) – but I can deal with it if it means being able to stay longer in Bali. Just to compare, when I landed in Brissie, I stayed at a hostel for $25 a night and it was a “prison cell” compared to where I am now. Seriously, it had a lumpy single bed and sink in the corner with a co-ed shared bath. LOL. Actually, I’m not too particular where I stay as long as it’s clean and safe.

Here are some pics of my room and view from my deck (click to enlarge.) Tomorrow I’ll post pics of the Saturday organic market.