We're now in Maninjal- a small village nestled by the side of a lake in a volcanic crater. The landscape makes for a beautiful setting and it is incredibly peaceful here. Yesterday we hired a motorbike and rode around the lake (70km) taking in the scenery and fresh air as we went. We also rode to the top of the crater up a rather bendy road which gave good views back out over the lake. Yesterday there were celebrations for independance day. On the way up to the lip of the crater we saw the locals entertaining themselves with slippery pole climbing- a simple but quite entertaining game.
We stayed 5 nights in Bukittingi in the end. It was a nice small town and we went on a tour of the local area to see the views, historic buildings and arts and craft type stuff. The people in Sumatra are (on the whole) more easy-going than than those in Bali and Java as well as being friendlier and politer. We did have one little toerag send us the wrong way when we were trying to walk from Bukittingi to Koto Gadang. He then followed us until we were looking lost and then offered his services as a guide for Rp100000. Needless to say we didn't take him up on this and went back to Bukittingi. Apart from that and a spot of food poisoning which rendered us out of action for a day it has been a pretty good week.
Tomorrow we head back South in search of rainforest, tigers and the rare Indonesian Rhino in the National Way Kambas.
Still no photos I'm afraid- maybe in Jakarta in a week or so.
xx Matt xx
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3 comments:
I guess it would be surprisng if there weren't some differences between the parts of such a diverse and disparate nation. You're certainly having some great experiences - and (nearly) as much time still to come!
XXX Dad
PS Saviour needed at Priestfield - come back soon!
Hi babe
Sounds like u r seein all the sites. still wish i was there wid u..Im off on my hols 2moz but i feel mine may involve alot more beer drinkin than site seein..
take care babe and i will talk when i get bk.
Loads of love
Becky xxxxx
I hope when you hire a bike you are not relying too much on Em to do the navigating. Remember she gets left and right muddled, it could be disasterous!!Hope the bali belly has settled down, if not metronidazole is a good bet and I believe cheap and widely available. I'll stop doing my worried mum bit now! Just stay safe and enjoy yourselves. Big hugs Mum XXX
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