Odds and ends post Borneo

We are spending a few days, post Borneo, in Bali so a few additional thoughts and observations:  

Coffee-- Indonesian coffee is ground to a fine powder and stirred into the hot water -- no filtering.  Some of  you know we brought our lexan French press which did make a big difference in the amount of grounds we actually consumed.  Here in Bali, they grow coffee and the most famous (and expensive) is Luwak coffee made from beans that have been eaten by a Asian palm civit, then excreted, cleaned thoroughly and roasted.  (most expensive coffee in the world).  Frankly, I am quite satisfied with the Starbucks I buy at home, so was not even tempted.  And I have had just enough "poop" experience this trip as it is.  Fermentation occurs in their gut which creates more free amino acids -- therefore less acidic.  

Snails-- They are everywhere.  This morning spotted one on the legs of our breakfast table and in Borneo, we had them in and on the squat toilet, the windows, the floor of the bathroom and boxes of toothbrushes (fortunately in wraps).

We had a great evening send-off with the Borneo bunch -- treated some 24 of the clinic crew to supper for all of $40.  We then got hugs from everyone, even the doctors for Lauri.  We will miss their laughter, ready smiles and afternoon "birthday" cappuccino's.  Their dedication is an inspiration to both of us.

Bali is beautiful with mountains, beautiful valleys, tiered rice paddies and a ton of temples (90% HIndu).  But... the traffic is horrible and the crowds (even though it's not peak season) are bad here in Ubud.  Guess we are ready to come home.  We will be here for Nyeti (annual Hindu celebration) where they totally quiet for an entire day to make the evil spirits think Bali is deserted -- everything stops (no flights, nothing open, you stay in your hotel).  That day is preceded by large parades in the evening of these paper mâché ghastly creatures that are being built as we speak and after the parades are burned.  We expect that to be fascinating.  Because of this Hindu event, the temples were a  mass of people praying and milling about yesterday.

And...just to make this Bali stay more interesting, we both got sick last night (who knows from what) and this after Lauri was crowing about how she managed to stay well throughout our time in Borneo, while the weaker member of the family had succumbed to tourista early on.  Guess there is poetic justice after all.

We had planned a bike tour today, but will delay that until tomorrow,  Then, a couple of more days and we are on our way home.  Thanks to all of you for your interest in reading our emails and blog.  Your occasional responses have been greatly appreciated -- especially after a night of battling ants.

Jim