Just the words conjures up distant jungle drums and Indiana Jones outrunning poison tip darts. Not so romantic in reality. Like moving around on flat tires with a low grade fever. The unfortunate thing is that I will be unable to function for most of the time in Singapore.

The blog is on hold. My brain is on hold. I am praying that it passes through quickly with no after effects.

On the flight from Bali to Singapore and still not sure if I had something contagious. Was pleased to see Sheri was able to snap this as she was having a good laugh

February 13 and 14Mangosteen

Sheri’s brother Pastor Wade has a wedding near Ubud so we’re dropped there to be tourists. Before we leave home it’s back in the pool and then to a Warung like yesterday’s cause it’s a cheap and easy meal. Almost 90 minutes riding north offers a chance to see a lot of congestion as towns blend into towns. Ample evidence that this is the 4th most populated country.

We visit a few temples and I try to take pictures looking like I’ve got the place to myself. There’s a lot of construction going on in Ubud and you can see that the standards vary between projects. Hand labor and bamboo supports makes it look as if time has stopped.

Walking to the monkey temple we decided not to go in cause there were so many monkeys outside. Every day people touring the inside are bitten. We watch an unwary tourist get too close to the “cute little guy ” and her plastic bag gets ripped open. We also saw a lot of evidence that they are committed to increasing their number and saw the results. With no threats there is talk to cull the over population.

We walk to the Palace Temple to buy tickets for the Indonesian dance show and then we wander around looking for a place to eat. Debating too much on the many options when you’re hungry is never good and we finally are seated enjoying drinks and dinner.

The show is a blend of traditional dances and some story numbers. The band rings out the rhythm and the wind and string instruments fill in the sounds that you have probably heard. Nothing that I’ll be singing soon but it goes with the the dancing and crazy eyes.

On Friday after a similar start we head out of town into another world for us. The destination is the Water Blow (blowhole) in Nusa Dua. For those who wish to miss the less desirable areas one can come in from the airport on the new over water toll road which connects to a bypass and leads into a palatial roundabout. Welcome to the world of golf courses and overpriced opulence complete with guards and gates. The trip out to their spout is pretty but like the roaring spout blowhole of Tenants Harbor, Maine if the tides not right it ain’t gonna blow. It is so hot that moving an idea in your mind creates sweat so back into the cars AC.

Wades google map shortcut tests the metal of driver and vehicle as the small road changes and we dive in and over stone gorges. The three dirt bike riders we were following stopped and gave us an approving smile when we emerged onto the road.

A bit shaken we arrive at Uluwatu Temple. Their policy is that all wear a their purple sarong if knees are showing. This cliff side Temple provides many great photos and has monkeys that steal things. The caretakers give them fruit as they return each item. Sounds like rewarding bad behavior….smart monkey 🐒.

The final stop is to a resort along the southern coast called The Edge (google this!). The general manager Brendon is a friend and a Christian who attends their church. He meets us and escorts us through this stunning cliff side resort. We visit the spa, the cliff side balcony with glass floor panels and while walking between the pools we’re handed the welcome iced mint drink.

We are escorted to a open cliffside spot to gaze over the ocean and watch as hangliders and eagles soar on the building sea breezes. This boutique hotel serves 18 suites and a number of day guests. We are cleared to swim in the glass bottom pool that cantilevers out a dozen feet over the cliff. Soon we are dry enough to enjoy dinner on the raised gazebo. What a special treat we’ve had as Wade guides the chariot back to reality….

The flight from Australia seemed longer because it was in the dark and we had to do circles at the end before we touched down in the land of Bali blues in the middle of the pouring rain.

After going through a line, a line and a line it’s out to the horde of drivers with specific people signs and taxis wanting anyone. Sheri spots Paula, her sister-in-law, who is full head taller than the surrounding sign holders. She directs us through the gauntlet and to her brother, Wade, waiting at the SUV. The 5 hours on a plane etc etc is catching up and though local time is 10:30pm my Oz clock is 12:30am. Wade is adept at threading this beautiful tank through and around everything and into the garage. Sleep…

We learn, through God tales, that the two story home and car are theirs to use for now. In the Bible James says that “you do not have because you do not ask” and when housing and transportation were asked for this was provided. At some point this will change but we are happy to share in his blessing to them.

Wade and Paula came back to Indonesia so Wade could Pastor a Church that had lost its vision. Their comfortable way of engaging with all they meet has been the foundation for rebuilding the congregation. They are creating a refuge in this physical and societal congestion that people can touch heaven through hearing and doing Bible truth. Good on ya guys!

We wake to the sound of a rooster that sounds like a horse at the end of his crowing. Leaving the bedroom AC we confront the humidity. I think How will my hair look…ok not a big issue.

We have a plan to relax after running around three countries in 40 days. We get lunch at Warung Kecil which is a small restaurant or their version of a diner. Warung is Indonesian for small restaurant. We all eat an assorted plate and the grand total is about 7.50us. Next stop is the spa cause that’s how we pass the day away in the merry old land of…

An elephant in the middle of an intersection with the disco sign on the store behind shows the constant cultural clash

some extra wire just in case really happy or scary…not sure I always appreciate a salesman …I bought a pack of the thingamajigs.Wade takes me to get my money exchanged and we stop by and see a circular tablet that has the oldest inscription in Bali. Everything seems to be parked next to or behind temples…There’s lots of temples.

I am handed the bill for my hour and a half massage and Sheri’s hour massage and pedicure w/paint and with tip it’s just under 400,000 (just over 27us). Dinner beachside costs us just over 10.00us. OK you get the message that you can get by very nicely on not a lot of money.

Here’s a half million. But when a water at a Restaurant can cost 14,000 it goes quickly.

I think 🤔 another massage would be great!

The Port Douglas sunrise is underway by the time we get to the beach and climb up to the Trinity Bay Lookout. Laundry done and off to Cairns. We stop on the side of the road for some unscheduled marriage maintenance. I don’t care who you are there is only so much small car living that a body can handle. We’re all better again! Just in time cause unbeknownst to us my credit card was stuck to the inside of the dryer so we get to come back and leave again. Good on you guys for finding it!

Leaving Port Douglas (take two) I notice something in the trees. The flying foxes have taken up residence in a few trees. Hanging in the midday heat it’s a symphony of screaming & cackling along with waving wings… and a little stink.

The road winds south between ocean vistas and rainforest hills. Pulling into a beach car park the red Warning sign speaks of all the crocodile hazards. Sheri goes the opposite way and for the next half hour I poke along the ocean shore and the fresh water river 200 feet in from the ocean. I proceed carefully especially after seeing the tracks but no luck. Or luck depending on your perspective.

We have one more night in Australia. Our pie shaped room in a circular apartment house on the landing path of the airport works just fine.

Since were not keen on hanging around in the morning we spend our last day driving up into the southern tablelands. Crater Lake National Park and Millaa Millaa Waterfalls each have special features that help to make a very nice last day.

Return car…check. Line up and check in. Check. Buy an overpriced airport dinner….well done ✅

Remember you Americans…no jumping on the furniture.

Flight #7 for those who know my penchant in terra firma. Viya con Dios!

From 36,000 feet you can see where the swollen rivers draw the dark sediment into the ocean. In just over two hours we are past the floodwaters and back on track. Hyundai powered we head out of Cairns and up into the tablelands. We visit a waterfall at a hydroelectric plant first then further up river for bigger waterfalls and tropical rainforests. We are amazed at the diversity in this tableland area.

Barrons Falls makes its own clouds Rainforest walk is a UNESCO World Heritage site Golden Drop Winery bananas covered on the tree A view from the tablelandsA stop at a 17500 tree mango farm and winery was great. Wine and mangoes in hand we wind down the mountain road into the ocean side town of Port Douglas. Soon poolside with mango chunks in the wine we can look forward to snorkeling the reef.

We’re all prepped and gathered with the other 17 now boarding the 60 foot power catamaran Wavelength. We average a comfortable 22 knots on the 90 minute trip. Reef briefing complete we are in the water at the first of three sites.

Some of the standout sights are giant clams that sit partially open revealing bright colors, green turtles, sting rays, octopus, squid, blue and green coral, schools of bright blue fish, towering coral with plates reflecting the shimmering sunlight, a Nemo running around the anemone, and a few thousand fish swaying in the current and nibbling on the reef. OK I am sure I missed something….

There is a lot going on out there and I am often like a family circus cartoon floating about. The blast of the horn calls me back and I remember again that I am not a fish 🐠.

February 5-6-7-8 (Come on catch up)

We’re used to getting plans changed by weather when on the boat but not on land. The rain started a week earlier further north and now the news crews assemble the what and why Townsville is so flooded.

We stop and visit the Mary Poppins statue in the town where the writer was born. We’re practicing our snapping so we can get our job of traveling done easier!

Rainy sign shows Koala crossing areaWe are packing up in Deception Bay on the 5th when we get the message that our place two nights ahead was flooded and the owners evacuated. It was sad for them and inconvenient for us. We evaluate the news and press on. Perhaps by the distraction of the news or a senior moment we’ve driven two and a half hours north without my charge cards or cash. Turning around we add 5 hours of driving to the day. A simple drive to Gin Gin became an all day ride with the added concern of driving rural lands after dark without a ‘Bull Bar’ to protect the car from animal strikes.

Driving through Childers we drove under trees in the center of town to a deafening sound of these birds at dusk. The cleaning lady at the genuine hotel opened her bag to reveal a baby wallaby that she why is caring for. She rescued a lot of baby animals whose moms are hit or shot.Gin Gin is a small rural town on the A1. We watch and listen to the parade of N/S trucks from our hotel and give no thought to the highway being closed. Our next stop is on the southern edge of the Great Barrier Reef. This is a holiday park, 3.5 hours north, with water slides, pools and grills that we enjoy before the rains and wind. The grill here is a stainless cooktop slightly angled to a center drain and we’re told it’s the most popular style of grill. Though easy to clean I miss the grate style.

We “what if-d” the early morning away until we called our location we hoped to be in two nights, Mt Surprise, were told that you can’t get here from there. All alternatives were closed and as we were reviewing this news the highway was closed by flooding in another spot even closer to us. Recalculating…

By 11 am we are headed south into a new plan. Two new hotel reservations for going back to Brisbane, a flight to Cairns and a new rental car. Stress…sure….but we get to see an area we had to miss coming north.

Hervey Bay is very nice laid back second home vacation area. The beach with its crab sand designs and bright colored birds, the views out to Fraser Island and visiting with the host made it special.

Friday morning the 8th and after looking around the waterfront and marina it’s off for a walking tour of Brisbane. This is the 4th time I’ve driven this stretch of highway and each time my mind has had a different focus.

Brisbane has a fantastic walking downtown area. They built a swimming area with multiple pools and sand beaches along the river. Foot paths and pedestrian bridges lead us to botanical gardens. A nice afternoon but we’re a bit frayed and happy to be getting back on track.

We start the day with sunrise at Harry’s lookout. The further north we go later the sun rises so it’s easier to do. Soon we have said our goodbyes and are off to Deception Bay. We pass through Byron Bay and Cape Byron Light which is the easternmost point of Australian mainland. As we head north to the equator the landscape has switched to bananas and sugarcane. We pass quickly through Brisbane not knowing the important role that city would play in our plans.

This dog rode the twists and turns by shifting its weigh. When the truck would stop he’d run back and forth.

Byron Bay and Cape Byron Light Two nights in one place will allow us to spend a full day at The Australian zoo. I prepare tonight’s and tomorrow’s dinner while Sheri gets a swim in. Then we prepare for a day to meet the animals.

oWe arrive just after the opening at 9 and quickly the mission of this place is clear. The vision that Steve Irwin had is that experience and understanding are enhanced by contact and this is lived out by the staff. They stand at intersections with an array of animals to see and touch. We get an introduction to tortoises, Sea Otters, birds of prey and crocodiles through demonstrations and a big show.

The different lands showcase these animals in an environment where they can be comfortable with the public watching and at times interacting with them. By 4:30 most of the small visiting crowd is gone and we get to spend some quiet time interacting with the kangaroos. It was nice.

All around the park are pictures of Steve Irwin and his family. His history is in this place and his presence is strong. We leave having seen Australian icons the Dingo,Tasmanian Devil, Wombat, Echidna, Kookaburra and cockatoo (amongst others). I usually don’t spend much time in zoos but this was different and their message of conservation is important.

We have been watching the news as days of rain has been flooding towns north of us but it is not till tomorrow that the impact comes home.

2/7 (out of date sequence)

Due to weather this morning we turned back south and changed our plans. We are backtracking from Kinka Beach back to Brisbane and then flying into Cairns. There has been a front that dropped a years worth of rain in just a few days in the Townsville area. One of our Airbnb’s was flooded and the owners evacuated.

This morning as we were trying to figure out how to proceed another closure to the main NS route A1 was posted. There was no reliable way to know when the water might recede so we recalculate. Returning and replacing the car, getting 2 new nights booked and plane flights confirmed took half the day.

We ended tonight in Hervey Bay and tomorrow Brisbane with an early flight Saturday. Should be back on track for our last few days in Oz.

Found a new friend this evening

I start the day with a brisk walk to the car rental shop 20 min away. To my pleasure they did not have the vehicle I had ordered so they upgraded me to a Kia hatchback that is a full 2 inches larger… Let’s go!

Soon we are heading out of Sidney across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and up toward the Blue Mountain National Park. Low clouds keep us from visiting the three sisters look out but our stop at Wentworth Falls was a true pleasure. The fog makes the overhead enclosures on the cliff side a bit cave like with drips of water from the dew.

Fans of Avatar will recognize what happened when I walked by this treeOccasionally the clouds would lift allowing for peaks down into the canyon that holds the falls. As we travel down toward Mudgee the clouds lift enough so that we can enjoy a beautiful view of the largest canyon in the world. Going further west the hills flattened out and we head into another wine country.

We learned our host works as a winemaker in a organic winery in town. He moved from Sydney to work out in the country. We enjoyed our stay in his granny flat out back and the occasional visit from his little dog who knows that we’re having dinner.

In the morning we are headed off as far west as the car rental agents will let you go. We pass some Emus and large coal mines. Then east through farm country into the Hunter Valley wine region. Sheri research provides our stop at a beautiful hilltop vineyard with a free tasting and cheese plates. We always leave with some larger samples to enjoy later.

On the way to Port Macquarie one thing stands out and that’s the roads are getting better; straighter and two lanes. I missed good roads. We arrive at our next place which is a room in a place owned by a woman who came from S Africa 28 years ago. A German woman has been in Australia for over 20 years has the other room. I had some initial concerns reserving a place where other renters would be staying and sharing the common space but it worked out very well.

We have good political discussions about issues of the day and they see our Pres as the businessman he is cause they have politicians too!

I can’t make this stuff up…it’s a small world after all.

Finally driving at dawn or dusk can be pretty dangerous with all the kangaroos, Koala and wombats crawling in the way. Cars, small trucks and especially large trucks are outfitted with a frame across the front. Some measure of protection into the night.

This grumpy old guy is Winter….I don’t miss himAll this walking after the 4 hour flight exhausted us and helped us sleep in a stuffy un air conditioned room. The night time road construction 4 stories below meant the window needed to be kept closed. In the morning the adjacent breakfast room made it easy to get coffee and food. We also met an English couple there headed out on their 54th cruise.

The South side of the Harbor entrance is guarded by Hornby Lighthouse We made the 10:30 ferry to Manly Beach. This trip allows us to see the bridge and Opera House from the water and get a chance to travel the full length of the Bay. The beach is very nice but because of rip currents swimming was restricted within a 200 ft area. In this heat it only takes a short time to dry/burn and soon we are watching everything from a shaded bench.

Sheri is the small dot on the right about to get overtaken Manly yes beach that isThe return ferry passing North Head regular or America’s Cup it’s all good sailingWe are apprehensive about getting back to the 102 degree city but we need to prep for dinner and the opera. We thought since it is the Sydney Opera House we should see an opera. Clean and dressed in our best backpack clothes we head for dinner. We chose a respected steak restaurant because they serve kangaroo. So we hop on over… couldn’t resist.

The Shish kebab is kangaroo Come on get outta the way I’m late we made itI put a sticker on the map in the Opera House lobby for CamdenLeaving our great dinner I got turned around so our a simple 10 minute stroll became a frantic 20 minute dash…arriving with 7 minutes to spare. La Bohemian was done well and since I watched it on the plane I even knew what was going on. The Italian production had a subtitle screen though it was tough to see both simultaneously. At intermission we looked out the huge windows onto the harbor and bridge.

Walking back home humming Musetta’s Waltz (theme from Moonstruck) this was a good day. Not even the bad noises coming in the window from the city night could erase the day…. but the guy at 2 am in the hall was in the running!

Sydney is a bustling place filled with handsome 20 and 30 something’s filling the city with a pace that makes for a nice visit….but we’re glad to move along.