It was so hard to get excited about this trip before hand as everyone said we should not go and take the kids. We stopped talking about it and telling people we were going to Bali. But i am glad we did.
I cant beleive that we have been back 3 weeks now and I am just getting the time to write this. I feel like I have never been away.
We left on boxing day and got back on the 22nd Jan I think. Stayed the whole time at the Melasti Beach Resort where we have stayed before. Up until New Years there seemed to be a few people in the hotel but within a few days it was empty 10% occupancy which is about 90 guests. The staff there so far have not lost their jobs or any time but a few of the resturants in the area like Rhum Jungle my favorite the staff are down to 3 days a week. I beleive things will get worst before it gets better again. It breaks my heart to see the Beach Sellers sitting day after day with no one even coming to talk to them. My husband said I did my best to single handedly try and support all of them. I think I bought enough kids tee shirts to last until they have kids.
Some of the Highlights of the trip
Going to see the kids we sponsor and the great work Noel and the guys have done in the school SD3. Very rewarding.
Spending quality time with local beach sellers not just buying stuff but actually talking to them for hours on end. My son who is 16 has made some lasting friendships with them.
Going a a trip with Bali Buggys Fantastic but very expensive and they would not discount.
Going on the Oceanflyer to Lembongan island.
I guess it does not matter what we did or saw. We had a great trip again and were safe and glad we went. What matters now is we all support Bali and its people and keep going back like we will.I need to do some work now so until next trip We love Bali