Off to Elephant Safari in the Jungle

Hi Everyone,

We had a great day yesterday.  We decided to have a rest day after our long journey the day before.  We browsed through the markets for a while and were invited in to see how they make batik wall hangings and tablecothes. It was really interesting to see their set up.  They work so.. hard in such small confinements.  After that we hung out at the pool and read for abit.  It was the hottest day so far.  We caught the shuttle bus at 12:30 to the Royal Pita Maha.  A sister hotel to ours but much more lush.  We were greated by warm,smiling faces of the Balinese and escorted to our lunch table which overlooked the Ayung gorge.  The view was breath taking.  The building was in Marble with large collumns.  Only the Japanese stay here.  it is too expensive.  They have little villa's with priate pools.  Only $500.US per night.  After lunch we took a tour of the property.  We needed to take two elavators and 75 steps to get to the bottom.  It was well worth it.  There was no one around.  We walked through the gardens and I swam in the Lagoon pool.  Dad struck up conversation with a little Balinese worker as they are always willing to talk and ask where you are from. I also had a dip in the Holy pool.  Only women who do not have their monthly period are allowed to swim in the holy pools.  It was a gorgeous day and I enjoyed it so much I am going back on Saturday for Yoga and a therapeutic massage.  In the evening, our hotel put on a traditional Balinese buffet and dance/ballet.  We had front row seats, It was amazing to watch.  We are off now for another day of trecking and an elephant dafari in the jungle followed by a tour of the beaches in the south of the island.  Hope all is well back home.  Until next time.

Cathy and Larry