After a hectic week at work while also project managing a bunch of tradies, I'm fleeing the country to return to the place I discovered drift snorkeling, because I'd like some more of that please. There will also be some yoga, lots of reading and a bit of football watching.
We have reached this part of the clothing transition from Canberra winter to equatorial island.
Arrived safely and on time. Stayed at this lovely place near the harbour before my short ferry ride over to Nusa Lembongan this morning. There is time for a swim and a massage.
This is a pretty old boat, with an overpowering smell of petrol and no lifejackets in sight. It's only a short hop but I'm nervous.
I survived the journey, the Socceroos are ahead, and the game is on in the bar at my hotel. Life is good.
I noticed it yesterday but after a full day, I'm struggling to breathe.
Last year, looking over at Bali, 20km away, I saw dozens of trash fires along the coast.
This year, the air is so thick that I can't even see Bali.
I have 3 nights in Ubud booked at the end of the week. Now, I'm thinking of going the opposite direction to find some breathable air.
The Balinese govt is trying to fix its enormous waste problems, but so far it's just led to more burning.
I hope they find solutions quickly, for the sake of the locals' lungs, and because the tourism jobs will start disappearing if they don't.
#Bali
https://www.surfer.com/news/bali-smoke-emergency-surf-travel
Jonny Ell
Jude🇵🇸