Welcome to Bali, Ibu Camren

That’s what they call me here. Ibu Camren, Ibu Christy, or just Ibu, which literally means mother, but in practice is like saying Miss or Mrs. It’s less formal though, friendlier. Welcome to Bali…

This is my third of four nights here and it has been a whirlwind – lounging on the beach, trekking through the “jungle”, watching craftsmen at work, eating strange and wonderful foods, and meeting wonderful people.

On the surface Bali is different than I expected. There is garbage and smoke and so many cars and motorcycles on narrow streets that I’m really quite amazed that we haven’t been involved in at least one accident. And while they’re not quite what I expected to find here, they’re all a part of Bali and are exciting and different and still a great part of this amazing experience.

The Bali I imagined is here, too. I’ve seen quiet villages and farmers tending their rice paddies or watching over their cows, children laughing, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

It helps that I’ve got “connections” and great people taking care of me here.  I’ve been staying with Aman Resorts at Amanusa, Amandari and tomorrow, Amankila. As soon as I got off the plane and stepped foot on Bali I was greeted with a friendly smile and a “Welcome to Bali Ibu Camren”. I was escorted past the immigration line, which can be more than an hour long, and my visa was obtained while I waited for my luggage. Then it was off to the parking lot where an air-conditioned van was waiting with a cold cloth and cold drinks.

And that was just the first 30 minutes. It’s gotten more amazing each day.

Check back if you want to read more about my trip to Bali, and the cruise afterwards. I’ll try to post a few more times while I’m gone and add more details when I return home.

And, just in case you’re feeling sorry for me because I have to work while I’m here, here’s my view.

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