The first place that we stopped was at a Balinese Family Compound (or homes). I had always wondered what was behind those gates and now I now. It is one of the most tranquil places I have ever been to. The noise from the busy streets is hushed the minute you walk through those gates. The compound we visited housed six people. The Grandmother, Son, Daughter-in-law and their children. Everything is communal, eating, cooking, sleeping, and worship. Bali is a majority Hindu population who are gentle kind people and that kindness and happiness is felt wherever you go in Bali.
The next place we visited was a wood carving factory. We watched as the tradesman carved beautiful art from a simple piece of wood, either mahogany, sandalwood or crocodile wood.
After the factory it was on to lovely Laka-Leki Restaurant in Ubud for dancing and craft displays followed by one of the best meals we have ever eaten off the ship while on tour. The dancers of all ages performed the Pendet Dance (the traditional welcome dance), the Rabbit Dance and the Butterfly Dance.
We were back on board the ship for our departure time of 2.00 pm from Bali. Tonight on board the ship at 6.00 pm was the Block Party where everybody comes out of their suites and congregates in the hallway to meet your neighbours. Wine and canapés are served by the staff and the Captain and Cruise Director go from floor to floor to meet every single person on board. That's quite a feat! It's a great tradition that Regent have created and a terrific way to meet your fellow passengers.
We had a lovely dinner tonight in Compass Rose. I chose the Roast Vegetable Samosa with grilled Tofu followed by Grilled Scallops on a bed of pureed artichoke with a rich tomato sauce. It was so light and delicious and I didn't go to bed with a stomach ready to burst!
Tomorrow we will be on Komodo Island to hopefully catch a glimpse of the fearsome Komodo Dragons.
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