As posted earlier, we have been on vacation. We went to Bali and stayed in Ubud, the cultural center of the island. Our place was nestled within rice fields with a river running right in front of our villa. No TV, miles from the town it was a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.

We treated ourselves to a spa session, candle light dinner, a trip to the vulcanoes, visits to temples and some food poisoning thrown in for good measure. Nicole that is... but she is alright now. I looked kinda funny with a sorong. I guess I prefer a kilt.

The climate is really nice with a bit of a chill in the evenings. People are really friendly and helpful while the landscape is just breathtaking. As for the beach, don't ask us, as we stayed away from the busy places with all the binge drinkers. What we have seen is rice, rice and more rice. Brown, white, black, before, while and after harvest.

The funniest bit is the currency as two pieces of clothing can cost you more than a million. And we are talking non-label clothing. You just can't get rid of that stuff as every time you pay for something, you get a dozen notes back. My wallet is still swollen.

By the way, Jetstar airways now provides food on the trip between Singapore and Bali.