We were there for my sister’s wedding and then stayed on for another 2 weeks travelling around making the most of a full family holiday (not in any way remotely linked to a paddling event 😉).

We rode scooters everywhere; snorkel dived reefs and lagoons; explored mangroves by kayak; surfed, surfed some more; cycled through rice paddies; white water rafted valleys; went to an array of beaches….oh…we surfed (did I mention that)? But mostly, as a family (core and extended) – we just hung out together enjoying each other’s company, and just being together.

Nusa Lembongan…
The week of the wedding was amazing. Travelling to and arriving at Lembongan is an experience in itself. When you get to the island with no cars (scooters and buggies only) it’s just a daily routine of adventure and discovery. There is so much to do and experience – surfing, snorkeling hiking, kayaking, scootering, rock jumping, restauranting…It’s a complete hoot!
To see my sister and Aden finally getting married (and playing a part of the ceremony) was super special and truly blessed. The company of family and friends present really made it unforgettable. The venue, literally on the beach…was just suberb!

Ubud and Uluwatu…
Then the two weeks apres-wedding was filled with adventures! From checking out monkeys in the sanctuary to searching for waterfalls via white water rafting; from visiting rice paddies on bicycle to haggling vendors in the market – there was hardly an idle moment for the 4 days spent in Ubud. Quiet afternoons were spent around the pool, swimming, reading and ordering milkshakes and burgers from the bar INSIDE the pool 😉.

We then went back to the sea and spent a week in Uluwatu, overlooking the most incredible surfing mecca I have ever experienced. Kilometres of perfect waves suited to any level of surfer, every day the same perfect line-ups and friendly crowds. Our days consisted of visiting beaches, scootering around, visiting more beaches and then enjoying picture perfect sunsets as a family and with friends.

Our last evening in Bali was spent among the Kuta craziness. Certainly something to experience, but not for more than a day or two that I can assure you! We went for a walk and, in keeping with the practice of spontaneity we cultivated during our stay, we took a sunset sundowner cruise out through some surfing reefs and went plane watching. A great ending to a perfect holiday.

To my sister Annetjie and brother in law Aden Kleve – congratulations and thank you that we could be part of this journey!
To our family old and new – thank you for the most amazing time. 
To our friends at the wedding, old and new – keep it real, and keep frothing.

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