Yes that’s Ulf brushing his teeth in the pool…
Huu Bar, Seminyak
I visited Flores (one of the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia), with friends from Australia and Germany. Our main interest was in the diving but we ended up taking away more experiences from the people and the unique circumstances that its capital Maumere and surrounding communities offered.
Christian Influence
Portuguese traders and missionaries came to Flores in the 16th century and their influence remains. There are numerous missionaries, churches and a seminary spread across villages and townships. They peacefully co-exist with the Muslim communities that also inhabit this area of Flores.

Diving
We were unlucky to have terrible weather which obviously affected our diving experience. Even with that taken into consideration, it was clear that the reefs had been destroyed due to the destructive practice of local fishermen using bombs to fish and the after effects of a devastating tsunami in 1992.
Accommodation
Babi (Pig) Island
On December 12, 1992, an earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale and the in suing tsunami wiped out 2,500 people including the vast majority of the residents on this island. The remaining 30+ people who survived were out fishing or visiting the main. We dropped in on the island after our morning dive so we could get some shelter and have lunch.
A graceful elderly couple invited us into their home where we shared lunch and a chat via our dive master, William.
Seaside Village
Smiling Children
A group of friends and I took the long weekend holiday to visit Belitung, an island on the east coast of Sumatra (approx 1 hour by plane from Jakarta). The island lived up to its reputation for stunning white beaches and clear turquoise coloured waters. We were fortunate to see dolphins on our boat outing which took us to a few of the small islands and reef formations just off from the cottages we stayed at.
Bali is perhaps the default choice for most people living in Jakarta for the Christmas/New Years holiday break. I spent a short week there with a group of friends from Indonesia, Australia, India, USA, Canada and Saipan.
Sanur
La Lucciola
Rock Bar at Ayana Hotel
Mykonos Greek Restaurant – Seminyak
Jimbaran – Seafood on the beach
La Sal
With an early 6am arrival into Brisbane from Singapore, I caught up with old friends at their new home for brunch and a dip in their pool. It was a classic Queensland experience. Outdoors, sunshine, BBQ and a cold beer with friends and their family.


An Introduction
Indonesia is full of adventure. From the abundant sights to see across the thousands of cities, towns and villages; to navigating entrepreneurial opportunities that require creativity, grit and perseverance. Indonesia has become my new home.
If you are interested in non-conformity, emerging markets, entrepreneurship, health, travel, scuba diving and adventure, I hope you’ll find this blog of interest. Do drop me a line, I do my best to respond to every message.
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Posted by Indonesia on November 26, 2009 in Bali, Lombok & Gillis, Belitung, Commentary, Crisis Situations, Diving, Family & Friends, International SOS Jakarta, Life In Jakarta, Medical Services, Out in the Jungles, Projects, Travel for Fun, Vietnam, Weddings
Tags: Indonesia, Work Overseas