Machine Messiah

Bug’s Café, Pondok Indah, Jakarta, Sunday, July 30^th 2006 9:00 pm onwards

It was raining that evening and I almost cancelled to be part of this history. First I had to spent time with the kids since the morning till afternoon. Second I almost didn’t get exit permit from my queen=).

Finally I got green light and I called some friends who I knew usually attended legendary band reunions. Most of them confirmed and that was enough for me. So I called some friends in my hometown, in case they wanted to join. One of them, Yadi Mulyadi, was excited to go and less than an hour we rushed to Jakarta.

Around 7:30 pm we arrived and the parking lot was still empty. I was informed that this event was actually not for public. People should bring their invitations, otherwise not allowed to enter. We asked politely to the officials, if there were tickets avail for us. They couldn’t confirmed and have to ask their superiors. My friends were already inside, and they confirmed about this ticket thing. Meanwhile I saw reporters from a TV station that were not allowed. Simply ‘cause they didn’t have invitations. I knew they were here not having interest with GIPSY BAND & NOOR BERSAUDARA reunion show. They were solely into Chrisye, who was listed to perform with Gipsy. In the past year Chrisye has been seriously ill and having frequent treatment. This legendary singer was an icon in Indonesian music industry. This would be his first public performance, and you’d understand why those infotainment reporters were dying to interview him. After 15 minutes of uncertainty, finally the officials were generously provided us tickets. It was quite expensive, Rp 100.000,-/ pax. I really hoped the money was worthed.

We enter the venue and not many people inside. I saw my friends: Andy Julias, Ella Suud, Ali Gunawan, Denny Sakrie & Sam Alatas. They were having a joyful talk with some mid-age people which I was certain they were senior musicians. I was right. We joined them and looked at those interior designs. A large banner was there with old pictures of Gipsy Band and Noor Bersaudara. Apparently this event was organized by 60’s and 70’s Band Community. I never knew this community existed. Knowing their reputation in the old days and who they are today in government and professional sectors, no wonder the venue was in very high security. They were high-class society: Jajang C Noer, Doddy Soekasah, Eros Djarot, Diah Iskandar, Ida Royani, Frans Suwito, among others. Some of them were senior musicians from the late 60’s and 70’s. Some of them brought their family. I could assure you I was astonished and amazed seeing their looks. They were definitely on top of their career.

Around 9:00 pm Moteh (from The Disc) and Jajang C Noer opened the show. Soon after Noor Bersaudara came on stage. Led by Firzi Noor (vocals, guitars), with Harry Noor (guitars, bass, vocals), Nana Noor (vocals), Raidy Noor (keyboard, guitars) and additional musicians Riza Arshad (keyboards), Uce Hariono (drums), Rani Noor (vocals) and Happy Pretty (vocals). The original 4 Noors sung Rolling Stones’ hit Ruby Tuesday with a different and fresh arrangement. They made it to accommodate their multi voices and it sounded terrific. I’ve been wondering the atmosphere when they used to have this on stage in the 70’s. Then they followed with one of their major hit, written by the legendary Tetty Kadi in 1973.

Firzi Noor told the audience a tale about their collaboration with the late-legendary jazz musician Jack Lesmana. How they owed him everything and they sang two songs as a tribute to him: Ku Berjanji and Senyum. Oh how I wished these two songs were available in the market. They were absolutely stunning! The jazz arrangement was fantastic! After this they played several Beatles songs with some rearrangement here and there. The crowd cheered when they played You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away. If only I brought a tape recorder or handycam. But I did had my digicam.  I really loved their performance!

Next they invited Frans Suwito (president director of Jasa Marga) to join on stage. I didn’t know he was a musician in the old days, and his harmonica was a killer! Beatles’ Little Child soon became everybody’s hit that night. Doddy Soekasah also joined after with While My Guitar Gently Weeps. He played keyboard while Raidy Noor played slide guitar.

Then the elders took a break for awhile, and pleased their juniors to took the stage. NB KIDS, which were actually their sons and daughters including Chrisye’s eldest daughter shared the vocals. I told Andy Julias that they looked interesting, since one of them played cello! Unfortunately the cello wasn’t audible, but their rearrangement on Beatles’ Penny Lane was another surprise that evening! They almost played everything, except drums (still Uce Hariono), keyboards (still Raidy Noor & Riza Arshad). But the rest played everything. Too bad they only played one song.

Next the elders took over the stage again with Beatles’ classics in medley: Fool On The Hill, You Never Give Me Your Money, I’ve Just Seen A Face, and Drive My Car (with Chrisye’s wife Yanti Noor join the vocals). As the encore they played Harapan Nan Gersang, which lyric was written by Yanti Noor.

Not that long, Gipsy Band soon was on stage. Keenan Nasution (drums, vocals), Tammy (flute, sax, vocals), Onan Susilo (keys, vocals), Odink Nasution (guitars), Gauri Nasution (guitars) with some additional but senior musicians on bass, trumpet and trombone. Looking at the formation, I knew what I was expecting: blues and jazz rock. They kicked the night with a blues song, which I wished I knew what the title was. I wasn’t familiar with it. It was quite a long song with Tammy on lead vocals. Wow! His vocals was outstanding and very blues! Couldn’t believe it was some 30 years ago when they used to play together. Dunno how long they practiced and rehearsed, but I was glad they started with me staring them with joy.

They invited Chrisye to join and soon the icon appeared with his wife Yanti Noor pushing his wheel chair. He looked much healthier than I’ve seen some months ago. The People were greeting and shaking his hands on his way to stage. Chrisye took several steps, until he was seated again. Tammy made few jokes with Chrisye before the legend lead the band with a classic hit from The Casuals, Jesamine. People stood to paid their respect. Although people asked for another song, Chrisye wasn’t allowed to be exhausted. The audience understood and Chrisye took place in front row with his family.

Gipsy Band continued with Harry Sabar on lead singing Jethrotull’s Nothing Is Easy. This was maybe the first time ever a local band played Jethrotull. Tammy’s flute was marvellous and Harry’s stage act was incredible! The venue now was full with blues-jazz rock atmosphere. Next Keenan took the lead singing Once There Was A Love (by Jose Feliciano), with Onan Susilo as second vocalist. Harry Sabar took the drums. It was a very nice and lovely song. Apparently my vocab in 60’s and 70’s was very short, and telling the truth except for that Jethrotull, none of the songs rang a bell.

Allman Brothers’ Jessica filled the room with Gipsy’s excellent and tight performance. I’ve never seen this song played by anyone here, and I really cherished this moment. One of Nasution’s son, Ade (also program director of Prambors Radio) lead the band with his vocals and guitars on Jimi Hendrix’ Fire. He was very entertaining and amused the audience with some guitar-showmanship. I liked this guy!

Next was a song I didn’t know. I thought it was originally from Blond, though I wasn’t sure. But the next was Not Foolish, Not Wise (by Keef Hartley Band). Soon Gipsy ended the show with Blood, Sweat and Tears’ I Love You More Than You Ever Know. Wow! This song brought me back to the old days! Gauri’s guitar and Onan’s keys were very blues. Too bad Gipsy never had an original work. Not to mention GURUH GIPSY. As the encore, Gipsy Band invited Noor Bersaudara to sing one more song: Jimi Hendrix/ Bernanrd Purdie/ Buddy Miles (I wished I knew who sang this first) Changes.

I was really glad could made it. The highest gratitude should be address to my queen. If not for her, I wouldn’t be a witness of this marvellous legendary reunion.

Friday night, July 21^st 2006 was an exciting night as always. This ProDuaRock (formerly Rock The Night) Radio RRI Programa 2 Jakarta, 105 FM, edition was a gallery of one of the legendary progressive rock band from UK: CAMEL. Not many Indonesians followed their career as we were mostly fell into Yes, Genesis, ELP, Pink Floyd or King Crimson. CAMEL deserved a greater respect as their adventure has spanned for 30 years since their intial self titled album in 1973.

To make the radioshow more exciting, we made a simple quiz with one CD from our sponsor (Sony BMG Indonesia) as the prize. The quiz was easy: Colin Bass (CAMEL’s bassist) was better known with his hit sung by Phillipine’s Maribeth in early 90’s. He was known in his alter ego, Sabah Mustapha, which was actually Colin Bass. So the question was, what was the song title that made Maribeth very popular back then? The answer was Denpasar Moon, and in fact around 40 incoming sms answered correctly. It was fun! We also talked about Colin Bass’ life in Indonesia, particularly in Bandung (West Java) where he spent some time with Sundanese traditional musicians in a regular basis. It was also suspected that Colin introduced Andrew Latimer (guitarist, vocalists, main songwriter, flute of CAMEL) to several traditional flute. The title track from their 2002 album, A Nod and A Wink, clearly used the famous Sundanese bamboo flute. Unfortunately the sleevenotes didn’t explain further about this instrument.

Anyway, here are the tracklist we played that night:

1. Never Let Go (Camel, 1973)
2. Lunar Sea (Moonmadness, 1976)
3. Squigely Fair (A Nod and A Wink, 2002)
4. Long Goodbyes (Stationary Traveller, 1984)
5. Sahara (Rajaz, 1999)
6. Drafted (Nude, 1981)
7. A Nod and A Wink (A Nod and A Wink, 2002)
8. Freefall (Mirage, 1974)
9. Fox Hill (A Nod and A Wink, 2002)
10. First Light (Rain Dances, 1977)

Listen to RRI Programa 2 Jakarta, 105 FM, every Friday 2^nd week, 9.00-11.00 pm. Full two hours with progressive rock artist profile and hits, hosted by Iwan Fadillah and Surjorimba Suroto.

HOLIDAYS

During this school holidays, for the first time in my life I took office leave to met my kids holidays. We went to Bali for 5 days. It was all fun, exhausting, and terrible at first holiday.

Day 1: Friday, June 30^th 2006

We went to the airport by airport bus. Usually it took around 1.5 hours to arrive. But that afternoon the traffic was awful and we arrived late. Damn! Almost three hours! We arrived only minutes before the plane left. There was no way we could get on board. But still we check in, hoping the plane delayed. No can do.

The check-in desk was crowded with people. We were not the only ones that arrived late. Many people for many flights also did. So we were listed on waiting list for the next flight. The system went down several times. People were upset. The worst part was, the beraucracy was awful and I must pay a lot! Almost the price of 1 children single seat! #@$%^&%$#@!!!! But we must go to Bali, so I paid the cost. I called the travel agent in Bali who was supposed to pick us up, telling that we would be late.

After we settled the administration stuffs, we rushed to the gate. And when we arrived, people were going to the plane. We forgot to take the children’s warm jackets, as we placed it in one of our luggage. As we were waiting-listers, our seats were separated. Luckily Idah and the kids were seated very close, while I was on the other side of the plane.

But the worst part wasn’t that

Two passengers were missing, while their luggage was on board. The aircrew have to get the passengers manuscript and checked everyone. What a mess! Nobody knew the missing whereabouts. I enjoyed my iPod, but Nadya was suffering the cold. So I tried to get warm drinks for Idah and the kids. Then I looked for blankets, which were avail for business class. It wasn’t allowed, but I insisted. So I got two sheets. Then I asked for warm tea and asked Nadya and Kalista to drink.

Meanwhile, Idah sat next to a foreigner. A Singaporean I think, and he kept babbling and upset about the situation. He asked several questions to Idah and she couldn’t reply properly. Idah’s English was not that fluent. When I passed her, Idah delivered his questions and I explained to him. Basicly there was nothing we passengers could do. He kept talking to Idah and asked about our trip to Bali, the hotel we’re going to stay, why Indonesians go to Bali for holiday (instead of other places), etc. The funny part was when he told Idah about my English. He said that my English was very good. Better than he expected from an Indonesian. When Idah explained where I was born, the Singaporean was amazed. Hey, did he think all Indonesians lived in an isolated country? Geezz….. After almost 1.5 hours staying in the plane, finally we were ready to fly. Whew!

When we arrived in Ngurah Rai airport, the airport was crowded with people waiting for flight from Jakarta. We met the driver and we went straight to the hotel. It was a very beautiful hotel. Much beautiful than I expected or seen in their website. Hotel Swiss Bel Bali was such a wonderful hotel in Nusa Dua. Located in the southern part of Bali island, around 20 min from airport. You can see the pictures here. It’s a combination of modern and traditional Balinese architecture. It didn’t take long for us to fall in love with this hotel. In our room, located on the first floor facing the garden, I made the kids warm drinks. After unpacked our things, they went to bed. While I continued watching World Cup quarter finals.

Day 2: Saturday July 1^st 2006

We woke up early to enjoy the fresh air. The hotel was very beautiful and the view from our terrace was quite nice. Well, it wasn’t that beautiful, but we can see some birds flying and played on our little garden. The breakfast buffet was located in front of the swimming pool. The menu itself was standard breakfast, so nothing was special about it. But the area surrounding it was magnificent. In front of the restaurant, they have a large space. It was hard to say it as terrace. Beside several dining tables, they have two traditional gazebos where we could also dine in. Each were located on the left and right side at the garden.

Not very far from these two gazebos were the swimming pools. Yes, they have twin swimming pools. Each reflected warm and calm water, with the dark-blue ocean effect. Surrounding both pools in the capital I formation, were standard sunbath matresses. What I loved most about these swimming pools, was another thing. Surrounding this complex of swimming pools/ garden/ restaurant were 3-storey buildings on each side, and a cottage for spa. The designer were clever to positioned these buildings around the swimming pool. The sunlight wasn’t that shiny to the pool. In fact only some part in the middle were highlighted by the sun. It gave the warm-cool effect, along with the fresh air. Oh it was perfect. Later on this atmosphere were also perfect for lunch and dinner.

After breakfast we went to the seashore. Hotel Swiss Bel Bali didn’t have a seashore in their area. Instead the rented some space in the luxurious complex around 10 min from hotel. A car took the customers every 2 hours to the beach. Inside the complex, there were many high class hotels. Grand Hyatt for example, and Nusa Dua Notovel, along with another luxurious simple shopping center. They have Starbucks there=). The beach was sooooo beautiful and verrrryyyyy clean. The kids enjoyed the sea and played almost full 2 hours. Idah and me enjoyed the sun. Yikes! Didn’t we have enough sun in Jakarta and Bogor?

We returned to the hotel for lunch, and the kids went swimming again. This time in the swimming pool. Meanwhile Idah and I enjoyed free-spa from the hotel. We took this delighted facility separately since one of us must looked after the kids. The spa itself was very cool! Of course the design interior was very Balinese and the aromatheraphy brought us to neverland. After this relaxing moment we went to Bali Art Center near Denpasar around 2 pm. We went by taxi and believe me, never took a cab in Bali. Why? It was so expensive!!! Well, it was far from Nusa Dua to Bali Art Center. Around 45 minutes, and it cost around Rp 125.000,-. (and later Rp 150.000,- to return to hotel. In total Rp 275.000,-). Oh man, how I regretted ever took a cab. For comparison, a 6 hours rent-a-car cost around Rp 210.000,-

It was the annual art festival in Bali Art Center, so we were hoping to see many art and dance performances. Unfortunately all dance performances took places starting at 8 pm. No way we could see any dances. Meanwhile we were hungry and took another lunch. It was hard to find Moslem food in Bali, as their traditional food was mainly pork. But we found a small hut selling fried fish and it was delicious. Idah said the chilli was remarkable. Unfortunately I don’t eat chilli.

Inside Bali Art Center, we couldn’t feel the art atmosphere. Yes all buildings were Balinese-designs. But so far no performances there. It was around 4 pm and all we found were street sellers everywhere! Oh man…. They were everywhere, selling everything ranging from pork satay to those accessories and clothes and children toys. I believed we visitors were the minorities. Funny eh?

Well, there were so many small shops inside Bali Art Center and most of them sold cute stuffs. Of course the price should be bargained, and I didn’t know if we actually got the best price. But compared to Jakarta, the price and the goods were worthed. Idah got kebaya for the kids. Very cute and beautiful Balinese-design. Idah intended the kids to wear those kebayas during Liza’s wedding ceremony this early August in KL. Meanwhile I searched for something interesting for myself. I’m more into handicrafts, but I couldn’t find anything I liked. There were some Balinese wayang puppets, but the leather and painting quality weren’t that good. So I searched for other garments for Idah, and I found a nice store with very beautiful collection. When Idah finished buying the kids’ kebaya, I took her to this store. We selected some items and their collection was oh so beautiful! We cut down most choices until only two left. Idah chose the yellow kebaya, with yellow and orange embroideries. Not that expensive. Well quite actually. But we were satisfied with what we got.

We wander around seeing some Balinese stuffs. Gold & silver accessories (but they were very expensive), some clothes, handicrafts, others but we didn’t buy anything. It was almost sunset and we decided to go home. I called the taxi driver who volunteered to wait for us and drove us back to our hotel. Meanwhile we took so many pictures around Art Center, including the huge beautiful statue of eagle and dragon. On our way home, we stopped by at Mc Donald’s near Jimbaran. I’d prefer other food for dinner, but under certain circumstances this fastfood was the best food. We also got some cute mini-cars based on the animated movie Cars. The kids loved it. Near the hotel, I visited a small traditional coffee shop, buying some traditional Balinese coffee. The taxi driver recommended this place since it was among drivers’ fave. Too bad there wasn’t any samples to drink. But I bought some anyway.

Arriving around 8 pm at the hotel, the kids took a bath while Idah and I watched some TV programs. Nothing interesting except World Cup, which schedule was around midnight. Idah scrolled some advertisements we got on Ngurai Rai airport, planning on tomorrow’s trip. We decided to go to the famous Sukawati Marketplace, which sold so many cheap stuffs. That’s what people said. Then planned to visit Pura Tanah Lot (located in western Bali island) to see sunset, and planned to have dinner at Jimbaran.

DAY 3: SUNDAY, JULY 2^ND 2006

After breakfast we walked around the narrow street near the hotel. Yesterday, when we went to the beach, we saw several stores in this area. So we took a look, just to know what were they selling. Not much interesting stuffs, and we’re going to Sukawati Marketplace anyway. However Idah bought a very cute chandelier for rp 20.000,-. We thought it was quite cheap. Later on at Sukawati, the exact stuff was sold for only rp 12.500,-. Damn.

At the hotel, the kids spent some time at the swimming pool. They enjoyed it very much, and their smiles and laughter made me happy. FYI, this was the first family trip on our own (to a place far away from home) since Kalista was born. Yes we did travel to several places. But those were with my office outings, on business purposes, or with our larger family from both sides. This time it was only the four of us.

After taking lunch at the gazebo next to the pool (and of course prepare our trip), the rented car arrived. The driver was a nice person, and at first it was difficult to communicate since he talked with a heavy Balinese accent. Later on we could understand everything he said. The car was nice, clean, quite large space, with aircon. We directly travel to Sukawati, which was located in central Bali. Since the driver was a native, and apparently he knew many things about the culture, I asked him a lot. We were glad he was the driver, as his knowledge was very good. For example we asked about the meaning for difference designs on traditional gates, the unique roof on temples, how much it usually cost to built a temple, how many types of temples, designs on Balinese batik, several dos and don’ts in Bali, ngaben procession (ngaben is a ritual procession when we buried dead people), Balinese dance, interesting places, etc. The driver also owned a small shop at Sukawati, run by his wife and niece.

When we came to todays condition post-Bali bomb explosion, he said that Bali suffered the consequences. Volume of tourists dropped significantly. Usually he and his employers only accepted foreign orders, and it was plenty of orders. But now they were open to locals like us.

We stopped by at Celuk, which was famous of their gold and silver handicrafts. Yes the shops in this area has many beautiful designs. But don’t ask the price. We couldn’t afford it. So we continued our travel to Sukawati, which was only around 15 min from this place. We went straight to his shop, guided by his niece. Its collection was quite good, so Idah bought several clothes there for gifts. The kids and I sat near the shop watching the marketplace activities. Sukawati itself was more than a crowded place. Very difficult to walk between alleys. We were informed to ask for bargain price, so we did it. I didn’t know if it was quite cheap or what, but I thought we got a very good price.

After finished shopping we went to a small restaurant, which fortunately only sold chicken. The meal was quite good and I was glad we found it. We discovered a nice slippers store next to the restaurant, and …. Idah found that the slippers she bought was originally taken from this source. And much cheaper! Damn!

We didn’t stay that long at Sukawati, since we planned to go to Tanah Lot to see sunset. We arrived at Tanah Lot around 5 pm. The place was crowded as well with tourists. You could find all kinds of people here. We walked on the beach and took several pictures of the famous temple at the seaside. Then we took a perfect place to see the sunset. While waiting, we saw a Japanese couple which attracted many people. Why? Because the girl wore a short skirt and high heels! This was a beach! She kept holding her skirt so the wind wouldn’t uplifted it. Very funny. Too bad the sky was cloudy and the sunset wasn’t that beautiful. But I was glad the kids could see the sun sets to dark. I believe this was their first time seeing the sky turned to dark.

On our way to Jimbaran beach, we passed the famous Kuta area. So this was the famous Bali bomb explosion some years ago. We saw the monument. I was astonished of the Legian street. Not because of its beauty. It was very crowded and for me the atmosphere wasn’t enjoyable. For me it looked like a cheap and dirty area. I was glad we didn’t stay here during our holiday. I saw the famous Tintin shop, but not interested to stop by. We did paid a visit to Uluwatu Boutique. I always loved their lace design and clothes. Hoping the price was much cheaper than their outlet in Jakarta, apparently the price was not that different. We left empty-handed.

Arriving at Jimbaran beach, located near Ngurai Rai airport. There were lots of restaurant here, selling seafood, with tables facing the sea. I didn’t know which part of Jimbaran that suffered the other bomb explosion. But I could imagine the disaster. It was an open sky restaurant, where we could see the sky while having dinner. In fact, Nadya saw a shooting star! I never saw one in my whole life! We had large fried fish and large fried squid. Well, nothing was small here, so we were forced to buy the big ones. In the end we couldn’t finish everything, and asked the waiter to pack it and bring it home. Very tired and we went directly to Swiss Bel Bali hotel. It was already late.

DAY 4: MONDAY, JULY 3^RD 2006

We prepare for our sea trip to Tanjung Benoa. The harbour was not that far from our hotel. Around 15 min by car. The tour agent picked us up and soon we arrived to a quite crowded harbour. After made some price negotiations, we agreed to rent a glass-bottom boat, went snorkling for Nadya and me, then went to Penyu (turtle) Island. There were many sport activities here. You could dive, parasailing, jet-skiing, many more.

The glass-bottom boat was quite huge. Unfortunately the view under the ocean was not that good. Yes we could see so many fish beneath, but the coral were not that beautiful. We anchored and prepared for snorkling. Nadya wore the life jacket, and so we were swimming at sea. For both of us, that was the first time snorkling at sea. We were only used to at swimming pools. It was quite hard, since the waves distracted us in concentrating. Even I got several sips of seawater. I didn’t know about Nadya. But we had good times there, and we also gave pieces of bread to the fish. Idah and Kalista stayed on board, although Kalista insisted to joined us.

Tired of snorkling and swimming, we went to Turtle Island. It wasn’t an island. It was just a name. The trip to this place took quite a long time. It wasn’t that far. It was the sea. The boat had to be driven slowly, since the sea was shallow. We could see so many turtles in this place. Large ones. You could see baby turtles to 50 years-old turtles. Small kids were even allowed to sat on top of the very very very huge turtle. We took a picture with the middle-sized turtles. A very nice guy guided us explaining this turtle park. How the government supported them, etc. They also have several tamed animals like sea-eagles, large bats, huge snakes, and birds I didn’t know the exact name. Do you know that Froot Loops cereal from Kellog’s? Yes, that’s the one. Idah and I took a picture with the birds. I love birds. But Idah was nervous and scared with the Froot Loops bird. It was very huge and it seemed it was going to bit her in the ear. The kids refused to take a picture with these lovely animals. Finished with the turtles and birds, we took a short rest and enjoyed the fresh coconut.

We returned to the glass-bottom boat and took another round. We didn’t go for snorkling. We just enjoyed the view and saw other people enjoying their fun. I was thinking to ride the banana boat or parasailing, but I withdrawal the idea. I didn’t bring enough money. So all we did was just enjoyed other people’s fun. Finished with the glass-bottom boat, we returned to the beach. People were queueing like snakes for parasailing. I really wanted to try.

The travel offered us other activities, but we weren’t interested and we returned home. The small mini-bus we rode was a collective ride. We took a Japanese couple to their hotel first, Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua. Oh the hotel was soooo huge and beautiful. They even have their own beach! I noticed there were several small cars parked. I thought it was for golf-driving. Our driver said they weren’t for that purpose. Since Grand Hyatt was very huge, people need those little cars to reached their rooms. How convenient!

It was already lunchtime when we arrived at the hotel. We ordered at the usual restaurant.We stayed at the hotel for the rest of the afternoon, while thinking tomorrow will be our last day here. Idah still wanted to go to Sukawati again, as she had many things to buy again. I was eagerly wanted to visit Pura Besakih, the famous, largest complex, and the oldest temple in Bali. We called the nice rental car driver again and asked if he was avail for us tomorrow. I was glad the answer was yes. In fact, he just left Pura Besakih with some Netherlands tourists.

At night we went out for dinner. Looking for restaurants near our hotel. Not far we found a small nice coffee shop that sold Moslem food. And they have local TV programs! We didn’t have that in our hotel, which was only from Indovision. Finally we could see Extravaganza on Trans TV. Before we went to bed, we asked housekeeping if their have spare large carton box. We bought so many handicrafts and souvenirs, for ourselves and handfruits, we were out of space in our luggage. Luckily they have one, and we packed that box but couldn’t finalized it since there will be more stuffs after last trip tomorrow

DAY 5: TUESDAY, JULY 4^TH 2006

We packed up everything, cause today was our last day in Bali. We’ll check out after breakfast, since we’re going to Pura Besakih and Sukawati Marketplace again. Then we’ll go straight to airport. Our flight to Jakarta leave at 5.30 pm. We said goodbye to Swiss Bel Hotel nice staffs. We felt like home here and I wrote nice things in their guestbook.

The rented car with the same nice driver arrived and we went straight to Pura Besakih. On our way, we saw other parts of Bali. This time we drove through the eastern part of Bali. It was a new highway, the driver said. I also mentioned to him that I never saw goats, sheeps, or horses in Bali. He confirmed that, since it was uncommon for Balinese to have those animals. The view of Sanur was beautiful in the morning. Lovely. Unfortunately we couldn’t stop by to enjoy.

Pura Besakih was located on the hills of Gunung Agung and the weather was cold. The driver told us many things about this famous and legendary temple. The dos and don’ts. After paying the entrance fee, we went to the temple. A tourist guide assisted us, in telling the history and customs of Pura Besakih.  We found out that the temple was actually a complex of temples. The Pura Besakih itself was the smaller temple in the front, built in the 8^th century. It was still in perfect condition. The rest were built circa 11^th century.

There was a ritual during our visit there. Unfortunately it won’t start until lunchtime. So just took a picture of the preparation. We were told there was a Legong dance performance the other night. I regretted didn’t have the chance to see this legendary Balinese dance. I only knew it by reputation and never got the chance to witnessed it. Not our lucky day.

From Pura Besakih we went straight to Sukawati Marketplace again, which was on the way to the airport. We arrived there during lunch and we went to the same diningplace as before. Idah took the time to hunt some stuffs, while I took the kids just wandering around. Yes I found some female clothes I’ve been looking for. But price was unaffordable, I just skipped them. We also went to other sections of the market and we found some stores selling Balinese ritual equipments and clothes. Very beautifully crafted. When Idah arrived with her stuffs, we packed everything into the large box and sealed it. Now we’re ready to go home.

Around 2 pm we went to the airport. And it took only around 45 minutes from Sukawati. We were really grateful to Mr. Mana, the driver. He was a nice man, with good manner. I hope in the future we could meet again. This time with no rush and very plenty of time, we checked in. After that we salat and took light meal at the coffeeshop. At the airport we saw Ida Iasha, one of our famous artist in the 80’s. She looked quite old now. Well it’s been some 15 years since she was hot back then. But she’s still verrrryy beautiful. Idah actually wanted to take a picture with her, but she was too shy. I told her to ask Ida Iasha politely and I was sure she’ll be ok. But Idah withdrawal the idea.

We didn’t do anything while waiting at the boarding room. Just looked at the shops there and thook some pictures, including minutes before take off. A scene of Ngurah Rai airport. Inside the plane some funny thing happened. While I was preparing my seat (Idah and the kids sat on the back row of mine) the flight attandant made a short chat with me. About my Sony digicam, and she was pretty. I instantly thought that Idah must have been thinking what I was thinking. And I was right=)

The flight was fun and I was enjoying my ipod, which I haven’t listened during our stay in Bali. Ahh… it’s nice to hear those jazzytunes again. And in no time the view of Soekarno-Hatta airport is just outside the window.