Quite the journey

After over 40 hours on land, sea and air we have finally made it to our first destination, the island of Pulau Weh, locally known as Sabang, off the northern tip of Sumatra. All of the legs of the journey went like clockwork, the only troubling part, the last hour which was an very bumpy ferry ride to the island in heavy seas.

We are staying at a lovely hotel called Freddie's, which consists of 15 bungalows hugging a cliff above the Straits of Melacca. From out bungalow, 50 feet or so above the sea, we see the lovely white sandy beach, waving coco palms and the crashing surf. In Hawaii, our room would probably be $200+, here it's $25. Freddie serves a delicious buffet breakfast and dinner, $2 and $7 respectively.

I call this place "The Friendly Isle" because everyone here has a smile, a wave and a "hello" for you. Driving around in the local version of a tuk tuk, called here a becak, when people drive by and see you, you get a quick wave and a hello. Walking down the streets of the town, Sabang, people are always smiling and little kids especially try their limited English out by asking your name.

Whenever we get to a new town, Amy and I love to peruse the local market. It's one is terrific wi all sorts of local delicacies...fresh fish caught off the island, dried fish in all sorts of different species, vegetables and fruits some of which you've never seen before. Of course there is the terrible smelling but sweet tasting durian the King of Fruits in this part of the world.

The water here has been quite turbulent, but today, before our ferry leaves at 4pm, I think we will try some snorkeling. Tonight we will be in the town of Banda Aceh and tomorrow it's off to Lake Toba.