As our week in Bali ends, I have to say that it's one of the best places I've ever been and I would come back in a heartbeat.
While the area's in which we have visited are not rich areas by any means, as a matter of fact, Tumlaben was very poor, but the people are so nice, appreciate their lives and families and enjoy talking with foreigners. They are also so happy to have jobs and do them with the upmost pride, something that most have lost especially in America.
They take a job whether it's taking care of the property, hauling scuba gear or cleaning knowing that if they work hard they can possibly move up to being front desk, bartender, assistant dive master.
They take classes sponsored by the government to learn English and the different trades and work hard in doing it well.
Even if they can't get a job at a resort, they will take any job to make money as most live with their whole families. Even though Bali is a small island, the people don't make much money and can't afford to even go to a nearby town to vacation. Even after they get married there is no honeymoon, although they all know what a honeymoon is, they don't take one themselves.
In Bali, when you tip a taxi driver or someone who carried your luggage, they are so appreciative and thank-you and their "god" for the kindness you have shown. Often I would bargain down the price, say from 50,000 Rp to 40,000 Rp just so I could give them the 50,000 Rp, just to see the smiles.
Our time has ended here in Bali and now we're off to the second part of our journey, Bangkok Thailand for a couple of days then to Koh Tao for a week of diving.
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