The Fun Police Issue a Warning

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I'm heading to Sabang for New Year's weekend. It's an island about 40 minutes away by ferry where they don't really enforce Sharia (Islamic) law. There's no running water and generator-only electricity, but there IS: beer, parties on the beach and diving/snorkeling around the amazing coral reefs. I've been there once before so i put some pics up to give you a sneak peek. I'm glad to be leaving Banda for this holiday weekend. A letter was issued to all aid agencies here this afternoon from the Head of Islamic Sharia office in Banda Aceh. Here's an excerpt:

"Head of Islamic Sharia office in Banda Aceh, Natsir Ilyas, emphasized that his area must be cleared from trumpet sounds on New Year’s Eve and prohibited international NGO staff from having night parties. It is suggested that Banda Aceh’s residents should celebrate the coming of New Year by praying at mosques or musalla. The party that will be banned or not allowed is that contains or leads to any amoral behaviors which are against the local tradition. These are such as having all night beach party with dancing and singing which result in drunk and adultery."

Yep. Glad I'll be in Sabang. I wish you all a Happy Happy New Year filled with trumpet sounds and dancing and singing which result in drunk and adultery!

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Photos

Sabang - Island of Sin
The island is actually named Pulah Weh, but everyone just calls it by the name of the main city, Sabang.

The Beach Bungalows - mine was the one on top
The door to the "bathroom" led nowhere. You hang your ass off the back of the bungalow and do it like the monkeys. But we use toilet paper, of course.

Shirt Required for Swimming (even here in Sabang)
I need one of those outfits from the 1920's - complete with vertical stripes and bathing cap.

Mama Monkey hanging out on the bungalow
Babies were running around underfoot, but too quick for my camera.

Comments

[Melissa]

look what you started
so does this official letter announcement have anything to do with the parties that you have been rumored to be throwing down there? some crazy thanksgiving feast, and Christmas shing-ding, etc.? I think the beach sounds like a perfect spot. Maybe you can try to get the suite this time with the king size feather bed. :) have fun!

[auntie ginny]

new years greeting!
Hello grandmas pumpkin, we wish you a very happy new year filled with lots of love,wealth and good health. I envy you being on that island. wish we were there. Love those monkeys. Is the water warm?The family will gather tonight at our house and we will toast you. our love to you auntie and unk!

[r.depiero]

so much for that great bathing suit you wore in mexico

[mandie]

happy new year!
the climate in those parts is really making you hair grow at the fastest of speeds. you look lovely. happy new year and may 2006 bring you the best in health, the best in love from friends and family and the best in adventure.

[Kathie]

Happy New Year!
Your description of the bungalow bathroom reminded me of the POC :) I hope that you had a great weekend away. It is 25 degrees here in NH. So the warm sun and surf sounds so wonderful!!

[Douglas Allen]

Great to see you in your environment
Thanks for the sweet photos. It is wonderful to see you in your new world. Blessings and love for the new year! :D Doug NYC