Mermaid on a diet
Interesting to see how the mermaid got thinner and more modest over the years.

It stays with you, doesn’t it?
Well written, bro. I’ve traveled many places but tana Toraja will remain one of my most intense, best trips. It’s really hard to understand what this place really feel like to other, you know? Travel on, man.

Beggars of Mount Popa
Hey, I just read your post having just ventured out this morning to Mount Popa. Unfortunately I have further information about the people you saw road side. They have been there for three years. Their village burned (or was burnt) down and the government relocated them into small “compound like” accommodations. They have no belongings and have no means of income. It is a truly disturbing site and one of those times where to good will of of passing people (all be it very impersonal and almost disregarded) have perpetuated the problem. Just thought you might have been interested in this. We have a very knowledgeable and fluent English speaking guide Cheers.

Mountains
Beautiful! What lovely mountain scenery, and what amazing meals you had there! You've got me interested in potentially giving Bali a second go at some point...!

Mount and Lake Batur
Wow, Mount Batur and Lake Batur look like really beautiful and scenic places, and I'm sure the cemetery visit was culturally educational. I'm glad you were able to do this trip, it seems you've been meaning to for a while. Sometimes I think it's worth splashing out the extra dollars if it's a place we wouldn't normally get to see or experience in our lives.

Great swimming
Lots of fun.

T50YOB!
I loved this travel blog entry, Siewch. Very witty and tongue-in-cheek, I loved the detachment from the travel experiences. From this T40YOB, I would go for air-conditioned, breakfast-buffet hotel luxury, and short plane hops over 10-hour bus trips any day! Glad you were able to rest up in the lovely hotel ?

Sulawesi
Fantastic! Great to see you travelling and travel writing again Siewch. I really enjoy your blogs. I have never read anything about travelling in Sulawesi until now, what a really fascinating place. What differences between the culture you encountered and our western one. Mind boggling I imagine, it would probably have taken me a while myself to digest it all...!

The Blair Brothers
Thanks for reminding me about "Ring of Fire." It was shown on PBS here in the States, and a book was published by the two brothers, Lorne and Lawrence Blair. If you look close, in one scene you can see Keith Richards hanging out with the guys. I agree with you about Citidines, and always check them out when traveling. While they may cost a little more, since the rooms have a kitchenette,you can save a ton of money by not having to go out for every meal.