Merapi Volcano

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We went to see an active volcano called Merapi. It was not to far from Borobudur and everyone thought it would be a worthwhile detour. We had to drive up a small country road. Pot holes everywhere and crazy moterbikes bypassing. Sat back and enjoyed the secenery.
At one point we were stopped by 4young lads who were sitting by the side of the road. They were given money and we drove on. Asked what happening and found out that they were demanding a rod tax for driving though their area. Was told that this is not uncomon. Felt like I was an extra in Mad Max afterwards.
Couldn't get right up to the volcano. The wind moves the ash about and if it hits your skin you will be in trouble. Stopped at the main scenic point across from the volcano hung about there for an hour or so.
After that we all headed for lunch at this fish resturant nearby. You had to take your shoes off to sit in your booth and the table was only 20inches or so above the ground. There was a band playing and they had these small boats you could make a fool of yourself on in the small lake in the middle of all the booths.
The food was wonderful. If you want good food I would recommend Jogja. The bbq chicken I had on my first night was the nicest I have ever eaten. So much so that i was given it every night I was there for dinner. Its worth the trip for that alone

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Comments

[Tam O'Neill]

Chicken
Paul, the 'merapi chicken' sounds mouth-watering. I had chicken earlier but think our cook only managed to catch the old stringy ones which couldn't run fast enough - tough and tasteless! Did you come across any BBQ monkey? Sounds like you are having a whirlwind tour but it must make the world of a difference to have the company of someone you know. Looking forward to the next installment. Keep safe.

[Peter Hastings]

Your travels
Good to read yr blog and hope you enjoy the rest of ur travels. My neice down in England did something similar last year, but different countries. Wish I was young again. Safe return when u do decide to come back. Peter.

[Storrie]

Hi Tam
thats a stroke of genuis calling it 'Merapi Chicken'. If i find the recipe I'll add it to my menu of the new cafe I should open when I get back. I think the monkeys were to fast to be caught. Would love to have eaten one of the little trouble makers though.