https://www.kelvinism.com/tags/indonesia/Recent content in Indonesia on Kelvin NicholsonHugo -- 0.164.0en-usSat, 22 Dec 2012 12:05:00 +0000https://www.kelvinism.com/2012/12/a-few-days-in-bali.htmlSat, 22 Dec 2012 12:05:00 +0000https://www.kelvinism.com/2012/12/a-few-days-in-bali.html<p>Every time I travel, I discover something I could have done better. I now follow many of those lessons, such as bringing only electronics that charge via USB, but still forget others, such as packing a stuff sack for dirty clothing.</p> <p>This trip to Bali began with a lesson I will not forget: before leaving the airport, confirm that the taxi driver understands the destination. My delayed flight arrived after midnight, but the taxi desk was still open. I organised a prepaid taxi for 135,000 rupiah, or about US$13. Prepaying reduced the need to haggle and removed any concern about a longer route increasing the fare. My previous taxi ride in Bali had been straightforward, but this time the driver and I had no language in common. With many other drivers available, I should have confirmed that I could communicate basic directions before setting off. After about 45 minutes, I reached Canggu, the semi-rural area where I would spend a few days before continuing to Nepal. Despite having the address, resort name, and a map, I lost my way and the driver and I drove around for some time. I asked the driver to call the hotel, but he was unable to connect. Meanwhile, I kept the resort updated by text because someone was likely staying awake for my arrival.</p>