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Our trip so far
So, why do we want to travel?
As a family, we want to embrace the unknown, its joys and challenges, and discover new sides of each other in different environments.
We knew Hannes had an ear infection, and it felt like very good timing that we were heading to the mainland that day. We had already planned the transfer, but now it carried a different kind of weight.
Waiting for us on land were rows of horse carts, beautifully decorated with colorful tassels and ribbons! On Gili Air there are no cars or motorbikes. The island has chosen to stay car-free to protect both the environment and the slow rhythm of life. Instead, people move by foot, bicycle, or horse. You hear hooves on sand, the soft ringing of bicycle bells. This is not a party island, and is very peaceful and romantic island.
At one point I remember thinking: I can’t do this. I want to go home.
And then another question followed: But where is home, actually?
Ubud felt pulsing right away. Small healthy cafés, souvenir shops stretching onto the streets, linen clothes in soft earthy colors moving in the breeze, incense drifting through the air, batik fabrics layered over wooden tables. Spiritual symbols were seen everywhere, fromT-shirts, signs, jewelry and tattooed onto people. Temples tucked between storefronts. Monkeys on cables. Scooters buzzing past. Women in yoga pants heading somewhere purposeful with smoothies to go. It was a lot to take in, and surely very interesting.
So, why do we want to travel?