Friday 11 September Visit to Bitung

We've been enjoying more fabulous diving care of Black Sand Resort and a trip in to the town of Bitung on a motorbike. We asked Kim at the resort if knew of someone who might rent us a scooter so we could go to Bitung, 5 miles away, to buy some fruit and vegetables. He came straight back with 'take my motorbike'. A 125cc proper bike. David drove while I was on pillion and Rere, the assistant manageress from the resort came on her scooter to show us the way and be our interpreter in the town. Riding through country lanes on the back of a bike makes a nice change, Rere loved being our guide and the people we met in town were all smiles of welcome. It was one of those really special days.
In the market we found dyed chicks for sale, ladies who wanted to get in the picture and got photo bombed.

which colour chick tastes better?

David with Rere and new friends

getting photo bombed

There is a phrase that says you get back what you put in to life. The Sulawesians we've met have been so generous we can't repay them. We try to think what we can give them in return. One way is to invite the hotel manager and the dive boat crew aboard to see our home after we've done the last dive on the day. Kim told us they probably three yachts a year here. That's not a lot and explains why we are so much a curiosity.

Last night the dive boats had taken a group of divers from the resort for a night dive off our bow. While they were waiting the hour for the divers to surface they came and tied their boats on to us and came aboard for a chat and drinks (fruit juice as they were still working).