Friday 26 April

Cream bath day, yipee. What an experience at what I can only describe as a proper old-fashioned beauty parlour with plenty of ladies milling about and fussing over the customers. First we were put into little batik modesty gowns elasticated above the bust and long enough to cover your bum (but we all kept our jeans on). Then we were then ushered into the washing room where we lay horizontally to have our hair washed - the best way to have it done! Next we were each sat in a chair and given a delicious deep head, neck and shoulder massage; thick henna cream on hair and then a moisturising cream on necks, arms, shoulders etc. After an hour long session we were placed under steamers to open the pores on the scalp and allow the henna to penetrate. Yummy. See pictures under Cream Bath file for more, and the result of Penelope's blow dry!

We were treated to a wonderful dinner in the Skybar, Jakarta's tallest building. Had delicious butterfish stew then googled butterfish to read that it can have some pretty terrible after-affects. I escaped, luckily for my hosts.

Sat-Sun 27-28 April

After a sad goodbye to lovely travel buddy Kate, much time was spent lounging, reading and chatting in the pool area with a delicious tuna supper cooked by Jerry in the evening.

Monday 29 April

Aborted visit to Vietnamese Embassy (closed due to public holiday) and another aborted visit to the National Museum (closed as it was Monday), what else to do but go shopping! Penny had her eyebrows threaded and dyed, rather pleased with the result and it didn't hurt. Really getting into this pampering thing. Shared a naughty waffle at cafe Batavia in the most beautiful colonial building, looking out onto a delightful square - see pics in Jakarta folder. The walls are plastered with great photos of celebrities of a bygone era.

Colourful bicycles outside for hire, and a group of girls who were keen to be pictured alongside the lovely Deborah! (They overlooked me.)

Tuesday 30 April

An incredible day rumaging through fabric and haberdashery stores to pick up a bargain. Naturally I bought some to bring home with me - a possible dress to wear to Claire and Tim's wedding even!

Wednesday 1 May

Today began the preparations for the lamb raan I promised to cook for D&J. Or rather, goat. Same thing really... innit?! So there was much grinding and slicing in the Jakarta house, poor Debbie has a vat of spices to use up in due course...

Thursday 2 May

Visit to the National Museum; fascinating variety of exhibits representing the diverse cultures that make up Indonesia. Lots of stone relics that come from Hindu and Buddhist temples; stunning ceramics and water buts (yes, quite a few of those in the museum) and an interesting biggy bank collection. Well worth a visit.

Friday 3 May

The most sublime facial ever at a gorgeous spa which reminded me of villa Maju. We look ten years younger! Totally blissed out; aloe vera and cucumber mmm. Then had my first bikini wax ever - ouch! Probably should've had the wax first but it didn't take long for the bliss from the facial to return. PM spent cooking and preparing the red cabbage slaw for dinner, which went down well with a couple of bottles of chianti.

Saturday 4 May

Very relaxing day, lunch out where I had spicey clams. Delicious. Back home to prepare for Vietnam trip tomorrow - early night tonight!