The Big Flop

I was feeling all wound up. In extremis, you could say. I wasn’t sleeping long – or well. My eyes … More

Behind The Scenes (Of a Balinese Marriage)

Once in awhile, Ubud catches me off guard. Even after 6+ years of island living, I feel like I’m immersed … More

Souvenirs of Sanur

It was time for a break. After weeks of wondering about Mount Agung’s “imminent eruption” and navigating through the crowds … More

Bring On The Ancestors!

It is no coincidence that the authorities and vulcanologists have just lowered the volcanic alert level. Which would mean that … More

Surfing in Oz

If you’ve never joined up with communities like AirBnB, Homeexchange, Trusted Housesitters, or Couchsurfing, you have no idea what you’re … More

Happy Beachday!

Since arriving in Adelaide, I’d been watching the forecast closely, at least twice a day – a habit I’d long … More

A Long Wait.. and Baby Makes Four

The other day, I set out for one of the most significant Balinese ceremonies that I’ve ever been honored to … More

Kings of the Sawah

I’ve been back home for less than 24 hours. It’s startling to note the stark differences between my own neighbourhood, … More

Getting my Greens (& Golds)

I’d grown weary of the relentless parade of concrete, cement, cinderblocks; the onslaught of chimney-like blasts of smoke pelting at … More

Bagel Birthday Bash!

White seed or black? White please, and preferably piping hot, right out of the brick oven. For any native-born and … More