batam bonanza

Spent Sunday in batam. Went on one of them day tours for about $70/person.

Going there was smooth. Coming back was a bitch. Water was super choppy. It didn't help that there was a hyperactive kid sitting behind kicking my chair every now and then.

The numbnut who arranged our tour neglected to get nor tell me about my visa requirements. I found out upon arrival at customs and was directed to queue at another line. He's the one who took down our passport details etc. He should have arranged all this for me beforehand. What a dipshit.

First stop was a local tidbits stall. Bought fish crackers and lots of pantyliners. They were only $1+. Cold storage sells them for bloody $3.40. The coins are remarkably light and feel very toy-like. But when you jingle them they have that metallic sound.

Went to a few temples, a polo shop (dunno real or not) and then had a seafood lunch. Crab, sotong, fish, shrimp and sambal kangkong.

Opted for a $20 1½hr thai massage just before the journey home. BIG MISTAKE.

My upper arms are still sore. Either she really knows how to use her thumbs or I dunno how to relax. When she started 'massaging' my calves, it felt like she was tearing the flesh from my bones. And she massaged all the way up to my crotch, there was definate touching of bits (not front, back. Thank heavens)

Must remember to bring plenty of tissue. The toilets were atrocious. Will try out their spa scene someday. Hopefully it wll be a more relaxing experience.