tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52415240979565119432024-03-13T15:59:05.555-07:00BORYS TRAVEL BLOGUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger422125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-39054601543995357742015-02-17T02:05:00.001-08:002015-02-17T02:05:59.157-08:00GeAr on the road<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Few remarks about the gear & gadgets I used during the trip.<br />
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* <span style="font-size: large;">Honda PCX 150cm3</span> was flawless. Never let me down, even once. Quiet and economic enough (200km per tank). But the best feature by far is relatively compact size. It made very comfortable commuting around bigger cities and saved tons of hours from traffic jams.<br />
The only thing that needs improvement - seat comfort and position. But I guess only bigger bike can provide that.<br />
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* <span style="font-size: large;">Coocase</span> top case - served well especially its mobility - easy take off and carry to the room. However it's not fully weatherproof as advertised. During heavy storms the water tend to gather in lower bottom of inside the case.<br />
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* <span style="font-size: large;">Samsung Galaxy Note3</span> - this gadget served fantastically! Completely replaced laptop on the go. It delivered quality music to my ears, GPS navigation, booked hotels and flights, served as language translator, managed bank accounts, took thousands photos and lots of 4k video footage which i'm gonna use one day. Absolutely awesome.<br />
There are things that annoyed me a little a bit too: display could be much brighter outdoors, real waterproof chassis would be great as well as much faster camera speed. And there's big personal complaint when driving - touch interface is so inconvenient that it's almost useless. I am aware that Note3 wasn't designed as bikers dream device but there must be some workaround available. To control device without touching. Touch screen just doesn't work well on bumpy Indonesian roads.<br />
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* <span style="font-size: large;">GPS Navigation</span> - I'm a huge fan of completely Off-Line maps for one big reason - I don't have to be constantly on-line when using them. Maps + gps chip = works like charm. FREE :)<br />
I used 2 applications: "Sygic" which worked just fine as main navigation system, Besides its little clunky interface and outdated POI, the Sygic never got me into trouble. And planning route is a pure pleasure.<br />
And "Maps.Me" which provided very detailed maps of area like for example at Toba lake which was stunningly accurate.<br />
When wifi - I used "google maps" for planning trip the next day. Too bad cannot download anything for offline use.<br />
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I also tested two other free navigation apps: "CoPilot" and "Navigator" but both of them were pretty bad. Very lagging interface and slow navigation made me give it up.<br />
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* <span style="font-size: large;">Nikon D90 + lens 18-200mm</span>. - Actually, I haven't used it much at all! What the hell! I became so lazy or...just more video obsessed? This camera served very well for many years but i think that's it. Time has come to move on. It was probably the final trip for my Nikon.</div>
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Honda PCX 150cc. Only 1 flat tire during whole 2 months trip! It happened in Georgetown and it was partially my fault. </div>
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for booking hotels I used: www.agoda.com or boooking.com . Worked great as usually.</div>
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"Maps.Me." in action on the ferry from Melaka > Dumai.<br />
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Sygic 3D view in Jakarta<br />
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the stylus of Note3 comes in handy quite often. But especially when I had to explain something to locals or ask for help :)</div>
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Photo above: evening set in Kanchanaburi resort. But why no beer on this picture?</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-74086118881875254082015-02-15T00:54:00.001-08:002015-02-15T00:54:44.405-08:00Kanchanaburi re-discovered<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
On the way back to Chiang Mai I stopped again in Kanchanaburi at the Kwai river. And this time I was really lucky. Found perfect mix of crystal clear weather, fantastic accommodation, good food and great thai people to socialize with. What else would I need? Maybe few more days to hang around the area.<br />
Sometimes second visit changes everything. I have a list of such places which grow on me over time. Bkk, Hua Hin, Hat Yai, Kanchanaburi.<br />
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Bungalow about 300m from THE bridge, built on the water with fantastic view and quiet environment. 350bht per night.</div>
borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-30776915075071273282015-01-12T02:51:00.000-08:002015-01-12T18:48:05.981-08:00Malaysian food<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Although the trip is over, I still have some stuff never published. That's one of them. Enjoy malaysian food.</div>
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pork burger in Georgetown nearby my guesthouse, The sandwich is huge! like a dinner. 60bht</div>
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classic Georgetown breakfast my style , "Boost" the best candy bar in Malaysia, it's imported from Australia.<br />
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Indian set in Georgetown, around 120bht, super tasty</div>
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rice fish soup for breakfast 40bht</div>
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western breakfast in chinese<br />
restaurant nearby my hotel, 90bht. Coffee similar to fresh Thai/Lao style, delicious set! </div>
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sweet & sour chicken noodles - my all time favorite asian dish. This one I found in chinese noodle shop and served with vegetable spring rolls. The best in town! 90bht<br />
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Chicken noodles with black pepper. Another favorite dish. 50bht.</div>
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homemade Tiramisu cake - pretty good! I bought it somewhere in Cameron Highlands. Expensive, about 60bht.<br />
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Noodles with curry paste (i think?) is served everywhere in Malaysia. It's nothing special though.<br />
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This was fantastic snack/meal! Pita butter bread + onion-pepper-spinach sauce. And milk tea. Only 40bht for all, tasty!</div>
borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-48569255020918914072014-12-18T06:41:00.000-08:002014-12-18T06:41:11.813-08:00random sHotS<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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cactus plantation at Cameron Highlands, Malaysia</div>
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Sibolga and Indian Ocean, West Sumatra</div>
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Switzerland? No no no, Toba Lake, Sumatra</div>
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Living Under Volcano, near Bukkitingi, Sumatra</div>
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tea plantation at Cameron Highlands, Malaysia</div>
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somewhere north of Hua Hin, Thailand</div>
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Georgetown, Malaysia</div>
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<span id="goog_1460798078"></span><span id="goog_1460798079"></span>tea shop at Cameron Highlands tea plantation, Malaysia</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-10700338909031785232014-12-17T00:55:00.003-08:002022-02-21T00:31:00.565-08:00How much for A DREAM ?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's the first time I kept approximate record of my expenses. I was very curious how much I'm gonna spend for all this trip. Bike trip! So here it is.<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>accommodation 22 500 bht</li>
<li>gas (distance 12.000km) 7100 bht</li>
<li>shipping bike fee Georgetown 12000 bht</li>
<li>shipping bike fee Belawan 7090 bht</li>
<li>carnet for bike 5650 bht</li>
<li>airasia Medan > Georgetown 1380 bht</li>
<li>indonesian visa 1500 bht</li>
<li>taxi to medan airport 818 bht</li>
<li>thai visa in Georgetown 1400 bht</li>
<li>bus Georgetown > Melaka 500 bht</li>
<li>bus Dumai > Medan 460 bht</li>
<li>ferry Melaka > Dumai 1000 bht </li>
</ul>
TOTAL COST: <b><span style="font-size: large;">61 400 bht ( 6400 PLN )</span></b><br />
(food expenses not included)<br />
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I estimate cost of food for about 1.5k bht. So It gives total amount about <b><span style="font-size: large;">80k bht.</span></b> I guess it's not too bad for 2 months trip to Indonesia :)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8Le0I2tVWw/VJFBzbJNgyI/AAAAAAAAFxw/QBbkVN3f3kU/s1600/20140813_174934%2B(Large).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8Le0I2tVWw/VJFBzbJNgyI/AAAAAAAAFxw/QBbkVN3f3kU/s1600/20140813_174934%2B(Large).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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bungalov, 1 day before arriving to Chiang Mai. Cost 390bht per night.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-58679741395680540942014-12-17T00:22:00.000-08:002014-12-17T00:22:00.038-08:00Back home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Arrived to Chiang Mai, trip is completed. It lasted exactly 60 days which is fine to catch a glimpse of Indonesia and definitely not enough to explore it deeper. But it was worth my time and every money. I plan to go back there in the future obviously. There's still thousands of other islands to visit!</div>
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Statistics will follow in the next post.</div>
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Anyway, good to be home.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-5968223407644017022014-12-11T20:38:00.000-08:002014-12-11T20:38:02.347-08:00awesome people of InDonesia<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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People I met in Indonesia, mostly in middle and south Sumatra, were absolutely amazing. Super kind, helpful and curious. Very easy to interact with especially that language is not too hard to learn. From my experience only Iranian people can rival them in terms of friendliness. </div>
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But does it mean that would I like to live among them? No. The islam set of rules is the answer.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOrUPoTuzcM/VER4ZEGkHmI/AAAAAAAAFWI/qyuSxnAlxdc/s1600/DSC_0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOrUPoTuzcM/VER4ZEGkHmI/AAAAAAAAFWI/qyuSxnAlxdc/s1600/DSC_0030.jpg" height="237" width="400" /></a></div>
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familiar scene - morning ceremony in Tuk Tuk at Toba lake. Just like in thai school.</div>
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mobile internet truck at the Toba lake. Gets the job done.</div>
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If I remember correctly I took this pic in Mae Sot. Border town, Myanmar style.</div>
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Cameron Highlands Tea. Malaysia.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2FQSfJa130/VER5jNIQ0yI/AAAAAAAAFYo/3eVLk0039GY/s1600/DSC_0207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2FQSfJa130/VER5jNIQ0yI/AAAAAAAAFYo/3eVLk0039GY/s1600/DSC_0207.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>
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Mae Sot. Thailand. Interesting mix of thai and Myanmar people. Lots of Muslims too.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-30986673797342553772014-12-11T20:35:00.000-08:002014-12-11T20:37:12.589-08:00Medan > Penang<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
On the way back to Malaysia I used the same agent as before. Extremely helpful and kind "the shipping guy" Mr Adnan. I had a chance to meet his family and few friends. And socialize a bit so the whole day of preparing my bike was fun and great experience.<br />
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While the bike was shipped by boat, I decided to take the airplane to Penang via AirAsia. (1380bht). I chose to fly due to pure <b>FEAR</b> of dying in a random bus crash somewhere on way to nearest ferry pier - in Dumai. :-)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t7M9T4VX4dY/VH6OyJI5gYI/AAAAAAAAFrc/LsIfgv33CNI/s1600/20140804_091130%2B(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t7M9T4VX4dY/VH6OyJI5gYI/AAAAAAAAFrc/LsIfgv33CNI/s1600/20140804_091130%2B(Large).jpg" height="278" width="400" /></a></div>
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the last meal on Sumatra was an amazing one. Too bad I can't say the same about the price - almost 200bht! in the street restaurant, wtf!?!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U1q1co75E4s/VH6OyLbgwWI/AAAAAAAAFrY/p-gj1Zu81JM/s1600/20140804_101908%2B(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U1q1co75E4s/VH6OyLbgwWI/AAAAAAAAFrY/p-gj1Zu81JM/s1600/20140804_101908%2B(Large).jpg" height="245" width="400" /></a></div>
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"office" of shipping agent :-)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9jkKnU2kZ0/VH6Owy40N4I/AAAAAAAAFrQ/aQlBpVhuCv0/s1600/20140804_124116%2B(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9jkKnU2kZ0/VH6Owy40N4I/AAAAAAAAFrQ/aQlBpVhuCv0/s1600/20140804_124116%2B(Large).jpg" height="241" width="400" /></a></div>
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familiar boat waiting to ship my Honda</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSabahcn6cM/VH6OzVqlGNI/AAAAAAAAFro/W0wTyCK5m2I/s1600/20140805_113616%2B(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSabahcn6cM/VH6OzVqlGNI/AAAAAAAAFro/W0wTyCK5m2I/s1600/20140805_113616%2B(Large).jpg" height="253" width="400" /></a></div>
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Medan Airport</div>
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Penang harbour! Honda PCX happily returned to Malaysia. There is still few thousands km to go though.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-76212824436909359182014-12-02T20:10:00.000-08:002014-12-03T00:44:51.507-08:00mini loop on Java<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I left Jakarta heading for the west coast.<br />
And how stunning that route it is! Especially the part from Jakarta > Bogor > Labuhan. Except for insane traffic - all Indonesians going on holidays after Ramadan - everything on the way is quite spectacular. There's even more volcanoes in one place than I have seen on Sumatra. Excellent indeed.<br />
Two highlights worth mentioning:<br />
- Bogor - stylish old town north of Jakarta resembling Bukkitingi. Looks like perfect spot to hang around for day or two.<br />
- west coast of Java with hundreds of resorts and gazillion of tourists. Pretty exhausting and intense experience on its own but with super friendly people. Too bad view of Krakatoa volcano from inland is not possible.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ETvWGNEnPo8/VH6KnAFasiI/AAAAAAAAFqs/dmJ0LurKwbE/s1600/20140729_063333%2B(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ETvWGNEnPo8/VH6KnAFasiI/AAAAAAAAFqs/dmJ0LurKwbE/s1600/20140729_063333%2B(Large).jpg" height="215" width="400" /></a></div>
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random shot on the west coast of Java. I think it's the only one I took in that area.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hfVTRxWZqaw/VH6KlcChzgI/AAAAAAAAFqk/bGbYqhJVSQM/s1600/20140729_071305%2B(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hfVTRxWZqaw/VH6KlcChzgI/AAAAAAAAFqk/bGbYqhJVSQM/s1600/20140729_071305%2B(Large).jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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new Lighthouse built next to the old one</div>
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ruins of old Lighthouse destroyed by tsunami from Krakatoa eruption in 1883</div>
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on thr ferry to Sumatra</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-17100467575349382152014-12-02T17:40:00.005-08:002014-12-02T17:40:53.445-08:00Jakarta > Chiang Mai<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Now, Chiang Mai is my new destination :-). Check out below.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AKKgsb8z4J0/VH5pjrPY3BI/AAAAAAAAFqM/kMeBDcLsfWs/s1600/bogor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AKKgsb8z4J0/VH5pjrPY3BI/AAAAAAAAFqM/kMeBDcLsfWs/s1600/bogor.jpg" height="296" width="400" /></a></div>
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Java > Sumatra</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BtLf7KkzW94/VH5pj7r0l8I/AAAAAAAAFqQ/t46MY_82KUo/s1600/penang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BtLf7KkzW94/VH5pj7r0l8I/AAAAAAAAFqQ/t46MY_82KUo/s1600/penang.jpg" height="400" width="295" /></a></div>
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Sumatra > Malaysia</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-67582091465422797822014-12-02T17:27:00.001-08:002014-12-02T17:27:25.432-08:00NOT so pretty Jakarta<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Arrived to Jakarta! on the scooter from Thailand. Done. </div>
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Mega city Jakarta is now on my personal ranking chart as the second ugliest capital city I have seen. And what's the first one then? ...Ulan Baatar :-)</div>
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There isn't much to write about this place. It looks kind of boring and dead. Just a big city full of government buildings and strange monuments. Dirty and chaotic. While I don't mind dirtiness and chaos the real pain is lack of "food" infrastructure. Not too many coffee shops, food stalls or restaurants where you can sit and chill out. The end of Ramadan could be the reason though.</div>
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I stayed in pretty decent room at Twins Hotel near the train station for 22 USD per night. Booked on www.agoda.com.</div>
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exotic local food in Jakarta :)</div>
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main street #1</div>
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main street #2</div>
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the meaningless obelisk in the middle of huge park</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-66766211468154564462014-11-07T21:20:00.001-08:002014-11-16T16:53:42.817-08:00Jakarta THE final destination?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Well, it seems that Jakarta city will be as far as I go this trip. Many things happened and must go back home sooner than expected. 4 months trip has been reduced down to 2 months only.<br />
Bye Bye Bali, bye bye Timor East. See you next time maybe!<br />
Keep going to Jakarta now. Cheers!</div>
borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-62379356761560088672014-11-07T03:23:00.000-08:002014-11-07T03:23:03.026-08:00Indonesia - FOOD<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I am not impressed by the indo food. Quality and price are just not right. Ramadan situation doesn't help either. But what do I know? I've tasted only fraction of available dishes so far.</div>
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Few thoughts:</div>
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- prices are usually higher than in Thailand. For example: bowl of rice + medium size chicken leg can cost up to 150bht. I'm talking about street prices here, nothing fancy!</div>
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- noodle soups are bland. Don't compare to thai or chinese counterparts. They're just worse.</div>
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- grilled chicken can be very tasty. They cook it in some nice mixture of herbs and spices. Very good!</div>
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- no cheap beer! The Heineken 0.33l costs 60bht. Selection is awfully limited.</div>
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- Chocolate products are not that bad. Taste is much better than paper-ish fake thai chocolate.</div>
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- good coffee, i mean not "instant" is hard to find. Tea is everywhere.</div>
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not so delicious noodles with meat balls + orange juice with lots of sugar. Set costs around 80bht.</div>
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"ghoreni noodles" - the most popular dish throughout Sumatra. It comes with rice if you want. Pretty cheap, served with potato chips (!?!?). Tastes OK.</div>
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small apple pancakes + black tea. That was unexpected breakfast in one of hotels somewhere in Sungai Penuh land. The prime suspect for getting food poisoned the very next day.<br />
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chicken curry, rice and vegetables. Pretty good but not cheap. More than 150bht for set.<br />
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the vege soup on the upper left was yummmy! all the rest was meeeeh...</div>
borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-22063726628984547002014-10-12T22:09:00.001-07:002014-10-14T03:21:48.269-07:00Sumatra > Java crossing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I didn't feel to well for the last few days. I guess Ramadan fastening took its toll on my weakened body. I've spent 3 days on recovery in Bandar Lampung hotel room. This is bordering town to Java island.</div>
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Hotel "Adel" in downtown charged 1500bht per night. This was the most expensive accommodation so far. But I really needed it. The room was well worth the price if you don't mind the strong cigarette stench inside.</div>
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The ferry crossing is pretty straightforward. Surprisingly not even too crowdy or expensive. However the trip takes almost full day. So I reached Java very later afternoon and immediately hit the local road straight to Jakarta.</div>
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There is fascinating place between Sumatra and Java. It's "Krakatoa" volcano, famous from its 1883yr huge eruption, followed by tsunami. Full documentary here <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crlGbGbWKvo">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crlGbGbWKvo</a> . I hope to get better look at this whole caldera from Java coast.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-61401843793742549032014-09-29T17:16:00.000-07:002014-09-29T17:16:02.951-07:00Sungai Penuh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I found Sungai Penuh it in the middle of Sumatra. It looks like Cameron Highlands of Indonesia. It is stunning. Volcanoes are majestic, the weather is crystal clear and obviously people are super friendly. Wish I had more time to hang around. To socialize with locals and enjoy numerous lakes in the area.</div>
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One of the highlights is Mt. Kerimci - the highest Volcano of Indonesia. The route itself deserves a separate chapter it was that incredible. Too bad I didn't take many pictures. In fact I was too busy appreciating the beauty and having fun riding along the Kerimci valley. One of the best rides I've done so far EVER.</div>
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Tea plantation, same as in Cameron Highlands in Malaysia.</div>
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There's volcano Mt Kerimci on the horizon. IT's truly the king of all volcanoes on Sumatra. The last eruption happened just year ego.<br />
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Gas price: 16 bht per little. Laughable :) It's bloody 1.6 polish zloty! And the quality is passable, the bike still running.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-40982299728315892014-09-29T05:33:00.000-07:002014-10-10T08:58:25.929-07:00Ramadan situation...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Travelling while Ramadan is definitely not the best idea but it's quite interesting experience nevertheless.</div>
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Ramadan lasts one month and it's about people who decided NOT to eat or drink during a daytime. And you actually must follow the rules whether you like it or not.</div>
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So how's the experience? Well, it's frustrating. You know, when I'm hungry I'm angry! :)</div>
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Between 7am-7pm most roadside restaurants or food stalls are closed so chances for a hot meal are ZERO. But even If you're lucky to buy anything, eating in public is not welcome. I've been literally kicked off few times from public spots like waterfall or town square because of it. You practically left to starve whole day until restaurants open in the evening. But even though they're open, you can't eat too much at that time, you just simply too tired after 8-10 hours of struggle with insane traffic. After lunch you go back hotel and try to rest, catch sleep BUT your stomach can't. It's busy all night digesting food you've just consumed. Well...viva Ramadan!</div>
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And that's the real beauty of travelling. You can't experience these things watching Discovery channel on your couch. Obviously Ramadan is yet another ridiculous religion habit to my collection, this time from Indonesia. BTW Iran, Turkey, Kirghistan and Mongolia have their own fair share in this collection too :-)</div>
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3..2..1...GO! It's 7pm and you must eat as much as you can! Situation in the local fast food "texas chicken restaurant". After hour or so, the venue is empty, customers go home. </div>
borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-7095449203167760462014-09-20T20:57:00.002-07:002014-09-20T20:57:54.320-07:00Bukkit Tingi & Sibolga<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I left beautiful Toba lake and hit the road to the west coast of Sumatra. I found two nice places on the way which I can highly recommend: </div>
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Sibolga - very remote, small harbour city at the Indian Ocean, with nice beaches and relaxing atmosphere.</div>
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Bukkittingi - small charming town in the mountainous area in the middle of Sumatra. Surrounded by many lakes and volcanoes.</div>
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And most of all - truly fantastic people everywhere! So far it's even better than friendliness of Iran people. Really impressed.</div>
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Sibolga beach with many resorts along the way. But room prices starts from 800bht. Expensive.</div>
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main square of Bukkitingi at nighttime</div>
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one of the nearby lakes within 50km range from Bukkittingi. It's a must see in my opinion.<br />
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breakfast set at the lake. I'am more and more impressed by the quality of chocolate snacks in Indonesia. Many of them are really decent quality. However prices are not so nice, the nestle "bear" brand milk - 40bht (twice as more as in Thailand).<br />
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Bukkitingi at daylight. The air is very clear at this place due to high altitude. Feels almost like mountains.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-10183453876441902014-09-17T20:25:00.001-07:002014-09-17T20:25:09.793-07:00Indonesian traffic remarks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
- many roads are in pretty good shape, some are even western Europe quality. Some are crappy but it's actually minority so far<br />
- I have to be super careful and watch out for the big potholes, popping up out of nowhere<br />
- sometimes amount of traffic is insane, especially in the cities. Every town I am passing through has its own traffic jam<br />
- drivers are constantly honking like crazy. I started doing the same. But honking is rather a warning sign than bitching about bad road behavior.<br />
- gas stations are everywhere. My canister is needless accessory so far.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W-qYdVmr_lI/VBll_MZuZfI/AAAAAAAAFGY/PUmQs9YN5SE/s1600/20140721_160949_Richtone(HDR).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W-qYdVmr_lI/VBll_MZuZfI/AAAAAAAAFGY/PUmQs9YN5SE/s1600/20140721_160949_Richtone(HDR).jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-62718635615155720732014-09-10T21:10:00.001-07:002014-09-10T21:10:20.491-07:00plan for Sumatra Island<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Here is my plan for Sumatra island.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XaUbUapXKvU/VBEf7JNRVBI/AAAAAAAAFCw/yrGyZ8HeckI/s1600/sumatra%2Bmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XaUbUapXKvU/VBEf7JNRVBI/AAAAAAAAFCw/yrGyZ8HeckI/s1600/sumatra%2Bmap.jpg" height="377" width="400" /></a></div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-52512448068497574712014-09-07T17:39:00.001-07:002014-09-10T21:17:20.986-07:00Toba lake<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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If I were to choose a favorite place in Indonesia so far it would be Toba Lake. IT is magnificent. IT is massive. IT is quiet. And it is the only not muslim place on the island which means people are relaxed. Just for my taste. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JQj674kpNVk/U__ZYpZJ-9I/AAAAAAAAE5I/mOdBOEaBZfw/s1600/20140715_145803_Richtone(HDR).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JQj674kpNVk/U__ZYpZJ-9I/AAAAAAAAE5I/mOdBOEaBZfw/s1600/20140715_145803_Richtone(HDR).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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One of volcanos near TOba. It's HDR mode of Samsung Galaxy Note3. Looks fake but shows situation nicely.</div>
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It is mindblowing when you think that the lake and islands were the massive volcanic CALDERA in the past. Almost surreal.</div>
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view from my balcony</div>
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the room I found in Tuk Tuk town is very basic but...the price 35000 Rupii which is 100bht. /10 polish pln!/. And it has wifi signal too. Wow! Although area is affected with casual blackouts it doesn't matter for that price. The restaurant serves good and cheap meals, view is awesome and many convenience stores around. The guesthouse owner said than some customers are staying for few months in there. Super relaxing place, good for remote work too. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TRdQY7VgIxk/U__ZdgxHcLI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/3gIVXdhloBU/s1600/20140715_112906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TRdQY7VgIxk/U__ZdgxHcLI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/3gIVXdhloBU/s1600/20140715_112906.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
In Thailand I use to have a break for a small beer. In Malaysia and Indonesia I had to change my habit. Now it's a tea time :-) Maybe for the better.<br />
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WTF? "Zwierciadlo" polish magazine in guesthouse at Toba lake? I found out that was brought by polish couple who stayed there 1 month. They were fishing and cooking every day, at least what owner said. Polish fellows everywhere :)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xG5TAlJ2-g4/U__bR9ctTXI/AAAAAAAAE6I/J10UfR9xg7M/s1600/20140716_180312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xG5TAlJ2-g4/U__bR9ctTXI/AAAAAAAAE6I/J10UfR9xg7M/s1600/20140716_180312.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
Toba Lake area is populated by "Batak" people. And those are their housing style. It must have been straight inspiration for George Lucas Star Wars IV part - for vehicle of these little desert creatures, droid hunters. You remember? Same same design :)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fllKEDqTJrQ/U__b44Fr5vI/AAAAAAAAE6g/Z2lcUXhwgw8/s1600/20140718_085643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fllKEDqTJrQ/U__b44Fr5vI/AAAAAAAAE6g/Z2lcUXhwgw8/s1600/20140718_085643.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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view on Tuk Tuk village from the ferry sailing back to mainland. Tuk Tuk is located on the island of Lake Toba. </div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-42715112735224463772014-09-07T17:39:00.000-07:002014-09-07T17:39:18.089-07:00into the West Coast of Sumatra<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Tomorrow I am leaving for the west coast of Sumatra. There's lots of to see on the way. Including TOba lake and many many Volcanos. I can't say that I got used to insane traffic in Medan. It is a process, it will take some time :)<br />
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By the way, accomodation in Medan is relatively cheap - I found the room opposite big Mosque for about 450bht. including not too fast wifi and "smelly" aircon. Not bad. However it took me a while to find it.</div>
borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-54777812793580775472014-09-01T01:25:00.001-07:002014-09-01T02:03:14.136-07:00Honda PCX in MEdan! YEaah!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b>Medan</b> is the place where I picked up my bike. Actually it's<b> BElawan</b> - the sea port 20km from MEdan.</div>
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And everything went smoothly thx to help of Mr Adnan from local shipping agency. Procedures took almost full day and included such amazing activities like "waiting in the customs" for few hours, clearing up the papers, bike inspection etc. :)</div>
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And at the end custom officers were not happy at all. Opportunity for easy money from "rich tourist" has been lost. My bike papers were too perfect :)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-23a85DMBUy0/U_yVj6cYS7I/AAAAAAAAE04/7cljbbSTND4/s1600/2014-08-06%2B14.18.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-23a85DMBUy0/U_yVj6cYS7I/AAAAAAAAE04/7cljbbSTND4/s1600/2014-08-06%2B14.18.48.jpg" height="257" width="400" /></a></div>
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Inside the mosque nearby my hotel. Seems like good place to take a nap for some individuals.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rI-OI2EAqQQ/U_yVjaRFbcI/AAAAAAAAE00/2UlkJEKYynw/s1600/2014-08-06%2B14.19.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rI-OI2EAqQQ/U_yVjaRFbcI/AAAAAAAAE00/2UlkJEKYynw/s1600/2014-08-06%2B14.19.54.jpg" height="242" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ramadan situation. There will be separate post about this "peculiar event".</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HizVgzFdWIc/U_yVjgwPOmI/AAAAAAAAE08/_E_rgK0uz-s/s1600/2014-08-06%2B14.22.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HizVgzFdWIc/U_yVjgwPOmI/AAAAAAAAE08/_E_rgK0uz-s/s1600/2014-08-06%2B14.22.31.jpg" height="296" width="400" /></a></div>
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as i said before, must be very careful when walking around town</div>
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RAmadan 7pm, muslims are allowed to eat</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xMHn6e0Bylg/U_yXK9iyIxI/AAAAAAAAE2E/e4IUDAjhRqY/s1600/20140713_151033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xMHn6e0Bylg/U_yXK9iyIxI/AAAAAAAAE2E/e4IUDAjhRqY/s1600/20140713_151033.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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one of the first things i check in every new country - chocolate. This one was surprisingly acceptable! much above domestic Thailand quality. But the research must be continued :)</div>
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flat tire on the way to BElawan. It took 10 min to change the whole wheel. </div>
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YEaah! Honda PCX waiting in the warehouse, ready to conquer IndoCountry!</div>
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Mr Adnan, very helpful and super friendly guy. His commision is twice cheaper than Mr Lim in Malaysia. But full statistics will come in later post.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-42689629035777374402014-08-29T00:16:00.001-07:002014-08-29T00:16:05.391-07:00Bus drivers from HELL<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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(!@#*&*^ !!! Daaaamn. To make it short: I had absolute nightmare BUS trip from Dumai to Medan. </div>
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It was an overnight bus, 2 drivers. And their driving style absolutely scared shit out of me. It was unbelievable how fast they could ride on a tight, bumpy road with lots of night traffic on. With half damaged suspension and shitty breaks btw. They were racing with other trucks, passing them on 3rd, 4th lane, on side roads...sorry there are no side roads! and so on. Few times we were just inches from hitting the other vehicle. And I was sitting at the front seat watching (experiencing?) it all so I also know that one bastard driver was clearly falling asleep while riding 80km/h. What the f*** !</div>
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I don't know, maybe I'am getting older and more sensitive about these things but really, never had such hell of a trip in my life. Including Mongolia, Kirgistan or China. Indonesia style beats them all! I just couldn't wait to get on my own bike in Medan and show them all BIG middle finger afterwards. </div>
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Because of this trip I decided to take a plane instead on the way back to Malaysia in few weeks.</div>
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ferry pier in Indonesia. So far so good!</div>
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Bus from hell! Notice, fully rugged front window. In case of rocks, angry pedestrians or other debris on the road.</div>
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Nice people except for the guy on the left which was...not so nice. His brainwashing is completed. He is gonna be a loyal jihad warrior in the future.</div>
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the last few tens of kilometers before Medan. At that time I was just wasted beyond believe. And pissed.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-68208282684529133322014-08-29T00:05:00.001-07:002014-08-29T00:05:08.562-07:00Indonesia, VERY first impressions<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<li>customs officers at border helpful and friendly</li>
<li>muslim style everywhere</li>
<li>dirty streets with lots of pot holes and sink holes</li>
<li>lots of traffic</li>
<li>so so food</li>
<li>more expensive than expected</li>
<li>and lots of beautiful woman</li>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5241524097956511943.post-51189940415210569612014-08-26T05:43:00.001-07:002014-08-28T20:46:18.602-07:00Melaka > Dumai ferry<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Ok, bike is on the boat heading to Belawan. But what about me? I chose to go by ferry. It is far more relaxing than airplane and I will get the chance to check MElaka city - second biggest post colonial place in MAlaysia. There's a daily service to Dumai. So first I had I take a bus to MElaka. </div>
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Melaka looked beautiful at night with lots of cafees and restaurants in old town area - reminds a lot like Georgetown but seems more tidy and compact. But obviously one night is not enough for this city. It deserves second visit for sure.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1F7VgLFjATg/U_xYecv_ZcI/AAAAAAAAE0U/EJ4i2dRnWTI/s1600/2014-08-06%2B14.02.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1F7VgLFjATg/U_xYecv_ZcI/AAAAAAAAE0U/EJ4i2dRnWTI/s1600/2014-08-06%2B14.02.28.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Melaka > Dumai 1000bht, trip takes around 3 hours only.</div>
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borys skatulskihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118544039591647122noreply@blogger.com0