Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Day 36 - Lembar, Lombok, Indonesia

We got up this morning in time for a sunrise over Lombok. The tender operation was running late when we got to the Queen's Lounge to meet for our 7:30 tour. It started about 45 minutes late. The tender ride was about 15 minutes. Once on board the air-conditioned bus, we set out for Mataram, the capital city. Our first stop was at the Nussa Teggara Barat Museum. Outside were lots of vendors trying to sell you any and everything. Next we went to the Sayang Art Market, where we bought a few souvenirs. The vendors kept up with us at each stop, hopping on their scooters and getting there before our bus. Next was a pearl shop, where Glenda's favorite was, surprisingly, the most expensive. We did not buy anything. Then we went to Lingsar, a large temple complex built in 1714. There were sections for Hindu, Buddhist, and Islam worship. It was very hot and humid, but with a nice breeze. When we got to the dock to wait on a tender back to the ship, it started raining, which cooled it off a bit. Back on board, we went up for the sail away and missed bingo. Then we went back to the cabin to get ready for Mardi Gras night. The dining room was decorated and the waiters were in costume. There were beads for us on the table and the food had a New Orleans theme. After dinner, we went up to the Crow's Nest where the party was from 10 to 11. Lots of decorations and costumes. Tomorrow we go to see the Komodo dragons.