Sad to be Leaving Sumatra

Fun, Games and Sore Feet

Our last day on the island saw a cloudy and drizzly day, although still warm. We had intended a lazy day so we weren't too upset although sunbathing was limited.

We had a walk and a couple of swims. The sea is less calm than before but maybe a bit more fun with the big waves.

We've being playing cards and taught the guide 7s last night. James also brought a set of monopoly deal cards which is fun, follows the basics of monopoly without, so far anyway, descending into a massive row. James has also been beating the guide at chess, watching them play I remembered why I don't play James! He's far too good. There was a discovered check which won the game for James taking a rook and knight, if only he focused this much in other areas of his life.

Both myself and James have had to resort to the socks and sandals fashion statement as sandals on their own rub our coral injuries and is agony. They'd become slightly infected but fortunately have healed with antibac cream and tablets.

Leaving Palambak on Scary Seas

We've loved the stay on Palambak Island and will be sad to leave, it really is an amazing place with lovely people.

The boat journey to the island was a bit hairy and this was repeated on the way out. There was a storm overnight which had slightly cleared in the day. It was still windy so some uncertainty over whether we could leave but the boat arrived and we set off. Within 2 minutes we were all soaked and a bit shaken. The waves were massive and the water continued to come in. The boat seemed to stay at the top of waves for an age before crashing down. I think the captain thought it was a tricky crossing as it took 2 &1/2 hours compared to there 1 and 1/2 coming. We also had two mid-sea stops for him to refuel and at one baling out water whilst we seemed precariously going up and down with the waves.

Back on land all the concrete and roads were a shock to our system, but as we drove lots of locals waved to/at us which made us feel good.

We arrived in at the hotel all looking forward to showers and ensuites sadly though they are in a separate block but at least proper showers with hot water.

As we were waiting for breakfast a couple came back from the harbour as their boat to the island had been cancelled due to the weather and they were told unlikely to go today. There was a family due to leave the Island resort today so we guess they are stuck as well. It made us realise we had been lucky our boat captain had agreed to take us yesterday.

Getting to Medan

We set off for Medan in the rain. This was a 7 hour journey with a stop off in Berastagi to say goodbye to the guides. They have been incredible on this trip, it felt more like three mates enjoying themselves along with us, over the more lecturing style we've had at some points over the years. They gave us each a blanket made in the traditional Batak style.

After saying our goodbyes we arrived in Medan to a new hotel ahead of our journey to Kuala Lumpur tomorrow.