City tour today! But not walking, we had the luxury to be taken around on rickshaws. We had many rickshaws with some being very different to ones we have risen in the past. There were even motors on some of them. Isn't that cheating?! On we hopped and first stop was at a Batik (Traditional Indonesian clothing) factory! Step by step we watched the process of this fascinating industry. In short they used pencil designs which then were traced, waxed and dipped to created these wonderful items of clothing! It was cool. There was a shop at the end and we all know what that means. Another 30 minutes extra for the girls to look around. Back on our rickshaw and next up was batik paintings, so the same process but onto material as a painting. I am a big painting fan so I was very interested. However Laura came out with one which was awesome and will be on her wall in no time! The Kings Palace next. It is called Sultan's Palace. A tour guide took us through and explained the history behind the King and his previous family. Very interesting. Once again swarmed by a local school wanting pictures with us. It felt like we were famous. Click, click! Onwards. Lunch was eaten in a local house which provided amazing Nasi Goreng (Indonesian friend rice), enough to fill the stomach. Water palace next and this was where the King bathed and swam with his wives. From here you could see a good view of one of the volcanic mountains in Indonesia. In a few days we will be hiking Mount Bromo so It was good to see. To finish of the day we hustled and bustled through the local market which was nice to see but full of tourist rubbish. Really good tour of the city and back we went to the hotel. Another swim and few lengths done, dinner time. Wondered to a local bar for dinner where Greg decided to get on the stage and sing with the band. Was a good laugh as there we some translation difficulties. To be fair I could never have done that so good effort Greg! Night!
