Wish You Were Here
INDONESIA: Michael and Trudie Bradford from Walnut Creek recently visited Bali, where they saw the pilgrimage temple of Pura Tanah Lot, which is only accessible at low tide, but can be seen at any time from shore, Trudie says. “It is one of many beautiful temples located on the island of Bali, all of which are a worthwhile visit. Also a must to visit are the picturesque rice fields such as Jatiluwih rice terrace, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the west side of the island, and the Tegalalang rice terrace just outside the town of Ubud. Bali offers lots of spectacular photographic opportunities. The Balinese are very friendly and most speak English.”
TRAVEL TIPS: “The Ubud area is a convenient spot for overnight accommodations, as it is centrally located for sightseeing. We would recommend a day guide, as you will need transport to visit many of the sights — the independent guides we found online were reliable, inexpensive, and many allow you to customize your sightseeing. Also, if you like animal encounters, the Ubud Monkey Forest and Elephant Safari Park are a lot of fun. We fed the monkeys and rode an elephant. You will have to wear a sarong to visit some of the temples — they are available for cheap rental (about 75 cents) at the temples. There are ATMs in Ubud; it is advisable to get cash for the sightseeing entries. Be prepared for high humidity and sudden rain showers.”
OREGON: Gene and Barbara Amaral, left, of Union City and Gail and Howard Jensen, right, of Cupertino visited Multnomah Falls on a recent Columbia River Cruise. This year the falls were very active due to the heavy rainfall.
TRAVEL TIP: “The trip to the falls was a super adventure,” Gail says. “They sell wonderful fudge right at the falls. Consider disposable parkas to anticipate the rain and wear sturdy shoes, because it gets very slippery hiking up to the observation area.”
MEXICO: Redwood City’s Waite family — Jeff, Angelique, Cole and Hope — visited San Jose Del Cabo this spring and stayed at the Cabo Azul resort, pictured. TRAVEL TIPS: “Plan for a dinner at Flora Farms,” Jeff says. “On Thursday nights, check out the art and street walk in central San Jose Del Cabo.”
Share your travels with us! Send your vacation selfies to kbennett@bayareanewsgroup.com. Be sure to tell us who’s who, where they’re from and where you are — and include a couple of travel tips to help fellow readers globe-trot, too. Find more Wish You Were Here features at www.mercurynews. com/tag/wish-you-were-here.