Ladies, ladies, ladies. What is our problem? Seriously. Why must we hate on each other? Without so much as a “hello” or “my name is…” we’re giving — or in my case, getting — the death stare, straight out the gate. And if there’s a guy nearby… it might as well be game over, because one thing’s for sure — you won’t be having a good time. Not a chance. Well, unless they get drunk. Then you’re looking at 50/50. And if they do suddenly swing the other direction, watch out, because you’ll have a new best friend in no time, only they won’t remember your name by morning. As part of the minority, I don’t understand this behavior, but I see it all the time.
So, where am I going with this? Well, seeing as how I’m the only solo female on the island, as far as I can tell, I’ve received my fair share of mean mugs since stepping off the boat. I shrug it off, because I know good and well that I’m not trying to snatch their other halves, but I have to admit that it’s mildly annoying. So, if you’re reading this and guilt is setting in, please stop. Make it your new years resolution to be a better human — or at least better to your own kind. We’re on the same team, remember?!
Thankfully, it simmered down by day 2 — probably when they realized I won’t be traipsing around in a tiny bikini. Once we had that settled, the atmosphere was quite lovely and I genuinely enjoyed getting to know some of the other guests. As much as I love my space, it’s nice to break out of the bubble every so often.
When it came time to depart, I was up with the sun, repacked my bag — something I’m tired of doing — and headed down a dirt path in search of a boat. After much back-and-forth, I enlisted the help of two young boys, who agreed to ferry me to Lombok at a reasonable rate. I put down the rupiah, one reached for my larger pack, which I was happy to pass off, and we were set. It was low tide, so we had a long, wet walk ahead of us. First my ankles, then my knees, and eventually up to my waist with my small pack held high above my head, hoping nothing slips out.
While the boat had plenty of character, words like “sturdy, safe, and reliable” did not come to mind. Quite the opposite, actually. I climbed inside, assessing the gaps between floorboards and a handful of holes on the sides, then peering ahead at our destination — a small speck, far off in the distance. I paused momentarily, thinking to myself, “I guess you get what you pay for…” but recognizing there was no time to waste, for I had a plane to catch and dragons to chase, with a clock that was running away. So, with that in mind, I shrugged my shoulders and said, “f it.” At least I can swim.
