It was Liebling’s idea to go to Lembongan island for three days. Lembongan is only a 45-minute speedboat ride away from Bali. I had initially resisted going for a few reasons; based on what I read online, the island was tiny with little to do, and the rough boat ride over there is reputed to leave its passengers weak and queasy. I wasn’t sure that I was up to the challenge. Then I saw pictures and, dazzled by the beauty of the place, grudgingly acquiesced to Liebling’s wishes…I boarded the boat, not looking very forward to getting on a “vomit comet”. But, despite some rough patches, I was able to hold on to the contents of my stomach and even enjoy some parts of the ride, for the beautiful scenery we roared past lifted my spirits. But my heart soared when we disembarked and saw the following:

Talk about an amazing first impression. We were giddy with excitement and couldn’t wait to see what else Lembongan island would have in store for us.

Lauren Pope