13th May

after days of feeling rough, severe diahrea encourages a visit to the local hospital. examination by a young doctor and 6 young nurses with covered heads, diagnoses flu and stomach bug. I could have done that myself but good to have second opinion. midicne cost 58000RP ($6) consultation 17000 (less than $2). He has given me vitamines too, I am run down. last few days routine has been sleep and more sleep.
A bit sick of the bathroom situation outside the room, having to pour cold water off a trough to flush the loo or to take shower. Need a little more comfort right now.

 
15th

very bad night last night, disturbed, noisy, windy, Ulrich informs me there is big storm in the mediterranean. Very disappointing as I managed to get to bed before midnight and was also feeling a little better, hoping I can finally get rid of this flu.

Yesterday being Friday was very noisy.
the mosques were calling most of the day.

I am annoyed that I have not taken better care of myself, Bukkittinggi is not as warm as other places I have been to and having cold showers has not been good. it has been drizzling for a few days, English weather.

Even today I was tempted to just jump on the  bus and get to Lake Mininjau my next target, only an hour away but managed to resist the temptation. Coming across the road with my backpack seemed strenous, the virus is still fighting back.

chatting to another Aussie environmental scientist I find a hotel across the street with hot water for 85000RP and move across. two days ago I went to about 8 hotels while feeling quite unwell and could not find anything for less than 150000. I have a very large light twin bedded room, the window overlooks another building which I hope will block some of the noise.

Earplugs are on the shopping list. Essential in SE Asia, while on public transport or just to sleep.

probably head for Lake Minanjau tomorrow, but will also need to do something about my visa extension if I want to stay in Indonesia longer.

I have been here for over two weeks now and most of it has been pretty lazy stuff.