Indonesia, here we are! Uf harbour on Kei Kecil Island, Maluku.
What a welcome we received as part of the 'Sail to Indonesia 2022' rally. Raymond, the Indonesian organiser and agent for our visas, has done a wonderful job, along with the local tourism staff.
Customs, Immigration and Port Authority officers came to Uf from Tual, the main entry point for the island of Kei Kecil, to process all of us. Not really a smooth process, what with the officers suffering from seasickness as they attended to the boats. The officers hung in there one more day but then it was decided that we should take the paperwork to them. Eventually we were all cleared and the celebrations began.
the customs and immigration team
The local Regent and various officials met with us all at the dock and officially welcomed us. We were grouped together in our nationalities, as several foreigners aside from us Aussies had also joined the rally. Clouds of balloons in red and white were released into the air and school children lined the dock holding flags from the different countries we represented. They were tickled pink when we waved, shook hands and had photos taken with them. Due to covid travel restrictions, I wonder if some of the younger children had actually ever seen a white person, or 'bola putih' as we are known. We were also treated to a snake dance display with local musicians and female dancers flanking them.
The aussie contingent
the Regent giving official welcome speech
We were then whisked away in cars to the local village where the festivities continued. The main street was festooned with fluttering flags and a long covered area with rows of seating for us to enjoy more of the talents of the local community. Two of our lovely ladies, Carol and Lyndell, were introduced to the King and his Lady and recieved locally crafted scarves as part of the welcome. Carol has requested that she now be addressed as Princess and is working on an appropriate tiara.
The village showed us an amazing array of talented young people in group performances. We felt very privileged at the lengths they all went to with their welcome. And the photos. Everyone wanted a selfie with us, celebrities that we are 😁. As a group, singley, with their toddlers, with the oldies, you name it, we were in the thick of it. It was so funny, endearing and flattering at the same time. I think some of the kids were touching my blonde hair too, judging by the occasional tug I felt.
Lyndell and Carol meeting the King and his Lady
There was an awesome buffet put on for us at the Regent's house. There were all sorts of local culinary delights, from whole fish to chicken satay to local vegetables and salads. I was very intrigued with the seaweed dish with little jelly-like bubbles that popped when you bit them. Fish spawn, otherwise known as caviar, I believe.
The festivities continued after lunch with a dancing extravaganza. It was very hard to refuse as we were dragged up to learn their dance style. I have to say, we caused them great laughter and delight at our efforts to dance with their grace and rhythm.
After much hilarity shared and friendships made, we were driven to a beautiful surf beach close to the village. It's an area they are just starting to develop as a tourist spot for both locals and foreigners. It was very beautiful, with turquoise waves crashing to shore and the whitest of white foam being thrown into the air. Maybe not the spot for a little dip in the water but it's mesmerising to watch.
It was a huge day of celebrations and we were all blown away by the welcome we were given. The residents of Kei Island have shown us the most wonderful hospitality. We are looking forward to exploring more of this delightful island.
Until next time, Watusi Woman - celebrity sailor, out.
Uf beach, dinghy parking
Uf harbour
Wow, you are given such a grand welcome. Do enjoy your time at the island.
It certainly was grand. We're having a great time exploring and using my very limited bahasa to chat with the locals.
oh... it is in Maluku. I have never been on islands in Indonesia. Maluku there are tens of interesting islands you can explore there.
You are so right, there are many islands to explore. We just sailed into the Banda islands so it will be great to see all the sights here.
Wowww , it was a celebration . Welcome to Indondesia . Hope you have a great day there. :).
Thanks @tommyl33 , we have most definitely been welcomed to Indonesia. We are looking forward to spending many months exploring as many islands as wevcan.
So much adventures . ;). Please write in HIVE your journal captain :).
I will indeed keep blogging in Hive 😁
ayee captain ;).
Incredible,, that's how the hospitality of the Indonesian people in welcoming every guest who visits, and it is our custom and culture to honor guests. Once again welcome my friends and entourage, and enjoy the natural beauty on the island.. 🙏
Thanku @abizahid , we have certainly been honoured. We have been enjoying alot of the natural beauty as well as all the beautiful locals 😍
Hello dear, I like how you explore new culture in other country with those lovely community, the way they celebrate is incredibly beautiful. This is awesome! I would love to take my adventure there too if I could.
We feel very special and honoured at the welcome we have received. It is wonderful when we can be immersed into the culture of the different islands and see firstbhand their customs.
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