Day 68 - Beautiful Bali & the Great Barrier Reef Begins

Today marked the official start of the “Beautiful Bali & The Great Barrier Reef” segment of our Grand Continental Sojourn. It feels almost impossible to process that there are only 22 days left of this extraordinary journey.

With many guests disembarking and new ones embarking, the ship was a hive of activity, full of movement, luggage, introductions, and fresh energy.

As the gym wasn’t opening until later, I began the morning with a walk around the track and some gentle stretching, then grabbed our veggie juices and woke Joe so we could get ready for a special Grand Voyage event.

A Special Regent Experience

Regent had arranged a private lunch and visit to the Peranakan Museum — a beautiful way to welcome us into this new leg of the journey.

While waiting to leave the ship, Glen shared with Joe that he’d decided to step back from his quiz team, and that the rest of the team all wanted Joe. Joe was genuinely touched — being wanted, included, and not having to worry about who he’d be teaming up with meant a lot to him. Such a simple kindness, but a meaningful one.



We were bussed to a gorgeous heritage building, where we were welcomed by dancers in traditional Peranakan dress. Inside, everything was beautifully organised — name cards, menus, elegant tables, and warm hospitality from the Regent team and the restaurant team.



There was live music and cultural dance throughout lunch, and the food was absolutely delicious. The company at our table was fascinating, and Franck from Regent, who lives in Bali, shared some wonderful recommendations — including a hotel where we could get a day pass and dinner, which sounds very tempting.

When we got back to the room, there was an unexpected gift from the Regent team as a memento of our day. We felt very loved as we had also received a gift from the restaurant.



A Moment from the Heart

The final song of the lunch was “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”
It completely caught me off guard.

That song was one of my dad’s favourites, and we listened to it many times when I was growing up. As it played, I felt him very strongly with me — especially poignant as yesterday marked the anniversary of his passing. It felt like a gentle reminder that he’s still with me, always. A quiet, powerful moment that stayed with me all day.

Afternoon & Sail Away

After lunch, we visited the Peranakan Museum, though Joe chose not to go and waited on the bus. Franck also decided to skip it, so they were taken back to the port terminal together.



Not long after everyone returned, it was time to sail away. There’s something slightly surreal about watching a port disappear behind you, knowing a whole new chapter has begun — with new guests, new crew, and new stories.

Dinner this evening was at Compass Rose, followed by the evening show with the wonderful Lorraine Lisen, whose performance was elegant and uplifting.

Back in the room, I tidied up a few things, grateful for the small gift of time — especially as the clocks go back an hour tonight. For once, we’re gaining an hour’s sleep, and that feels like a real luxury.

✨ Daily Reflection

Today was a day of transition and remembrance.
New beginnings alongside quiet goodbyes. New faces mixed with familiar comforts. And in the middle of it all, a tender reminder that the people we love never truly leave us.

This journey continues to teach me that even while moving forward, it’s okay — and beautiful — to carry the past gently with us.

🌟 Highlight of the Day

🎶 “Take Me Home, Country Roads” at the Peranakan lunch
A song, a memory, and a moment that wrapped me in warmth — reminding me that love travels with us, wherever we go.

Comments

  1. Christina GiuffréJanuary 5, 2026 at 11:48 AM

    Such a nice reminder that your dad's love is always with you. 🩷

    ReplyDelete
  2. BJanuary 6, 2026 at 10:03 AM

    Thank you for your lovely comment xx

    ReplyDelete
  3. ScarlettJanuary 7, 2026 at 7:55 AM

    I have really enjoyed reading up on your exciting travels! Today I actually logged in to comment as this one really resonated with me. I genuinely believe the people we love never truly leave us, they are there in spirit, if we only listen. So happy to see you having such an incredible time, but I am also really looking forward to a catch up when you get home in 3 weeks time!! Lots of love x

    ReplyDelete
  4. BJanuary 8, 2026 at 1:21 AM

    Thank you Scarlett. I really appreciate your comment and I too look forward to catching up with you on my return x

    ReplyDelete

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