at the ruins of a former temple, Un-
fortunately closed due to the rain.
We never did get a chance to see it
up close. This set our mood; carrying
on worried that the conditions would
limit what we could see.
Approaching a local farm the ter-
rain began to change. We were now
on dirt tracks with huge water-filled
pot holes and very slippery surfaces.
The semi-automatic scooter really
helped me on this ground. I was able
to have more control over the slick
surface. We rode up a long muddy
driveway, taking us towards the farm.
Jason and the guide knew the farmer.
They frequently visit him on these
tours. Once we entered the area we
saw geese, chickens and a rooster
TRAVERSE
63
roaming around crossing our path
and just generally looking like they
owned the place. A buffalo, who I felt
was watching our every move, kept
his distance while we walked around.
Here was a great looking floating
bridge that lead to an area I desper-
ately wanted to explore. We were told
it wasn't to be.
While Jason left us to locate the
farmer we got the opportunity to look
around. We learnt that the farmer
wasn’t here so before leaving I want-
ed to get a closer look at the floating
bridge. It was made of thick tubes of
bamboo. In places a rich orange fun-
gi had taken hold.
On the bikes we followed Jason
back up the muddy driveway and