A boat tour through the Madu River

Before we go out on the boat in the afternoon, I have another wonderful experience during my treatment.

I sat somewhat lost in thought on my stool, savoring the aftereffects of my head massage, when suddenly I notice a monkey sitting in a tree and staring at me, not even 10 meters away. Okay, I think, stare back. Ashanti then explains to me that the family is about to join. Indeed, 3 more members of the family join in. 🙉🙈🙊

It was truly impressive to observe these funny animals up close and in freedom, how they play with each other but also quarrel.

Unfortunately, I didn't have my phone with me that day. It's a lesson learned, of course. 🤦🏻‍♀️

At around 4:30pm, we women start the boat tour. Just before that, I quickly run to put on some pants. Not because of the mosquitoes, they actually leave you alone here, but I'm not sure if we might not visit another temple.

First, we see flying foxes. They simply hang on the trees here and cause a big fuss. I took a video, but unfortunately I can't upload it. However, you can also see them at the Tropical Aquarium in Hamburg, Tina tells me. 🤔

Next, we go to a fish therapy. Here, we sit at the edge of the pool and dip our feet in to let the fish 🐡 nibble on them. It's quite a funny affair, but probably not good for the fish. Since they are specially flown in from Africa.

I tried it - so I don't need to do it again. Nevertheless, I'm happy about my freshly peeled feet. 🦶

After that, we go to a cinnamon island. Above us, a dozen sea eagles.

The expensive spice is made by hand here. Specifically from the bark of the cinnamon tree. Only the evergreen branches of the tree are used for the cinnamon spice. The genuine Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka. In a stripping hut, the bark is removed from the branch. Only the thin inner layer between the bark and the middle bark is usable. The thinner the piece, the finer the aroma and the more valuable the spice. The individual, short pieces of bark are piled into a long one - until a large, stable stick is created. It is much larger than the cinnamon sticks you can buy, measuring about a meter long. Finally, the cinnamon needs to dry for a few more days.

It's not an easy job, as demonstrated here on the island.

Naturally, we are offered cinnamon for purchase afterwards. Since I haven't bought any yet, I decide to get a packet of ground cinnamon for delicious rice pudding or my porridge, and once cinnamon sticks for cooking.

On our way back, we actually spot a crocodile, but luckily it's far enough away from us. 🐊

Nevertheless, we make sure to get away.

As they say here: See you later alligator. 🙋🏼‍♀️