See the world through cabin crew eyes

Six months later… I find myself in Bali again. I can’t exactly explain why I love this place so much, it’s not something I can name or touch but being here makes me feel deeply at peace.

After a long and exhausting flight, unsurprisingly, no one wanted to join me on this little escape. One of the crew gave the usual “I can’t stay under the sun for too long” excuse, while the FO, who was eager to come yesterday, suddenly had an “important phone call” that might last who knows how long. Not exactly the most exciting or genuine layover crew.

But I didn’t let that ruin my day. Even though I haven’t received a salary in seven months, I chose not to let frustration take over. I packed my bag and headed to Canggu, alone, but free.

I’ve always had this silly habit of thinking “Maybe if I walk a little, I’ll find a cheaper taxi.” That thought cost me 30 sweaty minutes. Getting out of the airport area took longer than expected, but eventually, I found a taxi for 150K IDR instead of the usual 180K. Was it worth the walk? Probably not. But I tried.

With 500K IDR in cash and 170K left from my last visit, I was determined to make the most of my day. I only had about 300 QAR in my account, but I knew, somehow I’d be okay.

☀️ Theme of the Day: Self-Love and Coping with Exhaustion

What does it even mean to truly love yourself? I often find myself torn between opposing thoughts. If I could just find a consistent rhythm, maybe things would feel easier.

Take the FO for instance married with children. What could possibly come of even spending time with someone like that? Entertaining these ideas only devalues my worth. I need to stop chasing connections that harm me. Alhamdulillah, I have enough. May Allah helps. But most importantly, I won’t tolerate anyone who makes me feel small. Everyone gets one chance, no more.

Today is a fresh chance to be optimistic. I chose this life. I miss my family deeply, they’re my everything but if I were back in Turkiye, what would I be doing? I wouldn’t be traveling, expanding my perspective, or growing like I am now. Being close all the time doesn’t always mean better; distance can strengthen love too.

I’m open to miracles. Life can be more beautiful than I ever imagined.

🌴 Canggu, at Last

The moment I arrived in Canggu, my heart felt full. With garam i was staring at the waves, a little ritual that grounds me. Then I headed to La Brisa.

I spent around three peaceful hours there, sipped a rich coffee and had a poke bowl. Healthy, yes, but not exactly a dish that excites the soul. Still, I embraced the Bali spirit.

There was something magical about that moment: the scent of sunscreen blending with the salty ocean breeze, music that felt like it came from my own playlist, and the soft hum of waves in the background.

They’ve added a massage area there too, 350K for an hour, a little too steep for today, but next time for sure.So many handsome faces around, by the way, the kind that makes you want to glance twice. But alas, no sign of the love of my life… yet.

💆‍♀️ A Pink Door and a Massage

As the sun grew hotter and sweat dripped down my back, I stopped for a cold cola (regret followed quickly). Then, I started scouting for a more budget-friendly massage place. One spot caught my eye, a small pink massage shop (how could I resist?).

For 270K, I got a surprisingly good massage. Not the best I’ve ever had, but it helped ease my post-flight leg pain and made me feel cared for.

🎁 Meaningful Gifts & Gentle Waves

Later, I visited the small local market I used to go to. The same smiling faces were there and they remembered me! That made my heart swell. I had small wooden surfboards made with the names of Olga, Mariya, and Beyza, the kind of simple gift that means a lot. I once had one made for myself, and I know they’ll love it.

I thought of getting one for my sister too, but I was running low on cash. After that, I bought some water and went down to the beach.

I played in the waves like a child; laughing, jumping, letting the sea lift the heaviness off my shoulders. Another reason I love this beach? The dogs. So many of them, playing with each other like children, spreading joy effortlessly.

I stayed long enough to catch the sunset. Surfers danced with the waves better than they had earlier in the day. I’d love to surf again, but my last experience left me nearly drowning. I still remember my sister losing her bracelet, and how Beyza would always swim beside me. I miss those moments.

I walked past a man selling corn and nearly bought one, but the memory of eating corn with my family washed over me, and I just couldn’t. I sat by the sea and whispered a soft goodbye to the day.

🌙 Last Hours & Reflections

If it hadn’t gotten so late, I would’ve stayed in the ocean longer. But I had to make a decision, one last massage or dinner?

I ended up walking to a local Muslim warung I had visited with my family before. On the way, I passed Avocado Factory, it’s now on my list for next time.

The meal was simple: brown rice and a dessert, both were delicious. Next time I’ll try their coconut oil dishes. Still, at 20K, it was enough.

I ordered a GoJek back to the hotel for 115K. The driver was a kind man in his 50s. We talked about life, Hinduism, and how his beliefs helped him recover from illness. Some things he said were a bit intense, but his respectfulness made it a pleasant ride.

When i arrived to hotel, i showered to remove massage oil on me, prayed my missed prayers, and drifted into sleep. I woke up groggy, my mind still halfway in dreamland. Nearly missed my pick-up. But the flight back wasn’t nearly as tiring, I credit that to the energy of a beautiful, soulful day.

Alhamdulillah for a layover like this.

I just wish Dobby had been there too.

“Chase waves, not perfection.”

P.S. My driver recommended a street for next time:

📍 Devisri Street – Long Canggu