The Dutch colonised this place for the spice trade. This climate and the fertile volcanic soil was perfect for growing cinnamon, cloves and pepper. Over the years successful imports from all around the world are thriving here. Ginger turmeric and galangal from India, vanilla from Madagascar, Saffron from Iran, cocoa, coffee and so the list goes on. This morning we spend a couple of hours on a local plantation which is a foodies and gardener’s paradise.
Two afternoons ago we arrived at Madakaripura Falls, only to be turned away as it is closed due to flooding. Yesterday we were given a reprieve and it was off to see them. The trip involves a 10 minute motorbike ride, not a favourite form of transport for me (especially without helmets!). Then a 2 km walk in involving multiple river crossings and walking under numerous falls. From a distance it looked rather underwhelming. How wrong could I be. At the end of of the canyon a series of spectacular falls generating a massive mist.
