[antivenom]

Been to Sulawesi twice and it was amazing to see how many burned out churches and mosques litter the island...it seems as soon as one religion finishes their edifice...BAM the other side defaces or destroys it...was amazing to see the hatred between the 2 religions up close.

While travleing we were warned NOT to photograph any muslims women and or burnt out religious edifices.

Diving is GREAT there...but the whole trip you remain frightened and fearful that the wrong glance will get you toted off and jailed. It should be noted my last trip there was in 2001 prior to 9-11...and I vowed then to NEVER GO BACK...even tho I loved Bali and the week in Bali wasn't enough (should be noted the bombing in Bali took place just buildings away from where we stayed).

So for all the non-muslims in Indonesia, I wish you peace and safe passage...as for the muslims...may you reap what you sow...inshallah...

[Eric in the Ozarks]

I delivered a small cargo of workover fluid to Unocal in Balikpapan about ten years ago. Before the "authorities" would allow the transfer of the oil, we had to wire a 100 percent bribe to an Indonesian bank. Never do that again.