#travel bali like a local

[mintycurry]

not me actually noting down the villa, that's a good travel recommendation ngl

[daubigny-stan]

i want you to know my thoughts on lgbtq people going on vacation in homophobic countries. these thoughts are potentially problematic, so please go into this with an open mind. to be specifc im going to talk about queer foreigners vacationing in bali and making gay friendly spaces there. this post is gonna have mentions of homophobia and other stuff so if you're not in the headspace, well i warned you.

first i want to give context to bali and indonesia for those who arent aware. indonesia (the country bali is in, not the other way around) is a Very Conservative muslim majority country. bali is an exception for two reasons: first, it is hindu majority instead of muslim majority. people there are still very religious but they abide by a different set of rules. second of all they are pretty desensitized to what is considered here to be "western" culture. so they're ok with "immodest" clothing/swimsuits, they're ok with alcohol, they're ok with pda (TO AN EXTENT DON'T BE GROSS), etc. to be clear, they cant afford not to be. the economy is extremely dependent on foreign tourism, dependent on USD, AUD, etc. (that's conversation for another day wink wink)

therefore it's actually pretty easy to create queer, bipoc safe spaces here as long as your passport isn't indonesian. and that's what got me to write down my feelings. one of my favorite queer content creators attended one of these safe spaces and one of their friends was talking about how welcome, warm, and inclusive that event was for them.

and to be brutally honest... i felt bullshitted. it felt unfair. it felt like a "fuck you got mine". everyday of my life when i remember that im queer in this godforsaken country... i wish i wasn't born here. a sentiment that i'm sure every queer indonesian has felt at least once in their lifetime. it hurts to live here, it hurts so much.

there is a lot to be discussed here. on one hand i guess i should be glad that queer bipoc people can travel here and feel welcome? but you know it's because your passport is american/australian/eu right? meanwhile i bet i have to jump through so many bureaucratic requirements to go to your country because my name is vaguely muslim, on top of the ridiculous travel costs. "oh traveling is cheap guys" ye cause youre fucking western. and oof, lets not even talk about how these "safe spaces" events are steeped in orientalism and exoticism.

i guess the fix here would be to involve more local queer people, but then access would be limited to those in bali AND those in the know. at the end of the day all i want to express through these posts are my feelings of frustration at the unfairness of it all

[iwanttoswimintheswanepoel]

OG yacht girl

yacht girl vibe

-be the yacht princess traveling through cannes

-get invited by the wealthiest of the elite onto yachts with your friends and earn money

-meet eligible bachelors easily

-be a polarizing magnet for billionaires

-sip strawberry champagne out on the deck

-lounge around 150 million dollar yachts while eating exotic tropical fruits

-have an endless yacht crew jumping to make sure you’re comfortable and not lifting a finger

-always travel to exotic, tropical, travel destinations like the almalfi coast , santorini, sardinia, ibiza, miami, jamaica, rio de janeiro, bali, fiji, thailand, monaco, bora bora, dubai, portofino, hawaii (be mindful to the locals please), aruba, puerto rico, cancun & turks and caicos on somebody else’s expense.

-easily pick up foreign languages abroad and perfectly speak it to the locals

-lounge around the yacht in nothing but a tiny bikini and heels just cause

-always have safe trips. never do anything you don’t want to and have safe travels onboard.

-everything goes your way. if you’re not happy your billionaire friend will do everything in his power to see a smile on your face. but why would you not be happy being young, hot spoiled & rich on a attractive billionaire’s yacht???

-watching you relax on your billionaire friend’s yacht is their personal favorite. however watching you run around the beach sipping an aperol spritz with your peachy cheeks covered in sand is a close second.

-find a healthy mix between eating the mediterranean diet, shellfish, acqua panna, exotic fruits & eating bonilla a la vista patatas fritas, piña coladas and smoking cuban cigars

-have a luxurious romantic dinner every night on the water level extended deck with dimly lit candles just because

-besides your shopping sprees be sure to expect new lingerie, bikinis, investment bags, peonies & macarons to be gifted to you daily while your billionaire friend is out and about just thinking about you.

-have the same larger than life 2000’s party girl vibe as paris hilton

-you choose to go with both attractive and ultra wealthy billionaires because you’re the hottest of the hottest so you can have both

-stay in a top of the line yacht with all the appliances most can only dream of

-the yacht girl lifestyle is never scary you’re never put in danger and can leave whenever you want

-despite how great yachting sounds its just another typical day for you your life is normally so luxurious and fun

-you are easily the sexiest most expensive export out of your country ever summer

-make more in one night of yachting than a small countries GDP

-despite your well travelled expensive summer experience you also make sure to maintain your summer reading and investment’s

-locals are nothing but kind to the foreign pretty girl they see on the beach

-be the evening gem of the yacht club meet

-never girl rot you’re doing hot rich bitch shit everyday

-when you’re yachting life is reminiscent of 2010 frank ocean “super rich kids” vibes of pure luxury and blatant displays of wealth

-be endlessly energetic, flirty and playful

-you make people feel insatiable for your presence

-one sniff of your scent is like a lethal drug

-when you’re not on the yacht or on land you’re traveling by private plane to your next destination

-you’re gifted with the unique ability to find at least one naturally occurring pearl every time you eat oysters

-your voice is downright erotic and gets men to do whatever you want

miranda kerr dating history

-only date billionaires

-have your eye out for the perfect billionaire

-know how to play the game for your perfect billionaire mate

-you just might end up with the CEO of your favorite social media company if you keep up the yachting

-unlike miranda you would never have a baby with a lame

-don’t yacht just for fun and money, yacht because you’re looking for your future husband to make you and your future children live a life of leisure

miranda kerr beauty

-have gorgeous dimples (or dimple lol i only have one) that make rich men weak in the knees

-have doll like apple cheeks that make you look youthful

-look naive and impressionable despite your omnipresent sex appeal

-always have a full voluminous victorias’s secret bombshell blowout

-have a face that could easily make you the highest paid model… or yacht girl

-exude unmatched sex appeal

-have skin so hydrated and dewy from sipping straight from your coconuts

-have a perfect balance between downright wanton sex appeal and neoteny to easily manipulate just about anyone

general sprinkle sprinkle

-you’ve never dated a brookie

-even a brookie would sell his soul to see you on a yacht sunbathing in the south of France

-you don’t have to perform sexual favors (unless desired) on yacht’s, you’re simply invited to a tropical luxurious summer getaway

-be gifted a cartier 18K yellow gold 7 charm ankle bracelet so your favorite billionaire can stake his claim

-other billionaires are crawling to your feet with gifts to invite you to their yacht

-other yacht billionaires get so territorial when they see you dancing on the deck table across the bay

-give the billionaire you choose to yacht with even more status amongst the elite as you’re the most expensive yacht girl

-be paid billions just to enjoy yourself

-not even “queen of yacht girls” miranda kerr could make as much as you do yachting for a night

-you don’t pay for a damn thing. in fact the only thing in your delvaux bag is sun screen and hot sauce

-your billionaire friend can’t focus when he leaves to do business deals knowing you’re lounging in the tiniest tropic of c bikini

-your billionaire is waiting at your beck and call to feed you grapes from the vine while you read just to be near you

-sure you could hang out with the old wrinkled billionaires but the hot & sexy young ones want and pay even more for you

-have the face and body people immediately think of when they hear “billionaire wife”

-be the main source of envy from other yacht girls or girls fucking for free to hop on a low tier yacht

-master social dining etiquette (your fork will always give you away)

-your private flight or emirates first class suite ticket there? paid for. your summer wardrobe? paid for. your living expenses? paid for. your shopping sprees? paid for. none of which are paid for by you. you’re just expected to bring your pretty self to be a muse of sorts.

-have 100 million dollar yachts gifted to you for existing

-after you step foot onto the yacht your billionaire friend calls someone up to change the current printed name to yours (naomi lapaglia inspo)

-you yourself are a status symbol there’s no question a man is rich if you’re on his arm

-have a figurehead on the prow designed after you (lauren sanchez inspo)

-rich men literally spit out their 1945 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru when they see you

-be the best seductress there ever was

-no one has more game or knows the game quite as well as you do

-billionaire men don’t mind if you’re manipulating them for your own gain they just want to be near you

-other yacht girls wouldn’t dare to approach your billionaire friend

-wealthy men are more than happy to give you all of their money just for being beautiful

-wealthy men literally feel haunted by your presence it evokes some sort of regency era longing. something for the books

-you are the ultimate prize

-men don’t care about your past as long as you’re not with someone else

-attract a chadlite billionaire that melts in your arms like frei malthus in hilda hurricane

-be gifted diamonds for every innocent kiss you give on the cheek

-unlike miranda kerr you don’t even have to make billionaire’s think you like them they just want the opportunity to be in your presence

-“a pearl necklace for your thoughts?”

summer beauty affirmations

-sex appeal seeps out of your pores you are the epitome of “walking sex”

-people on land watch you walk by as captivated as everyone in town was watching malena walk past

-have a summer essence like pamela anderson running across the beach in baywatch

-have sultry tan lines that give a forbidden fruit vibe when seen

-tan is as deep and as perfect as brooke shields in the blue lagoon

-manifest all of your desired swimwear

-have a rosy gold undertone to your skin that makes you look youthful and healthy

-have the most adorable naturally rosy cheeks

-have endless amounts of hermes oran sandals in every color

-be so stunning and alluring sirens wonder if you’re one of them

-look so exotic but no one can ever pinpoint from where

-look so erotic with fruit juice running down your chest and staining your luscious red lips

-look like you just walked out of a 2000’s summer edition of vogue

-be the beach beauty in passing no one ever forgets

-radiate even more sex appeal than an angel doing a victoria’s secret swimwear photoshoot

-have the ultimate bedroom eyes. one look from you with those pretty eyes is like a siren singing the sailors to their death

-(if desired for a lighter eye color green or blue) your eyes match the color of the sea’s you grace

-your defined cheekbones could cut a bitch but your dimple faced smile melts the iciest hearts

-thick & fluffy brooke shields/ taylor hill esque eyebrows

-look like you have naturally khol lined eyes

-you are forever in your peak. you’re gonna be sexy forever

-you embody the same endless beauty and femininity as ocean waves

-always be seen with an exotic flower in your long flowing locks on the beach

-have perfect pouty sensual red lips like rosie huntington whitley

-get asked what lip tint you’re wearing (you’re not wearing one…)

-manifest a luxury collection of sunglasses

-radiate the same beauty as christy turlington in “postcard from portofino” , vogue 1992

-anything you deem to be a personal imperfection is ceasing to exist

-when people see you they don’t understand how one person can be so sexy, exotic and unbelievably beautiful

-you’re beauty reminds people of a foreign sunset over the sea with rosy pink & orange hues

-have vanta black lashes that are super long and flutter soft and slow like a butterfly’s wings

-skin is naturally clear and rejuvenated look as if you’ve had a biologique recherche facial everyday (or maybe you have…)

-the salty ocean water washes away any skin impurities you have like a hydrafacial

-your glass skin & natural skin sparkles make your skin reminiscent of a porcelain doll’s

-manifest daily spa treatments, have your billionaire friend call the top specialist to the yacht for daily lymphatic drainage & skin treatments

-radiate the same energy as 2000’s euro summer clubbing songs

-your body is always well moisturized from even layers of sunscreen & body oil

-be out of this world gorgeous

-attract seashells, shell charms & jewelry

-maintain a thick fluffy 80’s voluminous blowout

-when people see you they think you’re a victoria’s secret model doing a photoshoot on the beach

-you’re devastatingly gorgeous

-you have a one in 8 billion sort of beauty

-you could easily be Miss Universe from beauty alone

-your pores are nonexistent

-there’s so many colors in your eyes from green, grey to blue with little specs of gold

-have a beauty that looks like you’re aware of ancient beauty secrets

-you become even more stunning with every second that passes

-the sun gives your hair a natural balayage

-hair is shiny like you used the oribe gold lust nourishing oil

-hair so shiny you’re fighting keratin treatment allegations

-your sexy aura reminds people of the song “candy shop” by fifty cent

-have an incredibly ultra feminine sexually dimorphic face

-your face is forever imprinted into men’s minds just from one glance

body affirmations

-have firm supple skin

-your skin is soft like butter cream

-your skin feels like silk

-easily obtain the best tan of your life

-be immune to sun burn

-tan like an early 2000’s Brazilian bombshell

-get a brazilian tan line spray tan

-have natural sparkles on your skin

-all body hair you don’t remove turns blonde and glimmers in the sun (ie: arms, happy trail)

-you’re naturally as hairless as a sphynx cat in your bikini area, underarms & legs

-your skin is immune to sun damage so you can sunbathe all day

-effortlessly maintain a summer body year round from 98-115 pounds year round (whatever you prefer)

-your body looks so healthy and filled out in all the right places

-always maintain a fresh russian mani pedi

manifest your desired summer body products

•sol de janeiro body oil

•vacation inc whipped spf 30

•body shimmer

•la roche posay thermal spray mist

•biologique recherche protection U.V. corps spf 50 sunscreen

-have long toned legs and a flat stomach

-have full round close set perky tear drop shaped boobs that look like they’re barely restrained by your bikini top (desired cup size)

-have a tall thin body

-workout on the extended deck of the yacht. not because you need to but because you want to. it helps that you’re flaunting that lithe sexy body to other billionaires along the way.

-all body imperfections (less than ideal proportions, discoloration, scars, loose skin, acne & scretch marks) are ceasing to exist

-even though you have your summer body all year round with no help needed, you know to maintain your upmost health through diet and exercise for the victorias secret fashion show in the fall

-your plump perky ass looks so enticing in your bikini bottoms

-your 0.7 WHR is mesmerizing but your plump heart shaped ass takes the cake

-your long supermodel legs are like rich men’s kryptonite

-hear “those legs” from drooling men daily

-your legs could easily stop a MAC truck

-tan easily and surprisingly fast

-tan like its UV 11 everyday

-be between 5’7-6’2

-have a thin hourglass body like candice swanepoel

-be fully immune to body odor

-have a natural yasmeen ghauri cat walk

-full hips that move as fluidly as shakira’s

-long swan neck that is immune to neck lines

-90° shoulders

-thin ballerina arms

-pretty size 6 arched feet

-divorced thighs

-small narrow rib cage

-20 inch waist

-all of your body fat is in your perky booty

-your body naturally emits the smell of acqua di parma blu mediterraneo by acqua di parma

-“it should be a crime how microscopic your bikini is”

-wealthy billionaires almost wish you put more clothes on for the sole sake of their own sanity

FAME

-have your desired level of fame for your desired career choice

-be the best dressed at cannes film festival red carpet

-you make so much money from your main job (modeling,acting etc) you only yacht for its eligible bachelors… the extra money is tempting too

-your hair naturally grows about 2 inches everyday just to give lara lieto on the cannes film festival red carpet

-meet your desired celebrities partying on yachts after the cannes film festival

-find out who other celebrity yacht girls are

-have the best paparazzi yachting pics

NSFW YACHTING

(like i said you don’t have to do sexual favors this part is if you feel sexually interested in your billionaire friend if not- you can subconsciously block all of these if you desire to not claim them if so it will not apply to you. if you chose to claim them there is extra protection bennies stay safe ily. again if you don’t want these bennies they simply won’t apply to you)

-have a healthy vagina

-have an optimal vaginal flora

-your PH never gets thrown off

-have optimal vaginal wetness from sipping on coconuts all day

-coochie is wet like you take your okra supplements

-get paid a couple mil more for the occasional “accidental” nip slip

-spending money on you literally makes men horny its like edging all day long

-trips to the dressing room “do you wanna see these clothes on me?” you can look but don’t you touch

-coochie smells & taste like sweet melons

-desired handsome billionaire has desired thoughts about your body

-get paid 20 mil more for allowing your billionaire friend to watch you enjoy your bubble bath with chocolate covered strawberries & Prosecco

-“when i’m with you all i get is wild thoughts”

-on the very rare chance that you do decide to sleep with your billionaire friend they make sure you’re left with a night you’ll never forget

-do your lovemaking on the deck overlooking the ocean under the night sky

-sacral chakra is properly functioning

-BE FULLY IMMUNE TO BEING 🍇D

-BE FULLY IMMUNE TO ATTRACTING PREDATORS

-BE FULLY IMMUNE TO ATTRACTING FAMILY

-RELEASE ANY AND ALL SEXUAL TRAUMA

[fungirl-apk]

JJK CHARACTERS AS SCAM ARTISTS. (JUJUTSU SCAMMERVERSE.) (PT.1)

____________________________________

(a series dedicated to Jujutsu kaisen characters and what type of scammers they would be. (Keep in mind this is just a joke - slander if you will. Lmao. )

-> PART 2(toji)

TW// dusty!satoru, scammer!satoru, dustmite!gojo, mentions of scammer!geto, crackfic

1K+ words

(if you have eczema , asthma, or a cold, reading this fic featuring dusty gojo and (a very little, but still dusty) geto will make you cough, wheeze, hack, and sneeze. read at your own risk.)

____________________________________

SATORU GOJO - THE MONARCH SCAMMER.

-SATORU is definitely the "over-the-phone" foreign country emperor-type scammer. The kind of scammer who chooses gullible females (such as elderly women,) or vulnerable women (such as lonely widows,) on purpose - he's no misogynist, but he finds women easier to manipulate cash out of (partially due to his good looks and silver-tongue). Besides, what woman can resist a handsome ""emperor"" from a foreign country? with a foreign accent?

-SATORU would definitely be the type to carefully plan out his responses/behaviors before manipulating his victims for cash - he'd purposefully distance himself away from his victim for days, but not before saying things like: "I'm broke", "I have no job", then arrive with a half-assed apology 3 days later, "oh- sorry! was busy working, lol :p"

-SATORU would obviously not be stupid enough to contradict himself, By accident that is. He knows what he's doing, he's just making it seem like he's hiding something... Hiding the fact he's the quote "emperor from some rich foreign country".

He realizes he could never just say that though, so instead, he'd leave little traps for his victim to pick up on, hints, and clues, that'll eventually all add up and corroborate his story. 

-SATORU's entire goal from start to finish would be to push the theory without explicitly saying it. The more distance between you two, the more suspicious you will get.

the more desperate for an answer you feel as he pushes you away? This is how he lures you in, although you'll never realize it until the end. 

-SATORU would only strike when he knows he's destroyed your morale. When you inevitably lower your standards for an explanation as to why he's been "traveling in and out of Japan", desperate for anything, you'll accept his outlandish confession of being a

"foreign imperial monarch, emperor of the south who has 8 Bugatti's and 5 exotic albino peacock-tigers and an 89 figure bank account".

And regardless of whether you truly believe it or not, you accept it. Because you're just desperate for his company and tired of feeling neglected.

-SATORU would use his previous absence to further push the theory if you still weren't convinced enough. "Yeah, the reason I missed your birthday was because I was helping the local Duke of the North. I got injured, so I was in the hospital". he wasn't.

"remember when I said I couldn't be there for your promotion party? The guards of the south needed my assistance on the day of the party, so I traveled to Japan to help them.". He didn't. 

"That picture of me on the airplane was me traveling to my kingdom". He literally snuck onto that plane without a ticket...

-SATORU is smart, smart enough to know you probably would begin to doubt his fictitious empire and his tenuous adventures about "large boats made out of porcelain with golden jewels, exotic albino caviar, and white pearls" in Bali, Indonesia.

So, to further sell the dream - he sends in cash or expensive gifts now and then as the final nail in the coffin. To some inexperienced scammers, it just looks stupid, considering he's supposed to be the one receiving money, "counterproductive" they say.

 But Satoru just scoffs and writes them off as "amateurs". He doesn't see it as ""CoUnTeRpROduCtive"" He sees it as an investment, a down payment, or to put it more accurately, a security deposit for the future.

"It isn't guaranteed you will get back the same treatment in dividends from the person you choose to pour all this unnecessary money into..."

Nanamin often remarks. But again, Satoru just scoffs. Nanamin just doesn't understand the psychological genius behind a true mastermind such as THE gojo Satoru, king of the con artists. Some say he's arrogant, but he'd just say he's confident in his abilities as a scam artist. 

what comes around goes around, and he's gonna get his money back one way or another. it's just his good karma.

-SATORU's best friend, confidant, and partner in crime, geto, comments that if any regular person were to describe Gojo, they would say he's an absolute despicable excuse of a human being.

If any of his victims were to describe him, they'd say he was a learning experience and their first real heartbreak.

If an advanced scammer were to describe Satoru, they would say he is a genius but arrogant hustler in a world full of flim-flam cowards,

a true fraudster in the flesh. Most scammers who've heard the tales of Satoru Gojo assume he's worked his way up to the top all by his lonesome, brewing his own methods of mind games and manipulation processes resulting in successful licks among women internationally.

But, geto would just chalk it all up to him being born into a very corporate family. 

One that happens to scam their customers out of new and expensive phones every 6 months for minimal features but 6000x times the price. it's worth it though, because you get 50kb more space. :>

-SATORU would never let another man in your life. not in jealousy - but in greed. He's had men in the past attempt to distance his victims away from him in either pursuit of a romantic relationship, or because they're trying to play fraudster as well, While he's still trying to play HIS tricks.

you can guarantee no matter who it is - Satoru takes it as a sign of blatant disrespect if another scammer attempts to try and get in the way of his bag 

So, he makes an example out of them, which is the number 1 reason why Satoru Gojo became the most notorious figure in the Con-artistry community.

 IF a man somehow reaches the god-like proportions Satoru Gojo has achieved in the world of the jujutsu scammer-verse, he'd just have to knock him down to size.

He can't have another shyster challenging his authority. If the JJK scammer verse is the Wild Wild West, there isn't enough room in this town for both of them.

-SATORU in the world of scammers would be the kingpin, the best, the inspiration, the moment, and the blueprint for other scammers in the jujutsu scammer verse.

and he's a dust storm heading toward all the women. ladies, pack your bags, skip town, and lock your doors, it's sneezin' season - and beware of the Toji dust blizzard following right behind

-> PART 2(toji)

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ATTENTION ALL READERSSS, THIS IS MY FIRST FANFIC. I SINCERELY APOLOGIZE IF ITS POPOCACA BUT REMEMBER IT'S JUST A JOKE FOR YOUR PERSONAL ENTERTAINMENT

BUT IF MY FANFIC ERADICATED ANY FORM OF ENTERTAINMENT FEEL FREE TO CRITIQUE ME!!!!!!

(also, here's a quick yuji fanart I created LOL)

____________________________________

[handweavers]

wait BUT have you seen/do you have opinions on the new “seasian-inspired” sims 4 world

my main gripes are that it's like generic southeast asian/a mix of everything from across seasia which feels strange when the japanese pack was very clearly specifically japanese, that city inspired by san francisco was clearly san francisco, etc. but likewise selvadorada was based on a combo of mesoamerican and south american cultures so this isn't the first time they've smushed a bunch of cultures from the global south together lol. also it being part of a landlord dlc pack is crazy especially given that this is southeast asia with our incredibly tumultuous histories re: land redistribution and landlords but whatever it's electronic arts, none of this is shocking, average behaviour, etc

however i will say that even from screenshots and the ads i immediately recognized so much of the world from my own life experiences, so much of the architecture and landscape and everything reminds me of malaysia as well as my travels in indonesia (bali in particular, i suspect they looked at balinese culture a lot when making the pack) and it's so extremely rare to see anything in video games that reminds me of home that it does make me feel a bit emotional looking at it. i think people can sometimes exaggerate the value of representation in media, the idea of consumption as being the only political outlet that people are able to or can acceptably engage with etc blah blah but on a personal level it DOES feel really nice to see photos of tomarang and see home in it, to be able to inhabit a virtual world that looks more like the one i recognize and love very much rather than the usual western locales. even if it is more generic than i would like, its still accurate enough that it feels "right" to me when i look at it, so much that it actually makes me feel homesick lol. i haven't gotten the pack yet but i will at some point, i'm looking forward to it

[naturegoddessdiary]

I’m about to sound like an asshole and I don’t care. But as black woman who travels and come across other black travelers, they seem standoffish, or is it just me? I had this experience in Bali when I was asking questions and the black people in the group were unkind. Only one guy was nice to me. Some of you need to fix your attitude. I assume you want to be the only black person, or you have your group of friends and you don’t want to be bothered. I usually look for “Black in _” groups, but now I stop because it seems I am forcing a connection. This is everywhere, I noticed ( my experience, I know everyone is different) . I’m not trying to stereotype us either, but it seems I can’t ask questions, talk about spirituality, etc. I have a better experience with the locals than my own people and that is sad.

I’m in a black women travel group and another sister mentioned it. I thought it was just me.

I’m not saying everyone is like this, but I’ve noticed a pattern. Even if you make your way to Hawai’i it’s the same energy. Anyways. I’m having fun! 💚

[cursedwithwords]

teddy is the KING of side quests. give him 2 and a half years and bro has probably achieved and experienced everything life has to offer.

he was mastering muay thai in thailand and became a part of an elite martial arts force temporarily. he was volunteering at a soup kitchen and became best friends with a local druglord in the usa. he did some odd jobs in india that had him mastering specialised forms of curse breaking. he taught english at a primary school in japan for a bit and became every school kid’s reference on their resumes that he still gets calls for years later. he visited ethiopia and roomed with an old lady who taught him how to cook all the best dishes and now he’s a beast at ethiopian cuisine. he was snorting coke in a gay club in bali where he befriended every drag queen and even performed himself because his stage presence is unmatched (they’re obsessed with his metamorphing powers). he met the prime minister of canada on the street when they were walking their dog and they exchanged numbers before teddy even knew they were the PM. he got subsequently arrested and bailed out in australia for possessing illegal drugs on him. he tried out for the paraguay national football team and got rejected but not before charming one of the players mothers so much he ended up hooking up with her and becoming opps with an entire national soccer team. he broke into an abandoned, haunted psych ward in the netherlands and covered it in so much of his street art that the place looks like a work of art now instead of something to be feared.

he also got blackout drunk one night and got a stick and poke tattoo of his ballsacks ON his ballsacks in nicaragua and had to go on a whole journey to remove it four months later himself with ancient magic he learned in the most historically reverent parts of greece. all just to remove his ballsack tattoo. he never told anyone about this. the secret (and the ancient magic) dies with him. i like to think he accidentally made himself one of the most OP characters in the HPverse because of this learning curb.

This was a fucking rollercoaster to read and my favorite part about it is YOU KINDA AINT WRONG 😂😂😂😂😂 he 100% accidentally made himself OP because he was trying to figure himself out while traveling.

[bali-adventure-time]

🌴 Ready for an Unforgettable 4-Day Bali Adventure? 🌴

Day 1: Exploring Ubud 🌿🐒

Morning:

Tegallalang Rice Terraces 🌾: Walk through the beautiful rice fields and take photos.

Ubud Monkey Forest 🐒: See playful monkeys in a lush forest.

Afternoon:

Ubud Palace 🏯: Visit this stunning palace and learn about Balinese history.

Ubud Art Market 🎨: Shop for unique crafts and souvenirs.

Evening:

Campuhan Ridge Walk 🌄: Enjoy a scenic walk with amazing views.

Dinner in Ubud 🍽️: Try crispy duck at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Adventure in East Bali 🚵‍♂️🕌

Morning:

Tirta Empul Temple 💧: Visit this temple with holy spring water.

Gunung Kawi 🏞️: Explore ancient rock-cut shrines.

Afternoon:

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) 🐘: Discover a mysterious cave and beautiful pools.

Lunch at a Local Warung 🍛: Enjoy tasty Balinese food like Nasi Goreng.

Evening:

Relax at Your Hotel 🛏️: Enjoy spa time or relax by the pool.

Dinner 🍜: Have a quiet meal at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

Day 3: Beach Day in South Bali 🏖️🌊

Morning:

Nusa Dua Beach 🏄‍♀️: Relax on the beach and try water sports.

Water Blow 🌊: Watch big waves crash against rocks.

Afternoon:

Jimbaran Bay 🦞: Eat delicious seafood at a beachside café.

Garuda Wisnu Kencana Park 🦅: See the huge statue and explore the park.

Evening:

Uluwatu Temple 🌅: Visit the cliff-top temple and watch a Kecak Dance at sunset.

Dinner at Jimbaran Beach 🍤: Enjoy a seafood dinner on the sand.

Day 4: Exploring North Bali 🌺💦

Morning:

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple ⛩️: Visit this temple on a lake.

Handara Gate 📸: Take cool photos at this iconic gate.

Afternoon:

Gitgit Waterfall 💧: Hike to this beautiful waterfall.

Bali Botanic Garden 🌳: Explore the gardens and see tropical plants.

Evening:

Lovina Beach 🏖️: Relax at this quiet beach and maybe see dolphins.

Dinner in Lovina 🍽️: Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Additional Tips:

Transportation 🚗: Hire a private driver for easy travel.

Accommodation 🏨: Stay in central places like Ubud and Nusa Dua.

Local Etiquette 🙏: Dress modestly at temples and respect local customs.

Enjoy your Bali adventure! 🌴🌞

For more information, visit our official website La Esperanza Travels or contact us at 9811822579.

[funstealer]

Interview with Teruki Uchise of 14th Addiction Loaded Fashion Magazine Vol. 6 (2014) English Translation:

Page 1 Born in 1971 in Osaka Prefecture. At the age of 18, he moved to the United States alone and then moved to Mexico. Based on the know-how gained locally, he established KMRii, a brand that sells handmade accessories. Established "14th Addiction" in 2007. Without being bound by established theories or preconceived notions, he creates products based on the experiences he gained from his own travels and his own unique values. "We have an atelier in Bali, and all products are handmade by local craftsmen." The brand 14th Addiction offers leather items and other products that seem to have a life of their own. The designer, Mr. Teruki, has a unique background among many fashion designers.

"I had a strong desire to go overseas since I was in junior high school, and it was influenced by the music, movies, and novels that I liked and was exposed to at the time. In particular, the book "Exiles" (by Robert Harris) had a big influence on me and made a strong impression on me. I left Japan as soon as I turned 18 and went to America to find myself. I spent a few years there, but I didn't really like it, so I went to Mexico."

A foreign land with a bad security situation. Gangsters, drug dealers, cult groups, etc. are sometimes in the news. In 1990, the young man in his 20s moved to Mexico on his own, and he didn't feel any particular fear. Instead, he thought, "If I'm going to live, this is the place."

"I'm from Osaka, so Mexico has a similar vibe to Osaka (laughs). When I started living in Mexico, something suddenly occurred to me. To begin with, Japanese people and Mexicans are different in size, and they might even pull out a gun. In a place like that, you can't win physically. So you have to win mentally. It's important to approach the other person without being wary as much as possible and have a heart-to-heart conversation. If you feel fear, the other person will definitely know, and you'll be looked down upon right away. That's the trick, or how to navigate the world, I learned in Mexico."

The thing he wanted most was survival skills. After that, at the age of 24, TERUKI's career as a designer began. He started making accessories by imitating the Mexican Indians he met there.

"Since I was a teenager, I wanted to acquire the ability to survive. Survival skills are the ability to survive in the ultimate situation of traveling around the world, where no one knows you or helps you. When exposed to such a situation, I always wondered, 'What can I do?' That's when I discovered accessory making, learned a lot, acquired the know-how, actually made things, and sold them on the street when they were finished. That's how I began my life."

Make and sell, make money, and move on to the next town. With the help of TERUKI's extraordinary survival skills, his skills were so impressive that even local colleagues in the industry respected him. Whenever they found a new technique or material, they would negotiate and trade know-how with other craftsmen. TERUKI's works were of such high quality that they commanded overwhelmingly high prices on the street accessory market at the time. "I was selling accessories near the resort town of Cancun, and during the Christmas season many tourists came from New York and other places. People from the film and music industries among them saw the things I made and said, 'Why are you selling in a place like this? You can go much further.' I remember that this gave me a lot of confidence and marked a turning point for me." Page 2 His only source of inspiration was his own travel experiences. After that, he continued to travel around the world, visiting America, Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Holland, England, Germany, France, Spain, Australia, etc. In 2000, he launched the accessory brand "KMRii" and established an atelier in Bali in the same year. In his atelier in Bali, he created an environment where all production processes could be carried out, from production to the distribution system for overseas shipments. After that, he approached music festivals in various European countries and built a network with overseas artists. In 2004, he also produced a leather jacket for Steven Tyler of Aerosmith. In 2006, he handed over "KMRii" to a friend who had been with him since the company's launch, and in 2007, he established the men's brand "14th Addiction" and the women's brand "Catorce", which mainly focus on clothing.

"I didn't intend to start a fashion brand, but I made a few leather jackets, which were very well received, and the brand was born naturally from that. I don't feel like I'm in the fashion business at all, I just incorporate the inspiration I get from my travel experiences into my clothes. I project the people I meet on my travels, the scenery I see, and the messages I feel at each moment. My way of expression happens to be making clothes, bags, shoes, and accessories, so I definitely put my spirit into each and every piece."

The theme of this season is "Eternal Voyager." TERUKI has returned to his roots and created a powerful lineup by tracing his memories of his own travels. At the collection held in Tokyo recently, close friends of his, musician MIYAV- and director Takashi Tamura (Drum Can), also supported the show, adding a touch of glamour.

"I didn't go to fashion school or study fashion, but the experiences and knowledge I gained from traveling alone to unfamiliar places have really helped me. I don't want to get stuck in a mold in the pursuit of individuality, but rather, I want to break the mold and go all out! That's my message. I would be happy if we could give people who come into contact with our work a little nudge in the direction of wear it. I would like to continue making things like that."

[kimoana]

The Evolving Landscape of the Travel Industry in the Past Five Years

Over the past five years, the travel industry has undergone a transformative journey, navigating through a dynamic landscape shaped by a confluence of factors. The profound impact of the global pandemic, coupled with rapid technological advancements and the ever-evolving preferences of consumers, has molded the industry into a new paradigm. This report delves into the multifaceted changes that have unfolded, analyzing the interplay of these influential elements and their implications on the travel sector. From adapting to unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic to harnessing the power of emerging technologies, the travel industry finds itself at a crucial juncture, seeking innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs and expectations of a discerning global audience.

Rise of Experiential Travel Travelers have increasingly sought out unique and immersive experiences over traditional sightseeing. This led to a surge in popularity for activities like food tours, cultural encounters, and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Bye Bye Bland Brochures Forget generic tours! Travelers crave EPIC EXPERIENCES, like truffle hunting in Italy or dog sledding in Iceland. Forget "been there, done that," it's all about "felt that, learned that!"

Sharing Economy Takeover Airbnb ain't just for hipsters anymore! Renting homes and cars from locals becomes the norm, blurring the line between tourist and temporary resident.

Save the Planet, See the World Sustainability is sexy! Travelers flock to eco-conscious destinations, choose green hotels, and ditch plastic souvenirs for locally-made crafts. Mother Earth thanks you!

Next Five Years: Buckle Up, Space Cadets!

Mind-Blowing Personalization Imagine a trip built just for you! AI reads your travel DNA, crafting hyper-personalized itineraries, recommending hidden gems, and predicting your next wanderlust move.

Wellness Warriors Unite Forget souvenir shot glasses, travelers seek mind-body-soul rejuvenation. Yoga retreats in Bali, meditation in Morocco, and digital detox in the Himalayas -inner peace is the new souvenir.

Touchdown on Mars Space tourism takes off Blast off to the final frontier, witness Earth from orbit, and brag about your out-of-this-world vacation pics.

So ditch the dusty guidebooks and prepare for an adventure-filled future! Whether you're seeking soul-stirring experiences or celestial escapades, the world and maybe even beyond awaits!

[dreamvacati]

DreamVacati - Your Portal to Unforgettable Travel Experiences

Welcome to DreamVacati, where your travel dreams come to life! Explore the world's most captivating destinations, uncover hidden gems, and embark on unforgettable adventures with us. Let DreamVacati be your trusted companion on your journey to extraordinary experiences and unforgettable memories.

Why Choose DreamVacati?

Inspiring Destination Guides: Immerse yourself in our curated destination guides, where we showcase the beauty and diversity of the world's most iconic landmarks, vibrant cities, and natural wonders. From the picturesque streets of Paris to the serene beaches of Bali, our guides provide invaluable insights and insider tips to help you plan your dream vacation.

Expert Travel Tips and Advice: Explore our expert travel tips and advice, designed to enhance every aspect of your travel experience. From packing essentials and navigating airport security to cultural etiquette and safety precautions, we've got you covered with practical advice to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Authentic Travel Stories: Dive into our collection of authentic travel stories, shared by fellow adventurers and wanderers from around the globe. From heartwarming encounters with locals to awe-inspiring adventures off the beaten path, our travel stories capture the essence of wanderlust and the joy of exploration.

Exclusive Travel Deals and Discounts: Take advantage of exclusive travel deals and discounts curated specifically for DreamVacati readers. Whether you're searching for discounted airfare, hotel packages, or immersive travel experiences, our partnerships with leading travel providers ensure you get the best value for your money.

Join the DreamVacati Community

Connect with Fellow Travelers: Join our vibrant community of travelers and share your own experiences, insights, and travel tips. Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for exploration and discovery, and forge lasting friendships across continents.

Stay Updated with the Latest Trends: Stay informed with the latest trends, news, and developments in the world of travel. From emerging destinations to sustainable travel practices, we keep you in the loop with informative articles and thought-provoking discussions.

Start Your Journey with DreamVacati

Click the link below to visit DreamVacati and begin your journey to extraordinary destinations and unforgettable experiences.

Explore DreamVacati

Start planning your next adventure today with DreamVacati, where every journey begins with a dream. Welcome aboard!

[atheostic]

Ever notice that so called progressives will often side with religious groups when said groups are super misogynistic?? I saw a video of a woman pointed out the sexism of a temple in Bali that forbade menstruating women from entering and people treated her like shit because of how “racist” she was for pointing out religious sexism.

Is it messed up that menstruating women can't enter a temple?

Yes, just as it's messed up that there are some religious items in Cree culture that menstruating women aren't allowed to touch.

The woman who called out the issue is, in fact, right that (whether intentionally or otherwise) banning women who are menstruating from religious activities necessarily insinuates that female biology is dirty and unholy.

She's completely right about that.

However, people who are mad at her aren't being entiiiirely unreasonable either. As they say on Facebook, it's complicated.

Arguments that it's okay because "it's part of their culture" are indeed myopic and hypocritical, as there is plenty of stuff that's cultural in origin (e.g. female genital mutilation) that most Westerners wouldn't hesitate to judge and declaim. Hell, just look at how Westeners portray cannibals and cannibalism (which was a RELIGIOUS practice by some Indigenous cultures in my country of origin). Those arguments are bs, no doubt about it.

That being said, I DO get why a white woman travelling to a non-white country and criticizing how the locals live their lives would cause people to automatically raise their hackles, especially as Bali has a history of being exploited by white folk.

They're missing the nuances in the situation but their outrage isn't entirely misplaced either. Kind of a case of "He a bit confused but he got the spirit."

[20232]

Island Paradise: The Serene Beauty of Bali, Indonesia

Bali, the "Island of the Gods," is a true paradise on Earth. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, it has captured the hearts of travellers from around the globe. Nestled in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali offers a serene and enchanting experience that is unlike any other. From pristine beaches and lush rice terraces to ancient temples and vibrant markets, this tropical haven has something for everyone. Join us on a journey as we explore the serene beauty of Bali, immersing ourselves in its natural wonders, cultural treasures, and soul-soothing experiences.

Enchanting Beaches and Crystal-clear Waters

Bali is renowned for its breathtaking beaches that stretch along its coastline. From popular destinations like Kuta and Seminyak to hidden gems like Nusa Dua and Sanur, each beach offers its own unique charm. Picture-perfect white sands, swaying palm trees, and azure waters create a postcard-worthy scene. Whether you're looking to relax under the sun, surf the waves, or indulge in exhilarating water sports like snorkelling and diving, Bali's beaches cater to every preference. A visit to the stunning beaches of Bali is a must for any traveller seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.

Ubud: The Cultural Heart of Bali 

Located amidst lush greenery and terraced rice fields, Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. This charming town is a haven for art enthusiasts, yoga practitioners, and seekers of spiritual enlightenment. Explore the vibrant local markets where you'll find unique handicrafts, textiles, and traditional artworks. Visit the magnificent Ubud Palace and witness captivating Balinese dance performances. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Ubud Monkey Forest, where cheeky macaques roam freely amidst ancient temples. For a transformative experience, participate in a yoga or meditation retreat that will rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Ubud is a place where creativity, spirituality, and natural beauty converge.

Temples: A Glimpse into Balinese Spirituality 

Bali is known for its countless temples, each with its own story and significance. The island's spiritual essence is deeply rooted in Hinduism, and the temples provide a glimpse into Balinese religious and cultural practices. The iconic Tanah Lot temple, perched on a rock formation by the sea, is a sight to behold, especially during sunset. Uluwatu Temple, located on a cliff with stunning ocean views, is not only a place of worship but also a venue for mesmerising Kecak dance performances. Besakih Temple, known as the "Mother Temple," is the largest and most important Hindu temple in Bali, set against the backdrop of Mount Agung. Exploring these sacred sites allows travellers to appreciate the deep spirituality and devotion of the Balinese people.

Rice Terraces: The Green Tapestry of Bali 

The iconic rice terraces of Bali are a testament to the island's agricultural heritage. The intricate system of rice cultivation, known as subak, has been practised for centuries and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The emerald-green rice fields, with their cascading tiers, create a stunning visual spectacle. Tegalalang and Jatiluwih are two of the most famous rice terrace destinations in Bali. Take a leisurely stroll through the terraces, breathe in the fresh air, and witness the farmers at work. The rice terraces not only offer a breathtaking landscape but also provide insight into the sustainable farming practices that sustain the island's economy.

Balinese Cuisine: A Gastronomic Journey 

No visit to Bali is complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. Balinese food is a flavorful blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and cultural influences. Sample the famous Babi Guling (suckling pig), Satay, and Nasi Goreng (fried rice) at local warungs (small eateries). Immerse yourself in the unique dining experience of a traditional Balinese feast, known as a "megibung," where a variety of dishes are served on a banana leaf. Don't forget to try the refreshing and healthy Balinese specialty, Jajan Pasar (market snacks), which includes colourful and sweet treats. Bali also boasts a thriving café culture, with quaint coffee shops serving artisanal coffee and innovative dishes. Embark on a gastronomic journey that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Conclusion 

Bali, Indonesia's Island Paradise, offers a serene and awe-inspiring experience that captivates travellers. From its enchanting beaches and spiritual temples to its cultural hub in Ubud and breathtaking rice terraces, Bali showcases the beauty of nature, the richness of its heritage, and the warmth of its people. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a spiritual retreat, Bali has it all. The island's allure lies not only in its physical beauty but also in the spiritual essence that permeates every corner. A visit to Bali is a journey of self-discovery and connection with nature and culture. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Bali, and let this island paradise weave its magic on your soul.

[bardic-tales]

New Fandom OC: Uncharted

Over the years, since playing the first Uncharted, I had this inspiration for a character who was a bartender in Bali, hoping to flesh her out but somehow she just fell to the waste side for better, more flesh out OCs: Annabelle Vasser, Cynthia Prescost, and Adaki Arturis, including my own original writing.

5 years after Thief's End

The setting is 5 years after the events of "A Thief's End", and unfortunately, Elena and Cassie have been murdered by Rourke MacLoughlin to give Nathan Drake motivation to find the journal of famed treasure hunter: Arthur "Art" Donovan. This journal will lead him to the Ark of the Covenant.

Four years before their deaths, Rourke and his men torture and kill Donovan for the location of his journal which possesses images and drawings related to significant locations like Petra and Solomon's Temple. These details in his journal hold crucial information about the Ark, making him a valuable source of knowledge.

Nate journeys to Bali in hopes of finding the journal and start his adventure for the elusive Ark of the Covenant, but he didn't intend on meeting Arthur's daughter: a ginger named Niamh Donovan. She is pivotal to helping him come to terms with Elena and Cassie's deaths.

Niamh Donovan - mixologist and surrogate daughter to Victor Sullivan.

Fortune favors the bold, and I'm not one to shy away.

Allow me to introduce Niamh Donovan, a spirited mixologist, intrepid explorer, and skilled bullwhip wielder. With a magnetic personality and a passion for uncovering hidden gems, Niamh's bartending skills are matched only by her insatiable thirst for adventure.

Inspired by her late father, Arthur Donovan, a renowned archaeologist and the real-life inspiration for the legendary Indiana Jones, Niamh has inherited a love for all things ancient and mysterious. Her father's untimely death at the hands of the nefarious Rourke MacLoughlin, a merciless member of the IRA with a dark agenda, shattered her world. Alongside imparting his vast knowledge of history and archaeology, Arthur also taught Niamh the art of wielding a bullwhip, a skill that she has honed to perfection.

Enter Victor "Sully" Sullivan, a long-term friend of Niamh's father and the second person to hold her in his arms when she was born. Sully became her surrogate father, offering guidance, support, and a wealth of knowledge acquired from his own adventurous endeavors. Together, they share a bond that goes beyond blood, forging an unbreakable connection based on shared experiences and a mutual desire to protect one another.

In the midst of these personal upheavals, Niamh and Sully find solace and a headquarters for their thrilling escapades at Sunset Shores, the bar Niamh owns in the heart of Bali. Nestled along the idyllic coastline, Sunset Shores serves as more than just a watering hole for locals and travelers. Behind the bar's tropical façade lies a hidden world of maps, artifacts, and plans—a secret base where Niamh and Sully strategize their expeditions and regale patrons with tales of their daring adventures.

As the sun sets on the horizon, casting a golden glow over Sunset Shores, Niamh shakes up exotic cocktails inspired by her global travels. The bar becomes a haven for those seeking a taste of adventure, with its walls adorned with relics and memorabilia from Niamh's expeditions. It's here that she imparts her passion for mixology to eager patrons, showcasing her creativity and attention to detail in every sip.

With the bar's vibrant atmosphere and the constant influx of fascinating characters passing through its doors, Sunset Shores becomes a hub of information, a place where rumors and whispers of ancient treasures circulate like the ocean breeze. Niamh and Sully sift through these tales, piecing together the puzzle of their next adventure over glasses of expertly crafted libations.

In the midst of these personal upheavals, fate throws Niamh into the path of Nathan Drake, the legendary adventurer with a penchant for danger. As they embark on thrilling quests across the globe, Niamh discovers that Rourke's lieutenant approaches Drake with a twisted offer: the possibility of bringing back Elena and Cassie, Nate's beloved wife and daughter, by locating the Ark of the Covenant. Unbeknownst to Drake, Rourke harbors a sinister ambition to acquire the Staff of Aaron, a hidden artifact within the Ark, which he believes will make him the next messiah.

The timing couldn't be more precarious, as their journey commences in 2020, just weeks before Kuta Beach, Bali plunges into lockdown due to the global pandemic. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, Niamh, Drake, and Sully must navigate treacherous paths, solve ancient riddles, and outmaneuver Rourke's cunning henchmen. It's a race against time to uncover the secrets of the Ark of the Covenant, protect their loved ones' memory, and prevent Rourke from achieving his apocalyptic ambitions.

So, grab a drink and join Niamh Donovan on her exhilarating journey of adventure, mixology, and redemption. Raise your glass to her inspiring lineage, her surrogate father Sully, and the thrilling unknown that lies ahead. Cheers to new horizons, unforgettable friendships, and the legacy of legends!

Tagging some of my fanfiction mutuals:

@asirensrage @serenofroses @megandaisy9 @arrthurpendragon @prehistoric-creatures @residentdormouse @starryeyes2000

[littlewalken]

TIL that Daniel Vangarde (Bangalter) went from being banned on French radio to seeing his son win album of the year and more at the Grammys. He was there when Daft Punk won everything.

Now I got to go look at the Grammy footage and see if I can see him.

transcript of the Bilboard.com article:

Daniel Vangarde, Father Of Daft Punk’s Thomas Bangalter & Disco Innovator, Breaks His Silence

From his home in Brazil, the 75-year-old legend reflects on being banned from French radio, the best advice he gave to Daft Punk and the re-release of his catalog: "I think I will not die."

Daniel Vangarde has lived a fascinating life. He’s lived at least three of them, in fact. 

His first act was as a producer, A&R and all-around catalyst for some of the most popular European disco and funk acts of the 1970s and ’80s, shifting millions of copies. Since the late 2000s he’s been residing and working in a Brazilian village of 750 people, teaching English, computer literacy, vocational skills and a range of artistic expression.

Somewhere in the middle he fathered a son, Thomas Bangalter, who also made some decent records himself. 

Vangarde (born Bangalter) helped guide the early movements of Daft Punk, at a time when the pre-Homework duo had magic in their fingertips but hadn’t yet mastered the close control of image and narrative which forged their mystique. Vangarde doled out critical advice to Thomas, Guy-Manuel and a coterie of close friends in the ’90s Parisian scene, instilling in them the requisite knowledge to play the industry game on their own terms and better enabling them to sculpt their consequential destiny. 

Then followed a high-profile battle with France’s publishing and rights society, SACEM, over both restrictive practices for modern artists and historical aberrations for post-World War II remuneration to Jewish musicians. Sufficiently content with both his own success and the imprint he left on the next generation, Vangarde retreated into silence, only fleetingly emerging when required (including a trip to the 2014 Grammy Awards, where he watched his son clean up). There were no plans to issue communiqués with the music ecosystem — until now.

Following a deal with powerhouse French label Because Music, the vaults of Vangarde’s Zagora Records have been busted open. The resultant compilation, Daniel Vanguarde: The Vaults of Zagora Records Mastermind (1971 - 1984), out Nov. 25 on Because Music, should re-situate him in a lineage of discotheque-pleasers with a taste for suave, symphonic and Star Wars-influenced material that bristles with joie de vivre. The comp is surprisingly tight for an era which left no excess untested; it’s not a stretch to say, from the colorway of his suit down to his perm, the Daniel Vangarde peering out from the cover might just have been the model for Disco Stu.

Having undertaken the grand sum of zero English-language interviews for 75 years, Vangarde made himself available to Billboard from the deep Bahian forests for an extremely rare and rather charming conversation about it all. 

One thing that’s clear across your life is a fascination with culture and society outside of your own. You produced artists from the French Antilles and the West Indies, kickstarted a cossack dance craze in the late ’60s, and latterly founded an NGO. Where does this curiosity stem from?

I always liked traveling: I spent 10 summers of my adolescence in Costa Brava [Spain], visited Swinging London, and in 1966 hitchhiked from New York down to Mexico in order to visit the Tarahumara. Life felt like an adventure.

In 1971, I happened upon Guadeloupe and loved it — the people, the place, and the local rhythmic music, biguine, which I took back to work on in Paris. Throughout trips to Kathmandu, Bali and Malaysia in the ’70s, my love for African, Arabian, South American and other music outside the French or Anglo-Saxon tradition kept growing.

What were your dreams for the world back then?

Ah, that is easy. I was curious about the globe and completely against war. I was politically active from a young age. I was arrested during the student revolution in ’68 and spent three nights in a jail cell without light. That was very frightening. They say there were no deaths but I am certain this is untrue, there was great violence. For years afterward I had to cross the street whenever I saw a policeman, you know?

You had post-traumatic stress?

Yes, yes, it was this: it was post-traumatic stress. But I stayed against nuclear factories, against the Algerian War and successfully avoided my own military service. I did not change my point of view that mass consumption is a dead-end of civilization. In 1968, we had spiritual belief in a more open future. Today we have realism about our present moment, and that is what it is.

When you were 25, you and longtime collaborator Jean Kluger came up with Yamasuki, a faux-Japanese project whose only release is still pored over by record collectors and DJs like Four Tet. Why did you decide to jump into the deep end with such a specific concept? 

Listen to this article

After the success of “Casatschok,” I was mostly considered a choreographer. Shows about kung fu were beginning to sweep through television, so Kluger and I thought about creating a Japanese dance, which we called Yamasuki, but the great sound of the music caught on more. We really got into a Japanese mindset: I bought an English-to-Japanese phrasebook, we learned phonetic pronunciation and taught a children’s choir lyrics in Japanese. We even hired a karate master to deliver a shout of death [kiai] — except he had no sense of rhythm, so I would stand in the studio, cueing him when to shout… and trembling on the other side of the mic.

As disco became popular globally, and you had French artists like Cerrone winning Grammy Awards for Best New Artist, was there any competition or jealousy? Or did you regard them as your peers?

Peers, totally. There was no competition at all. If there was any competition, in fact, it was with American and English production. I never used a mastering studio; I would be there at the Phillips factory, watching the acetate get pressed, making sure the sound was impeccable. Cerrone, he was not a friend, but we would see each other at the discotheques when taking our new records to the DJ for promotion. The same applies for Jacques Morali {the disco producer responsible for the Village People] — at this time, for the French to have success away from home was a great feeling.

Some of the records you worked on were massive. “D.I.S.C.O.” was the third biggest-seller of 1980 in Germany and the fifth in the UK; the Gibson Brothers sold millions of copies; you’ve been sampled and covered by Erykah Badu, Bananarama, Roger Sanchez — it’s a legacy of success by any other name. Did that come as a surprise to you?

I will say that when I started to make songs, I wanted to write to The Beatles and tell them that there should be five members. [Laughs] I was this certain that I could bring something to them. I imagine that maybe everybody that records hopes that his music will be understood and appreciated by the public. But even if I was expecting success, I recognize it’s a great privilege to live your life off of music. 

What was your relationship to fame throughout all this?

I only did one LP as a frontman, which had the privilege of being banned on radio and television. The lyrics concerned how France is the third biggest producer of bombs and mines. Of course, that’s a state secret, so the record was buried, and I was never a frontman again. But that’s alright: I was an author, composer and producer; an artisan. I sought no fame, no show business. A reporter asked me recently: “So you live your life in the shadows?” And I said, “No! I live in the light, normally, like you do.”

Interest in the Zagora reissue is however fun to me, because I was not fashionable at all. I produced La Compagnie Créole, a very big band in the ’80s, and we could sell out three nights at L’Olympia but I could never once get a journalist to come see the show. That’s just how it was then. If it’s not chanson, it’s not serious. In France, popular music is suspicious.

By the time your career wound down around 1990, was the love for music still present? Was it a creative rupture or a decision to be with your family?

Truthfully, I was not producing music that excited me, and I thought it unwise to carry on. When making a hit my hands would become wet while mixing, and a physical sensation would overtake my belly. So if I was not feeling anything, why would anyone else? Also, there was a new generation doing dance music, and of course this was very close for me.

Yes, on that note… perhaps no one in the last 10 years has done more to kickstart the revival of disco and analog production than your son, Thomas. Why do you think that era has swept back into the public consciousness? 

I can see why. Nothing replaces rhythm. Songs that you can dance to, with a melody you can sing — not rap, not techno, not even Daft Punk can compete with this human response to a good feeling. There are different chapels today: you have country radio, rap radio, rock radio, but the old repertoire has maintained.

What aggregates the masses are famous hits, and disco was the last of this kind of music. When they decided that disco was over and they started to burn the records [1979’s infamous bonfire of hate, Disco Demolition], I thought it was a joke, because I never thought happy, dancing music could possibly fade. And when disco came back, I realized it hadn’t faded after all.

Your know-how helped ground not only a young Daft Punk, but also their peers Phoenix and Air, all of whom credit your advice with allowing them to navigate the music biz and retain creative freedom.

I think all artists should have this freedom. I helped Thomas, Guy-Man and their friends as much as I could to allow them to release without barriers. They were only 20 years old and the industry could have squeezed them — a normal contract generates interference between your work and the time it’s released. I made an introduction to my English lawyer, who is still [Daft Punk’s] lawyer today, and advised them not to let the author’s rights society in France authorize their music for film or publicity. My input was to help create a good environment that allowed them to produce freely.

Do you think the industry is a better place for young artists now than it was in the ’90s, or the ’70s? Or is it contingent on who you are?

That’s difficult to say. I think the music industry is in a terrible situation, not because of the internet, but because record companies and publishers didn’t know how to use the internet. When I helped Thomas set up Daft Club [a groundbreaking hub for digital downloads and fan service, released in tandem with 2001’s Discovery] even then, many considered the internet science fiction for geeks. And what was the result? 

They should have contracted the hackers! The best guy from Napster should have been contracted by record companies to organize a new paid system. At a time when people paid $10-20 for an LP, of course they would have accepted paying $1 instead. But the industry did nothing, music became like free air, and once the value collapsed to zero for many years, it was hard to come back from this.

In the ’70s, the artistic directors of a record company or programmers of a radio station held all the control. So I didn’t think it was good then. But I can’t say it’s better today either. It’s difficult for true talent to break through or generate wealth in the same fashion as before.

As you’ve never given interviews, your working practice from that era is lost. I mean — Bangalter now rings with a uniqueness and star quality, so why did you use Vangarde as your professional surname?

I wanted to allow future Thomas to use Bangalter! No, I chose a pen name in case I had success; I did not wish to book a hotel or restaurant and be recognized. Why Vangarde? Originally I had prepared Morane, the name of a small French plane in the early 1900s. But on the day of registration with SACEM, this was already taken, so I was given one minute to change. I quickly thought of another plane called the Vanguard, and this stuck by complete accident.

You’ve been distant from your own catalog for so long. Why now? 

I’m afraid it’s not very romantic. I have known Emmanuel [de Buretel, kingpin of French electronic music] since he was 25. When Because Music showed interest in buying Zagora Records and releasing some old tracks, I trusted them, and said, “You’ll be the owner of the catalog, so if you want to, yes.” As I have never done photos or interviews, I did not expect interest at all. I could even not remember some of their choices, so I had to go on YouTube and listen back as I was certain these were not my songs! To see any reaction has been a huge shock. Because made a very good decision.

So you never considered what you’d like your legacy to be?

I think I will not die. I have songs that I did 50 years ago that are still popular. If people are happy when they hear the songs and go to dance, or go to see the bands still touring, they do not die. This is the answer of my legacy.

And are you satisfied?

Yes, I’m very happy. I have the privilege to do what I want, and a good personal life… in the shadows. [Laughs] I have a good relationship with Thomas and now I have two grandchildren. One is 20 years old and the other is 14 — I love them. I go on being free and having my health. What more can I ask for?

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