SCRIBBLING A LITTLE SOMETHING

Trip To The Local Market- Various Location In Mynmar

2011-02-24T21:12:00.000-08:00

Been traveling for sometime and seeing many things. Something’s are exciting and some aren't. I believe that the most exciting things are usually found in the market, from vegetables to meat, flowers, yummylious food and in the case of Myanmar absolutely everything even gambling.

At times, when you are lucky you also will see interesting events. This time around I saw two scenes, (i) two lady selling goods fighting with each other and ii) two man and a lady (prostitute), one of the man was trying to take the lady away, but she cried and pleaded to be free. At one point he was angry, he slit his hand into his shirt and pull out a handcuffs. Only then I knew he was undercover police in LONGY.

Apart from that, most amazing people are found at the market. They may at times cheat with the pricing as you are foreigner but they always smile, and be kind and trying to be chatty as they are so curious what in the world is this tourist doing in the market. Many times smiles, signage and calculator is all needed to communicate.

Here are some of the pictures taken from various markets in Myanmar.

Fake flowers, Yangon

Green leaves and beans in Yangoon

veges

fishes

Fresh noodles

anchovies

semi grown beans

Jewelleries

Mellon juice with lemon

beans

junk food

nails and screws

sugar cane

fried vadai's, bajji and tofu

noddle soup

fake money for prayers

dried fish

onions

Decoration flowers

Bananas

onions and garlics

dried meat

dried food for cooking

By the way unlike Vietnam, the dog is not for sale

cauliflower

Chilies

Not sure whats this

tomatoes

fresh flowers

beans and nuts

papadam

medicines

Murukus

Gambling

Trip to Vineyard- Inle Lake, Mynmar 12.02.2011

2011-02-24T20:11:00.000-08:00

It has always been my dream to visit apple farm or vineyard. I wish to plucked it, rubbed in on my shirt to take the dust away and bite it. Unfortunatley, apples and grapes are only found in places where flight are expensive.

So, when a new found friend in Mynmar told me that there were vineyard in Inle Lake, I agreed to meet him up in the evening without hesitation. It's on the hill top and we cycled there. The place was beautiful, rows and rows of green and red grapes in bunches, all ready to harvest. We tested the grapes, but not the wine, as there is NO FREE TESTING. A glass cost US3 and the bottle US10. I didn’t get either of it, only free dinner from the friend.

Here are some pictures taken at the vineyard.

So yummy!!!

Yuri and me

Goodbye 2010, and hello 2011

2011-01-03T21:19:00.000-08:00

Another year has passed by, with full of memories, adventures, acquaintances, lessons, moments, disappointment, anger, sadness and some feelings that has no words to describe. In simple words it was lovely. Not amazing or superb or awesome, just simply lovely. Lovely because it’s sweet, delightful and puts smile on my face every time I think about it. The year 2010 was just lovely.

Different people, different discoveries, different thought and it’s simply amazing. I gain some and loose some. But that’s part and parcel of life.

The best part of 2010 was traveling. I started with Thailand-Sabah-Indonesiai-Srilanga-India. And the best part of traveling is meeting most amazing people on earth. Good or bad, they will give some impact in one’s life, making one mature over the time, realizing dreams, discovering self and sometimes along the way getting lost.

Getting jiggy with teh tigers in thailand

Peak of Mt Kk for the 3rd time

Traveling to Jogja again with family

Adam's Peak in Sri Langka

Taj Mahal in India.

All along the way I meet friends, many that I cant remember their name but has been there like guardian angel. Sometimes a simple smile has made my day through out the journey. My friends who climbed mt kk, friends at uncle tan, friends I meet trekking northern Thailand and friends from sri langka and India.

The best of all was Jennifer, who I meet in Sabah. If its not for her, I would have never dare take trip to Sri langka, with only 2 weeks of planning or brave enough to go to one place that I loved and feared most to travel, India in just 3 days of planning. She made me see things and understand it differently.

And then there was Jerome from Sri Langka, who have changed my perspective big cities, humanity and sincerity and existence of good human being who simply wants nothing in return or at time ask beyond what can be given.

Others was Nilam, Nimal, Abdul satar, Rislan Janakan, Wahid, Suthakar, pipi and many others from Sri Langka, who made me smile from the moment I step in to the island till I departed. Amazing people.

India was one place that I meet people and start having doubt about friendship. Ronit, Deepak, Ranjan and others says things that so interesting at one point and act differently at another and then contradict themselves. Yet there were there at the right moment and the right time to just help and give impact in my life.

And of course not all thing last forever. Loosing my dear friend was the most difficult thing to happen. And that made me wonder.

And then there were moment in Fatehpur Sikri, India where I had doubt what to wish for, when I was sure what I was seeking for. Its so true, India is one place that you gain and loose your self.

Regrets of 2010, none! Everything happens for a reason, good or bad its life learning lesson. So now, I am looking forward for what stored in for me in the year 2011. I am heading with positive mindset, hopping 2011 will better then 2010. Hopping for another year of adventure, camel ride in jalsimer and sleep in the desert watching the stars , discovering myself in varnasi, find missing pieces in Nepal and finally ending my journey in Mynmar, a mysterious place that has been prolonging for a year. I also wish to learn extra language, learn swimming, loosing weight and also get my diving license for real. 2011 here I come.

Tales from India

2010-12-24T02:27:00.000-08:00

Day 1
Sunday, 12 December 2010

Arrived at Delhi Airport around 2 pm and went straight to White Klove in Pahar Ganj.

My taxi driver was Raj, aged 25, undergraduate and part time taxi driver, who claims to own more then a taxi and he had to drive today as no one around (Indian guys just love to brag about them self). He spoke well and gave me his number if I needed any help during my stay in Delhi.

Looking at the interior of White Klove, I expected the place to be a little decent compared to hotels at Karol Bagh. But only when the taxi turned to the corer of Main Bazaar did I realized that it’s a slum area and was wondering how was I to survive for next 3 days. Nevertheless, the hotel was indeed nice. Not wanting any hassle, I just booked the 3 day tour with the hotel, which a also include day city tour.

The journey to Delhi began with mighty Red Fort, which took about an hour or so to view it. The beauty of the building lies on the colour red. Couple of minutes away form Red Fort is Meena Bazaar and Chandini Chowk, where the famous Jama Masjid located. It was weekend and the place was crowded. So my driver instructed me to take trishaw. Even though it cost me additional RP100, it was worth it.

Red Fort

Jama Masjid has beautiful structure, however you cant view its beauty unless you get inside. Which comes down to the fact that people are charging RP250 illegally. Furthermore, one aren’t allow to walk further then just couple of feet from the main entrance because, (1) it was prayers time and (2) not a Muslim. So why charged RP250? I am confused!

Anyway, we got out from there and went to Jain, Shiva as well as Sikh temple, all different and all beautiful in its own way.

Jama Masjid

The trishaw driver dropped me back at Red Fort. My journey continued to India Gate which was also crowded with people and vendors. The best part of hagging around India Gate is not for the monument alone but to get the taste of the famous pani puri or bel puri with masala tea. It was simply delicious and one the best moment in India.

India Gate

The journey ended at Birla Temple, which was so beautiful and well organized. But what I like most was the fact that they didn’t ask single penny to look after the belongings. There is still hope for India.

Day 2
Monday, 13 December 2010

My seminar today is at Le Meridian, 10 minutes away from Pahar Ganj. The security was so tight that we had to do first screening at the car and second at the entrance of the door. The seminar was scheduled at 9 but only started at 10 and attended by all the oldies that was either promoting their product or getting connections. Nevertheless it was interesting. Apart from myself, there was another two foreigner and only 2 other ladies. The seminar ended at about 6 and, I headed back to White Klove. The taxi man, here are so persistence that he got me book him for tomorrow.

Not knowing what to do, I decided to venture out Pahar Ganj all by myself, with thousand of eyes staring really hard and wondering why is this girl all alone. And at times, they try to have conversation. Its one crazy, messed up, crowded, noisy dirty area, yet I like everything about it. Its so cool and challenging. Every turn has an alley; and every alley has something to see or leads to some where. One corner is the Main Bazaar, another the Metro and another the railway station. The walk was endless and thrilling. Every turn, various items are sold, from clothes to jewels, to house hold product, fabric, spice and food and so on. So what does the shopaholic like me does? Shop till I got lost.

As I was finding my way back I meet, Ranjan, aged 32 (may be because I said I was 31), owns budget hotel, not married (yah right, he had pink food bag and soft toy in his car), claim to be pious and also vegetarian (as I said I was one) and loved to meet and help foreigner especially Malaysian (as he's been here before). I was trying my best to avoid him but I was lost and he was willing to show me the way. To cut the long story short, and save the hassle of explaining how persistence Indian man can be, by the time I reached the hotel, I agreed to go for drink at Connought Place, which was just walking distance (but we ended up driving there).

From the moment we meet, it was non stop bragging about himself. He was trying really hard to impress me and it was too obvious. By the time we finished our dinner (which he paid for as I am his guest), took ride around town, and too much talking, I knew I had to simply get back to my hotel. So he dropped me back and I told him that will catch up for tea tomorrow. Why? Because I was not yet an expert to read the signs and always bad at lies.

Day 3
Tuesday, 14 December 2010

My day started by visiting Qutub Minar which was at the other end of the city and then to Lotus Temple. I loved Qutub Minar. Though my initial plan was to continue to Purana Quila and Humayum Tomb, I was send to Delhi Haat by my taxi river. Its Government shop, yet I shopped and I am blaming on the tea.

Qutub Minar

Lotus Temple

Sort of went to conference and later in the evening meet Ranjan for tea, and shopping at local market near Lajpat Nagar. Which was glad to go as things was lot better then Pahar Ganj. Yeah I know I am bad.

By the time the day ends, too much talking and arguing, he realized it wasn’t going on his track and said, that I wasn’t as innocent as I looked when he first meet. So to cut the story short, I was back at the hotel and we waived good by and agreed to meet on Saturday if either of us around.

Day 4

Wednesday 14 December 2010

My driver, Munna Bai was little man who spoke very little English and eat paan a lot. Our destination was Jaipur, 5 ½ hours away. I loved my journey - the camels, man in turbans, ladies in colourful Saree and yellow mustard flowers was superb. Yet, the best part of it was meeting Diana, from Switzerland, just arrived from airport, spoke little English and was ripped of by the driver and ended up in my car.

We arrived around 3 pm and wanted to do shopping. But Diana had no place to stay and my room was beyond her budget and too far from the city, which was 10 km. So I offered drop her at the hotel after shopping and she agreed as she wanted to shop too.

Instead of local market, we ended up in Government shop, which I was angry at first, but when the tea went down the throat and I was calm, I did serious shopping (actually sew). My clothes would be sewed, dye and delivered in one day.

Later, we found a hotel for Diana and agreed to meet tomorrow for city tour. I headed back to my hotel ate and slept.

Mustard flowers

Day 5
Thursday, 16 December 2010

We started our trip at about 8, stopping by Albert Hall for pictures, picked up Diana and headed to Hawa Mahal, which was indeed beautiful. From there, we headed to Jal Mahal, also known as Water Palace, where we picked up our guide. Ronit, aged 26, dress to impress, had good command of English (as he claimed to be doing MBA at the moment), not into relationship but only friends which he said it like mantra over and over and over till, finally at one point I actually got what he was trying to tell. Oh yeah, he also had some sad story. But what I like about him was that he made me cheat on my entrance ticket at all 3 places.

Albert Hall

Hawa Mahal

Jal Mahal (Water Palace)

Amber Fort

Jaigarh Fort

Pink City Palace

He was nice all through out the journey and at times being too open minded, but I, who was friendly at first got really mad. First the incident with the Government shop, then with the closing of Jantar Mantar, no local bazaar and above all expensive restaurants. To cut the story short, we departed not as friend but two annoyed people. I realized, at that point, if you don’t follow their lead, they will ditch you. But they are always polite to ask what do you think? So I said we are friends but I still want to shop at local bazaar.

Instead I went back to Satguru to collect my clothes, which also got me mad as I asked him to do one and he did another. What a day.

Luckily Muna Bai took me to local market at Bappu Bazaar or I would have given him silent treatment the next day. The local market was superb. It’s cheaper, better quality, nicer and worth the money. So what does shopaholic does, shop like crazy.

Then due to stupidly of Muna Bai and myself, I waited in cold for almost an hour. Luckily, there was two man, who spoke little English, worked at he bank where I was waiting, took pity of me and called Munna Bai. Angels are always out there by my side. Went back, packed and slept smiling.

Day 6,

Friday, 17 December 2010.

We departed to Agra about 8 am stopping first at Fatehpur Sikri. I slept all through out journey. Not sure why, but this time Muna Bai mentioned that there will be guide fee that I should not pay more then RP200. So I negotiated till RP300 including tuk tuk and no entrance fee as I declared my self as local, Tamil Nadu, Chenai and if anyone would have further it would have been T-Nagar.

My guide, was Nazeem and he was no nonsense like others as their intention was MONEY. So instead of entrance fees, I paid additional RP500 to make 3 wishes, and for that need a cloth, flower and 3 pieces of strings. For the first time in my life, I had doubt on what I want to wish for, and that pisst me off. Putting that aside, the building was superb. But unfortunately I only saw one portion of it. Either its closed or he wasn't taking me as he presumed its not worth looking at or because I didn't pay the entrance fees. An hour later I was back at my car and was on my way to Agra.

Fatehpur Sikri

There, I was greeted by my third guide, Deepak, a young boy of 26, in his final year, also studying Spanish, adorable, no girlfriend as he has no time and as he come from middle income problematic family (yeah they all sure have stories, which they tell it in style that one will truly believe it). The difference between Deepak and the rest was that he looked innocent, dressed innocent, talked innocent and behaved innocent, till…..

The Taj was closed on Friday, so the only option left was to to go Red Fort. Unlike other guide, he made me pay for foreigner price of RP250, as he didn’t want to cheat and the money used to pay for orphanage. The place was amazing and after an hour of looking around we sat, enjoyed the view and started to talk. He asked me what I want do and I told him shopping of course but only at local place as I am fed up with Government rated shop, buying miniature Taj as well as going backwater boat ride at Taj. He said he will check it out first as it was Muaram and the Muslim gather there for some ceremony.

He checked and the back water boat ride was a no as the traffic was bad and we ended up at Marble factory and jewel shop. I refused tea at both places and was rude enough to decline to buy at both places. From there not knowing what to do, we ended up shopping complexes across the hotel. My initial thought was that I will be loitering alone, but he stayed on and we ended up watching movie together which took me by surprise.

The movie was scheduled at 6.45 pm, and we had almost 3 hours to kill. Since I didn't want to get back to hotel, we talked, eat, drank chai on the street and talk more. Every hour his tone was different, his thought were different and act was different. He portrayed of himself as one bloody innocent naive guy and occasionally self praise and also bragged that he buys expensive stuffs. A hour later, he confessed that I am very nice person and if I was only 26, he would have asked me for marriage. That was funny and I thought it was a joke of the town.

Things were so fine till it was second part of the movie where he started to talk strange stuff. It was damn funny and I can laughed at it now. He said, ‘Ma’am, I am not sure why but I am attracted to you. See ma’am my hand are cold and shaking”.

It took me by suprise as he was so innocent moment ago and being so direct after that. I didn't know what to say but laugh and said, ‘You were just fine a moment ago but what happen. Why talking nonsense’.

He replied, “Its feeling ma’ama it just happen.” Half way through, he get anxious, and say "Oh no, you gonna tell my agency and gonna loose my job, I am sorry and and I didn't mean too". Then moment later back to square one. It went on till the end of movie, which I was no longer watching. In my mind there was only one thing, what did I get my self into this time!

He kept on asking me what to do repeatedly and I said I have got nothing to say and it’s just stupid. So the movie ended and he walked me back to my hotel. He had to as his bike was there. Luckily we decided up front on no dinner, or I cant imagine how the conversation would have lead to. So we sat at the lobby and talked, a little while as it was too awkward because the guys at the hotel was constantly walking up and down to clean up the place.

He said he has no heart to leave and not sure how he going to face it tomorrow and day after and was He was so agitated and putting on puppy sad faces. His acting was so real that could make any lady vulnerable instantly. What his real intention was clueless, as I was not following his path but what I like about this Indians is that they always ask, "what I shall do Ma’am". I only can tolerate a little nonsense, but this was bizarre, so I told him to go home and meet tomorrow to see the Taj. With his heavy heart, waived good bye and told that he will survive and never forget the day or myself.

Till now, I am shocked and speechless with that innocent looking guy, with all the man in India and their mentality.

Day 7
Saturday, 18 December 2010

Deepak behaved like it was our first meeting and nothing happened. He was so cool, but I on the other hand was feeling awkward (as I still couldn't digest what went on last night). Since he said nothing, I didn't too. I paid RP750, which was not going to the poor as I was given back used ticked (and when asked Deepak said, "I know you are right ma'am").

Since we were maintaining our friendship, there was less talking and joking and it turn our to be the quickest tour ever and most boring. So, despite looking at the most beautiful building in the world, I had empty feeling. May be its because of Deepak, or the building was just blunt or I just hate the history behind the Taj.

Anyway, by 8 something we were done with Taj and he took me straight to hotel, waived good by and left. So I packed my bag and left to Delhi.

Deepak and I at Taj

You see, to conclude my encounter with Indian man, it feels like they have been groomed by someone, same person perhaps. They act the same, think the same, talk the same and behave the same. Its always money, help, friendship or beyond that. When they don’t get what they want, it’s a sharp good bye. I know I shouldn't conclude Indian man's mentality or behavior by comparing to handful of man I meet along the way in short period of time. But for a country full of customs, traditions and believes, that was unacceptable, especially when one is behaving such to foreign people especially to Indian origin. Its pure disappointment.

Day 8

Sunday, 19 December 2010.

I was all packed and was left if only one thing buying mitai, which luckily could get just not far from hotel Waived good by to all and left with mix feeling, an urge to stay yet same urge to leave.

I always believe that people will change when to get to India, for better or worst. I went to there to find answers, but found none. Instead I came back with disturbed mind. A doubt! A doubt about my self, what I really want and what I stand for.

No, that not what I was thinking. It has got nothing to do with those boys and their behavior towards myself. It happened at Fatehpur Sikri, where I was given 3 pieces of strings for wishes and I hesitated. I actually had doubt what to wish for, especially the first and the most important one. That hesitation is killing me.

To worsen everything, as I was watching Eat Pray Love, half way through the movie I was in tears, as I felt lost without answers. Did I loose my path? Did I loose my faith? Only time could tell and I think I need another journey to India to find out.

Notes:

Paan; betel leave

Bel Puri : puff rice dish with potato and tangy tamarind sauce

Pani Puri : hollow puri, fried crisp and filled with a mixture of water, tamarind, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion and chickpeas.

mitai: local sweets

bai: brother

masala tea: spiced tea

chai: tea

Yummylicious Food of Langka

2010-12-03T00:35:00.000-08:00

When I travel, my bags are always filled with ice tea and granola bars. Sri Langka was the only place that I excluded it. Being fussy vegetarian that loves spicy food, Sri Langka provided with ample of yummylicious food. It was chilly all the way from dusk till dawn.

Breakfast

rotis, hoppers and breads, with dhall and sambol

Lunch & Dinner:

Rice and curry

Me and my food...

My all time favorite was “sambol”. Nope, there is nothing wrong with the spelling and it’s definitely not our famous nasi lemak sambal. Its simply coconut chutney with the twist of Langka. Here is the recipe to share with all:

Coconut Sambol

Ingredients

2 cups scraped, fresh coconut or desiccated coconut (add 1/4 cup of warm water and mix well to moisten the desiccated coconut).

2 small pearl onions or shallots, sliced.

1 small green chile, sliced.

1 clove garlic, sliced.

1-2 tsp Hot red chile powder.

1 tsp Salt.

1-2 tsp Maldive fish (optional).

1 medium lime.

Directions

Grind or chop all ingredients except coconut, in a grinder or chopper (a mortar & pestle can also be used).

Once the ingredients are crushed and mixed thoroughly, add the coconut.

Continue to grind until the coconut turns evenly red and all ingredients are well mixed. (This can also be done with fingers).

Squeeze half a lime. Mix well.

Taste and adjust salt & lime.

Serve with rice and curries.

Note: hoppers could be either paratha, putu mayam or appam

Mesmerizing Performance Of Langka

2010-12-03T00:07:00.000-08:00

Every county has its culture; every culture has its way of telling its story and every story is performed to mesmerize the audience. For Sri Langka, it’s the Kandy Dance. Known for its magical rhythm of the drum and fast movement, Kandyan Dance is a must-see for most travelers to Sri Lanka.

Adorable Ganesha

2010-05-04T21:08:00.000-07:00

Eventhough Lord Ganesha is only my second favorite god after My Dear Lord Murgan, I got to admit that this are the most adorable pictures of Lord Ganesha. I loved the middle one most, he has hair and has someone to do his home work!

Best Use of Face Book

2010-05-03T01:57:00.000-07:00

Bag packing

2010-04-29T19:11:00.000-07:00

About a year and half ago, not many circle of my friend and family knew what bag packing was. Some didn’t even understand the need to travel, what more travelling on budget and solo. All they ever know was book tour from home, travel in style, see what everybody oblige to see in nick of time, spend tones on money on unnecessary thing and come back to say that they have seen enough of that country.

However, in today’s lifestyle, thanks to AirAsia, people buy cheap ticket, book tour locally, travel abroad in style, see what everybody oblige to see in nick of time, spend tones on money on unnecessary thing and come back to say that they have seen enough of the country.

So where lay all the differences? The answer is on the bag pack. The theory today is that as long as you go holiday and carry a bag pack, you graduate as the bagpacker. Thus I told my mom, who frequently travel abroad that, from now onwards, I am calling you trolley packer, because she carry’s her trolley bag.

Furthermore, many people in that group claims that bag packing is easy. And all I do is give them the ‘whateva' look!

It took me almost 5 years to actually understand what bag packing and how is done, yet I struggle on every journey. Each time I go abroad, I learn something new and change my travelling pattern in order to move with confidence. Yet at times, luck is never on my side and all plans leads to failure.

So after travelling for quite sometimes now, I frequently ask myself these questions. Do I see bag packing as fun; my answer is yes. Do I like to travel alone; my answer would definitely be yes and yes. Do I see bag packing as easy; my answer is definitely big NO. But, if I get a sign from god before I depart, it’s a joyride all the way.

Bag packing is one thing, but going solo is another thing. Even though I have heard about it for a long time, I ought to stay my courage came from my sister’s friend, Charis. So what started as trying, leads me to Sabah, Sarawak, Loa, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and Thailand.

In each journey I do lots of mistakes, and I learn from my mistakes. I learned to find the right destination, to booking the tickets and hotels, to carry my cash and even to pack a bag. Lots and lots of research are done before I step of my house, just to proof to my father that I will come back home safe. Yet at times, things are beyond my control.

In my resent trip to Thailand, despite being one of the easiest places in South East Asia to travel, I learned how to be a real bag packer. I was so unprepared and didn’t have my lonely planet as guideline.

When I first arrived in Chang Mai, the place I have booked online which should assure me a place for one day was full. I didn’t have anywhere else to go. Luckily, the guesthouse owner was awesome and manages to find me a room. Then there was an incident in Ayutthaya where I went to the place based on lonely planet and it was fully booked. In place where people hardly spoke English, without a map or clue about the city, I searched for the guesthouse just by its name. Then, there was the Koa Phagan, where I knew nothing about the place. All I said to the driver was, “I want some where quiet” and she pointed a faraway place called Had Yao. She dropped me in the middle of no way and said, “Here is Had Yao”. With my bagpack I walked and searched and somehow manage to find a shack for 300 bhat when everything else was 500 baht.

As for transport, Thailand is the best. It all organized and no thinking at all. One can move any corner of the land without sweat. In Thailand, there is something called joint ticket. The tickets will consist of bus ride or train ride, ferry ride and minivan to all destinations including airport. For example, if I am in Ko Phagan, I can go to Ko Tao, Ko Samui, Surat Thani, Champoon, Bangkok, Krabi, Phuket, Ko Lanta and even to Had Yai. All this is done without going to Bangkok. But sometimes even the easiest transport like train can be disaster as the signboards are all not in English. So it’s better to stick to busses.

Nevertheless, many times I just needed up on bike taxi. Hop on and it will take you to any corner of the town on minimum charges. My first bike taxi encounter was in Vietnam. I not only jump on a bike with my huge bag pack clinging on my back but also went on a 10 hour journey ride. Then there was Indonesia, where I went bag packing on bike. Even the steep, 45 degree Mt Penanjakan was done on bike.

But when everything fails, I always have my feet to depend on. On the 10th April 2010, I was supposed to head to Ko Samui form Kanchanaburi but stopping first at Bangkok. Unfortunately, that’s the day the red shirt army decided to capture the bridge to Koa San road, where my bus to ko Samui was. The mini van driver, stopped at the middle of the riot as said the journey ends there. All but me was heading to Ko Samui and there was no address of the bus stop where I should go. After arguing so long with the minivan driver and with the help of another guy, I manage to walk across the bridge and find the guesthouse that operates the bus service. I after 17 hours later I arrived in Ko Samui.

There also times when the traveling pattern need changes at the last minutes. When I could not depart to Yangoon because I didn’t have a visa, I didn’t even give my brains to think and be sorry for my stupidity. I just went with the flow. I headed straight to town and took the train to Kanchanaburi and from there continued my journey to Ko Samui and Ko Phagan, and would have headed to Ko Tao, Krabi and Ko Lanta if not for the red shirt protest.

As for food, being vegetarian, I never had any problem at all. Its more difficult to travel in my own country. If I actually starve or skip a meal it’s not because there are no food, but because the food is expensive. A place where many whites travels, you can always find one page of the menu full of vegetarian dishes even if it’s not vegetarian shop. But one must always keep in mind that, tell them NO EGG.

As for me I am still learning the art of bag packing. One of the first thing I need to learn is pack less and shop less. Above all dont plan anything.

So, if you still ask me if bag packing is as easy as carrying a bag pack, I can only give the ‘whateva’ look. Go ahead a try, you will experience things beyond words can say. The ultimate happiness I can get after god ofcourse.

The Arrival of 2010

2009-12-28T19:57:00.000-08:00

The year 2009 was superb. I went through a process of self discovery, living my life to the fullest. I have experiencing things that I have only dream off over the years. It was a beautiful journey.

Some of the things that I am proud to achieve in 2009 are as listed below:

1. straighten my teeth and today I smiled with of resistance;

2. straighten and cut my hair short after postponing for some time;

3. Loose weight;

4. went solo backpacking to Vietnam and Bali;

5. went solo backpacking from Yogjarkarta to Lombok;

6. climbed Mt Agung, Batur and reached the rim of Rinjani;

Agung

Rinjani

Batur

7. went for rock climbing

8. went for kayaking and white river rafting

9. went to Sabah again and visited lower Kinabatangan river

10. learn to LET GO and stop having expectation.

Despite the list above, the best part of 2009, was to see my dear friend getting married. It completed the whole 2009 package. It was truly an amazing feeling. I am not proud to admit but, I was in tears to see her walking down the isle comparing to others (which best no mentioned).

Of course the journey of self discovery was never smooth. There are always ups and downs with lots of tears and laughters. But nevertheless it’s an experience that changed me in many ways, many ways that I am proud off.

By the end of 2009, I will now walk further up to the next level of what Walsch calls it 'creating life". Meaning to be what I want to be by determining BY MYSELF! I am going to create my own path, my own destiny for another year ahead.

It’s never going to be easy task, as we always have great barriers, especially from people surrounding us who claims on our decision to be selfish. Nevertheless, I am putting their opinion aside as its not their thought that going to create my path.

I have not asked anything to HIM yet, but I saw the sign yesterday. Its presence yesterday says that HE will be with me till the end. Thats more then enough to start my journey with confidence.

So for starters, here is what I scheduled for a year ahead:

1. Backpacking to sabah again to climb KK!

2. learn diving.

3. learn extra language (preferred Hindi or Thai).

4. backpacking to Chang Mai (northern Thailand) and Myanmar.

5. go to either Bali or Laos again.

6. loose weight.

7. buy furniture for house.

8.buy zoom camera.

9. go to ashram in india and learn to meditate.

10. celebrate my tenth year of vegetarian!

11. stop being judgmental and etc.

Note: Walsch, Neale Donald- is the author to conversations with god

Life's Lesson!

2009-09-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine forwarded me with 45 life's lesson written by 90 years old Regina Brett which, I thought of sharing with all, especially with people who blames god and faith for almost everthing.

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you, really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone, everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come.
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift

ps: i love dthe higlighted on most

Battle with Kuala Kubu Baru River- Part I & II

2009-08-03T00:22:00.000-07:00

KKB Part I
27 Jun 2009

I confess that I love out door activity, but white water rafting was never in my do list. Probably because it requires more then 4 person and high possibilities that I can never get enough people to sit with me on the raft. So when the opportunity strikes, and akka asked (actually me asking her thanks to Ganesha), I said yes.

There was about 30 of us from Mani's gang plus another couple of people form different group. All together we had 60 people, 10 raft.

Since we wont be coming back to the same place, the driver was requested to park their car at the ending point and us the passenger went free floating. Uuhoo.

Upon the arrival of the driver, we were separated into groups of 6, all, equiped with safely instrument like red ants and was then was preached on the rules and regulation of rafting before sending us on the raft.

All raft came with a driver and us we had Ruku. Together with 2 boys and 4 girls, we conquered the KKB River once and for all. Wohoo..the best battle ever!

walking our way to free float while waiting for the drivers

somewhere in the middle of the raft;Let the fight begin..who is greater then who?

My team

The first battle

The second

Rest

The Third

The forth

Part II
27 Jully 2009

Not enough with conquering KKB river the first time, i went of the battle again for the second time with different battalion. this time, we were in the whole different scenario. The presence of the Young Royal Selongor prince and the high river flow from the damn.

Even though the second time was not much hassle as moving to right left up and down, I had a whole lot of fun. First with my driver Rizal, who was so funny; second with my buddies on the raft that was creaming all the way; third with high level and me diving with the current and last but not least getting stuck at river bank all covered with under trees and branches and whole lot of spider and bugs falling on the raft.

Nevertheless, there was one small disappointment, my boat never capsize nor did I fall on my own or even when Rizal tried his level best to do so!

Did you realize someone went missing on the raft? Wonder how?

*
*

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*

*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*

Because of she went flying off the raft. The best picture taken!

Discovering and Conquering Saga Hill

2009-06-21T21:05:00.001-07:00

Every time I pass by the Ampang, I would be wondering and asking my sis, how come with so much greenery, there arent any place to hike except for Klang gates. There must be some mountain hidden behind those housing ground which we are not aware of it?

True enough a week ago, I finally discovered there was indeed a hiking ground in the inner part of Ampang and yesterday I conquered it along with Suet and 2 other friends who all trainning for 10km marathon.

The trek is about 2 hours climb and has many entrances and exit which even leads to Cupecs. The track to me was actually easy, similar to KK trek where the places to climb and walk are nicely formed. Nevertheless, I was panting like crazy and drank half of 100 plus before reaching to hill top.

The most difficult part of climbing Saga Hill was for the fact that it was extremely steep and one get dizzy by just looking up. Some even to the extend of vomiting. So the best way to climb is by just looking at the ground. All one need is good stamina.

The hill top is surprisingly flat. Hence, the residence/hikers has decided to make it into exercise/resting ground as how its been done in Penang's Bukit Jambul. There are swing and hammock everywhere but no food stall selling Ice Lemon Tea. Sigh!

We waited for couple of minute and headed down. There are many option to get down and some even lead to Bukit Apek and Cupecs. Suet and I took an alternate route while the other two girls went down the same way up.

Getting down was even easier then I predicted. Me always being careful while coming down, was shocked that this time I was practically running my was out. The hike was really good. The hill is really cool and isolated, yet one would be surprised that its filled up with resident from Taman Saga. Highly recommended for training.

A peEk inTo mY HapPy SaNtuary

2009-06-19T00:15:00.000-07:00

A year and half ago my so call happy sanctuary was a real bore. Not only that, it had leakages every where that my CC used to say that I would be needing sampan to get in. Nevertheless, I refused to move out as its location was good, far away from the main entrance and bosses room. Ashamed of my self, I decided to decorate my room, little by little with stuffs from home. It was presentable and I was happy. Along came this stupid Japanese policy of 5s initiated by Treasury and it was determined that we didn’t live up to the 5s standard. The sad part was, my department got the lowest. So my HOD instructed all to get involve in keeping our territory clean, organize and label in line with the 5s or else we would be in hot soup!

So for the past one month, little by little I cleaned, I removed clusters, organized, labeled and finally redecorated my room as admin finally decided to get someone to solve my leakages problem. The result is my little happy sanctuary which gave me 70% score.

My sofa set corner

Beautiful posters on the wall

My set tea deco

My working corner ..oh yeah that's a window!

My desk with colourful backdrop..oh yeah flat screen

My happy daisy screen saver with little sunshine on the left and colourful backdrop

My happy sunshine

My colourful bulletin board

My happy dancing daisy on my colourful table cloth ...

My happy cat calender which always in the wrong date ...

My neatly stacked and labeled files and books

My neatly stacked stationery
Neat huh! Not like me at all :)

My cute sharpener

and at last

My self made Bible for now..all information are gathered in there :)

So why is this place special?

1. Because many of the things are ancient and from home and things I bought from holidays

2. Its colourful and colours makes people happy

3. A whole lots of smile daisy, one of my very favorite flowers.

4. Less noise, a whole lot of space to breathe and sunshine through the window.

Note:

CC- Chief Clerk

HOD-Head of Department

5s-Japanese policy to keep the place organised

Sampan- little boat used in the villages

Who's the Culprit?

2009-04-23T02:29:00.001-07:00

Just like any other typical 'office employee", I have lots and lots of pencils all neatly stacked in a little mug at the corner of my table. To me drafts are waste of time. I guess, I am too lazy to write and rewrite hence totally believing in typing straight into the PC. Nevertheless, my pencil are always handy while I am answering phone calls, looking into facts and figures and scribbling a little something!!!!

At times, it comes handy when its need to write down what my boss's instruction. And many times, when my boss calls me to her room, despite having a whole lot of pencil neatly kept in my mug, I always ended up picking one particular pencil and its so embarrassing to even admit that the pencil belongs to me. Wondering how a piece of pencil can be absolute embarrassment? Here how it is.

Can you spot the edge of The Pencil?

If you look closer this is what you get? Not close enough?

Nah, up close and personal?

Don't you think its embarrassing for an officer writing her minutes in this pencil?

This is how The Pencil looks while I am scribbling something.

It seems like a curse that I have to always pick this particular pencil while I am with my boss.

I always wonder who would have bit The Pencil such way?

One fine day, decided to bring The Pencil back home for photo session and showed it to ma.

Ta da, one look at it and she named the culprit?

So who do you think is the culprit?

*
*

*
Yah man ...look at that pity full face. That's how he looks when he is guilty. Bad bad rusty!!!! He he he he

Lao PDR- City of Shakes, Sandwishes, Silk, Silver, Shopping and Saint

2009-04-02T01:24:00.000-07:00

The year 2008 was the year I finally decided to be an independent traveller. Hence, my semi solo backpacking conquest first started with Sabah and then followed by Lao. It was the most amazing experience I ever had.

On 25 October 2008, my journey to Lao begain at Vientiane with my dear friend Suet Mun. Many opposed on me venturing to this beautiful land, claiming it to be unsafe, dangerous and not a place to go. But it didnt bother me or Suet much.

However, merely a week in Lao totally changed my perspective on this country. To me its perfectly wonderfully safe place to travel and a must visit place by all. What a person need is enough dollars in their pocket, smile and bargaining power.

In Lao, the word "PDR" stand for "please don't rush". True enough once you step into this beautiful paradise, you feel as though you have walked back to the past. The time just stops and you stop thinking even with out their beer Lao. Just simple coffee/shakes with various type of baguette and beautiful scenery is just sufficient.

To me this is how I see Lao. My journey from Vientiane -Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang -Vientiane

The people:

Cafe, Restaurants and Local stalls:

Food:

Mode of transportation in Lao:

1. Long Distance Buses 2. Their famous tuk tuk

3. Various types of boat...
4. Combination of both tuk tuk and boat

5. Various types of Bikes

6. Self made 3 and two wheels

7. And my favorite of all..no wheel

Guesthouse

Vientiane

Vang Vieng
room at one corner

toilet on the opposite

Luang Prabang :

luxury

Real budgeted

Shopping:

Market:

Temples and monks:

Temples:

Land of Doggies:

A packet of flour, 21 eggs and a Birthday Boy

2009-03-30T01:35:00.000-07:00

Celebrating 21 st Birthday the right way:

1. A perfect plan to bash birthday boy

kidnap and get hold of boy while waiting for troupe to arrive

arrival of the troupe

Arrival of the egg and flour

rituals begins with touch of flour

off goes the shirt and....

the first egg to officiate the rituals of turning boy to man...

then goes the flour

little blessing from women

flour sprinkling process...

.
deng deng deng ...moment later

you get a perfect cake..

ops sorry, you got it all wrong silly

its super flour boy

nope...guess again

you get birthday boy covered with flour and egg

2. Good Food

perfectly cooked rice

great combination of kurma curry and

spicy vegetarian crab curry...

pickled vegetable..

mix vegetable

yummilicious mock mutton and

real mutton

perfectly cooked mock chicken

and real chicken

yummilicious prawns and
perfectly cooked crab

not forgetting yummilicious desserts..

3. Great Company

oh yah, you got it right, she took the contract to cut the cakes

4. Best Gift

The Last Lecture

2009-03-23T01:32:00.000-07:00

Many would have heard about the Last Lecture. For those who haven't, please take an attempt to at least read it or else you have just wasted time looking for answers in space.

To me, it was just by accident that I got the opportunity to view the Last Lecture through Oprah's show. A year later, on my 30th birthday, I was given this book as Birthday present by a friend. And it turn out to be the best birthday present ever.

Even though I loved the Last Lecture, but my expectation on the book was just not high. Its well known fact that what you view will never be as nice as what's in book and vise verse. But after reading it, I loved it even more then what Randy said in his lecture.

Many said reading "PS: I Love You" brought tears at the end, but reading Randy Pauch's words brought tears on almost end of every chapter.Total truth and honesty from an ordinary human being.

I quote unquote Randy's words "If you offer wisdom from third party it seems less arrogant and more acceptable." Here are some of his word of wisdom and thoughts I loved most and would like to share with others:

1. Engineering isn’t about perfect solution; it’s about doing the best you can with limited resources.

2. If you can find opening; you can probably find a way to float through it.

3. When you are screwing up and nobody says anything to you anymore that means they have given up on you.

4. Automobiles are there to get you from point A to point B. They are utilitarian devices, not expressions of social status.

5. When you are putting people on the moon, you’re inspiring all of us to achieve the maximum of human potential, which is how our greatest problems will eventually be solved. When you use money to fight poverty too many people go through life complaining about their problems. I’ve always believed that if you took one-tenth the energy put into complaining and applied it to solving the problem; you’d be surprised by how well things can work out.

6. Experience is what you get when you didn’t get what you wanted.

7. Failure is not just acceptable, it’s often essential.

8. The person who failed often knows how to avoid future failures.

9. Showing gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful things human can do for each other.

10. Now that I’m an adult, you’ll never catch me with less than $200 in my wallet. I want to be prepared in case I need it. Sure I could lose my wallet or it could be stolen. But for a guy making a reasonable living, $200 is an amount worth risking. By contrast, not having cash on hand when you need it is potentially a much bigger problem.

11. When you go into the wilderness, the only thing you can count on is what you take with you.

12. You are only good as your word and there' s no better way to say it.

13. People lie for so many reasons, often because it seems like a way to get what they want with less effort but like many short term strategies, its ineffective long term. You run into people again later, and they remember you lied to them. And they tell lots of other people about it. That’s what amazes me about lying. Most people who have told a lie think they got away with it..when in fact, they didn’t.

14. Krishamurthi : “tell you friend that in his death, a part of you dies and goes with him. Wherever he goes, you also go. He will not be alone”

15. I want them to find their own path to fulfillment. And given that I won’t be there, I want to make this clear: kids, don’t try to figure out what I wanted you to become. I want you to become what you want to become.

16. It’s not about how to achieve your dreams. Its about how to lead your life. If you lead life the right way, the karma will take care of itself. The dreams will come to you.

Randy and his kids

Note: yellow one's are my favorite

Walking around Kuching In Memories

2009-03-22T02:55:00.000-07:00

Unlike my previous back packing trip to Sarawak where my sister and I have started our journey from Anglican Guest House, this time around I started from the City Centre where Kuching Hilton was located. Despite being two years, the city never change. Its always bustling with people, great food and easy to move around. It felt like i was just there yesterday. The movement of my hotel from Anglican Guest House to Hilton, made it it much more easier to move around.

So a day in Kuching town went this way (follow the map):

Take Diversion: Right Of Hilton Kuching

(Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman)

On the right hand side of the Hilton , walking towards Holiday Inn still in Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, is where this beautiful cat statue is located.

On the opposite of the Cat Statue is the famous Top Spot Food Court: Food Court on top of parking roof top..yah coo! And apparently cheap and delicious

Walk further up to Jalan Abbel is where the famous vegetarian shop, "The Servant " is located. It served amazing food.

Take Diversion: Turn Right

Famous statue at Jalan Padungan Road

When you walk further up on the next lane towards Jalan Ban Hock, you can see a Hindu temple. Every time I go in the temple will be closed. ..

Take Diversion: Left of Hilton (Main Bazaar)

The view of the street towards Main Bazaar. The little house on the hill top was where my previous guesthouse was back in 2006

The Chinese Museum on the left by the waterfront.

The view of the waterfront form Hilton.

Beautiful scenic river

The sampan (boat) by the waterfront. The fastest mode of transport to get to the other side.

Apparently its the cheap mode of advertisement....look, you can see "hotlink" on the roof top!!

Across Waterfront:

Across waterfront, first you see this magnificent new mosque on construction. It was not there in 2006. I am not sure why all structures now a days looks like some building in Putrajaya !!!It looks like MOF building only with dome!!!

Further up across, is where the Astana is as well as the Fort Margherita is.

The old observation tower at Kuching Waterfront..

Take Diversion: Cross the Road (Right)

Rows of shops selling crafts and souvenir stuff at main bazaar. Also locals selling local cakes called kek lapis (layer cake). But what i like most about the picture is the 3 stooges at the back wearing colourful mask and was singing along main Bazar. Amazing things happen in Kuching.

3 little stooges..so cute..

(Left)

Across the road from the Observation Tower is the Old Court House, now known as the Tourist Information Centre.

Attached and behind the Tourist Information Centre is the Little Lebanon Cafe.

Take Diversion: Cross the road

Opposite the old court, is the Indian street. Though you can find Indian selling spices and lentils, the main shops are conquered by garments.

In between those shops, there lies the old Indian Muslim Mosque.

Take Diversion : (i) Turn Behind of Main Bazaar

Walk further up and the second lane of Main Bazaar is the China town at Carpenter Street . Picture above is the entrance to China Town.

Road along Carpenter Street is the best place to see old building and amazing kopitiam. This particular one serves the best kolok me...

An old Chinese Temple near China Town. There was some celebration going on and it had 6 lion wiggling their butt.

Take Diversion : (II) Go Straight

(Barrack road)

Kuching Post Office Building

Pavilion Kuching:Sarawak Textile Museum

Sarawak Craft School

Take Diversion: Opposite Barrack Road /Behind China Street

Anglican Cathedral (Bishop house)

Diocesan Guest House (My old guesthouse back in 2006)

From Barrack Road

Sarawak Museum

Reservoir Park

Statues at Aquarium, Reservoir Park

My journey ends at Roman Catholic Cathedral church

The eagle has landed!

2009-03-20T03:12:00.000-07:00

Whats surprise me most about this whole trip was for the fact that Kuching City has

honoured President Obama before he even visited Malaysia.

Surprised??

Me too!!!

You don't believe me?

Scroll down...

Tada..."Barrack" Cool huh!

Food in Sarawak

2009-03-19T03:04:00.000-07:00

Where ever I go I try my level best to eat what the local does even though I am vegetarian. This time around, instead of usual Inidan food, i hunted for Chinese vegetarian shop. Despite having a hard time locationg the shop and being expensive dinner for 1, I loved my food.

"The servant", located in Jalan Abbel, served something amazing:

The perfect ice lemon tea

My soft rice with vege and mock meat

"Muraga keerai" or better known as Changkuk Manis was suppuerbly cooked.

Sweet Sour Spicey Chicken was just simply delicious

You get What You Pay For!

2009-03-18T02:36:00.000-07:00

There is famous cliché "You get what you pay for". Going backpacking for the past 5 years using Low Cost Carrier and living in guesthouses, I came to realization that as long you have roof over the head, stock of musli/icelemon tea (refer here for essential packing goods backpacking), 3 t-shirt, enough cash and have return tickets, you will be fine. To date, I never complained.

But at times traveling in style is nice and I just happen to get that opportunity by attending MOF Inc’s company’s Annual General Meeting.

Clothes:

Since it was official matter, instead of my worn out cargo pants, baby T and slippers, I actually decided to be presentable by wearing jean and blouse. However, I just can take away the habit of caring backpack rather then suits.

Transports:

Then there was the Malaysian Airline. Being government servant, it’s mandatory to use our national carrier. Flying with MAS is always superb even if it’s just economy class. No complains about that. The crew was polite; the space was amazing and the food wonderful. I was just lucky, despite not telling them that I was vegetarian, they just happen has something for me to eat. Here was what I ate:

Ok. I know what you are thing. Uppuma and vadai with dhal, bread and drinks was sufficient. But yogurt drink, Ferrero Rocher and Baskins was just bizarre. Sometimes I wonder with all that money spend on food and ticketing and whole lots of staff, I am surprise that MAS can keep up with Airasia and declare profit. Today, I am proud MAS is part of my organization and has live up to his moto “we serve first class service.” It was indeed!

Accommodation:

It was then followed by Hilton. Since, most directors were Tan Sri and Dato’s and CEO of the company, I just happen to get a place to stay in Hilton just like them. Probably not the luxury suits, but as long as it says Hilton it was good, clean and superb. It always worth what you pay for.

Food:

What I miss most was the dinner at the stake house. Being vegetarian, I opt to miss that but breakfast was simply superb.

So the moral of the story is “At times, it’s nice to travel in style” You get what you pay for!

Once in a life time

2009-03-17T07:13:00.000-07:00

Unlike many girls I know, I never had dream guy, dream wedding, or dream family. But I knew someday, I would put my creativeness, passion and hard work constructing something, someday for someone. And it just happened through my sister’s wedding of the year.

Even though it took me weeks to do planning, purchasing and preparing decoration for engagement, yet it only took me couple of days to visualize and creating something out of nothing. Things just popped out of my brains. Reading all the decoration books and watching tv programs as well as surfing from nets was just wortlwhile and made things less complicating.

After weeks of preparation, arguments and frustration, I finished my bits and pieces of the decoration with no interference of others. I guess, sometimes, something’s just better done alone.

The big day finally arrived, and it was time to reassemble all the bits and pieces together into something that I have been visualizing. Nevertheless when several troupe of army decided to take the lead on their own, it just became to complicating and I decided to back off. So for anyone that came for the engagement or by looking at these pictures here thought the decoration was remarkable, all applaud should be given to my sisters BFF and my uncles, aunts and cousins that has worked hard putting it together. Here was the result. Once in a lifetime project:

At the end, it wasn’t exactly what I have pictured but close enough to satisfy all. But was I satisfied? Was all the hassle worthwhile? Will I do it ever again? As of now, the answer is a big NO! That was probably the first and the last. I wanted to do more but circumstances prevails me. I guess perfectionist never get satisfied.

Note:

Pictures by SL, Kutty and Myself

How To Celebrate 53rd Birthday?

2009-01-04T18:20:00.000-08:00

Agenda:
Date: 3 January 2009
Time: 8.00 pm
Venue: Putra Heights
Birthday Baby: Segar

1. Yummylicious food

The yummy rojak

KFC

Best Vege Mee hoon

2. Stylish Chef

Hmm..when its going to cook..1 Mississippi, 2 Mississippi

Cool way to cook, smoke free, charcoal free, cancer free...

3. Surprise Guest

4. Surprise Pressie

5. Enjoy & Live the Moment!

6. Enjoy the food

7. Attack with Food and Utensils

Birthday boy under attack..Nah! Take it..

Vege girl under attack..want some more?

oh oh...me under attack by bawang the vampire slayer...

Shall i poke or not?

Attack..i hold, you feed!!!!

8. Take Lots of Family Picture

hmm..how long more must i wait...hmm

9. Go crazy with camera

10. Get Drunk and High with Soft Drink and Kuaci

neets 3 cups of sarsi yet steady, bhunsi one and half a sleep

Inner Voice in Action!

2008-11-24T01:07:00.000-08:00

Being attached to MOF Inc Division which handled tons of privatizing project, almost everyone form my department will attend meeting at Economic Planing Unit (EPU) almost everyday, morning and afternoon, 5 times a week. I just had one on Tuesday (18.11.08) and was requested by my boss to attend another meeting the following day, which at that point I didn’t realize it was located at Lembaga Lebuhraya(LLM) and not EPU.

As usual, I took everything so light and cool and went on with my daily routine. Since, the meeting was only schedule at 2.30 p.m and it only takes me only 10 minutes to get there, I took my nap. Anyway, I usually dont sleep only shut my eyes to rest. Hence, never once set an alarm clock. But I will make sure I wake up every 5-10 minutes.

Deng..deng deng, luck was not on my side today, and I slept through and only woke up at 2 pm. Panicked, I quickly rushed to grab my bag to see the venue of the meeting. Deng, deng, deng, deng, instead of the usual Blob B, there was suddenly Bilik Mesyuarat Bunga Raya? I got shock looking at unfamiliar room so looked at the second line to see Lembaga Lebuhraya, and the third line which states, Kajang-Serdang Highway!

I got more panicked; so panicked my brain froze and stops functioning. The only words that went through my head over and over for the first five minutes is “OH MY GOD!” I could do nothing and started fidgeting with the papers on the desk.

Somehow, the evil part of me was in action and it gave me various way to lie (which I really don’t know how in first place?). Among the most deprived option that I came up with were:

1. Didn’t know the meeting was in LLM and went to Ministy of Work at KL;
2. Didn't know the meeting was at LLM so went to EPU and was late;
3. I didn’t know the road, got lost and headed back home;
4. Tell sick and go home;
5. Tell car spoiled and go home;or
6. Just go home and get input from EPU to inform her next morning.

As I said, all option was just awful and was not satisfactory to miss out one of the most important meeting for the most important project. Luckily, there was this voice within me kept on saying, “what ever it is just leave the office, now!” I did exactly so.

It was then already 215, and I was driving out of the building. The voice within me spoke again, “Why not take the other road! May be you might just pass by Lembaga Lebuh Raya on the way and just get in. No harm trying.” So instead of the usual way back home, I took the long way to get to the highway.

I got lost twice and finally when I reached the highway, I reached a message from my assistant Sheema stating that, my boss will not be attending meeting with Secretary General and will join me in a while!”

Damn! I curse my self over and over. Why does when disaster strikes, it always doesn’t stop at one! So now by hook or crook, no matter how late it is I must attend the meeting. So I drove, by passing the hotels, then came MARDI and then instead of LLM there was Hospital Serdang? Yah, that where I realized i took the wrong road. I have seen the LLM building somewhere but not sure exactly where. So I just simply drove forward till I saw the sign Kajang and my inner voice spoke once again, ‘go further up, you might be lucky”. So I did exactly that and besides, if I do miss LLM, I can always head back home using that way!

Deng, deng, deng, deng, just after less then 3 minutes drive; I saw big sign board saying LLM u turn! At that movement the green sign board felt like some flashy neon light sign board (like on tv) that literary say, “you are here!” Yet, I managed to miss the u turn and two other turning before reaching the opposite site of the road where the LLM situated.

I was glad to finally be there even though I was very late. I quickly got down but not knowing which of the 3 block was the Bunga Raya Meeting Room situated. Luckily there was there two staffs that heading to the same place and offered to send me right to the door step. I peeped inside to see almost everyone was there. So I took deep breath, opened the door and thanked lord for that inner voice that had lead me to the meeting room as I saw my boss sitting in front of me giving me her big smile.

‘Are you from Bank ?’ the chairman asked. “No she is with me”, my boss answered. I smiled and took my seat and thank god over and over for the next 2 and ½ hours till the meeting ended.

Sigh! The whole incident was like cartoon! It was after a longtime time did I saw my self smiling and smiling and smiling till I drive back home. What a bizarre incident! Never in my life I imagined I would have both the devil and angel talking like on TV.

Anyhow, I am glad god is there within me! I am also glad that I read Elizabeth Gilbert book – ‘eats pray love’ to realize that.

Notes:

Bilik Msyuarat -meeting room
Bunga raya- hibiscus flower
Lembaga Lebuh Raya – Highway Authority
MARDI- Malaysian Research and Development Institute

Is the bottle half empty or full?

2008-11-10T23:58:00.000-08:00

The law of attraction says that when we think positive, the universal attracts positive thoughts. But in my case after a year long of having good time, just as I predicted I had a rough bad one year. Nothing good attracted to my direction. (refer my previous entry on PUre luCK! )

Just as I mentioned in the “Interview with the Novice”, god always answers one’s prayers through the medium one will unlikely to think off. In my case, he indeed did. But that was not enough. I wanted more. I wanted assurance that my actions and thoughts were indeed right in his eyes. But up till today, I had absolute no sign form him except for those soft whispers in my ears.

So I waited and waited and waited, there was absolute nothing. Not a single sound of temple bell, birds chirping, rainbows or dreams as i had before (refer mt previous entry on Mysterious Rainbow ). And then today, as I was driving to work, I was questioning him again both in sorrow and anger, suddenly I heard a faint whispers at my ear, “Footprint”. I was stunt for a moment but then suddenly the verse of footprint came running to my head.

“You promised me Lord,that if I followed you, you would walk with me always. But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life there has only been one set of footprints in the sand. Why, when I needed you most, have you not been there for me?

The Lord replied, the years when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child, is when I carried you”

I smiled. My prayers were finally answered. Was it for real, I questioned myself? And just as my car was moving, turning at the corner of the UNITEN road, the bell of the temple below that had been silent for a year long suddenly rang, not once but twice. I then smiled for the second time.

The sign didn’t stop there. As I logged on to my face book, the first thing I see is a cute smiley and invitation to join the “become fan of smiley”.

Moment later I read the exact word that I shouldn’t be reading but needing to be heard “ some people deserve to be hated and not to be regretted... so no regrets and stay happy always..”. And that was my official fourth smile for the day!

I guess, life is full of mystery. When you least expect something in life, it comes to you in the form of hope. One has to just wait and listen. The law of attraction is amazing!

The interview with the Novice

2008-11-06T23:40:00.000-08:00

Both Suet and I was curious with the life style of the monks and the novices in Lao. Thus, we wanted to get hold of them to get answers. Luckily our prayers was answered through a friend we meet, Rei who some how she had connection with a monk from the temple opposite our guest house just by giving out the alms. The closer they were, the more curious we were.

Unfortunately, she had booked her bus ticket to QudoXai and left the next day. So we went with Plan B, get hold of him in his place. So we practically walked in and out the temple 7 times but failed. Even went to monk school to get hold of novices but they were too shy or spoke very little English. So with no more option left, we went for Plan C, find someone from the temple and get some straight answers.

Lucky us, we found one, Poh chai. However, he was so shy, it took him practically 30-40 minutes to approach us, after walking up and down and pretending to read ahem French book which we thought was bible in the first place.

He was a sweet innocent novice that new a lot but did not know how to convey to us. Getting bored with his smile, we were finally glad when our friend Oley approached us. A boy of 18, from Vientiane with the hope of becoming a monk.

I can barely remember the sequence of the question we had approached him, but the answers were truly from him. I have rearranged according to little topic to make it more understandable.

Monks, Novices, Monastery and Buddhism

Shuba and Suet: What is Novice? What’s the difference between Novice and Monk.

Oley: Novice is the beginner.

Shuba and Suet : So at what age you become novice and what age you become monk?

Oley: People become novice at age of 12 and monk only after 18.

Shuba: Did you come here by your self or your parents sent you here?

Oley: When I was 12, I choose, as I know.

Shuba and Suet: How can you decide at young age? When I was 12, I don’t know anything. When can you not be monk? Can you leave anytime?

Oley: Yes we can leave anytime..

Shuba: Does all novices become a monk? Do you want to become monk?

Oley: He thought for a while may be..a while later.. I will leave at the age of 40 and get married.

Suet : 40, no body wants you then as you got no money. Better leave now when you are young.

Oley: No I am happy here. I don’t like money.

Shuba: I don’t like money too. Money doesn’t give you happiness.

Oley: Yes money is not happy. So what makes you happy?

Shuba: God makes me happy.

Oley: You pray for statute? Have you seen god.
Shuba: No I have not seen god

Oley: So how you know there is god when you never seen one.

Shuba: Its all about believe. I believe in god. Don’t you believe in god?

Oley: No I believe in my self. Only my self can give me happiness.

Shuba: I was stunt and enquired further more. So you are a novice and you learn Buddhism but you don’t believe Buddha as god. So what are you doing here?

Oley: Buddha is not my god. He is just teacher.

Shuba: I am surprise that you said that. Its doest make sense at all. You a novice but don’t believe in god.

Oley: I believe in my self, but i follow Buddha’s way.

Shuba: I believe in god. When I am sad, I go to him and cry and I will get my answers.

Oley: He can’t talk to you how you get answers?

Shuba: He talks through other people. I always get my answer.

Oley: Why you sad? Because your boy friend.

Shuba: Not boy friend. I am single or I won’t be traveling alone with her. Many things. Sometimes work, things etc,

Oley: Do you travel many place.

Shuba: Not many place. I have traveled in Malaysia and Cambodia. Now here and planning to go to Vietnam next. Do you like to travel? Where would you go?

Oley: India. I want to see the holly river and bathe.

Shuba: India, I am surprised. You are in monastery, but don’t believe Buddha as god and now you want to bathe in Ganges river. I can not understand.

Oley: You tell the same thing. Have you been there? Don’t you want to go there? Where would you like to go?

Shuba: No I have no money. My dream places it to go Italy and then Tibet/Nepal to see Dalai Lama.

Suet: I want to go India to learn dance.

Oley: Why you want to see Dalai lama.

Shuba: Because he is intelligent and he has answer to many things.

Oley: How you know he is intelligent.

Shuba: I believe he is intelligent. He knows many thing and talks different language. Don’t you want to meet him?

Oley: He nodded.

Suet : so you only have one cloth. If wash what you wear?

Oley: He blushed and giggled with his friend but refuse to answer.

Suet : So what you wear? Like nun don’t wear bra so you wear what inside?

Shuba: Please Suet stop being a pervert. Poor boy!

Oley: I am not boy. I am man.

Suet: So what you wear inside, underwear?

Oley: He blushed and again and said something to his friend. We don’t wear anything…ha ha ha ha

Suet: Can monk or novices touch women. If I touch you, will I go to hell?

Oley: No we can’t touch women. He blushed and giggled with his friend.

Suet : So if I accidentally touch you , do you come back and pray asking forgiveness..

Oley: No, if accidentally touch its ok..

Suet : So if I touch him (another novice) now, its ok…I don’t go to hell..

Oley: No accidentally is ok. No need ..you can touch me…ha ha ha ha …. you like to teased me…. Ha ha ha

Oley: Where is you friend?

Shuba: Which friend ( I asked, pretending not to know?)

Oley: Japanese friend?

Shuba: I thought she was your friend. Aren’t you supposed to know?

Oley: No body likes me. You are my friend.. He said and giggled

Another novice: But somebody likes a novice. He said and giggled. And we all giggled.

Shuba and Suet: Yes, likes one novice. We know. We all giggled.

Suet : So, what do you have in your room? Do you all share one room.

Oley: No, we have many rooms. We have fan and bed.

Shuba and Suet: Do you have television?

Oley: No we don’t have.

Suet : Don’t you get bored, just sitting doing nothing. Don’t you want to see the world, drink Lao beer and be friend with people

Oley: No I am happy with my life. I don’t feel bored.

Suet: i drink, i smoke do i go to hell or heaven?

Oley: He smiled, hell...

Suet: So people of Lao drink beer and smoke, they go hell too?

Oley: Noo...he smiled..

Food and Vegetarianism

Shuba: Why does Buddhist specially the monks eat meat when the Buddha says to sins to make others suffer and kill animal. So by consuming meat, does it mean that the monks and novices go to hell?

Oley: No, the monks and novices does not sin as they only consume food prepared by the people. Hence, monks does not cook only eat alms.

Shuba and Suet : So does that mean that people who kill chicken goes to hell and will have chicken head in their judgment day? And by making the people cook, does that mean its double sins for monks and novices and they goes to hell?

Oley: No, they will not have chicken head nor the monks goes to hell as they will say prayers before scarifies!

Shuba and Suet: Surprised and stunts such things exits!!

Suet : Since I drink and smoke do I go to hell?

Oley: Yes, he said with smile.

Suet ; Does that mean people of Lao will go to hell too?

Oley: He just smiled! And his usual answer May be!

Shuba: So I can give anything during the alms session besides sticky rice and fruits!

Oley: He nodded

Shuba: So if I give baguette, its nothing wrong?

Oley: Yes, you can. Sometimes, when I have money I will go to bakery.

Alms session!

Shuba: I heard that the government forced you to get up every morning to get alms from people.

Oley: No, the government did not force us. It’s our routine. We do that everyday.

Shuba: Are you happy doing that. I heard a saying form Cambodia, “Happy Monk” but I don’t see any here. You all look sad and hardly smile when I smile.

Oley: No we are happy doing that. We are just shy monks and novice. And he blushed along with his another novice that came to eaves drop our conversation.

Shuba: Do you eat only sticky rice and food given during that session. As I see people bring Tiffin to the monastery.

Oley: Yah, the sticky rice and food given by other people

Shuba: If I cook and give, would you eat that.

Oley: Yes, but you wont be around tomorrow!

Shuba: I smiled. I heard that you only eat twice and day. Is that true? What time do you eat?

Oley: Yes we only eat two times a day. Morning after our alms session and at about 12 after our school.

Shuba: Do you sit and eat together and share your food.

Oley: Yes we do but most of the time I only eat one time a day!

Suet: Why, won’t you get hungry? Dont you want to join your friend and eat!

Oley: No I am fat! And I am not hungry!

School and etc:

Suet : What do you have inside you bags. Can we see inside!

Oley: No. He then peeked inside and showed us just the parcel form America.

Suet: Why don’t you show us.

Oley: He just smiled and clutched his bag tight!

Shuba: Why do the monks and novices has different color bags! Does it mean anything!

Oley: No we just have different type of bag. Any color ok.

Shuba: Is there only one monks school here and who teachers you. Are they monks too?

Oley: Yes only one school here.. No we have two teachers. Monk teachers and general teachers.

Shuba: Can you have lady teacher? She wants to teach here!

Oley: He smiled. No only man teacher.

Suet : How do they get appointed? How much they get paid.

Oley: The government selects them. We don’t know!

Suet : When you finish high school, can you teach the younger one. When I finish high school I teach the younger one?

Oley: You teacher? What you teach.

Suet : I teach English.

Oley: You teach for free?

Suet : No they pay me money. Part time job.

Oley: I will teach for free. I don’t want money. I don’t like to be rich. I want to give to people. Some people are selfish.

Shuba: I think I am selfish. I don’t give much.

Oley: Why you say that.

Shuba: Because I have money and I use to travel when I can give to poor!

Suet : If I have a lot I will give too. But I haven’t much.

Shuba: So what subject do you take in school? You study Buddhism?

Oley: No we study normal subject like in school. I study Loa, chemistry, biology history, mathematic and geography.

Shuba and Suet : So why did you come back home early. Your school only finishes at 12.30!

Oley: No I don’t like mathematic. So I come back.

Shuba and Suet : Since you are novice, can teacher scold you or punished you.

Oley: No they don’t scold.

Shuba: So you get all a’s and they pass you because you novice.

Oley: No they don’t scold. They give extra homework.

Shuba: What subjects do you like most?

Oley: English. I learn from college form tour guide.

Shuba and Suet : Who pay for you education? The government pays for you or the monastery pay for you?

Oley: No our parents pay for us.

Shuba: Can you go to university.

Oley: No there are rules. The university doesn’t let us go to university.

Shuba: Since you take science subject, do you want to become doctor?

Oley: May be! And a while later he answered: I want to become monk. Poh chai (another novice we talked earlier) wants to become accountant. He wants to have his hotel.

Shuba: you?

Oley: I don’t know. May be!!

The School:

The novices to School:

Wonder what he is hidding inside there ???

Young novices with colourful bags: red, bule, green and even pink...

Novices at their fun time, playing drum..

Conclusion:

They whole conversation lasted for two hours. What we saw and what we heard was totally different. We indeed realized that some answers wer not genuine. Not because he was lying to us, but I guess it was his ignorance. May be the abbot way of teaching had influence with them dearly. But one thing was sure, they are uncertain with their life and decision. They have all been programmed to say that they will be monk at the age of 18, but it clearly shows that they are not sure with their life.

Later on that day, we meet another local and enquired about the monk, novices and monastery. We finally got the answers we were looking for. The reason behind the monastery was to the easiest way for poor to get education. Many were there because the parents force them to live such life. Nevertheless, not all came from poor family.

But to me I feel that, the whole monastery system is like military school. Its like survival camp where kids go through discipline and learn life with the hard way. Living modest, sharing and the same time have faith in god. But I guess, based on Oley ‘s question, it does help so much, when students from monastery realizes that he need to believe in his self and not god! Does it mean that people from Lao has finally awaken from the old school of thought? We have yet to discover. I would very much like to find out and I hope to get my answers through my friend Rei someday.

The American has finally spoken!!!

2008-11-05T20:45:00.000-08:00

Just a month ago I read the most awesome talked about book on earth, To kill A Moking Bird by Harper Lee. It turned out to be the most amazing story that I have read. A story involving racial injustice, about a black man in 1939, accused for the crime that he has not committed and was punished even though the trial favored him.

Today after 60 years of struggling for equality, one man has opened the eyes of America. The American has stepped out of the box by electing their very first black president. Who would have imagined a black man as the president of the States.

Today, I feel so proud with the Americans for voicing out what they believe. Its truly nice to see when voice of the public is heard loud and clear. I do believe that, with Mr. Obama in the picture, there would be new revolution in the world. I hope, all war will end soon, the world economic crisis will be dissolved and all will be united as one. Even though its the Greek that introduce democracy, but its the people of united states that have truly lived it. Long live Mr. Obama!!!

SOLO BACKPACKING- Discovering Sabah-KK Mountain (Part 2)

2008-09-12T01:33:00.000-07:00

Day 9: 26 July 2008

Conquering Mount KK

I started the day early. I shared the dorm with 2 other boys, hence quietly packed and sneaked out of the room not wanting to wake them up. With the new package, we are served 4 meals, breakfast, packed lunch, dinner at Laban Rata and breakfast after climb and lunch at Blossom again. So while waiting for the park office to open, I went for my buffet breakfast (which hardly served nothing for vegetarians except for bread and butter with fruits. Sigh! Quickly requested for my packed lunch and went to the office to keep my backpack at the store room.

The best time to catch the perfect mount KK views is at 6.30 am.

As I was talking to the staff there, I spotted someone talking and enquiring about guide and accommodation in Malay to the staffs. I quickly approached them asking if they didn’t mind me joining their group. Zahara and her husband, Roslan was kind enough to include me. Not wasting anytime, we approached the counter to give our names and got our self a guide, a sixteen years old school boy named, Maikon.

We drove to Timphonan gate using Roslan and Zahara’s rented Kancil. Both me and Zahara headed to the little shop at the entrance to get our rubber shoes, which turn out to be the best shoe I ever owed for hikes! And it only cost my RM5.00. We started our journey at about 8.20 am, being one of the very first group to start the climb.

The little shop that sell amazing handy stuff. this is where i got my shoes.

As usual the first part of the hikes was the most tortures 1 km hikes up. The track was wet and rough and difficult. It’s all the way up, up and up. Zahara was almost giving up till she spotted the first shelter, Kandis hut.

The beginning of the climb and the many tracks:

The very first hut at 1 km

We only stopped for short break and continued our climb. Unfortunately we got stuck behind the sixteen teenagers with huge bags. The group was very slow and they were soon slowing us down too. Maikon understood that, by waiting it would only tired us even more, hence quickly rushed us up. While waiting for Zahara and Roslan, Maikon asked me to continue climbing. So I climbed and climbed and climbed and stopping only couple of minutes at the huts. Once you get the rhythm of your legs movement, its just feels like walking in the air.

The group of sixteen teenagers that slowed us down

In just two hours, as I was half way up i bumped into many climbers heading down form early morning climb. By 12.20 pm, in less then 4 hours, I reached Laban Rata. It was a personal record comparing to my previous climb. I was so proud of my self. Since the check in time was only after 1.pm. and the heater only starts after 2.30 p.m, I lingered at the restaurant enjoying my packed lunch of spring rolls and cheese bread. I saved some of my cheese bread and apple for early morning breakfast.

The second hut, Ubah..

Man caring 25-40 kg of food supply to Laban Rata

Third hut, Mempening..

Fourth hut, layang-layang...

Man training for climber ton

Fifth and final hut, Paka..

First shelter, Waras hut

Second and the heated and the largest shelter, Laban Rata..

The victory signboard

The beautiful flowers of the mountains:

I waited and waited and waited and there was still no sign of Zahara, Roslan or Maikon. I quickly bathed and headed down again. Even Muriel and Casper, my friend from Uncle Tan who started at 11 a.m, was already there at Laban Rata but there was no sign of my group. Finally at about 3.45 p.m. they arrived half dead. Except me, all of them were staying at the unheated Gunting Lagadan hut. Hence, they decided to linger there till dinner time. Dinner was suppose to be served at 5, but everyone started to eat by 4.20 p.m. We waited till the crowd eased down and started dinner at about 6 pm. There was nothing vegetarian except for plain rice and one stir fry vegetable (luckily with out any meat in it). Sigh! So pathetic, paid RM208 and had absolutely nothing to eat! But the rest had a feast.

We lingered till 7.30 p.m till the restaurant was closed and headed to our room to sleep. As usual I could not sleep.

Inside Laban Rata:

The room

My stuff that helped the climbing

The view from the cafe

Day 10: 27 July 2008

Follow The Thin White Rope

I was a wake up 12.30 a.m. Quickly refreshed, changed, packed and headed down for breakfast. Maikon promised to be there only at 2 am. At 1.15 am, the café was only surrounded by fellow Malaysian all eager to climb. Luckily it was not raining. I finished my cheese bread and apple and quietly waited for Maikon.

As promised he was there at 2 a.m. We quickly headed up to Gunting Lagadan hut to meet Zahara and Roslan. Even though it only a couple of meter up, climbing the stairs was real torturous. The cold weateher and thin air makes it difficult to climb. By the time I reached the hut, I was panting and half dead. I am blaming on the food for not having enough energy!

We started the climb at about 2.30 a.m as soon as the park guide opened the door. The first phase of the climb is the most torturous climb in the second half, as its stairs all the way up for at least 40 minutes. The track is so small; it could only accommodate one climber at a time. So if someone is slow, it going to cause massive traffic jam. Hence, Maikon asked to me to walk ahead. In cold pitched dark at about 3 a.m, with only my head light I walked up beginning my journey to a place called heaven. I walked and walked and walked till I finally reached the second phase. From here onwards, the climb is so steep that one need to use the rope. This is where you wish you were as light as a feather or have really good arm! I have neither, so so was half dead by the time i reached the third phase, the check point at Sayat-sayat hut.

From there, it was the final 45 minute climb, but with the cold weather it made it more difficult to push forward. My hands were already numb pulling the wet rope with bare hands. By now, the air was so thin, I hardly could breathe. The group above me was soon disaapering form my eyes. All I could see was spot of light couple of meters above the mountain. By then i was only accompanied by couple from Dutch. The higher we went, the difficult it was and more I stopped. So to make it easier I made my steps consistant. For every twenty step forward I stopped for 20 seconds. Not knowing where was or how far we were, they only indication would be the shout form the previous group upon reaching up there. And in just moment away, we heard the victory sound above and we headed up to join them. It was then sharp 5 am. I had one hour to kill before sunrises at about 6 a.m. So along with the boys and the dutch couple, I sat there in the dark cold freezing mountain, patiently waiting for sun rise. But once again, I was disappointed. No perfect sun but nevertheless, the view was magnificient.

My friends:

The mountain top view:

At about 8.30 a.m I reached Laban rata, packed my bag, checked out, took light breakfast and started my journey to Timphonan gate. I had to move fast as my legs was giving up on me. It was soon getteing wobbley. By the time I reached the Layang Layang hut, it completely went off. I was taking one step at a time. Soon Zahara and Roslan catched up with me. By the time we reached Timphonan Gate it was about 3 p.m.

Roslan drove us back to the Park Heaquaters and we collected our cert. We ate our luch at Blassom cafe and continued our journey in separates ways. I was going back to KK town while they were heading to Ranau town. I somehow manage to get the bus (from Sandakan) to take me back to the town. After 2 hours, I was finally back in KK town. Quickly got the first taxi there to take me to my hostel. I was so tired I went in and slept in my dirty sweaty muddy clothes. I woke up at abot 10.30 p.m. Quickly took shower and eat my dinner. It was pouring heavily so I just ate my instant cup noodle. At about 1 a.m. I slept feeling so sad that my joruney came to an end and I need to go home.

Note:

Accomadation:

Sutera Sanctuary
Lot G15 Ground Floor

Wisma Sabah

88000, Kota Kinabalu

Sabah, Malaysia
Phone: +60 88 243 629

Fax: +60 88 259 552

Email: info suterasanctuarylodges.com.my

Tel: +60 88 872 907 (KK Park)
Fax: +60 88 871 239

Ph: +60 88 889 086 (Laban Rata)
Fax: +60 88 889 091

Price and fees reffer:

http://www.suterasanctuarylodges.com/

http://www.sabahparks.org.my/

Special insident to be shared:

As I was climbing up the mountain, a guide asked me, so you are alone where is you friend. I said two of them are behind with guide. Not that friend but the other one. I was shocked and then replied "she left so I am on my own. I met another Malaysian and now climbing with them." Out of curiosity I asked, do you know me or seen me somewhere. He said yah at Manukan, TAR. "..and you can remember me?", I asked. He said yah, you guys the one taking pictures with the life guard. I smiled with embarrassement and left.

Then the next day i reached the Timpohnan gate and was walking towards Roslan's car when a taxi driver disturbed me asking if I wanted a cab. I said no and left. He smiled and said, "you are the one that left your hand phone is the car the other day right?". I was stopped immidietely and looked at him shock. "How do you know?". He replied, "I am Samsir friend that dropped you guys to the airport!". I smiled said thank you and left. So embarrassing !

Note: its either i did to much havoc, or people just seems to be liking my face and remembering me..another week or so in Sabah, more people would recognize me on the street!

SOLO BACKPACKING - Discovering Sabah- Kinabatangan

2008-09-12T00:28:00.000-07:00

Day 6: 23 July 2008
Back to Basic

My first day as solo backpacker. Wishing so much Murphy's Law would come in action again. To cut the long story short, Pak cik Samsir, fail to come but manage to send his friend, Pak Cik Latif to send me to Inanam bus stop along with my tickets. Sabahan are great!

This were the real thrill begins...

I reached Inanam bus stop again at about 7 o'clock. I took Pak cik Latif's number (which i normaly don't do) and headed straight to the counter. It was early but the bus was already there so the guy and he said I could hop into the bus. It sure was better then sitting out and all eyes upon me like I have tentacles on my head!

So happy that I was not cheated, I quickly headed for my phone to message Guna. Deng..deng...deng ..deng..the phone missing. I panicked. I quickly throw all belonging in my back pack madly searching for the phone but no where to be found. I was pretty sure I had it when I left X'plore Backpacker and when I was in the taxi. I guess I must have dropped it in Pak Cik Latif's car. I quickly went our of the bus to the nearest phone both (luckily it was working) and dialed my number first. No sound, meaning its no where around here! So I took a deep breath and dialed Pak Cik Latif s number (thank god I took his number). He picked up and I told him about my missing phone. At first he said there weren't any but he said he will look for it! So I hang up, waited sometime and dialed again. Luckily, he picked up the phone and he said yes. But he was half way to the city and was reluctant to drive back till I persuaded to pay him. Moment later, he came back to return my phone. He was so shy and refuse to take the money so i told him get himself a good meal today. Sabahan are great! And my guardian angels are always by my side!

The bus only left at 7.45 a.m. So I quickly messaged Guna telling about the good news but not about the missing phone. The journey to Sandakan takes about 4 long hours so I simply relaxed enjoying the beautiful scenic Mount KK. I reached Sepilok Junction at sharp 1 o'clock, just in time before the group departs at 2 o'clock. Not knowing where the Ops Base/B&B was, I just walked and walked and almost anyone who by passed me stooped to tell me the direction. I guess they thought I was walking towards the Sepilok Orang Utan Santuary, which was really far.

The moment I stepped into the ground, everyone greeted friendly, specially Natt (I think that its name) who also guessed my name correctly. So impressive. Either because I am an Indian and it was easy to spot or he has good ability to spot people. To long in the jungle I guess!

I filled up the form, did my payment and of for lunch! Imagine that, the food is served before the journey begins. The food was simply lovely. Hardly a place I have travelled that have served various dishes for vegetarians (OK, OBS in Lumut did great job too!). There were at least 20 of us including a happy little french girl.

Most of the group mates

I have never seen any child so happy skipping in the jungle

The briefing was at 2 p.m. and we were all asked to gather at the eating area. Natt reminded us that, it was best if we leave behind valuable things! I totally agreed, I had whole lots of money for my KK Mountain trip (which I cant imagine to loose as there is no ATM at mountain and they don't accept card) and as well as my IC. So I didn't want to take any chance of loosing it.

At about 2.30 p.m. we were scheduled to depart to Uncle Tan's Wildlife Camp. The groups was then dived into 3 little groups. Everyone quickly unpacked and packed and repacked and handed in their bags to the van/taxi driver. The van departed to the old ferry site at the Kinabatangan River. It was estimated to take about 1 hour 30 minutes to reach the site.

As mentioned, Murphy's Law seems to be in action again! The van's tyre punctured and we had to stop in the middle of a strange looking highway beside oil palm estate. Luckily it was daytime. But our taxi driver was so superb, he managed to changed it in seconds without any help.

Our taxi got flat tyre..but the driver changed in just seconds..

Journey to Kinabatangan River: Uncle Tan's camp

We continued our journey till we reached old ferry site at Lower Kinabatangan River at about 4 o'clock. We were separated once again in groups to be transported to Uncle Tan's base. At that point the staff were not as friendly as it was mentioned in the web site. They were all stern and moody but I guess they have to for our safety purpose. I went in on the first boat accompanied by the backpacks. The ride was superb as it was drizzling. In less then an hour or so we reached the base camp.

The Kinabatangan village..

The old ferry site at Kinabatangan River- pick up and drop of Uncle Tan

The stunning calm Kinabatangan River

Boat ride to Uncle Tan's Camp

The place was filled with mosquitoes. I didn't realise it will start even at the river bank so smartly put my mosquito repellent in my big backpack. Luckily some one there offered me his. We waited and waited and soon our bags arrived. We were asked to carry our own bag. So I head down to the river bank and pointed at my bag. Up till then no one knew I was Malaysian. So when I said, "Beg biru dengan mangga! (Blue bag with padlock)", the chap in the boat was stunt and didn't move an inch. I repeated slowly this time, he looked back and he was still standing blurry. His friend quickly moved forward, showed him the bag and smiled. "You faham Bahasa Melayu (You understand Malay!)", someone asked. I nodded and quickly grabbed my bag, smiled and said "Saya orang Malaysialah. Kalau tak tahu saya kena gantung diri saya ( I am Malaysian and if i don't know how to speak I need to hang my self") . Hearing that everyone laughed! That was so funny.

Since the rest of the group have not arrived yet, we decided to help them carry it up. We waited and waited and waited no sign of the other boat.

The curiosity with the guys was not over yet. They were always smiling and saying something in local language which I absolutely understood nothing! So much more for a Malaysian. One couldn't take it and popped out questions after questions. Why I was travelling alone/Why was my friend not following/How was my parents/boyfriend let me go alone/Why I choose to come to jungle. The question went on and on and luckily, I was saved with the arrival of the two boat.

The arrival place where we got attacked my mosquito..lots and lost of them

We quickly gathered our bag and headed to the camp. It was only ten minutes walk, but the track was so muddy. The camp was connected by a long plank walkway which lead to the main lodge, rooms looking like cages at both sides and bathrooms. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by our host, Remy! First things first, we were given our room. And even that had to be divided fairly. Of cource me being single, was the last to be dumped and I was sent to stay with Micheal and Mikela, the couple form Denmark.

The room is pretty basic, a bin to store foods, mattress to sleep, sheet given upfront and mosquito net above our head. Oh yeah, the light that works at 6 p.m. and goes off by 12 o'clock. Due to bad behavior by the monkeys and rats there, we need to make sure the rooms are always locked. So monkey out, us in. Isn't that ironic!

My cage

Settled with the room and food, the next important thing was toilet. Luckily it was just around the corner. But unluckily it was too basic. I console my self no bathing for three days! But what made me laughed was this:

Ta da!

There weren't any flush..so I laughed so laud in the loo...people would have thought I was mad..

By 7 o'clock, we were suppose to gather at the lounge area for briefing. The group was separated into two, seniors and the new arrivals, us. We went to the lounge are and they headed to the dinning area. Our host, Remy was suppose to start with the brief. He explained of the program arranged for tree days, dos and don'ts. Basically, the third is just relaxing. It lasted less then an hour before we headed for our dinner. Dinner was simply superb! I don't miss home at all!

The main block

My roomie chilling out at the lounge

Eating area

My delicious dinner..imagine 5-6 different type of dishes in the middle of the jungle

We gathered again after dinner for our first night safari by boat. It was scheduled at 9.30 till 0.30 p.m. We were asked to bring torches, water as well rain coat just incase it rains! The groups were separated again in three scorpian, King Fisher and Orang Utan, and I was send with Tony' group, the Scorpian.

Tony is a old timer, so we are hopping to see great stuff. The water level was not so high, so we had walk back to the river bank for our boat ride. In group and with torches, we walked back in the same muddy track. This time it was even harder, as we could not see the ground. And I loved it. The smell of the jungle, the creepy sound, the erie feeling was simply superb!

Along with us on the boat was Ross, a shy chap that sat inform of me and hardly say anything. His job was to be in charge of the spot light. However, half of the time Tony was calling me to tell Ross to move about!

I simply loved the ride. It simply reminded my previous night safari boat ride at Kalis Wet Land, Beaufort finding Proboscis and fireflies. The feeling of soft cold breeze on my face in dark as the boat speed away to unknown end was superb! I was actually dozing of till Tony stopped to show us wild lifes. From birds (Kingfisher and Owl) to monkey and even crocodiles! Simply awesome.

It was getting late. We were already took extra time with the safari so Tony turned his boat back at about 11.30 p.m. Upon our arrival, we all opted to get a pair of rubber boots to avoid the muddy surface. I found perfect one and was heading back to the camp. I didn't want to get to bed early so stopped by the lounge to chat with my fellow travellers but ended up chatting with the boys and laughing at their pictures framed on the wall of fame. Some persuaded me to stay back to see Civet Cats in action, but I was reluctant as it was my first night there in the jungle, and I didn't want to take any chances! So I left and headed back to my cage!

I had good sleep. My mind was actually in peace after along time. I really needed that! Time by myself.

Day 7: 24 July 2008

Where Have All the Animal Gone!

We suppose to begin our day at 6.30 a.m for our first morning safari. But I was wide awake by 5 a.m. and was waiting for the unheard morning call. By 6.30 a.m, amazingly all was gathered at the lounge and we walked back again to the boat at river bank. The rubber boat helped. This time around, we changed boat, from Tony to Lan and I was not surprised! It didn't matter who drove or navigate the boat, all we want was wild life! Big huge wild life!

This time, I was requested to sit at the back. Knowing me not knowing how to shut my mouth, I chatted with my guide basically talking about Sabah and wild life. The three boat separated in opposite direction and we went to the wrong side of the path. Why? Because we hardly saw anything expect for bird and long tail monkey. So whats more to do then to chat and it preety much annoyed the rest as they were thinking he was telling me something more to myself then the group. I can't imagine translating to them about Malaysian politic, while we sit and wait for the bird to fly or monkey jump. That was real silly.

The truth was, there was absolutlely nothing to show. I guess they expected the wild life to pop out to say helo there mate! But we were not in Africa, only Malaysia, where half the wild life have gone in to the ancestors tummy (so I was told by my friend while trekking Pinnacles)!

Felling disapointed, we headed back to camp for our breakfast. Our next activity was on due at 10.30 a.m. My mind was extremely in peace that reading abook seems not right! So I sat there writing my journal, that was untouched since the day I was with Guna!

1, 2, 3 Ready or Not Here I come....

Our next activity begain at 10.30 a.m. and we were handed over to Loy, a young funny chap. Loy was amazing spotting wild animal (specially insects), plants and etc. But what I liked most about him was his honesty to say that he hated morning jungle walk as its, boaring and difficult to spot animal. Imagine, a guide telling that! But he was good.

Our introduction was interesting...

Intially, just like the rest he didn't know I was Malaysian. But I like his techniques of wanting to know everyone's name and making them feel important. Superb strategy! He was bring us to swampy area and spotted a brown milipede near by a tree. He quickly took it in hand and started to explain. Bla..bla..bla..yada..yada.. yada and the only thing I remmeber now was the almond smell relesed by that creature! As he was stroking the creature, I was curios as that creature in his hand will curl. So I asked, "Does it Curl?" and he went "Huh!". "Curl i said slowly!" He still looked lost. To make both our life easy I simply asked him in Malay, "Gulung ke?" He was even more stunt then before and was silence for a while. Instead on answering me back, he siad "Wow! You understand Malay!", he said. " I am Malaysian!" I replied. Hearing that he laughed, feeling embaraced. Imagine if I know more language and bullied all!

Loy, holding some tinny little creature

I was telling him that Sarwak had more insects then Sabah. He was shocked. But i was rather shocked both this places was only filled with insects. While it was easy to spot in Sarwak, here we had no problem with the help of Loy!

Our mission today was to spot Orang Utan. He spotted them two days ago and was hopping it will remain there for us to see. So Loy called and called and called, no reply form them! He managed to find their habitat, his food and even his poops, but they were no where to be seen. Dissapointed, we headed back. Nevertheless, the walk in the jungle was indeed nice.

Animal at Lower Kinabatangan..

Long tail monkey

Bettle that curls like a ball why it shy

Beautifully sturctured tree

Beautiful wild Mushroom...the tip are pointed upwards!

Not mushroom again silly..its worm poop..cool huh!

Tranatula skin

Funny lookin inscet but not spider..as Loy said it had only 6 legs

Ugly beared pig

Kingfisher during night safari

It was then time for lunch. Lunch was superb. I am not missing home cooked food anymore. Need all that for the climb!

The next boat safari was scheduled at 5 p.m. after our tea break at 4.30 p.m. The animal don't come out in hot sun so we given free time for ourself. I was so lazy to sit in the launge, I slept in my stuffy room. The place was hot!

About 4.30 p.m., we took our tea break and headed for another round of boat Safarai with the same guide. This annoyed the rest of the group and they quickly requested me to translate what ever being spoken by us. Hmm, malaysian politic, life and Sabah was not something they want to know but I guess they were annoyed for the fact that they didn't see any animal earlier and it was all his fault.

Lan the boat guide..

So we went the opposite direction ofthe river. To my suprise we saw many things and the most awaited...Orang Utan as well Proboscis. It so cool. we made him stop at the river bank, got down on the land and stand right below those Orang Utan watching them eating, stroking and pooping! It was superb.

Watching Orang utan in action

We headed back to our boat and continued spooting more animal, but nevertehless, our chatting didn't reduce. They kept on asking what were talking about so I explained to them especially the strory about the male probosois' life. Even though they were happy with my eplanation but still wished it came out form the guide's mouth. So I kept my mouth shut!

It was getting a late and we were supposed to get back to camp for dinner. He suggested we use the lake way and I quikly nooded. Instead of shutting his mouth, he mentioned about some creepy story. The moment he said that, I snaped this picture and got pretty scared and stop snaping pictures . The journey back was the most erriest moment in Uncle Tan!

You see how the picture turn out...May be I am being paranoid!

The group headed back. The dinner was only at 9 o'clock, so we all gathered at the lauge to chat. Just then the generator went off and we all sat in the dark for along time. Yet we never stop chatting. It was so nice to explain the real thing about Malaysia rather then the rubbish they awalys read. Moment later, the electricity was back but we never stopped chatting. We were soon separated once again to sit in different groups, this this we were the seniors and the juniors went of to listen to the briefing.

Dinner was good and moment later we were devided to groups again for night jungle track which was exiciting But was not was the muddy ground that made it difficult to walk. Anyhow, nothing unusual was spotted except for the fact that we saw live Tranatula, scorpins, birds and more insect. I was getting tired of litlle animal and was waiting for MR. S. But we never saw any!

Went back to camp and decided to stay back for Civet Cat. Waited and waited and waited, finally when the light went of at 12 oclock and the guide asked us to shut our torches, it slowy sneaked out his hidding running between the dinning and resting area. The problem with all was that hey were not patient. Every time it coming runing in, the were runing chasing him out with red lights and cameras. So it kept on running. One time, the guide there cought it in the cabinet and kept there for sometime. It made some funny noices. He asked them all to be ready to snap pictures when he realese it. The french couple was all set with his camera to snap pictures. The moment he opened the door, it freed for its life.

That was really torcher! We were like paparazi's! All it wanted was scrapes and we were tourturing it. So what my guide did was to sneak some bread form the store and scated around the dinning area. Slowly, it came, looked around and quietly peacefully ate his food giving me ample of time to snap its picture. I know we should not have doen that, but looking at it so sad it reminded me of rusty! I was happy we did that. Moment later it ran away. I sat there chated with the guide. But the truth was I wasnt really listening to the confersation, (except to answer some screept stuff being asked) but actually enjoing the quiet momenet in deep forest, facing beutiful lake, shining moonlight! That's peace. I was happy with quiet moment and waived good bye to the guide and headed back to room to sleep.

Moment with Civet

Day 8: 25 July 2008

God bye peace.....

I guess hearing to much creepy thing made it hard for me to sleep. Its been three days since I bathe so I took my last bottle of mineral to remove thick layer sof dirt form my skin. One of the group was all set to hunt fo Orang Utan. I was just happy packing my bag. Finished with the task, I headed out to snap pictures and talking with everyone. Breakfast was only at 9 o'clock.

We were scheduled to depart at 10.30 a.m. The third gorup arrived but in no vain. They didnt manage to spot Orang Utan at all. So packed our bag, waived good by to all and was shipped of the the boat to be sent to the old ferry site at Kinabantangan river. We used the same Danau Girang way and the view this time was so magnificient. Our boat man once again was Tony, and this time we spotted the crocodilies agaian I guess there is something supernatural power with Tony to atrract them.

The Danau Girang lake..

It was another one hour journey back. Upon our arrival we were separated in groups, Semporna, KK and Ops Base Camp at Sepilok. we were served delicious lunch agaian. The 5 of us departed to KK at about 2.30 p.m on a big bright yellow bus.

Our journey took about 4 hours to reach KK Mountain at about 6.30 p.m. By the time we reached Ranau and town, it was drizilling and the whole place was misty. Me. Caspaer and muriel got down and registered for our room. They didn't have enough cash so went to teh nearest town to find money changer while I bathed with hot shower scrubbing away inches of dirt, did some calling, ate my packed instant packed poridge and headed staright to bed. It going to be long way tomorrow.

Note:

For more information about Uncle Tan wildlife Camp please reffer this site: http://www.uncletan.com/

SOLO BACKPACKING- Discovering Sabah- TAR

2008-09-12T00:11:00.001-07:00

Day 4: 22 July 2008

More Sun sand beach and hmm

It was my final day with Guna. Time passes by so quickly. We were having so much fun together. Today was going to be tight schedule. Woke early and went straight to jetty to catch the first boat to Manukan. Unfortunately we took the wrong tour agent and was asked to wait. Waited and waited and waited for almost an hour before the agents called us and requested us to change different tour agent as they didn't manage to find any customer! Sigh!

Luckily there was no additional charges. In no time all procedure was done and we were sent to the boat along with our snorkel stuffs (life jacket and mask that cost us RM15 each). We we put on a boat along with another 8 people.

As we excitedly enjoyed the view from the speed boat and chatting with the boat man when suddenly, deng..deng..deng.. Guna panicked and realised her bag was missing! We immediately searched. Looking at us being so anxious, the boat sense something was missing, quickly turned the boat and called the agent to check if the bag was still there. Luckily it was still there at the same spot. The boat man and his friend was laughing like mad man and went on on about teh silly act! It was so embarrassing.

The new view of the Jetty ...

Simple breakfast at the jetty

Hey Nemo, We are Coming to Get Ya...

We we dropped of at Manukan and given time till 11 a.m before we depart to the next island. The agent at the Island took us to the first life guard and requested us to swim there (not sure why) but I am guessing to avoid being late. The most embarrassing part was being stared at especially when they know we were Malaysian! So I started conversation with them, of course what else other then finding nemo! The gave me some clue where to find the fishes and was told its best when we feed the with breads. So off Guna went to buy the fish food and off I went diving into the sea (while they were watching and laughing at my rotten swimming skill!).

Unfortunately, there were no nemo but manage to see many big colourful fishes. Most of it was bigger the what I saw in Mabul. Tired, I headed back to the sea waiting Guna and complained to the boys there. All they did was laugh and more staring at me and then at Guna when she arrived. With that food in hand, we both jump to the sea. Second attempt was better as we had food with us. But we were not satisfied. We walked out of the water and headed further up where the rest of the crowd was.

There were more life guard here. By then they all new that we were Malaysian (modern technology, how news travel fast!) and was being really friendly. I kept on whining to the guard saying I can't see nemo. He suggested that I swim really far into the sea (imagine getting that from life guard!) where the buoy situated if I want to sea beautiful fishes. Sigh! It was sure was far and it means that we need lots of energy to swim there. To excited, both Guna and I agreed and jumped into the sea. The current was so so strong that it drifted us away to th eleft seid eof teh shore. So we went for second attempt. This time with more wiser suggestion form the boys. I swam and swam and swam so hard against the current and finally managed to grab the life buoy. As I was catching my breath waiting for Guna, I suddenly realised she was no where near, being drifted away to the other part of the sea and was basically screaming asking for help. " I cant..I cant.. I am tired!"

I was scared, tired and angry. I scolded her there and then and pulled her while I swam to the shore. I was almost giving up when one of the angel swam and helped me out. Probably they were laughing at all the drama that was happening there with binoculars nad decided to help when I reached the shore. Sigh! So embarrassing.

Nevertheless, the boys was good. There quickly offered to take us to the sea once again. Guna quickly agreed not thinking that she was unable to swim just moment ago. So I told him to hold her hand while I will swim all by myself all over again. This time I was extremely tired and the life buoy seems far far away. Just when I was about to give up, my another sweet angel in black swam and helped me. We stopped at the life buoy and chatted for along time in the middle of the sea before he send me off to Guna. He showed me the most magnificent view anyone could get under the sea. Nemo, lots and lots of them. Many colourful fishes swam across us, so near that we were able to touched them with our bare hand! I thought I died and went to heaven, again! Moment later, we swam back to the shore. As we came out of the sea, there were smiles in all of our faces, us seeing nemo and them helping us poor girls finding nemo. They were absolutely awesome!

By then it about time for us to depart. We waived good bye and left. But not satisfied, so we headed back to snap pictures with them. People there would have though we were either long lost friend or some crazy fools. We waived good bye again and headed back to jetty(after Guna spend along time in the loo) and realised the boat has left us and the next boat will only be there at 12 o'clock. Sigh! So we had no choice but to wait.

Entrance to Manukan- beautiful walkway

Our sweet, kind helpful angels that made our dream come true to see nemo swimming freely in the sea

leftover bombs

me after my snorkel..look how curly my hair is

beautiful view of Manukan beach

The Sapi Island.....

Since, Guna's flight was schedule at 5.20 p.m, it was for us to leave the island by 1 p.m. so that we can do some last minute shopping and eating. We quickly bathed and waited to be shipped back to the jetty. But the boat went to Sapi first before heading back to jetty. Giving us the opportunity to at least step on the island that we paid RM17 each. Sigh! I have no regrets.

Unable to snorkel here as we missed the 11 o'clock boat coz we were busy finding nemo and chatting with our angels in Manukan ....

Shoppin, Shopping, Shopping: Exploring KK Market

Before going for shopping, I went back to Sutera Sanctuary in Wisma Sabah to book hostel in the park it self as I could not find any other accommodation near by. It cost me another RM80 ringgit just for dorm and breakfast!

We walked to the markets and shopped till it was time for us leave. We went back and Guna bathed and packed for the final time. We went out to eat but almost all shops were cleaning up so ended up in chicken rice shop. I just ate my muesli. At about 4 p.m., the taxi arrived (and it was not Pak Cik Samsir but his friend!) and we were off to airport. Send Guna back and headed back to the to the town all by myself.

The markets...

The locals laid back life..

The beginning of the new journey....

By now, I was all by myself. It was the beginning of my solo backpacking trip and I felt it was best to start with good meal (rawa tosai and masala tea). A superb Indian food. Walked back to my hostel and had a long chat with Jenny. Later in the night, I went to the nearest Internet cafe and tried to download my pictures but failed. So went back and slept.

Everything starts with food..my rawa tosai for dinner at lotus restaurant api api centre..damn good...

Note:

Airport: Taxi-RM20 (inform which terminal air asia or MAS)

TAR:

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is accessible via 15 – 20 minutes speedboat ride from Kota Kinabalu. The departure and arrival point for the boat transfers is at the KK Ferry Terminal, situated next to the Malaysia Royal Custom Department. Boat transfers to the islands are available daily from 7.30am to 5pm.

Boat transfer fares to the Islands are listed as follows: *Fare per pax/boat

Manukan Island - RM23
Mamutik Island- RM23
Sapi Island-RM23
Sulug Island-RM25
Two island hops-RM33
Three island hops-RM43
Four island hops-RM53
Boat charter for one island-RM204
Boat charter for Malahom Bay-RM204
Boat charter for Police beach-RM204

* A levy of RM50 per boat will be charged for special pick up times or overnight stays
The following rates are not inclusive of charged terminal fee (RM1); each entrance fee is valid for 5 islands per day. Entrance fees: RM3