Northern Trip: Langkawi, Day 2

 

Day 2 in Langkawi. Kamal and I surprised ourselves by waking up really early. 5:00 a.m. was considered early for two persons who have been working like dogs the whole week (with one of them still experiencing severe fatigue). All in the name of sunrise. By 6:15 a.m., we were already crossing the road towards Pantai Cenang, aware by then that the actual sunrise was at the other end of Langkawi. Witnessing the break of dawn by the beach was still magical that we only returned to the hotel for the sake of Kamal's schedule. Yes, yes, he needed to work on a holiday.

 

While he was at work, I travelled, albeit merely through the World Wide Web. Kamal came back in time for lunch. Again, we dined at one of the restaurants along Pantai Cenang. Next destination: Makam Mahsuri. The mausoleum ended up as the only early attraction of Langkawi that we visited as we preferred a long stroll somewhere quiet. Not before we took a ride on Langkawi Cable Car though. 

   

About Makam Mahsuri: we loved the addition of traditional elements to the place. My personal favourite was the model houses, featuring conventional tools like penumbuk padi, which was once a childhood toy for me, my brothers, and our second cousins back in Rembau. Kamal reminisced about his childhood, too; how the kitchen resembled the one in Ketereh moons ago. Both of us loved the vast paddy field nearby. It reminded us of the wider paddy field along the highway from Penang to Kedah (and also reminded me of Paya Kumboh). 

An hour before the closing time of Langkawi Cable Car, we reached the base of Machincang range. The queue for the tickets was long, so, we were thankful that we purchased redeemable coupons for the ride while waiting for our rental car at Kuah Jetty the previous day. Only to join the long queue for the ride itself. Funny. While Kamal and I joked about the silver lining (behind the long queue), he saw an acquaintance and they managed to catch up with each other. 

Nearing the end of the queue, a staff who had been managing the line, asked us whether there were only the two of us. When we nodded, she let us jump to the most front row. We were in a cable car within a minute, along with two couples. One of the couples started a conversation to avoid jitter from the staggering height. Together, all six of us loudly admired the gorgeous scenery. Kamal related to us the story of those sceptics who were adamant that the project would flop due to the popularity of Genting Skyway. For a project that involved (staggering) height, they were exceedingly shallow. The expression on the visitors' faces as they appreciated the ethereal view was priceless. If only such appreciation could be extended to the facilities, there would not be any vandalism. Perhaps, the local authority should erect as many 'Keep Langkawi Beautiful' sign boards in Malay, too, for most of the artless graffiti was in the language. 

For sunset, I suggested a spot called 'Pemandangan Indah' (Look Out Point) that both Kamal and I saw on our way to the airport the day before. The place was aptly named; we beheld one of the most majestic dusk as the sun set behind the Machincang range, overlooking Langkawi International Airport. Too bad that the ground of Pemandangan Indah was ironically littered with rubbish. Aside from photography, one of our main activities there was rubbish-picking. We were seriously thinking of getting a thong meant for such activity for each of us (including Khalish). Next major thing to consider doing is to recycle.

For dinner, we were torn between Bon Ton and Cocomo. As I had decided for a sunset spot, Kamal had to give the final say for a restaurant. He chose the latter. How I loved the setting. The beach was calming, too (after the hype at Cenang stretch). The service was slow, but the sumptuous f&b made up for it. I recommend the chili crab. For our next stay in Langkawi, we would love to ditch fancy restaurants and indulge in cheap (yet scrumptious) seafoods. Any idea of such heaven?

Our idea of heaven for the night was dark chocolate (for dessert).

Northern Trip: Langkawi, Day I

The travelogue continues. The fourth day. From Alor Star, we drove to Harvard Golf and Country Club, Gurun, where Kamal was to meet three colleagues for a meeting. Our arrival at Farhan's parents' place was greeted with the best 50-cent nasi lemak and Malay kuih-muih. Meeting, with a king's breakfast. 

We only left the club after a morning tea, during which we were served with cookies, made by Farhan and his wife for Aidilfitri order. Talented friend, he is. Before Friday prayer, there was enough time for a sales and marketing practice for Kamal's colleagues (who have delivered items before, but never saw Kamal himself did it). Unfortunately, the owner of that particular retail outlet was not around. Marketing, yes; sales, no.

We went our separate ways after that. 

After Friday prayer, Kamal decided to go to Langkawi earlier, wanting to maximise our time together with vacation (instead of work). "Friday is a public holiday in Kedah anyway; no supervisors around to manage goods delivery", he thought out loud. So, we bought ferry tickets at Kuala Kedah; booked a hotel for two nights and a car for two days; re-packed our bags so that we only had one backpack for our clothing items, one (big) backpack for my camera, my favourite lenses, and the laptop; and another (way) smaller bag for Kamal's camera and tripod. Two backpacks and a smaller bag -plus four boxes to be delivered in Langkawi. Lucky us the goods were light. 

Our first ferry ride together was spent by catching up with sleep. We woke up to Sifu and Tongga. Entertaining, but we wished that we could sleep until the ferry stopped at Kuah Jetty. We would like to munch the nuts we bought for the ride, but they were in one of the bags, placed at the front row along with other passengers' bags. Everything happened for a good reason, the wise men said. At Kuah Jetty, the nuts kept us occupied while waiting for half an hour for an automatic Wira (instead of a manual car). Calmness rocks. 

A late lunch was followed by another delivery. Friday was a public holiday, yes, but luck was with us -the supervisor was around for a deadline. At that moment, I knew that my travelling future would revolve around Kamal's schedules. Heh. I was right. Still experiencing the fatigue episode, and missing Khalish a la folie, Kamal and I decided that it would be best for me to fly back on Sunday -after all, there was more of the Northern region for Kamal; at least, a week more. Hence, a flight ticket for me that very evening. 

During the drive from the airport to the hotel, we could not believe how Pantai Cenang had changed (or how long we have not been there, as individuals). According to Kamal, it resembled Kuta, minus the clubs. We also saw cheap motels right in front of the beach. While thinking of the bad architecture, we were also thinking "if we were more adventurous and not book a room just because it is a weekend, we would be nearer to the beach." 

However, Langkawi Boutique Resort was OK -as long as there was dependable WiFi, remember? We loved the vibrant painting along the walkway that led us to the accommodation building (from the reception building). I did not prefer the swimming pool, but I definitely loved another form of workout that the hotel provided, particularly for the guests on the fourth floor. Like us. Yes, there were no elevators. 

For the day's adventure, we did deserve a hearty dinner. Walking along Pantai Cenang area, we chanced upon innumerable interesting eateries. One of them was Haroo, owned by a charming Korean lady. I loved the barbecue set which came with ice cream and fruits dessert. We walked along Pantai Cenang area again after dinner. 

We were finally in Langkawi, as a couple. No. As a comot couple (after the sweaty walk ~heh).

Northern Trip: Partly Penang and Partly Kedah

 

Penang streets.

Ah, the third day in the northern region. Successful project so far, for Kamal (excluding that difficult client first thing in the morning who actually taught us to be tougher et calmer simultaneously). He seemed frustrated though that I was kind of forced to be confined in the car most of the time, except during those hours I helped him with the boxes or completed my own work. The truth was, I did easily become lethargic because of the severe PMS and routine, but I also enjoyed just accompanying him for work (and getting to understand his job responsibilities). Just being with him. Yes, both of us did miss Khalish! (We knew nevertheless that he was enjoying his maternal grandparents' love and their vast garden).

For lunch, I lifted my ban on refined carbohydrate mainly because of the increasing lethargy level, and partly because of the increase in my curiosity about nasi kandar authentic taste. Never mind your chuckles. Heh. At least, I'm done with my craving (so, that was what mattered most; and I could hear you chuckled again).  

The nasi kandar provided us the much required energy to attempt street photography. The key word: attempt. My, how we were drenched in sweat only after a few turns from where we parked the car. We fervently hoped that it was a sign of burnt calories. (More chuckles). The further we walked, the more calories we burnt discoveries we made of Penang ancestors' legacies -surviving shop lots from the Straits Settlements era (some battered, some renewed), a chettiar's black umbrella, and millennium-age businessmen with tools from the '50s. More of Kamal's work afterwards.

More successes, too, that we could afford to retire early. At least, for the day. Since we decided to go back to Feringgi for our last dinner in Penang, we had also decided to put a stamp to the decision: the dirty clothes were sent to a laundry service in Tanjung Bungah before we checked out of the hotel that morning. Since it was too early to pick the laundered items, we chilled with capati (for me) and prata (for Kamal). They were served with the best dhal gravy we have ever tasted. A much deserved tea time. Ahem.

The day was in fact about indulgence. After a power nap in the car, we had steamed seabass, a special menu at Moonlight Cafe. What attracted us to the cafe was the beach, which I noticed from our first day there. Later that evening, Kamal drove us to Kedah for an impromptu morning meeting with his colleagues. I fell asleep in the car once we reached Gurun. Kamal only woke me up for an approval over the only hotel he could find along the dark roads, Hotel Seberang Perak. About the hotel. It:

- was adjacent to Dr. M's place of birth.

- cost only RM55 per room.

- was the place JAIK caught two couples on khalwat (the day before).

- appeared like its worth (with squat toilet)!

- was not equipped with elevator, so we were thankful when we were moved to the first floor, instead of the top floor initially. 

- was the best hotel for us, somehow; have (free and fast) WiFi, will live (happily and prosperously).

 

Batu Feringgi beach, by the Moonlight Cafe.

Northern Trip: Penang

 

Teluk Bahang.

Another work trip for Kamal. This time around, he was to cover three northern states. The path included Langkawi, a place that Kamal and I have been dying to go to, together. 

Nevertheless, before reaching that island, we had to tour Kedah and Penang. Interesting, but tiring (and I definitely blame PMS for the fatigue). The interesting part was segmented to these: 

- I drove Kamal's Accord for the first time on Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan, from Kuala Kangsar to Juru. Not that far, but it was an achievement for me who has been refusing to drive others' cars, fearing I might scratch them (despite the adage 'fear nothing but the fear itself'). Now, if Kamal's car disappears from the porch, he should know the person responsible for the loss. Heh.

- Within an hour, I learnt about sales and marketing just by viewing Kamal at work. OK, 0.0001 percent of sales and marketing.

- Kamal and I discovered that we disliked KFC. Not because of the taste, but due to the constipation it caused. Yikes, but true.

- A promotional banner at Travel Lodge Butterworth stating 'RM50 a room' exactly meant 'RM50 a room, during the day, for only one hour'. Our gullibility got us in stitches. We ended up at the near-by Hotel Palm Inn. No complementary breakfast, two single beds (that moved apart with a single movement after they were combined), and a staff who blocked our car although parking spaces were aplenty. Those apart, both of us were happy campers. Always.

That was the narration for June 23. The next day, Kamal and I spent the whole day on the road, with a number of pit stops in the name of work. I assisted Kamal in any ways I could (and yes, another 0.0001 percent of sales and marketing lesson). Alhamdulillah, Little Trees were well-accepted wherever we went. Upon report after report of acceptance, his colleague remarked that I was Kamal's lucky charm. Indeed. For the great job, we treated ourselves at a restaurant that a fellow friend (who hails from Bukit Mertajam) suggested, Restoran Kapitan. The tandoori deserved two thumbs up from each of us. The grilled meats I ordered were delicious, but not as memorable as the tandoori. We mainly liked it for the WiFi though. 

In fact, the places we ended up favouring offered WiFi services, either at low price or (best of all), free. 

Maghrib was at Teluk Bahang. We survived the crawl after the bridge, thanks to the nuts bought from a client's Mesra. Kamal recalled a short camping trip there during schooling years. I became nostalgic about a family vacation (which was arranged so that we could visit Cajib at Balik Pulau). Those were the stories exchanged while in search for a good spot for photography. Truthfully, we preferred to rest at a good (with reasonable rate) hotel room. Nevertheless, it would be such a waste to lug the cameras and lenses along sans any photographs for a journey that we were looking forward to. So, we persevered and voila, we have photos for this mini documentation of our life. Thanks heaps, too, to the scrumptious laksa by the beach (that lifted our spirit). 

Nearing dusk, a group of youths set up a barbecue pit near our photography spot. I was asked to snap a group photo of them (using their compact cameras -too bad I was using 70-200mm lens then as the space was limited). What shocked Kamal and I later were the barbecued chicken and fruit salad they sent us -just for snapping their photos. Thank you, thank you. The foods were delicious!

We only found a hotel room at the so-called reasonable rate an hour after leaving Teluk Bahang. Thanks to Kamal who believed in my senses. Hotel after hotel, I kept telling him that we would find the room that not only suited our budget, but also our needs. 

At RM190, Tanjung Bungah Beach Hotel offered us a nice room, with five hours of WiFi, chicken chop dinner on the bed, and breakfast for two, by a beautiful beach. Aren't we easy to please?

Mahu, Tapi.

Kamal and I have acknowledged that 2009 is our travel year. Even work trips have brought us to interesting places; the Borneo states, the country's southern tip, and recently, the northern part. Now, if only the internet connection is stable. 

Until I go to another place with WiFi tomorrow.   

Khalish, 10-Month-Old

 

Khalish has now been in the second week of the 11th month (of his life). Nonetheless, today's post is about how Khalish was at 10-month-old: 

- Although he loved to stand up while holding to a furniture/person, he had always been comfortable maneuvering from one end to another in combat crawl. Not until he turned 10-month-old on May 12 did he explore the ground on all fours. 

- A master of peekaboo game by then, he has also mastered the peekaboo book that I got for him months earlier. Whenever anybody read the story to him, he would wait until the reader asked him the question at the end of each page, "could you find the baby?", before flipping open the fabric that hid his infant friend. 

- He understood what "peekaboo" was, but he would say a spirited "cak" if he played the peekaboo game. Perhaps, the word preference was rooted from our Kelantanese version of the game, 'cikucak'.

- If Kamal and I needed to be out of Klang Valley for less than two weeks, we would book Rembau Inn for Khalish. He loved it there, surrounded by his maternal grandparents, the three bachelor uncles, and the maid. Nevertheless, according to his number one guardian after the parents, my mother, he was his most active self around the two of us. For example, upon seeing us in Rembau after our return from Perth, Khalish flaunted all his latest skills simultaneously, refusing to stop until he was extremely exhausted.

- The stairs were (and still are) his gymnasium. He could ascend the stairs up until the final case if we let him. His fitness trainers (a.k.a the ones who would closely follow his every step) were (and yes, still are) the grandfather, the parents, the bachelor uncles, and the maid. 

- His favourite uncle has always been Paksu.

- This guy was always on the move that we did not know whether or not he could sit on his own. Therefore, it surprised us when he finally sat (on his own) for more than two minutes. 

- He loved apple or banana or yoghurt or biscuit or any two, combined, in between the main meals. He loved Yoplait yoghurt for baby. I have yet tried Calci-yum.

- He might choose to flaunt the physical skills later than other infants his age, but he surely speaks like a toddler, albeit in Khalishese dialect. Humour him with a conversation on the latest political hu-ha, and he could yak a response as though he was a guest on Suhaimi Sulaiman's show. 

- According to his maternal grandma, a speech trainer once cured a child's speech problem with tongue exercises, which were similar to Khalish's moves. For the record, neither Kamal nor I, nor our family members, could roll our tongues like Khalish did (and still does). No wonder he has developed a complex dialect by then.

- His tongue exercises might have frightened the tooth fairy. At 10-month-old, he only had one lower central incisor; a funny image, if you ask me. But then again, Khalish IS a funny guy. A happy-go-lucky one, too.

 

Around Western Australia: The Finale

 

 

 

 

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Sir James Mitchell Park, South Perth.

Around Western Australia: Day 7

 

A farewell to Perth Ambassador Hotel.

Our final day in Western Australia. No, check-in at 4:00 a.m. at the airport the next day does not count as 'a day'. To maximise time in Perth, we checked out of Perth Ambassador Hotel right after breakfast. Everybody was very punctual that all of us were ready at the lobby by 8:30 a.m., early by half an hour. Enough time for a photo session. 

 

Amusements during the Farm Show, at Caversham Wildlife Park.

Our tour guide drove one of the Taragos, leading the other two to Caversham Wildlife Park. We managed to secure seats for the 10:00 a.m. farm show. Entertaining; mainly because the little adorable lambs reminded Kamal and I of Khalish. Particularly, while they were being fed with milk. When the show ended, we explored the rest of the park.

 

The animals around the wildlife park.

Animals were aplenty, but (our) time was not. Therefore, we chose to see only the animals that were unique to Australia (with the goats and the ducks being in the way). The favourites among us were koala and kangaroo. (However, my father had a vengeance against the latter for troubling him during the road trip. Funny). As cute were wombat and tasmanian devil.

About tasmanian devil, the creator of the popular Looney Tunes version deserved a pat on the shoulder for transforming a common rat-like animal into a likeable monster. 

Fascinated with the kangaroos, still at the wildlife park.

Of course, the kangaroos were the stars of the park. My father, whose initial reason of entering the park was to tell the kangaroos that he detested them, eventually melted. He fed them. His daughter kissed one in white. Everybody was eager to see a joey, but what we saw was merely its foot sticking out of the mother's pouch. We doubted it could still be called 'joey'. 

I later read that there are more animals at the park. Next time, with Khalish, Insya-Allah.

Chocolat! Margaret River Chocolate Company.

Being tourists, we visited another attraction. A compulsory visit: Margaret River Chocolate Company. Ja received a package here from Azley, for her birthday. Aaah! I would love a serving of fruit fondue or hot chocolate, but we were pressed for time. Yes, perhaps, next time, with Khalish around. So, I kept myself contented with the free samples of white chocolate, milk chocolate, and my favourite, dark chocolate. So did everybody else. Now, we know why it remains a compulsory visit. 

After the chocolate company, we were supposed to proceed to Kings Park. However, the golden hue from a grape plantation across the aforementioned compulsory visit tempted us for a quick stop. Next stop, but a long one: Kings Park!

 

Panoramic view at Kings Park.

The breathtaking (and historical) Kings Park. Wikipedia would tell you what the park is comprised of, so I will rave about what my friends and I did there instead. We went wild with our cameras, first and foremost. Who could resist hindustani poses with those 100-year-old trees and the endless greenery? We walked and talked (which, by that time, were what we did best), and more importantly, we connected to each other.  

Appreciating the park.

In the case of a fellow traveller, Jack, a little boy approached him, and would not go until the latter peeled the banana in the former's hand (p/s: refer the photo collage below). It was amazing how the child reminded us that 'life IS simple'. Smile, and others smile back at you. Be nice, and others would be the same. The only thing is, life is simple only if everybody's mantra is in sync.

Appreciating the people, at the park.

At the court of contemplation, we tested whether or not a whisper at one end could be heard at another far end. We decided to share our life mantra, in the hope that it would reach those who were listening. 

Portraiture session in the greenery.

Towards the end of the Kings Park visit, Kamal and I suggested a portraiture session for each couple/individual. It was surely nice seeing the more reserved couples sportively pose for the cameras, for the sake of documentation. Their merry laughter echoed throughout the park. The mantra was actually heard. It sounded like this, "appreciate life."

A form of life appreciation: more sightseeings. 

At Harbour Town, we had lunch at its food court, and later, explored the complex and the surrounding area. The items were economically priced, but they were aimed at the locals. Converted into RM, the Nike clothings that I was eyeing fared similarly with the ones in Malaysia. I only bought a wool hat because it warmed my face in the chilly winter weather. It might also be useful for other overseas trips one fine day. 

(S)hopping at Harbour Town.

The evening was spent at Sir James Mitchell Park, but the photos there will be featured later, to conclude Around Western Australia series. For now, here are the photos (and the summary) of our last activities before going to the airport: 

 

Automatic car wash and little trees.

As we were going to return the vehicles that evening itself, they were thoroughly washed and vacuumed. Just like their condition when they were handed to us. One of them suffered from a minor accident during the 3500 km road trip though. From my father's vast road trip experience, such accident would be covered by the car rental company's insurance. However, two weeks after coming back to Malaysia, our tour agent informed us of her credit card reduction, done by Avis for the damages. A lesson: do read every word in the rental Terms and Conditions as each continent may carry different T&C.

 

Makan-makan at Makan2.

Dinner was at Makan2, a Malay restaurant that was also preferred by the locals for its good foods and beverages. They might not be as delicious as the f&b in Malaysia, but considering the difficulty to get certain ingredients in Perth and the cosy ambience, Kamal and I gave them a thumb up each (which made two thumbs up). We loved the roti telur (whose recipe was our tour guide's husband's legacy) and the Maggi/Mi Sedap goreng. The nasi bariani that both of us tried was almost as good as the ones served at JM Bariani. Three of our friends were not as satisfied though for their rice was not properly cooked. Better service in the future, we hope.

By 10:00 p.m., we reached the airport. Our tour guides waited until everybody (and everything) were nicely settled. A number of us chose to sleep right away, while a larger number of us sat over black coffee or hot chocolate to share our respective views on the trip and the important matters back at home. Kamal and I slept at 1:00 a.m., three hours before check-in time. Sleeping on a stretch of hard seats was not a problem for me, but the chilly wind that seeped into the hall every time the doors opened was challenging my physical (and at a point, my mind). A sleepless night in Perth, with a deep-in-sleep beau. 

To compensate for his lack of accompaniment through the ordeal, Kamal bought me a plain notebook Moleskin at the departure hall. I suspected that he would like to finish the AUD coins in his pocket. All in all, I loved every single thing about the Around Western Australia trip.

*A tip: if you are flying with Air Asia with booked meal, choose a menu familiar to the country you're departing from. For example, if you're flying from Perth, do order Western food instead of Asian dish.  

Around Western Australia: Day 6

 

Mandurah, Mandurah. I love the name; and I love the place. So do the others in the group (that we are thinking of buying a property there once we become millionaires -heh). 

We spent the morning walking around while waiting for our respective turns to use the bathrooms. Those who were done packing prepared breakfast. Again, we had fish, freshly caught by the so-called enthusiasts the previous evening. Other items in the menu were bread, grilled chicken, and my favourite, skim milk. Always a hearty breakfast for us as we knew what was waiting ahead.

 

So, what was ahead? Lots of walking, and, to some, shopping! Kamal and I skipped the latter, as usual. Instead, we hunted for photo opportunities. From E Shed Markets to Fremantle Markets, we walked and walked and met interesting subjects. They included people. One of them was an independent photographer, Michael, whose passion for Rottnest Island led to an opening of a gallery at E Shed Markets. The gallery featured works by him and his wife on Rottnest Island, ranging from books and photographs to paintings. 

Inspiring! Aside from being a port city, Fremantle (or Freo to the locals) is a pot for arts. A very, very eccentric city. Too bad we only had three hours to roam around. 

 

 

My personal favourite place in Fremantle was the Fremantle Markets. I remember buying an antic hairbrush for my mother during my first visit here. I would love to try the local fruits, but my hands (and Kamal's) were already full with our photography kits. (In fact, I would love to get my hands on a particular quaint decorative items).

Quaintness aside, the Markets were full of talented buskers. The one with the most audiences was a man who ate fire for a living. Perched high on a pole, with historical buildings in the background, he surely appeared dramatic. 

Out of the markets, Kamal and I traipsed through aisles after aisles of buzzing activities; fairy-themed party; more buskers, family picnics, church wedding, and a lot of fathers tending to their respective children while waiting for their respective spouses to complete shopping. Loving, aren't they? -Hint hint.

We had tremendous fun photographing the nitty gritty of the city that we hardly realised how time flew by. Too fast. So, we rushed to the designated meeting point, the railway station, only to find three persons there. The rest must have enjoyed the city as much as we did. 

At 3:30 p.m., one by one appeared at the waiting area, bearing with them loads of souvenirs for those at home. They asked Kamal and I the whereabout of our shopping bags, if there were any. We said, "the photos are our souvenirs". I actually took a long time to update my blog with these travel stories because of the time spent to complete a 78-page photobook, with write-ups. Of course, there were fitness training, editing work, Khalish, and more travelling in between. 

Back to Fremantle, we were thankful that the souvenirs could fit into the limited luggage space of the Taragos. Heh.

At Perth, we stayed at Perth Ambassador Hotel. A twin room for the eldest couple, and quad rooms for the rest. The four single men exchanged their room with Zam & Ita and Kamal & I because it was divided to two sub-rooms (with a queen bed in one sub-room and two single beds which could be combined to be a queen bed in another). So thoughtful of them. 

For dinner, each of us was given AUD15. Kamal's MCOB friends, Redza and Farhan, came to the hotel to accompany us to dinner at Old Shanghai Food Court. An interesting fact: Kamal only knew Redza and Farhan through Facebook prior to the meeting that evening. They turned out to be friends of our tour guides, Ammar and Nurul, too. Thank you, guys, for the hospitality (and the scrumptious kebab). The evening would have a great ending if Ita and I didn't sleep too early that we missed the trip to Burswood. Kamal bought me a bar of our favourite dark chocolate to compensate for the missed-outing. 

Around Western Australia: Day 5

Amusements at the last pit-stop along the North West Coastal Highway.

Another stop at another roadhouse marked another Subuh in Western Australia (and the end of stray animals). Our initial plan to spend a night either in Coral Bay or Shark Bay was cancelled as Mandurah seemed to be a more ideal stop because of its proximity to Perth. 

  

Swaps. The countryside for the city, and one vehicle for another vehicle.

As soon as there were more patches of greenery, we knew we were nearing Perth. We first stopped at Fremantle though. Not to tour the city, but to fuel up. There, the main drivers for 1CQF 133 reported a malfunction. An hour later, a representative from the car rental company arrived at the petrol station with a replacement vehicle. While waiting, we shopped for f&b.

 

The launderettes. Yes, including the lady (whose hair was still flat from a recent shower).

Reaching Mandurah, we settled down at Dawesville Caravan Park and Holiday Village. Three motels for all of us, with each motel accommodating six to seven guests. I volunteered to sleep at the open attic. It would have been a great value for money if the heaters functioned well. Nonetheless, we slept like logs despite the chill. Must be from all the activities that evening; Kamal and I volunteered to launder the group's dirty clothes, with my father tagging along just to see the town centre. There were a number of us who chose to relax at the motels, but most went fishing. 

In the last photo collage are photos of a camerawoman who was happy that someone offered to photograph her (to kill the waiting time). Thanks, Kamal. Ayah bought us fish and chips dinner at one of the joints that only catered for take-away orders. 

Around Western Australia: Day 4

A farewell.

The morning that we were to leave the town, the locals dropped by Mr. Kamal's place to bid farewell. The ladies brought with them ingredients for nasi lemak and its condiments that we planned to cook for the upcoming journey. Among the lauk-pauk prepared was ikan berlada, courtesy of the enthusiasts' catches the previous day.

Final words by both parties were followed by handshakes and hugs. Three days of new camaraderie in Port Hedland were to flourish with each other's promise to meet again.

New definitions of beauty.

For the journey back to Perth, we decided to use the North West Coastal Highway for its postcard view. Oases in the form of creeks running through the savannah; Flocks of exotic birds dancing in the sky; full moon in broad daylight; and more. Even the electric towers were unique, resembling kangaroos. 

Roebourne was one of the pit stops that all of us will remember for its lack of people despite the complete facilities. Such towns were built with travellers in mind, we summarised. The only local we met was a drunk Aborigine. 

Roebourne.

North West Coastal Highway was 300 km longer than the Great Northern Highway. Nonetheless, the journey seemed to be shorter because of less anticipation. To maximise our time on the road, the drivers only stopped by the passengers' requests. Hence a snacking session at 3:00 p.m.! 

Our friends in Port Hedland were very generous to pack various types of biscuits and chocolates for us. Nenek Maznah fried her famous curry puffs; sodap! (She hails from Rembau). She also packed along persimmons. We decided to save her chicken wings for lunch. 

Fortescue Roadhouse.

The so-called tea time took place at Fortescue Roadhouse. There, we met fellow travellers, like the husband-and-wife bikers in the photo collage above. They shared road trip tips with us -one of them being "enjoy the scenery." Abah once advised us to minimise sleeping while travelling on the road, particularly at new places, as one would benefit more from the journey by appreciating the surrounding. 

Yes, we did heed the advices. For our lunch, we decided to stop at one of the most scenic spots along the highway. Nanutarra. Here, we had the opportunity to meet the roadhouse's owner, Mr. Allen. Malay faces reminded him of his two-year national service stint in Penang. 

Nanutarra.

We stayed there for the sunset. Magical! Kamal and I had a misunderstanding earlier on that we decided to minimise any contacts between us. The aforementioned magical sunset broke the spell. Kamal mellowed down and sat beside me for lunch. I was so relieved for the broken spell (that broke my ego, actually) that I asked him to pass me a chicken wing just for the communication. I dislike chicken wing.  

We continued the journey throughout the evening, and the night. Those behind the steering wheels must have been kept awake by the kangaroos that would leap onto the road once they sensed a flicker of vehicle light. For once, the signs 'stray animals: 200 km' came to live. Fortunate us, the floodway signs remained as they were, signs. 

Around Western Australia: Day 3

 

Lunch like a king. Have I told you how we loved the backyard concept?

More stories were shared between the host and the guests the next day. Hearty lunch for such heartfelt accounts. What else than everybody's favourites, lamb chops (bought by the group's chefs at a nearby market) and fish (caught by Mr. Kamal). Now, the question was "where did he catch the big fish?". Once that was answered, the next question was "shall we?", coming from the host, and followed by enthusiastic smiles and nods from the enthusiasts among us.

Fishing time!

At a secluded beach, which was one of Mr. Kamal's preferred fishing points.

 

I shall say that it was one of the best activities for a vacation (surprise, surprise). Perhaps, the statement came from my photographer persona who was charmed by others' passions. At the beach, those who didn't fish, watched. Not for long though. 15 minutes afterwards, everybody was up on their feet, cheering for the first catch. Some chose to celebrate by jumping into the cold water! To make them warmer for more celebration, they said.

 

At the beach, we bonded with the nature, as well as with the people.

Yes, more celebrations ensued as one after another fish was brought out of the water. We had Mr. Kamal to thank for the big catch; he lent the enthusiasts his collection of fishing rods, taught them the tips to fish at one of his favourite spots, and even shared the baits. This particular outing inspired the ladies to hold a picnic for our next gathering, where the enthusiasts fish and the others do what they love best - catch up with each other, swim, cook, or play games.

All of us headed for South Hedland again after Asar.

South Hedland Mosque.

For Maghrib, a congregational prayer was performed at South Hedland Mosque, which was built solely with the Muslim community's fund. Following the prayer was a majlis ilmu. Too bad most of my lady friends and I had to stay at home because of menstrual cycle and the need to prepare a number of dishes as a courtesy for our dinner co-hosts.

A farewell dinner that introduced us to wonderful people.

There were more locals at Mr. Joe's for dinner this time: Mr. Rizal, his wife, Mrs. Norfadilah, and their two sons; Mrs. Rose's daughter and her baby; and Nenek Maznah and her close friend. Mr. Joe and Mrs. Sarina's sons helped Mr. Rizal at the barbecue pit. Sate kambing was the special menu for the evening. Other special mentions: trifle and yoghurt+fruits+ice cream desserts. To perfectly conclude our last dinner there was the warmth of Port Hedland malay populace.

Around Western Australia: Day 2

 

Sunrise, Auski

Partly because of fatigue, and partly because of the so-called miscalculation mentioned in the previous post, the drivers agreed to rest at Auski Village. It was 2.30 a.m. when we reached the place, only three hours away from Subuh -too short a time to spend precious AUD on a proper motel. Hence an overnight in the vehicles. 

Subuh was welcomed with various activities. The ladies were first to be at the restrooms. The men checked the vehicles. Those with video cameras interviewed the refreshed fellow travellers. Those with still cameras documented the surrounding. We proceeded for Port Hedland as soon as everybody had stretched themselves ready for the finale (of National Highway 95 route to Port Hedland).

 

Port Hedland, eventually!

At 11 a.m., Port Hedland greeted us with a stunning view of the longest train we have ever laid our eyes on. Soon after, we oohed and aahed at yet another of the town's icon: salt mountain. We later learned that the train transported iron ore, and the salt was produced for industrial consumption. We digested more information on the town (gathered from the information centre) over fish and chips brunch. All the while, everybody thought, "finally!"; for eventually seeing Port Hedland, and for having a proper meal at last!

Our contact person in Port Hedland was Mr. Kamarudin, also known as Kamal. He welcomed us at the eatery outlet and from there, led us to his place in South Hedland. Din's story was very accurate; our host was beyond amiable, treating first-time visitors like old chums from the first second we met. The most cordial welcome, that was. 

Mr. Kamal's place.

As Mr. Kamal insisted, we made ourselves at home at his place. His brothers were travelling for the week, so he also insisted we slept there. Settling down, the food enthusiasts among us shopped for meal items, while the rest stayed at Mr. Kamal's place for shower (which was another 'finally' moment) and a dose of satellite television (which was airing endless Manohara, hmm). 

Then, there was a cosy backyard to enjoy. The guests and the host exchanged stories. We shared with him our objectives of the journey. Mr. Kamal enlightened us about the Malays' hard work to establish themselves on a foreign land. He himself has been there for almost 30 years, after his family migrated to Western Australia from Christmas Island. 

 

Home is where the hospitality is.

The Imam of South Hedland, Tuan Haji Dhat Kalzee (whose house was next door to Mr. Kamal's), dropped by our host's backyard after being told about the visitors from Malaysia. We were indeed living Din's story (the one that inspired us to commence this visit) when Mr. Kamal extended a dear friend's invitation to his place. 

That evening, after Maghrib, Mr. Kamal's dear friend himself came to the former's house for a more formal invitation. My, he was handsomely attired in batik shirt and songkok, which reminded all of us to bring along our respective traditional attires when we travel in a group to other places next time. Just in case any occasion requires us to don them. 

At Mr. Joe & Mrs. Sarina's place.

At Mr. Joe's place, his wife, sister-in-law, and good friend (namely Mrs. Sarina, Mrs. Lina, and Mrs. Rose) had cooked up a feast! My favourite was the asam pedas and the mini chocolate bars served for dessert. Perfect for the chilly evening. 

Again, we immediately felt at ease with our new friends. Mrs. Sarina, on behalf of the others, recounted to Aiza, Din's elder sister, how they first met her brother and his friends at the hypermarket they were working at, invited them for a dinner to introduce them to the rest of their respective family members, and became close friends since then. Mrs. Sarinah even helped them to launder their clothes. That, aside from almost daily home-cooked meals. Aiza then told us that she was going to migrate there. What a merry dinner.

Us.

Thank you to our dinner co-hosts, Mr. Joe & Mrs. Sarina, Mr. Omar & Mrs. Lina, and Mr. Suhaimi & Mrs. Rose for the lovely evening. Our appreciation for Mr. Kamal, too, for introducing us to his amazing friends. We had a little something for their keepsakes, but, the friendship they offered us was more precious, more memorable. 

We went back to Mr. Kamal's house at midnight with the next day's breakfast, thanks (yet again) to our dinner co-hosts. 

No, we can't thank them enough.