Malaysia

'Selamat Datang' or welcome as they say in Malaysia. Another memorable experience to share from the new and developed city of Kuala Lumpur to the beautiful and simple fishing Island of Pulau Pangkor.

Arriving in KL was smooth and easy after an eight hour flight on Malaysia Airlines. To my surprise, customs in Malaysia did not require filling any type of immigration card nor did the officers so much as bat an eye as I passed through the gates. I approached with caution and with the constant feeling of missing something, specifically that piece of paper most other countries require in order to let you in. Not here in Malaysia and I still can't tell you why. Nevertheless, entry was granted with a stamp and I was on my way to my hostel 'Number 8' as it's called. I chose Number 8 based on a recommendation from a local I met on a train from Los Angeles to San Diego some months ago. Choon and I had been communicating since, but sadly we were to miss each other by one day as he traveled back from France. He said to stay at Number 8 and that I wouldn't be disappointed, and he was right. The Hostel was clean and friendly, the staff generous and helpful. It was a nice base in the bustling city. Arriving late, I slept off my travels and awoke to toast and jam. I then hit the town on foot, then by monorail. I arrived at the Twin Towers, the pride of the nation and one of the tallest buildings in the world. The Towers stand majestically amidst the skyline in the heart of the city. They are stylish and have a skybridge connecting at level 41. They offer a free Skybridge tour with a video and ten minutes to scope the views of KL. Perplexed at anything free, I gladly asked for a ticket and was quite pleased with the tour. From there I walked to the KL tower another city landmark avoiding motorbikes and cars. By then it was mid afternoon and I was feeling the effects of a busy city day. I pondered my next move having a look at my guide. My eyes landing on Pulau Pangkor (Pangkor Island) situated off the coast of Perak. The description was that of the most beautiful islands with the best beaches on the western coast. I read the passage over and over until I had decided that is where I wanted to spend my next two days. I walked into a hotel lobby and asked the kind woman for some advice. She gave me precise directions for the bus to the town of Lumut and then a short walk to the Jetty where I could catch a boat to the Island. All that would eventually cost me 25 Ringgit one-way (just under $8) and would take 6 hours total. What a deal. I ran to the Hostel and asked for an early check out, which was granted with no fee. I then taxied to the bus station confirming the ticket for 8:30am the following morning. The travel bug had struck in full effect. I spent the rest of the evening in KL walking the streets in a daze of amazement for how life is conducted in other parts of the world. The feeling of gratitude upon me as I thought of the comforts of home and how blessed I am to live where I do.

I arrived Pangkor just as I was directed and taxied to the community of Teluk Nipah where I had heard of secluded beaches and natural beauty. I was immediately pleased to find not one local trying to direct me to a lodge, sell me a snorkel trip or ask me where I had come from. Very unusual from other experiences in similar environments. I walked at my own pace asking a few lodges for pricing and availability the latter a silly question considering the Island was virtually empty. I chose my place just off the beach and proceeded to explore the Island by Motorbike just 7 Ringgit ($2/ hour). I rode around the Island taking in views of the natural environment and wild monkeys. I had left my camera, which saddened me. When would I see wild monkeys again? To my great fortunate I had a run in on the beach the following day. Returning I indulged in some local food snacking on prawn fried rice and later fried noodles and soup. I retired to my room and looked forward to continuing the easy life with a nice sleep. The following day was going to be a rough one consisting of swimming, reading, writing, taking photos and eating more tasty meals. Life was tough.

Short but sweet, my time in Pangkor came to an end and I returned back to KL. I await my flight to India where I will eventually see my beautiful Sister Tami and her dear friend Jodi; both leading a 10 day yoga retreat.
Pictures of Malaysia will be posted soon. All my love, Fadi