Rusted

 Confidence inspiring equipment as soon from the finger between plane and terminal. 

Hideout - Cove 55

 

Cove 55 in Kuching was yet again a phantastic place to spend the weekend. Located just about 15 Km outside the city of Kuching, there is not much going on to disturb the peace and quiet. We had the pool to ourselves and a blast on our balcony, chatting the night away. I even managed to get a LILLLLL bit of sunburn going. 

Christmas Tree is Up

 

I have put up my inflatable mini Christmas tree. Like every year. And like every year, it has been the source of ridicule. Nevermind, I can take it! I like the practicality of this thing as I just deflate it in a few days and then put it "in storage". ;-)  

Borneo's Cultural Heritage

 

When in Kuching, a visit to the Sarawak Cultural Village is a must! As we were staying nearby, this attraction was one of the main events of our recent weekend trip. In total, there are 14 different houses that make up the village. Each house represents the style and living conditions of one of the tribes found in Borneo. Many of these tribes used to be head hunters and there is a bit about that to learn at the village too. 

One has to appreciate that the houses are built as authentic as they could be. Which means that some have rather steep ladders made from tree trunks. Some tribes used to live in mountainous areas, which means that their houses are built into hills and thus, these ladders make for an adventurous ascend. Each house will have some demonstration or performance to explain a little about the culture of each tribe. 

Rather educational overall and certainly well worth the money. In particular, the live performance is worth it. A number of traditional dances are performed with some background about what they mean. 

Meanwhile, I am now also a semi-professional headhunter after my apprenticeship with this hunter:

Masking up? Again? Uhm...

 

It appears that a Covid variant is rather rampant again. We have been asked to use facemasks in order to spread the virus. 

Fine! BUT! Since the pandemic, many (I wish I could confirm all, but I am not malling enough) shopping malls have opted to dismantle their motion sensors for the doors and to use these buttons instead. Yeah, great! Now everyone dashing out of the toilet not washing their hands will fumble around with this. There is no sanitiser in sight, never ever have I seen anyone giving these buttons a wipe. Great news for viruses I guess. I am applying a different tactic: I wait for someone else to manage this so I don't have to touch these petri dishes.

Meanwhile, the hand sanitiser is also a rare appearance at the immigration counters of the airport. There I would have to place my fingers on a scanner to have my finger prints taken. Needless to say that there would at any given time been hundreds of others placing their fingers there....

Here I was, remembering two year's worth of articles telling me not to touch surfaces as that is where the Covid lurks. 

I Know Where it is!

 

Trying something different, we headed to a Mexicans place near the office on Friday after work. Despite being called an Undisclosed Location, it is easy to find and to our surprise, there is even ample parking space. Food is somewhat of a different take on the traditional dishes. 

The Brontaco was a bit of a surprise that had us giggling for a bit. First time we tried Mezcal, which is similar to Tequila, but very different altogether. Recommended as a long drink. 

Visiting ISUZU Plaza

Opened in 2017 as part of the celebrations of the 80^th anniversary of the establishment of ISUZU Motors, ISUZU Plaza opened next to the Fujisawa plant as a museum and showcase of the brand’s philosophy and future plans. It is obviously a must-visit for any truck enthusiast visiting Tokyo.

History
To understand the current philosophy of the brand, one would need to understand the heritage of the product and the surrounding area. Having left an imprint on the vehicles, the history of the city of Fujisawa is equally important. The entrance area of the ISUZU Plaza offers educational exhibits to provide the background to the brand behind the trucks and buses.

ISUZU Vintage Collection
Stepping back in time, visitors will be able to get up close to the iconic trucks that ISUZU has produced in the past. Among the collection of vintage vehicles is a Wolseley CP, the first ever truck manufactured by ISUZU. Scattered throughout the museum are other vintage vehicles, engines and other artefacts telling the story of the brand.

Truck Manufacturing
A strong emphasis is placed on the production capability of ISUZU. A highlight is a miniature model of the production line, which allows visitors to see what an assembly line for commercial vehicles looks like. Together with the miniature diorama and interactive booths, like the spray paint station, let the visitor gain an understanding of how the parts come together and make transportation work.

Take-away
Besides knowledge and understanding gained from the visit to the ISUZU Plaza, one can take home souvenirs and practical items from the merchandise shop. An assortment of toys, tools and quirky items can be obtained. Collectors may find interesting model trucks and buses to add to their inventory.

THE highlights of the visit could well be the miniature diorama and the fact that guides speaking impeccable English make the visit a memorable one.

Getting there

IMPORTANT: A reservation two days in advance may be required. Check website https://www.isuzu.co.jp/world/plaza/ before you go.

You can get to the ISUZU Plaza by train. Get off at the Shonandai station on Odakyu Enoshima Line, Sotetsu Izumino Line or Yokohama Munincipal Subway Blue Line. A free shuttle bus is available from Shonandai station. On foot, it is an easy walk of about 900 meters.

Godzilla Minus One: Upping the Game in Filmmaking

Galivanting around Tokyo, I found myself wondering about Shinjuku. With a bit of time on my hands, I headed to the Toho Cinema where Godzilla Minus One was playing in a variety of versions. With versions, I am referring to audio-visual experiences. For the first time, I got to experience a movie in 4D. Means, you sit on a bench, similar like a fun fair ride, strobes and air vents in arm rests. With the visuals, the bench moves, pitches and jerks, in sync with what is happening on the screen. Air or little sprays of water being pumped your way make for an "immersive" experience. 

As for the movie. Well, it is Godzilla. As a fan of the King of Monsters, one kinda knows what will go down. I ended up with the enhanced audio and visual, but sans English subtitles. The entire movie was in Japanese. 

However.

This must have been one of only a handful movies you can watch without understanding a word and still know what is going on. It is also a movie that engrosses you from the first to the last of 122 minutes. There isn't a boring moment. Slow, yes. But never boring. And the slow bits are needed to build tension and they simply make sense. There isn't much bombast as one might find in the Hollywood interpretations. This Godzilla movie is labelled as the scariest of the series and half way through, one will know why. Oh yeah! Gojira is BACK! 

As widely reported, the movie was made with a relatively small budget. It has since grossed a lot of money. I am only afraid that it will not get the recognition it deserves internationally. Yes, it is a Japanese setting, but it is very much like any movie about the attack on Pearl Harbor would be set in the US. 

Going to see it again when it shows here in Malaysia. 

Walking in Shanghai

We hit the ground running in Shanghai. It was perfect weather for explorations. A bit of research told us that the French Concession is THE place to check out. With beautifully restored heritage buildings, tree-lined roads and lots to see, this was a perfect day out. 

Jacqueline had her first ever mulled wine. I could not have been happier with the concoction that https://www.instagram.com/boxingcatbrewery/?hl=en put out. That cinnamon and orange was the perfect addition to the drink and it tasted just right for a second. And third. 

I skip the pictures from the Bund (at night). There are plenty out there. Instead, I offer the view from the club lounge of The Westin. On a whim, we changed the hotel to be closer to the Bund and this was the perfect location and hotel. They added a promo for the club lounge and that was totally worth it. Rooms were moderately sized, but extra cozy and also very smartly designed. Bathtub! Yah!

How Did They do It?

We went back to Mudtrekkers for a round of Paintball. This is me after only 2 sessions. Each one lasting max 7 mins, but typically, a game is over much faster. This got me thinking: how did soldiers manage during WWII out here. We had fans and this was just a fun outing. Soaked through and panting, I could not help but admire what it might have taken to fight in jungle settings back then. Also, them paint balls HURT (don't look to closely where I got hit). 

Day Trip to Hakone

 

Just 2 hours out of Tokio one will find Hakone, a rather picturesque part of Japan where there is a lot to see and do. Historically, this part of Japan used to be a thoroughfare for trade and along the old routes one will find a lot of infrastructure that would have supported businesses back in the days. Tour guides will typically explain all that, including the issue with stations being set up to control the movement of weapons into Tokyo (Should have paid more attention to the details I guess). 

A must-see is the Lake Ashi, which is a caldera lake and resort area with boat tours, hot springs, accommodation and with a bit of luck views of Mt Fuji. Around the lake one will find a number of interesting activities: cable cars, hot springs, shopping, local food stuffs and shrines. If your everyday ferry is too boring, you can try a swan-shaped pedal boat or you join Jack Sparrow over there.

A quick ride on a cable car will deposit holidaymakers and scientists at the visitors center perched on the rim of the still "active" volcano. Sulphur smoke is billowing out from the soil and one can only hope for strong winds to blow the stinky clouds away. A surreal landscape, invites creativity with your toys you bring along...

Then you have an egg-flavoured soft ice cream and head back to Tokyo for some more delicious food!

A Vineyard in Thailand?

 

When in Thailand, one SHOULD visit Hua Hin. The seaside town always had a special place in my heart and it was just the obvious choice for a trip with friends to stay a few days. Besides the other attractions, the nearby Monsoon Valley Vineyard sounded like a promising locale. 

If you are a bit puzzled, fret not as we also thought that this is a bit unusual. Not that I am a sommelier of sorts, but I was always under the impression that wine needs a different climate. However, the wines produced by this boutique vineyard are refreshing and surely on par with with the grapes we would normally consume. Elevated, the restaurant offers a stunning view and a cooling breeze. 

The restaurant serves up not only their own products by the glass or bottle, but also yummy Thai food to fill the tummy. Those interested in learning about wine can book a tour; those interested in Elephants may splurge on food for them. The Elephant conservation is Monsoon Valley's CSR initiative. 

With just an hour driving time from Hua Hin, this stop should be on the agenda of anyone heading down the coast along the Gulf of Thailand. 

The Shirt: The Star

 

What an exciting event that was! WhiskyPLUS on 9 September goes down as a success in my books as I managed to add bottles to my collection that I had been eying for some time. 

And they put me in the promo video!

Next up is the first WhiskyPLUS Penang edition since 2019. This event will be held on Saturday, November 25th at the beautiful Wembley St. Giles Hotel in the heart of Georgetown.

Get into the Cove

A short hop across the water, still being a domestic flight away, Kuching beckons as a getaway where travellers step into a legend-laden history. Laid back, yet highly developed, Kuching makes for an highly efficient entry point for a weekend stay. Cove 55 is situated north of the City, a mere 40 minutes’ drive from the International airport. The time puts a lot of distance between the hectic of big cities and the serene surroundings of this boutique hotel. A drastic change in the scenery occurs once the city limits have passed and one is washed over by a sense of tranquillity; with each passing kilometre, the desire to head back is diminishing as one is engulfed by nature.

The clever architecture of Cove 55 immediately becomes clear upon arrival. The property is concealed from the street and a Grab driver may easily miss the entrance. Mangroves have been cleverly incorporated to shield guests from views from the outside as well as blocking what little noise is left from the road that never seems to get busier than a few vehicles gliding by. The lobby, which feels like a living room not only functions as the welcome centre, but also as a library. The system of a book exchange is encouraged here with many good reads up for grabs. If the entrance to Cove 55 had a theme song, it would be Belinda Carlisle’s “La Luna”, in which a woman who fell in love with a man she met and spent romantic moments with under the moonlight. They were walking, talking, and laughing.

With only 28 rooms and a generous layout, Cove 55 is whispering serenity. Off to the right are the Mangrove villas whereas the main house is home to the balcony and garden rooms. This exclusivity ensures that the place never looks busy or overcrowded. Guests disperse into various activities and thus one hardly gets to meet others. The villas, built on stilts are tucked away into the mangroves which act as screens as well as setting the mood. Suddenly, it is getting very quiet, the stress left at the airport. With the backdrop of Mount Suntobong to the West and the sea to the East, Cove 55 is wedged between a strip of the most dramatic landscape. The breeze from the sea cools it down, letting guests forget that one also sits on the Equator.

After an uncomplicated and swift check-in, one can don the hat of an explorer by discovering the spacious and luxurious rooms. Mangrove Villas come with a deck, at the back of the room, where lounge chairs offer relaxation amidst the trees. Ocean View Pool Villas have decks facing the sea and a private plunge pool. The Mangroves are abuzz, soothingly providing the background sound for a tranquil getaway. The layout of the villas is functional, yet generous in the use of space. Much thought was given to the bathroom, which many will find very inviting to run a bath, light some candles and maybe have a glass of wine while soaking.

Nestled at the foot of Mount Suntobong, Cove 55 makes for an epic background for photos. Something that couples celebrating their wedding at Cove 55 can surely weave into their stories about their decision on why they picked this place. Suntobong, as it is commonly referred to, is inevitably mentioned by any local that one talks to about a trip to Kuching. According to the legend, Putri Santubong (Princess Suntubong) and her cousin Putri Sejinjang were sent from the heavens to pacify two villages. The two managed their respective communities in peace and harmony until Putri Santubong fell in love with a handsome prince.

Some may comment that Sarawak may not have as nice beaches as Sabah. However, Cove 55 offers a pool that leaves nothing to wish for for those that want to take a dip. Also built on stilts, the infinity pool truly lives up to that description. Its elevation and colour scheme make it appear as if there is no break between the pool and the open sea. The pool’s size is also remarkable: with 30 meters is it longer than many hotel pools. Sipping cocktails, lounging in the gazebos around the pool one may yet again be immersed by tranquillity: as guests disperse into activities, there may not be too many people sharing the pool at anyone time and a young couple may find themselves all alone frolicking in the refreshing waters. Built over the water, the pool is having the crashing waves as a soundtrack, making it a unique experience of being in a calm pool with the natural sound of the ocean. Cove Bar offers thirst quenching drinks. Guests are encouraged to sample the local brews for a truly Sarawakian experience.

Once the sun dropped itself behind Mount Suntubong, a fat moon hanging over the sea, it is time for a good night’s sleep. Being near the equator, the moon appears bigger. It is the type of nights where you want to walk barefoot through the grass with the stars in the clear sky watching. The sun rises over the open sea, making for the most dramatic sunrise. This event is best watched from the pool and is more than satisfying, considering that one has to get up earlier than when going to work. One would only wish that Cove Bar would supplement this with some bubbles.

The inhouse restaurant, Kechala, is reminiscent of old colonial charm. Kechala offers al fresco ambience as well as indoor sitting, whereby the latter transports you into yet another space, making it feel as if you had stepped away from the hotel. An open kitchen offers a clean and uncluttered menu which offers something for every taste. The mix of Asian and European cuisine is focused on quality. One should be prepared to be surprised as the German head chef is trying to put his own tasty spin on the dishes. Waitstaff may recommend the latest addition to the drinks menu, mild sparkling Tuak. Tuak is a Sarawakian rice wine, which is a must-try. Breakfast is served in Kechala as well, whereby the concept is to order a “main” and supplement it with pastry, fruits, and other delectable foods from the buffet. In tune with Oasis’ Champagne Supernova, one may order just that to go along with the Big Breakfast.

Sarawak is known for seafood and guests of Cove 55 are encouraged to try some of the fares offered by nearby restaurants. One such place is adjacent to the hotel and while you could walk, Cove 55 offers a car to drive guests over. Besides this, Cove 55 can also arrange day trips to the nearby attractions, such as the animal sanctuaries where visitors can get up close with Orang Utans. Recently, a private nine-hole golf course was added to the portfolio.  Besides additional activities, those planning to spend time in Cove 55 are advised to check in advance about availabilities as the property can be fully booked. Events typically take up not only the event hall and invite participants to just stay. The property offers airport transfers for guests’ convenience. When the car’s tyres crunch some pebbles in the driveway, heading to the airport, it is “Never Really Over” by Katy Perry that one hears.

Grammar Matters (!)

 

Parents should be terrified! Someone is feeding this to frozen children!

The Pulled Pork Experience

 

Might be the stuff of legends, stories told at family gatherings and whispered to neighbors. Here I am at 4:00 (yes! that is a.m.), packing the grill with a charcoal snake in preparation of dinner some 14 hours later. The meat went on at 6:00, and sat in 110 Deg C for over 12 hours before resting 90 minutes to settle. The trusted Weber Master Touch kept the temperature constant throughout the day, requiring just very little supervision. Highly recommended in this situation are the Weber briquettes as they burn forever with a solid heat output. Normally, the coal should snake 3/4 around the grill for 12 hours of heat. The Weber charcoal barely made it half round and we could put some unburned ones back. This was a bit less hectic than a normal BBQ as we just lit the grill and walked away, just adding water in a tray under the meat every 3 hours. 

Enough about the Grill. What you all came here for is the insights into how the meat was prepared. We ordered 3.3 Kg of pork shoulder butt. This was soaked in root beer for 36 hours, complete with rosemary and (lots of garlic). Drained, the rub came on. After the rub got on, the meat sat for another 24 24 hours before it finally went onto the grill. We decided to keep the fats on and the meat in a aluminum tray with foil to cover it. While we did not get crackling, we had the fat rendering, soaking the meats, keeping them juicy. The pulled pork from such a piece is enough for 10 persons eating. 

Recommended side: Cigar and peated Whisky

We have to do this again. So satisfying the result, considering that there is not much "work" involved. Also, cleaning the grill was quick and easy. Just a bit of soot to be rinsed off. 

Re-Launchpad-ed

The website sat idle for a long time, starting to come apart. I was aware of the implications as this asset started to age and it looked neglected.

So we put it through a renovation and here it is, again: www.launchpad.com.my

Some small adjustments might still be needed; these will come in the next couple of days.

Oh! Hallo there

 Another trusty kitchen tool!

Juicy Details

 

I made a snap decision to add this Cilio (Professional) Juicer to the household. Since June, it has been in use every day, sometimes several times. I really like the way it operates and how sturdy it is. The beauty lies in its simplicity and, admittedly, in the looks. Would not have gotten it in the plain stainless steel version as that looks bland. Easy to clean, great juice extraction and eventually, personalization as the copper will develop its own patina. 

My breakfast, besides the toast, includes the juice of a lemon. In the evening I now have grapefruit juice, orange juice or when I accidentally mix them up a graporange juice. 

Who would have thought that I might get excited over a kitchen appliance one day???

Sign & Language

"Don't make fun of someone that speaks bad English. It means that they speak another language too" - There is a lot of good stuff in this motto. However, I think when you put some important notice into a public space or if you want to highlight a social issue that deserves seriousness, a little effort goes a long way. It cannot be THAT hard to find someone that can just look at some short text to say "I know what you are trying to say, but this needs a correction." Here are some examples which made me giggle though.

After the Essence of Chicken, now the 

 United we stand:

I read that only guys shake the fuel hose once the filling process is done. So even in the wrong place, this makes sense (Please replace the nozzle to the pump):

View from the Top

Big cities, anything that one would call a metropolis, invite to be explored from above. I have mentioned rooftop bars a few times and I couldn't hold back when we had the chance to visit Sky 51 on top of the newly (ok, relatively) opened Equatorial Hotel. 

I would say that they picked the best direction to point the bar as one has an unobstructed view of the highlights of the skyline. Drinks were tasty and the buffet on the occasion had something interesting for everyone. A good time was had by everyone and we enjoyed a chat with the GM of the property, who was clearly enjoying the renewed excitement about the hotel after it has been rebuild in some 4 (?) years. 

Not so sure about that staircase. Need to find out what is up there... 

Cruising into the Sunset

 

I have been on boats, ferries and rubber dinghies. However, this was my first time cruising on a Tall Ship. Apparently, there are only 100 in the world left, typically cargo ships, and most are owned by governments. However, https://www.tallship.com.sg/ is a privately owned Tall Ship that has been converted into an amazing venue for dinner cruises or themed parties, corporate events. It is also unique venue for a marriage proposal. 

We opted for the City Lights cruise, which took us out of Sentosa and around the southern part of Singapore. As the name suggests, the view of Singapore's skyline is the highlight! 

As the Royal Albatross is a fairly large boat, roaming around is a lot of fun, offering many different angles to snap photos. A buffet spread prepared below decks, complimented with chilled beverages! The waters around Singapore are usually very calm, except for when a ferry speeds by, thus it is not too much work keeping your food and drinks in place on your table. One might be afraid of getting seasick, but since the vessel has a deep keel, it sits rather stable on the waters. 

Highly recommended for anyone that would want a romantic getaway or to see Singapore in a different light. Tune back in for our sequel "Pirates of the Johor Straits"!

Waze is better than Google Maps is better than Waze

 

So Waze is asking me to walk 41 minutes around town to get to a place that is a straight shot down an alley with no obstructions and Google Maps suggests a sightseeing trip off the main street.

Sometimes (quiet often) actually, I drive around the planet to get to a place, but I get there without help. Might still be faster than following these two apps. 

Some Rules are Hard to Follow

 

Snapped this in a mall over the weekend. Some of these rules make sense (No smoking is ok, since all malls are non-smoking here, so just an emphasis). Not canoodeling with pony-tailed girls in the washroom is questionable. 

However, not urinating in a toilet is a stretch even for a German, which would typically just follow orders...

Cheers! in Malaysia's oldest Bar / Pub

 

Ipoh is home of the fabled white coffee. And the bar / pub that currently holds the record as being the oldest in the country. The Sinhalese Bar is perched on the corner opposite Concubine Lane, which makes is a great spot to veer to when exploring the town centre. 

Step through the Cowboy Saloon doors and feel home in an instant: Friendly guests and staff will immediately engage in a conversation, adding you to the family of patrons. Have a cold beer, as advertised outside and kick back for a while as you step back into a time before fancy cocktails, dry ice effects and hipster juices. 

Cheers!

Day Trip to Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

 

Step back in time, get a different perspective! On the outskirts of Ipoh, Malaysia, one will find the Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village. From Kuala Lumpur, it takes just about two hours to drive there and it is easily accessible. 

Went on Saturday morning, the place is easy to find and very accessible. The free parking is a plus. 

And it is a tremendous amount of fun, totally worth the admission fee! The "village" offers a glimpse into the days past of Malaysia, highly informative and entertaining. Luckily, it is not as stiff and formal as a museum. 

With the various examples of cultural heritage scattered around, it also becomes highly "interactive" as one gets to experience how things work, for instance pulling a rikshaw. One has to bring the inner child to have fun though. 

 

Learned Nothing

 

(Original picture taken by me while on the way to work. This is on Federal Highway heading towards KLCC. We were all stuck in a jam, so my car wasn't moving at the time of the snap)

Apparently, the pandemic has allowed us to re-evaluate some things. The spread of the Corona virus was to be stemmed by taking simple precautions. Here I find myself wondering about this as I observe:

- People standing so close to me when they line up for anything that they are competing with my clothes for skin contact

- Food sellers don't wear masks. Their customers do. I already have a small issue with the vendors handling money, then the produce, then scratch their behind, smoke while they hover over the goods....

- What is it with these buttons we now have to press to open doors instead of motion sensors? 

- A nearby supermarket sells frozen beef / lamb / chicken cubes. There are thongs to handle the meats. Of course, some fella is in the freezer, up to his shoulders and grappling EVERY single bit of frozen meat with his bare hands....

- Rubbish everywhere, of the mask type. Since when is it ok to just throw your used face mask into the street. Oh wait, yes, we like a good flooding and clogging up the drains will help. 

Final Check

These are the Ozalids for the latest issues of Asian Trucker and Asian Buses. These are print-outs, in two formats, on different paper. This is to show the colours of the final print (Let's not get too technical as I know that there will be differences with the print is going to be on the actual paper etc) and to find the last tiny mistakes. 

Even though we look at the material over and over, we still find the nastiest mistakes only in the print-out. Bizarrely, one does not "see" the mistakes when looking at a PDF. 

Once each of these pages is checked, they are signed and send back to the printer. And that marks the start of the actual printing process of the magazines. It is also always a very elating feeling as this concludes the work on one issue, whereby each is unique, with a lot of heart and soul injected. It is also the starting point for the creation of the next issues. 
 

Unusual Menu Items

 

Ended up in a small town near to the Taman Negara national park. During Ramadan, the best bet is to steer to Chinese restaurants before 6pm to have dinner. Many other places might be closed or are extremely busy with those waiting to break their fast during their festive month (We found McDonalds closed during lunch. We assume a lack of customers during this time). 

Apparently, the Fish Lips Soup is a thing. One would cut off the lips, dry them, then make soup with it, adding other ingredients. We were later told that this restaurant was once famous for Monkey Head Soup. Well, they could keep that, no interest. Same goes for Sharkfin Soup. Personally, never understood the hype about it as it is a dish that you HAVE to add vinegar to in order to give it some taste. 

Among the other, rather delicious, dishes we had was the coconut flower soup. Something never seen before, but stunningly nice:

You Better not Run Through the Jungle

 

Back in Secondary School we would learn about rainforests and how they are vital for the planet as the source of Oxygen, our lungs so to say. We read about the largest ones to be around the Amazonas and in Malaysia. I have been to the jungle in Malaysia before, but this time it was a different part, a different landscape. 

Taman Negara is a vast national park in Malaysia on the Malay peninsula. It encompasses a sprawling tropical rainforest that's said to be 130 million years old. The tourist brochure recommends a different route in, while we started off from a small town "nearby", called Jerantut. Amazing place that, one of these surprising little places that wow you with great food and interesting sights. 

What an amazing ride. 200 Km through the rainforest. At 7am, we had fog like this. The entire stretch is just mall roads, one curve after the other. There are a lot of bumps and in places, parts of the road had been washed away. It was SUPER silent as the forest and fog muffles everything. One leg we drove for 1 hour and there was not another vehicle! The setting and atmosphere reminded of the 1977 movie Sorcerer. 

Most of the other vehicles on the road (of which there were VERY few) are timber jinkers. Getting into these camps is something else as there are no roads. The drivers of these trucks will carry the timber all over Malaysia, sometimes only coming home to see their family once in 2 weeks. We went past houses, schools and clinics in the middle of nowhere. Not a supermarket in sight. Or a petrol station. It seems that one would have to fill the tank every time one goes to town. 

An abandoned burger stall served as a marker to slow down to stop at the Bukit Awan, the Cloud Hill. At around 8:30, there was nothing but fog. Sadly, people that use this rest stop just litter and there was a lot of rubbish strewn around in this otherwise nicely placed and constructed viewpoint. The view was magnificent once the fog lifted in the late morning. We stopped many times to snap pictures, plug some flowers. Even with no traffic, the roads are quiet demanding as they are narrow. Overtaking trucks is an adventure and buffalo grazing might just lumber onto the roads. 

Lots of the old Mercedes "911", the Short Nose, are still in operation around here, hauling timber. These trucks seem to be indestructible. And those that have exhausted their last Diesel still make for fantastic motifs for photos. Like these two. One can only wonder what these trucks have endured and how much cargo they have hauled in decades of service.