Oh Para Para-Dise Ey Ey Ey

To quote from Beyond's song, this is how I would describe Palawan. Ok, maybe I should stop over-using the word 'Paradise', else it'll soon from 'Hot' to 'Not' from the over-publicity. But how else can you describe an amazing place, easily the most beautiful beaches/islands/landscape I've been to. Yes, the place is El Nido in Palawan Philippines. So much better than Halong Bay in Vietnam (similar concept but the plus point is it's fresher here, less crowded and alot more bigger in scale & awesomeness).

Expect a long blog post here, I will try NOT to spare any details cos the place deserves much more than the photos posted here, even more than the videos posted in the previous post! You have to experience it in person to absorb in the beauty. Photos can only capture that split second frozen frame, but in person, u really get to breathe in the freshness of the sea breeze, admire the beauty of the landscape & formations and slowly be enchanted by the magical allure of El Nido. I've heard people spending weeks and weeks in El Nido, and you'll think 'Why the hell would people spend weeks here, only in this place? It's only a coastal area, what are you doing here for weeks?'. Only after I've been there did I realize the charm of El Nido, the magical spell it casts on all visitors. It becomes obvious and comprenhensible that people will fall in love with this place! Just spend a few more days, lazing by the beach, doing nothing, and slowly you'll realize 1 week has passed by easily and followed by a few more weeks! This is how enchanting this place is! And the plus point is it's still not overcrowded with throngs of tourists (which kinda spoils the beauty of a peaceful place) so for now, this is perfect!

Ok, more of El Nido praising later on. Lest you think I was only in El Nido, you're wrong. The itinery was Puerto Princesa-Sabang-El Nido-Coron. And the longest time spent was in El Nido and I would say those days were the HIGHLIGHT of the trip!!! Yup we spent 7 days in El Nido, easily 7 days and it didnt even seem that long!

Has the introduction ignited your interest in knowing what happened during the 2 weeks and how fantastic those 2 weeks were? I hope it did cos here goes nothing -

Palawan Unfolded and Retold

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What do you do when you've quit your job, and waiting to be 'enlisted' into your new job, with 2 weeks of downtime?

- Stay at home and catch up on movies/TV shows etc? Meet up with friends (lucky if they're free during weekdays)? Spring cleaning your room and tidy up your stuff? Read up on your new company and learn about your new job (sounds very interesting isnt it)? Absolutely do nothing and enjoying doing nothing? -

Or maybe pick a location, buy a ticket and fly there for a short holiday?!?! Knowing me for who I am, this was the obvious option for me, although at some point, I was contemplating just doing nothing at home cos I was a little tired of trying to plan something within a short period of time (<2weeks to be precise). Choosing the right location and right activities to fit into 2 weeks is not an easy task cos you have to fit the itinery so perfectly that you get to do what you want within the short time span and make it back in time.

So luckily for me, my lucky star came in the form of Welsh boy Mr Max Davies whom I knew from my Mulu Trip!! He has been travelling within SEA since March and will be in Philippines some time before my last day at work and it seemed like perfect timing to meet up with him in Philippines to do some travelling together! It's always nice to have a companion and someone to share ideas and plan together. Saves me the trouble to racking my brain for locations and activities.

Lo and Behold, I was looking at Palawan being a possible destination and when he suggested Palawan as well, and departing on the 1st day of my freedom, I jumped on that opportunity! How perfect has this turned out! The place I've been looking at, the place Pinoys have said 'Must Go', and at the exact date I'm free to travel! Not 1 minute wasted, the day after my last day at work, off for vacation!

So 2 days before the departure date, I booked my flight to Manila and the internal flight to Puerto Princesa (starting point of the trip) and got down to business. Packing needs to be done (not excessive, afterall it's a beach vacation!), supplies need to be purchased (some), grooming and preparation to be settled! Haha, beach vacay = sun, sand, sea, bikinis, beach babes & hunks! No lah, i didnt go into demonic training to achieve the perfect beach bod (where got time!) but my regular gymming session + swimming + yoga had already equipped me with the necessary physique to boast :) Anyway, I did my packing on the night before I flew off (like I always do) and went to bed dreaming about my Paradise!

Early next morning on the 25th May, off to the airport for the 1st flight out to Manila. All excited and eager to go, only to encounter my 1st almost detrimental road block - That You require a return ticket from Philippines before you're allowed to fly to Philippines!! Damn! I was never told that! It was not required for any other countries (as far as I know, I was never asked for a return ticket!!) But at the counter, it was made known that it was mandatory and I was not allowed check in until I purchase one! So now you know, I had not purchased a return flight when I booked my flight to Manila. No, not that I envision myself not coming back (then again, who knows what was actually going in deep down in my subconcious mind), I just did not know WHEN i'll be flying back. I thought i could buy my return ticket a few days before I decide on the actual date and time but apparently it doesnt work in Philippines. DAMN! So panic as I was with 40mins before the flight departs, I had to quickly search for a flight back on the last possible date and booked it. It was a mad frantic rush cos early morning all lines are busy and processing was slow. The counter gal was also anxious, trying to make the cut-off time for check in and looking out for porter to check in my bag once my purchase was confirmed. With like 15mins to go before flight departs, I managed to buy my ticket, had my bag rushed into check in and blasted through immigrations for my flight. What a relief man! It was really like live or death situation. I really almost couldnt make it for my flight, and that would have been really bad cos I would NOT make it for my connecting flight (then again, as u read on, I may make it anyway). They should have told us travellers when we buy ticket that a return is required! It would have saved me the heartache, panic, nervousness and just plain shock!

Anyway I arrived in manila international airport and had to transfer to the domestic airport which is like a distance away and even though there's supposed to be a shuttle bus between terminals, I think it's a scam! Cos the shuttle seems to NOT be running and the people there would just ask you to take a cab. Thinking that I'm pressed for time with 90mins before my flight departed, I took the cab (it's not expensive for a 15mins ride) and when I reached the domestic terminal, I was greeted with a terribly long Q at the check in counter for the notorious Zest Air! Quick scan of the Q spotted Max and jumped next to him! Poor boy juz got off an overniter bus with nary a wink of a sleep. Just when we were done checking in, torrential downpour started and we just went 'Ah Oh', cos raining is no good for flights, especially in Philippines. So there we were, sitting in the departure lounge waiting for our 3.30pm flight which just never seemed to take off....

And waited and waited and waited until 6.30pm when FINALLY the call for Zest Air to Puerto Princesa was made!! Cobwebs were starting to form on us! After a 1hr peaceful flight, we reached Puerto close to 8pm and proceeded to Banwa Art House on a Tric. We were quoted 100P (1SGD = 32P) per pax for the ride, which we bargained down to 50P per ride, locals looking to bank in cash from tourists..... After check in, with stomaches growling from hunger, we went in search for dinner only to be less than satisfied with some local dish...

Next morning F&E in Puerto while Max went to renew his visa. Well, if you don't have time, don't stay in Puerto. It's really more of a stopping point for more fantastic destination up north (or down south). It's just a small town with nothing much going on. We slept in till late and wondered round the town and back to the hostel early and prepare to embark on our trip to Sabang the next morning.

Woke up early to catch the 7am jeepney to Sabang (200P per pax), but we just barely made it (reached bus terminal like 3mins before it departed) all thanks to Max checking online on Mozzies (perpetually 'obsessed' with Mozzies) Surprisingly, the 2hrs ride to Sabang was rather smooth, not like what the book said about being bumpy and dirt road etc (well the book was written in 2009). We thought we could get an early permit to visit Unesco World Heritage Underground River but alas, all early permits were sold out and only 3.30pm was available. Note: Next time, buy the permit early in Puerto before heading to Sabang. They have an office there. Lucky for us, we were staying overnight in Sabang so it didnt really matter. But Damian, Swiss traveller, was there for day trip so he had to source for a van to take him back to Puerto. (Last official trip back to Puerto was at 2pm, after which you'll have to find private tourist van to take you back at higher cost)

We stayed at Green Verde, managed to bargain the price down from 600P to 450P SWEET!! Nice quiet beach @ Sabang. We were with Brad & Veronica (from Puerto and whom Max met from Donsol) and also Damian and Holly (Minnesota), went for a swim in the sea and waited for our 330pm trip. Then it started to pour once again (Monsoon season....) We opted for the boat ride to the entrance of the cave (100P each pax) if it were not raining, it would be good to walk the 5km to the entrance.

Sabang Beach



Short boat ride, 200P for the permit and we started our Underground River expedition.

You see many limestone formations from melted candles, to Mary, to Church, to Vegetables to Holy Family... Quite nice though the ride was abit short, guess it was cos we were the last group.

Imagine paying 1,500P for an organized trip when it only cost you 200P for one-way transport from Puerto to Sabang (400P for return), 200P for permit & 100P for boat ride (or FOC if you walk). Add about 300P for lunch and you only add up to 1,000P!! Overcharged by 500P!! That 500P pays for a night's accomodation in Sabang!!

Tiring day makes for good sleeping as we just basically zoned out straight after dinner. Nxt morning we took a private van (1,000P each) to El Nido with Brad & Veronica and Amit & Alice (Indian & French couple). A good 5.5 hours with the last stretch of road being much more bumpier and worse for me cos I was right at the back. Had a pretty good bum massage after the ride! The view that greeted us right when we entered El Nido made all that bumpyness worthwhile!

El Nido, view just outside our cottage

Checked in to Chixlyk Cottage, a small cottage just by the beach! Yes we had a beach cottage for 600P per night (cheapest beachside cottage) Apparently, Monsoon season doesnt mean low-season as accomos were all expensive and not easy to find! We were lucky to get 600P cos the others were going for 900P and up! And we had a tree house just outside our cottage!

Our cottage, the one behind the tree house

What to do when you're staying by the beach?? Do nothing, laze around and go for a swim!! Precisely what we did the next day of F&E, laze around, source for diving trips and expedition and swam and suntan by the beach.

Officially started our activities on the 3rd day at El Nido with 3 dives (3,000P include equipments and lunch which is quite a steal). Diving in El Nido is not the best, marine life is ok, corals are all dead, but at least we saw a HUGE lobster and 2 fucking HUGE turtles. More exciting will be the next 3 days of island hopping expedition which we booked with lovely nhel (lady boy) for 4,000P each (hacked down from 5,500p). It will be like survivor (camping on secluded island). That night we started the 1st of many drinking session with Alina and Seb (who'll join us for the 3D2N expedition) till the wee hours. Before we got drunk, we had an interesting conversation with the Indian/French couple, mainly with Amit (the Indian) where he shared with us his interesting travel experiences (almost got eaten by Carnivores in Papau New Guinea, travelling to many exotic places). It was an interesting listen as he told the stories with a straight face while we were all like "Wow". That night, the 4 of us downed 2.5 bots of RUM (with coke). The result of all those booze? Max decided to free a chained monkey and ended up agitating it and it climbed onto his head!! Luckily he was not scratched, but damn it we didnt film the hilarious scene! Bloody hell, it was fucking HILARIOUS when the monkey just jumped on him!!!

So the adventure started at 830am (supposed to be 8) and didnt depart till close to 10am (when u're in philippines, get used to the time lag, although surprisingly, their scheduled bus/jeepney rides are very much on the dot).

Bright lovely morning, a surprise departure from the windy, rainy days earlier. Yes, the Monsoon is finally over!

Our team of 5 + Max as the photographer. My lovely green hat which was blown away

On our boat for the 3D, we had a team of 6 that requires abit of introduction:

-Brad & Veronica (He from australia, she from Canada, they met in London and will be moving to Australia after this trip)

- Seb & Alina, not a couple (He from Australia, the 1st RAW dieter I've ever met but drinks beer and rum which aren't exactly RAW, looks like Jesus has a zen-like attitude who's perpetually obsessed with Angie from TayTay; She from Romania but lives in Norway, the lady with a big and infectious laugh and an even bigger personality Love you)

- Max and I (My travel buddy, from Wales also known as Mad Max, Occupation: International Spy, been travelling around the world and started SEA since March, perpetual fascination with caves and any places with dark openings and holes, up to monkey business all the time what with climbing up rocks, trees, caves and anything he can get his grips, with the most amazingly HUGE appetite I've ever seen but with an almost OCD-like attitude over mozzies "Kill them All"; Me from Singapore. Period. No further explanation needed.)

So here goes the story of 6 travellers from different nations on a 3D2N expedition on secluded islands with our lovely hostess Nhel. You know what they say 'What happens on the island, stays on the island', but of course, some things can be shared while others are best to remain secret SHHHHHHHH

Let the few pictures do the talking now....

Our 1st stop - Hidden Lagoon, what a good way to start the expedition! You couldn't see the lagoon from outside, until the boat slowly meander its way through rocks into a small stream of water till you see LAND!! Amazing start! It was snorkelling time and the place was amazing (i realize that this word will be overused again and again but man, it is the most apt description)

Dear Seb on a rock...

Then it's time for lunch! Lest you think lunch will be a measely affair, a few grains of rice, some meat & maybe a few strands of vege. You're wrong!! Lunch was cooked onsite, grilled fish + chicken wings + salad+ heaps of rice+fruits! And the portions are big!! Loads of fish for just the 6 of us! And Delicious!! Easily the best meal we've had in Philippines! FYI, food in philippines NOT CHEAP & if you eat what the locals eat, the portions are pathetically small (tho cheap but i guess you pay for what you get). A meal like this above would have easily cost each person close to 400-500P, economic rice in Singapore is like what SGD4??

After a good feed, time for photos!! With food down our stomach, energy flows back to the brains and time for creative photo shoots!!!

The Great Bum Shot! We had alot of frames of the bum shot at different stages of readiness..Mad Max was voted the one with the whitest ASS

Thanks to Nhel who suggested a bum shot! The most brilliant idea EVER!! Yes, next time on a beach holiday, this is a MUST do shot! You only live once, and you're young only once! Do it when you can flaunt it! No need to be paiseh, anyway, nobody remembers you once you leave the place :) (I should have done a full naked back shot...Bloody hell regret now...Note to self: Next time at a secluded beach, do it...)

Never mess with Mad Max, he'll stab you with his spear gun

More snorkelling and stop overs followed. We even got a spear gun! Intention was to catch some fresh fish & grill them for dinner but apparently, the DIY spear gun was not tt user friendly...

Next stop was snake island (we may have stopped by other places but damn, i just can't remember all the names of the islands) so called as during low tide, there is a passage to walk across that kinda looks like a meandering snake...

Then it's time to search for our resting place! Our secluded island resort!!! Ala survivor style, we jumped into the water a distance away from land and swam towards LAND!!! It was a fun long swim but a nice way to welcome home...

The island only has 3 huts & a bathroom with no flowing water. Only the so-called housekeeper lives here but apparently no one was around when we were there, so we had the whole island to ourselves!!

That's our hut!!

The huts were pretty well built, sturdy, and we were provided with good mattresses, mozzie net (much to the delight of Max), warm blankets & thick towels! This will be our 5-star resort for the next 2 days!

Alina with her bright swimsuit! We did a couple of Sports Illustrated worthy shots (me as Photog)

The hair flinging shot, Brilliant!

While waiting for dinner, time for some R&R, beers & fun! Oh, in preparation of island camping, we bought 2 bots of RUM (bloody cheap 75P for 1 big bot of 80% concentration) and like countless bots of beer. Yes, island camping is the time to drink and be merry! A few drinks down the stomach and alot of miracle things happen.....

Another brilliant group shot with Boracay Rum!!

Couple of drinks down, and the fun begins!

Some how more well rested the 2nd day, it was time for more fun!! Where did we actually go? Can't really remember well. But we visited a cave (great cave much to the delight of Max who went exploring and scaling the rocks much to the shock of our guide who kept asking - where's the guy?)


Our last stop of the day was 7 commandoes beach so called cos 7 commandoes kena malaria some years ago when they stopped by this beach... And this was the place where we got edificated by Seb on the natural wonders of coconut!! The flesh is a good natural facial scrub and hair conditioner, the husk can be used as a floss, sand is a wonder scrub for the skin! We were all trying it out, having a ball of a time! I think it really works haha I felt my skin being reborned after the scrubbing :) And the day wouldn't end with some fun shots! Playing with the coconut..

What you do with coconut shell after drinking it...

Since it was our last night on the island, it's time for some BIG partying!!! All booze out, no hold backs! Tonight is the night to finish what we've brought and end it with a bang! Which was what we did! Everyone was totally knackered! We invited the crew to drink with us, and they brought their own RUM as well! By the end of the night, everything was kinda a blur. But of course, before we got too drunk, we took time out to admire the star-filled sky (i've never seen that many stars in the sky), fireflies filled trees (there were aplenty!) and plankton spotting!! They were glowing in the water! Max, Alina and Seb went for some plankton snorkelling and they squieled like little kids!! Lest to say, everything that happened 1hour after that felt like a bullet train flash that went 'ZOOMMM' past. Dear Maxie simply looked delirious and zonked out! And Good old Alina went one up by drinking Veronica's Orange Juice!! Hahaha That was so Funny!!! Little background update, only 4 of us were drinking, brad & veronica went to bed. That was so CLASS!! We were all so like shocked she did it, but the next day, it turned out to be a brilliant joke...

The next morning, woke up slightly groggy and missed the s'posed morning call again (yes, it was Max and I who woke up late once again...) But all was good cos this was the most fantastic day ever! Like they always say 'Leave the Best for the Last'. We started with Secret Beach, THE HIGHLIGHT!!!

From outside, you almost couldnt see the small opening beneath the rocks, but once u'r underwater, you can see the BIG opening where you need to swim through to get to Yes you guessed it Paradise!

The hole from underwater.

It is called secret beach cos it's hidden, if you hadn't known there's an opening, you wouldn't have know it leads to an enclosed beach. Now you wonder who the hell discovered this place!!! Brilliant!

After secret beach, it was secret lagoon, another place where you have to climb through a hole (this time not underwater)

Secret Lagoon

Then we had lunch and some snorkelling at Similac Island. Spotted this cute little red starfish and we were taking loads of photos with it...

Pretty red little starfish

After lunch, it was time to feed the fish! It was so fun! We were all so excited and Oohing and Aahing as the fish came swarming over us with the fish head...

Our last stop of the day was Small Lagoon. Apparently, Survivor Sweden is currently filming on location @ El Nido and when we were at Small lagoon, there were some fixtures for the challenges being fitted at Small Lagoon. Big Lagoon was out of limits that day as they were filming onsite.. Must keep a lookout for Survivor Sweden when it airs... Haha, now you know the islands are NOT as secluded and secret as it's made out to be on TV!!

Small lagoon was nice! Big area and we went swimming through the lagoon and what do you know, found a cave once again!! Yes Max was the most excited about the discovery of the cave, while Seb was a little hesitant in entering the cave (It was cold - what he said). Corals are nice underwater in small lagoon, so much better than the ones we saw during diving...

Left: Alina, mad max, me, Seb, Nhel

A perfect itinery for a perfect day, and just when we were heading back to pack up our things and go back to mainland, it started to pour!! Heng ah! How lucky were we! But it was still good! The best day out of the 3 :) Returning back to mainland, Max and I had hoped to catch the unreliable, schedule-less cargo ship to Coron, and true to its promise, there was no cargo ship at dock which means no go for our overnighter to Coron. So in the end, we decided to stay 2 more nights (1 extra day in El Nido) and do some island hopping again the next day! You just can't get enough! This time with a fully charged battery for Max's underwater camera, we will head back to some of our favourite places to do more photo shoots!!

The day didnt start out well, it rained and rained in the morning, which almost made us (Max, Alina and I. Dear Seb went back to Puerto, and possibly Tay Tay to visit Angie) abort our original plan. But Thank god we didn't cos the sky cleared towards mid morning! So we hired a boat (2,000P) added a few more for lunch and flippers and off we went in the rain. We were initially abit worried cos the rain seemed to get heavier as we approached hidden lagoon but after splashing ard in hidden lagoon, the sky cleared! WooHoo! So onwards we went to Secret Beach! We were told 'Maybe cannot go secret beach' as the captain was afraid that the current was too strong, but we persevered and went anyway. Turned out it wasn't bad at all! We were all so excited and enthralled with the swimming underwater through a hole that we filmed the whole process and did it over and over again and again. At least 4 times we went in and out in and out....And the best thing? We were the only group there!!! Secret indeed SHHHHHH

Putting my years of yoga practice into use for a good shot. If only the photo was taken after my legs were straightened

Lunch back at Similac island. And After lunch, we headed to Big Lagoon!! This time, Big lagoon is open and small lagoon was closed. A little disappointed we couldnt get to small lagoon but they were filming so it was off limits...

Big lagoon appeared to be the accomodation site for the crew (the houses were too nicely built to be for the contestants) and there were several structures built for challenges. Which we tried.. We had wanted to climb up a platform several meters above water level and jump down but was stopped by the production crew who was checking it for safety. What a pity...

We are survivor!!

Brilliant idea by Alina, Having a Terrible Time! Keep the tradition going!

The day ended with one of the most beautiful sunsets in El Nido, pinkish sky. Perfect ending for a wonderful 7 days in El Nido. The next day - onwards to Coron on an 8 hr boat ride...

The boat ride departed at 830am (though it was s'posed to be 8am). Dragging our half asleep bodies, we boarded the boat which was only slightly bigger than the normal boats used for island hopping. And we had thought it was a big boat (as described by Nhel). Not the most comfortable for 8hrs, where we struggled to find a comfortable position to take a snooze. All was well initially as I got space to lie down and max found a nice spot outside to sleep, when it started to rain, and everyone got back in under shelter and my space got 'invaded' once again by Max who woke me up from my sleep.. Then it was trying to get into a position to snooze a little, only to be woken intermittenly by the very bumpy ride...

8 hrs later, we finally arrived in Coron, where it was the 1st time in 2 weeks we felt REALLY REALLY unbearably HOT and HUMID!! To think that it was sunny and bright in El Nido during island hopping where we were exposed to the sun whole day, and yet it felt even worse in Coron. Literally melted few minutes upon arrival!

As we were wandering around trying to find accomo, Ricardo approached us to offer help. At 1st, we thought 'Oh another tout trying to scam us of money' but turned out he was really helpful! He's like the mafia of Coron, knows almost everyone, has connections with alot of places and able to help arrange almost everything! So next time you go to Coron, look for Ricardo! His name is almost everywhere on signboards in Coron Town. He got us a room, with air con (god bless air con, we needed it soooo much) & private bathroom for 500P per night, which I would say it a steal, considering it has AIR-CON!!!!! And of course mozzie net upon request (who can forget mozzie net with Maxie around Throw him anywhere, just give him a mozzie net!)

Coron town is surprisingly busy and bustling. And food is much better and bigger portioned than in El Nido haha! Prices are reasonable (as I said, food in Philippines is not that cheap anyway). We had good curries on the 1st night and I immediately zonked out after a hot, tiring day of travel...

The following day after arrival was F&E. I settled my flight arrangements out of Coron and Manila, and basically just walked around town abit. This was the day we finally get to watch some cock fight!! Missed out on it in Puerto, and finally got to see it in Coron!! The favourite pastime of Pinoys, on a lazy afternoon. Nothing stops Pinoys from enjoying and participating in cock fight! There was a lot of waiting, weighing of cocks, selecting opponents and prepping to be done before the real fight begun. It is a brutal fight where cocks are fitted with blades on their feet and the aim is to stab the opponent until they're disabled or even die!! It's fight for the death! And what awaits the loser - A delicious chicken meal for the owner...

The night ended with a great pasta meal at Bistro Coron (another great find for food) and some Internet surfing (at 20P per hour, that's like NOTHING!!!)

The next day begins our WRECK DIVING!!! What you come to Coron for!! Went with Coral Bay Diving at 2,700P for 3 dives, include equipment+torch+lunch, the cheapest you can get!! We went to 3 wrecks - Kogyo Wreck, Morozan Wreck and East Tangat Wreck.

Me on dive boat with DM RJ

Fitted with long wetsuits (not the easiest to wear but good for wreck diving) Max and I were the only 2 doing the wreck diving itself. The others on board the same boat were doing recreational basic diving so not certified to do wreck diving. Actually, Max is not certified to do wreck diving (only basic open water diver), but the thing is they don't really do checks on your certification (Shh don't tell), so dive at your own peril!!! He was abit paranoid when he signed his live away on those forms, but Max being who he is, proceed nonetheless. I mean, you're in Coron how can you NOT do wreck diving!!

The 1st wreck - Kogyo, was amazing enough. Swimming in pitch black with only our tiny torch to 'enlighten' us through the body of the wreck, squeezing through unbelievably tight spots up and down. WooHoo! So much fun! The thing about wreck diving is - It's not about marine life. It's about the wreck, so it's not everyone's cup of tea. but it's exciting in itself!

2nd dive was the best - Morozan! More swimming through of the wreck, going up and down, squeezing in through more tight spaces and tunnels. You really have to be careful and wade slowly as any sudden movement can kick up alot of sand and blur your vision. At one point, we went up above a pocket of air and you could take off the regulator and breathe and talk normally! We were madly excited when we tried it and really laughed and went 'WooHoo'!!

3rd dive - East Tangat, the shallow dive. it was ok, but as we were diving with 2 additional people (who are really amateur divers, not great with controlling bouyancy yet had an underwater camera with them.....) it was not the best experience. They were in front of us and kicked up alot of sand when squeezing through the wreck and we at the back had to feel our way through cos we couldn't see a thing! But all in all, it was a fantastic dive day!!

That's the tip of East tangat Wreck

And back in town, we were treated with a most fantastic sunset over Coron town!! Damn sunsets! The best thing when You're at coastal areas! How many fantastic sunsets have we had over the 2weeks? Countless!!!

My last day in Coron was spent doing island hopping. 650P per pax, we went to Kayangan Island, Twin Peaks, Twin lagoon, Attawa Beach, Coral Bay, Cyc Beach and Barrakuda Lake (extra entrance fee for the last).

Kayangan Lake was amazing!!! A big pool of fresh water lake with amazing rock formations underwater. It's an Underwater Pinnacles!!

Amazing Kayangan Lake

We did some underwater shots, and I must admit, as much as I love watersports and swim tons and tons, I have a small lung, which can only take in limited air capacity... I can dive into water, but not for ridiculously long period of time, which explains why I consume so much less air during diving... So for all the crazy stunts and antics that Mad Max cleverly displayed for the camera, I can only marvel in awe but couldn't quite replicate. I shall practice to enlarge my lung capacity for the next time, and Maxie, I'll repay your superb effort of taking great underwater shots the next time :)

Crazy antics by Mad Max. Splits, upside down turns etc etc

Tried my very best to grap hold of the rock but my breath ran out. Still a nice effort

Twin peaks was good for snorkelling, and Twin lagoon was alright. You can enter the lagoon by swimming underwater or climbing overhead. Obviously there isn't a choice for us - Swimming underwater is the way to go! Not as exciting as in El Nido (when you've been to Secret beach, any other underwater swim through pales in comparison).

Lunch was at Attawa Beach when it rained and sucked when it rains... More snorkelling @ Coral bay next... And we headed off to CYC beach, which was explained to us when we booked the tour as a piece of WHITE, SANDY beach... Which was exactly the total opposite when we reached there! Not only was it littered with all sorts of rubbish, there wasn't much of a beach to be had!! Call it Rubbish dumpsite..

Our last stop was Barrakuda lake. Only Max and I opted to go for which we just need to pay extra for the entrance fee (100P each). It was a sight to behold! All round the lake, you just see Pinnacles over and over! The lake is famous for it's extreme temperature differential, but I guess you can only feel it when you dive there as you need to go really deeper down. Mad max tried diving down probably to 7m but no difference there...

As a dare and as it was my last day of the trip, I somehow convinced Max to try Balut! Haha, we've been talking about this since the start of the trip but somehow we never saw it being sold anywhere but here in Coron!! Although he hesitated, he gamely tried it! Yup, that's Mad Max. for 15P each egg. Peeling off the eggshell, the egg itself smelled terrible. And it was excruciating watching him bite into the egg (the full video is posted on my FB page). Bravo to him for taking a few bites of the white and the embryo itself..But ultimately, he didnt finish the egg and couldn't do it...

The Balut...Eeks

I didnt take a bite.. I can't eat a chick.. But on hindsight, I kinda regret not taking just a wee bit bite into the egg part... Damn... And Mad Max was all over himself afterwards for not finishing the egg!!! Saying how disappointed he was for not downing it.. Alrightey, give it another try the next time and make sure you tape that down and show it to me!!

The flight back home the next day was just another round of adventure. Zest air from Coron to manila, which surprise surprise was delayed by 2hrs. As I sat in the Coron airport, watching Cebu Air come and go, Air Phil come and go, Zest Air was still not in sight... Gist, I guess I'll strike the lottery if Zest Air is ever punctual! But I guess air travel is still the easier way (time consuming) though at Coron airport you pay 20P for domestic travel, but tt's paltry compared to 200P you pay in Manila!

So there I was, panicking cos I would miss my flight back home (210pm flight from Manila to SG). So the minute I landed in Manila (close to 3pm) i rushed to the international Terminal (which was another 15mins away damn) and lucky lucky!! My flight was delayed!! haha chain reaction i guess? Managed to get home safe and sound :)

And so ends my fantabulous 2 weeks in Palawan. What can I say? I had the best time of my life easily!! That's what a beach vacation can do to you! I haven't been to a real beach vacation in 2yrs!! I'm a beach person, I need a beach to recharge and this was what I need! It brings out the real me from within hahaha! And I really needed this recharge! It was the most ad hoc travel trips i've been to, yes there was an agenda, but nope everything wasn't like planned ahead of time, which makes it spontaneous and fun! And I liked the feeling of going with the flow...When was the last time we did that? It's always been 'I need to be there by XX, I need to stay here for XX days etc etc'. Yes of course there were some kinda timeline to stick to, but it wasn't like a timeplan that must be adhered to...

Aftermath of the trip - My handphone got drowned damn. I've never realized how handicapped and reliant I am on my HP, until it died and I was uncontactable for 3 days... Numerous scars on my beautiful legs (thanks to coral cuts and don't know what kinda cuts I suffered), mozzie bites and sandflies bites. And of course, another coat of tan all over me. Yes, no surprise, I just got darker AGAIN!! It didnt seem much when you're at the beach with other people tanning or getting tan, but the moment I returned back home, I felt different cos I was so tanned and people around me are so much fairer! I need to go back to the beach hahah!

I think I need to get an underwater camera. Haha it's times like these when you realize, damn if only i can take pictures underwater. It's not everytime u meet people who have underwater cameras and are willing to take pictures of you and send it to you. (Yes, photos of underwater are courtesy of Max's camera). It's really useful, maybe I should consider getting one, and bringing 2 cameras each time. You never know when you'll need/use it.

Glad to have met all the beautiful fun-loving nice people on the trip (Yes, I'm referring to you Alina and Seb) You make the expedition a real CLASS!! It would have been so much different w/o you guys (you know what I mean).

Of course, I cannot forget my beloved travel buddy - Mad Max who made this trip possible! For gamely inviting a strange Singaporean lady who could 1)potentially wreck havoc into your travel plans; 2) be a maniac stalker; 3) be clingy, boring, authoritative, bossy person; 4) mad hatter bomb. Thanks for helping me finish off my pizzas, and I'm still amazed at how much you can eat (1 big plate of pasta + 1 baguette filled with beef & cheese + 2 slices of pizzas) yet not put on an inch of fat... But please don't do anything stupid (like trying to free a monkey and instead getting jumped on by it) without me around to film the act as evidence. Lest you can do is film it yourself and show it to me :)

Being back home makes me miss the holidays and Paradise. Dear god, I'm thinking of where to go next!! I've always wanted to go Africa, take a very long holiday (maybe a couple of months) and explore the whole of Africa. Maxie!! If and when you decide to go Africa, sign me up!!!

Or maybe South America? Or maybe Tibet? Or maybe Mongolia?? Haha

I've Been To Paradise.....

You know how you've always wanted to find nirvana or paradise? A place where it's so divine and not full of people, laid back with a kinda beachy feel and nice people? I think I was in Paradise, or at least a version of it... And now i'm back home, but hey home is also a paradise (Remember "Fried Rice Paradise", conceptualized by Dick Lee?)

Totally at Lost how to Start the travelogue cos those 2 weeks were simply AMazing and it's hard to put the adventures and fun into words fitting enough to draw you readers into my fabulous experience in Paradise.

As the saying goes 'Pictures say a thousand words', so I thought, maybe 'Videos say a million words'!!! Sneak peak into the fantabulous scenery of Paradise and fun-filled 2 weeks with these exclusive videos. (Note: these footages were taken in El Nido, a real Paradise that has yet to be crowded with tourists and backpackers)

Back to drawing block, time to clear my mind, conceptualize the blog and details, collate all information written in my travel journal and put all the amazingness into words to fill up this blog and hope to give you readers an interesting read :) It's hard being a blogger but someone's gota do the job :)

Beginning of the End, Start of a New Beginning

Tick Tock On The Clock But the Party Won't Stop.......

Finally, the countdown has hit ground zero. Sad that I'm leaving behind all the wonderful colleagues & friends, but excited as I'm moving towards a new challenge. 2 months of anticipation, excitment is finally at the finishing line, and I've completed my 3.5 years of marathon. It's an end to one of the important phases of my working career, and with it brings forth the beginning of another new and exciting phase of life!

It all started back in Dec 2007. Fresh out of the torturous, inhumane, slave driving accounting firm (one of the Big 4), I dove straight into the comfortable arms of Electrolux, with the Santa Claus-que boss named Jonny (direct from Stockholm) and his arm of elves and fairies. All seemed lovely dovely but at the same time slightly alien. I was a wide-eyed little ingenue, eagerly anticipating the new job scope and responsibilities, but apprenhensive about how I would fit into this 'festive' team. Truth be told, I was slightly intimidated by the elder elves in the team as they seemed such a closely knit family to break through and I thought they were a little distant. The fairies were ok, but interaction was brewing slowly...

Not long after, one of the fairies left the group to set up her own Xmas factory somewhere in the far far away land, and shortly after followed by the departure of another elf. By that time, I have gained my entry into the mystical group as one of the fairies and was bestowed upon the mystical world renowned treasure 玉女剑. All was lovely dovely once more and with the induction, I was introduced into the world of Higher Chinese by the master elf with all those "High Level" Chinese Poems which only the true master can understand and recite blindly. By Higher Chinese, you cannot take it literally to mean those cheem chinese languages but rather skewered versions of the language where Moulin Rouge is being beautified by words.

Then along came the third fairy and the team was promoted to Charlie's Angels (code name Xiao Yan Zi or xyz, Xiao Yu or fish, Xiao Ching) with the master elf occupying the all important Charlie's role. The years that followed help shape my career and also widen my horizon and knowledge base.

It is also this role that helped fulfilled my dream of travelling around the world, albeit only a few countries in APAC region, but good enough!! I was able to visit Blue Mountains, Manly Beach and Bondi beach in Sydney, Shopping in Bangkok, Scaling the Gwanaksan in South Korea, Freezing in the winter of Stockholm, busk in the sophistication of Shanghai, submerge myself in the wonder mountains of Zhangjiajie which were behind the idea of Avatar, Soak up the supposedly romantic vibe of Paris and exciting live of New York and get to know many many great colleagues from all around the world!!! It was really an eye opener for me, a small town girl who lives her whole live in Jurong (the extreme west part of Singapore), never quite step out into city much often. It also helped spice up my life so much more with loads of exposure to the different cultures and attitudes of people around the world.

Yes of course, life and work is not always lovely dovely. There were times of stress (not that I stress up easily), anger and frustration, jet lag, unfair treatments etc, but there were much more enjoyable times and fun moments within the team! Who can forget those nights during global conferences where we stayed up to play Chua Dai Di (Big 2), the never-ending life stories and advice, family talks and anecdotes, bitching and complaining about alot of things... Those are just CLASS!!

Props for all the efforts in trying to encourage me to eat meat (tho they failed miserably), or to eat sashimi (failed too).

As i'm tidying up my desk, packing up my stuff, there is a tinge of sadness for leaving this group of people who've been by my side, provided all the laughs for the past 3.5 years. I never thought that we can be such a close family, but we have! This is one family of people I will not forget. I mean, who can forget??

Not to forget friends I've made in the company itself. And all the auditees I've met, you all have been the best.... Maybe it's me (who can resist a cute pretty face), but I must say, the auditees have all been really nice to me and I really appreciate it.

Moving on to a new company with new challenges is always difficult. Paranoid about the new environment, new colleagues, new job scope, new boss, new auditees...All kinds of new things always make you ansty but you've gota do what's to be done! Time to move on and accept new challenges. For better or worse (of cos hope for better), it is a path that needs to be treaded. Life is about the unknowns, about taking up challenges. Like Forest Gump once put it, life is a box of chocolates, you never know what you'll get (unless you bought a box of single flavoured choc...), any other way, it's not gg to kill you! Hey, i mean it's chocolates, any other way it should taste fine right?? Ok, except mayb mint flavour (Yucks)

Special thanks for & to:
The love and tender care from my fabulous team (you know who you are)
Countless life and love advices
Picnics
Gossips and bitching sessions
Dear's words of encouragement XoXo (Haha scandalous??? Don't think too much into this)
Food Glorious Food during overseas trips
China Project for helping me attain Platinum Starwood status
The ever fabulous and wonder auditees

I grew out of the uni box with E&Y, I blossomed into my own with Electrolux, and I look forward to shining in my next challenge.

Cue *Should all acquaintance be forgot.........* There was a conspiracy to try and make me cry, but I don't cry easily :) but I know i'll miss you all!!! Miss Miss Miss!! Must keep in touch always!!

Off to Palawan in Philippines for a short holiday recharge before my new job begins!! From 25 May till possibly 4/5 June. Frolicking by the beaches, enjoying the sun and sand and hopefully beach boys :) It's been such a super duper long time since I've been to a nice beach.. Over 1 year (Pulau Aur doesn't count) Man I miss the sun, sand and sea! Bring on the beach babes and hunks!!

Diet Revamp

Doctor: Your cholestorol abit high. Have to eat less meat

Me: Huh very high?

Doctor: Slightly on the high side for someone so young. Bad Cholestorol is abit high. Ah u know, less meat less meat...

Me: Er, but I don't eat meat

Doctor: *Shock* Wah, u don't eat meat, still high cholestorol, so sad

Me: ..... *smile*

Doctor: You don't eat meat but still have enough iron, no anemia. Maybe it's genetics la. Don't worry, no medication for you but need to monitor.

Damn it, I had feared this result but the truth is out and what's done is done. Yes, I have high cholestorol! Shocker!! Cannot believe it right? I don't eat meat, i exercise hard so bloodly active still kena high cholestorol. Yes, my good cholestorol is high which is good, but the bad one is also high which is bad.... Doc says could be genetic, so I'm the unfortunate one. Now i've got to watch my already very minimal diet of food..... No excessive cheese/eggs/prawns/seafood/fatty food. Ok, i need to stop munching on nuts, those killer nuts damn it! Need to be even more healthy in my food choices..

What's worse than spraining your ankle?

- Spraining it AGAIN, exact same spot, exact same activity causing it, exact same fashion it was sprained. Fuck! Exact same time period of the day too!

- Spraining it with ankle guard wrapped around it!! Double fuck! (Apologies for the vulgarity) And you thought ankle guard can help protect a weaker ankle! Damn it!

But this is not going to stop me from engagin in the activity again. No way I love this sport too much to give it up. I think i need a super duper fantastic ankle guard. And I need to double load on my ankle strengthening exercises. Luckily though, this time round it's not as severe as the last one. And having learnt from the last time, started treatment immediately and results are good. Swelling's gone down, just needs a couple more ankle exercises and days more to recover......How you hate it when u have an injury which prevents you from engaging in rigorous activities....

I dream a Little dream

No not a Susan Boyle song. And Not exactly A little dream... Two to be precise

I dreamt abt the beginning of the end of the world! (Big pause) And to think that I was talking abt the end of the world (thanks to the Mayan prophecy) just 1wk ago in Mulu (the How would it end, and what would you do questions).

So here is my dreams:

1st dream, I dreamt that we saw the sun being swallowed by the Moon (i.e eclipse) and everyone was so excited to witness eclipse. Then suddenly when the Moon totally swallowed the sun, it started to glow like it was burning, brighter and brighter and brighter until it explodes like a bomb and swallowed the entire earth within seconds, no time to even react - END.

2nd dream (starts immediately after the 1st), the earth is engulfed in total darkness, like a massive worldwide blackout with no life. Come to think of it, it may have been a continuation of the 1st dream, but I can't be sure...

Wow, my dreams are dark. But it kinda fits (alittle) abt my idea of how the earth ends - Suddenly 'poof' the earth is destroyed entirely. Not like the movie 2012 where all lands are being destroyed, with human beings left stranded in sea. Nope, my idea is earth will just suddenly disappear 'poof' gone, zero, none. And the planetary has one less planet. Nobody suffers from lost loved ones, anguish blah blah...Everyone treated the same way. The unlucky ones would be those astronauts who happen to be out in space at that time, they would be the survivors with nowhere to return to.. How sad would that be?! So morale of the story, don't go on space expedition in 2012 hahaha...

Do you believe that the world is going to end in 2012?? I don't

The Adventures of Mulu - Unveiled and Uncovered

Finally, the long awaited blog is here! I'm just 1 week late, that's not too bad considering that it could have been worse... I will be as detailed as possible without boring readers with unnecessary information, but at the same time provide as much information about Mulu Caves as possible because I really think you people should visit this place. But then again, I'm long-winded hahaha so I don't care! I'll just ramble on and on and on.........

Short introduction on the place - Gunung Mulu. This is a Unesco World Heritage site, with the biggest caves amidst the natural rainforest (one of the few remaining in Malaysia). Not to be missed are the Pinnacles, limestone formations that looked beautiful (similar to Stone Forest in China, but you have to scale 1500m to view Pinnacles)

How we came about deciding on this location? Actually the idea of a short week long getaway stemmed from Last year, sometime end Q1 of 2010. When we were talking about our Beijing Oct 2010 trip, I planted a little seed in Angeline's mind about a short getaway prior to Beijing (Aug 2010). We started looking at places (Perlis and Langkawi were shortlisted) but the plan fell through as our vacation days could not coincide. So KIV for 2010 while we concentrated on BJ 2010. But the little seed was planted and cannot be deseeded (courtesy of my constant watering). So after BJ, I started the talk once again for a short getaway and somehow, it became Mulu! I can't really remember how Mulu came into the picture, but i think it had something to do with adventure, nature and Angeline suggesting Kuching to visit friend. So Mulu it was, and we started planning sometime end Q1 2011. Come to think of it, i'm actually glad we chose Mulu cos it was really fun!

So looking through the official website, we started to draft our activities to fit into the plan and decided upon a number of activities to fill up 5 days of Mulu. Of cos, Pinnacles looked like the most interesting thing to do given that I like hiking...So we decided upon it, thinking it shld not have been too hard (but he he he...more on that later). Then we planned a 1 day stop in Kuching (visit Angeline's friend) and fly back via Miri (a boring little town). So that was how it all started. Anyone interested in knowing more about Mulu Park can refer to this website http://www.mulupark.com/

On 29 April 2011, we embarked on our flight to Kuching where we later spent 1 day touring the entire Kuching town.

The Kuching River

Truth be told, Kuching is small and there's really nothing much to do. We woke up early and left to 'tour' at about 9am, thinking early bird gets the worm and that we might have much things to do. But by like 1030am, we were bored and racking our brains on what to do.. Of cos unless you're interested in the cultural village and the Bako National Park, then you can easily spend 2 days here...

So we decided to take a 1hour sampan ride along the Kuching river to kinda waste time...

On the sampan

Then on 1 May, we finally embarked on our Mulu adventure, starting with a 1.5hr flight on a propeller plane! The flight is actually rather smooth, and half empty

Propeller plane we took to and from Mulu. They serve drinks; and food if the flight time is longer

From the Mulu airport (a really small airport), it's a 2min shuttle to the Park HQ where we booked our accomodation. You can actually walk from the airport (it's only 1.5Km) but since Angeline had a large suitcase, we opted for the van...It's only RM5 each per way

Crossing the bridge from the drop off pick to enter the Park HQ

Actually there are 2 more accomodations located outside of Mulu Park HQ that offer rooms (or rather beds) at more cheaper rate, but we didnt know. We thought the only accomo was inside Park HQ and the highly atas Royal Mulu. So anyway, if you want, can consider. One of them is Rainforest lodge at RM35 per bed (it's a dorm), the other is like a homestay. Both have very basic facilities but I think they're sufficient. Our first night, we booked into the 20+bed dorm for RM40 each (with b'fast). It's actually not too bad and the bathroom is attached to the room.

After checking in, we went for the Deer and Lang cave tour (RM20 each). FYI, 90% of the activities in Mulu Park have to be guided. It's compulsory. I guess that comes with being UNESCO listed. With the exception of like 2 walks and wandering around the lodging area and I suppose bat viewing, all other visits to caves etc have to be guided.

1st Lang cave, limestone caves with loads of Stalactites (top down) and Stalagmites (bottom up). They are quite impressive but lightings within the caves are alittle lacking I would say. Compared to Halong Bay caves where they have loads of lightings and Naracoote caves... Photographers enthusiast, no big tripods are allowed. Yes, small ones ok (which i brought along)

The beautiful limestone formations in Lang Cave

After Lang cave, we visit Deer cave, world's largest natural rock chamber!! It's really really big and awesome! Standing inside you just feel awed by the sheer size of it!! It can accomodate London's St Paul cathedral 5 times over and fit 40 Boeing 747 planes side by side!!! Why is it called Deer cave? Apparently, long time ago, deers are attracted to this cave to feed on guano (bat's shit), hence the name.

Just at the far end from the opening is Garden of Eden It just looks like a mystical valley! If you have time, can take a tour to this place. We didnt have the time unfortunately

After the cave tours, it's time for the viewing of bats when they fly out of the caves in search of food! Hence, pls choose the 230pm Cave tour, as by the time you're done with the caves, it's almost just right for the bats which come out around 530-6pm. We went for the 2pm tour, and ended up waiting from 5pm. But the viewing area has chairs and seats, so it's not a bad wait.

2nd April starts our adventure - Pinnacles trek. We were worried that we had to pay for 3 as the day before, there were only 2 of us confirmed on the trek. Luckily 3 more people paid for the trek on the same day. Hence we came to know the 3 as Max (from wales), Edward (Holland) and Gabo (Hungarian, we think his name sounds like this...)

While waiting for the briefing, we were sorta shocked to hear that Pinnacles trek is actually harder than Mt K trek! Ultra shockness! Angeline went completely white! We had signed up for it, thinking it's just a mid-level trek uphill. I've trekked up Gunung Belumut and Stong (over 1000m) and did a number of trekking in Thailand, so i figured (at 1st) Pinnacles can't be that bad, if not we would have heard of it way b4! But this was confirmed by the guide, and Angeline was just simple frightened. We talked about it, and decided to give it a day to think over if she'll do it..

Our adventure starts with a boat ride to the Clearwater caves. The day started pretty cooling only to be followed by slight drizzle

Boat ride to the caves. It was drizzling already

Clearwater cave is Asia's longest cave. You can actually do an advanced adventure caving within the caves!

Just when we were finished with the caves, it started pouring and we had to simply walk in the pouring rain, and ended up soaking wet all the way... And this pouring rain contributed to more adventures along the way

After the clearwater caves, we took the boat to the start of our trek to Camp 5. It's a 8km trek, which on a normal good day is fairly simple and relaxing. Alas, this was not a normal day. Heavy rainfall meant flooding of the lower lands, and what was once an almost stagnant trickle of flowing water became a pool of rushing river! We first started with walking through knee high water, then proceeded to crossing a quick flowing river that is almost thigh high, not once but twice! We totally had no idea that was to be expected!! Can't imagine doing it alone, think I would have been washed away..

Of cos, leeches were the last thing I expected until Angeline felt the 1st bite! That was when it dawned upon me that leech bites feel that way and I discovered I had been bitten a couple of times prior.. And that was not the last of it. Subsequently, I was bitten alot more times, and suffered 2 'fatal' bites that just simply would not stop bleeding! Yes, it continued to bleed for hours even after I arrived at Camp 5, after a refreshing shower... So that was how everyone in the Camp knew I was bleeding, cos I kept going back to change the dressing to soak up the blood. It wasnt until late night, just b4 we went to bed that the bleeding finally stopped. I bet the Vampires would have loved to meet me then...

Of cos the trek was made harder by the fact that we had to pack our own b'fast, lunch and dinner for the 3d2n trek, so that's like extra 10kg of load...Depending on how big an appetite you have.

One of the nasty leech bite and it still hasn't completely healed


Camp 5. It's pretty decent with bathroom facilities, and sleeping rooms (slept on mats only anyway) and a full kitchen (minus food)


River along the Camp5

The next day, we started our trek at 7am, and was told that we had to reach the ladders (about 400m away from the top) before 11am, no later, if not we will not be allowed to proceed. Angeline had decided by then that she'll stop at mini Pinnacle (at 900m in distance). That is the point of decision where you will be allowed to trek back alone. If not, at least 2 people are required b4 you can return back to Camp. I felt alittle bad that I had dragged her into this, so I resolved to carry on no matter what..

Break time. Look closely, he really looks like Novak

After about 1hr, we reached mini Pinnacles! Frankly speaking the 1st 900m was the hardest as the guides were moving a little too fast and it was hard to catch up. Once after, you get used to the pace and it was not as daunting. Angeline made it to Mini Pinnacles when we had all thought she returned at 800m. Good Job Angeline!! You can do it the next time, I'm sure!!

One of the many stunts performed along the way, courtesy of Max. FYI, I slipped a couple of times downhill

The climb is alot of hands and legs work cos alot of times, especially towards the top, you really had to do abit of rock climbing, scaling rocks & ladders and ropes. When they say this is harder than Mt K, it's cos of the steep slopes and pointy rocks all the way up

We reached the top in record time (3.5hrs) at 1030am!! WooHoo we were that fast!

Lunch break at the top at 1500m

The Money shot! Group photo time! On 2nd thoughts, we were alittle serious in this shot

Our trek up Pinnacles included another group which was doing Headhunters trail. Pinnacles is part of the trail. Another 5 people - 2 from Denmark (1 of whom bears an uncanny resemblance to Novak Djokovic) and 3 from Russia.

Another tip - Always bring playing cards! At least 1 pack. What do you know tucked away from civilisation amongst the trees and bushes with a bunch of people?? Play cards of course!! Else i'm sure you'll die of boredom, unless you fancy night trekking and a game of hide & seek in the woods... We spent the 2 nights playing cards and having a ball of a time!! Two new games learnt & memorised (hopefully) - Shit Head (confirmation from the master himself) and 31. I shall commit them to my long term memory and bring it out whenever

The next morning, 830am move out time, and we started our trek back to Park HQ. Thinking that we may encountered the same adventure we had on the way to the Camp, it was lucky that we didnt! Haha, although some people were definitely disappointed.. I was glad cos I wore my trek shoes and didnt want it to be soaking wet. My nice comfy sandals was a victim of the muddy grounds and flash floods on the way to the Camp RIP :(. Now I have reason to go shop for another pair!

Indiana jones-que bridge with 2 wooden planks. One mistep and you're in for some fun

Without the flood, the trek was alot easier, also contributed by the fact that our loads were all lighter (no more food)!

The weather was nice, sunny and hot, so I was literally like an open water tap, except what flows out is perspiration....



We checked into the Longhouse (private room with 4 beds) upon return. Decided to reward ourselves abit. It's nice, own bathrooms with aircon (that stays on for a limited time). If you're a group of 4, and don't mind spending alittle bit more, can consider this. Or there's actually a chalet that can sleep like 8 pple! Yes we checked out the entire area. It's like RM200 for 2 people and you get the entire chalet! That's like only RM20 more exp than longhouse. Extra person is RM0 each up to a max of 8, that works out to be like RM62.50 each if you have 8 people

After we reached the Park HQ, onto other activities!! We decided to do DIY walks to Tree Top Tower and Moonmilk..

Tree Top was a disappointment. Yes it's FOC but even if you have the time, Don't Do it.. I would rather slack around then walk up the tower and see nothing...



Then we proceeded to the Moonmilk walk, not fully expecting how long the trek is and what to see. At the base of daunting 425 steps, we looked at each other and thought 'Is this part of the walk?' and decided against going up, seeing that black clouds were starting to form. So we turned back, and within seconds, it poured!! Poured really heavily!! No umbrella or raincoats, we braced the rain and walked back the whole 30mins or so. You couldnt really run as the ground is very slippery. So we actually had a free shower! Glad I didnt take one b4 the walk, save some water...

Next day, we went for adventure caving to Lagang Cave, one of the beginner's course. As usual, almost had to pay for 3. So morale of the story, if possible go with a group of 3.


Initially we thought 'Oh nothing much, just walking in the dark amongst limestones'. Then the fun begun. The walls started to become lower and lower until we had to be on all fours!! The American who was with us started complaining (and He Just wouldn't stop complaining!!!)

It was fun but tiring, and damn I should have brought knee guard cos my knees are now all bruised (still alittle bruised now).

The start of the crawl

And just when we thought the worst is over, the gap between ground and wall narrowed further until we had to crawl on our bellies and wiggle through! So that is why it said 'wear old clothes, be prepared to get muddy and dirty' on the brochures!

And the rolling begins...

It was stuffy and tough wiggling, so I resorted to simply rolling along. It's actually a very effective way, beats having to crawl on belly.

After much fun in the mud, we then had to navigate through rocks and stones (much reminiscence of Pinnacles). After 2.5hrs, we came out victorious and muddy!!! It is really really dark inside the caves. When you switch off the torches, you really cannot see anything. NOTHING AT ALL. Not even after minutes of accustoming to the darkness...

Us in our dirty clothes. Luckily I threw those clothes away. Imagine the trouble to wash it

What is the best thing to do after getting down and dirty? Clean up in the waterfalls!! So without resting, we headed directy to Paku waterfall (one of the free DIY walks you can do). It's a 40min walk along muddy paths (again!!) to the waterfalls. Muddy cos it rained the day before. But it was damn SHIOK and refreshing to dip in the water and wash the mud off (not entirely). Swimming towards the falls is hard cos of the current but the reward is worth it!

Unfortch, my camera is not water-proof and the distance is too far away, so couldnt take picts of me actually sitting under the waterfall

We spent quite some time frolicking in the water and it's a good thing that there were noone ard but us (except for the same whining American who appeared a few mins after us. Damn it) And feeling bored at night, we went for a short nightwalk trail (lasted all of 30mins) where we saw nothing much except for a couple of fireflies and scared ourselves when we caught something or touched something at our legs....

Our last day in Mulu saw us going for the Canopy Skywalk (RM35 each). It has 15 bridges and rises 25-30m above ground.

I feel so small

It took us almost an hour to complete the 15 bridges. Nice walk. And we learnt that Fig Trees are actually a kind of tree leech, latches itself on its victim, suck the vitamins out of them and totally take over control once the victim dies... Survival of the Fittest



After the Canopy, we decided to give Moonmilk walk another try cos we learnt that on top of the 425 steps, there is actually a Moonmilk cave!


Luckily no rain on that day so we once again climbed up the 425 steps (Like Pinnacles trek itself is not enough..) and was rewarded with the cool air of the cave! Moonmilk cave so called because of the white creamy substance found inside the cave..


So ends our adventure in Mulu. We came back with loads of mosquito bites (Angeline mainly), some scars and scratches and leech bites. And of cos, I would like to say perkier butts and thighs from the many climbs and walks and treks over the 5 days! Beats any session in the gym anyday! I've developed some more defined calve muscles i think!

We had to spend one night in Miri for our flight back home. Miri - Boring little town. We wanted to find a cinema just to watch something to spend time, but their one and only cinema was closed for renovation!! Imagine!! Now I wonder what the people there do for entertainment! We spent sometime shopping (didnt buy anything really, I bought a green sarong dress which I 1st saw in Mulu Park HQ shop at a much cheaper price!)


But at least we were rewarded with a most beautiful sunset @ Miri!!


The quintessential sunset photo

So there you have it, our 1week long holiday in Mulu (mainly). People ask 'Why so many days?'; 'What the hell are you going to do?'. I guess if you're not doing the Pinnacles, 3days in Mulu is good enough to cover the essentials. With the Pinnacles, of cos I would say at least 5 days, so that you have 2 more days to cover the attractions within the Park.

Oh, there is actually another trek up Gunung Mulu (called The Summit). It's 4D3N, and you literally have to hike up the slopes with your full pack(food and everything) for the entire 4D (oh well, 1 day is just the hike up the summit without full pack) It's a challenge, but heard that it's quite nice too...Hire a porter to carry your heavy stuff, cos it's not easy upslope..

Yes, I highly recommend going to Mulu. It is a nice way to spend a week or so surrounded by nature. Yup no TVs or radios (unless you bring your own entertainment) And of course CARDS!! Or any other games or even your Iphone. And hopefully you're self sufficient in terms of snacks cos things are not cheap in the Park HQ shop...

Random Ramblings

While I'm brainstorming and collating the information to blog about my Mulu trip (well ok it's more laziness to start an avalanche of writings), I shall post a short post about random ramblings.

Random Rambling #1

So what the hell is going on with Novak Djokovic? He's on fire man! 34 straight wins and going and he won every tournament he participated in, and in the midst, beating Nadal, the KING OF CLAY, on the king's favourite most formidable surface -- CLAY! In straight sets! That's a feat. I was not a fan of Novak, he was an arrogant, childish, no determination kiddo who thought the world about himself when he obviously failed miserably before. Who can remember him after his 1st AO 2008 win? Non memorable at all! But i must say, he's matured since then. ALthough there were still the occassional withdrawals (heat stroke, bad stomach etc etc), he stopped acting childish and became less arrogant. I still can remember how he thought he was so much better than anyone else (including Fed) but in the end still lost hahaha.. And those entourage of his esp the parents, bloody noisy and arrogant people. But since last year, think he has really matured and stopped all those nonsense. Seems like at least the men's tennis scene has brightened up a little once again. It was getting real boring. But I hope he stops his winning streak :) I don't like it when people exceed Fed's records

Random Ranbling #2

I've been thinking for quite some time, since Jan this year when I last went to the hairdresser. Long or Short hair this year? Yes, it has come to a point where I'm getting bored with my hair once again. What more transformation/changes can I do to my hair & image this time? I've done short, shorter and extreme shortness. Bob, crewcut, pixie. Maybe it's time for another change. I've had short hair most of my life (Pri 1-6 + Sec 1-4 + 2007-2011) that's like 14 years of my life, then 8 years of long hair from JC till EY days & a couple of years when I was a tiny kindergardener.

Maybe it's time to revisit the days of long hair -- More shampoo & conditioner required, longer time taken to dry it naturally (no hairdryer), gota tie it up whenever I exercise (else I look like Sadako), extremely hotness under the extreme Singapore weather, messy look when I wake up..

Maybe I will give my hair time to grow a little longer and get used to it...Maybe i'll decide to let it grow longer past shoulder length... Or maybe in the end, I'll decide to snip if off hahahha. You'll know come end June

Random Rambling #3

I'm having trouble getting my beauty sleep. Period. Ever since I came back from US in Jan.

Damn, what's wrong with me, I'm feeling tired almost always, but sleep just does not come easily. I'll sleep early but wake up in the middle of the wee hours (4-5am) feeling tired but refusing to open my eyes. Happens often such that I'm perpetually zombie-like. I think it's affecting my personal life. Sometimes i get so tired i just give up on going to the gym. & just look at the size of my eye bags.. Is there anyway to cure this? definitely not insomnia. I need more hrs of sleep but it's fighting a battle with me, and I'm losing, and I HATE LOSING!!

Random Rambling #4

I realize my blogs were alot more interesting in the past as compared to now. Am I losing it? Or am I simple just can't be bothered? I have 200 posts dating back to 2006 but just 13 in 2011, approx 20+ in 2010. Seems like i'm getting lazier and lazier...or is my life getting more and more boring?? ahahhaa...

A friend of mine had asked if i wana start a travel blog, and I think why not!? I've already been blogging about most of my personal trips and I like doing that. But i realise alot of my business + leisure trips/day tours are not updated in my blog, even though sometimes I do the most adventurous stuff during those business trips (like mountaineering in Korea, hiking Manly in Sydney). Maybe I should start refreshing my memories on those trips and put them down in words!

Side note, i've started compiling Montages of my past trips, getting there but not quite done yet.. It's nice to reminisce all the old photos and look at how I've changed (mentally and physically) Ahhh Those were the days. Plus, I've just uploaded my Russia Trip back in 2006 onto Facebook! Wow those were amazing photos! Even though they were taken with an old camera. Goes to show what a GOOD photographer can do with any equipment... Now i'm contemplating if i should upload some other earlier photos (2006 Chiangmai or 2005 Eastern Europe) Hmmm thinking...

Random Rambling #5

Ok, i've run out of ramblings but anyway i want to say this -- I'm starting a new job soon! In June! Yes, my 3rd job in my whole working career. So i'm looking at approx 1.5wks of break b4 my new job kicks in. Wondering if I should go somewhere.. But am abit lazy to sit down and plan where to go haha.. Anyone travelling in Asia? I'll just leech (I'm liking the word leech) on your itinery and travel plans?

Random Rambling #6

To Brace or Not To Brace, that is the question. My dentist told me last year that I can correct my slightly crooked teeth with braces! Wow it never dawned upon me to get braces. I've been so used to my crooked teeth haha..But hey, it can possibly improve my smile even further (of cos I have a fantastic smile now but who can argue with better) Plus, after the braces have been removed, you get a sorta sculpting effect on your face haha! Who can argue with sharper or smaller face...

Ok, maybe I should get started on my Mulu travelogue & photos... Procrastination is my biggest enemy. I'll put up a good post (don't I always do??) and amaze you with photos haha so that you will WANT to go mulu!!

What I have Been Doing the Past 7 days...

Hiking Up 1.5m (2.4KM in distance), walking walking and tons of walking, adventure caving, rolling in mud and enjoying it, perspiring up to 2L each day, baking in the sun most days, getting leeched (i.e. bitten by damn f***ing leeches) more than you can count, bleeding non-stop for >3hrs due to the leeches, swimming in the waterfalls, walking/running/soaking in the rain for like ever (ok maybe 30mins or so)

WooHoo, that's what I call FUN!!! Back from Mulu, UNESCO world heritage site!! Biggest cave, fantastic Pinnacles and of course 'cute' little leeches, now probably too full from my blood to suck anymore people.

Now, I'm like 2 shades tanner, grown a little calve muscles and man, the best ABT workout EVER!!! Weeks of gym do not equate to just 7hrs of hiking. I can get used to this.

Of course, photos will be posted soon, complete with the travelogue that ALWAYS ALWAYS and NEVER FAILS to follow each of my adventure. Be patient. Good things are worth waiting for... I need time to recharge my battery, reshuffle my photos and regroup my thoughts for my next edition of interesting travelogue reads

Till then, stay put, sit tight, WAIT FOR IT!!!