Paradise Found

Location: Kota Bharu., Malaysia
Date: May 25, 2000

Greetings from Kota Bharu (KB)! We decided since we have spent the last week "vegging" on white sand beaches that we should send an update. Besides if we waited longer than that there would be too much stuff to write about! KB is a nice place but it's going to be a short stopover before we head back South to the Cameron Highlands (can't wait for some nice cool weather!).

We are currently in the state of Kelantan which is Malaysia at its most Malayan, a center for Malay culture, crafts, and religion. We just found out today that there is a Sultan (traditional ruler) for each state. The kingship is rotated between these sultans every five years so everyone gets a turn. Like I said it's mostly a traditional position since the country is governed by the Prime Minister (similar to those in British Commonwealth countries). The Sultans just buy expensive cars and drive really fast.

So where have we been? We have been enjoying the good life of the Perhentian Islands. The islands, Pulau Perhentian Kecil and Besur, are just 20 km off the coast. Out of all the tropical places we have visited on this trip, these islands are the most beautiful, with crystal clear aquamarine waters and white sand beaches. We didn't really plan on staying for too long but got sucked into the relaxed lifestyle. Although it's filled with backpackers (it was hard to find accommodation at first) you can still get away from the crowds. We spent most of our time reading, writing, snorkeling and showering (it's hot!). The snorkeling was first rate with lots of fish and plenty of black tipped reef sharks. No turtles this time but we did see a sting ray. At night we ate at one of the many beachside restaurants that served great BBQ fish like barracuda, marlin, kingfish, shark, and stingray for about US. You can dive here. Apparently it's very nice but we decided to save it for Thailand. Besides the snorkeling just can't be beat (it's free)! In Malaysia we have been spending about US per day for the two of us. It's a reasonable first world country to check out.

Before we ventured out to the islands we spent 3 days at the beach town of Cherating, enjoying a local market and friendly Malay hospitality. The highlight for Linda was watching a giant green turtle haul itself onto the beach, lay 108 ping pong shaped eggs, cover them with sand and return to the sea. It was an exhausting 2 hour ordeal. Incredible act of nature.

We love to hear from everyone and hope everyone is looking forward to summer fast approaching. Our travel days are flying by and will see everyone at home soon.

All our love (and Kisses),
Linda and Mike

PS-do we have video CDs in the states? CDs with movies on them? They are everywhere here?

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