Leaving Malaysia and off to Thailand

Location: Penang, Malaysia
Date: June 1, 2001

Hello everyone,

We are back with another update. Nothing has changed about Malaysia, still wonderful and the people amazing. Unfortunately with only 3.5 months left on our trip, we are off to Hatyai, Thailand tomorrow. Then it is off to the islands of Ko Pha Ngan, and Ko Tao. They are very popular with the backpacker crowd, because of the cult type novel "The Beach", by Alex Garland (read the book, much better than the movie).

We are currently on the island of Penang, in the state of the same name, on Malaysia's Northwest coast. Georgetown, the main city, is an eclectic mix of culture, lots of color and energy. The British founded the city in 1796 as a port for the trade of goods between China, India and Europe. We have enjoyed wandering thru chinatown and eating Indian food with our hands. Thali is an all you can eat rice and curry dish. They load rice onto a banana leaf and you knead the curry into the rice with your right hand and scoop gently into the mouth. When the leaf is getting low they come by with more food. We left very full. It is important to eat with your right hand, because you use your left for toilet matters. All part of the culture.

Currently occuring here in Penang, are the Malaysian Games, Sukma 2000. Last night we watched Wushu competition. It is sport originating in China and is comparable to a self defence martial art, kind of like Kung Fu. Hard to describe. The competitors are judged on the precision and agility of the strong moves. Lots of kicks and flying thru the air. Mike's favorite was the choreographed roll in the air, with a soft landing on the rug. One group even used swords.

Before coming here we spent 3 days tramping thru tea plantations and jungle in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia's largest hill station. Much of the tea consumed in SE Asia is produced here. The rolling hills are full of what looks like a bright green maze or a puzzle. Beautiful postcard perfect scenery and cool high mountain temperatures. So nice to be away from the heat and humidity.

We spent one afternoon with a 4th, 5th and 6th grade muslim school group. Their bus was full of pillows, plastic bags of Malay food, junk souveniers, and rock videos blaring on the tv. They were excited to be touring around with 2 Americans, and we had our photo taken as if we were movie stars.

We look forward to Thailand and the adventures ahead. Mike's hair is probably longer than mine now. We will be home to share our photos and stories with everyone in September.

Miss you all,
Love,
Linda and Mike

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