Borneo, Malaysia

We flew early on the 3rd to Kuching, Sarawak, Borneo. Our taxi from the airport played “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton, the traffic stayed in the lines and obeyed speed laws, and there was no smog blocking the brilliant blue sky. Were we still in Southeast Asia?!? Upon arrival, I could see why Lonely Planet calls it “one of Southeast Asia’s gems”. We all agreed upon Karen’s statement that it resembled an Asian version of the Bahamas. We explored the city, walked the riverfront, and visited Fort Margherita.


Next, we splurged and stayed at a resort on Damai Beach, where we spent 2 days lounging poolside, watching the sunset over the South China Sea, and dressing up for dinner. We, also, took time to visit the Sarawak Cultural Village. The Village depicts 7 houses from different ethnic groups indigenous to Sarawak. We attended the cultural dance performance, where Randi was called on stage to demonstrate a blow gun by hitting a balloon. She did very well!

We returned to Kuching and visited the Matang Wildlife Center, where they rehabilitate Orangutans. We all fell for Peter, an 18 year old with intelligent eyes, who was found in a small cage at an illegal zoo. Unfortunately, he was too old to be rehabilitated into the wild.  At least now he enjoys more comfortable living conditions. We were told to closely follow the guide to the viewing point as they had just released a mother and her 2 infants into the open sanctuary. After peering into the forest, the guide ran towards us! Karen and I declined venturing    further into the forest. Randi braved it and saw some cute bears.

We spent a day at Bako National Park, a nature lover’s must! The rainforest, stone cliffs and rock formations, secluded beaches, and sparkling green water were all stunning. We took a 5.4 km hike through the rainforest, up and down hills, and over massive tree roots. Did I mention that it was over 100 degrees Fahrenheit?! The sun beat down brightly and we all went through our liter water bottles by the first half of the trek. Randi got quite dehydrated on the way back, but was on her feet again after a quick nap.  Karen and I had a frightening encounter with 20 silver-leaf monkeys while on a boardwalk 10 feet above ground. We stood still as they ran past us on each side!

We left Kuching by an express river boat. I enjoyed the 4 hour ride through the rainforest. Then, we took a bus from Sibu to Miri. In Miri, we visited a local beach where Randi got stung by a jellyfish! The local security police encouraged her to get to a hospital, so off we went to a local clinic. After a few pills for swelling and pain, she was much better! So after a stressful morning, we snuck into a hotel pool to relax for the rest of the day.

The people of Sarawak were so friendly. We appreciated the friendly smiles and greetings and were entertained by school children singing “All the Single Ladies” as we walked past. Our 7 days in Borneo exceeded my expectations.

~ Stacy