We got lost numerous times. We unnecessarily walked several kilometers under the scorching sun while carrying heavy backpacks. At one point or another, we experienced pain in our feet or simply all over our bodies. We just wanted to give in to the excruciating need for a comfy bed or the craving to fill up an empty tummy. We could have yelled at each other and simply gave up. Yet, we did not falter. We tested our limits and pushed ourselves further. The hits and misses thought me a lot of things.
Now, we will let out a laugh or two whenever we see a Maybank building. Do you get chills from remembering that empty parking lot and those audacious monstrous rats? Ah, our first mishap. It was like a scene from a horror movie where one by one they all get murdered. Thank goodness, we were spared to complete the 6-day adventure.
We learned never to prejudge a ticket’s worth without knowing the distance we’re gonna cross. We also learned that hopping on buses simply because we’re impatient or too tired can sometimes work to our advantage. Let’s take more chances. A leap of faith. But maps are still essential don’t get me wrong. Though it was at the last leg of our trip when we finally got the hang of switching lanes at the train station and picking the right buses. Better late than never? Speaking of never, never trust locals when they say “It’s really near.” Different perspective (or perhaps metric system 1km = 10,000meters). Go with your gut.
We devoured as much local food as we can. We wanted to taste culture! The vegan food was to die for, ayt? The rotti, the milk teas, rice balls and the biryani. But we are guilty of eating an endangered animal at Jalan Alor. May God have mercy on our souls.
How could we forget that michelin baby with uber cool hipster parents in Chinatown? Or that quirky and funny Chinese guy who married a Filipina and who enlightened us why locals easily identified our race? Or that Singaporean kid who played with the guests and put a curse on me while visiting her country? We have pen memorabilia for answering survey about milk.
We feasted our eyes on so many merchandise along the streets of Malacca. It is such a wonderful place. If you are an artist or just a romantic, let this place sweep you off your feet.
We had our 2nd (3rd? 4th?) childhood at Universal Studios. We shouted, cried, and laughed all at the same time while riding the rollercoaster. We’ll tell our grandchildren how epic the Mummy ride was. Yes, to our future selves, may we not let the child in us die.
The twists and turns, the bumps and the roundabouts all recorded in 3 mins or so. Thank you for the memories that would last a lifetime! To the Awas Ladies, my deepest gratitude.
(c) Ausie Molina
- Malaysia, The Second Time Around
- Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur: Step-Inn Guesthouse
- Kuala Lumpur, Places to Visit in a Day and a Half
- Melaka: My 24 hour Love Affair
- Where to Stay in Melaka: Tidur-Tidur Guesthouse (next)
- Buses and Trains… in Singapore (soon)
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Stay in Sleepy Kiwi Hostel Singapore (soon)
- 2nd Childhood at Universal Studios Singapore (soon)
- 6 Days Backpacking | Full Itinerary and Budget Report (soon)