Monday, February 19, 2007

Borneo's Kinabalu National Park - Getaway Back Home

Time is of the essence. How many times we come across this phrase but yet to come to its real meaning until we realise that it has passes us by. With the hustle and bustle of life in the city, time is one thing that most often than not, comes unnoticed until it slaps us right in the face. Yes, once we pondered this fact, only then we realized that the kids have grown up or the fact that we have aged progressively.

During the kids' long holiday in November 2004, we came across a rare opportunity to have quality family time. Lucky enough to acquire a booking during the school holiday, we packed and went up to our rented cabin on the foot hill of Mount Kinabalu, the Kota Kinabalu National Park. The kids were ecstatic, they get to wear their cold attires and we, well, it was a much needed break from the mambo jumbo down hill.

The cabin had a spectacular view of Mount Kinabalu, a feast to the eyes. It was cosy and spacious enough to fit two families. We cooked our dinner in front of the fire place, an amazing experience to the kids.

Daylight took us to a walk around the park. A most challenging task to say the least to one that only hopped in and out of a car, day in and day out. But all those aching muscles, to keep up with the kids' young and spirited muscles and most notably the piggyback walk with the small one is compensated, the mountain views and peaceful ambiance are a killer. And to enjoy that with your precious ones are the most heavenly moments.

We had a blast of a time and after spending two nights at the mountains, we headed back to town, exhausted yet fulfilled. We promised the kids a return once the opportunity comes a knocking. It has taken quite a while to undergo that journey again but the chance of a repeat is most likely this year round.

A return to the place that my 3-year old son called the place of the dinosaur trees.

Woodlands


The Management of the housing estate-Melinsung Summerbay Resort Apertment, Papar did a wonderful job of turning this once harsh and inaccesible area to a wonderful woodlands.
It is impressive that they were able to keep the original trees around. The forest floor is now covered with flower plants and a joy to watch when they bloom. It is cool underneath these local pine trees and is especially useful in a warm sunny day.