My journey would take me to a town called Tanah Rata. It's located in the smallest district of Padang, otherwise known as the Cameron Highlands. With an average of 1700 meters, the area holds many tea plantations, strawberry fields, and lovely jungle hikes. While I didn't capture all of the pictures and feelings that I now wish I had, I do have details to share about this beautiful escape.
As I had journeyed from the very crazy SE Asian metropolis of Kuala Lumpur, I was relieved to find an impressive little cottage tucked away in a back street in Tanah Rata. While quaint and small, the hostel was cozy and full of backpackers from all over the world. The beds were loft style, hidden in the attic that a short wooden ladder led to. My favorite thing about Asian countries is the shoe rule: we always leave our shoes at the door. The same goes for this hostel - it keeps everything clean, but also it makes it feel a bit more like home. As my mom says, "Take your shoes off and stay awhile."
I did just that. For three full days, I would get lost in the jungle trails leading to mountain tops, tea plantations, waterfalls and strawberry farms. I met an array of people from various countries. We spoke about the world, our travels, our families and our friends. We shared terrific Indo-Malay meals with our hands and drank Tiger beer in the parking lot staring up at the stars. Time didn't matter. There were no plans. There was just us and the beautiful world around us and while it may sound silly and cliché to say that anyone who has had this experience knows what I am describing.
If you ever make it to Malaysia, venture to the Highlands and bring a couple extra pairs of socks. Be prepared to occupy your time with the outdoors surrounding you. While I won't fail to remind you that everyone is not your friend and not to hike alone, it's nice to go off the grid here and unplug..