Two days off in Cherating Beach, Malaysia. Not even a town, just a side road off of Hwy 3 that links up on both ends. A cool, chilled out place with surfers catching the breakers, long hair/dreadlocks, board shorts and strict Muslims with skin and head coverings (both men and women, but mostly women). In the shops, there are halter tops, sarongs, brightly colored burqas and tie dye. The accommodation ranges in price but all are close to the beach and many are private chalets with air-con and western toilet (may or may not flush). Intermingled among shops and chalets are restaurants with open air seating. Only a roof to protect from the monsoon rains. The menus are also presented in English and some restaurants serve western style foods whilst others are strict Muslim meals; No Beer!
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| We wondered how an old milk carton had gotten on the roof. Cheeky monkeys. |
In the morning, bare-foot Rastas carry their boards to the beach, while hard working, Muslim women, sweep out the shops and prepare food.
What an interesting place where two seemingly opposite views and values converge. So we ask ourselves, is this place a strict Muslim community with a rowdy hip side? Or, a place with a laid back beach bum attitude and a religious conscience.
Either way, this place is great. It's the first place we've been with real character. Every other town on the east coast of Malaysia seems the same, not much variation. Here, it's pleasant change.
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| Tiny little frogs were everywhere. |
For our last night, we'll meet up with some new friends, have dinner and a few beers before we retire to the road tomorrow. We continue to head north on Hwy 3 to Kota Bahru.
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