Cameron Highlands--What a relief! After traveling for 2 months in the heat and humidity Donielle and I finally reached the Cameron Highlands. The highlands are about 5000 ft above sea level which give them a year round climate where temperatures rarely go above 77F or below 52 F. The weather was refreshing and cool and we even required a jacket in the evening. The British discovered the Cameron Hıghlands near the end of the 19th century and found the cool climate to be perfect for growing many types of fruits and vegetables. Of all the plants that thrived, tea was preferred by the British and soon thereafter the first plantations were planted which now produce some of the worlds best tea blends The region is now considered the largest hill resort in the country.
Thıngs to Do: Trekkıng!!! This is a Cameron Highlands must do especially if you have been traveling through the heat and humidity of Southeast Asia. You will not be sweating within minutes of walking outside! Many of the hikes reward you with spectacular views of the surrounding tea plantations and fruit farms. The hike that eventually takes you into the mountains before ending at the Boh Tea Estate is highly recommended. There is also a short hike which takes three hours round trip from Tanah Rata to the beautiful Robinson falls.
Eating: Lets start with the Steamboat: which is a boiling pot of broth heated via small charcoals. Its offered at many of the Chinese restaurants in town. Marinated cuts of chicken, beef or fish are served to the patrons which are then put into the boiling broth. Vegetables are usually thrown in as well, but the main flavors come from the soup and proteins. İts similar to fondue but at the completion of the cooking you eat meat and vegetables with the broth. Another surprising fınd was the Indian banana leaf set. A typical banana leaf set consists of a protein of mutton, chicken or beef which is then served with a variety of curry sauces and an assortment of spiced potatoes and vegetables served on a banana leaf. If you are feeling really adventurous you could try eating "Malay Style" which involves eating with your fingers--sauces and all. Indian food is superb in Malaysia. Donielle (who had never liked Indian food before) and I fell in love with the various Indian dishes offered in Tanah Rata. Make sure to try the Naan bread with the Tandori chicken (which should be cooked in a clay oven). There are about 4 Indian restaurants on the main drag and the quality of food is very good.
Where to Stay: Daniels lodge....It is a very simple place but the guys who manage the place are very nice, it's super cheap and they have a bonfire every night in the bar. A warning to our friends though, its definitely a backpacker kind of place AND we dont recommend the shared bathrooms--dont look very clean and they are basically outdoors.
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