GUNUNG LEDANG - PRINCESS OF MT. OPHIR

A Malaysian Legend

Legend says Centuries ago, in a dense forest, on the highest peak of the revered Gunung Ledang, in Johore, there lived a maiden. She was the most beautiful woman anyone had ever seen. No word in any vocabulary, could describe the beauty of this mysterious being.

Far across the ocean, people talked of her beauty and sweet humming lullabies echoing in the valleys, at sunrise and sunset.

Men came in droves, and waited days and nights to catch a glimpse of her. None could lay eyes
on  her, except the few who were of pure heart. People knew not who she was, or where she came from. She was said to be a nymph - the guardian of the mystical forest. They named her Puteri Gunung Ledang - Princess of  Mount Ophir.

She needed no wealth. Her spiritual wealth was far greater than any material wealth anyone could give. It was told that a powerful ruler from Malacca sent his entourage, with gifts of gold, jewels, silks, brocades, to seek her hand in marriage.  She intercepted them at the foot of the mountain, disguised as an old woman. To make her his wife, the ruler needed to fulfil 7 utterly impossible demands. 

He needed to build a golden bridge, and a silver bridge from Mt. Ophir to Malacca and deliver these items: * a bowl filled with tears from virgin maidens
* a container of juice from dried areca nuts
* Seven trays of hearts from mites

* Seven trays of hearts from mosquitoes

* A cup of the ruler’s blood

* A cup of his son’s blood

Surely, no one on earth could fulfill the wishes. It was a humiliating rejection to his proposal. Today, different versions of the tales of the legendary Princess are told in movies, plays and books. Below is my story.

Mystical mountains

Over decades, her presence was felt everywhere around the mountain. Those who entered with good intent to be close to nature, benefited immensely. They returned as changed beings - mentally and spiritually evolved.  They were inspired with secrets of life, on how to live in harmony with nature. The knowledge they gained was brought down for the purpose of good.

For Centuries tradition continues. Aside from Gunung Ledang, many other mystical mountains in Malaysia are sanctuaries for seekers of peace and spiritual enhancement. They arrive to meditate at different corners of the mountains. Many professed they benefited physically and mentally.

Strange phenomenon
Many who visited Gunung Ledang vouched that strange phenomenon occoured. It is an astute perception when laws of nature are abused, minor consequences do happen.

Hikers lost and separated in Gunung Ledang were found at remote and isolated parts of the jungle. Some suffered temporary amnesia, others disorientated, and confused.  On the positive side pleasant occurrences were reported. Hikers who were lost in the mountain, were mysteriously guided back to safety.

Today, thousands across the world, continue to flock to the mountain.  Some left, feeling disappointed the miracle they expected, did not occour. Non-believers mocked and said the stories were exaggerated to boost tourism in Malaysia.

Yet, despite scepticism, mystical Gunung Ledang continues to be a favourite destination for tourists, families, and adventure seekers, who desire to be close to Nature.  

Rituals and beliefs

Belief in the unseen, is an integral part of Eastern cultures. Unexplained phenomenon do occour although the mind refuses to accept.

It is a common belief when one enters holy places, jungles, or haunted places, respect must be given to the guardians/spiritual occupants of the place. One is expected to behave decently, and not to disturb, or vandalize the environment. Maiden trip to Gunung Ledang

I was fascinated with the place, since childhood.  Having heard different versions of the legend, I had my own presumptions.  Only in the 90s, that I took a maiden trip to Gunung Ledang.

The drive from my home in Kuala Lumpur was long, and weary. At last from afar, I caught my first glimpse of Gunung Ledang.  It amazed me. There stood before me, the majestic mountain that everyone fanticized. I felt proud to be born in this country, renown for its beauty, and mysticism.

In anticipation something miraculous would happen, I entered the jungle for the first time. I abided by the rules I was taught since childhood.

Every second, my eyes observed every detail surrounding me. I captured the visuals on video. I wondered when, and who lifted the gigantic protruding rocks elevated above me. Those pebbles in the river, weird looking branches, creeping plants, gigantic roots, were unique. I seated myself on the wooden bench, at a tended part of the jungle, and felt refreshed and energized.

It was daytime. I was not at all expecting anything magical to happen. I refused to join the rest of my family, and wanted to be on my own. It was a weekday and no one was around. It drizzled but I remained seated and enjoyed every moment of the experience being at one with Nature. We ate at the nearby cafe and enjoyed the day's outing and returned in the evening. Although, nothing exceptional or phenomenal happened, everyone felt physically and mentally relaxed being in the jungle, close to nature. It was to me more magical than I expected.

Thereon, several trips took place. Many guests from abroad, were occasionally entertained by our unique style of Malaysian hospitality. The first venue on the itinerary was Gunung Ledang. Every visitor was intrigued by the experience of being in this amazing forest.

Strange phenomenon

This time, our guests were close friends from England. They had never been in a tropical forest, and were excited to explore. We decided to stay overnight at the nearby chalets. We made plans to hike to the peak of the mountain the following morning. I told our friends nothing of the fables, or the phenominal happenings in Gunung Ledang. I presumed they would not believe, and might tease me for being superstitious. Our guests left with my family, I stayed behind. I hate leeches and snakes and was content lazing at the foot of the mountain. I had a drink in the cafe and returned to the room. Several hours passed and the group returned in the evening. They headed straight to the river to cool themselves while I took beautiful videos of them having fun. Dusk was approaching, the place was dimly lit and the surrounding jungles looked eerie. Our friend’s son insisted on staying in the running river water. I ushered everyone to shower and to meet for dinner in half hour. He lingered on in the dark. It worried his mum when he did not return. She screamed when she saw him grinning and waving at her. He joined us much later, around 9 pm, and looked refreshed

The following morning, everyone gathered for breakfast, except him. His mum checked and saw him in bed shivering. He complained of severe pain and blocked ears. We returned to Kuala Lumpur, and took him to see an ear specialist. His ears, throat and lungs were clear but he had other complaints which he told no one. The doctor gave him medicines and said he needed rest and not to travel. His problems persisted despite rest and medication. In reluctance, I revealed the many uncanny stories and tales of Gunung Ledang. He stared in shock and confided everything that happened from the time he stepped into the river. The impossible happened. Our friends carried back to England a gift that changed their very mindsets. Prologue

What happened to him will be told in another story, in the near future.

PENANG - NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS

The arrival of a New Year is looked upon differently by each individual. To the young, it could mean that the long awaited door to adulthood will be opened. To the elders, the joy of seeing children and grand-children growing up, when they will soon be living an independent life, away from family homes.

The year 2016 meant the beginning of yet another phase in life. I feel truly blessed being able to relish every moment of what’s left of life, in sound mind, body and spirit. Each New Year commences with a resolution to do better in every way, than what I did in previous years. Gratified I am, that all made possible for me, are by the will and charity of my Beloved Creator. 

(Photo on the right - taken from the balcony of my home in 2015). 

The Yesteryears

There are many fond memories to recall, ushering in the New Year. The most unique experience was a particular year during my childhood, in Penang. What I specifically remember is that, the New Year then was celebrated in a simple yet meaningful way. Families rejoiced, and bonded with one another alongside neighbours, regardless of religious, and cultural differences. 

It was a common belief that the New Year would best be welcomed with joy and laughter, so that throughout the year there would be plenty of smiles. It was a superstition that few would dare to ignore.  What if this was true? It cost nothing to believe, and no one was prepared to risk the repercussions.

The Esplanade 

Here families gathered daily for various recreations, and for all-year-round festivities. The Esplanade was the very site where the British landed and hoisted the Union Jack flag. Penang was declared its colony in 1786. Photo on the right - an effigy of Capt. Francis Light (1740-1794), the founder of Penang. 

This place is etched with many untold stories of  happiness and sorrow of the people of the island.

As a child, I had been here many times, and was really fascinated by the environment. It was particularly fun feeling the wind gently ruffling my hair, while the soothing sounds of pounding waves filled the air. (Right - little me, at age 5). 

Most fascinating sight for me was the cannons, that were strategically placed on the elevated grounds within the vicinity. While I stroked and wondered what they were, I heard many stories of bravery, and misery, that these cannons inflicted on the intruders of the island. 

There were many gory stories too, of the World War, when Japanese soldiers ruthlessly beheaded many citizens, and their allies. This ground was once soaked with the blood of patriots. It was eerie knowing that I was actually standing on the ground, where many souls perished.

New Year’s Eve

Preparations for the outing were made from the early day of the eve. Families prepared food and drinks to last until midnight. It was an excitement that the young could not understand, except that the normal regimented bedtime would be waived for the night.

There were public transports and trishaws. My grandfather’s home where I lived, was a walking distance to the Esplanade. It was fun walking with my grandparents, parents, accompanied by numerous relatives. They carried along the prepared food, drinks and weaved mats, for everyone to sit on.

We arrived at the Esplanade, just before sunset. A strategic spot directly facing a huge clock was conveniently chosen.

The adults began spreading the feast while we waited impatiently, for the food to be served.  We gobbled the food to our hearts content. Strangely, on that particular night, the food was much tastier than anything I had consumed at home.

Soon the huge field was filled with families, generously sharing what little they had with those seated next to them. It was an open-air picnic under a starry night, and the moon was smiling at me. The sky was clear and unpolluted, not like today.

People within the surrounding buildings, and clubs, mostly foreigners and expatriates, were in a celebratory mood, singing merrily. Of course then, I did not understand why they were making exceptional noises. In later years, I found out, that it was because they were highly tipsy!

After sunset, from the rear corner of the field, the Ministry of Information truck began screening foreign and local films by rotation. Nearby, live performances by local singers and comedians kept the crowd humoured and entertained. Children were allowed to roam around from one corner to the other and mingled with other families. Crime was rarely heard of then.

Every hour, the huge clock would pulsate vibrantly to the discomfort of my ears, as I was seated so close by. Then, the long awaited moment arrived. The atmosphere suddenly changed and climaxed into something totally unexpected, as the countdown began. Then the explosive sounds of human voices screaming with laughter, cheering, singing, followed by “Happy New Year” wishes,  echoed everywhere.  Adults were behaving like children, jumping and hugging one another. From across the street, the crowd in the surrounding buildings were merrily singing the “Auld lang syne”.

I could not understand what the fuss was all about. The excitement of being with the crowd, and sharing the auspicious moment with loved ones, was enough treat for me. Strangely, it was the first and only outing we had on New Year's eve, at this particular place. 

I later discovered what the night meant for me. It was the beginning of my school year, and with it came uniforms, books, shoes, friends and teachers!

Celebrations – today

Today, the New Year is celebrated lavishly throughout the world.  Countries compete with one another to be in the limelight, with psychedelic displays of fireworks, unique landscapes, and mind-boggling shows. The New Year is celebrated everywhere - in living rooms, at the palms of the hands, and on computers.

Penang that was once blessed with the ambience of serenity, is now a bustling city. Crime has increased. Unaccompanied children need to be cautious. Fanaticism separates families and neighbours. Family fun corrodes with progress and time - what a heavy price to pay!

For many decades, I avoided visits to Penang during New Year’s eves. Penang has since gained many uncomplimentary publicity for the misconduct of some unruly youngsters. They vandalized cars, mugged tourists  - in the spirit of celebration! 

Today, I’ve moved away from city life and at times missed the annual fireworks display that normally sprung a few feet above my balcony (picture above).

I am happier though being closer to nature - the home of these gentle vegans. This is the most perfect abode for peace and serenity, to retire.

Epilogue
When prompted, if I had ever wished that the clock is turned back to the good old days - without hesitation, my answer is “no”. I have no complaints. Progress is beneficial, if and when one knows how to blend, and benefit from both worlds.

SCENTS & AROMAS

The sense of smell may seem less relevant in comparison to the other senses. Yet, it is unimaginable not being able to smell the sweet scents of blooming flowers or perfumes, the musky salty sea air that invigorates the inner self, the mysterious scent of dense forests on rainy days, freshly mowed grass, and yummy, the aromas of hot steamy food that fill the air!  I feel truly blessed being able to enjoy life’s benevolence to the utmost. 

Today my story relates to scents, setting the stage for two most favoured flowers – the rose and jasmine, and my impressions of them.

ROSE – the flower of the Heavens

The rose takes me back in time to the innocent childhood years.  Flashes of rose shrubs meticulously lined the garden of my grandfather’s home, came into my mind. The garden was filled with sweet scents oozing from the roses and jasmines. How curious I was to touch the rose, and later regretted when the thorns pierced my little fingers.

I remember on many occasions, seeing my mother and aunties, with hairs beautified with roses.  The day I saw myself in the mirror with a red rose pinned to my hair, the agonizing pricked-finger incident instantly disappeared. Thereon, the rose became my favourite flower!

Roses come in many colours, but I love red roses the most. To me, roses really look their best when adorned in the gardens, where they are left to bloom and whither naturally.  What a shame to cut them off from their natural environment, coz they dry up quickly.  Roses satisfy the sense of smell, and sight. The sweet aroma  is invigorating, it generates clean, and positive auras to the environment.

As everyone knows, roses symbolize love and affection. A bouquet of roses delivered to the doorstep conveys unspoken love and affection in the most unassuming way, in any relationship. No word is needed to express one’s feelings - the rose speaks for itself.

I see the rose as a mysterious flower – beautiful, delicate, sweet, but dangerous. It must be handled carefully, or the thorns can hurt.  When mishandled, the petals drop, and it no longer looks desirable. Roses remind me of what a beautiful, and sensitive woman can be.  Like the rose that’s handled lovingly, she rewards the one she loves with contentment, and everlasting happiness!

Lets take a break and listen to Bobby Vinton with his red roses -  a 1962 nostalgia!

Spiritual and other uses

I was told that in ancient times, roses were referred to as the “Flower of the Heavens”. Roses were often used for spiritual purposes by many Eastern cultures. Rose petals immersed in water, sanctified with prayers, were used to cleanse the body of negative energies and impurities. Roses of different colours were often used to decorate bridal suites.  The petals were scattered over the bed, and around the room, to induce a conducive ambience for the bridal couple on their wedding night.

The rose has its own unique scent and flavour. Its aroma is often extracted, liquefied, and consumed for various purposes. Rose oil is commonly used for aromatherapy, and in perfumes. The scent of rose perfume, mingled with the body’s natural perspiration, create a unique and mysterious smell that cannot be duplicated by any other user. Rose water when added to bakeries, in particular cookies, provide added floral smell, with an unusual taste that’s loved by many.

How to make your own rose perfume

I learnt to make my own rose perfume during my teens.  It is simple, and if you are really enthusiastic, keep experimenting until you find the right strength of the aroma that you like. You can use water or oil as the base.

Most importantly, the roses selected, regardless of the colours, must be really fresh, and preferably direct from the garden or fresh from the florist.  You need to experiment a few times, to either let the mixture stand for a longer or shorter period. You can make your own floral perfume from other flowers as well. When you’re done experimenting, and know exactly what you like - bingo, you’ve made your very own brand of floral perfume!  Keep your homemade floral perfume in a cool, dry shelf in your own bedroom.

Rose perfume – water base

Choose the roses that are not too fully bloomed, preferably those that are about to open.  Remove the petals individually, and place them into a container. Crush the petals with a spoon. Cover the container, and let the mixture stand for a few hours. Pour the content (minus the crushed petals) into a glass perfume container, and you are ready to spray! This is a fast and simple method. You can also use this water to add the rose aroma to your cookies.

Rose perfume – oil base

Fill an air-tight glass jar with odourless oil.  Remove the petals and drop them altogether into the jar and close the lid quickly. Leave the jar in a cool dry place for 7 days. Pour the oil, minus the residues into an empty perfume bottle. Don’t touch the contents with your hands.  Spray – hurray, your rose perfume is now ready!

JASMINE – the mysterious flower

This flower is common within the Asian communities, especially among the Indians.  Jasmine flowers are often used to create garlands for weddings, and wreathes for funerals, etc. Unlike the rose, this flower does not symbolize love.

In ancient times, it was common for women to braid and entwine their hairs with jasmine flowers. The sweet scent of jasmine would last for days. Today, jasmine oil and incense stick are also used to enhance spiritual vibrations of homes.

Here’s a peculiar, but interesting story.  Previously, the jasmine scent gave me the creeps. It was probably because in the old days, Malay movies often associated jasmine scents with ghosts. Pontianak (female ghost) would adorn herself with jasmine flowers. The scent would indicate her presence, as she waited for her preys, under a jasmine tree, where she dwelled. In addition to those movies, a sadistic auntie used to frighten 4-year old me with ghost stories, and thought that it was hilarious. She would point at the jasmine tree in our garden, and said that a female ghost was waving at me.

Could these horror stories originate from the fact that jasmine flowers bloom at night? These horror stories put fears into me.  Subconsciously, some residual uneasiness lingered awhile in my growing years. I was later taught that should I sense uninvited presence from a jasmine visitor, how best to appease her – ha ha!

Ironically, jasmine flowers are often used to make funeral wreathes. Does jasmine ward away evil or entice evil? Incidentally, I often see on TV a public figure in Myanmar perpetually decorates her hair with jasmine flowers at every function she attends, even abroad. Is there some significance to this?  I wonder!

Many uses of Jasmine 

Jasmine flowers have been used for Centuries for health and beauty. In comparison, it has many more uses than the rose. It is claimed to have therapeutic benefits and is today widely used for medicinal purposes, beautification, and spiritual purposes.

Jasmine oils are used for aromatherapy, and in perfumes. Jasmine tea is regularly consumed worldwide. Dried jasmine flowers are often used as potpourri.

Jasmine flavoured tea

I’ve tried to make my own jasmine flavoured tea.  It is simple, and you can try it out, if you like.  Firstly, be sure that the jasmine flower that you choose is not poisonous, since there are many varieties, and some are definitely poisonous.

How to make your own jasmine flavoured tea

Take a small clean dry towel, preferably white and place it on a flat surface.  Pluck several fresh jasmine buds in the early morning. Arrange them together with some fresh tea leaves. Cover the contents with the same towel. Within a few hours, the tea will begin to absorb the jasmine scent.  In the evening the buds will open and the fragrance will be fully released. Remove all the flowers, and your jasmine flavoured tea is ready!

In conclusion

Although jasmine is still not my favourite flower, I’m no longer prejudiced.

SYDNEY ESCAPADES

Places

It is a known perception that people and places have energies and vibrations that can affect our persona. 

Some places do have explicit charm on people. Negatively, some have vibrations that can be sensed by people who are sensitive.

When I first set foot in Sydney, it was a dejavu for me. I felt as though I had stepped out of a dream. As days went by, I could feel myself energized and in symbiosis with the environment. Strangely though, I've travelled to many places, but none had this effect on me.  

I am now engulfed by a sudden urge to relive those memorable moments in Sydney. 

Environment

I can see myself relaxing on the balcony, breathing-in the cool, clean, jungle air, while watching screeching krakatoas, kookaburras, and parrots flew by. Some joyously perched on the surrounding trees looking really contented.  

These birds are all part and parcel of life in the neighbourhood. They are protected and not caged or kept as pets. The presence of various species of birds, within the compounds of private homes, and parks, are pride and joy to the residents.

There are strict laws prohibiting hunting and caging of wildlife.  However, it is not just the laws, but admirably most Aussies are nature lovers.  People are generally proud of their environment, and their country, and do their utmost in preserving nature. For nature-lovers, the Australian shores and forests, are certainly worth exploring.

Lifestyle in Sydney

Consecutively, I was greeted by Sydney's cold winters. It was a pleasant change to walk around with sweaters, and overcoats, which I don't get the chance to wear in Malaysia.  The cold weather that pierced through the layers of thick clothes,  did not really bother me.

I'm not a traitor, but there are many things about Sydney that I do like, especially the choice of lifestyles that are available. It is a cosmopolitan city, resident to people from all corners of the earth. One can enjoy city life, yet breathe unpolluted clean air. 

For sure, people here do more walking than we do in Malaysia. I observed that there were more elderly people out there in their 70s, 80s and even 90s, walking about, climbing steps, going to movies, and shows, etc. What gave them the energy and the willpower to sustain themselves physically and mentally - I wondered! Where are all the elders in Malaysia?  What is robbing us of our ability to enjoy a healthy lifestyle?  These questions kept spinning in my mind.

Commuting
Initially when commuting, I headed straight for the lift, but halted when I saw that those queuing were either the disabled, the pregnant, or the sick. Later, I began to enjoy walking the steep steps after realizing that I was fitter than I gave myself credit for. I really felt good tackling the kilometres of walkways between destinations. 

Here, people rarely drive to work. It is expensive to take cars into the City Centre, and is discouraged to ensure that the city is not polluted. Buses and trains are punctual, immaculate, and well maintained. These are relatively cheaper modes of travel. It is no status drop commuting in buses and trains. Even top executives do so, and walk the rest of the journey to their work places.

On week days, everyone is in a rush. One would be glared at or shoved out of the path for obstruction. Absolutely, no jaywalking or feet-dragging along the side-walks, while office crowds are on the move. The elders are mostly seen out and about, after the office crowds have dispersed. These daily walks do compensate to some extent, whatever is lacking in physical exertions, especially if one is deprived of time.  

Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge

These two places are symbolic of Sydney – the favourite destinations of near-most every tourist.

During the recent trip, a sight totally unexpected was awaiting. Sydney transformed into the exuberant and vibrant City for which it is known for. People from all corners converged for various ongoing festivities.

The Opera House is beautiful from the exterior and interior. There are regular events that are pretty costly but well worth the experience – something that one would not forget.  The "South Pacific” 1950s movie adaptation that we attended, was beautifully staged by international artists, with excellent vocals, and choreography. Cameras were not allowed during shows. I sneaked a shot of the interior, when I attended a conference (above). 

The City Centre
Around the City Centre, one can browse the Art 
Galleries, mooch around the Hay Market and China Town,  and get the feel of the mood of Hong Kong and China, where everything is available.   

Tourists need not visit remote areas to catch a glimpse of the Australian wildlife as the wildlife park located on the city side of Darling Harbour, provides a good substitute. 

There are varieties of food to choose from, ranging from fast food to gourmet dining. Prices are considerably reasonable, if one earns in Aussie dollar. People mostly don’t dine out often, except on weekends and special occasions.  I did not see any 24-hour eatery like those we have in Malaysia. Although this is less convenient, it's good to keep the mind off food, to sustain a healthy body and lifestyle!  

Asian food is available everywhere, so Asians won’t miss home food. I was surprised to find on the menu, roti canai, nasi biryani, rojak, etc. served at a café named “Mamak” in Chatswood.

Close to nature
There are many beautiful places within Sydney, and the surrounding suburbs, that are safe to spend leisure time. Here one can relish the scenic beauty of nature, alongside man-made habitat, and breathe-in the cool salty air. 

The Blue Mountains

The 75 km train ride to the Blue Mountains from Downtown Sydney, took us about 90 minutes. Along the way, we passed many interesting suburbs, landscaped jungles, and rugged terrains. 

During the journey, we also crossed a long stretch of never-ending bridge. For awhile, I saw nothing but water on both sides, and wondered, what if the water swelled up. My anxiety was put to rest, since this had never happened. The Blue Mountains is also accessible by road.

We finally arrived, and it began to drizzle. It was a sunny day when we left, and I was not properly attired. The sudden cold weather made me yearn for thick blankets.
Fortunately, the drizzles stopped after awhile.

Walking to the ‘3 sisters’ from the train station, was something that I would not attempt, although I was enticed to do so. The plan was aborted, and we took a bus instead. This was less time consuming.  

I've seen brochures of the ‘3 sisters’ but to be at the actual site, and viewed it at close range, was truly an amazing experience. 

Mountains and seas specifically, have unfailing, tremendous effects on me. I was lost in my own world. My whole being was in unison with the energy that surrounded me as I gazed in awe, at the majestic spectacle that stood before me.

The weeks of walking had me fully prepared for a little exploration along the winding pathways, to appreciate different views of the 3 sisters.

Without guides, it would be foolish to take on the dense jungles. Some have been lost, and perished in this wilderness - not forgetting the many wildlife occupants that can pose threats to visitors. By that I mean “snakes”. Fortunately, I spotted this little one (above) when we were
returning from the  2-hour walk. The dangerous specie could have been mistaken for a branch, from a withered tree. Undisturbed, it slithered away when curious onlookers gathered around. 

Breathtaking Bondi Beach 
I grew up near the sea, but surely, the beach was nothing in comparison to the beaches in Sydney and the surrounding suburbs. Bondi beach is well-known by tourists and surfers worldwide.


It was a sunny day, and after weeks of bleak weather, people headed for the shores to bask in the sun, and surf.  No one was bothered about ultra-violet rays, or ozone layers, but out to have a good time, to make the best of the good weather

Bouddi

On that particular day, I was not too enthusiastic to explore the coastal areas as the mid-afternoon sun was too much to bear. Furthermore, I did not have much calories to burn, as my breakfast was only toasts and black coffee. After some persuasion by my daughter, and a guarantee that I would be missing something really interesting, I then agreed. 

Reluctantly, I combed the 3 km stretch of beach in the blazing sun. While dragging my feet, I felt like a nomad walking on the sands of Sahara desert, searching for water.

Finally, I reached the destination. To my utter amazement it was worth every single step, and every uneven rock that I stepped on.  I was mystified. I had never seen anything this unique in my entire life. The place is truly a work of art - and, an exhibition of Nature’s Creativity. Strangely however, this place is not known to many.

At the extreme end, about a kilometre further, there are more beautifully carved rocks, formed through ages of wave-movements. I was tempted to
venture, but my eyes had to give way to my rumbling tummy, since it was past 2 pm. 

Manly trip

Manly is another favourite tourist-destination. The ferry ride to and fro, especially the evening ride home was an enjoyable experience.  As the ferry approached the well-lighted buildings of Sydney City Centre, it was a sight to remember. Slowly, the Opera House, and the Sydney Bridge came into view.  Looking distinct, they truly earned their image as the pride of Australia. I was happy to capture the visuals on video.

Most memorable, was the privilege to meet a wonderful family, whose magical charm, and warm hospitality, touched me. It was sad to bid farewell to the two lovely kids.
  

Woy Woy
The place reminded me of Fremantle in Perth that we visited many years ago. Everything about Woy Woy is unique – its name, including this little shop with its variety of decorative items and new age stuff.

Surprisingly, the quaint town was pretty quiet on a weekend. The locals were courteous, but curious of unfamiliar visitors. I somewhat liked the feel of this place, as it was simple and unpretentious.

In addition to the delicious freshly cooked seafood served in this restaurant (right), the main attraction of Woy Woy is obviously the Pelicans. 

These regular guests flock the place and the surrounding areas throughout the day, from the wee hours.

We lingered on to see what was promised to be a pleasant experience.  At exactly 3pm the birds assembled for their daily meal. The place became alive with their honking, and screeching. These pictures speak a thousand words.

Epilogue
In all corners of the earth, there are exotic places. Every little pebble on the beach has its uniqueness, and individuality. It is how we perceive and appreciate what we see, that really matters.

I am happy to have lived those memorable moments relishing the beauty of nature that Sydney has to offer.  Sydney, will always have a special place in my heart!