Quadbiking Experience in Kiulu

Location: Kg Mantob, Kiulu

Kiulu Valley had officially opened the Quad bike activity to the local. And I am super glad to know that we are the first group after the launching! Six of us arrives at Kg. Mantob at 8.30am. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a warm welcome by the local community. After enjoying light refreshment at Anty Nuriah’s place, we were given a safety briefing by Pius-our guide [including signing the indemnity form]. Thereafter, we proceed to the open field where we have the opportunity to do a practice run.

 We enjoy the light refreshment.

Pius giving safety briefing and signing the indemnity form.

Safety and 'how-to' briefing by marshal in charge - (Johari)

After few rounds of practice run, we were ready to embark on a three-hour guided quad bike adventure. It was an exciting moment for the Kg Mantob community and also for us. Most of us had never done the Quad bike activity before. This is definitely something different from our normal weekend.

Let the journey began.

Few rounds at the field to familiarize with the quad bike.

Ready to start the journey!!

Final briefing by Pius.

Passing through bridge (junction to Kg. Dumpiring).

The group departed from Kg. Mantob around 9am in the morning. The weather was nice and everyone was excited and thrilled to get started. The group was lead by Johari who is the marshal in charge that day. He went with his motorcycle, while a four-wheel drive escorted the group from behind in case for emergency.

The route ended when the gravel road ends. The distance covered is approximately 11.3km. The group takes a break for a while before returning to the Fig Tree for lunch.

Passing scenic view of the valley.

Downhill and uphill road.

First stop to see the barking deer.

Visiting the local community.

 Journey continued for another 3km.

Windy road. Look easy but it is quite challenging.

End of the gravel road.

Return back to Fig Tree.

Uphill road.

Everyone can drive.  

A ‘must place to stop’ for group photo.

 The group stopped at the last checkpoint to see the scenic view of the three villages. Kg. Mantob, Kg. Dumpiring and Kg. Pinagon Baru, where they can also see the Fig Tree.

At the eco lodge - Fig Tree for lunch.

Lunch time!! Enjoying the scrumptious lunch prepared by the local.

Lunch at the Fig Tree is followed by interpretation by Pius regarding the tour package available and also the Community Based Tourism in the area. The session also gives opportunity for the participants to give feedback on the quad bike activity.

Bid farewell. Group photo is a must.

Finally, it was a wrap for the day full of adventure. Seeing the beautiful country side while driving a quad bike up and down the gently sloping hills, passing through the villages and beyond with views of the paddy fields, plantations, jungles and native animals was truly a wonderful and precious experience. We departed back to Kota Kinabalu at 2.30pm.

Hounon Ridge Farmstay & Camping (Site) at Bundu Tuhan

Earlier this year (i forgot when, will update soon), I join my church's praise and worship team for a weekend retreat at Hounon Ridge Farmstay.

I have to say that I am impressed with the place, the facilities offered and most importantly the view! 

It is very relaxing, refreshing and inspiring weekend that I've had. I just came back from Down-Under early March this year and it was a perfect getaway after years of study. I met my old friends and make a new one as well!

I think this place is great for meeting especially for  families, friends, professional group, church conference or anyone who just want to get away from the bustling cities. Not only that, they also offer numbers of outdoor activities just for enjoyment.

The view is fantastic! Especially the majestic Mt. Kinabalu.

Few things to consider before turning 30

I came across with this article yesterday. I bet it is good to share it here. Long story short, one of our guest who'd been to our lodge in Sukau , Kinabatangaan River had written their experience and put it in their magazine. Nicely written! You could read them here.

I went further to read the rest of their article and I am amazed and inspired of their travelling stories. This one really catch my attention. Bucket list before 30

Look forward to tick off some of the list!

Tea time with a view.

Last weekend, I got the chance to catch up with my dear friend at my hometown. At first I thought that we just going to catch up with one another.

My friend pick me up at home around 3pm and we head out to town, find a place where we could sit and drink for our tea time. We decided to stop by at Anjung Selera. Near by is the Ranau's Night Market whilst on the right end is the fish and vegetable market, selling variety of local produces. I will update the pictures sometime later.

As I walk around the restaurant, I noticed that they have a small balcony at the back. As my curiosity kicks in, I went there and I am amazed with the view that I often TAKE FOR GRANTED!

Quickly I get my phone and snap some pictures. But I particularly like this one.

In front is the town's library.  Close by is the kindergarten. On the far left, stood the beautiful mosque. I like this view as you can see the town is surrounded by hills and green forest. Its a bit cloudy that day. Its been raining cats and dogs for a few days.

I look forward to take more pictures of my hometown!

Travelling involves a journey, a journey in space, a journey through time, a psychological journey into an alien world. It resembles Alice’s trip through the looking glass into another universe where the ‘rules’ may be turned on their heads and people may behave in very different ways. Fascinated by what I saw and learnt when I travel away, I am compelled to express what they made me feel through writing.