A Simple Village Escape: Family Stream Swim Behind Our Farmhouse

There's something truly magical about being close to nature — especially when it's just a few steps behind our own family farmhouse. 🌿

Last weekend, I decided to bring my children on a mini "adventure" — not to some faraway place, but to the clear, refreshing stream that winds through the back of our village land. Armed with just a few plastic nets, some extra clothes, and a spirit for discovery, we set off.

The air was fresh, the forest alive with the soothing sounds of water tumbling over mossy rocks. Tiny waterfalls trickled down the stones, creating little pools that were just perfect for the kids to splash around. Barefoot and giggling, they jumped from rock to rock, their nets ready to scoop up any "treasures" the stream might offer — little fish, leaves, or even a shiny pebble.

As I watched them — my daughter carefully sitting on a smooth stone, my son wading bravely across the shallow waters — I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. No fancy theme parks, no long car rides, just pure, simple joy in nature's playground.

We even spotted a beautifully camouflaged frog resting on a mossy log! Nature, always full of surprises.

At one point, under the warm dappled sunlight, we shared juicy mangosteens we had brought along. Sitting by the water, munching on fruits straight from our farm — it felt like a scene out of a storybook.

This little outing reminded me that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones closest to home. It's not about how far you travel; it's about who you’re with, and the memories you create together.

As the kids laughed and played, I could see it — this was a memory they would keep forever: the day they caught "a big fish" (even if it was just a leaf), the time they climbed mossy boulders like little explorers, the sweet taste of mangosteen under the jungle canopy.

A simple village escape. A priceless family bonding moment. A little reminder that happiness often flows like a clear stream — right outside your door. 💚

Until the next adventure, 

Wilson Chin
The Borneo Explorer

A Hike to Remember (and Laugh About) Near Sarawak Border

So, my hiking buddy Michael and I decided to tackle the KlingKang range near the Sarawak border on Christmas Day. Why? Because we're apparently gluttons for punishment and love the idea of mud being our new fashion statement. 🏞️💩

Out of nowhere, we stumbled upon a grove of durian trees. Now, if you're not familiar with durians, they're those spiky fruits that smell like heaven and taste like... well, something you'd either love or hate. And guess what? Some had fallen fresh from the trees! We looked at each other, shrugged, and dug in. Verdict? Sweet, creamy, and utterly delicious. Michael even joked that we should start a durian stand. 😂

We set off early, thinking we were all cool and prepared. Nope! The trail had other plans. Mud, glorious mud! It was like the mountain decided to give us a spa day, minus the relaxation. Every step was a gamble – will I slip or won't I? Spoiler: I slipped. Multiple times. Michael found it hilarious, of course. 😏

we continued our trek and stumbled upon something truly amazing – a mini water catchment project. This wasn't just any project; it was a community effort with the locals and an NGO to supply fresh water to a nearby village. We were blown away by the ingenuity and dedication. Plus, the stream was beautiful, like something out of a fairy tale.

Feeling adventurous, we decided to explore further upstream. The water was so clear, we could see fish darting around. It was like nature's own aquarium! We spotted all sorts of interesting flora, and I even tried to identify some (with limited success, I might add). The whole experience was so serene and beautiful, it felt like we were in a different world.

By the end of our hike, we were tired but exhilarated. The KlingKang range had tested our limits, but it also rewarded us with unforgettable experiences and laughter. If you're ever near the Sarawak border, I highly recommend this hike. Just don't forget your sense of humor and a taste for durians!

Thanks for reading, and until next time, keep exploring and laughing! 😄

Check out more adventures on my blog at wilsonchin.blogspot.com!

 

Exploring the Mysteries of Gua Sirih: A Caving Adventure in Sarawak

I went on a caving trip with my brother to Gua Sirih, a cave near Serian known for its archaeological significance and as a site for bird's nest collection. This cave wasn't just any cave; it housed ancient wall paintings and artifacts buried deep within.

As we descended, a long wooden staircase maintained by the Sarawak Museum Department led us into the cave's embrace. The walls were adorned with nature's artwork—tree vines wrapping around boulders, a testament to time's passage.

The archaeological area, fenced off, revealed ancient wall paintings, depicting human and bird shapes, a silent testament to the cave's historical significance.

Turning on my headlamp, I was immediately besieged by flying bugs, a lesson learned for next time: wear a jacket with a mosquito net. The bats, however, were less intrusive, their silhouettes darting through the light, their squeaks filling the cavernous space.

The cave floor was uneven, with muddy patches where tiny streams flowed. Gloves would have been handy to avoid the muck that clung to our hands. The sight of a waterfall inside the cave was mesmerizing, the water cascading with such force, it seemed alive.

A mysterious breeze in one section, where the chamber narrowed like a bottleneck, left us puzzled. Even our guide was at a loss, adding to the cave's enigma.

Nature's art was everywhere—the stalactites, cave spiders as large as an adult's palm, and a peculiar creature resembling a scorpion but lacking its venomous tail, all contributed to the surreal experience.

As we ventured deeper, the cave's chambers grew narrower, with deep cracks that demanded careful navigation. One misstep here could lead to a fall, a stark reminder of the cave's unforgiving nature.

The water stream section, with its quick-flowing water into a narrow tunnel, marked the end of our exploration. Curiosity about where the water led was strong, but safety dictated our retreat.

Emerging from Gua Sirih, we cleaned up by a nearby stream, reflecting on the day's adventure. The cave's complexity, its hidden waterfall, and the unexplored depths left me yearning for more. Perhaps one day, equipped with the right gear, I'll return to uncover more of its secrets.

As the first light of dawn crept through the canopy, our local guide, with the wisdom of the land etched into his weathered face, led my brother and me through the lush tapestry of a sprawling plantation. Each step we took was a verse in the silent song of the wilderness, our hearts beating in rhythm with the earth, until finally, we stood at the yawning mouth of the cave, where the known world whispered secrets to the shadows within.

Gazing upon the ancient tapestry of tree vines that lovingly embraced the boulder and cascaded over the cave wall, one couldn't help but marvel at nature's patient artistry, a masterpiece sculpted over eons with a brush of time itself.

Venturing into the cave's embrace, we were enveloped by a darkness thick with humidity and the pungent aroma of guano. Yet, what truly tested my patience was the aerial ballet of flying bugs, performing an impromptu dance around my headlamp, turning my view into a swirling, insect-filled disco.

Year 1998 in Chinese writting

Amidst the subterranean symphony of trickling water, ranging from gentle whispers to more assertive gurgles, I spotted tiny shrimp darting through the streams. Recalling those Nat Geo documentaries, I mused over how these cave dwellers, often blind, navigate their world through an orchestra of alternative senses, detecting the presence of others in a dance of survival hidden from sight.

A mini pond inside the cave

After our spelunking sojourn, we emerged into the light and made our way to a nearby stream, where the cool, clear water served as our natural shower, washing away the cave's embrace and reviving us with its gentle flow.

Watch My Video Here