Two CNYs ago, we decided to go to Port Dickson. We thought that we wouldnt be stuck in the custom jam if we leave early. We left the house at about 4.30am but the other 2,000 Singaporeans had the same thought and we were stuck in the Singapore custom for 1.5hrs and then another 1.5 hours at the Malaysia custom. On top of that, there was an accident on the road and it took us a bloody total 8 hours to reach Port Dickson when it would usually take 3 hours. Boo.
The last CNY, we decided to take the ferry instead and headed off to Batam. No custom jam, right? Yes, but there was the ferry terminal jam and we were stuck for a good 2 hours, in an impossible snaking Q.
The safest option seems to be flying. However, whenever a flight is involved, the cost also rockets and the holiday season aggravates the situation. It makes little economic sense when we only have 4 days, max 5.
After much research, we decided to risk it and crossed the causeway again. However, we thought it would be safer if we do it only on Chu Er and returned on Monday; when whoever that needs to go Malaysia would have done so and returned. We also found the destination - Sinar Eco Resort. It actually wasnt our top choice. We wanted to go to another even more rustic farm only to be told that they are undergoing a major renovation. My brother's family was at the same farm in June 2017 and told us that it was a small farm with limited activities. That sets our expectations right but we pressed on. They eventually decided to join us.
As planned, we entered Malaysia on Chu Er after lunch. No traffic at the Singapore custom!
The traffic was heavier on the Malaysia side but it took less than 30 mins to clear it. Woohoo!
We no longer have the in car DVD player for the kids but downloaded movies in our phone in prep of the road trip. The kids were quietly on their headphone for most part of the journey. It was worth it to sacrifice our phone and remain photoless for the journey.
Our GPS screwed us and we had to follow my brother's car the entire way. The resort was hidden in some ulu place that is off the GPS. I read on blogs that the trick is to use the GPS to the nearest possible road and then there are clear signage that led the rest of the way. Overall the journey took less than 2 hours.
We arrived before checkin time but were told that the rooms were available. We were also told that bcos we were among the 1st to book the rooms, the resort is giving us a free upgrade. I have no idea how the "normal" room looks like and couldnt comment how great is the upgraded room.
The room came with 2 big double beds and can house more by adding on mattresses on the floor. Totally kampong style. There was no TV in the room but one in the living room, that was shared by the occupants. There were a total of 3 rooms and we were lucky that the other room was not taken. Otherwise, we would really pity the other family bcos we were so noisy throughout the stay. The rooms were installed with strong aircon and attached bathroom.
Once we had settled in, the kids were eagered to explore the farm.
The accommodation area and the farm area was separated by a tiny road. It was a short walk but buggies were provided.
Mini tours were provided after 3.30pm. We did our own exploratiin.
The little lambs were so cute and cuddly!
After a short self exploration under the hot sun, the pool was calling.
It was a small pool and the water was surprising cold. The kids are all competent swimmers and to keep ourselves warm, we engaged in a game of "monkey". I bet I burned more energy playing monkey than running on the treadmill; it was seriously exhausting.
The timing was perfect and we continued with the mini tour. It wasnt different from our self exploration but we had feeds this time.
We also attempted to catch some chicken. Some were successful (ok, Daddy Lim released the poor chicken soon after).
Some were not.
Others caught strange chicken.
After the fun, we took a rest in the room and started some serious physical challenge bcos the kids werr screaming boredom.
Some of us took "rest" very literally.
It was finally time for dinner and it was BBQ dinner with fried rice.
The rice was spicy and the kids' traveling best companion appeared.
The resort was crowded with other guests and there was a huge group who invested alot on fireworks. While they burnt away their money, we were treated to an spectacular display of fireworks.
The kids were treated to a game of pop pop instead. It was the little bombs that we used to play during CNY, which disappeared many years back. Then we retreated to the room but the fun didnt stop. We came up with games to entertain the kids, from physical challenges...
To murderer and heart attack.
We had to call it a night when our tired kids started fighting and kicking each other. It had been a looonnnggg day. Without a TV in the room and limited channels on the available TV, the downloaded movies came in handy. Oh, there was free WiFi but we never receive any signal while in the room.
Mummy Lim
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