Lydia's recent excursion to Kampong Kelong, a traditional fishing village on stilts, was an unforgettable experience for her and her family. As a gesture of gratitude, Lydia's father's good friend arranged the trip, bringing them to his cousin's boat in a remote Kampong. This article delves into Lydia's thrilling journey, family bonding moments, and the admiration she developed for her fearless and independent grandmother.
A Thrilling Journey:
The initial boat ride to the Kelong was met with excitement and apprehension. The absence of people in Kampong and the surrounding lake stirred some safety concerns.
"The journey to the kelongs on the boat was scary initially because we barely saw anyone at the Kampong, and there wasn't anyone in the lake either. So, I was a bit worried about my safety," Lydia confessed. "But it was fun once I got used to it. I am a thrill seeker, so it was pretty thrilling."
However, Lydia's thrill-seeking nature soon took over, and she found the experience immensely enjoyable. The 30-minute boat ride to the Kelong was filled with adventure and offered an opportunity to witness how the Kampong people fished mussels and farmed fish. The boat trip seemed to be a family business, as Lydia recalls her father's friend guiding them through the straits like a knowledgeable tour guide.
Grandparent's Involvement:
Lydia's grandparents were also invited on this special trip. However, due to accessibility concerns and his frailty, Lydia's grandfather decided not to join. Despite this, Lydia's grandmother, known for her adventurous spirit and independence, eagerly embraced the opportunity to embark on this unique journey. While fishing was not part of her grandparents' personal history, this was the first time for the entire family to travel on such a small boat and explore the Johor Straits together.
An Empty, Yet Serene Setting:
Arriving at the Kelong, Lydia couldn't help but notice the sparse population and tranquillity of the area. The Kelongs and fish farms on the straits were not as bustling as she had imagined. Reflecting on her journey, Lydia drew similarities to her previous trip to Hanoi, Vietnam.
“At some point, it kind of reminded me of my trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, and the trip on the ferry because it was sunny, the water was glistening, and there was quite a lot of greenery surrounding the lake/river," Lydia reminisced.”
Grandma's Swag and Carefree Spirit:
Lydia found her grandmother's appearance particularly memorable. With her shades and hat, she exuded a swag and carefree attitude, radiating positive vibes throughout the journey. Her grandma's unwavering confidence and lack of worries had a calming effect on Lydia, making her feel more at ease.
The Boat Ride and Unexpected Surprises:
One of the surprising aspects of the boat ride was its speed and occasional bumpiness. The lack of proper seating, with stools and plastic chairs scattered around the boat, initially raised safety concerns for Lydia.
“I think what surprised me was how fast the boat went and how bumpy it was," Lydia recalled. "There were no proper seats on the boat; we had to sit on stools or plastic chairs that weren't exactly tied down. I had a fear of falling off, but nothing like that happened. We managed it by being in the comfort of each other's presence."
It was within this atmosphere that they could enjoy the cool breeze and embrace the thrilling ride together.
A Seafood Feast:
At the end of their adventure, the family visited a restaurant on stilts at the straits. Although the exact location remains unclear, Lydia vividly recalls the mouthwatering seafood feast they indulged in.
“At the end of this trip, we visited a restaurant on Stilts located at the straits, and we ate seafood. Oh my goodness, it was so good! The crabs were tender and fresh." says Lydia. She is also allergic to some seafood but took the chance, which is something we wouldnt recommend.
Unforgettable Memories and Admiration:
For Lydia, this trip was a series of firsts. Exploring the Kampong Kelong alongside her grandmother created lasting memories. Witnessing her grandmother's fearlessness and independence, Lydia's admiration for her grew even stronger.
“I think since it was a first-time experience for everybody, and I've never done this before with my grandma, it's memorable," Lydia expressed. "I realised how fearless and independent she is. I loved how she had no worries at all, which reassured me that I'd be fine. So, I admire her even more."
Lydia's adventure at the Kampong Kelong provided an incredible opportunity for family bonding and created cherished memories. Overcoming initial concerns, the boat ride turned into a thrilling experience, accompanied by breathtaking views and the presence of loved ones. The seafood feast and the comforting nap on the boat added to the trip's uniqueness. Above all, Lydia's admiration for her grandmother's fearlessness and independence grew, further strengthening their family bond.
