Day 8, Taman Negara

Today, Kuala Tahan is our village and the Taman Negara rainforest our playground.  There is just one rule, we must always keep the entry permit with us when in the forest, otherwise we could be put in jail for 3 years without passing GO (passer par la case depart).

Floating restaurants on the
Tembeling river

So, we crossed the river by boat and ventured deep into the forest, to the canopy walkway. Ok, our walk wasn't really an impressive adventure, the most important species we encountered was actually the "Frenchius touristicus" easily recognised by their strong English accents (I am one of them) and their aptitude for  yelling to groups of children. I tried silently to film them, but they are too savage to be approached. Your consolation prize is a picture of a giant plant, if you are careful enough, you will notice Katie as well. Don't worry John and Caroline, I haven't shrunk her, the plant really is that big.

Oh la belle plante

We then went on the canopy walkway, which is a series of suspended bridges which were originally constucted by scientists to watch life in the forest. After our 2 hour walk in the jungle, we went back to civilisation and tried another restaurant along the river. Two important points, locals are very polite and trustful toward us, they are also very patient and therefore you shouldn't be afraid of waiting more than an hour for your food.

Despite this place being full of tourists, I really enjoyed the atmosphere and the way of life of the locals. In the afternoon we took part in a rapid shooting boat session with a lot of turns and fight between crews which left us completely wet. Before turning back,  we stopped at a sandy beach and had a swim: life is so good.

YES I feel safe, I just like
touching ropes

We had planned to go for a night forest walk with a guide to find the real savage species.  We were too ambitious, here nature is the king. One hour before the meeting time there was a tropical storm, it was a splendid moment shared in another floating restaurant, doing our favorite non activity, waiting to eat.

Nicolas