Old Houses

About a month ago, we went to an area just north of Kuala Terengganu that was supposed to be a firefly preserve where thousands of fireflies blink on and off simultaneously. In terms of fireflies, it was a total bust (all told, I saw about 5) but the area had very old, traditional Malaysian houses.




Here's what an inside looks like. The windows are hand carved and quite ornate.



These houses were over 100 years old. Not all were in good shape, but they're getting refurbished. However, to maintain the look, all new construction is being done in the traditional way with wood from the area.


And because we were supposedly there to see fireflies, we got there late in the day and saw a nice sunset on the beach.



And here was our guide, Fendy.

Fendy talked a lot. For instance, did you know that eating honey and watermelon together will kill you? It's true. His best friend ate watermelon, and then a few hours later forgot he ate watermelon and ate some honey, and then he died. This was his best friend. He wouldn't lie about his best friend dying.

And you don't even want to know about what sort of tests you must pass (administered by the local Muslim Imam) in order to marry your second, third or fourth wife. Okay I'll give you a hint. It involves coughing and proving your "hero's" strength.

I'm kicking myself for not writing down everything he said. He had so many words of wisdom.