This hotel has a 'roof garden' so up I went: orchid heaven! And every plant named and dated, and plants I recognise and not - flowers, even the arrangement of planter pots artistic, plus all these myriad orchids on wee mounts strung up on the bamboo.
And no camera!
Soon the young manager of the hotel was up there sharing his interest with me. I couldn't believe it, 'this environment is no good' - they were looking pretty healthy. He's off to the 20WOC on Sunday just for the show on the one day.
The most he's paid for one of these orchids is MYR55, and most of them about $NZ10. A really nice, diverse, hobbyist collection.
This touch of connection didn't solve my immediate problems of no connector nor internet at the hotel.
I can live without the camera for a couple of days but everyone I asked gave a different reply to 'where can I find an internet cafe?" - Actually that's the wrong question, I need to ask for a CC (Cybercafe) to 'surfnet'.
Ok so the bus came into town through some unkempt streets, but walking just one block from the lovely hotel to the (reclaimed) seafront onto the straits of Melaka, the money and plentitude of seafood restaurants/ cafe/ stalls for visitors becomes apparent. (Hey forgot to say, saw 3 white people at Melaka sentral station and two more at Larkin).
So I halted searching and enjoyed the beautiful view, the soft sea air, many ships on the horizon and small vessels nearer.
Recognised one of the flash hotels I've seen on wotif etc, so figured they might have a CC. Inadvertantly walked into the restaurant part and a businessman type seemed approachable. Explained my situation, that I need to tell my husband in Singapore that I have arrived safely.
Malaysians are so kind, in whatever ways fit their situation. They are constantly surprised I am a woman travelling alone but I think that's an advantage, in a genuine one to one situation. Anyway, Mr suit and tie was very good and the next thing the manager of the restaurant is bringing me in his car to this CC.
I'm wondering whether Kathie you could help me over summer make some creation of words and images out of this incredible journey I am having.
Its sure going to rachet up a level or 10 with the 20WOC tomorrow, I am VERY excited. I've travelled a full week and the only thing less than 9 out of 10 is the multi-spits on day one. I only lose one point for the lack of suitable camera adaptor and having to find CCs.
5.15pm time to say wish your all well and missing you.
xx M
