Ipoh en route Cameron Highlands.

This time around I will talk less about Ipoh since I've already did that previously. Refer here if you are doing a trip like mine to know more of what to explore at Ipoh! You can do either first. For us, it's Ipoh - Cameron Highlands via Simpang Pulai. Simpang Pulai is the new road and in my opinion, less curvy turnings and a safer road.

I started off the journey from Ipoh and visit the usual spots. I added a few spots which are the cave temple, Sam Poh Tong and further up along the road before you turn towards the cave temple, the place which sells pamelo. I got the cheapest of RM 10 for 3. History of Sam Poh Tong is that there are a few monks which were trapped due to flood and died. Ever since, it was maintained. Donations can be done by purchasing bread, tomatoes and kangkung to feed tortoises and fishes.

Big Strawberry Farm en route Cactus Valley. This farm is a must visit. It's not so famous but it's definitely a hidden gem. If you are walking up, you'll pass by the Cactus Valley first which sells really cheap potted plants starting from as low as RM 5. Walking up the hills, you'll see strawberry plantation, salad and grapes if its on season. Highest up on the hill is the toilet (if you are urgent, drive up as there is a parking on top of the hill) and its wonderful cafe. The strawberry feast overlooking the plantation view is really pleasing not forgetting sweetylicious. :)

Charcoal Steamboat Dinner- This is very famous at breezy cold Cameron Highlands especially at night. You can find this at any streets during night time but they usually close around 9.30pm - 10pm. This shop is opposite the row of Jasmine Hotel, Rainbow Hotel, Parkson Hotel(many hotels along the road so it should be quite noticeable). Once opposite, there's one similar shop but this one is behind that row of shops. Price for 4 is RM 18 per pax. It's reasonable and really fulfilling! Note:The less people you have, the higher the price.

Lavender Garden- This is the newest garden established along the Simpang Pulai way. You'll have to pay RM 5 entrance fees to witness the beauty of various flowers. There is a comfortable cafe and fresh jam factory inside. If you love to witness the beauty of flowers in a whole lot, do go!

Water Cress Farm - RM 1 entrance fees. Fresh water cress for sale at RM 5/kg. It's really fresh.

Night market / morning market - The night market is getting smaller than before in my opinion but it's probably because I went there late. Anyway, you might still want to go to purchase some fried mushrooms or dried strawberries. Note: Fresh strawberries in Cameron Highlands are usualy sour-sweet. As for the morning market, if you want to avoid the jam, go early. Further in the morning market, there's a vegetables farm that sell to you on the spot if it's on season. RM 5 for a large round cabbage (pesticides free). Home stay is also available there.

Tanah Rata- Usually a night spot for people from Western. The AA Curry House has really nice teh tarik which you should try. It's really smooth and has a strong tea scent that's definitely worth a try for RM 2!

Definitely a nice place for a weekend getaway or simply away from the hot weather. :)

Life is like flowers. At times, it dies but most of the time, it blooms as long as you do not pull off its roots.