Nature's Gift

Nature's Gift

Cameron Highland

“Your welcome.” 

I said to the lady with pink streaks on her black hair while handing me a freshly made of glazed strawberry custard. It only costs me RM 3! While munching the custard, I walked out the bakery and scanning everywhere looking for a seat. Tourists and local visitors are everywhere, filling the table that I see.

I found it. A black, high chair next to the rail at the balcony, with the tea farm as a background. It is like destined for me. I take the seat and enjoying the peaceful scenery of the green mountain. The mountain filled with organic tea plant garden and team of workers, plucking the finest leaves for us to have a taste of hot, quality black tea.

“I’m glad I chose Cameron Highlands for my sweet escape.” said my mind. 

Sipping a cup of tea at Sungai Palas Tea Centre, it was founded in 1929 by a British businessman, J.A Russel during British colonial era in Malaya. This place is a must-visit for tranquility of mind and freshly hand pick tea leaves.

After a delightful lunch, I headed to the tea garden and run as swiftly as I can to the top of the

mountain. While gasping for air on top of the garden, I stand up and I can see all the fantastic

panoramic view that I have never seen in my life. The workers look like an ant from my perspective and it is very chilly up here.

“I RULE THE WORLDDDDDD!” 

I screamed at the top of my lungs like I was on the top of Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world. I waved my hands in the air and the visitors down there are watching me like I have just escaped from a mental hospital.

Embarrassed with myself, I slowly go down while embracing every leaves that I pass. I stop and pluck the leaves, smell it and said,

“Arrhh.. The aroma is so good..” 

The sky starts dimming. I am sitting on a pile of tea leaves, witnessing the scenery that only Mother Nature can provide. The sun is about to set. The clouds slowly faded to purple and filled the red sky. A flock of birds flying across the sky,  a beautiful sun set from the tea garden.

I take out my smart phone and capture the moments that only can be seen here. I started to feel cold as the wind flows my hair and touched my shivering exposed hand. I keep back my smart phone and it is time to visit another heaven. Big Red Strawberry Farm.

As soon as I reach the destination, there is not only strawberries, but also cactus, pitcher plant, mushroom, and who knows you also find plants that looks like Mandrake here. The plant in Harry Potter series, which will scream as soon as you pulled it out from the pot. Well, it may be looks like it, but it will not burst your ear drum if you pulled it. 

I have to show this place to my family. I know my brother will love this place since he is a vegetarian. It is a food paradise to anyone who loves fresh vegetables and reasonable price too.While strolling around the garden, there are strawberries grows in the pot, hanging on top of my head. I yank it and eat it straight away! 

“Oh, my God.. It's delicious! I have to bring this home!" I said.

Without delay, I go to Royal Berry and there is self plucking strawberries service.

The worker gives me the basket and scissors and I quickly search for the big, plump strawberries that I could find. After purchased three bags of strawberries, I head to Cameron Lavender. To all flower lovers, this place is perfect. 

The purple lavender grows, row by row with red roses, yellow daisies giving a dazzle of colors for any visitor to admire. I feel like I want to lie down on these flowers and flap my hands like a fairy. The lavender scent gives a soothing pleasure and changes my exhausting trip to stress-free vacation.

I bought myself some perfume as a souvenir and it is time to return to hotel. Arrived at the hotel room, I go to the balcony and staring at the night sky, full of twinkling stars. I hear footstep coming. I glanced back and it is my uncle. He just got back from his shopping with his wife. I smiled and helped them carry inside things they bought.

Written by : Marcus anak Anthony