Chek Jawa Adventures

I did promise that I would continue about Chek Jawa...

It was a day about discoveries,and re-discoveries.
I have already described the fun ride in the rain.  I think God had meant to let me enjoy that experience.  I mean, had it been hot that morning, perhaps I would have been toiling away uncomfortably as I pedalled along the road.

First exciting find was the rubber tree near the bicycle post.  We could not cycle around Chek Jawa itself...you need to hike and trek on foot.  We were concerned about the safety of the bikes, but the bicycle owner had assured us that it was not likely that the bicycles would be stolen.  Anyway, back to the rubber tree...complete with its carefully carved bark and a cup to collect the latex.

It was wonderful to have people to were eager to actually look at the plants and animals up close.  The rain had sent quite a number of creatures into hiding in shelters, but the cries were heard were authentic.  Even birds trilled the sounds of freedom.  Erico was trying to peer into airholes in the mud and sand in search of crabs and other forms of life...but there were only the baby mudskippers enjoying themselves,

Having Faz around was a blessing.  Having grown up in a kampung by the sea, she recognised most of the flora and fauna...and named them for us, including trivia like which are edible.  I was so tempted by the buah nibong (or attap chee) which were found in gorgeous red bunches. 

The highlight(!) was the spectacular watch tower...a wooden structure about 5 storeys high.  Now you know me and my problem with wooden planks...but add to my fear of heights...you get the picture.  Nothing ventured, nothing gained they say...But guess what happened when you have 2 old ladies who are equally frightened but gung-ho at the same time?

I think it was a good thing we were the only group who had braved the rain...cos the silence covering Chek Jawa area was suddenly punctured by hysterical laughter .  Poor Hafiz could not understand why his usually composed mum and her friend burst out in uncontrollable laughter as they slowly made their way up...the giggles mixed with incantations to God to help protect us.  That was how we conquered our fears...releasing stress hee-hee-haha-ing our way to the top.

Once up there, the view was breathtaking...I was winded by the effort and too much laughing...and fear can be paralysing...so I simply sat down, shaking each time the kids moved around.  But Faz and I did it...we made it to the top...But oppps...if you are up, you need to go down again...which was an even scarier experience.  We closed our eyes, and walked sideways like crabs...and praying like mad again.  Yea!

Poor Erico.
He so badly wanted to see part of the coralled areas.  But by then, the tide had come in, and the low sea bed was already covered with water.  I fell in love with the sea moss which the tides brought it.  It made certain areas look as if they are carpeted with lush green carpet.

By then, the rain stopped.
There was a light breeze and we walked along the broadwalk.
I wanted to just take in the sights...of the open sea in front, and the beautiful vegetation behind.
Everything looked so unspoilt...and life, seemed to go at a leisurely pace.

I do not think I could do justice by these descriptions of Chek Jawa.
I hope more people would go to the place, and check out one of the last natural places of beauty Singapore has to offer.
And of course, you must go with others who are willing to share that experience with you.
It was not just the place, but the company, that made the trip memorable.
It is truly something I will never forget.

So,if I get to go to Chek Jawa again,
would anyone like to follow?