As we climbed onwards and upwards the temperature began to drop, the air became thick with moisture and the lush green vegetation which flanked each side of the road thickened. We were heading deeper into the charm and serenity of the Cameron Highlands.
A well-trodden tourist spot, this is Malaysia’s most extensive hill station. Situated North-West of Kuala Lumpur, it’s cooler climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for tea plantations, as well as vegetable and flower farming. Named after William Cameron, the surveyor who mapped the area in 1885, wealthy colonialists would often head for the hills in search of respite from the heat of the lowlands and there is still some evidence of this today.
On our journey we stopped for a little light refreshment at the Lakehouse Hotel, a tudor inn over looking a beautiful lake. It was a surreal moment indeed as we were momentarily flung back into Olde England! It was here, on the lawn of this boutique resort where I composed my most recent self-portrait.
As the afternoon’s rain hung heavy in the air I sheltered beneath one of our Italian wedding umbrellas whilst holding a hand-painted bag* from our life in Paris and overlooked our new home – Malaysia. A magical moment and one to treasure.
Self Portrait in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia.
We continued up deep into the hills and soon came across one of Malaysia’s tea plantations. It’s green velvety texture shrouded the hills, a truly beautiful sight.
With only a day to visit this time, it is definitely somewhere I plan to return as there is much to explore and understand about the life and work of the people of this luscious land.
Cameron Valley Tea Plantation, Cameron Highlands, Malaysia.
*During the last year, I began my series about women living as expatriates around the world, starting in the City of Light. Kasia Dietz, a well-traveled New Yorker, now living in Paris kindly agreed to take part as very much a ‘Modern Woman at home in a Foreign Land.’
A wonderfully intriguing and highly creative woman, Kasia writes an adventure, passion filled blog about her life and experiences in the French capital. More recently she also launched Kasia Dietz handbags, beautifully hand-painted and individually designed bags nurtured from her love of art, fashion and design.
A year of living in Bastille, on the right bank, it was very fitting for me to buy one of her ‘Rive Droite’ bags as a memento and well, simply – just because! I love it and use it often, a perfect tote for everyday use. Now sold in Paris, the Greek Isles and New York I’m in little doubt Kasia will continue to be successful and maybe one day we will see them sold here in SE Asia! Thank you Kasia and see you again soon I hope x
4 comments
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Hi Susan, welcome! Its lovely to hear from you. Two inspiring women – Jennifer and Kasia – it was wonderful to get to know them while in Paris. Thank you for visiting my blog, I hope you continue to enjoy it. Chloe
Salut! I just discovered you through Jennyphoria’s video interview…what a fascinating project you have taken on. Also great to see a friend (Kasia) here…love her blog & bags!
What gorgeous photos Chloe! Particularly your self-portrait. Please continue to share your unique adventures in Asia, so eloquently captured in images and words.
And thank you for the lovely mention! I was honored to take part in your expat series and share the chapter of Paris with you. Enjoy the bag as it journeys with you, a memory of another place and time.
From Paris with love,
Kasia