Kelantan Diaries

 By Awliya

Our family trip to Kelantan started from my grandmother’s village in Kedah around 8.00 a.m. Since it was just a day before Hari Raya Haji, we decided to take the inland route through Gerik to avoid traffic. The journey was long but very calming, surrounded by green hills, forests, and peaceful natural scenery. I really enjoyed the view because I’ve always loved places with water, trees, and open landscapes.

One of the most beautiful moments during the journey was when we passed by Temenggor Lake. The view from the bridge was breathtaking, with the water reflecting a deep blue-green colour. I quickly took photos because the scenery was too beautiful to ignore. It felt very peaceful and refreshing just looking at it.

After about three hours on the road, we stopped at R&R Titiwangsa for lunch. We brought homemade food such as white rice with anchovies and boiled eggs, as well as fried bihun. We found a seating area and ate together as a family. Even though the food was simple, it tasted very satisfying because we were all hungry and eating together made it even better.

We then continued our journey for another few hours until we finally arrived at our homestay in Kelantan. I was honestly surprised because the place looked even better than in the pictures. The environment was very family-friendly, with a swimming pool, playground, mini football area, and an aesthetic wooden resting hut.

Inside the homestay, there was also a game room with snooker, carrom, chess, and several board games. They even provided a PS4, which made it enjoyable for everyone regardless of age. There was also a projector area that felt like a mini cinema with cushions and seating, perfect for relaxing at night. The rooms were comfortable with air-conditioning, towels, and extra mattresses provided.

After checking everything, we rested for a while due to the long journey. In the evening, my cousin and I went swimming in the pool. We spent time playing in the water together and enjoying the moment. It was simple but became one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

At night, everyone did their own activities. Some of my cousins played PS4, while others watched TV or used their phones. The adults played carrom and laughed together, making the house feel very lively and warm. We also had McDonald’s fried chicken for dinner, which felt extra special when eaten together as a family.

Later that night, I suddenly started craving ZUS Coffee. I ordered a Buttercream Latte through Grab because honestly… no ZUS, no life. I really can’t function without it sometimes. I enjoyed my drink while watching TV, just relaxing after a long day.

The next morning, I woke up early and went swimming again before getting ready for a wedding. I wore a full black abaya with a beaded shawl and Chanel flats, giving a chic and elegant look. After getting ready, we headed to the wedding venue, which was about 20 minutes away from the homestay.

When we arrived at the wedding, we were guided to our table and everything was well organised. We then went to take food, where I chose rice with chicken and beef dishes. There were many delicious options available, and everything looked very appetising. I also took a variety of desserts, especially cakes that looked too good to resist.

After eating, I had some ice cream for dessert, choosing vanilla and chocolate flavours. While the adults were busy chatting with relatives, I took selfies and enjoyed the atmosphere. The wedding felt lively because it brought together many extended family members. We stayed there for about two hours before leaving.

After the wedding, we went to Pasar Siti Khadijah to buy snacks and light food for later at the homestay. We bought fruits, drinks, and other small treats to enjoy together. After spending some time there, we returned to the homestay to rest and relax.

Before going for a swim, I took some time to capture photos near the small aesthetic wooden hut at the homestay using my digital camera. The place matched perfectly with my outfit and gave a soft, elegant vibe in the photos. After that little photo session, I finally went for a swim with my cousin.

In the evening, my cousin and I went swimming again while the rest of the family rested. At night, everyone did their own activities. The aunties and uncles played carrom, some cousins played PS4, and I spent my time watching TV and using my phone. The atmosphere was calm, relaxed, and very comforting.

The next morning, we went for one last swim before checking out. We packed everything and left the homestay before 12.00 p.m. On the way back, we stopped at a rest area and enjoyed the food we had brought earlier. It was a simple but meaningful moment to end the trip.

We continued our journey back to Kedah and arrived at my parents’ village around 8.00 p.m. After a long day of travelling, everyone went home, showered, rested, and slept early. It marked the end of a very memorable family trip filled with laughter, food, and beautiful moments together that I will always remember.