Tioman, a Tropical Dream

August 9th marks the 50th National Day celebration of Singapore. It's the biggest event of the year and the Singapore Government was kind enough to extend the holiday weekend until August 10th. While everyone else fled to their desired destinations, my friends and I have decided to visit Tioman, Malaysia for a quick beach getaway.

We left Singapore in a rented private van thirty minutes past midnight and reached the Malaysia immigration at around 1:30 am of August 7th. We did not expect to reach Mersing Jetty Port at about 4:00 am, but we did and it was way early than our forecasted ETA. Thanks to the F1 driving skills of our designated driver who was travelling at 100kph. ( whew! it was relief to hear him say, "we've reached our destination).

As the ferry tickets were all fully booked two (2 ) months prior to our departure date,  our group has decided to rent a speedboat. The boat costs RM150 per pax for one way. Should you want to save on fare, you may choose to book online for ferry tickets. The departure times vary depending on the weather and to date, there are only 2 ferry boat companies operating in Mersing.
Note : Book your ferry tickets in advance as they tend to sell out on peak days.



It was a 2-hour choppy and bumpy boat ride. My right hand was tightly gripped to the metal railings and the other was clutched on my life jacket. We felt like we're being tossed in adversity by the strong waves and the boat will capsize any moment. If you have motion sickness or fear of open sea ( thalassophobia ) then traveling on a speedboat should be off your books. After series of screaming, shouting, partly crying, laughing and even silent praying or any of that combo ; we finally reached the beautiful village of Juara, Tioman.

Tioman is one of the commercially developed islands in Malaysia. Boasting a total of 12,000 hectares of the island and countless mountain streams and waterfalls. We initially planned to go to Bali but given it's one of the busiest holidays and the sky rocket high price of airline tickets, we opted to settle or at least we thought we're just "settling" for a beach trip to this island. ( spoke too soon )

Kampong Juara is the only village on the eastern part of Tioman and by far has the best beach on the island. It also boasts sunrise over the open water of the South China Sea and if you are in need of vitamin sea and the following falls on your criteria of a beach getaway :
Tranquility, beachfront accommodations, fuzz-free atmosphere and a place far from the chaotic scenes of bar and city night life; then Juara is your best bet.

It was Friday and time seemed to have stopped as we gazed upon the long stretch of white sandy shores, covered in palm trees. The sun was at its zenith yet the cool breeze paid contrast creating a summer/spring feel which was too enticing to pass. The water with its brazen shades of blue, cerulean and turquoise; beguiled us into snapping photographs with all its beauty and charm. And from the moment our barefeet touched the fine sands of Juara,  we knew it's paradise and Tioman has already stolen our hearts.

Tioman Crew @ Rainbow Chalet ( L-R : Jonats, Bien, Jez, Nhitz, Jhesy, Gatch & Joel )

I have always been drawn to the wide, endless blue ocean waters. The sound of the waves pounding against the rocks, the feel of the sand and water touching my toes and the salty taste of the sea breeze as it kisses my damp skin. Everything seems inviting, calming and relaxing. Waking up to this view, to this bliss; gives me a sense of contentment. Of peace. Of experiencing a piece of heaven amidst the buzz and fizzles of life. It is my utopian retreat. My refuge and sweet escape.

Van - Maxi Cab
Speedboat & Accommodation : Rainbow Chalets

                                                                                       Photos by : Jezreel Rombaoa & Joel Abril
♥♥,
Jhesy