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Saturday, 15 June 2024

BATU BURUK Gang Reunion!

Batu Buruk Gang Reunites

One week after our trip to Kuala Terengganu, we were given something even more precious than another getaway. Our good friend Vinodh invited us to a small reunion with mates from our former high school. The gathering was set at SOULed OUT in Sri Hartamas and knowing it would be a long and meaningful night, we booked a room nearby at The Signature Hotel.

Just the Two of Us This Time

Brendan was busy that weekend, helping friends run an open day booth at Multimedia University in Cyberjaya, so it was just the two of us heading out. In a quiet way, it felt fitting—this reunion was about reconnecting with a chapter of life that belonged to a much earlier time.

Lunch, Coffee, and Anticipation

We drove to Sri Hartamas around lunchtime and had lunch at Nasi Kandar Pelita, then followed it up with drinks at Starbucks as we waited for check in time. It was relaxed, unhurried, and filled with anticipation. We knew the evening ahead would be special.

In the afternoon, we made the short drive to The Signature Hotel and checked in. We settled into the room, took a short break, and got ready for the night ahead.

Old Friends, Same Laughter

At six in the evening, we said goodbye to Cat and walked the short distance to SOULed OUT. We were supposed to meet Vinodh, Krishenjit (Kris), Deva, and Soh. At the very last minute, Kris fell ill with Influenza B and had to sit this one out, which was disappointing—but we promised to make up for it soon.

Vinodh was already there when we arrived. Deva joined us not long after, and Soh completed the group about half an hour later. Just like that, decades melted away.

Six Hours of Memories

We spent the next six hours catching up on old times—starting with mojitos, then sharing a bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label, alongside plate after plate of finger food. Conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter, stories, and moments that only old friends could understand.

Our thoughts drifted back to Kuala Terengganu, where we all grew up. Life felt simpler back then. We remembered riding bicycles everywhere, tennis practice every evening at the school courts, and football matches whenever we could find the time. Football, to us, often meant kicking a tennis ball around the basketball court, with Soh and one of us usually serving as goalkeepers.

And of course, there were the games on the beach at Batu Buruk, the place that gave our group its name. Running on sand drained your energy faster than you expected, but we never cared. We were young, free, and always together.

Nostalgia Hits Hard

As we talked, we felt a deep, quiet ache. Nostalgia had a way of doing that. It reminded us how beautiful the past was—and how far away it now felt. The mix of pride, joy, and longing sat heavy in the air as we shared memories that shaped who we had become.

Ending the Night Gently

After finishing the bottle of whisky, we ended the night with a pint of Heineken, then took a short walk to Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu Hartamas for supper. Sitting there, tired but happy, we made plans to meet again next month—this time at Soh’s place along Jalan Imbi, with Kris joining us too.

We said our goodbyes as Soh and Vinodh headed back toward the car park. Deva and we walked across the street to The Signature Hotel, filled with gratitude for a night that reminded us of who we once were.

Morning Goodbyes

The next morning, we met Deva again briefly after breakfast at the rooftop café. Soon after, we packed up our things and checked out at ten.

Until We Meet Again

That reunion was more than just a night out. It was a reminder that no matter how much life changed, some bonds stayed strong. We planned to gather again in July, before taking a short break and resuming our adventures in August—when we would finally visit Sabah for the first time.

Some journeys took us to new places. Others took us gently back home.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:
Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu Hartamas

BATU BURUK Gang Reunion │ The SIGNATURE Hotel Hartamas

Batu Buruk Gang Reunites

A week after our Kuala Terengganu trip, we received an invitation that meant a lot to us. Our good friend Vinodh had organised a small reunion with mates from our former high school—the Batu Buruk gang. The gathering was set to take place at SOULed OUT in Sri Hartamas, so we decided to make a night of it and booked a room nearby at The Signature Hotel.

Just the Two of Us

Brendan was busy that weekend, helping friends with an open day booth at Multimedia University in Cyberjaya, so this short getaway became a quiet couples’ staycation for us.

Lunch, Drinks, and Check In

We arrived in Sri Hartamas around lunchtime. We had lunch at Nasi Kandar Pelita, followed by drinks at Starbucks, before making the short drive to The Signature Hotel to check in.

The hotel was set among restaurants and shops in the well to do Desa Sri Hartamas neighbourhood. It was about 1 km from the E23 motorway and 5 km from Publika Shopping Gallery. The rooms were modern and came with flat screen TVs, free Wi Fi, microwaves, minifridges, and tea and coffee making facilities. Some units even had kitchenettes and washer dryers. The hotel also featured an infinity pool, a gym, and a rooftop café with skyline views.

That said, because we were only staying for one night, we knew we would not have time to enjoy most of the facilities—except for breakfast the next morning.

Reunion Night

In the evening, we headed out to SOULed OUT. One of us spent hours catching up with old friends, laughing over memories, and reconnecting with people who had known us since our teenage years. The Batu Buruk gang reunion was loud, warm, and full of stories that only time and shared history could create.

Breakfast with a View

The next morning, we woke up at eight and headed to the rooftop café for breakfast. The modest buffet spread cost RM28.00 per person (≈ USD6 / EUR5). It was simple but filling—just right for easing into the day.

After breakfast, we went back to the room, packed up, and checked out at ten in the morning.

Until the Next Adventure

That marked the end of our short Hartamas staycation. It reminded us how meaningful old friendships were and how powerful a simple reunion could be.

We planned to take a short break in July before resuming our travels in August—when we would finally visit Sabah for the first time.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

BATU BURUK Gang Reunion │ Weekend in HARTAMAS!

Batu Buruk Gang Reunites

One week after our trip to Kuala Terengganu, we received an invitation that instantly brought back a flood of memories. Our good friend Vinodh reached out to organise a small reunion with mates from our former high school—the Batu Buruk gang. The get together was set at SOULed OUT in Sri Hartamas, and to make a proper evening of it, we booked a room nearby at The Signature Hotel.

Brendan was busy that weekend, helping friends with an open day booth at Multimedia University in Cyberjaya, so this staycation became a quiet couples’ weekend with one very special night planned.

Lunch, Parking Woes, and Familiar Streets

We drove to Sri Hartamas around lunchtime. With a couple of hours to spare before check in, we headed out in search of food. Our first thought was Nasi Kandar Deen Bistro, formerly known as Restoran Safiz Corner, a place filled with familiarity and old memories.

Parking, however, had other ideas. After nearly twenty minutes of circling the area, we finally secured a spot along Jalan 23/70A. At that point, we decided to walk around and see where our feet led us.

We eventually settled on Nasi Kandar Pelita, where we ordered:

  •  White rice with fried chicken
  •  White rice with pepper chicken
  •  1 hot Nescafe
  •  1 iced lemon tea

Lunch came to RM32.75 (≈ USD7 / EUR6). Simple, satisfying, and exactly what we needed.

Killing Time the Sweet Way

By the time we finished lunch, it was already two in the afternoon. To pass the time, we walked over to Starbucks and ordered:

  • 1 raspberry blackcurrant frappuccino
  • 1 mango passion frappuccino

Thanks to a buy one get one free offer, both drinks came to just RM17.50 (≈ USD4 / EUR4). We sat back, cooled off, and slowly eased into the afternoon.

Checking In and Heading Out

At three, we returned to BiBi and drove the short distance to The Signature Hotel to check in. We dropped off our bags and freshened up, knowing the highlight of the night was just around the corner.

At six in the evening, one of us said goodbye to Cat and walked over to SOULed OUT. What followed was six hours of catching up, laughter, shared memories, and stories that only people who had grown up together could truly understand.

The Batu Buruk gang had reunited—and it felt like no time had passed at all.

A Gentle Morning After

The next morning, Cat and we woke up at eight and headed to the lobby for breakfast. It was calm, unhurried, and exactly what we needed after a long night of reminiscing.

After breakfast, we packed up and checked out at ten in the morning.

Until the Next Chapter

That marked the end of our Hartamas staycation. It reminded us how grounding old friendships could be, and how powerful shared history truly was.

We planned a short hiatus in July before resuming our adventures in August—when we would finally visit Sabah for the first time.

And once again, we could not wait.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:
Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu Hartamas

Saturday, 8 June 2024

TGG Day 6 │ KT to KL: Hai Peng Kopitiam • 450km in Time-Lapse!

Going Home, One Last Drive

We made it a point to start early and woke up at six in the morning. After showering and packing our bags, we checked out of the Airbnb and were on the road by ten to seven.

Our first stop was my late Aunty’s house. We parked BiBi there and made sure the main water stopcock was fully turned off. It felt like a small but important step before leaving town.

Backtracking Before the Highway

We then set off toward the Kuala Terengganu Toll Plaza, only to realise we had forgotten to refuel. With a soft sigh, we turned around and stopped at the Petronas station in Pasir Panjang. Tanks filled, we were finally ready.

By the time we passed the Kuala Terengganu Toll Plaza, it was almost eight. Everyone felt a little sleepy, so we made a short stop at Bukit Besi R&R to freshen up. Spotting a food truck nearby, we grabbed a cup of hot coffee, which helped a lot.

Breakfast Stop in Kemaman

We continued along the East Coast Expressway, exited at Kijal, and drove on until we reached Kemaman town just before ten. We parked at a municipal lot and walked across Jalan Sulaimani for breakfast at the well known Hai Peng Kopitiam.

We ordered:

  • 2 packs of nasi lemak
  • 2 sets of toast
  • 2 sets of half boiled eggs
  • 1 large mug of coffee
  • 1 iced lemon tea
  • 1 iced milk tea

We also took away:

  • 6 packs of nasi lemak
  • 5 sticks of pulut panggang

Everything came to RM59.00 (≈ USD13 / EUR12). It was filling, comforting, and exactly what we needed before the long drive ahead.

The Final Stretch

At a quarter to eleven, we got back into BiBi and soon passed the Chukai Toll Plaza, rejoining the East Coast Expressway. Not long after, drowsiness crept in again, so we stopped briefly at the Maran R&R to refresh ourselves one last time.

The final leg of the journey was smooth and uneventful. By a little past two in the afternoon, we were finally back at our condo.

Until the Next Big Trip

With this journey complete, we decided to take a short break from filming. Apart from the occasional weekend outing, we would be quiet until our next major adventure in August.

That trip would take us to a Malaysian state we had never visited before—Sabah, often called the “Land Below the Wind”, a place untouched by typhoons and rich with new stories waiting to be told.

Until then, we rested—and looked ahead.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Friday, 7 June 2024

TGG Day 5 │ Fond Farewells: The Final Reveal!

Final Reveal

We met you again after returning from our food spree, both of us a little tired but content. Cat got busy with the laundry while we sat down to face the mountain of footage we had collected over the past five days. It felt heavy but meaningful, knowing that every clip carried a memory.

One Last Visit

We had brought along a small goodie bag of chocolates for Vinodh and his mother, but we did not manage to pass it to him the night before. At six in the evening, we drove out of the Airbnb and headed to Vinodh’s home in Taman Jaya. We handed over the chocolates, shared a few warm words, and even managed to take a quick selfie with his mother. It was a simple moment, but one that stayed with us.

We said our goodbyes with a promise to return soon, knowing that time here was coming to an end.

Closing a Chapter

From there, we drove to my late aunty’s house one final time. This visit felt different. As promised, we walked through the entire house and showed you the results of the fourteen-hour spring cleaning completed a few days earlier. The house no longer felt abandoned. It felt cared for.

We went room by room, making sure every switch was turned off, every curtain drawn, and every window closed. Then we switched off the main circuit, locked the gate, and stood there for a moment before leaving. It felt like closing a chapter properly, with respect and intention.

Heading Back Early

We knew there would be a parade later that night near the Airbnb, which meant traffic could get messy. So we decided to head back quickly. Because of that, we did not get the chance to properly chat with Heng, our wonderful neighbour, as we said goodbye. Another small regret, but one we accepted.

Winding Down

We planned to order takeaway that night and keep things quiet. This would be our last video from our second-to-last day in Kuala Terengganu.

Tomorrow, we would be heading home.

And as we put our things down and took a breath, it felt like we were leaving with lighter hearts—closure found, memories made, and stories ready to be told.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

TGG Day 5 │ KT Joyride Part 2: My Old Home • Adnan Keropok • Gerai Kuih Gong Kapas

Joyride, Part 2

We met you again right after lunch at Nasi Minyak Wan Sebanun. Since it was Friday and many businesses were closed for prayers, we found ourselves with time to spare. We planned a small shopping run later—keropok first, sweet cakes after—but for now, we decided to take a leisurely drive to a place filled with memories.

Back to an Old Home

We drove southwest along Jalan Kuala Berang for about twenty minutes and arrived at the small town of Bukit Payung. This was where one of my old homes used to be, tucked along Lorong Haji Sidek. I got out, took photos, and recorded some footage.

To be honest, we only lived here briefly. Still, in that short time, many good memories were formed. I was thirteen then. I clearly remembered getting chicken pox here and being quarantined for a whole week—time moved very slowly back then.

Eventually, my parents moved us away because the daily commute to and from Kuala Terengganu was simply too long. Standing there now, years later, it felt strange yet comforting. I tried to picture the house as it once was, before time quietly changed everything.

Another Memory Stop

We turned back toward Kuala Terengganu and made a short detour to a housing estate where another late aunty once lived. We drove along Lorong Taman Tasek 2, but no matter how hard I tried, I could not remember which house was hers.

Some memories stayed clear. Others faded softly. We accepted that and moved on.

Going a Little Overboard

Next stop: Adnan Keropok at Losong. This was a place we had missed dearly. Maybe because of that, we got a little carried away and ended up buying quite a haul:

  • 5 packets of Keropok Keping
  • 10 packets of Keropok Lekor
  • 10 bottles of Lada (Dipping Sauce)
  • 10 packets of Keropok Sira Berlada (Sweet & Spicy Fish Crackers)

Our keropok stash came to RM180.00 (approximately USD38 / EUR35), and we had zero regrets.

Sweet Things to Finish the Day

We then drove to Gong Kapas in search of sweet cakes and arrived at Gerai Kuih Gong Kapas just as it was reopening after Friday prayers. If temptation had no limits, we would have bought everything on display. Instead, we showed a little restraint and chose:

  • 2 packets of Kuih Akok
  • 2 packets of Seri Kaya (with and without glutinous rice)
  • 1 packet of Rojak Betik
  • 1 packet of Laksam Kuah Putih
  • 1 packet of Roti Jala
  • 2 packets of Jalur Emas
  • 1 packet of Popiah Simpul
  • 1 packet of Cream Puff
  • 1 packet of Chocolate Brownies
  • 1 packet of Kuih Tepung Pelita

All that came to just RM70.00 (approximately USD15 / EUR14).

Wrapping Up

Loaded with keropok, kuih, and memories, we felt content. It had been a slow, meaningful drive—one filled with nostalgia, indulgence, and quiet joy.

Stay tuned for our next post as we take you along for our final night in Kuala Terengganu.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

TGG Day 5 │ KT Joyride Part 1: Pantai Batu Buruk • Nasi Minyak Wan Sebanun

Joyride, Part 1

We woke up at half past nine feeling mildly hung over after a night that stretched far into the early hours. It was one of those mornings where moving slowly felt like the right decision.

A Small Problem at the Airbnb

We soon realised our Airbnb had an issue with the air conditioner. The magnetic card power switch took several tries before the aircon would turn on, and the spare card did not work at all.

The host quickly arranged for an electrician to come by at ten. Right on time, Apik arrived and took a look. The problem turned out to be almost funny—a 5 sen coin was stuck inside the power switch slot. Once removed, both aircon cards worked perfectly. We thanked Apik, relieved that the problem was solved.

In Search of Lunch

By late morning, we got ready to head out for an early lunch. At 11:40am, we drove out, only to find that Restoran Singgang Budu was closed.

With no backup plan, we drove toward Pantai Batu Buruk. Brendan got out to take photos while we decided to give Restoran Chuan Kee another chance. Sadly, even though it was only 12:20pm, they had already sold out of their famous chicken rice.

Closed Doors Everywhere

Next, we tried Restaurant 388 at Kampung Tiong. Closed.

We went back toward Restoran Singgang Budu. Still closed.

Hunger was starting to feel very real.

A Simple Win at Last

Then we noticed Nasi Minyak Wan Sebanun across the street. It was open. We quickly turned around, parked right next to the stall, and ordered without hesitation:

  • 3 Nasi Minyak with Beef Gulai
  • A round of drinks

Our lunch cost RM31.00 (≈ USD7 / EUR6). After all the running around, that meal felt especially satisfying.

Moving On

With lunch finally sorted, our spirits lifted. Sometimes a day did not go as planned, but those were often the days that turned into the best stories later.

Stay tuned for our next video as we went on a leisurely drive back to my old home.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:
Nasi Minyak Wan Sebanun (Ladang)

Thursday, 6 June 2024

TGG Day 4 │ Warung NORAZILA Chabang 3

Nasi Minyak and Old Memories

We met you again as we woke up from an afternoon nap, unsure of what to do next. With no fixed plans, we weighed a few options before our hearts led us to an old favourite in Chabang Tiga.

A Place Close to the Heart

We shared a long history with Warung Norazila, going all the way back to our years living in Kuala Terengganu. As a true Terengganu boy, we believed firmly that Terengganu nasi dagang was the one true king, while all other versions were only pretenders.

Nasi dagang was the taste of our childhood. When we were young, we could simply walk to the local market and buy a packet wrapped in banana leaf from any roadside stall worth its salt. Later in life, when nasi dagang became harder to find, we made regular trips to Simpang Tokku, opposite the Shell station, where two sisters ran a legendary stall.

When we later moved to Kuala Lumpur, every return visit to Kuala Terengganu meant one thing—Simpang Tokku had to be on the list. So when the sisters stopped selling their nasi dagang, it felt like losing a small part of home.

Finding What Was Lost

We searched, asked around, and followed clues online. On our next trip back, we found Warung Norazila. It turned out the sisters had retired, leaving the stall in the hands of younger family members. Recently, we even read that the stall had reopened in its original Simpang Tokku location. That was where we were headed that evening.

Dinner at Last

We arrived at 6:30pm and ordered without hesitation:

  • 2 Nasi Minyak with Beef Gulai
  • 1 Nasi Minyak with Chicken Gulai
  • 1 Nasi Kunyit with Ikan Tongkol
  • 3 Iced Teas
  • 2 packets of sweet cakes

Dinner came to RM41.00 (≈ USD9 / EUR8), and it felt almost unreal that such comfort could still be so affordable.

An Unexpected Invitation

As we finished dinner, we received an invitation from our old friend Vinodh to join him nearby. Even though we had already eaten, we agreed to meet him later for drinks.

We left Warung Norazila at 7:30pm, stopped by a pharmacy along Jalan Sultan Ismail, then visited our late aunty’s house to check on things. After that, we returned to the Airbnb and walked to Restoran Ocean, where we spent the next four hours talking, laughing, and catching up as bottles kept us company.

Ending the Day Slowly

We wrapped up at 1:00am and walked next door to Ali Spices Restaurant for supper. A thosai, cheese naan, and drinks later—RM16.50 (≈ USD4 / EUR3)—we finally returned to the Airbnb.

We went to bed unsure about breakfast the next day, a little tired, a little full, and very content.

Perhaps we would see you again at lunch instead?

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:
Warung Norazila Chabang 3 - https://maps.app.goo.gl/zWiEwudt9SafNs7W7

TGG Day 4 │ Nostalgic Drive: • SMSS • SATU • Mr DIY

Nostalgic Drive Through Batu Buruk

We met you again after breakfast at Kak Pah, with full stomachs and lighter hearts. From there, we took a slow, unhurried drive along what we still believed was the prettiest stretch of Batu Buruk.

As the drive went on, reality gently set in. Much had changed. What used to be a quiet, open beach had become more built up, with a large public square now sitting at its centre. It felt strange—still beautiful, but no longer the Batu Buruk we remembered.

Back to School, Decades Later

We continued along Jalan Negara, heading toward my old high school, Sultan Sulaiman Secondary School. It had been 38 years since graduation. Standing there again stirred something deep. Some buildings looked different, yet many corners remained exactly the same. It felt familiar in a way that words could not quite explain, like greeting an old friend after a lifetime apart.

Adult Errands, Old Streets

After my quiet trip down memory lane, we drove back toward town and stopped at Syarikat Air Terengganu (SATU). While one of us waited in BiBi, Cat went inside to clarify a notice we had received about an unpaid bill. Thankfully, everything was sorted out smoothly.

From there, we drove to a nearby car wash. It was modern, spacious, and efficient. For RM20.00 (≈ USD/EUR4), BiBi came out clean and refreshed—ready for more miles ahead.

Fixing What Time Wore Down

Next, we stopped at Mr. DIY to buy supplies needed for my late aunty’s house. We picked up a mop, buckets, pails, detergent, hand wash, padlocks, and various small items. The total came to RM196.90 (≈ USD42 / EUR39).

We then spent about an hour at the house. While Cat mopped the living area again and again, we replaced old, rusted padlocks at the back of the house. Each small fix felt meaningful, as if we were slowly bringing life back into a place that had been silent for too long.

Before heading back, we returned to Mr. DIY once more to buy a few flip flops for use around the house. Only then did we finally make our way back to the Airbnb to rest.

A Day Filled With Quiet Meaning

It was not a sightseeing day, nor an exciting one. But it mattered. The drive, the places, the small chores—all of it tied the past and present together in ways we did not expect.

Stay tuned for our next video as we continue our search for authentic Laksa and Laksam, chasing flavours just as meaningful as the memories.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:
Syarikat Air Terengganu (SATU) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/R3VHT76MmrNy8QySA

TGG Day 4 │ Nasi Dagang KAK PAH

Nasi Dagang Morning

There was a long running debate about which nasi dagang was the best in Kuala Terengganu. For us, there was no such thing as “better,” only different but equally good.

Nasi Dagang Atas Tol had a sweeter gravy and prettier presentation, but we still felt Kak Pah’s version held a slight edge when it came to authentic taste. From what we had heard over the years, our generation leaned toward Kak Pah, while the younger crowd preferred Atas Tol. Maybe it really came down to who had the sweeter tooth.

A Late Start After a Long Day

After the fourteen hour spring cleaning the day before, we slept in and only woke up at nine. By ten, we were out the door and drove a short distance to Nasi Dagang Kak Pah, already craving something familiar and comforting.

Breakfast at Kak Pah

We did not hesitate when ordering:

  • 3 plates of Nasi Dagang Ikan Tongkol
  • 2 Iced Lemon Teas
  • 1 Hot Nescafe

Our hearty breakfast came to just RM25.00 (≈ USD5 / EUR5). It was simple, satisfying, and tasted exactly like it should—unchanged, honest, and deeply familiar.

On the Road Again

With full stomachs and lighter hearts, we hopped back into BiBi and went for a drive.

Stay tuned for our next video as we drove down memory lane, revisiting places that shaped who we were.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Wednesday, 5 June 2024

TGG Day 3 │ Spring Cleaning: 14 Hours in 30 Minutes!

Spring Cleaning, At Long Last

We woke up at half past seven and left the Airbnb at twenty past eight. Brendan decided to sleep in, so it was just the two of us for the start of the day.

Breakfast Before the Big Task

We drove to my late aunty’s house, parked BiBi there, and walked a short distance to a nearby breakfast stall called Pok Ceq Corner. We ordered simple, familiar food. We had nasi lemak with fish, while Cat chose nasi berlauk.

While we were eating, our neighbour Heng and his wife joined us. It felt good not to be alone in this moment. We decided to treat everyone to breakfast, ordering extra nasi lemak and drinks for the four of us. The total bill came to RM22.00 (≈ USD5 / EUR4), a small price for a warm start to the day.

Cleaning Begins

After breakfast, we walked back to the house. At 9:30am, Zuhdi arrived with his cleaning crew of three men. They immediately got to work, starting upstairs. The job was bigger than we remembered, and it took them the entire morning just to get through the upper floor.

As the hours passed, piles of rubbish began to grow. That brought us a new problem we had not fully planned for—how were we going to dispose of all that trash?

Solving Problems Together

Thankfully, Heng stepped in again. He connected us with Jenny, who promised to send a lorry to collect the rubbish at 2:30pm. It was a huge relief to know we had a solution.

At 1:30pm, the cleaning crew stopped for their lunch break. We ordered our own meal through Grab, excited to see that our old favourite Minang restaurant was still around. We ordered:

  • Nasi Ikan Keli Berlada
  • Nasi Daging Rendang
  • 2 iced Sirap Limau
  • 1 hot Coffee

Lunch came to RM40.90 (≈ USD9 / EUR8), and it gave us just enough energy to push on.

A Long, Exhausting Day

The rubbish lorry arrived around the same time the cleaners returned from lunch. The amount of trash was so large that the lorry had to make two trips. Including labour, the total cost came to RM450.00 (≈ USD96 / EUR88).

Around the same time, an electrician named Seng arrived to fix a faulty light that had been tripping the electricity. That repair cost RM30.00 (≈ USD6 / EUR6).

The cleaning crew worked steadily until dusk, then stopped again to perform their prayers and have dinner. They returned at a quarter to nine, just as we finally sat down for our own dinner off camera. By then, we were completely worn out.

Mission Accomplished

The cleaning was finally completed close to 11:00pm. When we looked at the clock, it hit us—we had spent an incredible 14 hours overseeing the cleaning of one house.

It had been physically tiring and emotionally heavy, but it also felt right. The house that had stood abandoned for so long finally felt cared for again.

Stay tuned for our next videos as we went on the hunt for Nasi Dagang, Laksa, and Laksam the following day.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tuesday, 4 June 2024

TGG Day 2 │ Pantai PENARIK: Ombak Pantai • QM Celup Tepung

Pantai Penarik by Day and Night

We met you again as we took the scenic coastal route and arrived at Pantai Penarik just before noon. The day felt unhurried, and the sea stretched quietly beside the road as we pulled up to Ombak Pantai at a quarter to twelve. The restaurant sat right on the beach, with open views and a steady sea breeze.

Lunch by the Sea

We kept lunch simple but satisfying. Sitting close enough to hear the waves, we ordered:

  • 2 plates of fried vermicelli
  • 1 plate of fried yellow noodles
  • 1 skewer of sata
  • 30 sticks of keropok lekor
  • A variety of fruit juices and drinks

Our relaxed seaside lunch came to RM69.50 (≈ USD15 / EUR14). It was light, tasty, and perfect for the warm afternoon.

Onward to Kota Bharu

With lunch done, we got back into BiBi and continued our drive to Kota Bharu, where we met my cousin Emily. The afternoon was spent off camera catching up and discussing matters related to my late aunty’s estate. It was practical, personal, and quietly important.

Back Along the Coast

Later that evening, we began our drive back to Kuala Terengganu, once again taking the coastal route via Tok Bali and Penarik. By then, hunger had returned. Ombak Pantai was packed, so we decided to try somewhere else nearby.

Dinner at the Beach

We chose QM Celup Tepung Pesisir Pantai for a quick and simple dinner by the sea. We ordered:

  • Fried yellow noodles
  • Maggi mee soup
  • 2 sets of keropok lekor (12 sticks per set)
  • 1 ikan kembung ICT (mackerel dipped in flour and deep fried)
  • A round of drinks

Our casual dinner by the waves came to RM37.00 (≈ USD8 / EUR7). It was nothing fancy, but it was warm, comforting, and full of familiar flavours.

A Long Day Ends

At 9:10pm, we resumed our drive and arrived back at the Airbnb around 10:15pm. It had been a long day—part errands, part road trip, part family business—but the stops by the sea made it feel gentler.

We hoped to turn in early, as the next morning promised another early start. We had a 9:00am appointment with Zuhdi from Terengganu Cleaning Services, and a big day lay ahead.

Please stay tuned.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:
QM Celup Tepung Pesisir Pantai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/F9DxzGFy5cTUF3To7

KBR Day 1: KOTA BHARU Day Trip

Kota Bharu Day Trip

We met you again as we set off on our day trip to Kota Bharu. This trip had a clear purpose. We planned to meet my cousin Emily, a lawyer and the administrator of my late aunty’s estate. There were several matters that needed to be discussed, and we felt it was best done face to face.

At the same time, we decided to make the most of the journey with a stop at Pantai Penarik for an early and simple lunch.

Lunch by the Sea

We stopped at Ombak Pantai and enjoyed a calm, picturesque lunch with the sea right in front of us. The breeze, the sound of the waves, and the short pause from driving made it one of those moments that felt quietly perfect.

With lunch out of the way, we got back into BiBi and continued our drive toward Kota Bharu.

Catching Up with Family

We arrived at Emily’s office at 2:45pm. She hopped into BiBi and brought us to her favourite coffee shop, Kedai Kopi Khuan Heong Yan.

The next two hours passed off camera. We talked, laughed, and caught up properly while discussing matters related to my late aunty’s estate. Plates of local sweet cakes came and went as the conversation flowed, mixing practical matters with family memories.

Eventually, we dropped Emily back at her firm and said our goodbyes, grateful for the time and clarity the meeting had given us.

Coastal Drive Home

On Emily’s suggestion, we took the coastal road back via Tok Bali, passing through Penarik once again. By then, we were hungry, but Ombak Pantai was packed. Instead, we chose another spot nearby and had a quick, simple dinner at QM.

At 9:10pm, we resumed our drive. About an hour later, we arrived back at the Airbnb, tired but content.

The day had been long, practical, and quietly meaningful—one of those journeys that mixed responsibility with small pleasures along the way.

Stay tuned for our next video, where we focus on Pantai Penarik, the place where we ended up having both lunch and dinner.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:
Kedai Kopi Khuan Heong Yan - https://maps.app.goo.gl/nnMLXVebbkCoVT6e7

TGG Day 2 │ Warung SURIA

Terengganu Breakfast, at a Gentle Pace

We woke up at eight, still tired from everything that had happened the day before. Our bodies felt heavy, but our minds were calmer. It felt good to wake up without rushing anywhere.

A Local Morning Favourite

After running a small errand or two, we finally headed out for breakfast. We went to Warung Suria, a roadside coffee shop along Jalan Persinggahan, not far from the Primula Hotel. It was the kind of place locals loved—simple, familiar, and full of traditional Terengganu flavours.

As soon as we arrived, Brendan found us a table. We walked over to the buffet-style counter and ordered without much hesitation:

  • Nasi Dagang with fish for the two of us
  • Nasi Dagang with chicken for Brendan
  • 1 hot Nescafe
  • 3 iced lemon teas

We also added 20 pieces of kuih boom, which felt like a small celebration on its own.

A Comforting Start to the Day

Our first breakfast in Kuala Terengganu came to RM36.50 (≈ USD8 / EUR7). It was filling, comforting, and exactly what we needed—nothing fancy, just good food that reminded us of where we were.

On the Road Again

With our stomachs full and spirits lifted, we got back into BiBi and began our drive to Kota Bharu, ready for the next part of our journey.

Stay tuned for our next video as we went on a day trip to Kota Bharu, with both daytime and nighttime pitstops at Pantai Penarik.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Monday, 3 June 2024

TGG Day 1 │ D'PERAHU Seafood

Terengganu Seafood, At Last

We woke from our long nap well into the evening. After freshening up and shaking off the heaviness of the day, we headed down to the car park, ready to finally step out again.

One Last Check

Before dinner, we drove to my late aunty’s house to make sure the gate had not been blocked again. We met a neighbour, Heng, who listened patiently and shared our frustration. He agreed that Vivienne and her husband had gone too far and offered calm, practical advice on how we could handle the situation moving forward. His kindness lifted our spirits more than he realised.

Fuel Check and Numbers

We then drove to the Petronas station at Batu Buruk to refuel BiBi. The journey from Kuala Lumpur had covered 466 kilometres, consuming 40.36 litres of petrol, which came to RM86.78 (≈ USD18 / EUR17). This worked out to 11.54 km per litre, which we felt was fair given the distance and load.

With that done, it was finally time for dinner.

Seafood at “Benteng”

We headed to D’Perahu Seafood, located in an area fondly known as Benteng. We could not quite remember if we had eaten at this particular stall before, but we had visited this stretch many times. With ample parking and plenty of seafood choices, Benteng had always been our go to when the craving for seafood struck.

We arrived early and had most of the place to ourselves. After browsing the menu, we ordered:

  •  Ikan Jemuduk (Giant Trevally) bakar berempah
  •  Sotong (calamari) telur masin
  •  Tomyam ayam
  • 2 plain omelettes
  • 4 plates of white rice
  • Blue Lemon Mojito
  • Lemon Lychee Mojito
  • Mango Mojito

Our seafood dinner came to RM116.00 (≈ USD25 / EUR23). The food was generous, comforting, and exactly what we needed after a long, emotionally draining day.

A Calm End to the Day

After dinner, we took a relaxed drive around town, letting the familiar streets of Kuala Terengganu ease us into the night. Eventually, we made our way back to the Airbnb and settled in, ready to rest again.

The day had been heavy, but moments like this—good food, familiar places, and quiet reflection—reminded us why we kept coming back home.

Stay tuned for our next video, where we start the following morning with a traditional Terengganu breakfast, just a five minute walk from the Airbnb.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

TGG Day 1 │ AIRBNB: Pangsapuri Ladang Tanjung

Seaview Apartment, A Fresh Start

Feeling tired but not beaten, we decided not to refuel BiBi and drove straight to the Airbnb we had booked. We needed to clean up, catch our breath, and gather our thoughts after the emotionally heavy day.

Sometimes the best thing to do was to pause.

First Impressions

The host described her home as a modern sea view apartment in the heart of Kuala Terengganu, and that description turned out to be accurate. The apartment was located in a newly built building, right across from KTCC Mall, and close to just about everything we needed—cafés, shops, restaurants, the drawbridge, Shahbandar Jetty, and Pasar Payang.

We had received the check in instructions earlier that morning. We followed them carefully, keyed in the passcode, and stepped inside.

It immediately felt like a safe space.

Home for Five Nights

This would be our home for the next five nights. The three bedroom unit was spacious, cosy, and thoughtfully set up. Everything we needed was already there. The highlight, of course, was the view of the sea, calm and wide, offering exactly the kind of quiet we were craving.

We decided to let the footage tell the full story of the apartment—but we could already say this was a place we would recommend.

The stay cost us RM360.00 per night (≈ USD71 / EUR76). It was more than we usually spent, but after everything that had happened, we felt it was alright to live a little more comfortably this time.

Rest at Last

We unpacked, settled in, and lay down for a long nap. When we finally woke up, the sky outside had already darkened. The day had been draining, but the apartment gave us exactly what we needed—rest, quiet, and a sense of calm.

Sometimes, recovery did not come from fixing things, but from stopping long enough to breathe.

Stay tuned for our next video, where we headed out nearby for a traditional seafood dinner to end the day gently.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

TGG Day 1 │ A Series of Unfortunate Events!

An Abandoned Home

After our comforting lunch at On The Way Kopitiam, we drove quietly to Jalan Sultan Ismail, toward a house that had been standing still for far too long. It was the home of my late aunty. She had passed away peacefully a few years ago, having lived alone. Since then, the house had been left unattended, slowly falling into silence.

We had made a quiet promise to ourselves—to return, to face it, and to see if we could make it a home again.

Returning With Purpose

The last time we were here was in November 2021. Back then, life had been overwhelming, and our plans to clean and care for the house never moved forward. This time felt different. Before coming, we contacted Terengganu Cleaning Services and agreed on a fee for a proper spring clean. Zuhdi, the owner, promised to come the next morning.

All that was left was to show him the exact location.

A Rough Welcome

When we arrived, our hearts sank. A large black SUV was parked right in front of the house, blocking the gate. It felt disrespectful somehow—another reminder of how forgotten this place had become. We called the neighbour, Vivienne, who said the car belonged to her husband. He eventually moved it, but not before a firmer conversation than we would have liked.

Even then, we pushed on.

More Bad News

As we walked around, we noticed something else that worried us even more. There was no water. No electricity. The house felt lifeless in a way that hurt more than we expected.

We called my cousin Emily, who was both a lawyer and the administrator of my aunty’s estate. She admitted she had overlooked the utility bills. Hearing that hurt—but mistakes happened, and we knew what mattered was fixing things now.

Postponing, Not Giving Up

We immediately called Zuhdi to explain the situation. We asked to move the cleaning appointment to Wednesday, giving us time to sort out the water and electricity. The plan was to visit Syarikat Air Terengganu (SATU) first thing the next morning, while Emily worked on restoring the power.

We left feeling deflated—but not defeated.

Footnote: A Turn for the Better

The next day, we went to SATU and settled the water bill. To our surprise and relief, the water supply had not been disconnected. We were told to report it if there were any issues.

When we returned to the house, we tested everything. The water ran. The lights worked once we reset the circuit breaker. It turned out only one outdoor tap was blocked. The rest of the house was fine.

We called Zuhdi and confirmed the 9:00am Wednesday appointment.

For the first time in a long while, that house felt like it had hope again.

Stay tuned for our next video, where we finally checked into a warm and welcoming Airbnb called DERU.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

TGG Day 1 │ ON THE WAY Kopitiam

A Change in Plans

We met you again as we drove toward what we thought would be a very familiar and comforting lunch.

Our First Love: Chuan Kee

In our hearts, Chuan Kee served the best chicken rice in the world. We knew we were biased, but we had tried chicken rice in many places across many states, and nothing ever came close. For us, Chuan Kee was not just food—it was memory.

When we first got married in 1998, we lived with my parents, just a few hundred metres from Restoran Chuan Kee. Every Friday, which was the weekend in Terengganu, we would go there straight after Mass. It felt like yesterday that we were doing that, yet somehow it had been over twenty years.

Every time we returned to Kuala Terengganu, Chuan Kee was always our first stop. It felt like coming home.

A Small Disappointment

That day, however, when we arrived, Chuan Kee was already closing. We stood there for a moment, slightly deflated—but not upset. Some places were simply meant to be revisited another time. We bookmarked it in our hearts again and moved on.

Plan B: On The Way

Our backup plan was On The Way, a restaurant we knew well. It was just a short drive away along Jalan Bandar Baru in Kampung Cina, Kuala Terengganu’s own Chinatown.

We ordered what we always ordered, without even thinking:

  •  Laksa Kuah Putih for us
  •  Laksam Kuah Putih for Cat
  •  Laksa Kuah Merah for Brendan
  •  Rojak Betik and Fries to share
  •  3 Iced Lemon Teas
  • 1 Juice Jambu Asamboi

Our first meal back in Kuala Terengganu came to RM68.00 (≈ USD14 / EUR13). It was warm, familiar, and comforting in its own way.

Back to Family Matters

With lunch done, we drove to my late aunty’s house. We needed to share the location with Zuhdi from Terengganu Cleaning Services, whom we had an appointment with the next morning.

It felt good to be back—familiar roads, familiar food, familiar memories. Even when plans changed, the place still welcomed us gently.

Stay tuned for our next video, where a series of unfortunate events began to unfold.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

TGG Day 1 │ KL to KT: 450km in Time-Lapse

Kuala Terengganu, Once More

The last time we travelled to my hometown was in November 2021, and it was a difficult visit. That trip ended with us catching Covid 19, and not just any strain—it was the Delta variant. We were bedridden for weeks and felt drained for months after. It cast a long shadow over what should have been time spent at home.

This time, we returned with hope. We wanted new memories—happier ones.

Hitting the Road Early

We left our condo at 7:40 in the morning, setting off for the long drive up the east coast. Twenty minutes later, we passed the Gombak Toll Plaza. After nearly an hour, we exited the Karak Highway at Bentong, drove past the Karak Toll Plaza, and continued onto the East Coast Expressway (LPT).

The road felt calm, and with each kilometre, we felt closer to something familiar.

Breakfast Stop Along the Way

At 9:30am, we stopped at the Temerloh Rest & Recreation Area for breakfast. We ordered from Selera NJ, while Brendan chose food from Hafeeqs Sri Jergoh nearby.

Our breakfast included:

  • 2 plates of nasi lemak
  • 1 bowl of kari ayam kueh teow
  • An assortment of drinks

The total came to RM22.50 (≈ USD5 / EUR4). After eating and a quick bathroom break, we were back on the road by 10:00am.

Still a Long Way to Go

About an hour and a half later, we made another stop at the Perasing Rest & Recreation Area for a very urgent reason. Most of the journey was filmed in time lapse, and we later stitched it into a long driving montage we hoped you would enjoy.

Almost There

Two more hours passed quietly. At 1:00pm, we finally drove past the Kuala Terengganu Toll Plaza. We were back.

The heat, the familiarity, the sense of home—all of it returned at once.

What Came Next

We headed straight into town for lunch, already thinking of a place that had never failed us.

Stay tuned for our next video, where we had our first meal back at our perennial favourite chicken rice shop—Chuan Kee.

(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:
R & R Temerloh East Bound - https://maps.app.goo.gl/p7KQYJKSiK99zenw9
Kuala Terengganu Toll Plaza (Kg Gemuroh)