Malaysia

Well, we are in Kuala Lumpur. I don't know how we managed to go through the check-in counter with between 55-60kg of luggage without being charged for over weight. Even the car boot was full. Tent, sleeping bags, matteresses, etc are bulky. The counter ladies were helpful.

The climate in KL hasn't changed - hot and humid- and it is raining cats and dogs outside. The roads between the airport and city are a lot better, but the roads within the city are jammed as ever.

Now we have taken the first step on this long journey, let's take a moment to look back at the preparation in the last few weeks. Our expedition leader, Pete Deverson (Odyssey Overland), advised us, amongst other things, to get the visa to china before we leave. This was an issue as most Consulates don't issue visas more than 2 months prior to entry. It is something to be weary of for people who want to do this sort of thing. we eventually got the visas through some help from people in the China Embassy in Canberra. We also managed to get the vaccinations done. This time round, it was a very simple affair.

We have allocated some time in KL to do a bit more shopping for items needed for the trip, eg malaria tablets, imodium (very important), some sweat pants, etc. Got most of that done on the first day.

Will take some photos over the next few days - when the rain stops - and post.