In a Cavern in Vietnam

A Waterfall inside a Cavern in Yunnan, China

Weekly Photo Challenge: Time ( Stalactite and Stalagmite )

We only perceive time through changes.

However, both stalactite and stalagmite in caverns only grow very slowly.

Limestone stalactites in particular form extremely slowly – usually less than 10 cm every thousand years – and radiometric dating has shown that some are over 190,000 years old.

Here are a couple of photos taken in the limestone caverns of Yunnan, China.

While I am in awe with these formations, I don’t particularly fancy seeing them lit up in multi-colors.

I prefer seeing them in their natural color and state.

 

Weekly Photo Challenge: One (Cave)

This week’s Photo Challenge is One.

Our journey to Yunnan, China took us to a huge limestone cave full of stalactites and stalagmites.

This image is particularly striking as it gives the impression that one stalagmite is holding up the whole roof of the cave.

Langkawi – Beyond Sun, Sand and Sea

What a joy it was to start the day with a cup of freshly brewed coffee and breakfast outdoor, overlooking the blue sea in Langkawi.

Before it got really hot, we went for a boat ride which brought us through some limestone caverns.

By noon, it was pretty hot.  Lunching at the Four Seasons Hotel, overlooking the beach and clear blue sky was really enjoyable. All you could see was  pristine white sand stretching for miles, overlooking small limestone islands and the blue sea.

More activities in the afternoon. We drove around and took the cable car up the hill top to have a panoramic view of the harbour. Walking along the cable stayed bridge with just one column support in the middle and intermediate lookout platforms clipped to the side of the footbridge was an amazing experience!

Visited the mangrove area by boat, watching black kites diving down for the food. We were keenly aware that a lot of work had gone into making sure the mangroves would thrive but feeding the hawks would reduce their ability to find food themselves.

We swinged by a fish farm. Like any other tourists, we were eager to touch the stingrays in a fish farm tank. Immersing our feet in a tank of small fishes, we had a strange sensation as the fishes nibbled our feet which we were told would improve our skin.

After several hours of driving around visiting more places, it was almost time for afternoon high tea by the side of the marina. While resting, it was relaxing to see yachts and boats.

Strolling for hours, visiting more interesting places, we were tempted by the snacks at roadside cafes.

We were impressed by the appearance of the boutique Spanish style hotel  Casa Del Mar and decided to try out al fresco dining by the sea. Sitting under the gently swaying palm trees, and watching the sun setting was the only thing we wanted to do.

What a luxurious life! We realized how blessed we were and were grateful that we were given such a blissful day.