Every year, Sabahans enjoy a long two day public holiday for the Harvest Festival on the 30th and 31st of May. I usually celebrate it with my friends, but this time around we decided to check out the fireflies + river cruise through Binsulok River with a local travel agent. Because, it was cheap!
It was my first time seeing THAT, MANY, FIREFLIES!
SO HAPPY!
The tour started around 2.30pm, they picked us up from home and the drive to Binsulok which is around the corner of Kuala Penyu's district took approximately 2.5 hours. By the time we reached there, we were given light snacks and refreshments.
What I really loved about going into the districts was that, most of the jobs (cook, guides, boat drivers) were being managed by the locals themselves. Turns out, the locals are not only hardworking but really, truly multitalented. By the end of the night, they were also the entertainers and sang songs of all kinds including Korean and Chinese songs! (there were Chinese and Korean tourists for context).
Weather, was quite kind on our side. It is virtually impossible to take photos of fireflies lighting up the sky through lenses, so most of the fireflies lighting up the night are only kept in our mental notes which truly is what matters. And then there is also pollution.
If the place has light pollution (where there are many unnecessary lights) the fireflies will be literally overshadowed by the lights.
In short for a perfect night to see as many fireflies light up the sky, the area must be without pollution - light and just environment in general.
The itinerary:
2.00pm Pick up at home
5:00pm Arrive at the jetty
5.15pm Light refreshments and toilet breaks
5.30pm Ferry ride
6.00pm Sunset and dinner
7.00pm onwards Fireflies Spotting
8.30pm Night entertainment and home!
How was ours?
IT WAS PERFECT! Our eyes were coloured with fireflies from sun down till when we were done. All children, grandpas, lovebirds and solo travellers would truly enjoy this. You could see everyone trying to touch the elusive fireflies, as they tease around you and leave you dust of trail wanting to play more.
It's actually very magical. At one point, I just sat there enjoying the view, and children's trickle in amusement in the background. It was really beautiful.
The other thing to note is the weather. If the weather is on your side, you are lucky and should be blessed with throngs of fireflies lighting up the sky. Otherwise, check with the agent if reimbursement or reschedule is possible.
Jacqueline Rowena @ Jacqkie.
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