Rafflesia, the biggest flower in the world!

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The Rafflesia is the largest flower in the world and the symbol of Sabah, Borneo.  Flowers measure up to 1 meter across. There are 55 species of Rafflesia, of which 9 are found in Borneo. Pictured here is the Rafflesia Keithii found near the village of Poring. Alongside their rarity, size and unusual appearance, it is the strange lifestyle of Rafflesias that make them so fascinating. The Rafflesia is a parasitic flower. The only visible part of the plant is a single flower that has no leaves, stems or roots.

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Wings of Borneo

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Butterflies and moths belong to the same order of insects, called Lepidoptera. The name means ‘scaly wings’ as most butterflies and moths are covered with tiny overlapping scales. The scales not only protect and strengthen their wings, but also form attractive colours and patterns. Here are a few guidelines, as always in flora & fauna, there are a lot of exceptions to the rules…

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Frogs of Mount Kinabalu

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Mount Kinabalu (4095m) is the highest mountain of the Malay Archipelago and a well known tourist attraction . The ascent is a 2 day/1 night ordeal and by no means an easy trek. The thoughest part is the gruelling descent, a true torture to the knees! After paying admission fees, overnight stays, guide fees, park fees, etc… You will have heavily contributed to the Malay economy. It’s expensive, really expensive.

frogs Mt Kinabalu (3 of 8)

As I wanted to spare my knees, save money and avoid crowdy mountains all in one go, I decided to explore the Kinabalu national park.

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Red Sea Safari

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The term safari originates originally from the Arabic word سفرية (safarīyah) meaning “a journey”.

In Swahili Safari means “a long journey”. So, as you can imagine, I’m all for safari’s!  They come in all shapes and sizes, and I love them all. This particular long journey took place on – and in – the Red Sea. We got on a boat in the Travco Marina in Sharm El Sheick Egypt, kicked of our shoes and our feet would touch shoes nor shore for the coming 8 days. In early november we were spoiled with + 30°C temperatures and even the water was 27°C!

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