When I was in Kuching, our unofficial tour guide, Malcolm, brought us to a traveller lodge belonging to a good friend of his.

We had a crazy party there, me and the journalists who had been invited to visit Kuching.

I made a video of the madness. I was frankly quite amazed at how talented my journalist friends were and by the fact that we all clicked like old friends even though we’d only met each other the day before.

Now, a bit about The Fairview because I really liked it.

It’s a large heritage house that’s been converted to a budget hostel and is managed by a middle-aged couple who treat guests like friends.

With a 25-guest capacity and a price range of RM25 (S$10.40) to RM115 ($47.90), it’s located within walking distance from the city centre.

There are dorm rooms (good for trips with friends) and different sized bedrooms for couples or families. Totally a great alternative to staying at a hotel.

It actually looks rather creepy when you first step in because it’s so old and the furniture and decoration are, like, antique.

But once you get to know Eric and Annie, the friendly owners, and settle in, you’ll start feeling cosy and comfortable. The place probably looks different in the day, anyway.

They served us tuak, a rice wine made by the natives in Kuching.

There are different kinds of tuak which use slightly different ingredients. I really like the sweet ones. The one we tried at Fairview was sweet and delicious!

Annie showed us the guestbook, which has been signed by hundreds of happy and grateful tourists.

There was even a homemade thank-you card.

Most importantly, there’s broadband Internet, and you can make reservations online.

Actually, the guys in the video weren’t crazy because of the tuak and beer. They behaved like that the entire trip. It’s just them.

;)

Cheers to Malcolm, Nicholas, Javad, Wai Kit, Lili and Soh. And, of course, to Eric, Annie and pretty Flora!