Return to Kuching

It was almost 3 years since I was last in Sarawak. In 2006, I was in Kuching photographing the Iban people, and then went by boat to Sibu and up the Rajang river to Kapit to visit a traditional longhouse. Following that, I went by Malaysia Airlines via Miri to the hill-perched settlement of Bario where the Kelabit people call their hometown.

Today I arrived back in Kuching on Air Asia 5206 to a familiar air. There have been changes, like the iconic State Asembly rotunda building across the river from the Waterfront. That wasn't there 3 years ago. Sarawak loves iconic stand alone structures. Especially state buildings. The Main Bazaar stretch of old shop houses seemed busier and houses more touristic stores.

I am here with my photographer colleague Andy and his wife Maria, to begin a 10-day Photo Travel workshop with a group of enthusiasts from the UK. The main group arrives tomorrow, and the fun begins..