Hi Sue,

In the summer of 1999 I was 50, and celebrated with a month travelling on my own in Malaysia. It was the first time I had done this since my early twenties. I found Kuala Lumpur rather intimidating (watch out for the fact that taxis only stop at special places, like bus stops).

Flying is dirt cheap. I can really recommend Zeck Travellers Inn if you go to Kota Bharu (telephone 09 7431613, or email ztraveller_inn@hotmail.com). It's basic but extremely friendly; I felt more relaxed there than anywhere else. They will organise all sorts for you. Say hello from me if you get there.

The Perhentian Islands are beautiful and I learnt to dive there, but you can't go at this time of year. If you like bird watching there is a mad guy called Durai who works for the World Wide Fund for Nature at Frasers Hill who will take you out endlessly and for free (telephone 019 918888 0514 or email dure@rocketmail.com.

I think the jungle trekking is best left to the young or very fit, and I don't think you really see that much.