Bali Hai

The film South Pacific always cheers me up partly because it reminds me of amazing trips to Pulau Tioman, the fictional setting for Bali Hai.
My first visit to Tioman was in 1984, a staff holiday when I worked at UWCSEA. There was a ferry with thumping engine from Mersing to the island, which came into view with impressive peaks. Accommodation was basic and so close to the sea that we could hear the waves lapping the shore throughout the night.
Living in Singapore, it was easy to revisit and one of the best trips was with my parents. Mum and Dad had come to visit my marvellous flat in a small development with swimming pool, tennis and squash courts. I suggested Tioman and they were very keen, though I warned Dad that we might feel seasick on the small fishing boat that ferried visitors. As my parents were in their mid fifties, I was also concerned that on arrival they might struggle with having to disembark in water, as there was no pier at Nazri's beach. They were still keen, so we had a brilliant holiday, staying in little wooden A-frame huts. We swam in the clean South China Sea, ate local food at the little beach cafe (mostly fish and rice), explored the area and extended our visit when the cafe owner offered to get us the additional cash we needed by taking a cheque up to the only hotel, on the other side of the island.
I have always intended to return to Pulau Tioman, though I would not attempt to recreate those holidays. Next time, I would like to stay in a hotel with more luxury, though it would be good still to arrive by boat for the joy of seeing the island appear over the horizon.