With the value of the ringgit at record lows, a holiday abroad has become quite unaffordable. So, if you have a few days to spare, why not seek out some domestic spots?

Two highland resorts, Fraser’s Hill and Cameron Highlands, are great if you’re after some quiet time. The drive up to the two holiday destinations can be an experience in itself.

If you pick Fraser’s Hill as your first stop, it will mean driving through Kuala Kubu Bharu, the last town at the foothill.

KKB, as it is affectionately known, is as laidback as can be, but there are a few surprises. For instance, a quiet backstreet has been turned into the town’s canvas, adding colour to an otherwise grey backdrop.

But the town clock tower is a disappointment. It was built in 1927 to commemorate the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the grandparents of the reigning King of England Charles III.

However, it has since been abandoned to the ravages of nature.

On the drive up to Fraser’s Hill, one is accompanied by an orchestra of Mother Nature’s most melodious creatures. But at intervals, the sweet sound of birds chirping gives way to a cacophony of cicadas buzzing and macaques shrieking.

Back in the day, people waited at The Gap, a hill station, for their turn to drive up or down the single-lane winding road. But today, there are separate roads for ascending and descending traffic that cuts down on travel time both ways.

The drop in temperature is quite discernible as you approach the peak.

A row of shops not unlike what can be seen in an English country town will greet you as you enter Fraser’s Hill. This is a legacy of the almost two centuries of British presence in Malaysia, all the way down to the red phone booth and letter box.

A little way off the town centre is the Glasshouse where one can stop for afternoon tea. Another relic of British rule. The burnt cheesecake here is to die for.

If you’re looking to have a drink after sunset, the only establishment that comes close to a pub is Scott’s. But the last call comes early, at 9pm.

Fraser’s Hill is not a place for an exciting night life. This is where you experience nature and perhaps find a spot somewhere for contemplation.

For nature lovers, there are a number of trails into the jungle. It is an easy walk into the heart of the forest where one can even see pine trees.

The road from Fraser’s Hill to Cameron Highlands is equally winding, with many sharp curves along certain stretches. At intervals, are stalls set up by the Orang Asli to sell everything from buah petai to cane furniture.

Tanah Rata is a bustling little town in the Cameron Highlands. For a town with a large Chinese community, one cannot help noticing the high number of Indian restaurants here. The Chinese restaurants are found mostly in Brinchang, another community further uphill.

Given that it is the month of Ramadan, the pasar malam was a hive of activity. But the choices were limited, mostly sweet potatoes, boiled and ready to serve.

Between Tanah Rata and Brinchang is the Agro Market, which touts itself as the most iconic landmark here. Everything – from corn and strawberries to stuffed toys and honey – is available here.

The Agro Market also doubles up as a sanctuary for animals such as the alpaca and sheep.

Evenings in Tanah Rata are a little livelier than on Fraser’s Hill. There are several pubs where one can spend their time. One such pub is “Travellers”, which turned out to be quite pleasant.

Given that temperatures on both Fraser’s Hill and Cameron Highlands can drop to -20°C after sundown, bring along a sweater or light jacket.

If you want a few days away from the city, these highland resorts are a great place to be.