Category: Holiday Guide

Guide to Architecture in Malaysia

If you are a lover of buildings and architecture, Malaysia offers a wide range of attractions for you. This is largely contributed by the different colonies that have come to the country throughout history and have set up their bases here. You will be able to appreciate all types of architecture here in Malaysia ranging from the very traditional ones in villages and small towns to the ultra-modern state-of-the-art ones found in the major cities around the country.

Historically, Malaysia has been colonized by the Portuguese, the Dutch, the Japanese and the British where these superpowers in the past have left more than just their traditions here. While in Malaysia, they have built homes and buildings that cemented their influence over the people here. Walking around the major towns around the many states will provide you with a quick understanding of the level of influence here. Alor Setar in Kedah is well known for its Dutch architectural designs while in Malacca, you will be able to see a lot of Portuguese designs around. If you are around in Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur, you will be able to see a lot of Chinese styled buildings and structures which are still being used today.

In Negri Sembilan, you will be able to see a lot of Minangkabau architecture which comes from Indonesia. These are basically remnants of the matriarchal Adat Perpatih which are still being practiced by certain communities today. In the villages located around the country, you will be able to see the Kampong homes which are built on stilts to avoid rising waters during floods which happen every once in a while. Apart from that, you will also be able to experience the natural living styles here without much aid of modern world technology, which is an amazing practice among the communities.

For those of you who like the modern architectural designs, the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya are the best places to go. Kuala Lumpur hosts the Petronas Twin Towers, once the tallest buildings in the world which is still being regarded as an architectural wonder of the modern world. Here you will also be able to see the modern buildings like the Menara TM as well as the major international shopping centers too. Putrajaya, which is the administrative city of the country hosts all the major governmental departments and agencies where the buildings and structures here are designed and built by internationally renowned architects.

A guide to Food in Malaysia

Malaysia is known as the food haven of the world. With so many different communities and races, food offerings are abundant where it is impossible to try out all the different types of food from all the communities here. Depending on where you are visiting, you will find that they basically offer a specific type of cuisine where it is known for. Malaysians are known to be very knowledgeable when it comes to food and they are also known to travel high and far for a specific dish.

The most popular state where food is known for would be Penang. This is where you will find a wide variety of Chinese dishes like the Hokkien Har Mee, the Char Koey Teow and many more. Penang is believed to be the best place to go if you want to visit a place where many types of delicious cuisine congregate. Places like Gurney Drive is one of the most renowned spots in the country where one can find all types of food well known in Penang. The same can be said about Ipoh in Perak where you will be welcomed with the internationally renowned Ipoh Bean Sprouts Chicken Rice and many others.

Meanwhile, towards the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia, the state of Johor is very popular with the Malay cuisine where they are known for their laksa and their Otak-Otak, a type of fish barbecue popularly taken as snacks. Sabah and Sarawak, the 2 East Malaysian states are very popular for their spicy cuisine as the chillies produced here are known to be spicier than those found in the Peninsular.

If you do not have time to travel to the outskirts or visit many states during your trip to Malaysia, exploring around Kuala Lumpur will allow you to experience the best food around the country as well. Most food courts here offer a variety of dishes that incorporates the various communities here while many areas like Kepong, Cheras and Klang are also popular for their Chinese cuisines like Bak Kut Teh, Char Siew Rice and fried noodles. Another common eating places are the Indian muslims restaurants here where you will be able to experience the likes of Indian curry, Roti Canai and many more. Known as Mamak stalls, this is where you can enjoy typically Indian Muslim and Indian authentic cuisine which usually operates until the wee hours of the morning.

Wildlife attractions in Malaysia

Malaysia has one of the oldest and richest wildlife attractions in the world. The natural climate of the country provides an ideal environment where there are many rainforests and wildlife attractions if you are one who likes nature and adventure. From mountain climbing, jungle trekking, caving and such you will find that there are many choices of adventures and attractions to choose from if you are here for these purposes. Take note that not all national parks allow the public to visit as they might be meant for conservation purposes while there are many which are designed for tourists with cabins and cafes available.

There are reportedly more than 8,000 species of plants in Peninsular Malaysia and thousands more in East Malaysia. Among the unique species found in Malaysia include the Rafflesia which is the largest flower in the world while the Tualang is the tallest tropical tree in the world. Apart from vegetation, there are also many types of animals and insects that include the largest cockroach in the world.

You will be able to find a national park in almost every state in Malaysia with the Taman Negara National Park being the largest one here. It is also one of the oldest parks in the world. If you are visiting any one of these national parks, you might be fortunate enough to find or see many species of animals like Tapirs, lizards, bears and many types of monkeys. Apart from that, there are also hundreds of bird species in these places.

Among the many national parks in Malaysia, the ones in East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak are known the most popular ones. This is because Borneo island is very rich with flora and fauna and it is also in Sabah that you will be able to visit the Mount Kinabalu National Park that host Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in the country and in Southeast Asia. This is where you will be able to climb the mountain while enjoying and appreciating the hundreds and thousands of birds, trees, insects and others some which you will not be able to see in the common places like zoos and such. The National Zoo is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur while you can also visit alternative zoos like that in Taiping which is known for its night safari while the Malacca Zoo is also one of the most popular wildlife showcases in the country.

A guide to the Adventure seeking tourist

If you are looking for adventure when travelling in Malaysia, then you have come to the right place. This is because Malaysia has an abundant of choices when it comes to adventure where you can go camping, mountain climbing, rock climbing and many others.

The naturally rich forests and hills around Malaysia meant that there are much to offer if you are up for an adventurous and unforgettable travelling experience here. Perhaps the most obvious choices in Malaysia would be mountain climbing. There are many mountains in around the country that you can choose from where you can either go for the hills which are catered to the beginners or choose those for the advance climbers. Mount Kinabalu sits majestically in Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of East Malaysian state Sabah. This is the highest peak in the country as well as in Southeast Asia where you do not need any special equipments to climb to the top. Basically, all you need is a lot of perseverance and fitness over the countless hours of walking up the mountain where you will be able to enjoy one of the most beautiful sceneries ever.

Gunung Tahan or Mount Tahan is the highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia and climbing this mountain would require you to have camping equipments and such because even if it is lower than Kinabalu, it takes at least 5 days to reach the top.

In Sarawak, you can also go caving at the Mulu and Niah Caves National Parks respectively. The Mulu Caves is known to be one of the largest caves around the world. For those of you who like rock climbing, Batu Caves is one of the most common spots to enjoy this extreme sport. Deep sea divers would be able to travel into the waters along Pulau Sipadan in Sabah as well as through the various islands like Tioman and Perhentian to indulge into this sport.

There are also white water rafting sports provided at most major rivers with strong rapids around the country. In Sabah, one can head out to Kiulu river while the Selangor River at Kuala Kubu Baru is also another renowned challenging rafting spot. If you are into jungle trekking, you will find that most national parks and states offer this service where you can head out into the woods and try to spot the waterfalls before enjoying a cool dip in the waters.

Authentic dishes available in Pahang

No trip to Malaysia is complete without satisfying your taste bud with a wide variety of astounding mouth-watery delights. In fact, eating is the one thing that you must do when you travel to Malaysia.

Excellent food at every corner of every state

You would have no trouble in finding delectable good food throughout the country. Hence, Pahang offers a fusion of Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisines. You would need to familiarize yourself with ‘Moh Makan’ invitation among friends especially when you are in Pahang

Popular dishes of Pahang

The scrumptious Malay dishes in Pahang have been influenced by other cuisines namely Indian, Chinese and Arab delights. Back in the olden days, Indian traders who came to Pahang brought some special spices such as coriander, ginger and cumin. Thus, Malays decided to use the spices to enhance the aroma of traditional Malay food. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the wide array of cuisines available in Pahang such as:

Nasi Lemak
Kebab
Pasembor
Chicken Rice
Rendang
Satay.

ther than local delights, if you are craving for delicious Western cuisines, vacationers can always tempt your palate by dining at restaurants located in hill resorts and coastal.

Western dishes aplenty

Kebab or also commonly known as satay among locals is the one dish you must try! The marinated meat cubes (chiken, lamb and even fish) are threaded on skewers to be barbecued on open flame. Eaten with cucumber, onions and ketupat, the meat is dipped into specially made spicy peanut sauce. Fragrant spices and herbs such as coriander, kaffir lime, pandan, lemon grass and coconuts are used widely and added to dishes to enhance the aroma and bring out the flavour of the cuisines.

Staple food – Rice

Since rice is the staple food for Malaysians, it is prepared meticulously with other ingredients and cooked to perfection. White rice is served with other succulent and delicious dishes such as chicken, fish and meat. The pleasure of enjoying fabulous aromatic white rice with ulam is something you’ll never forget. Other authentic Malay cuisines available in Pahang are Nasi Kebuli and Opor Daging. Nasi Kebuli originated from Kuala Lipis District is a special rice dish while Opor Daging is a dish of beef or lamb eaten together with white rice. The dish is sometimes cooked in rending style. So kick back and enjoy some authentic Malay cuisines, shall we?

Experience an invigorating holidays at National Park(Taman Negara)

Explore the many rare and exotic species of flora and wildlife creatures at the world’s oldest rainforest – National Park (also commonly known as Taman Negara). Stretched over three states – Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan, this is the ideal place for adventurous hikers from around the world.

Hike to the top of Taman Negara

Explore the wilderness and enjoy the nature and beauty of National Park because as you get to the top, you’ll be amazed with the mesmerizing view of the area. Words can’t describe the abundance of flora and fauna found here. More than 10,000 species of living plants and 350 species of most notorious creatures such as tapirs, wild boars, leopards, tigers, elephants, monkeys and mouse deer await you here!

Experience the canopy walk

Reputed as the world’s longest canopy walk, it stretched up to 400 metres long. Hence, as you stroll step by step with your family and friends along the canopy walk, you can share the experience together and even see the wildlife for yourself. Perhaps, for some visitors you’ll find it exhausting to hike the challenging jungle trails and explore mysterious limestone caves but fret not! Because plenty of other activities are offered to keep you company all-day long from camping to swimming, bird watching to fishing, and even paying a visit to Orang Asli Settlement. All you need to do is to head over to Jerantut because the entry point of the park lies right there.

Adventure and education

Well, National Park is highly recommended for those who are looking for an adventurous yet educational trip. Nevertheless, first time visitors should contact travel agent to find out more information about the tour packages available such as:

Taman Negara Tour for students
Taman Negara free & easy
Taman Negara Adventure Sungai Relau
Taman Negara Adventure Kuala Tahan
and Holiday Village Taman Negara.

Consuming Alcohol in Malaysia – Don’t say we never told you!

Alcohol is a common beverages around the world when it comes to festivals and celebrations. In Malaysia, however it might be a slightly tricky situation. This is because, depending on which part of Malaysia you are in, the sale of alcohol beverages varies.

Pricing of alcohol in Malaysia

Compared to other countries, the price of alcohol beverages in Malaysia is slightly higher where you will need to pay around RM8 for a can or mug of beer. This however differs in free tax regions like Langkawi Island, Tioman Island and in the Federal Territory of Labuan.

Where can you buy alcohol beverages

Malaysia’s official religion is Islam and hence it is somewhat not polite to consume alcohol in the midst of Muslims which is why you will find that there are designated areas of entertainment where pubs and discos congregate and those are the places where you can find a lot of outlets that serve alcohol beverages.

You also can usually find beer and alcohol beverages in supermarkets and convenience stores like 7-Eleven although sale of such items to Muslims are banned.

Different laws in different states

As Kelantan is governed by the PAS, an Islamic based party, the sale of alcohol is banned. The ban is also extended to its neighbouring state Terengganu due to their strong religious people there, hence it is very difficult to find such items in those states. However, in tourists oriented states like Penang, Malacca and in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, the sale of alcohol is allowed although you are required to consume them sparingly and be sensitive to the public.

More relaxed practices in East Malaysia

The situation however is very different in the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak where the Tuak and Tapai are commonly consumed. The Tuak is from Sarawak while the latter is from Sabah and they are basically fermented rice wine which are quite high in alcohol content. Tuak and Tapai are considered to be a traditional drink and are served during the Gawai Dayak and Kaamatan festivals of the 2 states. This is naturally the harvest festival for the ethnic groups and are served publicly during such festivals as well as other celebrations like Christmas and New Years’ Day.

Malaysia – A Multi Cultural Land

Malaysia – A Multi Cultural Land

Malaysia is a multiracial country, therefore, the nation’s culture was affected by a large number of different cultures.

Initially, cultures on this land starts from indigenous tribes that lived here, along with the Malays who later moved in. Strong influence exists from the Chinese and Indian culture, dating back to the time when trade began to flourish in the area. Colonial countries such as the Dutch, Portuguese and British also leaved their mark and cultures behind, which further influence the diversities of the cultures of Malaysia.

The major ethnics in Malaysia are the Orang Asli or indigenous peoples, the Malays, Chinese and Indian.

The oldest inhabitants of Malaysia is the indigenous tribes. They account about 5% of the total Malaysian population, and mostly live in East Malaysia of Sabah & Sarawak. In Sarawak, the Dayak, who are either Iban or Bidayuh is the most dominate tribal group. The largest indigenous tribe is the Iban at 600,000 population. Some Iban still live in traditional long houses along the rivers although many have moved to the bigger and modern cities. In Sabah, the largest tribe is the Kadazan. There are about 140,000 of Orang Asli of different ethnic communities living in peninsular Malaysia.

The Malays have the largest populations living in Malaysia. Malays are heavily involved in politics and are included in a grouping known as “bumiputra”. Bahasa Malaysia, the native language of the Malays is also the national language of Malaysia.
All Malays in the country is Muslim.

The Chinese

A paradise for beach-goers

Malaysia offers a great variety of sandy beaches with azure blue water to lure sea lovers and those who are seeking adrenaline-pumping water sports activities.

Beaches around Malaysia

The beach with many coconut palms all over the bay is an ideal spot for family vacation as there are tons of exhilarating water sports pursuits available such as scuba diving, lobster hunting, banana boating, swimming, wind surfing, canoeing and snorkeling. Sit back and enjoy the magical moments of mind-blowing scene of sunrise and sunset. You can never resist diving underwater for the abundance and diversity of virgin coral reefs.

Lanjut Beach, Pahang

One of the featured attractions widely promoted by Pahang state government is Lanjut Beach that is beautifully situated along the southern coast of the state. Reputed as one of the most enchanting unspoilt beach, visitors and travelers need not worry about accommodation because plenty of budget and luxurious hotels and chalets can be found within the area. Renowned for fresh water prawns, this outdoor activity has always been a favourite past time pursuit among locals and foreigners.

Teluk Chempedak, Pahang

Another charming beach ideally located only about five kilometres from Kuantan – Teluk Chempedak is highly recommended for beach lovers. Those who are looking forward for a wonderful weekend to escape the rigors of city life can head over to this beach for there are a couple of luxurious and modern world-class hotels. On top of that, this is also regarded as a marvelous beach for exciting water sports activities such as surfing, jet skiing and surfing. Located nearby is the tranquil and shady Pelindung Beach. However, beachgoers need to walk through the dense Teluk Chempedak Forest Reserve to get to the heavenly beach.

Teluk Tongkan

Adventurous trekkers who are game for an exhilarating experience can stroll to the mini zoo in Taman Teruntum because those who have been there commented that the route is rather challenging and offers some ‘real-jungle’ environment. Since you are around Teluk Chempedak, remember to allocate some time to check out the discrete cape – Teluk Tongkang. The rocky outcrops on both sides offer a serene surrounding for one to escape from the crowded beach.

Chendor Beach

For a real tranquil and serene beach, head down to Chendor Beach right at the border of Terengganu and Pahang. The white sandy beach under swaying palm trees is perfect for families and friends to enjoy a beautiful afternoon on a picnic. The beach is often crowded during the weekend and school holidays because day trippers would spend the day here before heading over to other destinations. The one highlight of the trip to Chendor Beach happens between May and September every year because visitors find it interesting when giant leatherback turtles crawl to the beach quietly when the darkness falls to lay their eggs.

Beserah Village

Renowned as a picturesque and peaceful fishing village, the one must buy product from Beserah is none other than salted fish. Usually, day trippers would stop by right here to purchase traditional crackers such as crispy keropok kering and keropok lekor as well as the well-known dried salted fish. But the next time you are here, try to ask around the location of Beserah Beach. You’ll be surprised to find that the beach is charming and lovely at the same as you can see water buffaloes used to transport fish from the boats to particular processing area. Do you know that Beserah is the only town in Malaysia that is still using buffalo on the beach? Therefore, do not miss out the opportunity to visit the beach. The beach is easily accessible via Kuantan or Kemaman.

Balok Beach

Regarded as a paradise for enthusiastic wind surfers, Balok Beach is somewhat similar to other beaches in Pahang. The beach is particularly crowded during the annual wind surfing regatta. Hence, visitors would notice that the hotels surrounding the lovely beach are lively during that season. The crystal clear water, swaying casuarinas, sounds of bird chirping and the long stretch of white sandy beach is an ideal spot for one to get away from hustle and bustle of city life. Just rest, relax and unwind right here at Balok Beach. And here are some the activities to do when you’re bored – snorkeling, scuba diving, skiing, sailing and swimming. Pahang is indeed a paradise for beach-goers with the abundance of fascinating beaches.

Take the Jungle Railway for a real taste of adventure

Malaysia has one of the most amazing countryside sceneries and landscapes. Its natural wonders are spectacular and very breathtaking.

See the greens on train

One of the most pleasing things you should do when travelling in Malaysia is to see the country on rail. This is where you should take note and be aware of the famed Jungle Railway which is the railway service that cruises along the Kelantan and Pahang states of the Peninsular.
Continue reading “Take the Jungle Railway for a real taste of adventure”

Entering and leaving Malaysia from the north-west checkpoints

The town of Bukit Kayu Hitam is sometimes seen as a sleepy town although it is one of the entry points from the north into Malaysia. Located in the northern state of Kedah, it is also the exit/entry point of the PLUS North-South Expressway.

Northern entry to Thailand

If you are travelling on an express bus to and from Thailand, you will most likely come through this check point. Once you pass through the immigration you will come to Thailand’s Dannok town.

Alternate gateway into Malaysia

There is another northern entry point which is through Padang Besar in Perlis where it is known for its market and shops where you can buy quite a lot of imitation goods coming in from our northern neighbours. Meanwhile, Bukit Kayu Hitam or ‘Black Wood hill’ has a duty-free shopping center which is pretty much all there is to it.

Prior visa application needed

Take note that this entry point is not a visa-on-arrival point so you would need to have an advance visa prior to coming into Malaysia. However, as there is no need for Malaysians to have visas when travelling to Thailand, it is an easy and fast process to go through.
Known officially as the Sadao Immigration Checkpoint, if you are heading to Hat Yai or any other places in Thailand, most express buses will bring you across the border through here. It is a bit challenging to be travelling on foot or on your own though as the complexes are quite far away from each other.

Good influence of Thai culture here

If you are using the Padang Besar checkpoint, then it is a less busy option. Located towards the north in Perlis, the Padang Besar checkpoint is where most people will pass if you are heading towards Songkhla. In Thailand, the town connecting to the checkpoint is also known as Padang Besar so you might hear the locals calling their Thai twin town as ‘Pekan Siam’ which means ‘Siam town’. This town very much known for attracting many Malaysians here who buy items coming in directly from Thailand. To get here, you will need to com from Kangar which is about 35km away. To get to the checkpoint most people will come using the motorcycle taxis which is about RM3 per ride.

Homestay in Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is the state capital of Terengganu and hence there are many homestay choices here. The Teratai Homestay is one choice that you can choose which is affordable and convenient. As it is located within the city centre, it is very easy to get around and packages start from RM60 per night depending on the guest’s preference. Families can choose the RM100 per night choice that comes with 2 queen size beds and air-conditioning.

Nur Kasih Homestay is one of the latest addition to the choices here that offers budget accommodation as well as car rental services. The Homestay Seri Desa is located at Kampung Lorong Masjid which is ideal for group tours. Among the facilities here are 6 bedrooms, 2 living rooms as well as standard facilities like wardrobes, television, water filter and kitchen equipments. Rental starts from RM150 per night for the upper floor while rooms can be rented at RM60 per day.

Hotel and homestay options in Terengganu

Terengganu is an east coastal state which is known for its sandy beaches and resorts. Here one is able to visit and enjoy the local landmarks here where there are many choices of accommodation available. Form the upscale resorts and hotels to the backpacking and homestay options, there are more than enough options for any budget traveler. The state capital is Kuala Terengganu where there are many options to choose from.

Most of the choices are focused in the city centre while there are also many others located in the suburbs and neighbourhood. The surrounding towns like Kuala Besut, Marang, Kemaman and Kerteh too all offer homestay options which are well equipped and affordable. Most of the homestay here come in the form of homes where basic facilities like cooking and living rooms are commonly offered. Some operators provide meals while others also provide value added services like car rental and travel packages too.