Interesting Places To Visit In Malaysia Truly Asia

Why to Holiday in Malaysia

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Wed, 20 May 2009 09:19:00 +0000

Malaysia has continued quickly shooting up as a worldwide tourist destination, thanks to its cosmopolitan, cultural, historical and inherent assets. It can satisfy the force of any visitor, and properties remain on singing paeans right about such a mesmerizing earth when properties return. It has so still to offer, overly the visitors stay on collecting the gifts, that never end. So is not it basic consequently why to retreat in Malaysia?

Cosmopolitan Tourism

Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur is able to fashion for a fulfilling have for a visitor aspiring for cosmopolitan tourism. This sprawling city has all a tourist wishes: intriguing sightseeing, fabulous shopping, rollicking nightlife, gleaming skyscrapers, and multi-cuisine dining. Long history of the city ensures so it has a slew of intriguing real estate to visit. Kuala Lumpur has an array of gleaming malls to satisfy tourists when it comes to shopping.

The city has loads of residences at which you can enjoy understanding shopping too. As for the nightlife, Kuala Lumpur has structures that are vibrant among activities all night. The city has a large amount of of neck-breaking skyscrapers, the queen of that are the Petronas Twin Towers. The city has an array of restaurants submiting tastes according to all portions of the world.

Cultural Enthusiast

Centuries of cultural fusion undergo transfered Malaysia magnetic as a cultural destination. Malaysia has been heard persuaded by different cultures, that much Arab nations, China and India. Chinese opera, Indian dance, and Malay martial arts are popular cultural activities. Unique arts and traditions distinguish Sabah and Sarawak according to the rest of Malaysia.

Conventional art forms of a large amount of cultures are practiced in Malaysia, multiple importantly in the districts of dance and performance art. Popular traditional activities are Bunga Malai (Garland Making), Wayang Kulit (Shadow Play), Bergendang (Drumming), Maggagong (Gong Ensembles), Silat (The Malay Art of Self defense) and Sumpit (Blow Pipe).

Historical Attractions

Monuments notify the story of the times. Petronas Twin Towers symbolize the rapid progress of the nation additonally Sultan Abdul Samad building, a colonial structure, is appreciate for its design. Leaning Clock Tower is the local version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Istana Negara along Jalan Istana is a must-see when in Kuala Lumpur. If you are fond of architecture, a visit to Malaysia can be a fulfilling one. Mosques, churches, temples, statues, towers and palaces are interspersed all throughout the country.

Malaysia as well has the majority of intriguing museums. Muzium Negara persists in the visitors intrigued amidst its keepsakes plus flora and fauna, culture and people, weaponry and the arts. Other well&wshyp;known museums of the earth are Seri Menanti Museum (Negri Sembilan), Sultan Alam Shah Museum (Selangor), Taiping Museum (Perak), State Warrior Museum (Pahang) and the Sabah Museum.

Natural Attractions

Nature has blessed Malaysia investing in so most gems. Unspoilt beaches, azure waters, and cajoling waves are few characteristics of Malaysian islands, famed as tropical paradise. You could easily enjoy a great deal of water sports in Malaysia. Pulau Tioman (Pahang), Pulau Redang (Terengganu) and Pulau Rawa (Johor) are popular structures for scuba diving and snorkelling. Pulau Langkawi is renowned for its mesmerizing beaches.

Apart on these types of islands, Malaysia has a slew of lakes at which you may enjoy fulfilling holidays. For cool vacations, you serves to visit highland resorts. Popular highland resorts are Fraser's Hill, Cameron Highlands, Genting Highlands and Maxwell Hill. You will enjoy bundle sports at Gunung Kinabalu, biggest hit top in Southeast Asia, as immensely as Gunung Tahan (Pahang), Gunung Ledang (Johor), Gunung Mulu (Sarawak) and Gunung Jerai (Kedah). Exploring caves in these types of mountains are able to find you a sense of adventure.

Tuaran Crocodile Farm ( Sabah Malaysia )

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 04:30:00 +0000

The Tuaran Crocodile Farm is by far the largest croc farm in Sabah, it is estimated that there are about 1,000 crocodiles being kept there. Here, visitors may experience the adventures of these crocodiles and watch exciting crocodile shows which are shown daily.

The crocodile farm is situated at Kg. Lok Batik, Jalan Sulaman Highway Tuaran and is open daily from 8.30a.m to 5.30p.m.

Activities & Tariffs
Entrance fees for Malaysian visitors are RM10 for adults and RM5 for children (4 to 12 years old). Foreign visitors (non-Malaysians) are charged RM15 for adults and RM10 for children (4 to 12 years old).

Visitors can observe are the crocodile feeding sessions which are scheduled at 9a.m, 10.30a.m, 12 noon, 12.45p.m, 1.30p.m, 2.15p.m, 4.15p.m, and 4.45p.m daily.

Other than that, crocodile shows are held at 11a.m and 3p.m Monday to Saturday, and 11a.m, 1p.m and 3p.m on Sundays and public holidays.

Visitors are also welcomed to watch cultural shows at 11.30a.m and 3.30p.m Monday to Saturday, and 11.30a.m, 1.30p.m and 3.30p.m on Sunday and public holidays.

Getting There
To get there, visitors can take a bus to Tuaran from Kota Kinabalu; journey from Kota Kinabalu to Tuaran takes about 40 minutes.

From Tuaran, visitors need to take another bus to Kg. Laya-Laya. Bus fare from Kota Kinabalu to Tuaran cost RM4.00, while bus fare from Tuaran to Kg. Laya-Laya is RM1.50.

Further Information:
Kg Lok Batik, Jalan Sulaman Highway
P.O.BOX 65,
89208 Tuaran
Tel: 088 793 376/793 377
Fax:088 793623

Privacy Policy

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 10:42:00 +0000

Update 13 May 2009

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At mefranz.blogspot.com, we recognize that privacy of your personal information is important. Here is information on what types of personal information we receive and collect when you use visit mefranz.blogspot.com, and how we safeguard your information. We never sell your personal information to third parties.

The privacy of our visitors to mefranz.blogspot.com is important to us.

At mefranz.blogspot.com, we recognize that privacy of your personal information is important. Here is information on what types of personal information we receive and collect when you use visit mefranz.blogspot.com, and how we safeguard your information. We never sell your personal information to third parties.

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Langkawi, Malaysia Factsheet

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 13:39:00 +0000

LOCATION

Almost 20 mls off the coast of Malaysia's mainland peninsula and the port of Kuala Perlis in the extreme NW of the country. A similar distance from S Thailand on the edge of its territorial waters. Telephone IDD code from UK: 4 Position: The largest and most densely populated of a 104-island archipelago.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Langkawi is a tropical island with a largely unspoilt heartland characterised by virgin jungle, mangrove swamps, rocky outcrops and cascading waterfalls. Originally an area of fishing, coconut and rubber plantations, the island was awarded duty-free status in 1987.

This successfully attracted various businesses and burgeoning international tourism, facilitated by the construction of a sizeable airport on the W coast capable of handling jets. On the SE corner lies the capital, Kuah, a small predominantly low-rise unsophisticated town boasting a couple of small shopping centres, a handful of hotels and a waterfront dominated by the island's only ferry terminal.

MARKET

For those seeking unspoilt, often deserted beaches and extensive water sports, who are content with a relatively (thus far) unsophisticated infrastructure.

ACCOMMODATION

Predominantly first-class self-contained resort-style complexes beside their own private, or at least secluded, beaches dotted all round the coast. Several simpler hotels and hostels for the budget-conscious and less affluent backpackers. Many of the latter camp on the numerous public beaches.

BEACHES

Some of the world's most idyllic, secluded and photogenic stretches of soft white sand fringed by tall palms and virgin jungle.

Many of the best bays are already occupied and maintained by the major resort-style properties. Water sports is one of the principal attractions with windsurfing, water-skiing, sailing, catamarans and snorkelling the most popular pursuits. NB: some beaches have banned motorised fun to protect coral reefs.

SHOPPING

Duty-free status means that Kuah and some hotel emporia can offer significantly cheaper designer fashions, perfumes and electronic goods. Choice is not particularly wide, but visitors do not generally come here to bargain hunt.

Traditional batiks, pewter and local jewellery are the normal souvenirs.

ENTERTAINMENT

Daytime: centred on the individual hotels for beach relaxation or an energetic array of water sports and leisure activities. See excursions.

NIGHT LIFE

Generally low-key and confined to the hotel complexes, some of which provide regular live music and unsophisticated discos.

EATING OUT

Not a great deal of sophistication outside the hotels. Kuah has a couple of international fast-food chains and a selection of very affordable Chinese, Malay, Indian and Thai restaurants with seafood in abundance.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

There is no island-wide bus service. Taxis and hotel minibuses provide affordable transportation and many offer reasonable half- or full-day hire charged by the hour for local excursions.

Regular ferries and hydrofoils to Kuala Perlis on the mainland (approx 1 hour) and Penang (approx 2 hours). Daily flights to the capital, Kuala Lumpur (1 hour).

LOCAL EXECURSION

Sea fishing; jungle trekking; waterfalls; pewter factories and plantation tours. Crocodile farm. Numerous boat charters for round-island tours and island hopping.

Source : GoArticles.com

Borneo Adventure Vacation - Conquering Mount Kinabalu Via The Mesilau Summit Trail

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 09:40:00 +0000

By: Rich Adz

If you are visiting Borneo for an adventure vacation, then conquering the mystical Mount Kinabalu is not really an option - it is 'the' priority.

The mystical Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in South East Asia, is strategically located at the Kinabalu National Park, a designated World Heritage Site. Kinabalu National Park is just about two hours drive from the city of Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo.

Mount Kinabalu, which stood at around 4,095 meters above sea level, is an icon for Sabah as well as for Malaysia tourism. Therefore, it is of no surprise that every year, thousands flocked to climb or rather, trek up the mountain. Although the traditional route up Mount Kinabalu is via the Kinabalu Summit Trail at Kinabalu National Park, there is an alternative route on the other side of Mount Kinabalu called the Mesilau Summit Trail, a newer and more challenging route. This trail is definitely one for those who are more adventurous to consider seriously.

The Mesilau Summit Trail at the Mesilau Nature Park on the Mesilau plateau is about 30 minutes by road away from Kinabalu National Park or about 108 km from Kota Kinabalu.

It is advisable to stay a night at Mesilau before starting your ascent up Mount Kinabalu as the journey from Kota Kinabalu will likely to leave you rather exhausted. Take a rest and acclimatize with the higher altitude at the eco-friendly Mesilau Nature Resort, which is nestled amongst the trees at the foot of the mountain at about 2,000 metres above sea level within the Park. The resort has a total of 22 lodges and 96 resthouse beds.

As for the climb up to Mount Kinabalu, the Mesilau Summit Trail is definitely more rugged, about 1.5km further than the trail from Timpohon Gate at Kinabalu National Park. But it offers more opportunities for viewing flora and fauna. The Mesilau route is still relatively new, but some shelters and toilets have been built along the trail for the convenience of trekkers. The route is also less crowded than the old summit trail. You won't bank into many mountain climbers on the way up.

The first ascent of the Mesilau Trail does involve a climb up, then a drop into the Mesilau valley, and then another ascent to regain the lost height. You will get to see both the Kinabalu and Mesilau routes at higher ground. The trail is also more "jungle" than the traditional Kinabalu Summit Trail. When trekking uphill, it is fortunate that the trail is well laid with steps cut into the earth and thus, making walking easy.

Layang-layang (Place of Swallows) is where the Mesilau Trail meets the Kinabalu Summit Trail at 2,740m. From there onwards, you will notice that the vegetation zone is like a forest of bent and twisted silvery-grey trunks with peeling bark.

A short hike after the sixth shelter, you will reach the mid-summit (i.e., Laban Rata). Conservatively, it should take a normal fit person an average 6-7 hours to reach Laban Rata, where you will be required to stay a night at Laban Rata Resthouse or at other nearby accommodations (i.e., Mountain Huts and VIP Lodge). From there, the second and more grueling ascent will follow the traditional route all the way to the summit (i.e., Low's Peak), which will start early morning the next day at around 2 am to 3 am

The ascent should normally take a few hours but it is much more challenging than the initial ascent as the trail gets more tiring with each step up the slope as the air gets thinner and thinner. On top of this, you have to battle the freezing cold temperature (sometimes below zero degrees Celsius). If its rains and windy, it will be doubly challenging.

But once you get to the summit and catch the truly magnificent glimpse of the sunrise, you would have forgotten the tough climb. You will feel on top of the world looking down at the tiny villages and small islands off the coast of Kota Kinabalu.

For those who had climbed Mount Kinabalu before via the Kinabalu Summit Trail or for those who are searching for a more challenging trek, the Mesilau Summit Trail definitely offers a fuller Mount Kinabalu climbing and adventure vacation experience. To quote an avid climber: "You have not truly conquered Mount Kinabalu if you have not conquer it from both sides of the mountain".

Rasa Ria Resort >> Tuaran Sabah

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:33:00 +0000

The name Shangri-La has long been synonymous with quality and excellence and the Coffee Terrace at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort in Tuaran is a true reflection of this. Newly-refurbished, the Coffee Terrace offers a wonderful array of Asian and Western cuisine, which can be enjoyed both buffet-style and a la carte. As you step into the

restaurant, you are greeted warmly by the floor staff who will direct you to your table of choice, be it in the cozy indoor area or in the outdoor terrace. The restaurant is tastefully furnished and careful detail is taken into consideration, right down to the exclusively-designed plates. There’s plenty to enjoy on the menu but the must-tries include Malaysian favorites, namely the beef rendang and nasi

goreng istimewa (special fried rice). The buffets (both breakfast and dinner) are a grand affair. Diners can enjoy a fantastic selection of Japanese, Italian, Asian and Western fare, including fresh seafood. Unlike most other buffet spreads, the Coffee Terrace lays out smaller portions of each dish and regularly refills to ensure freshness. There

are also several cooking stations where diners can have their fried noodles or pasta prepared on the spot. But it’s the dessert station that attracts most attention with its sweet delights, from a variety of cakes to a chocolate fountain! For a quality meal, excellent service and great dining atmosphere, nothing beats the Coffee Terrace at Shangri-La’s

Rasa Ria Resort. Buffet breakfast is from 6:30am to 10:30am, a la

carte lunch from 11:00am to 2:00pm, a la carte snacks from 2:30pm to 5:30pm and dinner (both a la carte and buffet) from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. The Coffee Terrace is open daily.

Articles Sources : http://www.newsabahtimes.com.my

Malaysia Truly Asia

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 12:30:00 +0000

Malaysia

– Truly Asia. Welcome to one of Southeast Asia's most culturally diverse nations. This is a country with paradise islands, hillside retreats, tropical rainforests and cosmopolitan cities – truly a landscape that defies imagination.

Explore this amazing destination with our easy to use Hotel and Information Guide here. Choose from a wide variety of hotels and resorts catering to every budget across Malaysia, selected by our team of dedicated professionals bring you the best in accommodation.

Don’t miss out on our top recommendations, impressive package deals, exquisite special offers and much more!!

Homestay

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 06:35:00 +0000

Homestay is where you get to stay with a selected family from a different background and culture as your foster family for duration of time. During the period, you will get to learn their way of life especially the socioeconomic life.

In Sabah, homestay program is a new industry. We have been given acknowledgment and full support from the tourism ministry to develop this homestay program to be one of the main attractions in Sabah.

The direction we are leading you are our Homestay destination - homes that are situated in undisturbed, natural, breathtaking and scenic surroundings, some places that are even located in the rural area of Borneo, Sabah. Situated far from the busy and hectic life of the city, at our homes you will be experiencing the unique yet peace-of-mind traditional lifestyle of the native's village folks of Sabah. That's why there is the "social immersion into the lifestyle of the native of Sabah, at nature's best".

Not only that, our homestay destinations are in the proximity icons of world class tourism sites; which means not only you will get an experience staying with the native people of Sabah but also explore the wonders of nature's gifts.

Kundasang War Memorial

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 06:07:00 +0000

The Kundasang War Memorial was established as a tribute to the brave 2,428 Australians and British POWs who died in Sandakan, Ranau or on the infamous Sandakan Death Marches. The beautiful memorial was initiated by Major G.S ‘Toby’ Carter, a New Zealander who served in the Royal Australian Engineers and organized native resistance in the Kelabit Highlands of Sarawak during the War. He was so moved by the atrocities of the Death March that he passionately lobbied for the construction of the memorial. His efforts paid off in 1962 when the Government approved the National Park Bill and the establishment of the Kundasang War Memorial. However, over the years, the memorial suffered a series of vandalism and maintenance was poor. It underwent a major restoration process in the late 2004.

Designed by resident architect, J.C. Robinson, the Kundasang War Memorial is reminiscent of a fort, built on a sloping hill. As you climb up the cobbled steps, visitors usually start their visit with a quick video presentation at the open air sitting area to give them a better understanding of the Sandakan Death March. The highlight of the Memorial is none other than its four beautiful Gardens, specially built to represent the homelands of those who died in the Death Marches and the locals who risked their lives to help the POWs. The Australian Garden is truly beautiful, with its lush green lawn and in its centre is a map of Australia made of smooth white pebbles. At its far end stands the Memorial plaque. The English Garden truly reminds you of a sunny and bright summer’s day! Like a traditional English garden, it is filled with rose bushes, leaving a light rosy scent lingering in the air. The Borneo Garden showcases a treasure of orchids, endemic to Borneo. A special honour is given to the plant that served as staple food during the War – the tapioca. For a quiet moment, step into the Contemplation Garden and Pool. This is where most services and prayers are held in remembrance of the fallen who never returned home. A plaque is placed here with the inscription of the words sung by a Death March survivor: I’m dreaming of Australia, The land we left behind. Dreaming of the loved ones, We could always bear in mind Although its only fancy, Our hearts within us year. But we’ll make up for lost moments When to Australia we return. There’s be sailing on the harbour, The Showboat our first choice. Or maybe we’d be dancing Listening to our sweetheart’s voice. Although it’s only fancy, Our hearts within us yearn. Gee we’ll make up for lost moments When to Aussie we return.

help the POWs. The Australian Garden is truly beautiful, with its lush green lawn and in its centre is a map of Australia made of smooth white pebbles. At its far end stands the Memorial plaque. The English Garden truly reminds you of a sunny and bright summer’s day! Like a traditional English garden, it is filled with rose bushes, leaving

a light rosy scent lingering in the air. The Borneo Garden showcases a treasure of orchids, endemic to Borneo. A special honour is given to the plant that served as staple food during the War – the tapioca. For a quiet moment, step into the Contemplation Garden and Pool. This is

where most services and prayers are held in remembrance of the fallen who never returned home. A plaque is placed here with the inscription of the words sung by a Death March survivor:

I’m dreaming of Australia, The land we left behind. Dreaming of the loved ones, We could always bear in mind Although its only fancy, Our hearts within us year. But we’ll make up for lost moments When to Australia we return. There’s be sailing on the harbour, The Showboat our first choice. Or maybe we’d be dancing Listening to our sweetheart’s voice. Although it’s only fancy, Our hearts within us yearn. Gee we’ll make up for lost moments When to Aussie we return.

Articles Source : NewSabahTimes/Nelson Short

Mabul Diving

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 10:21:00 +0000

Located some 25 minutes north of Sipadan Island, this island offers a different world of diving opportunities from most other diving locations. Here is a macro diving paradise where you will be able to find rare macroworld inhabitants hard to find at other dive sites.

Among the international diving community, the island's reputation as one of the world's best muck diving site is no secret. Muck diving in Mabul, a term used to describe limited visibility dives at shallow sites with usually sandy bottoms, is one of diving's new rages. It focuses on encounters with unusual little critters popularly known as macro-life. Muck diving is a world away from steep wall and coral reefs, with their almost limitless visibility and easy-to-spot reef and pelagic life.

In other words, muck diving offers you the opportunity to flirt with the more bizarre and unusual life marine life to be found. Needless to say, Mabul diving gives macro photographers some great opportunities to capture some extremely rare ecological species which have carved a niche for themselves in the underwater lworld around here. Look out for species like multicoloured nudibranches, devil scorpionfish, stonefish, mantis shrimps, mandarin fish, ribbon eels, snake eels, and crocodile fish, all of which make these sites their home.

Crocker Range

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 06:47:00 +0000

Crocker Range, the longest mountain chain in Sabah, stretches from Sorinsim, in the state’s northern district of Penampang, south to Maligan, in the Tenom district. Rising to an average height of about 5,000 ft, it effectively separates Sabah‘s west coast from the interior villages. Crocker Range Park, covering about 139,919 hectares and extending from Penampang district to Tenom, was gazette in 1984. The Park Headquarters are situated in Keningau district, on the Kimanis–Keningau highway, with sub-stations in Penampang, Tambunan, Papar and Tenom. The Salt Trail was originally created by the natives of Sabah’s interior who, for 100 years, walked along it to carry their jungle products across the Crocker Range to the coastal Penampang villages, where they engaged in barter trade for salt. Several salt routes were established, but the one most frequently used, linking Tikolod in Tambunan to Inobong in Penampang, is that now known as the Crocker Range.

SALT ROUTE

In 2003/4, Sabah Parks officially created the Salt Route constructing two Crocker Range Park substations, one in Tikolod and another in Inobong, to facilitate Sabah tour operators wishing to extend their range of adventure tourism products. As the track traverses thick primary forest and incorporates many river crossings, it is compulsory for those wishing to trek along this historic route to engage the services of a park guide, obtain the necessary permits and insurance, and pay conservation fees. The Salt Trail can be walked in either direction, between Tikolod sub-station in Tambunan and Inobong

sub-station in Penampang, a distance of about 45 kilometers. The ideal time frame for this trek, which allows trekkers to enjoy the scenery, culture and natural beauty along the way, is a total package of 5 days and 4 nights, with overnight stays at Terian, Buayan, Kionab and Melungung. The area between Melungung to Kionob is thick primary forest, while the sector from Kionob to Buayan passes across numerous large rivers, including the Papar and Kionob. From Buayan to Terian, and onward to Inobong, the range is steep and densely forested. For adventurers who wish to embark upon something completely different, the Crocker Range Salt Trail is an unforgettable experience. For more information, visit www. tykadventures.com.

Article Source: NewSabahTimes

Penang, Pearl Of The East!

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 14:01:00 +0000

Here, you'll find everything you need to know about Penang as a travel destination.

The exciting island of Penang, is located just off the west coast of Malaysia. The island of Penang, with its sandy white beaches and beautiful sea shores have always made Penang a top tourist destination in Malaysia. Penang is an island with around three million people. Penang oh-so-effortlessly combines a charming village vibe with a cosmopolitan edge, Malaysian style. We traveled to Butterworth where we transferred to a ferry for a short ride to Penang, a large island off of Malaysia. The island is connected to the mainland by the Penang bridge (one of the worlds longest). Today, the coastal Malaysian island of Penang is as industrial as it is colonial. This came to be reflected in the form of an active freedom movement in the island of Penang.

George Town, which is Penang's capital is located at the north-eastern tip of the island. Or if you prefer to get away from it all, take a trip to Penang Hill and enjoy a panoramic view of the island. Somewhere near the head lies a cluster of good beaches that lends Penang the euphemism of a resort island. Penang is as oriental as the Chinese coolies and merchants who settled on the island in increasing numbers.

The real Penangites love the food so much, that they have a warm meal in the morning at the hawker stalls. More countries should take a lesson from the people of Penang.

Hotel

There are many excellent hotels for tourists on Penang island. After all, Penang is a very famous tourist destination. Check out the Hotel Channel website, which presents a quick guide to top hotel choices in the Penang area that can be booked online. And now with priceline, staying comfortably at your favourite Penang hotel is a simple mouse-click away.

Articles : Goarticles.com

Guide To Borneo

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 06:26:00 +0000

Borneo; a land of adventure in vast rainforests, beautiful valleys, sun-kissed islands, raging rivers and towering mountains. Around the world, Borneo has become renowned as a destination for eco-tourism and scientific research due to its rich diversity of wildlife, flora and geological formations. Borneo has also been the subject of countless documentaries and travel videos. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Borneo today!

Sabah has an astounding amount of beautiful islands off its coastlines on both its eastern and western regions. This is why Sabah is regularly sought after by divers as the seas are abundant in coral reefs and marine life. The islands also make a fantastic gateway for those who want an exciting vacation on the beach.

The ecological richness of Sabah has given birth to a whole host of nature-based attractions. Climb the highest mountain in South East Asia, Kinabalu, or play with the gentle Orang-Utan primates in Sepilok. It’s all here in Sabah!

Sabah, at the North Eastern part of Borneo, is rich not only with magical islands, but deep tracts of virgin rainforest. What is believed to be the highest mountain in South East Asia resides in Sabah, the Kinabalu Mountain. In addition, the national parks in Sabah are rich in plants, flowers and wildlife of many different kinds.

Maliau Basin.

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 09:18:00 +0000

Area: 588.4sq kmLocated in the South central part of the Malaysian State of Sabah The Maliau Basin contains an unusual assemblage of 12 forest types, comprising mainly of lower montane forest dominated by majestic Agathis trees, rare montane heath forest and lowland and hill dipterocarp forestThe highlight of the adventure is to trek to the majestic 7 tiers Maliau FallsPermission to enter must obtain in advance from Yayasan Sabah. It must remember that Maliau Basin is a remote, rugged and isolated area with limited access, communication and safety facilities

Activities: Jungle trekkingBird watching Night drive to spot wildlifeWaterfall swimming and recreation Note: Basic accommodation is campground. Water and bathing facilities are nearby streams and rivers and electricity is not available.

Getting There: The Maliau Basin Conservation Area can be reached by road either via Tawau or KeningauThe journey is on four wheel drive depending on weather conditions is essential as most of the journey is on logging roads to reach at the Maliau Basin Security GateDuration : 5 hours from Tawau to Security Gate of Maliau Basin Conservation5 hours from Keningau to Security Gate of Maliau Basin ConservationDistance : 190 Km from Tawau to Security Gate of Maliau Basin Conservation Pre-arrange with Borneo Nature Tours S/B .

Malaysia My Second Home

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 07:17:00 +0000

To know Malaysia is to love

Malaysia

. Many would agree that Malaysia is the perfect combination of comforts and indulgences. Great weather, amazing food, warm people, low cost of living coupled with high standard of living, state-of-the-art infrastructure, rich culture and a charming history make it a place easy to call home. Countless people have come to Malaysia and fallen in love with it, coming back repeatedly or even making plans to retire here. The Malaysian Government recognizes this and has set up a programme to make it easier for expatriates to retire here. The Malaysia My Second Home Programme allows foreigners to stay in the country indefinitely on a social visit pass with a multiple entry visa.

There is a large expatriate community living in Malaysia. Like Malaysians, they enjoy an active social life, being able to easily indulge in a huge range of activities, from fine dining to sailing. Malaysia has one of the highest standards of living in the region where luxuries are so affordable that it is easy to enjoy the good life here. Cost of living is one of the lowest in Asia and will remain so for a very long time. This is achieved through the Government’s efficient monitoring of the economy in ensuring that inflation is kept low at all times and thereby also the prices of goods and services.

This strong economy has secured a comprehensive infrastructure. The whole country is very well connected with up-to-date, modern road, rail, air, and sea transportation systems. Public transport by buses, taxis, trains and planes are comfortable, efficient and relatively low in cost. The healthcare system is also excellent, drawing many short-term visitors from around the world. The country has a very efficient healthcare system where medical services are provided at nominal cost. Private doctors, clinics and also hospitals of international standards are easily available throughout the country at a very reasonable cost.

A healthy economy, good infrastructure and luxury amenities aren’t the only draw; Malaysia is also a pluralistic society where people practise their own way of life in peace and harmony. Freedom is one of the key reasons many find Malaysia attractive. It is so easy to live the calm life here, where people respect each other’s differences. Malaysians in general are very warm and friendly, always open to learning about other cultures. Although Islam is the national religion, there is a sizable population of Christians, Buddhists and Hindus here, with ample places of worship dotting the entire country.

The weather is pleasant, warm and balmy with moderate rain throughout the year. There are also highland residential areas and resorts with permanent spring-like weather throughout the country. See it to believe it, an ideal place to call home and a government programme to make your dream a reality. To find a home away from home, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.

Guide To Kuala Lumpur

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 12:38:00 +0000

Malaysia

's capital city, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore are very similar places, in terms of the booming economy and skyscrapers dominating the city area, but there are a few places still worth a visit here.

Petronas Twin Towers
First and foremost is the Petronas Twin Towers, which was once the tallest building in the world, until Taiwan came up with their own 1O1, and now Dubai also in the picture with their still-under-construction tower building. Here, long queues are always forming from 8.30am onwards for the free passes up the tower viewing gallery. But be warned that they would only issue around 800 free passes per day for the guided tour, so make sure to reach there early. The guided tour will take visitors all the way up to the sky bridge on the 41st floor.

I was there early queuing in the morning but the timing for my guided tour was scheduled in the afternoon due to the high demand for the free passes. So a good way would be to shop at the mega Suria KLCC shopping mall just next to it while waiting for your scheduled timing up the tower. You can pay a visit to the Petrosains over there, a discovery centre about petroleum manufacturing. At Petrosains, visitors will start with a ride in the dark which covers details on oil manufacture and the science of it.

At a dizzying height of 458 meters, Petronas Twin Towers, a pair of 88-storey buildings, is the best place to take in the view of Kuala Lumpur. There is also the Philharmonic Theater, which surrounds one with wonderful music from the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra.

Menara Kuala Lumpur
Another icon representative of KL is the Kuala Lumpur TowerTwin Tower and other magnificent buildings nearby. There's also a very cosy, revolving restaurant at the top of the tower, offering excellent buffet and great service for a reasonable price. Live music, excellent food, splendid views of the city, this is the place to be in. You might even be able to see Genting Highlands on a fine day! (Menara Kuala Lumpur). Located on a hill called Bukit Nanas, this tower has an observatory platform which is easily accessible by high speed lifts. Taking the lifts up clocks less than a minute, and the view from the observatory tower is spectacular. You can get a bird's eye view of the

Sunway Lagoon
Sunway Lagoon is probably one the best integrated resorts in Malaysia. Within the holiday resort itself is a shopping complex with over 300 shops, an amazingly large lagoon, an Extreme park, Zoo, archery range, bowling alley and a water theme park. Alongside the shopping mall and the resort is a first-class hotel. Several restaurants offer excellent cuisine as well. It's self sufficient, and indeed a well-worth trip to make.

Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque
In Shah Alam (about 45 minutes from KL) lies one of the largest mosques in South-east Asia, the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque (In Malay: Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz). This impressive building is often nicknamed the "Blue Mosque", for its blue aluminum dome covered with verses from the Quran. It is huge and magnificent, and surrounded by the great lake of Shah Alam in the center of Shah Alam town. It incorporates modern architectural style with Malay architecture in its design.

Batu Caves
About 13 km north of KL is the Batu Caves, a place of worship for the Hindus. Large and imposing, it consists of three main caves and a number of smaller ones. The caves are made of limestone and discovered in 1892. You've got to climb up a long fairly steep flight of stairs to enter the caves. A comfortable pair of shoes will work wonders. The surreal carvings and paintings on the walls of the caves will impart a sense of spiritual feel to all who enters.

Merdeka Square
Back to KL city centre, the Merdeka Square houses the tallest flagpole and has an ancient fountain. It is always crowded with tourists and a visit at night would be much cooler. The Merdeka Square is between the majestic Court House and the Selangor Club. The Central Market and Chinatown are also a mere 10 minutes walk away. Chinatown, also known as Petaling Street is one of Kuala Lumpur's most popular tourist destinations. In the evenings, a beehive of stalls comes alive on the streets.

Central Market and Chinatown
You can easily find a large variety of food ranging from roadside stalls to restaurants in Chinatown, offering plentiful choices from dumpling noodles, claypot chicken rice, bbq chicken wing, seafood to steamboat and more. Though it might get a little difficult to move around due to the crowds, the historical shop houses add to the ambience. This is also the place to get cheap t-shirts, souvenirs and almost any other things, but prices haven risen considerably in recent years due to the tourism effect. Bargaining is highly recommended.

Hotels are considered cheap in this modern city, and good hotel deals can be found almost any time of the year. A holiday trip to this city can be a wonderful experience, not mentioning easy on the pockets.

Articles : Tourism Malaysia

The Land's end of Borneo

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 08:26:00 +0000

Standing on the majestic cliffs of Tanjung Simpang Mengayau gives visitors a feeling of being at the edge of the world.

As the sun sets over the horizon at this northwestern tip of Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, visitors are enchanted by the glittering turquoise sea and the sky’s tinges of red and gold. "Breathtaking and awe inspiring" are apt words to describe the feeling when one stands on the majestic cliffs at Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, dubbed the "land’s end of Borneo."

"When one stands on the cliff and looks out to the open sea, it is like standing on the edge of a world, looking at mother nature’s greatness and the scene is simply awesome," an adventure seeker once wrote in a travel magazine.

Visitors to Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, located some 170 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu, will agree.

Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, a 30-minute drive from Kudat, is among the must-see spots that exude breathtaking panoramic vistas for tourists.

The meeting point of Laut Sulu and South China Sea, it is called Tanjung Sampang Magazo in the Rungus dialect, meaning "a junction where a battle took place."

Rungus folklore tells of a story where warriors made a stand against invading pirates, hence the name of this headland.

According to historians, Spanish seafarer Ferdinand Magellan, on his way to circumnavigate the globe, had stopped there for 42 days for repairs to his ships. Tanjung Simpang Mengayau is indeed among Sabah’s many world-renowned natural wonders with its crystal-clear seas, magnificent beaches, islands, coral reefs as well as its lush forests, wetlands and majestic mountains,

Kudat district has some of Sabah’s finest beaches.

In Kudat, Kampung Bavanggazo is known for its Rungus longhouses. Kampung Sumangkap is a gong-making village while honeybees are synonymous with Kampung Gombizau.

Kudat is also the home of the Rungus, where many still live in longhouses.

Kudat is also a seafood paradise.

Facilities:

There is a cafe, souvenir shop and washrooms.

Admission is free.

Getting there (from Kota Kinabalu)

You can go by taxi, self-drive or with a tour agent. Four-wheel drives and saloon cars with permits are stationed near the Indian Restaurant opposite the Health Clinic in Kampung Air. Four-wheel drives can take between 7-8 passengers at RM20.00 - RM25.00 per pax return, while saloon cars take up to 4 passengers and charge RM240.00 for a return trip to Simpang Mengayau. Check with the Car Rental services for their charges.

About Malaysia

noreply@blogger.com (Mefranz) — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 13:20:00 +0000

Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socializing. As a people, Malaysians are very laid back, warm and friendly.

Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts to the country, 11 states in the peninsula of Malaysia and two states on the northern part of Borneo. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.

One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs.

For the perfect holiday full of surprises, eclectic cultures and natural wonders, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.