A smart phone is a device that everyone considers helpful, and even unavoidable on our daily routines. Thanks to the most accommodating travel mobile apps, you can find that these apps provide: a detailed overview of tourist sites, handy city maps, awesome travel guides, and so much more! You can actually explore the world from the comfort of your armchair, and forget about the pre-travelling hassle or extra expenses.

Apps that Improve Your Travel Experience

1. Weather + Free

With this app, you no longer have to spend your holiday wondering what the weather will be like in your future destination! Weather +Free mobile app can give you a true meteorological picture accompanied by; exact temperatures, the local time, humidity and other useful parameters. If you’re climbing up to the Mont Everest or sunbathing on Thai beaches, this app is the way to go. Apart from being completely free, this app provides an excellent overview of current weather situations.

Image: http://cdn.devicemag.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/weather+free-iphone-app.jpg

2. Kayak

Experienced travellers know that searching for hotel and flights can sometimes turn into a nightmare. If you’re dealing with a limited budget, this could make the situation very difficult. An innovative mobile app, called Kayak, offers an opportunity to look for flights, hotels, compared car transport prices, and where you’ll get the best options for your budget. This app is kind of your personal travel-organizing manager. Since it tracks flights for you, delivers notifications about changes, and keeps money in your pocket, this app could be exactly what you need.

Image: http://blog.mobpartner.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/kayak-iphone.png

3. Uber

Uber has cool features that include: very reliable itineraries, detailed transportation maps, and city plans. This smart phone application is an unavoidable traveling tool for all those who adore exploring new areas. If you are visiting a well-populated city, such as Kuala Lumpur, it may be pretty troublesome to find a decent taxi. Fortunately, you can sign up with Uber Malaysia to get affordable and reliable transportation.

Image: http://core0.staticworld.net/images/article/2014/07/uber_app-100356741-large.jpg

4. Trippeo

The total amount of money you spend on your holiday, or a business trip, can often make the difference between a great and “it could have been better” traveling experience. Trippeo could help you elevate your travels. Trippeo, a handy expense- tracking mobile software, can assist you with your travels and expense management. This smart, user friendly, and accurate app notes all of your credit card transactions that occurred during your vacation. The app also helps with your business journey, and allows detailed monitoring of your total trip costs.

Image: https://blog.trippeo.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/mileage-tracking.jpg

5. Localeur

Based on trustworthy recommendations of locals, Localeur is the best app that is specially designed to guide tourists through the best sites/ places within the particular area. This app is made by locals, who are greatly familiar with their areas, and it offers a comprehensive base of truly attractive destinations that you can search according to your preferences.

Image: http://s1.ibtimes.com/sites/www.ibtimes.com/files/styles/v2_article_large/public/2015/06/23/localeur.jpg

6. Trover

If you are someone who likes ‘word of mouth’ recommendations, then you should consider installing Trover on your smart phones. This app offers a surplus of great destination reviews, and recommendations shared by travellers. Trover allows users to take and upload photos from their current destination, express impressions of these areas, and their personal recommendations. You can also share any new travels you come across, and follow other user’s experiences as well.

Image: http://www.thewellist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/best-travel-app-002.png

One of the greatest advantages of the modern era is that every area of life is facilitated with technology. Nowadays, you can plan your entire traveling adventure with just a few taps of the phone.

Published originally at Tips - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Make Your Phone Your Best Travel Guide!

A local’s guide to a weekend in KL’s endless summer

Kuala Lumpur is often regarded as a popular destination hub for tourists from all over the world due to its unique cultural diversity. But I’m sure you are already aware of Kuala Lumpur’s popular tourist hotspots such as the Petronas Twin Towers, Dataran Merdeka and Petaling Street. Instead, I’d like to share with you a guide to Kuala Lumpur’s underrated and honest destinations from a local’s perspective. If you’re looking to avoid tourist traps and instead, truly understand what it is like to be Malaysian, read some of our recommendations below:

1) Masjid Negara on Jalan Perdana

We often associate Mosques, Churches, Temples and other places of worships with a sense of conformity towards their historical and cultural origin. However, the Masjid Negara, or the National Mosque of Malaysia is uniquely modernistic. This architectural staple takes Islamic geometric latticework to the next level, reflecting pools and shimmering fountains that surround the main structure. Come appropriately dressed and be in awe of the intricate Koran verses juxtaposed with French decorative chandeliers adorning its Grand Hall.

2) Street Art along the Klang River Banks

On your way to Central Market, by the ‘Pasar Seni’ LRT train station; stop to appreciate the graffiti that stretches along the Klang river banks. Graffiti in KL is a renegade art form. Bridge arches and neglected walls are tattooed images that resonate current societal and political issues, telling the tale of KLs subculture from the perspective of freethinking locals. Call it a form of self expression or a movement to reclaim public space – this visual mischief unfortunately has never sat well with authorities. But walk around the Klang river by Pasar Seni and Masjid Jamek and you’ll find honest street art that gives KL character and voice.

3) KL’s Brickfields (Little India)

Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of numerous cultures, races and religion, making it honestly one of the most unique and diversified destinations in the world. The cultural exoticism that lies here is materialized in KL’s Little India, or more commonly referred to by locals as Brickfields. Here you will be transported into Malaysia’s celebrated Indian traditions where you can dip your hand into endless amounts of rice, dhal and curry, in addition to a plethora of fusional Malaysian-Indian dishes. The paved streets of Brickfield are sparkled with colour, and scented with jasmine while spices waft over tabla rhythms and the range of stacked embroidered textiles outdoes any tropical sunset.

4) Thean Hou Temple by Robson Heights

While Brickfields may give you an insight to Malaysia’s Indian roots, Thean Hou Temple by the secluded Robson Heights represents unprecedented Chinese-Malaysian architecture at its finest. The temple was built by the Hianese community in Kuala Lumpur and is dedicated to the Goddess Tian Hou. Possessing elements of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, Thean Hou’s grandiose structure is a successful combination of modern architectural techniques and authentic traditional design, featuring imposing pillars, spectacular roofs, ornate carvings and intricate embellishments. And if standing in sheer reverence at this architectural masterpiece isn’t enough, the towering and imposing 6-storey temple provides wonderful views of Kuala Lumpur.

5) Rumah Penghulu at Badan Warisan

In a city that strives for economic and technological progress, we can often lose sight of our historical past and cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the Rumah Penghulu at Badan Warisan that is dwarfed by towering skyscrapers would be a refreshing insight to the lives of native Malaysians. This cultural artefact is one of the oldest surviving traditional wooden Malay houses. It was built in stages between 1910 and the early 1930s in a small village north of Peninsula Malaysia and was later relocated and restored in 1996. Today, it stands as one of the finest remaining examples of Malay vernacular architecture. Here you can enjoy a guided tour of the compound or even roam around its tropical gardens.

6) Dine at the Straits Food Company in Bangsar

We’ve spoken about various sites that represent the diverse yet individual sub-cultures present in Malaysia. Albeit, I am yet to mention a place that discusses a unified and harmonious Malaysia where all of our ethnic cultures, religions and races make Malaysia what it is. Something tangible that brings us Malaysians together is food. And while it is now a rare sight to see retirees and civil servants sitting in a coffee shop, sipping on a bottomless cup of Kopi with a pack of cigarettes in their linen shirts, and the daily newspaper spread out across the table, The Straits Food Company is an attempt at recapturing the coffee shop nostalgia of Malaysia. It’s peranakan interior coupled with an outstanding local menu should revive our fading past. With cheap and affordable prices, mosaic tiles and ratty stools, it’s all refreshingly Malaysian. Do pay this modern-classic a visit because it really is, as described, “Food For All”.

7) Enjoy Jazz, Funk and Groove at No Black Tie

The extended strip of bars and nightclubs at Changkat, Bukit Bintang features an ever-changing selection of venues offering everything from Irish ale to Cuban mojitos. The packed and bustling street scene is compact enough that you can barhop until the sun begins to shine and the constant chatter begins to fade. While bars are struggling to keep up with trends and the neighboring competition, there’s one place that delivers consistently and that is No Black Tie. This is Malaysia’s Blue Note, the city’s singular jazz joint that screams refined cocktails under murmurs of Miles Davis. The wooden interior in contrast to the countless number of vintage jazz posters compliments the venues name and live acts from all over the world keep owner, hostess and pianist Evelyn Hii’s No Black Tie continuously pulsating.

8) MAP at Publika

MAP is malleable art space where enlightened developers decided to creatively jazz up the Solaris Dutamas housing complex. Here, spectators are able to explore contemporary ideas and get a taste of KL’s emerging art scene. This arts organization consists of two spaces – the 6,000 square feet White Box gallery and the 250-seat Black Box new media space. Calling itself the newest arts platform for Kuala Lumpur, it provides a space for artists from the region from multi-disciplinary backgrounds to share their cutting edge works with a wider audience.

9) Omakase + Appreciate near Masjid Jamek

Headed by two renowned Malaysian mixologists, Karl Too and Chong Yi Shawn, Omakase + Appreciate is no easy feat to find. Located behind an intimidating ventilated door down a flight of dimly lit steps by the Bangunan Ming Annexe, you’ll find yourself transported to a spot that resembles a quintessential Peranakan hotel room. The space hosts host no more than five tables and the powering, antique shelf that holds copious amounts of alcohol and dominates the entire room hints at Omakase + Appreciate’s sole purpose, that is to serve the finest concoctions to a crowd who wants nothing less.

Uber and Wonderful Malaysia are offering 2 free rides around Kuala Lumpur, worth up to RM20 each to give you an opportunity to visit some of these spots. Download the Uber App and enter the promocode WONDERFULMAYAYSIA. Read more here.

Published originally at Attractions - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Kuala Lumpur’s Hidden Gems

In this day and age, even when you are unplugged and on vacation, there seem to be times when you unavoidably need to use the internet or contact a friend or family member back home. However, using your mobile phone abroad can mean a big bill once you get back. Of course there is always the option to stick to free Wi-Fi; however, let’s face it, no one wants to stay in the hotel or resort – which in remote areas is often the only place with a free connection – to be able to check in with friends, family or work (though sometimes that actually isn’t that bad, see the stunning lobby of the Westin Langkawi below).

Luckily, in big cities in Malaysia there are coffee places and restaurants at every corner, all offering free Wi-Fi services (actually, local restaurants in Kuala Lumpur are required by law to offer free Wi-Fi). Same goes for most of the popular tourist destinations within Malaysia; everywhere you go you can connect to free Wi-Fi. However, you may want to look into the safety of this method of using the internet abroad. Especially on a tablet or notebook, chances are that that free connection is all but secure. Not to mention that if you are out and about and need to look up bus times in order to travel into the city, or if you need directions to a restaurant or to a remote attraction, you really need to have access to the internet.

So how can you relay your climb up Mount Kinabalu on Twitter or share your breathtaking pictures of Kuala Lumpur on Instagram without racking up a bill?

Buy a travel data package

This is convenient since it is a package deal. Of course most phone providers will offer an international data package, or you can buy a local SIM card from your travel destination. Keep in mind that you will most likely have to unlock your phone to do this, if you do not already have an unlocked smart phone. Within Malaysia, some of the bigger companies offering travel data packages are Celcom, Hotlink, TuneTalk, Umobile and Digi. We would recommend Hotlink by main celcom operator Maxis because unlike Celcom and the others, Maxis has by far the best coverage and often the fastest and most stable 3G data connection. If you are only staying in the bigger cities, TuneTalk and Umobile are your best affordable choices.

Do your research before you go, though, with something like TripAdvisor, so that you know the best options for your budget, instead of ending up with a more expensive monthly package that you don’t need. The Guardian has a detailed article offering further tips on keeping mobile phone charges down while abroad, which you can see here.

If you are visiting many other foreign countries besides Malaysia, it may be a better option to buy a World Wide Sim Card, that you can use in every country with similar prices for calling and data usage.

Use online telephony and messaging services

To make the most of whatever data plan you choose, you will want to opt for online telephony and messaging services like Whatsapp, Viber, or Facebook Messenger for messaging or apps like Skype, or VOIP options like Bria or Joxko for calling. Obviously using these within a free Wi-Fi zone is still the most optimal, but they are a better option than paying per SMS or phone call on your prepaid data plan.

Out of these options, we would recommend Joxko, because it works off of a phone account that is easy to top up from anywhere, and allows you to call local landlines instead of only between accounts, like BBM Voice. Plus, a nice feature is that it can be paid for through a number of options, so if you are trying to limit risky purchasing practices on your trip, you can top up your account through something like paysafecard instead of entering sensitive payment information over free Wi-Fi.

For more information on travel costs, covering everything from customs and import regulations to accommodations, food, transportation, and even health insurance and vaccinations, check out our article Travel Cost for Malaysia.

Published originally at Tips - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Keeping mobile costs down while traveling in Malaysia

Ever considered using Uber when taking a taxi in Kuala Lumpur? Of course grabbing a taxi in Malaysia’s capital is cheap, but it can often be quite a hassle. Sometimes the car is old, sometimes the driver drives bad, sometimes the driver doesn’t want to use the meter, sometimes you are offered a ridiculously high fixed price.

Uber is a great and often cheaper alternative. With the easy-to-use Uber app (available on all popular mobile phone platforms) you can order a taxi when you are still chilling in your favorite coffee place.

Together with Uber Malaysia we have a nice offer for all readers of Wonderful Malaysia. All new subscribers that sign up to the Uber taxi service will receive a free RM20 to use on their first two rides with Uber.

Download the Uber app here: iTunes / Android / Windows

During configuration/installation (in the payment details screen see USE CODE), use promotion code: WONDERFULMALAYSIA to immediately get your RM20 to start with. You can also insert the code after installation in the screen that says “promotions”.

Happy travels!

Published originally at Tips - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Sign up with Uber Malaysia and get RM20 worth of free rides

Located over six thousand feet above sea level and 51km northeast of Malaysia’s bustling capital Kuala Lumpur is the Genting Highlands, Malaysia’s premier tourist destination and getaway. For any person visiting Malaysia, Genting is a complete must-see, bursting with all manner of entertainment prospects, fine dining experiences and luxury accommodations that make the vast majority of Asia’s resorts look pale in comparison.

Arriving in the Genting Highlands, one is likely to feel rather awe-struck. Jutting out of the top of the most verdant of hills, the resort offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and countryside. Peaks and hills pop up out of the clouds creating a magnificent and heavenly atmosphere, one that seems exceptionally different to the hot bustle of the Malay archipelago’s less vertiginous regions thanks to the spring time weather and temperature that Ulu Kali Mountain experiences all year round. Many visitors’ first experiences of the resort will be via the amazing cable cars that run up to the top of the mountain, a trip that offers views that one can only describe as one of a kind.

In terms of entertainment, Genting excels. There’s an indoor theme park featuring all manner of fun and exciting rides for people of every age as well as an indoor snow area! The indoor park is surrounded by a huge range of restaurants, bars and eateries too; the Coffee Terrace buffet restaurant, western-themed Bubbles & Bites, and the exquisite Genting Palace Restaurant, to name but a few. The resort also features an even more exciting outdoor theme park featuring dizzying rides and even more restaurants, making this a place where no one could feasibly run out of things to do and see.

Resorts World Genting also features the country’s only casino with multiple outlets throughout the complex, the Casino de Genting. Here players can enjoy all of the slots, table games and experiences one would only usually find on the Las Vegas Strip, however it’s a good idea to get in a little practice first at an online casino like Euro Palace beforehand in order to get the absolute most from the glittering and stylish casino climes!

For adults, Genting Highlands features even more amazing things to do. The hotels dotting the resort feature a great number of bars and terraces that look out over the surrounding countryside, and late night thrills can also be enjoyed at the Genting Club 360 Bar, Cloud 9 nightclub and The Patio wine and whisky bar. All of these regularly feature world-leading acts and bands that make whiling away an evening a complete joy!

Have you ever been to Genting? What were your favourite parts of this amazing resort? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section!

Published originally at Attractions - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Genting Highlands: Why You Should Visit

If your trip to Malaysia isn’t supposed to be a solitary voyage of self-discovery, then you probably want to brag a bit on social media with those picturesque landscapes and turquoise waters – or skype with home. Most modern nations today have readily accessible free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout major metropolitan areas, and Malaysia delivers on that experience.

Here are a few tips on where and how to best access free Wi-Fi in Malaysia.

Restaurants

The state governments of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor have made it mandatory for food outlets in their respective municipalities to provide a free Wi-Fi connection to customers. This service extends to eateries such as McDonalds, KFC and most restaurants throughout the nation. Buying a drink will allow you to access their Internet.

Coffee shops

As in most other countries, coffee shops usually offer free Wi-Fi and you will see people with their laptops working or procrastinating while sipping on their drinks. Mega chain coffee shops such as Starbucks, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, PappaRich, and Old Town White Coffee are all required to offer Wi-Fi by their parent group.

Smartphone Apps

There are a number of apps assisting you not only to track the nearest Wi-Fi, but also supply you with their passwords. An example is Kirill Kudin’s free iPhone app, which uses your phone’s GPS and network triangulation capabilities to determine nearby Wi-Fi networks. The limitation of this free application is that it only allows you to search for free hotspots within a 1km radius.

Stay safe

Make sure not to input sensitive information when using a public Wi-Fi. Hacking into the network and tracking its traffic is relatively easy. If you need to make payments, then look to see if you can use services such as paysafecard – which can be bought for cash and allow the user to input a code online – than to be handing out your credit card details.

Published originally at Tips - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Getting Free Wi-Fi in Malaysia

Calling all aspiring paleontologists and dinosaur enthusiasts! Experience a time warp to the Mesozoic Era at Dinoscovery by Dinosaurs Live!, Asia Pacific’s first-of-its kind world-class interactive, edutainment dinosaur exhibition at Avenue K.

Featuring reengineered life-size animatronic dinosaurs in true-to-life adventure-like settings, the 13,000 square foot exhibition invites visitors to travel back in time and learn about dinosaurs via 15 hands-on, experiential and highly interactive educational activities whilst offering a sensory feast of endless fun for the whole family!

Dinoscovery by Dinosaurs Live! is designed to provide a highly exhilarating experience whereby visitors are able to see larger-than-life dinosaurs move and hear them roar in their habitat. Apart from that, the exhibition’s mini cinema also provides visitors the chance to see these reptiles in 3D.

Amongst the exhibition’s star attractions include the Dino Quest, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) based scavenger hunt which will propel the visitors through a time warp and transform them into paleontologists on the hunt for dinosaurs and specimens. Visitors will be equipped with a paleontologist map and a RFID band which will guide them through the hunt to detect nearby specimens. Upon completion of the activity, visitors will receive a Junior or Expert Paleontologist certificate at the redemption and merchandising counter.

Other exciting activities include the opportunity to participate in an adventure to save the Diplocuses by shooting pesky mosquitoes, excavating fossils at the sand pit, climbing a wall to have a glimpse of a Pteranodon’s nest, handling dinosaur poo, challenging a Gallimimus in an interactive race, and learning about the evolution of dinosaurs by analyzing and comparing present-day animals such as chickens and elephants with dinosaurs as such the Theropod and Sauropod.

Visitors may also enjoy delectable fusion food while quenching their thirst with a variety of unique mocktails and freshly brewed coffee at the Discoveria Cafeteria. Unleash your inner paleontologist today!

Entry Fees & Opening Hours

Tickets for children aged 17 years and below are priced at RM35 for Malaysians and RM50 for non-Malaysians while tickets for adults are priced at RM25 for Malaysians and RM40 for non-Malaysians. Opening hours are 10am to 7pm on weekdays and 10am to 8pm on weekends including school and public holidays.

Contact Details & Address

Level 4, Discoveria @ Avenue K Shopping Mall
156, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +603 2181 7218

For more information or enquiries on the exhibition, contact the exhibition hotline 03 2181 7218, log on to discoveria.com.my or visit Discoveria’s Facebook page at facebook.com/discoveria.kl.

Location Dinoscovery by Dinosaurs Live!

Suggestions?

Got any good tips to share with us? Do you know of any great things to do in Malaysia, or tips on the best places to eat? Let us know by leaving a reply below!

Published originally at Attractions - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Have a Roar-Some Time at Dinoscovery

Malaysia is an ideal country to do an internship. Many international students choose to do their internship in Malaysia because of the developing and diversified economy. Other reasons are of course the climate, the language and the ability to travel during their days off. English is well spoken in Malaysia, which makes it a suitable country for students from all over the world.

Search for an internship

There are different ways to search for an internship in Malaysia. The best way is to get in touch with companies through friends or relatives who have done an internship or worked in Malaysia before. If you do not know anyone who has been in Malaysia for an internship, you can try to get information at the International Office or the Internship Coordinator at your University.
But you can also try to find an internship yourself. Big, international companies often have information on their website about the possibilities to do an internship with them. And smaller companies you can reach by email to inquire about the possibilities. Make sure that you start your search on time, because it can take up to six months to find a company. And once you have found one, it is not easy to check from your home country if the company is suitable. You may check with the company if they have supervised (international) interns before and whether you can get in touch with them to ask about their experiences.

Students who are looking for an internship in the hotel industry can take a look at http://www.hotelinternshipasia.eu, a website for European students. Here you can find available internship positions at various hotels in Malaysia and other Asian countries. You can apply by uploading your motivation letter and CV, your application will directly go to the hotel.

Another way to find an internship in Malaysia, is through an internship agency. Stage in Azië is a Dutch internship agency and internationally they are active as Kong International (http://www.konginternational.nl). This agency was founded by Timothy Kong and Sophia van Huijgevoort from The Netherlands, who both have working experience in Malaysia. Timothy and Sophia know the country and its culture and they work with companies that have solid experience in supervising international interns. Most of the companies they work with are SMEs and are located in or nearby Kuala Lumpur. In addition to arranging the internship, Timothy and Sophia also help you with finding accommodation and they bring you in touch with other students that are going to do their internship in Malaysia.

Finance

Some internship companies offer housing and/or a monthly allowance, but there are also a lot of companies that offer neither. The amount of the monthly allowance is different for each company, but mostly between 400 and 1000 Malaysian Ringgit.
 

Housing

It is really easy to find a furnished room or apartment in Kuala Lumpur. Before you go to Malaysia, you can already start looking for housing through websites such as http://www.iproperty.com.my. You can get in contact with landlords via SMS/WhatsApp/email to get more information about the rooms or apartments. But it is recommended not to sign any contracts or do payments before you have seen the property with your own eyes. Once you have arrived in Malaysia, it is easy to view properties and arrange housing within five days. In the meantime you can stay in a hotel. The deposit you have to pay is usually two to three months’ rent. It is not possible for foreign interns to open a bank account in Malaysia, therefore speak with the landlord to discuss the possible ways to pay the monthly rental, cash or online.

Visa

The requirements concerning the needed visa for Malaysia are different for each country. For information about this, you should contact the Malaysian embassy in your country or ask your internship company in Malaysia.

Published originally at FAQ - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Malaysia: The ideal internship destination

If it’s your own slice of paradise with powder-sugar sand and strikingly turquoise waters that you’re after then Pulau Rawa might just be the place for you. Offering far more than just your stereotypical tropical island paradise, Rawa also brings along with it the unparalleled welcome of the local island staff and an atmosphere of fun and family that is hard to rival on other Malaysian islands.

Located just off the East coast of Johor, Pulau Rawa is one of the smaller islands in the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park archipelago and can be easily reached from Mersing pier. It couldn’t be easier. The staff at each of the two hotels – Alang’s Rawa & Rawa Island Resort – on the island (yes, only two, it’s that small!) will pick you up from the jetty in resort speedboats, ready to whisk you off to uninterrupted relaxation. The boat can be a little choppy at certain times of the year, leading to a good head-to-toe soaking and a bouncing ride across the waves. This, however, only adds to the fun and sense of adventure. For all those non-seafaring types, fear not, they also have enclosed speed boats that will transport you to the island in blissful, bone-dry tranquility.

Before docking at the pier, you’re greeted with the view of the dazzling Rawa beach and inviting cool blue of the crystal clear waters. Rawa truly is a little gem and you can appreciate this as you approach. Being more quality than quantity, the island spans less than 1km across at its widest point. With no roads, no beach sellers, no nightclubs you’re left to enjoy the nature of the island as it was intended. Pristine sandy beach borders the west side of the island while rough jungle vegetation, clinging tightly to the steep hillsides, protrudes from the serene sands, covers the hilltops and eventually drops into the ocean on the eastern shore.

Stepping onto the jetty, you’ll be welcomed by the hotel team and your holiday begins immediately. Amble on to the beach, feel your toes melt into the sun-baked sand and watch as the stress of the city melts away. Rawa is an ideal place to lounge on the beach, catch up on that reading and slumber through the midday heat, but should there be any active types amongst you there are also activities on offer to keep you entertained. Snorkelling, kayaking and beach volleyball are all on the cards and there’s always the short hike to the top of the island offering spectacular 360 degree views of the surrounding islands.

At night Rawa throws up yet another pleasant surprise. Tranquil by day, at night Alang’s Rawa can turn into a sociable and lively spot. As the resort is modest in size, there often develops a sense of companionship amongst its guest that can carry on to the wee hours. Always in great spirits, and with a collection of like-minded people, you can while away the hours with a ‘Rawa Special’ cocktail whilst meeting people from all over the world.

It’s no secret that Malaysia has an abundance of beautiful islands, all of which offer their own unique twist on the island paradise. But when it comes to raw, natural beauty Pulau Rawa is hard to beat. Still blissfully unspoilt & sensitively developed, the owners have ensured that nothing is taken away from the island’s natural offerings and, in doing so, have provided a small opening through which you and I are able to enjoy our own taste of paradise and discover some of the more hidden corners of this beautiful country.

Published originally at Attractions - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Stunning Rawa Island

Bukit Puteri (Princess Hill) was said to get its name from local folktale, or history. According to the local tale, there was a princess who lived on the hill before. The princess was from ‘the other side of the world’ and could not be seen by human beings. The presence of the princess was only felt during wedding festivals. It was not her physical form that could be seen but rather, her plates and silverware! Apparently, villagers who could not afford to get enough plates and cutlery for weddings could ‘borrow’ it from the princess. The plates, spoons and forks would be left at the foot of the hill for ‘loan’ and must be returned the following day in good condition. Since then, the hill was called Bukit Puteri.

Unfortunately, some villagers took the princess’ generosity for granted and failed to abide by the rule. The princess was not happy with people returning her collection broken or even, not returning them at all, so she moved to another hill in the Besut district. The princess’ new home was soon called Bukit Puteri too by the locals there.

However, those who don’t have a penchant for folklore stick by the more ‘realistic’ belief of how Bukit Puteri obtained its name. History has it that a group of people from Johor led by a Johor chieftain came to open a new village at the foot of the hill. The nobleman, who went by the name Tuk Raja Menteri, named the hill as Bukit Puteri. History was as simple as that.

Bukit Puteri spans an area of 0.688 hectares and the hill, measuring 200 m in height, is the highest peak in Kuala Terengganu. When one is standing on the top of the hill, a scenic view of Kuala Terengganu with the Sungai Terengganu river mouth unfolds. There is also a magnificent view of the South China Sea and its fishermen hard at work in their boats. Visitors normally hike up the hill for photography opportunities or just to have a leisurely stroll.

The view atop the hill isn’t the only attraction; there are far more to see at the top. There are historical remains as Bukit Puteri was once used by the sultan as a defense fort during the civil war. Some of the remains include a battery of four cannons, a royal flagpole, a 100-year-old yellow copper genta (a large bell) and remnants of the fort-cemetery and defense walls. There is also a lighthouse on the top of the hill.

The hill is located next to Istana Maziah and is easily accessible from Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu. The hill is open every day to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The entrance fee is a very affordable RM1.

Map Bukit Puteri

Suggestions?

Got any good tips to share with us? Do you know of any great things to do in Malaysia, or tips on the best places to eat? Let us know by leaving a reply below!

Published originally at Attractions - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Bukit Puteri, Kuala Terengganu

One of the most culturally diverse nations in South Asia, Malaysia has a lot to offer the plucky globetrotter. However, before you board the plane and jet off for the experience of a lifetime, you’ll need an itinerary.

Touching down in one of the country’s many airports without a plan isn’t a good idea, which is why we’ve decided to make things easier for you and give you a whistle-stop tour of Malaysia’s top attractions. Although not extensive, this list should give you some of the major points of interest among the wealth of options available.

The Petronas Twin Towers

If you’ve got a head for heights and an appreciation of engineering excellence, then Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers are a sight to behold. Formerly the tallest buildings in the world (still the tallest twin buildings), these impressive structures contain 88 floors each and the glass exterior has been designed to reflect Malaysia’s Muslim roots. In terms of scale, there are few attractions in the world, let alone Malaysia, that can compete with the Petronas Twin Towers.

Langkawi Islands

Taking in the wonderful sights and sounds of Malaysia’s top tourist destinations is one thing, but if it’s peace and quiet you’re looking for then the Langkawi Islands are a must. Located in the Andaman Sea, this archipelago consists of 99 islands and a stunning array of natural wildlife. By far the largest of the islands is Pulau Langkawi and among its mountainous coastline is a string of beaches offering some of the most relaxing (and picturesque) moments in Malaysia.

Have a Flutter

Asia is known for its love of gambling and while cities in Malaysia aren’t quite as keen on casinos as places such as Macau, there’s still a longstanding affinity with the industry. Aside from simply being places to wager money, Malaysian casinos, such as Casino de Genting, have a distinctly entertaining vibe with restaurants, bars and spa facilities in each.

However, you can’t go into one of these venues without trying your hand at some Full Tilt casino games. Obviously you don’t want to spend your cash without knowing what you’re doing, so our advice is to play some free money casino games online before you visit a Malaysian casino. That way, you won’t go completely broke after you’ve anted-up.

Heading into the Forest

For a look at what life was like before humans invaded Malaysia, then Taman Negara is a must. Meaning “national park” in Malay, this rain forest is one of the oldest in the world and a haven for some of the most exotic animals you’ll ever see.

Not only that, but the impressive tress help form a maze-like setting as you climb across rope bridges and navigate forest walkways on your way through the park. Although the weather is never predictable, it’s best to visit Taman Negara during the dry season which runs from February to September. If you want to avoid the crowds then resist visiting during peaks time between April and August.

Malaysia is a wonderful country to explore and one that requires several different plans of attack. Indeed, as you can see from our list of suggestions you can indulge in everything from modern feats of engineering to stunning beaches and dense forests. However, regardless of the places you choose to visit, we’re certain you’ll have a fantastic time when you visit Malaysia.

Published originally at Tips - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Your Quick Guide to Malaysia

Eid al-Adha, also known as Hari Raya Aidiladha or the Feast of the Sacrifice, is the day when worldwide Muslims celebrate the occasion when Allah appeared to Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as a sign of devotion. His son, Ishmael was not sacrificed at the end, instead he was stopped by Allah and a lamb was given as the sacrifice. This day celebrates the willingness of Ibrahim to put forward everything, even his son’s life on his devotion to Allah.

Eid al-Adha is a three-day celebration that starts on the 10th day of Zul-Hijja. However, Muslims will wait for the official announcement by the religious bodies in Mecca. On the first morning, Muslims all around the world attend morning prayers at their local mosques. After that, the slaughtering of sacrifices will follow.

Today, Muslims commemorate the holiday by sacrificing a sheep, cow or goat. The meat from the sacrifice is then distributed to the poor and needy. Islam teaches its followers that Allah has given man the power over animals, therefore allowing Muslims to eat meat. However, His name has to be pronounced as to remind human that life is sacred.

At dawn, in order to commemorate Eid al-Adha, all men and women in good health will congregate at the mosques to offer Eid prayers. Menstruating women do not join the prayer but they will be present to witness the gathering. Mass prayers are conducted across the globe by all those celebrating. In Mecca, a record spectacular count of 2 million Muslims had been witnessed gathering at the Grand Mosque for the annual Haj pilgrimage in 2013. Moscow is another city where a great congregation of Muslims has gathered to pray together.

Muslims are to acquire new clothing and wear them on this day, and they will visit their family and friends. Muslims may offer gifts to each other and give to the needy. They wish each other “Eid Mubarak” which means “have a blessed Eid” to each other.

Some traditional Eid food includes kebab, haleem and kurma. However, Eid cuisine varies with country. In South Asian countries, rice dishes such as briyani and pulao are prepared for celebration. The traditional food in Morocco is such as msemen, harcha, beghrir and krachel. Some Muslims enjoy feasting on organ meats and turkey.

Eid al-Adha is also celebrated with sweet dishes and cookies. Muslims can prepare them at home or buy them from sweet shops. Dates cooked in milk are one of the common sweets served in the morning before the prayer. In Egypt, Muslims feast on konafa which is made of pasta, syrup and cream. Pakistanis have zarda, which is yellow coloured rice with sugar, raisins, almonds and cardamom seeds. Other sweet dishes include baklava, gulab jamun, and ma’amoul.

In Malaysia, a public holiday is observed for Eid al-Adha but in some parts of the world, Eid al-Adha is celebrated on a grander scale for three days in remembrance of Ibrahim’s total submission to Allah, and also to mark the end of the Hajj.

Published originally at FAQ - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Eid al-Adha

We both are foreigners from the same country and we would like to get married in Malaysia. What is the correct procedure?

Getting married in Malaysia is quite easy if both of you have not been married before. There are only a few necessary steps that need to be followed to go through the administrative part of a marriage. How you celebrate the ceremonial part (the actual wedding ceremony) is complete up to the soon to be married couple.

Requirements and steps needed to get married in Malaysia

Below a short list with the requirements and steps that are necessary to get married in Malaysia based on situation where a foreign couple gets officially married:

• First step is to go to your own embassy and both get an official ‘Single Status Declaration’ (or Letter of Confirmation of Marital Status). If this document is already given to you in the English language then you are good to go. If the document is handed out in a foreign language (not English and not Malay) then you need to have it officially translated. In some cases this can be done by your own embassy. If not, then you have to visit a Commissioner of Oath, widely available throughout Malaysia (we once used one in Lucky Plaza, opposite Bangsar Village I shopping center).
• After you get two official (possibly translated) Single Status Declarations, you head over to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia in Putrajaya (see address below) to endorse (authenticate and legalize) the documents at their notarial service counter.
• Some websites (also official websites) describe the requirement of bringing your birth certificate along. We did not need that.
• Next step is to actually register your marriage. In order to do so you need to bring the documents mentioned before along, but also the official National Registration Department document: JPN.KC02. This document is in Bahasa Malayu, but you can get help at the National Registration Department (there is a foreign filled in example) or get help from any of your local friends. Make sure you bring along 1 color photograph measuring (32mm X 38mm) against a blue background for each person. To register your marriage you need to visit one of the official National Registration Department branches. There are a few in Kuala Lumpur, though the most centrally located one is at Maju Junction near the city center (see address below).
• When you register your marriage you also need to bring along your original passport, including photocopies of the most important pages; the personal information page, the page with the date of arrival stamp and a copy of the departure card.
• Tourists that want to get married in Malaysia need to reside in the marriage district for at least a period of 7 days before applying for registration of marriage at the National Registration Department Office.
• When registering the marriage you are asked about the date that you actually get married. This date is always three weeks or more from the moment of registration. Remember that you need two witnesses (local or foreign aged 21 years and above, both need to bring along their passports) to appear at the actual marriage date (so not during the marriage registration); make sure they are able to join you at the actual marriage.
• The costs of the marriage are RM30 in total, payment is done at the day you get married.
• On that day all four need to bring along their passports. The couple also needs to bring along the official form that they got during the registration of the marriage. The wedding couple needs to wear proper clothes, semi formal and not casual (no jeans, short sleeved shirts and such). We saw people arriving in traditional Indian clothes, in complete wedding gowns (and tuxedos), but also many in smart casual to formal clothes (normal suit and such).
• On the day of marriage you arrive in the morning. The procedure is based on a first come, first served basis. The earlier you arrive the bigger the chance that you are one of the first to get married that day. At 11am the marriage counter at NRD closes, all people that arrived before that time will be married on the same day. If you are too late, you need to reschedule.
• After the marriage is final you get the official marriage certificate. You can chose to have this document endorsed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia so you can use it in your own country to register the marriage over there too.

So in Short: Single Status Declaration, Endorsement of Single Status Declaration, JPN.KC02 document, 1 color photograph, original passport, photocopies of important pages of passport, at least in Malaysia for 7 days, two reliable witnesses, RM30 total costs, three weeks from registration to marriage date.

Malaysia as a wedding destination

Of course Malaysia has everything to offer to organize the best tropical wedding ever. There are numerous luxurious resorts at many destinations within Malaysia where you can have your wedding organized. Most resorts even offer wedding planning services. Popular places to hold a wedding ceremony are Langkawi Island, Penang Island, Pangkor Island, Tioman Island and many more destinations. All of these islands offer many great attractions, so your wedding guests can easily stay a bit longer before or after the wedding to fully explore the area.

Addresses

Embassies:

see our list with embassies in Kuala Lumpur.
Ministry Of Foreign Affairs:
Consular Division
Wisma Putra
No1, Jalan Wisma Putra
Precinct 2
62602 Putrajaya
Tel : (603)-88874000
Email: konsular@kln.gov.my
Website: http://www.kln.gov.my/
Opening hours:
Monday – Thursday 8.30 am – 12.30 pm, 2.00 pm – 4.00 pm
Friday 8.30 am – 12.15 pm, 2.45 pm – 4.00 pm
For authentication service applicant needs to show IC/Passport.

National Registration Department Office (KLCC branch):

Maju Junction Mall (opposite Tune Hotel)
6 th & 7 th Floors,
1001, Jalan Sultan Ismail
50551 Kuala Lumpur
Website: http://www.jpn.gov.my/en
Tel: 03-26925044, 03-26925018, 03-26925029, 03-26925034
Email: admin_wilayah@jpn.gov.my

Note: We can verify that this information is valid and correct as we experienced all necessary steps first hand. However, things may have changed in time, so always check if the steps stayed the same and if they also apply to your situation. Malaysia does not recognize gay marriage.

Read more on getting Married in Malaysia.

Published originally at FAQ - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Getting married in Malaysia

I am traveling in Malaysia during Christmas, what can I expect?

When someone mentions ‘Christmas’, snow, decorated pine trees, presents and of course, Santa Claus comes to mind. It’s close to impossible to have a white Christmas in Malaysia but this doesn’t mean that the celebrations are less festive, for Christmas is celebrated the Malaysian way!

Many look forward to the Christmas decorations put up by the shopping malls. The set up is certainly pretty with gigantic Christmas trees; some are even as tall as six storeys and are heavily decked with baubles, candy canes and angels. The malls change their theme each year and try to outdo each other, only to our benefit. One year, we had one mall ‘scattered’ with life-sized teddy bears in line with their ‘Beary Christmas’ theme while another had real fake ‘snow’ falling, leading to an elderly man exclaiming, ‘Wow, there’s snow, there’s snow!’. We were actually there the first time Pavilion KL started this snowwy tradition. Hundreds came to the square in front of the mall, to see the snow coming down (it was actually a soap-like substance, but nobody minded and everybody had a great time).

As Christmas approaches, don’t be surprised to find the Christmas spirit in even the non-Christians. Malaysians from all walks of life spend the Christmas holidays visiting their friends with their families. At Christmas countdowns in selected locations, you can see people enjoying the festive cheer and wishing each other happy holidays and Merry Christmas.

You can see people wearing the signature red cap of St Nicholas and grooving to the beat of Christmas songs. There is even caroling in some malls and the audience are from different walks of life and religion too. At the workplace, colleagues organize a secret Santa event to exchange gifts, where every member of the team shares the spirit of giving, regardless of status, age or race. Christmas is not exclusively for Christians here in Malaysia but it’s celebrated by all in their own unique way without disrespecting their own religion.

Most Malaysians, celebrating or not, flock to the shopping malls – a typical Malaysian past time. There, they enjoy the activities and events organized by the malls and even do some shopping, taking advantage of the Christmas and Year End Sale. On the night of Christmas eve, when the clock strikes twelve, various locations perform firework displays to welcome Christmas with a bang. Malaysians flock to these locations earlier during the day to get good spots to view the magnificent displays of fireworks. As usual, you can find Malays, Indians, Chinese and even foreign visitors enjoying the show together. In Malaysia, you don’t need to be a Christian to enjoy Christmas and have the holiday spirit in you.

In Malaysia, Christmas is only celebrated on Christmas Eve. The actual first day of Christmas is often business as usual for many Malaysians. The lush decorations cannot be taken down soon enough after Christmas, as then all the mall will repeat the same ‘contest’ for the nearing New Years Eve (which is immediately followed by Chinese New Year preparations). The is no second day of Christmas, as this is only custom in a few countries in the world. Many restaurants have special Christmas Eve menus. This is your chance to eat out at a fancy restaurant, as due to competition prices are often very low. Usually western oriented restaurants also have a special Christmas menu for the 25th of December.

Many expats in KL take a few days of holiday during Christmas, to travel to a nice destination within Malaysia. Though it is quite fun to spend Christmas at one of the islands of Malaysia, for example at Langkawi or Penang, the most popular place in Malaysia to visit around Christmas is Cameron Highlands. The highlands have a cold(er) climate, and the setting is perfect to replicate that cold Christmas Eve. Many hotels and resorts are fully booked during Christmas, so make sure you book beforehand. This goes especially for the more exclusive and romantic places. Three very popular places to stay overnight during Christmas are The Smokehouse Hotel ***, The Lakehouse **** and Cameron Highlands Resort *****.

Published originally at FAQ - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Christmas in Malaysia

The Muslim community in Malaysia and all over the world celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri, or also known as Hari Raya Puasa, to conclude the Ramadan holy month of fasting. Hari Raya Aidilfitri is regarded as a merry celebration as it marks a person’s triumph and success on discipline and self-resistance which symbolizes refinement and rebirth.

It is necessary for Muslims to fast during the month of Ramadan, where they have to maintain their self-resistance in satisfying their basic needs and urges between sunrise till sunset. They abstain from food and drinks, as well as from smoking and sexual relations. It is also important that they keep their minds pure and not harbor any ill thoughts or intentions during this holy month.

The fasting doesn’t deter the celebrants from making preparations to welcome Hari Raya Aidilfitri. The excitement builds up way before the first day, where families start to shop for new clothes, delicacies and goodies and furnish their home with new furniture and decoration weeks. Brightly-colored lights, in the common hues of green, yellow and gold, can be seen adorning the mosques and the offices of government agencies.

When the new moon is seen on the evening of the last day of Ramadan, the fasting period comes to an end. Such sightings are made by religious officials at various hilltops throughout the country and when the crescent moon is seen, the following day marks the first day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

On the morning of Hari Raya, the men perform prayers at the mosque while children ask for forgiveness from their parents. The little ones will also be given ‘duit raya’ or gifts of money in small green packets. While the first three days of Hari Raya are usually reserved for catching up with the family, many families hold open houses throughout the month where friends and neighbors of other races are invited to share conversation, laughter and a variety of cookies, candy and traditional delicacies.

Ketupat is one of the must-haves at Hari Raya. It is served together with beef rending (beef cooked with coconut milk and malay spices) together with satay (skewered grilled meat). Other delicious delicates are such as lemang (glutinous rice cooked in bamboo tubes), serunding (dry coconut fried with chilli) and curry chicken.

In Malaysia, the first two days are regarded as public holidays but most will take a week off for this celebration. Those working in the cities will return to their hometowns (balik kampung) and reunite with their parents, relatives and old friends in the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, leaving the cities quiet and empty during the festive season (usually there are very good airline deals in the weeks/months before the Balik Kampung period). Although the cities start to be populated again at the end of the week, the celebration doesn’t end there as one month of Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations follow a month of fasting. People continue visiting each other’s homes and throwing open houses until the festivities approaches its end 30 days later. It isn’t often that festivities last for a month long, so take the opportunity to catch up with friends and family while indulging in the various delicacies!

Published originally at FAQ - Wonderful Malaysia. Read the article here: Hari Raya Puasa (Hari Raya Aidilfitri)