Malaysia’s 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Perhentian Islands © Phalinn Ooi

Perhentian Islands

Sea lovers planning to visit Malaysia should put the Perhentian Islands on the top of their list of places to see. This is a small archipelago with two main islands – Besar, the bigger, and Kecil, the smaller – both boasting splendid beaches, white sand, an amazingly blue, shallow sea and the shadow of tall palm trees. Apart from tourists, the islands are mostly uninhabited, making them a perfect place to disconnect and take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The Perhentian Islands are especially recommended to those who enjoy the sea not just for a swim, but also for water activities such as canoeing (both islands can be circumnavigated in a day), scuba diving and snorkeling. The islands are fringed by a coral reef, and the underwater life is rich with sea turtles and many species of tropical fish.

source: http://theculturetrip.com/

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GOLF COURSE

Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort         In Brief Clearwater Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful golf courses in South East Asia. Stretches of greens lined with verdant raintrees undulate around several huge bodies of breathtaking lakes. Experience an exclusive sanctuary of preserved flora and fauna sprawled over 700 acres of tropical vegetation and sparkling lakes. The bountiful raintrees and glistening lakes introduces an invigorating differences to contemporary golfing pleasure. Clearwater Sanctuary is where golf takes a natural course. This 27th hole golf resort certainly introduces an invigorating difference to the contemporary golfing pleasure. The Raintree Nine features an abundance of majestic raintrees that provide a form of hazard for golfers while water hazards are in store at Lakes Nine. The Wetlands Nine is a unique Boutique Par 3 course a suitable venue for those who seek a short and satisfying game. Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort is an ideal perfectly balance getaway. Set amongst the natural habitats of birds, fish and exquisite wildlife, coupled with a scenic lush green environment, which Mother Nature has endowed us, contrasting with urban pleasures, it is indeed a golf resort par excellence. Whether it is for an avid golfing trip, a corporate convention, a romantic rendezvous or a fun filled family getaway, Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort has it all…  one of a kind with life’s pleasures and natural beauty. Location The resort is approximately 200 kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur and just 22 kilometers from the city of Ipoh. Easily accessible via the North South Highway, exit and turn right after the Simpang Pulai Interchange. Drive along Jalan Gopeng until you reach a traffic light and turn left onto an estate road. The Simpang Pulai Police station is visible on the right as you take this turning. Keep on the road until you reach a junction. Make a left turn here and continue driving straight. As you approach the resort, you will see the Batamas Factory on your left. Award: 1.Voted 4th in the Golf Malaysia - Golf Course Poll (1997/1998) 2.Voted 2nd in the Golf Malaysia - Golf Course Poll   (1999/2000)

Golf Course Directory

1. Bukit Jana Golf Club 2. Teluk Intan Golf Course aka Diamond Bay 3. Kinta Golf Club 4. Kuala Kangsar Golf Club 5. Damai Laut Golf & Country Club 6. Royal Perak Golf Club 7. Meru Valley Golf & Country Club 8. Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort 9. Pan Pacific Golf Resort 10. North Briged Golf Club 11. Batang Padang Golf Club 12. Taiping Golf & Country Club

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Malacca Vacation

Malacca Vacation in Malaysia

Visiting Malaysia is not complete without going to the historical state of Malacca. Malacca was founded by Parameswara, a Hindu Prince from the Kingdom of Srivijaya in Sumatra in the year 1403. After he embraced Islam and became the Sultan of Malacca, Malacca became a trading centre with goods from China, India, Middle East, Thailand and neighbouring countries passing through the port of Malacca.

As a result of Melaka's strategic location, the Portuguese conquered it in 1511 followed by the Dutch in 1641 and finallyby the British in 1824. The Japanese was ruling it for a while during World War Two from 1942 to 1945. Malacca gained independence as one of the states of Malaysia on August 31, 1957 Melaka together with Georgetown in Penang have been inscripted as historical cities under Unesco's World Heritage Sites (WHS) in July 2008. The first area is the St. Paul's Hill Civic Zone which consists of the government buildings, the original fortress town built during the time of Portuguese and Dutch occupation, Bukit Cina, museums and churches.

The second area is the Historic Residential and Commercial Zone which consists of more than 600 shophouses, religious buildings, commercial and residential buildings as well as tombs on the four main streets. Explore them..

Places of Attractions

Try taking the trishaw at The Stadthuys

Malacca vacation is not complete without visiting the following attractions. See the historical heritage of Malacca wheremany of the old buildings dated back to the 16th century still stand strong today. See A Famosa,St. Paul's Church, St.Peter's Church, The Stadthuys and Christ Church all of which are within walking distance of one another. Try taking thetrishaw and make sure you take a good picture as you ride as a memento for you to bring home. Not to be missed is the45 minutes cruise along Malacca River and the Maritime Museum.

Finally, try Nyonya Food which is a combinaton of Chinese and Malay ingredients. Not to be forgotten is Portuguese cuisine at Restoran San Pedro and Restoran De Lisbon.

Malacca vacation - A'Famosa

This landmark as shown in the picture above is a must for all visitors to Malacca. Known also as Porta de Santiago, thisfortress was built by Portuguese Admiral Alfonso d'Albuquerque in the year 1511. A big part of it was destroyed during the Dutch invasion and what remains today is just a small section of the fortress left behind by the Portuguese. Malacca vacation is not complete without visiting this ruin.

The admission to this attraction is FREE.

Click here for a more detailed description of this fort.

The Stadthuys

The Stadthuys was built in 1650 as residence of Dutch governors and their officers

The Stadthuys is another major landmark left behind by the Dutch. Used to be white in colour, this building was refurbishedand painted Salmon red colour to match the colour of the surrounding buildings. When completed in 1650, it was used as official residence for Dutch governors and their officers.

Today, this building is used to house the Museum of History and Ethnography.

Opening hours

9am - 5pm (Monday to Friday)
9am - 9pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Admission Fee

RM5 for adult and RM2 for children.

Further information can be obtained by calling +6 06 284 1934.

Christ Church

The distinctive salmon red colour Christ Church, a Dutch architecture heritage

The Christ Church building is located just beside The Stadthuys. Built by the Dutch as a place of worship for the people at that time, you will be able to see interesting design such as the ceiling beams that were constructed withoutany joints, the tombstone with Armenian inscriptions, the handmade pews and brass Bible. Notice also the "Last Supper" of Jesus and His Twelve Disciples shown in glazed tiles.

When the British took over Malacca, the building was converted to become an Anglican church where a bell tower and weathercock were added and remains until today. You can visit this place by getting the permission from the church officials. This building is a must when you plan your Malacca vacation itinerary.

Further information can be obtained by calling +6 06 284 8804.

Malacca vacation - St. Francis Xavier's Church

The huge cathedral of St. Francis Xavier's Church

Built by a Catholic French priest, Rev. Farve in 1849, this Gothic styled church was dedicated to St. Francis Xavier whowas a missionary to South East Asia in the 16th century. St. Francis Xavier had been to Penang Island as well and was known as "The Apostle of the East" for his missionary endeavours in this region. 

You can visit the place by getting the permission from the church officials.

Further information can be obtained by calling +6 06 282 4770.

Malacca vacation - Melaka River Cruise

Your Malacca vacation is not complete without taking a cruise down Malacca River. Costing only RM10 for adult and RM5 forchildren, this 45 minutes tour will take you pass many Dutch style buildings. Remember to take along your camera and takeinteresting pictures of the old shop houses, bridges and Kampung Morten Malay village.

The cruise can be taken at the quay behind the tourist information centre.

Further information can be obtained by calling +6 06 286 5468.

The Malacca River and the surrounding area

Malacca vacation - Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum near the city centre is located along Jalan Quayside. It housed a replica of the Flor de la Mar, aPortuguese ship that sank off the coast of Malacca. The exhibit at this museum showed the history of Malacca from thetime of the Malacca Sultanate to the pre-independence time of Malaysia. You will be able to see models of iron chests,old charts, ships and maps.

The beautiful replica of Flor de la Mar Maritime Museum located along Jalan Quayside

See more pictures and information about this museum here.

Melaka Hotels

There are many international standards hotels in Malacca. Some of the popular Malacca Hotels include The Bayview Hotel Melaka, Equatorial Hotel, Everly Resort, Grand Continental Hotel, Legacy Hotel, Mahkota Hotel Melaka, Renaissance Melaka Hotel and Seri Costa Hotel.

See a more detailed writeup about hotels in Melaka here.

Getting Here

Visitors usually fly to Kuala Lumpur or Penang before going to Melaka. If you are coming from Australia, Cheap flights to Malaysia are offered during promotional period and online bookings in advance. Compare also theCheap Flights available from Australia travel website.

If you are coming from Kuala Lumpur, Melaka is approximately 145 km away and it will take you 2 hours drive to reach here. Regular bus and taxi service are available at Melaka Sentral, a new bus and taxi terminal 6 km away from the city centre.

Further information can be obtained by calling Melaka Sentral terminal at +6 06 288 1321.

Melaka Sentral, the bus and taxi transportation hub of Melaka

Related Links 

Melaka Restaurants 

See the restaurants that you can go to while in Melaka to savour Portuguese, Nyonya or Chinese Chicken Ball Rice cuisine. 

St. Paul's Church

See the ruin of St Paul Church that was built by the Portuguese.

Nightlife In Melaka

Experience the nightlife of Melaka by joining the locals at the night market, visiting Melaka Zoo, A Famosa Cowboy Town..

A Famosa Resort

A Famosa Resort in Melaka is one of the theme park attractions that you should consider going with your entire family. This 520 hectare integrated resort has attractions that will enable you to spend your day from morning till the evening.

Melaka Sentral

This is the main transportation hub in Melaka. You can find taxis and buses to various destination here.

Baba Nyonya

Find out more about Baba Nyonya of Melaka in Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Jonker Street

Visit this popular street, buy some souvenir and taste some of the local delicacies here.

Christ Church

This distinctive landmark was built by the Dutch and is still in use today. 

Melaka Town

There are plenty of activities that you can do while visiting Melaka Town. Shopping, food.. 

SOURCE: http://www.malaysiavacationguide.com/

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Poring Hot Spring

Poring Hot Springs is a must for every visitor who goes to Kinabalu Park. It is about half an hour's drive from Kinabalu Park. You will pass by the town of Kundasang and Ranau on your way here. The local Kadazan people call bamboo "Poring". 

Entrance to the Hot Spring

This place does have lots of bamboo trees. Upon your arrival, you will see a parking area, a reception area and a visitor centre. You can see the bamboo tree as you enter the park as shown in the picture above.

Hot Spring Pool

This hot spring was first developed by the Japanese during World War Two. One is able to see and use the many open air and indoor Japanese style baths facilities. The hot water is channeled from the source where the temperature is hot enough to boil eggs. The temperature of the water can be regulated by mixing it with the cold water which is channeled from the nearby river.

Hot Spring Stream

The hot spring is reputed to be good for health as it contains sulphur which is known for its curative properties for those with skin problems.

The open air type is more crowded and free of charge but the indoor type is for those who want to have time off by themselves. There is a fee charge for the rental of the indoor type based on the number of hours used.

Canopy Walk

Besides the hot spring, one can also explore the popular Canopy Walk. The total distance to complete the circuit is 2 km andthe Canopy Walk makes up about 200 metres of the circuit. Built some 50 m above the ground, one has to be bold and stout hearted to do this walk as the canopy can be shaky and looks flimsy at times. Take heart, these hanging bridges are testedeveryday before they are opened to the public. 

Canopy Walk

For those who stay overnight in Poring Hot Spring, you can do a bit of jungle trekking along the banks of a winding river. After an hour or so walk (shorter path route), you will be able to see a 10m waterfall. The longer path route takes 3 hoursto complete and ends with the view of a 100 m high waterfall.

Accommodation

If you choose to stay overnight at Poring Hot Spring, the facilities include Poring Chalet where a unit can accommodate 6persons. The New Cabin has 2 bedrooms which can accommodate up to 4 persons. For those who come in big groups, there is the Youth Hostel which can house a total of 64 persons.

Reservations can be made at Kinabalu Gold Resort Sdn Bhd.

Tel: +6 088 243629/ +6 088 245472 

Fax: +6 088 242861

Jungle Restaurant is the place where you unwind in the evening. As you dine, you will be able to hear the sound of insectsand the sound of the rushing water in the nearby river. You may be able to see the natural "Christmas Light" when thefire flies come out to feed on the nectar of the tree leaves as night falls. 

source: http://www.malaysiavacationguide.com

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BAKO NATIONAL PARK

Sarawak's oldest national park was established in 1957, covers a modest 27 sq. km., and is about 37km from Kuching. It's known for its extraordinary natural scenery, habitats, plants and wild life.

Its most significant features are secluded coves and rugged rocky headlands with magnificent steep cliffs that overlook the South China Sea.

The sea spray, wave action and the wind have also carved out magnificent sea arches and sea stacks at the base of the cliffs, some rearing above the waves like a mighty serpent's head.

The attractive sandstone formations appear pink with iron patterns on the cliff. Further inland, waterfalls tumble down into freshwater pools in a tranquil and idyllic jungle setting.

Bako contains an incredible variety of plant species and vegetation types, and this is one of the parks great attractions. At Bako it is possible to see almost every type of vegetation found in Borneo.

Bako is also home to approximately 275 rare proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo. The best times for seeing wildlife at Bako are just after dawn and just before dusk, when the animals are at their most active. Bako is a fascinating place for bird watching, as over 150 species have been recorded here.

Bakos extensive trail system is .....READ MORE

Source: http://www.tourism.gov.my

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Malaysia Hostels

Budget Accommodation for Backpackers

There are many Malaysia Hostels with price that is affordable that you can book online from HostelBookers. 

Comprised of two regions – Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo – Malaysia offers adventure, tropical climates, a vibrant capital city and unique culture to travelers on a budget.

Low cost accommodation can be found throughout the country and backpackers can take advantage of top quality Malaysia hostels not only in the cities but also throughout the sought-after beaches and rainforest destinations. 

Equator Hostel, Kuala Lumpur

Strategically located next to the Berjaya Times Square, Chinatown and Jalan Bukit Bintang, this hostel in Kuala Lumpur makes a great base and starting point for those arriving in Malaysia and the capital city for the first time. Spacious and laid back, the atmosphere offers a great place to meet other travelers, recover from a long flight, surf the net and plan an itinerary or get out and explore the buzzing energy of this modern city. 

Matahari Lodge, Kuala Lumpur

Brand new and located in the hub of activities, this is another Malaysia hostels that is within walking distance of all the attractions, restaurants, shopping and public transport. The staff are excellent and can help plan any stay, whether it be 24 hours in the city or a month in other Malaysian destinations. A good night’s sleep is a must after a long journey, and the rooms here are private, clean, and comfortable.

Hutton Lodge, Penang

Walk the Heritage Trail of Penang, which contributes much to George Town’s listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and take in this unique architectural and cultural townscape without parallel anywhere in Southeast Asia. At the end of the day, head back to your Hostels in Penang , a unique colonial-style guesthouse in the city center. The garden terrace is a great place to relax and all rooms are bright, spacious and clean.

Akinabalu Youth Hostel, Kota Kinabalu

Facing the South China Sea with Mount Kinabalu looming in the background, Kota Kinabalu is an ideal costal location. With no trip to Malaysia complete without traveling to Borneo, a stay at the Akinabalu Youth Hostel also offers easy access to the beaches and rainforests; a tour and travel desk is handily on site. And if you’re not a fan of the heat (although the hostel helpfully provides both fans and air-con), try snorkeling and a variety of affordable water sports at the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. 

 


Heading On

One of the great features of backpacking around Malaysia is the ever-present possibility of extending your trip into other countries within Southeast Asia!

Few cities offer such an action-packed travel experience as Bangkok. With the Khao San Road to the fore (and plenty of Bangkok hostels , it’s a backpackers’ paradise! Over in Vietnam, the largest city is an intriguing mixture of impressive modern buildings sitting alongside scruffy street markets and Ho Chi Minh City hostels in one bustling, vibrant urban spectacle. Alternatively, for a budget stay in Singapore, Singapore hosteloffers an excellent selection of great value accommodation so you can save your money for a shopping sprees. 

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Berjaya Times Square

Shopping At Berjaya Times Square

Berjaya Times Square Kuala Lumpur is located at Jalan Imbi, one of the most busy shopping area in the city. You will not miss this place as its brown colour building stands up from among the rest of the buildings in the vicinity. It is Malaysia's biggest shopping mall with over 3.45 million square feet that houses more than 1,000 retail lots. There are 700 specialty retail shops, 1,200 luxury service suites and 45 food outlets that give you plenty of choice to choose from. An estimated 3 million visitors visited this mall every month.

Being one of the biggest mall means that you will be able to find top brands such as Swatch, Hush Puppies, The Body Shop, Tag Heuer, Dior, DeGems, Bossini and the list goes on. It has the biggest Borders bookstore in town where many latest books and titles can be found here. Metrojaya Departmental Store and Cold Storage Supermarket are also located here. The bowling centre called Superbowl is equipped with the latest facilities for bowlers to spend their day here.

The spacious shopping area in Berjaya Times Square

Cosmo's World Theme Park

If you and your children need some time off for entertainment, try the Cosmo's World Theme Park. It is the largest indoor theme park in Malaysia. There is one area for the adult and one area for children. If you are still young at heart, try the roller coaster ride or the 30 meter "Spinning Orbit". The children will enjoy the children's rides as well as the indoor playground that is available inside the theme park.

The entrance to the theme park

The rides in the theme park

IMAX 2D & 3D Theatres

If you need to unwind after a long day's shopping, try the IMAX 2D & 3D Theatre. It is Malaysia's first and you will experience the big screen images with clarity. The giant rectangular screens are up to 7 stories high.

There is also Golden Screen Cinemas which has 9 screen cineplex that screens the latest blockbuster movies for your leisure.

The IMAX 2D & 3D Theatres

Getting Here

Take the Kuala Lumpur Monorail to Imbi Station. Imbi Station is located in front of the building. If you are using the LRT, take the STAR LRT to Hang Tuah station and you will reach the mall after a 5 minutes walk. 

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Kuala Lumpur Tower

 

History of Kuala Lumpur Tower

Kuala Lumpur tower or Menara Kuala Lumpur's construction began in 1991 and was completed in 1995. It was officially opened by former Prime Minister of Malaysia Tun Dr. Mahathir on 1 October 1996. It is used for telecommunication purposes and features an antenna that reaches a total height of 421 metres (1,381 ft). It now stands as the fifth tallest tower in the world.

The tallest tower in the world is the 553 m CN Tower in Canada followed by the 537 m Ostankino Tower in Russia. Third is the 468 m Oriental Pearl Tower in China and fourth is the just completed 435 m Borj-e Milad tower in Iran.

Once up the tower, you will be able to see the beautiful scenery of Kuala Lumpur. There are paid binoculars that are located on each section of the tower. However, it is always better to bring your own binocular as the paid binoculars can be quite crowded at certain time of the day. If you do not have your own binocular, ensure that you bring enough coins to be used for using the binoculars.

The tower is opened daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm. Last admission to the tower is at 9:30pm.

The 421 metres Kuala Lumpur Tower

Revolving Restaurant

There is a restaurant called Seri Angkasa Revolving Restaurant where you can dine and enjoy the beautiful scenery and glittering lights of the city of Kuala Lumpur. Make sure you call up to make reservation as this restaurant is packed most of the time.

Watch the colourful cultural performances from Thursdays to Sundays at 11:30am and 4:00pm.

Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve

While you are here, remember to take a walk at the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve and enjoy the oldest forest reserve in the city. There are jogging tracks, open-air gymnasium, birds and a fantastic view of the city from this park. Guided tour at regular interval is provided but remember to bring along your towel as it can be quite humid and hot in the afternoon.

Getting To KL Tower

The tower is located at Jalan Puncak. You can take the KL Monorail to Bukit Nanas station where you can take a 10 minutes walk to the main gate at Jalan Puncak. From here, the free shuttle service at an interval of 15 minutes is available from 9:00am to 6:00pm for you to reach the tower. After 6:00pm, it is better to take a taxi to the tower.

The entrance fees are:

Malaysians

Adult RM8
Children(4-12 years old) RM3
Senior citizens(55 years and above) RM6

Non-Malaysians

Adult RM20
Children(4-12 years old) RM10
Senior citizens(55 years and above) RM17 

Further enquiry can be obtained by calling the tower hotline at:

Tel: +603 2020 5444 

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