TITI ECO FARM

Titi Eco Farm Resort is located about 1000 feet above sea level, where the air is cooler, fresher and cleaner. It is surrounded by hills and lush greenery and its mountain scenery is simply breathtaking. It is definitely an ideal countryside retreat to relax and unwind yourself, free from the hustle and bustle of city life. The eco farm covers an areas of 40 acres with organic vegetables farm, fruits garden, herbs garden, fishponds, poultry farm and recreational area.

The organic movement or sustainable agricultural movement is spreading rapidly worldwide both for health and environmental reasons. In Malaysia, at Titi Eco Farm Resort offers the opportunity to be part of this worldwide trend in consuming organic vegetables and fruits, where they grow crops completely free of chemicals pesticides and chemical fertilizers.

They put emphasis on building up fertile soil at the same time maintaining a healthy and harmonious environment, by making compost and organic fertilizers within the farm to ensure that vegetables and fruits are of the highest quality. Crop rotation, mixed planting and use predators for natural pest and disease control.

Price List

Long House

http://www.titieco.com.my/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=83&Itemid=214

Energy Garden / Semi D Chalet

http://www.titieco.com.my/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=84&Itemid=215

* Unquoted days requires a min of 40 pax and price includes activities

Activities

Facilities

There are Multipurpose Hall that fit 120 people, installed with Theater Audio System capable for meetings and functions. A Canteen which fits 120+ people. We also have a Mini Shop that sells our products and fresh vegetables, fruits directly from the farm. Children Playground with seesaw, slides. Kiosk for chatting, relax, or play chess. Most importantly a gift from the mother nature, an open Grass Field

Bookings

6 easy steps to book your holiday at Titi Eco Farm. See also the terms & condition for tourist.

Step 1

Choose your holiday package at Holiday package page.

Step 2

Select your favorite room type at Accommodationpage.

Step 3

Decide your holiday date and check for the price at Price Calendar based on room type you have chosen.

Step 4

Make full payment by bank in or online transfer to our Public Bank Account PBB 3063663813 or Maybank Account MBB 514301127755 five days before your trip.

Step 5

Fax +603 7873 8191 or email us info@titieco.com.my a copy of your bank-in slip with your name and contact number (important!).

Step 6

Welcome and enjoy your holiday at Titi Eco Farm~

Terms & Condition

Every tourist that joins Titi Eco Farm Resort 2 Days 1 Night or One Day trip program is deemed to have read, understoond and accepted the following terms and conditions:

1. There will be a surcharge for extra bed to be added. Please refer to 2 Days 1 Night Farm Stay Rate for the year 2012 for detailed room rates.

2. Meals are based on fruits and vegetables that are harvested in our organic farm on that day. We do not provide fixed menus to tourist.

3. No refund or reduction will be made for non-utilisation of any item or service included in the tour fare for any reason whatsoever.

4. Tourists must fill up correctly a personal data form during reservation, which includes the name (same as on MyKad), MyKad no., MyKid no. or birth certificate to us.

5. Deposit of RM50 per person must be paid upon reservation and the balance of booking fees must be paid up between 5 days prior to the date of departure. No refund will be made for cancellation of trip for any reason whatsoever.

6. All payments are based on cash term. Please bank in to our Public Bank Account PBB 3063663813 or Maybank Account MBB 514301127755. After banking in, please fax us a copy of the bank-in slip showing the booking date, name and contact number of the booking person on it. Fax no. +603 7873 8191

7. We are not responsible for any lost of luggage or personal items or individual accident at our resort.

Getting there

Email info@titieco.com.my or call +603 7874 8122

Singapore sales agent Miss Jess +652 9848 9840 or email jess787@gmail.com

Borneo Highlands Resort

Set against 5,000 acres of lush greens, surrounded by pristine jungles of Borneo’s exotic rainforest, Borneo Highlands Resort has all the essential elements of a getaway retreat.Unwind, renew and rejuvenate with a carefully selected range of enjoyable retreats, tailored exclusively for you to take care of your inner self while we take care of the rest.Here at the Resort, your exclusivity and privacy is our utmost priority. With the number of guests kept to just 60 a day, you almost have the entire resort to yourself.Let us to pamper you during your stay with our homely Sarawakian hospitality and personalised service. May we make your retreat one of luxurious comfort and most importantly, unforgetable.
****This is a one star resort...... but its charging at a premium for there rooms....****
Other than that the weather is great.....
There is a taiwan monk temple that is located near the resort. When you're there you may inform front desk that you would like to go there.
However, the temple is under a different management, you will need to call one of the monks or get assistance from the front desk to transport you there.
I was told that monk will only reply to your call or sms after prayer time or resting period.Here is the contact number and name. Siew Ching - 016-886 4008.

What is free in Kuching?

1. Visit to the Museums - Admission FREE

These including the

Sarawak Museum,

Chinese Museum (at Waterfront Kuching),

Islamic Museum,

http://www.museum.sarawak.gov.my/indexeng.htm

Textile Museum

http://www.museum.sarawak.gov.my/textilemu.htm

2. Visit to the Cat Museum (not real cat) - also FREE

The location is inside the City North City Hall.

http://www.dbku.gov.my/catmuseum.htm

3. The City Tower - Civic Centre (Admmission FREE)

Open for public up to 6pm everyday. You can view the whole Kuching, including the mountains and Islands at the South China Sea. A good place to view sun set.

http://www.kuching.net.my/destinations2.asp?destination= 'Civic+Centre'

There is a pub & Chinese restaurant up there called The Link.

http://www.links-entertainment.com.my/index.htm

4. Visit to the Islamic Information Centre (NEW)

To learn more about Islamic history in Sarawak.

http://www.sarawakiic.org.my

5. Visit to the Weekend Market (Sat afternoon & Sun morning)

This is a colourful market with all sort of vege, local products, orchids, cakes, fruits and also some books and t-shirts.

Location is at the Satok area.

http://www.kuching.net.my/destinations2.asp?destination= 'Sunday+Market'

6. Stroll around the Main Bazaar, waterfront and also carpenter Street.

Lot of things to see here, window shopping and relax at the waterfront. See the lifestyle. FREE.

7. Chinese Temples along Carpenter Street and Tuan Pek Kong next to Hilton Hotel

There are several Chinese Temples along Carpenter street and also Wayang Street such as Kong an Si Temple and Tua Pek Kong.

On top of the Hainan Assoication there is another one, go up the stairs, you will find a nice temple there too.

Can go in have a look and take photos, they are FREE. See how the locals burn the paper money.

8. Meditation with the Monks at Borneo Highlands

Up at the Borneo Highlands Resort, there is a Buddhism Temple run by some monks from Taiwan. You can apply and stay with them for weeks and they will provide you FREE vegetarian food and accommodation. However, you need to follow their program and meditation. One hour drive from Kuching.http://www.borneohighlands.com.my

9. Walk in the parks

There are a few nice green parks in Kuching and all are free for public. Reservoir Park, Freindship Park, Botanical Garden (next to Museum).

10. Visit to the Layer cake Factory

Cross the river by sampan (50 cents) and go into the Village Boyan, that is another interesting part of Kuching and see the Malay houses and lifestyle. Visit the Layer cake factory - you can see the products and try some of the cakes for FREE.

11. Visit to the pottery factory

The factories are not in the city center, 5 miles away. You can visit the factory and play with the clay and make your own pots. Try and play- FREE.

(get permission first)

12. Visitors' information centre

of course, you can get flyers and info on Kuching from the information centre for free. One at the arrival hall in Kuching International airport, and another one is inside the Old Court House (end of Kuching Waterfront).

13. Visit to Fort Magherita

This is a beautiful Fort, It is built in 1879 to guard Kuching’s river approaches from pirates.

http://www.kuching.net.my/destinations2.asp?destination= 'Fort+Margherita'

It is FREE. Take a sampan across only 50 cents per way.

14. Visit to Timber Museum

The museum is situated in the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Council building (Wisma Sumber Alam) in Petra Jaya. Anyone with interest in forestry, traditional wood items, forest products and the development of the timber industry should head here.

http://www.sarawaktimber.org.my

15. Pua Kumbu Museum (Iban Weaving)

Visitors are required to make prior arrangements or appointments to visit the Museum and Gallery. Photo taking without flash are allowed only in the Weaving Gallery but not in the other galleries.

http://www.tunjugahfoundation.org.my/textile.php

16. Window shopping in a Shopping Mall

Go to the new Malls in Kuching, such as The Spring

http://www.thespring.com.my

17. Food and Drink

If you visit Kuching during the festive seasons, such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year or Gawai Festival

You may able to visit someone house and get free food and drink, even they do not know you.

Kuching

Kuching is the capital and largest city of the East Malaysian state of Sarawak and the district of Kuching, as well as the largest city on the island of Borneo.

Going there by Plane
Kuching International Airport (IATA : KCH) is Sarawak's main gateway. There are near-hourly connections to Kuala Lumpur as well as frequent flights to Singapore, Johor Bahru, Labuan, Kota Kinabalu and other cities in Sarawak like Sibu, Bintulu and Miri. MASwings links Kuching with Mukah.

International connections are rather limited, although there are a few weekly services to Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Pontianak. Flights to Kuching are also operated by AirAsia and Firefly. International airlines operating in Kuching includes SilkAir, Royal Brunei, Tiger Airways, and Batavia Air.The airport underwent a major facelift in 2005-2006 and is now modern and pleasant. When checking in, note that all flights outside Sarawak are considered "international", even if you're only going elsewhere in Malaysia.

A restaurant is on ground floor at the far end at the right, 'OldTown White Coffee' kopitiam restaurant at the other far end at the left and a McDonald's outlet beside the escalators. There is also a KFC outlet and a Starbucks outlet on the 2nd floor (departure level), left of the departure gates.

Getting there/away:
Kuching city is about 20 min away by taxi, a fixed RM26 from the taxi coupon stand just outside arrivals. Ignore the touts, even if they show you price lists. From the city you can get a private vehicle for around RM20 or catch a mini bus (RM7.99 for Tune guests); RM10 for others. must be booked at least 1 day in advance leaving hourly from 8:30AM-evening.

The Sarawak Transport Company (STC) Bus No. 12A no longer serves the 5 daily trips between the airport and the city centre. There is a series of other buses which can drop you off or pick you up approximately 1 KM west of the Airport (turn left as you exit the airport and walk to the main T intersection, turn left again and walk until you reach the big roundabout and catch a bus heading north to town namely 3A, 6, 8G and 9. The most convenient place to catch these buses back to the airport intersection is at the main bus terminal located in the city.Moving Around

By bus

The old bus company 'Chin Lian Long' has been taken over by City Public Link. You wouldn't miss it because it is bright green and you notice it frequently plying around Kuching city. The old rickety stage buses has been wiped out by the government in 2009. With these new buses, traveling around Kuching city has become more comfortable now. Perhaps, the only downside would be the waiting time for a bus. Frequency is about 30 mins and the fare ranges from RM1.80 to RM2.30 depends on the number of stops you are taking and you paid on the bus.
Nonetheless, the stage buses between Kuching and its outskirts like Petra Jaya, Serian, Bau and so forth, has not been replaced with new buses.

The main bus terminal in Kuching is located opposite the Old Mosque near the old city center. All the buses listed below leaves from here.

However, there is another bus terminal for inter-state departure which is located at 3rd Mile Bus Terminal. You should take your bus to Sibu, Bintulu and Miri from this terminal. Check BUS ASIA for online booking.

Local stage buses are run by 4 companies of colourful assortments, but there's a reasonably logical route numbering system and bus stops usually have some signage indicating bus route numbers.

Sarawak Transport Company (STC) - these green and beige STC buses mainly serve downtown and along the protocol roads leading southbound out of the city centre.

Matang Transport Company (MTC) - these orange and beige MTC buses serve the Kuching-Matang road and suburban settlements along the northern bank of the Sarawak River. This company is the only one not included in the Kuching City Bus Services consortium.

Petra Jaya Transport - these white buses with red, yellow and black striped livery serve the outskirts of Kuching City North (routes ending at Damai and Bako) and also the Kuching-Kota Sentosa-Kota Samarahan route.

Bau Transport Company - these brown and red buses serve the Kuching-Bau route.
Bus drivers and conductors do not actually have Public Relations and Tourist Guiding as part of their training syllabi. Should the bus conductor exist, kindly demand for the ticket because some bus inspectors might just walk inside and do a surprise inspection of passengers' tickets. There are some OMO (One Man Operation) buses that are equipped with a big coin box beside the driver's seat. Ask for the fare first before inserting the exact change into the box. Sit in the front half of the bus so you have easy access to the driver or conductor.

Cheating, pickpocketing and sexual harrassment might sometimes occur in public buses, so be watchful of your surroundings.
Inconsistent passenger load along certain routes can lead to drops in frequency and thus, bus operators cannot comply to a fixed timetable and that results in frustrating delays.

By shuttle van
Caution-Van sapu
Unlicensed shuttle vans also ply the main roads in Kuching, offering lower (if not the same) fares than their legal counterparts. If you are coaxed to board these vans, please do so at your own risk. Due to its illegal operations, van sapu passengers are not covered by insurance should an accident occur.

Yellow roofed kereta sewa or shuttle vans fill the void left by stage bus operators, offering somewhat more frequent trips throughout Kuching to as far as Tebedu and Bau. Each shuttle van has their own commuting routes so watch out the routes by reading the destination on the body of the van. Minimum fare for each trip is RM1 and increases with respect to distance. Fares also differ from one shuttle van to another plying the same route by commuting frequency, peak and off-peak periods and passenger load. If in doubt, ask the passengers, not the driver.

By taxi
Taxis are somewhat expensive in Kuching. Although taxis are metered, the drivers seldom use it and normally they will try to charge you any fare they like. They may also hide the meter behind a rudimentary cover and claim to have no meter. Take your time an appraise the honesty of the driver before proceeding. A reasonable taxi fare from Kuching city centre to Santubong is RM42. Some hotels provide their own shuttle vans or buses to designated tourism spots and city centre. Check with your hotel should they provide this kind of service.

By car
All major roads in Kuching city and suburban areas are well tarred and fairly maintained. Driving orientation is on the left and is generally slow-paced. Speed limits on dual-carriageway roads can reach a maximum of 90 km/h and can be reduced to 80km/h or 70 km/h during festival seasons.

Tourists from cosmopolitan cities may not appreciate the driving attitude of local road users. Some drivers tend to make a turn or overtake without using indicators, and others drive beyond the speed limit. You may also find a handful of road hoggers (cars, lorries and even motorcycles alike). Honk car horns and flash high beams with careful discretion.

Self-driving in and around Kuching can be challengingly fun. Directional signs in Kuching are so inadequate and it takes a good road map and a good sense of direction to get you around.

Car rental
Kuching City Car Rental (Kuching Car Rental), Ground Floor, Terminal Building, Kuching International Airport (Walk up towards the domestic arrival hall exit), ☎ +60128838318 (auto@catscity.com.my).

Car Rental Kuching (Car Rental Kuching), (Opposite of the domestic hall exit area), ☎ +60 16 8621613 (kelvin@carrentalkuching.com), [7] . From RM95/day, accept visa/master card.

Sime Darby Rent A Car (Hertz Malaysia Licensee), GL20, Ground Floor, Terminal Building, Kuching International Airport (Booth is after you claim your luggage at the airport), ☎ +60 82 450740 (kch@hertz.simedarby.com, fax: +60 82 450741). M-Sa 8AM-6PM, Sun and public holidays meet confirmed reservations. From RM150/day, credit/charge cards only.

Kuching Car Rental (Kereta Sewa Kuching), AJ 205, 1st Floor, MJC Batu Kawah New Township, Jl. Batu Kawa, ☎ +60 82 376 030, +60 82 455 022, +60 16 888 4020 (reservation@kuchingcarrental.com, fax: +60 82 455 422), [8] . M-Su, 8AM-9PM, Call to confirm reservation or book online. From RM98/day, credit/charge cards only.

Fairuz Car Rental Kuching, Desa Ilmu Apartment, Desa Ilmu, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak., ☎ +60 13 564 0191 (admin at fairuzcarrental.com), [9] . M-Su, 8AM-9PM, Book online and contact by email or SMS. From RM70/day, cash only.

By motorcycle
Three Bikes Rental and Services. Singgahsana Lodge No.1 Temple St. ☎ +60 82 429277. threebikesrental@yahoo.com

Teck Hua Motor. Motorbike rental at RM40, good service, they also have a few automatics for those who can't drive manual. Tabuan Rd. ☎ +60 82 233957

By bicycle
There is definitely no better way to see the sights of Kuching City than by bicycle. You don't have to be Lance Armstrong to take a full day bicycle tour of the city. Roads in Kuching are adequate for moving around by bicycle. Bicycling is a healthy and budget conscious way to explore the city and it enables you to explore and see things you simply cannot achieve by walking or taking the bus.

Borneo Bicycle Hire, ☎ +60 19 484 4393 (24 hr contact) (borneobicyclehire@ymail.com). 9AM-7PM every day including public holidays. They provide helmets, rain ponchos, repair kit and maps for doing a city tour by bicycles. Rates are very reasonably priced and they have a station in Tun Jugah Mall. If you prefer to start cycling early just after dawn you can rent or hire the bike the night before and bring the bicycle with you, the rental rates only starts in the morning when you begin your cycle tour. Should the hirer prefer another town as their centre for further exploration, they can be taken there, together with their bicycles, in a mini-bus for an additional charge. Full accident/repatriation insurance available from only RM15. However there are stamp duties as well.

By river taxi
Tambangs or river taxis provide easy and cheap transport across the Sarawak River in the heart of Kuching.

For a leisurely commute across the Sarawak River, river taxis locally known as tambang or penambang offers daily services at various points along the Kuching Waterfront, with a one-way fare at RM0.40. The fare hikes up to RM1 from 10PM-6AM the next day. Kindly place the exact change on the designated plate instead of giving it to the operator, as you disembark the river taxi at your destination.

By boats
Boats are sometimes available for visitors who wish to travel from one place to another along the Sarawak River.

By speedboats
Speedboats are available for people who wish to go to Taman Negara Bako, Satang Island and Talang-Talang Island from Santubong. Rate differs according to hotels, and in regards to public holidays and peak hours. Check schedule and rates at the respective hotels, such as Damai Lagoon.

On foot
Kuching is unusually pedestrian-friendly for a Malaysian city, with tree-lined sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, and the city core is compact enough to cover on foot. Good walks include the Kuching Waterfront and the pedestrian shopping street of Jalan India (Kuching's Little India).

Check Out
Sunday Market (Pasar Minggu), Jl. Satok in Satok. The Sunday Market comes alive beginning Saturday afternoon and runs until Sunday afternoon. The market is so huge that it might break your legs to walk to every corner of this market. It is divided into many sections such as food, fruits, vegetables, fishes (salted terubok fish is sold here), potted plants, jungle produce, including wild honey, pets, bundle clothing, magazines and even toys. The market is like a huge hypermarket, without air-conditioning. Some word of advice, wear shoes when you are entering fish and chicken areas. Those areas are wet in nature and the traders might not be ashamed to splash some water to your feet. It is open almost every weekend. However, during big celebrations like Gawai, Chinese New Year or Hari Raya, some stalls at Pasar Minggu are closed. The Pasar Tamu however, which is part of the market with a permanent roofed structure, operates on a daily basis.

Gold Coast Visitors Guide

Download your Gold Coast Travel guide at www.visitgoldcoast.com/travel-guide/

Penang

Feng Shui Harmony... The Blue Mansion that represent Penang.....

Penang is an island off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is also the name of the Malaysian state which is made up of Penang Island and the facing strip of territory on the mainland called Seberang Perai (formerly Province Wellesley).

Penang's beaches are nice, though a little lackluster when compared to those in some other Malaysian states, but this is more than compensated for by the island's rich multicultural history which is full of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences. Penang is also well known for being the "food paradise" of Malaysia.

Get there

By plane

Recently refurbished Penang Bayan Lepas International Airport (IATA : PEN) is one of Malaysia's larger and better-equipped airports, operated by Malaysia Airports.

The airport is on the southeastern coast of the island, some 30 min from Georgetown. Take Rapid Penang bus no. 401E from the terminal building to KOMTAR (first bus 5:30AM last bus 11:35PM, every 30 min; fare 2.70 RM), ☎ +60 4 6434411

The airport is serviced by Air Asia, Firefly, Cathay Pacific Airway, SilkAir, Jetstar Airways, Tiger Airways, Thai Airways and Malaysia Airlines.

Move around

By bus

RapidPenang, the local bus service, features new buses. All bus stations and bus stops which are serviced by the RapidPenang buses are labeled with proper signboards to ensure user-friendliness. Buses are somewhat frequent on the main artery to Batu Ferringhi. Rapid Penang bus 101 bound for Teluk Bahang goes through midtown Pulau Tikus, (northwest end of) Gurney Drive, Tanjung Tokong, Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi and terminates at the Penang National Park entrance. Avoid so-called 'minibuses' because they usually go as far as Tanjung Bungah and can be poorly maintained.

Rapid Penang bus 203 and 204 to Air Itam (RM1.50 adult) departs westward on Lebuh Chulia (the main backpacker hotel road) or southbound from the KOMTAR building are handy for visiting both Kek Lok Si Temple and Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera) Funiciular Base Station, approximately 30mins south west of the city center. The driver will inform you of when to alight. Bus 204 departs from the funicular base station to return to Komtar and onward.

The main hub for buses in Georgetown is KOMTAR, the tallest building in town. The secondary hub is located at the Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay) ferry terminal. All buses depart from the ferry terminal will stopover at KOMTAR, but downtown-bound buses destined for KOMTAR may not go all the way to the ferry terminal; ask the bus operator. There is a new long-distance bus terminal at Sungai Nibong, refer to by bus entry.

Municipal Council of Penang Island provides a free shuttle bus service in Georgetown which runs approximately between the Pengkalan Weld ferry terminal and KOMTAR every 20 min daily 6AM-12am, (including Sundays & public holidays). Visit for more details.

Also, foreigners can purchase a Rapid Passport for only RM30 and enjoy a week of unlimited travel onboard all rapid Penang buses.

Buy

Outdoor markets

Flea Market at Lorong Kulit.

Pasar Malam (Night Market), (along Batu Ferringhi). 8PM-12midnight.

Little Penang Street Market (showcasing Penang's creativity and heritage, combining stalls with performances) happens on the last Sunday of every month, (at Upper Penang Rd, near the E&O Hotel). 10AM-5PM.

Bakeries

Penang is famous throughout the country for its Chinese bakeries. For ethnic Chinese tourists from Singapore or elsewhere in Malaysia, a visit to one of these bakeries is a must, and friends and office colleagues would generally be expecting some pastries as souvenirs from someone returning from a trip to Penang.

Ghee Hiang(义香), 95 Beach St, ☎ +60 4 262-0635, Fax:+60 4 263-5158. 216 Macalister Rd, ☎ +60 4 227-2222, Fax:+60 4 227-2522 info@ghee-hiang.com The oldest bakery in Penang, established since 1856; other well-known product includes sesame seed oil.

Him Heang (馨香), 162-A Burma Rd ☎ +60 4 228-6129, +60 4 228-6130. Arguably the most famous Chinese bakery in Penang, popular among locals and Singaporean tourists. Its most famous products are Tambun Pneah and Beh Teh Sor. Go early in the morning or order through phone first due to limited daily production.

Ng Kee Cake Shop (伍记), 61 Cintra Street, ☎ +60 4 261-2229. The shop produces and sells Cantonese traditional biscuits including wedding biscuits. One of the famous biscuits is pepper biscuit (咸切酥, Ham Chit Soo).

Sin Hock Seng (新福成), 316, Penang Rd, ☎ +60 4 263-2667. The shop sells more than one hundred different types of biscuit. Basically, you can find any kind of traditional biscuit there.

'Heap Hoe Hin {協和興}, 6743, Jl Raja Uda, Butterworth. ☎ +60 4 3239812. The shop sells more than 450 kinds of biscuits. Open since 1949.

Penang cuisine

If you've been travelling in Singapore or elsewhere in Malaysia, you'll see some familiar names, but don't be fooled: Penang laksa or hokkien mee are quite different from what you'd get in, say, Kuala Lumpur.

Topping the list are:

Mee Sotong - at the Kota Selera Hawker Center in Padang Kota Lama (Fort Cornwallis) for nearly 30 years.

Assam Laksa - Famous assam laksa include Air Itam market, Gottlieb Road, Gurney Drive, etc.

Penang Char Koay Teow (炒馃条) - at Lorong Selamat but it costs at least RM5 per plate and that only if you have the patience of a saint to wait for it. Another choice is Ah Leng Char Koay Teow and the Char Koay Teow in Bukit Emas Restaurant, Seberang Perai.

Penang Nasi Kandar - at Nasi Kandar Line Clear in Penang Road , Restoran Kapitan at Chulia Street and Kayu Nasi Kandar in the Bayan Lepas area.

Hokkien Mee -

Koay Teow Th'ng - at Hutton Lane and a couple of shops opposite Tandoori House are a good choices for this dish. You can also get good KTT at Gurney Drive, though at higher prices.

Lobak, or Lorbak - at Gurney Drive's hawker center and New World Park.

Penang Sar Hor Fun (炒河粉) - at fishing village of Teluk Bahang in the north, or go to Batu Maung / Teluk Kumbar in the south for fresh fare at local prices. You can also get good seafood at Batu Ferringhi beach.

Or Chen (Oyster Omelette) - at Gurney Drive is a tourist-friendly place to get an oyster omelette. It is next to the Gurney Plaza shopping center and a stone's throw away from G Hotel. Expect to queue for ten to fifteen minutes; the price ranges from RM 8 to RM 16 depending on the portion you are ordering.

Pasembor (Indian mixed fruits) - Prices range from RM 5 to RM 20, depending on the ingredients you want on your pasembor. Available at the food center at Gurney Drive.

Lor Mee (Noodles) - found on the road called "Lebuh Presgrave" in town. There is a little link house converted to a restaurant that serves them. Lor mee are commonly served with shreds of chicken breast and some pork slices. Prices range from RM 3 to RM 6.

Nutmeg, (豆蔻) products - In traditional medicine, nutmeg oil or balm were used for illnesses related to the nervous and digestive systems. Preserved nutmeg strips either in dry or wet form are used as the snack by locals.

Desserts include:

Kaya - at a little coffee shop at the end of Madras Lane. To impress the locals, order some kaya toast and dip it in some half-boiled egg.

Coconut tart - at Cintra Lane.

Cendol - the best is at Penang Road.

Durian Fruit - The medium durian will cost RM8-15. Stalls are usually located by the roadside next to durian plantations, along the road from Teluk Bahang (almoust end station of bus 101) to Balik Pulau (end station of bus 401E or 401), and along the road from Air Itam to Relau. Within Georgetown, there is one at Jalan Anson, opposite Jl Dunlop, and another along Jl Macalister.

And wash it all down with some...

Teh Tarik - along Penang Road in the evening.

Top 10 hostels for budget holidays

#1. HI BAAN DINSO HOSTEL; BANGKOK, THAILAND
A boutique hostel with only nine rooms for accommodation. The hostel is quaintly decorated with 1950’s Thai house style and features all amenities found in standard hotels.
WE LIKE: Everyday American and Continental breakfasts at the front porch of the house.

#2. SHIN-OSAKA YOUTH HOSTEL; OSAKA, JAPAN
One can expect a squeaky clean hostel here with cleanliness ranked at a high of 96%. The level of friendliness of staff was also very high at 95%.
WE LIKE: The hostel serves free coffee & tea every night!

#2. SHIN-OSAKA YOUTH HOSTEL; OSAKA, JAPAN
Getting around Osaka will be easy when you're staying at this hostel which is 5-minute walk from the nearest train station (Shinkansen-Station).
Overall rating: 94.3%

#3. SYDNEY HARBOUR HOSTEL; SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
The new hostel boasts of gob-smacking views across Sydney Harbour.
WE LIKE: On-site grocery store is a winner!

#3. SYDNEY HARBOUR HOSTEL; SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
The only budget accommodation in the heart of Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct. Walking distance to Sydney’s iconic Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour and some of the best museums in Sydney, it is no wonder why it was rated the highest for the location factor (98%).
Overall rating: 93.9%

#4. PEKING INTERNATIONAL YOUTH HOSTEL; BEIJING, CHINA
The hostel has carefully preserved the originally traditional Si-He style courtyard house, and is nestled in the designated historic landmark Hu-Tong neighborhood preserved and protected by the Beijing government.
WE LIKE: It's gorgeous courtyard!

#4. PEKING INTERNATIONAL YOUTH HOSTEL; BEIJING, CHINA
Located in the heart of Beijing's historic core, it is a 5-minute walk to the Forbidden City, Tian'anmen Square, and the famous Wangfujin shopping district. The interior has a traditional touch with modern amenities.
Overall rating: 92.5%

#5. HANGOUT@MT.EMILY; SINGAPORE
The hostel sits on a hill. You can enjoy the views of Mount Emily Park and the city from the patio or the lookout terrace.
WE LIKE: Standing shower pool. Tiny, but it's a facility not many hostels have.

#5. HANGOUT@MT.EMILY; SINGAPORE
The interior of this boutique hostel is designed with a chic and energetic vibe. Two highest performing factors were staff friendliness (94%) and service efficiency (93%).
Overall rating: 91.3%

#6. UTANO YOUTH HOSTEL; KYOTO, JAPAN
The facilitiy has two big Japanese baths (seen here) for males and females, four shower rooms, self-catering kitchen, washing machines and dryers, free Wi-Fi, rental bicycles, tennis court, barbecue pit and gardens.
WE LIKE: The ryokan-styled guesthouse. You have to stay in one of these when you're in Japan - what's more you get the full cultural experience for less.

#6. UTANO YOUTH HOSTEL; KYOTO, JAPAN
Located in a quiet residential district, it is no wonder that the hostel scored high for comfort (95%).
Overall rating: 90.1%

#7. SEOUL INTERNATIONAL YOUTH HOSTEL; SEOUL, KOREA
Facilities include self-catering kitchen, laundry, rock-climbing site and single track stroll path.
WE LIKE: It has to be the rock-climbing wall!

#7. SEOUL INTERNATIONAL YOUTH HOSTEL; SEOUL, KOREA
This hostel did well with cleanliness (94%) and efficiency of staff (91%).
Overall rating: 89.1%

#8. BEIJING HEYUAN INTERNATIONAL YOUTH HOSTEL; BEIJING, CHINA
Other noteworthy amenities include a cycle store at the hostel itself; backpackers can have the convenience of renting their bikes there. The hostel ranks high for security (92%) and efficiency of staff (89%).
Overall ranking: 88.6%

#8. BEIJING HEYUAN INTERNATIONAL YOUTH HOSTEL; BEIJING, CHINA
Conveniently located in the heart of Beijing, the hostel is just a 8-minute walk from the subway (Jishuitan Station) and 3 minutes from a little night market with food & snacks.
WE LIKE: The Courtyard. Communal living and cultural experience all in one place. #9. PEOPLE'S SQUARE YOUTH HOSTEL; SHANGHAI, CHINA
It ranks well for its friendly staff, cleanliness, security and location.
Overall rating: 86.9%

#9. PEOPLE'S SQUARE YOUTH HOSTEL; SHANGHAI, CHINA
The hostel holds 20 standard rooms and over 30 bunk beds. Onsite facilities include a full service restaurant, bar, self-service laundry, common area internet terminals, as well as a business center.

#10. BLUE MOUNTAIN YOUTH HOSTEL; SHANGHAI, CHINA
Located just 30m from the Metro station, the Luwan branch scores high for its convenience (90%).

Lanson Place Hotel

Location: 133 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong KongMTR station – Causeway Bay (three stops from Central).This boutique hotel is about 5 to 10 minutes walk from Causeway Bay MTR station.While adjacent to the Causeway Bay residential area, it is a couple of minutes to walk to the Causeway Bay shopping district.

Hotel Highlights· A fully equipped gym with an inspiring city view· Garden courtyard on the ground floor· Lounge and bar private to guests· Food delivery service· Wireless internet within hotel· 24-hour business centre· From studio to two-bedroom suites available· Contemporary design – view photo gallery

Guestrooms Highlights· Broad band internet access, computer, fax/data line, colour TV, safes and desks· Refrigerator, kitchenette with microwave and cooking utensils, hair dryers, iron & ironing boardSpecial OfferRooms are quite spacious. Minimum 380 sq. ft. for general and 1500-1900 sq. ft. for suites

Remarks Good for business travelers and families who enjoy a calm living environment however with easy access to everywhere. Also ideal for those who enjoy shopping and eating as there are plenty of shops and restaurants around. Corporate guests love this boutique hotel and usually have their thumbs up after staying.

www.lansonplace.com/hk_welcome.php

Heng Heng Wan Tan Mee origin from Pontian, Johor.

Heng Heng Wan Tan Mee origin from Pontian, Johor. Established in year 1948, until now they have around 60 plus years of experience in this field. The founder, Mr. Low starts his ‘Wan Tan Mee’ career since he was 16 years old. Mr. Low always persists with his homemade noodles recipe for his customers to eat. Mr.Low’s ‘Wan Tan Mee’ gives the impression of simple but plentiful, just looked at it you will feel very hungry. When using chopsticks to touch up, it will make people think that the noodles is materialized, feel like the noodles is quite weighty and for sure is enough to filled up your stomach. The ‘Wan Tan’ and ‘Char Siew’ meat are also made by their home-made recipe. The ‘Char Siew’ that Mr. Low serves to customers are quite feeling. The lean meat texture of the ‘Char Siew’ is awesome. Moreover, the ‘Char Siew’ are barbequed beautifully. That thick fat aroma comes out from the ‘Char Siew’ will fill around your mouth after eating it. As for the ‘Wan Tan’, the size of the small ‘Wan Tan’ combines with the green onion and soup is really awesome. Once you bite the skin and the meat of the ‘Wan Tan’, immediately the juiciness of the meat will filled around your mouth too. Because of Mr. Low’s ‘Wan Tan Mee’ get good comments by the public so they open another Heng Heng Wan Tan Mee branch in year 1948 at Pontian, Johor too. Then in 2010, they opened another two branches each at Shah Alam and Johor Bahru. All together they have 4 branches in Malaysia. No matter is at the new or old branch, at lunch time the shop is filled with customers.

兴兴云吞面源自于柔佛笨珍。成立于1948年，至今已有六十多年的经营经验。创办人，卢老板打从16岁就开始卖面。一直以来卢老板坚持采用自制的独家秘方所做出来的面条给顾客们吃。 卢老板的云吞面给人的感觉就是简单但丰富，只是看了一眼就会觉得很想吃。细小且分布得很密麻的面条，用筷子夹起来时的触感会让人觉得面条非常实体化，总觉得“斤两”很够，绝对填得饱肚子。云吞和叉烧肉也都是采用自制的独家秘方做出来和烧出来的。卢老板所端出来给顾客享用的每一块叉烧肉都蛮肥厚。瘦肉的质感非常实在。不仅如此，叉烧被烧得很美，看起来真的是很 “腊”。加上叉烧本身散发出来扑鼻的浓浓脂肪味，那浓浓的叉烧味吃了会让你口齿留香。而至于云吞呢，云吞的体积小巧玲珑与绿葱浮沉在碗中，齿咬薄皮的云吞一半慢口细嚼，猪肉圆的味道即刻释放弥漫整个口腔。因为卢老板的云吞面广受好评，在1989年，兴兴云吞面在笨珍开了一间分店。然后在2010年又开了两间分店，一间在Shah Alam而另一间在柔佛新山。不管是哪一间分店还是老店，在午餐时间都是高朋满座。

Shop 1 : No. 74, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor Bahru Shop 2 : No. 766, Taman Anggerik Pt. Mesjid, Pontian Johor Shop 3 : No. 36, Jalan Anggerik Vanilla M 31/ M Kota Kemuning, 40600 Shah Alam

Propose Tanjung Piai & Kukup trip

SUGGESTION ITINERARY 9.00am Tanjung Piai National Park Address: Mukim Serkat, 82030 Pontian, Johor Tel: +607-6969712Cost: RM3 (Adults with MyKad), RM5 (Foreign visitors) Opening Hours: Daytime What: Visit this southern-most tip of Mainland Asia! Tanjung Piai is also a haven for a diverse species of flora and fauna, such as mangrove crabs, beady-eyed mudskippers, crab-eating macaques and migratory birds. 1.00pm 8383 Kopitiam (Kedai Makan Lam Yong) Address: No. 243, 245 Batu 36, Jalan Johor, 82000 Pontian, Johor. Tel: +607-6875323/012-7708383 Cost: From RM3.50 Opening Hours: Breakfast and lunch What: Try the famous Pontian wantan mee hee. The wantan mee comes in three types - tomato sauce, chilli sauce and oyster sauce. Combined with a cup of amazingly good coffee, this will blow your mind away. 2.30pm Fishing on a kelong or chalet Address: Tanjung Piai Resort, Kampung Tanjung Piai, Serkat, 82300 Kukup Tel: +607- 696 0011 Cost: Fishing rod rental from RM15 Opening Hours: Anytime What: You can either visit a nearby kelong or fish directly from your chalet’s balcony if you live on a building on stilts. 5.00pm Rambah Beach Address: Pekan Rambah, Pontian, Johor Cost: Free Opening Hours: Anytime What: Indulge in a bout of swimming, jet skiing, boating, banana boat ride, windsurfing, fishing, sun-bathing and beach games here. 7.00pm New Kukup Village Restaurant Address: No.1, Kukup Laut, 82300 Pontian, Johor Tel: +607-6960216 Cost: About RM15 per person What: Nice food and great ambiance – you get to eat amidst the cool sea breeze. Must-tries include rainbow trout steamed with fried chai poh and fried chilli mussels.

Amazing Treehotel in Sweden

Well, with the help of a group of well known designers and architects, they have now turned the idea into a reality.

They have a group of unique rooms created in harmony with nature, and with our ecological values. They are all set in the forest where we live, a refinement of the local conditions. “Dig where you stand” as the saying goes.

Their inspiration came from the documentary film “Trädälskaren” (Treelover) by Jonas Selberg Augustsen. It is the story of three men from the urban environment who look to get back to their roots by building a tree house together. It is a philosophical film about what “the tree” means to us humans, both historically and culturally.

Treehotel is located in the beautiful village of Harads, approximately 60 km south of the Arctic Circle, and one hour drive from Luleå, which has the largest airport in northern Sweden.

Harads is a place that surrounded by forest and water and by stillness and wilderness. Here lives 600 inhabitants. They have restaurants, stores, hostel, gas station, swimming facilities, view point Klippan and a beautiful church. It is a place that is dominated by forests and water, the serenity and wilderness.

In first generation there are six uniquely themed Tree Rooms, created by 6 separate architects. The Tree Rooms that are finished to days date are: The Mirrorcube, The Bird’s Nest, The Cabin and The Blue Cone.

In addition they have a sauna and a relaxing area room which seat 12 guests comfortably. This is the first Tree Hotel in the world with a Sauna.

The rooms vary from 15 – 30 square meters and they range between 4-6 meters from the ground. They build mainly with wood, though one room has a glass facade. All of the Tree Houses are situated up in pine trees.

The rooms can be accessed by either a ramp or sturdy stairs. One of the rooms has an electric retractable stairs.

Every Tree Room has its own living and sleeping areas. Two of the Tree Rooms are accommodate 2 beds and the remaining three rooms will have 4 beds, which are ideal for families. Each Tree Room is equipped with its own state of the art eco-friendly incineration toilet and water efficient hand basin, which means there is no artificial plumbing.

The interior of each Tree Room are uniquely designed by the architect, with its own furniture and lighting to complement the individual theme.

The Treehotel will be open all year round, which means guests will be able to benefit from either of our lovely hot summer or our beautiful winters. To make this possible, each Treehotel have an electric under-floor heating system which is being delivered from an eco-friendly source of electricity.

What Treehotel are offering is a new experience living close to nature in a place of great natural beauty, where joyful childhood memories can be relived with added comfort and sophistication. The next time you are in Sweden; do try this out and share with us your experience.

Uluru Pictures & Video Clips

Enjoy the video Uluru tour? Isn’t it amazing? In case you’re not familiar with Uluru: Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory, central Australia.

It lies 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, Alice Springs; 450 km (280 mi) by road. Kata Tjuta and Uluru are the two major features of the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Uluru is sacred to the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara, the Aboriginal people of the area. It has many springs, waterholes, rock caves and ancient paintings. Uluru is listed as a World Heritage Site.

Uluru is one of Australia’s most recognisable natural icons. The world-renowned sandstone formation stands 348 m (1,142 ft) high (863 m/2,831 ft above sea level) with most of its bulk below the ground, and measures 9.4 km (5.8 mi) in circumference.

Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta have great cultural significance for the Aṉangu Traditional landowners, who led walking tours to inform visitors about the local flora and fauna, bush foods and the Aboriginal dreamtime stories of the area.

Uluru is notable for appearing to change colour as the different light strikes it at different times of the day and year, with sunset a particularly remarkable sight when it briefly glows red. Although rainfall is uncommon in this semiarid area, during wet periods the rock acquires a silvery-grey colour, with streaks of black algae forming on the areas that serve as channels for water flow.

Kata Tjuta, also called Mount Olga or The Olgas, is another rock formation about 25 km (16 mi) west of Uluru. Special viewing areas with road access and parking have been constructed to give tourists the best views of both sites at dawn and dusk.

Are you interested to visit Uluru?

Admission
Admission to the park costs AU$25 per person, and provides a three day pass. Passes are non-transferable and all passes are checked by park rangers.

Climbing
Climbing Uluru is a popular attraction for visitors. A chain handhold added in 1964 and extended in 1976 makes the hour-long climb easier, but it is still a long (800 m/0.5 mi) and steep hike to the top, where it can be quite windy. It is recommended individuals drink plenty of water whilst climbing, and those who are unfit, suffer from vertigo or medical conditions restricting exercise, do not attempt it. Climbing Uluru is generally closed to the public when high winds are recorded at the top. There have been at least 35 deaths relating to recreational climbing since such incidents began being recorded.

The local Aṉangu do not climb Uluru because of its great spiritual significance. They request that visitors do not climb the rock, partly due to the path crossing a sacred traditional Dreamtime track, and also due to a sense of responsibility for the safety of visitors. The visitors guide says "the climb is not prohibited, but we prefer that, as a guest on Anangu land, you will choose to respect our law and culture by not climbing."

On 11 December 1983, Prime Minister Bob Hawke promised to hand back the land title to the Aṉangu traditional owners and agreed to the community's 10-point plan which included forbidding the climbing of Uluru. However, the government set access to climb Uluru and a 99-year lease, instead of the previously agreed upon 50-year lease, as conditions before the title was officially given back to the Aṉangu.

In 2009, the Australian government indicated that climbing Uluru may no longer be allowed under the proposed "Draft Management Plan 2009-2019". The public has been invited to comment on the plan prior to submission to the Minister for the Environment.

Photography
The Aṉangu also request that visitors do not photograph certain sections of Uluru, for reasons related to traditional Tjukurpa beliefs. These areas are the sites of gender-linked rituals, and are forbidden ground for Aṉangu of the opposite sex of those participating in the rituals in question. The photographic ban is intended to prevent Aṉangu from inadvertently violating this taboo by encountering photographs of the forbidden sites in the outside world.

High Speed Rail in China

If you travel to China, you will understand sometimes it saves time if you travel by the high speed rail (HSR) in China.

From the map above, the solid red line shows HSR in service, the dotted ones are under-construction, and the blue ones are planned.

41 Useful travel tips for business travelers in Asia by Scott Anthony, the Managing Director of Innosight Ventures

1. If you need to get a taxi in Singapore, don't bother trying to hail one on the street. Join a queue at a mall or hotel or call or SMS in advance. When it's raining, don't bother trying to get one at all.
2. If there are long lines at immigration in Incheon Airport in South Korea, always go to the right-most line. The lines for the locals clear fast, and they also allow foreigners.
3. Tell the kids you are going to Phi Phi Island near Phuket. Hilarity will ensue. And it's a beautiful place. Ask for Ta and Kung at the Phi Phi Island Resort.
4. If you have the choice between an Asian or Middle Eastern airline and a U.S. or European one, always take the Asian or Middle Eastern one —even if you have to pay more for it.
5. Do whatever you can to get status on Singapore Airlines as quickly as possible. If there is a company that has higher service standards than Singapore Airlines, I'd like to see it.
6. If you happen to give a speech in Asia, expect a gift. This year I received a Cross pen, two flower bouquets, a wheel of cheese (admittedly that was Amsterdam), a fake leather bag, a watch, and a bottle of champagne.
7. If someone says, "Just a minute" in India, that can mean anything from a minute to a lifetime.
8. Skype is your friend.
9. There is some kind of food at every meeting in the Philippines.
10. The least friendly country to enter is the United States.
11. If you ask Filipinos to do a skit as part of an innovation workshop, stand back; there is some real local talent.
12. Beware of pushing random buttons on the side of your toilet in Korea.
13. Singapore is like August in Washington, D.C. every day. If you are planning to move to the country, at least ask whether you need to ship 10 pairs of jeans and a dozen sweaters.
14. Chicken rice rocks!
15. Don't even consider driving your own car in India.
16. China's potential is simply awesome.
17. Asia is a really, really big place. "Popping over" to Korea from Singapore takes seven hours.
18. If you go to Shanghai take the MagLev train. It drops you in the middle of nowhere, but it's quite an experience.
19. The food stalls in Singapore offer a ridiculous price-value combination.
20. The shopping malls in Singapore, on the other hand, do not.
21. With Slingbox, Skype, and MLB.TV, it can feel like you never left home.
22. The Night Safari in Singapore is worth the visit — particularly if you have kids.
23. Avoid eating dinner in your hotel room — even if you don't speak the language, find a restaurant that has pictures on the menu. You get a better window into local culture.
24. There are more Christmas decorations in Singapore then any city I've ever visited (the plane I am currently on has wreathes in the cabin!), which is kind of weird since I don't think the local population attaches any significance to Christmas beyond shopping (though that doesn't make it much different from other countries).
25. The Korea Air Limo buses provide very pleasant, convenient, and affordable transport between the airport and any hotel.
26. The US casts a long shadow, and people will ask your opinion on healthcare reform, the approval ratings of the President, LeBron James, and Apple's latest moves. Your only hope is to read The Economist or a similar publication.
27. If Apple isn't worried about Korean, Chinese, and Taiwanese companies, it should be.
Don't forget about Indonesia. It is the world's second biggest market for Facebook and Blackberries. It's not quite at BRIC level yet, but it's getting pretty close.
28. The way I minimize jet lag — switch to the new time zone as quickly as you can. If you are landing at night try to exhaust yourself so you will go to sleep easily.
29. Drink lots and lots of water.
30. Tipping is not expected in most Asian countries.
31. The Fuse travel adaptor with USB output jack is a wonderful add to any traveler's bag.
32. Many Asian airlines won't allow bags that weigh more than 7 kilograms as carry-on. They don't often weigh them though, so a bag that looks light is usually enough. I use a silver one since it looks lighter than black!
33. Kids learn to use chopsticks surprisingly fast.
34. Unless you are unusually adventurous, it's probably better to not get items on a dim sum menu that you don't recognize.
35. Few things make me happier after 40 hours of travel than going through Changi airport. 36. Time from the plane to a taxi is usually less than 15 minutes.
37. The mooncake festival rocks.
38. "MacGyver" translates to more countries than you would imagine.
39. Asian hotels generally have ridiculously fast WiFi connections. 40.Every building in Singapore has a unique zip code — it's all you need on Google Maps.
41. I've been told really cheap bottled water in India is probably worse than tap water, because chemicals from the plastic eek into the water.

Top 25 Hotels in the World

You may not get the chance to enjoy all of the best hotels in the world; but, it’s good to know.

1. Golden Well (U Zlate Studne), @ Prague, Czech Republic

2. Anastasis Apartments, @ Imerovigli, Greece
3. Riad Le Calife, @ Fes, Morocco
4. Al Ponte Antico Hotel, @ Venice, Italy
5. La Villa Marbella – Charming Hotel @ Marbella, Spain
6. Hotel Prinsenhof Bruges @ Bruges, Belgium
7. The Tuscany @ Providenciales
8. Los Altos De Eros @ Tamarindo, Costa Rica
9. Cocoa Island Resort @ South Male Atoll
10. Britania Hotel @ Lisbon, Portugal

You can check out the complete list here.

New Hotel at Pontian

Pontian Garden Hotel is located in the most accessible location just 62 km from Johor Bahru. It is situated at Pusat Perdagangan Pontian Seaside. A land reclaimation area which creates Pontian Business Centre, New Bus Station and longer sealine for Pontian.


Contact:
Tel: +607-686 1001
+6017-717 4919
Fax: +607-686 4397
E-mail: ghp1001@gmail.com
Web: www.pontiangardenhotel.com

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Muar

Muar is the second biggest town and district of the stateof Johor in southern Malaysia. Muar is also known by its other name, Bandar Maharani, which means Empress Town.

By train
The nearest train railway stations are Segamat with Seremban or Kluang. Tranfer by bus or taxi has to be taken to redirect to Muar.

By car
Besides federal roads, Muar is also accessible via the North–South Expressway through the Tangkak and Pagoh interchanges exits which are located 20 km and 30 km from the town, respectively.

If you're driving from Kuala Lumpur on the North South Expressway (NSE), take the Tangkak exit (Interchange 235) and drive on past Sg. Mati and Parit Bunga (on highway 23 and 5). Muar town is about 27km from the Tangkak exit. If you are driving from Johor Bahru, exit at Pagoh and head to the Muar town.

By bus
Direct bus from Singapore to Muar Bus Station

a)Malacca S'pore Express - Lavender Street Tel: 62935915 (10am & 4pm) - Only buses departing at these times come to Muar

b) KKKL Trans Lim Express - Beach Road Tel: 63981216 (10am daily)

c) Delima Express - Kallang Bahru, Lavender Street Tel: 62949306 - SGD 16 per person

From Larkin Bus Terminal to Muar Bus Station There are 3 bus companies that have services to Muar:

Mayang Sari Ekspress - last bus is at 7.15pm

KKKL Ekspress - last bus is at 8.00pm

South Johor The bus ticket cost RM15 per person.

The journey from Larkin Bus Terminal to Muar takes roughly 2 1/2 hours.
From Muar Bus Station to Accommodation You can take a taxi to your chosen accommodation. The taxi fare will cost you only RM10 per taxi.

Visit
Tanjung Emas Park - Tanjung Emas recreational park overlooking Muar River is the place to go. This recreational park has a food court offering local delicacies if you get a little hungry- try the ikan asam pedas (fish cooked with tamarind sauce and chilli paste) for which this town is famous. There's plenty of rest shades if the sun gets too hot and also a children's playground to keep the little ones amused. The park, which is much visited during the weekends, also houses a 9-hole golf course, Tanjung Emas Golf Club. A 45 minute to one hour Muar River Cruise departing from this park is also available to offer tourists views of Muar town from the river. Nearby, Tanjung Ketapang is next to Tanjung Emas facing The Malacca Straits. The mangrove along the coastal line is home to wild monkeys or macaques but harmless and tame to visitors who feeds them.

Laman Maharani Padang Nyiru - The garden at the new park called Padang Nyiru near the Sultan Ismail bridge, named Laman Maharani, includes a modern clock tower with old English achitecture, a mini Roman Colosseum, a neatly manicured lawn, a pavement under leafy trees, a fountain, a dome-shaped pavilion, parking bays and a beautifully-designed seawall. The garden immortalises the old days when the site was a busy trading centre where junks and boats anchored with merchandise and charcoal and ringing with the joy and laughter of the coolies who toiled hard day and night. It is now a green lung for the town folks and visiting tourists to take leisurely walks and enjoy the natural beauty of the Muar River in the town centre.

Gunung Ledang - Located about 30 km from Muar town, Gunung Ledang (formerly Mt Ophir) is well known for the Legend of Gunung Ledang story of the mystique Puteri Gunung Ledang, entwined with its mysterious tales of supernatural encounters among the locals besides its beautiful natural attraction. Standing at 1,267m, Gunung Ledang is Johor's highest mountain and it can be accessed both from Johor (Sagil) and Melaka (Asahan). There are nice camping sites by the side of waterfall at the mountain foot and those who are adventurous can take up the challenges to climb to the peak of the mountain. The journey to the top will take approximately five hours through the dense but scenery virgin jungle. There are 2 options of access to the mountain top and mountain foot lodgings available by 2 different managements namely; Gunung Ledang Resort and Taman Hutan Lagenda-Taman Negara Gunung Ledang.

Pantai Leka, Parit Jawa - A nice sea-side fishing village and the coast is an important stopover and winter feeding ground for 60 bird species of migratory birds including egret, eagle, heron, sandpiper, swift and kingfisher, and efforts is being taken to gazet the area as a bird sanctuary. There are many sea foods, grilled fish and assam pedas stalls and restaurant serving nice delicious foods. GPS coordinates 1.951372N 102.635517E.

Sungai Gersik Hot Spring - Kolam Air Panas Sungai Gersik, the natural wonder of hot springs can be found in the district of Muar, about 10km from Parit Jawa town. The hot spring, with water temperature is estimated at 50 to 70 degree celcius, was discovered over 100 years ago in the peaty area, was believed to have healing power due to its high sulphur content. The hot spring area has chalet, public amenities like toilet, bath room and parking facilities, Muslim prayer room, a children's playground and some shops. The place is opened from 7 am to 7 pm. Admission is free to locals and foreigners. GPS Coordinates: GPS 1.940900N 102.741300E.

Nasuha Spices & Herbs Farm - Ladang Rempah Ratus Nasuha farm is located at the 19 Km of Jalan Muar Pagoh, Muar covers an area of over 3200 acres, known to be the largest Herbs and Spices farm in Asia, producing 6 to 10 metric tonnes of raw herbs and spices each day. The farm is planted with 135 types of herbs collected from all over the world. There is a museum, restaurant, a herbal SPA, a resort and a processing plant inside the farm. Group tour can be arranged to visit the farm for bird watching, hiking activities, stress management and motivational course is also offerred to public members.

Dusun Damai - An scenery fruits orchard homestead resort on a scenic hill in Pagoh, Muar located midway PLUS highway between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. Just 15 minutes easy access from Pagoh toll plaza.

Shopping
Otak-otak, frozen-packed-uncooked or attap-leaf-wrapped-grilled.
= Food stalls and hawkers at Jalan Haji Abu Hawker Centre or Jalan Bentayan Hawker Centre.
= A Class Otak-otak Products Shop.

There also Pasar Malam and Pasar Tani selling variety of local products.
The shopping centres and supermarkets or hypermarkets in Muar are Wetex Parade, The Store, Giant, Econsave, Astaka Shopping Centre, Lagenda Complex, K-Mall, Fresco, One-Stop, Arked Mara and Hentian Maharani.

There are two wet markets in Muar town:
Pasar Awam Bandar Maharani (Tua Pa Sat) (Below Astaka Shopping Centre), Jalan Maharani, Muar.
One Central Market (Sin Pa Sat) (formerly Hock Hai Market), Jalan Ali/Arab/Haji Abu, Muar

Accomadation

These are mostly old hotels providing budget and cheap rooms, normally around RM30. Room condition is not so clean, but located in the middle of the town.
Hotel Leewa : 75, 1st Floor,Jalan Arab. Tel : +606 9515995
Kingdom Hotel : 158, Jalan Meriam. Tel :06-9521921
Embassy Hotel : 171, Jalan Abdullah. Tel :06-9521886
Nam Yang Hotel : 41, Jalan Maharani. Tel :+606 922558.
Wah Hin Chan Hotel : 120 Jln Meriam. Tel :+606 9512043

There are also some homestays providing interesting stay and holiday programe located at the out-skirt villages of the town.
Homestay Kg. Sarang Buaya, Tel. 012-754 0597, 06-988 1378, 019-747 3442, 07-416 2396.
Homestay Kg. Melayu Bt. 28 Lenga, Tel. 06-952 3093, 06-971 1150, 013-680 2265.
Homestay Kg. Parit Bugis, Tel. 013-774 4244, 07-416 3837, 019-273 3703, Email: parit_bugis@yahoo.com.

Map

www.tourmalaysia.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/muar-city-map2.gif

Food Trip Blog

http://chrisy-mania.blogspot.com/2010/12/muar-food-trip.html

http://only-nicole.blogspot.com/2010/11/food-trip-muar.html

http://sayangmelaka.blogspot.com/2010/12/travel-muar.html

http://famouschris.com/3d2n-muar-day-3-my-budget-inn-otak-otak-daily-happy/

http://double-lithium.blogspot.com/2010/09/makan-makan-in-muar.html