Categories
Tourism Malaysia

IN CHOCOLATE HEAVEN

A long, long time ago, the Mayans were believed to have first discovered cocoa, which they considered as a sacred treat. Nowadays, chocolates are still considered precious delights. They certainly make wonderful treats during festive seasons and who would ever say no to a chocolate souvenir! Yup, chocolates are some of the popular things tourists buy as souvenirs to bring home. Malaysia certainly has its own home-grown chocolate brands, but besides that, while you are here in Malaysia, why not indulge in something more chocolate-y? Perhaps a tea-time treat at a chocolate café…or a tour of a chocolate factory?

Malaysian chocolate flavours

Typically, you can always count on the standard flavours of chocolates such as white, milk and dark (with various percentages of cocoa). The chocolate experience is a bit novel in Malaysia, though, as Malaysian chocolatiers have taken chocolate-making a step further by infusing local flavours into their creations.

For instance, you find many chocolate brands in local shops, with unique flavours that you cannot find elsewhere. Try mango chocolates…or for those who love the King of Fruits, there are many durian chocolate selections…these are popular flavours among tourists. How about Gula Melaka chocolates and Teh Tarik chocolates? Well, we leave it to you to taste!

Here are some Malaysia-brand chocolates you may wish to bring home as souvenirs, which can be easily found in most supermarkets and shopping malls: Beryl’s, Camior, Daiana, Fidani, Hoko, Vochelle and many more.

Chocolate Cafés

Chocolate cafes are booming fast, almost overtaking those trendy cafes and their coffees! Well, it’s a blessing for all chocolate lovers, then. If you want to really savour your chocolate indulgence, make a visit to MyTown Shopping Centre in Cheras, where you will find chocolate decadence at The Dark Gallery (https://thedarkgallery.com). Reading the menu list itself will make you drool, but if you are overwhelmed by the choices, it’s wise to go with the tasting platter that combines their best chocolate pastries, ice creams and hot chocolates.

The pretty décor of Nayuta Chocolatasia (http://www.nayuta.com.my), meanwhile, will remind you very much of the Far East. The café, located within Isetan Japan Store in Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, prides itself in the high quality of cacao beans cultivated right here in the Southeast Asian region, namely Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia and of course, Malaysia. They call themselves the “chocolate label produced by Asian people to suit the Asian taste palate” for milky, caramel-infused and soft textured chocolate. Spend an afternoon here to sample their delicate 8g bonbons with typical Asian ganache such as lime, pineapple and yuzu, or delight in a huge bar of chocolate with cashew nuts, dried mango and caramelised coconuts. With all that sweetness in your mouth and the artful décor, you will want to daintily sip that cup of hot chocolate!

Chocolate Museum

Looking for more? Apart from the trendy cafes, some established chocolate manufacturers have also introduced a specialty concept-store known as the chocolate museum.

One of these chocolate museums that the public can visit for free is the Chocolate Museum by Fidani (www.chocolatemuseum.my)   at Kota Damansara. Apart from the boutique shop selling more than 100 chocolate brands, the premise is well-equipped with a large gallery full of informative facts and displays about the art and science of chocolate-making. Learn about the history of cacao beans, the farming process and how it is transformed from bean to bar. They also have a live-kitchen demo by a chef on the makings of chocolates.

Another worth-visiting museum is the Beryl’s Chocolate Museum (www.berylschocolate.com.my), about 20 kilometres from the city centre. The museum is well-laid out with informative chocolate displays on history, chocolate facts and more. You’ll also be able to purchase all sorts of chocolate flavours from the Beryl’s brand.

Chocolate Cupid

For the serious chocolate lover, head over to the heart of Bangsar, where the Chocolate Concierge (www.chocconcierge.com) will be most happy to match you with the right chocolate that you’ve been craving for, selected from their large selection of chocolate flavours and recipes. And if your chocolate urge is still not satisfied, they’ll even custom-make the chocolate for you, of course, with a low minimum order. With passion-driven care for chocolates and bean origin, Chocolate Concierge is mighty serious about their bean-to-bar process, and it’s no surprise that they’ve been featured in the Michelin food guide as a rising chocolatier. Try the soft filling chocolate morsels with hints of cappuccino, strawberry, or wasabi, and their hand piped truffles. Or for something truly local, go for the freshly-made Pahang Origin Dark chocolate with cocoa nibs.

 

 

 

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

UNLEASHING YOUR INNER WILD THROUGH GLAMPING

When you live in a country like Malaysia, you can’t help but want to go camping in the rainforests or on the high hills because nature here is abundant and unbelievably beautiful. But the reasons that stop you from doing that is the thought of trekking, putting up makeshift tents, sleeping in sleeping bags and fighting off mosquitoes and leeches.

But fret not, you urban jungle warriors…the glamping trend has arrived in Malaysia, enabling you to experience the wilderness with complete luxury and comfort. There’s no need to get your hands dirty or worry about being bitten by killer ants!

Here are top 5 glamping sites in Peninsular Malaysia:

Tiarasa Escapes, Pahang

Tiarasa Escapes is nestled in the cool foothills of Janda Baik located just 30 minutes outside Kuala Lumpur. Spread across 7 acres, your senses are at once heightened and soothed by a graceful vista of majestic trees and fragrant fruit-laden orchards. Here, rare vibrant birds seek refuge, butterflies flit about and red dragonflies dance along a bubbling brook. The best thing is that you can be part of it all from the comforts of Tiarasa Escapes’ luxurious safari-style tents and treetop villas surrounded by mountain mist, lush rainforest, babbling brooks, and winding paths.

 

Address: Jalan Enderong, Sum Sum Ulu,
28750 Kampung Janda Baik, Pahang, Malaysia
Tel: 012-887 7777
Website: www.tiarasaescapes.com

Boulder Valley Glamping , Penang

A unique way to experience untamed and utterly exceptional parts of the world – without sacrificing creature comforts is to stay at Boulder Valley Glamping. You will get an experience to sleep among the unique boulders and tropical greens settings. Intentionally kept basic and free from over lavishness, glamping tents at Boulders are a far cry from the DIY tent in a bag. They offer amenities like comfortable beds and ensuite bathroom facilities.

Address:
8 Jalan Teluk Bahang
11050 Teluk Bahang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +6012 4906882
Email: info@bouldervalleyglamping.com.my
Website : https://bouldervalleyglamping.com.my

Lost World Glamping, Ipoh, Perak

Glamping inside a theme park will be a dream come true for many of us, especially when the theme park itself is surrounded by lush tropical jungle with natural hotsprings, spectacular limestone features and natural surroundings. The Lost World Glamping packages come with luxurious tent complete with the comforts of a hotel, such as bed linen, power sockets, fan, and complimentary buffet breakfast. You will also have access to the Lost World of Tambun and Lost World Hot Springs Night Park. It’s the perfect introduction to rainforest adventure for the little ones!

Address:
No.1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1,
Sunway City Ipoh,
31150 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan,

Theme park tel: +605 542 8888
Hotel tel: +605- 540 8888
E-mail: lostworldoftambun@sunway.com.my
Website: https://sunwaylostworldoftambun.com/glamping/

Tanah Larwina, Selangor

Tanah Larwina’s charming 3-acre orchard and animal farm is located just outside KL city, which is really convenient for urbanites looking for a short get-away. You can glamp in style during the weekend at this industrial-style self-catering lodge uniquely designed overlooking a cascading stream. Get up close with various animals including rabbits, horses, geese and peacocks, or explore the natural surroundings at your leisure.

 

Address
Kg Paya Lebar, Batu 23,  Jalan Sg Lui,
Hulu Langat, Selangor, Malaysia.
WhatsApp: +6 012 210 3351 – Faisol  (No phonecall please)
Email: tanahlarwina@gmail.com
Website: http://www.tanahlarwina.com

Glamping@Kongkoi, Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan

Glamping@Kongkoi is a family-run private hideout situated within 10 acres of forest land by the Kenaboi River in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, about 80km from Kuala Lumpur city center. Inspired by their journey in the creative industry and their own love for nature and adventure, the owners of Glamping@Kongkoi offer 10 handcrafted chalets, rumah tamu villa and riverbank tents for those who want to be closer to the wilderness yet feel right at home.

Address:
Lot 608, Kampung Puom
71650 Titi, Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan
TEL: 601-9269-5260
E-mail: booking@glampingatkongkoi.com
Website: https://www.glampingatkongkoi.com

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

UNLEASHING YOUR INNER WILD THROUGH GLAMPING

When you live in a country like Malaysia, you can’t help but want to go camping in the rainforests or on the high hills because nature here is abundant and unbelievably beautiful. But the reasons that stop you from doing that is the thought of trekking, putting up makeshift tents, sleeping in sleeping bags and fighting off mosquitoes and leeches.

But fret not, you urban jungle warriors…the glamping trend has arrived in Malaysia, enabling you to experience the wilderness with complete luxury and comfort. There’s no need to get your hands dirty or worry about being bitten by killer ants!

Here are top 5 glamping sites in Peninsular Malaysia:

Tiarasa Escapes, Pahang

Tiarasa Escapes is nestled in the cool foothills of Janda Baik located just 30 minutes outside Kuala Lumpur. Spread across 7 acres, your senses are at once heightened and soothed by a graceful vista of majestic trees and fragrant fruit-laden orchards. Here, rare vibrant birds seek refuge, butterflies flit about and red dragonflies dance along a bubbling brook. The best thing is that you can be part of it all from the comforts of Tiarasa Escapes’ luxurious safari-style tents and treetop villas surrounded by mountain mist, lush rainforest, babbling brooks, and winding paths.

 

Address: Jalan Enderong, Sum Sum Ulu,
28750 Kampung Janda Baik, Pahang, Malaysia
Tel: 012-887 7777
Website: www.tiarasaescapes.com

Boulder Valley Glamping , Penang

A unique way to experience untamed and utterly exceptional parts of the world – without sacrificing creature comforts is to stay at Boulder Valley Glamping. You will get an experience to sleep among the unique boulders and tropical greens settings. Intentionally kept basic and free from over lavishness, glamping tents at Boulders are a far cry from the DIY tent in a bag. They offer amenities like comfortable beds and ensuite bathroom facilities.

Address:
8 Jalan Teluk Bahang
11050 Teluk Bahang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +6012 4906882
Email: info@bouldervalleyglamping.com.my
Website : https://bouldervalleyglamping.com.my

Lost World Glamping, Ipoh, Perak

Glamping inside a theme park will be a dream come true for many of us, especially when the theme park itself is surrounded by lush tropical jungle with natural hotsprings, spectacular limestone features and natural surroundings. The Lost World Glamping packages come with luxurious tent complete with the comforts of a hotel, such as bed linen, power sockets, fan, and complimentary buffet breakfast. You will also have access to the Lost World of Tambun and Lost World Hot Springs Night Park. It’s the perfect introduction to rainforest adventure for the little ones!

Address:
No.1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1,
Sunway City Ipoh,
31150 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan,

Theme park tel: +605 542 8888
Hotel tel: +605- 540 8888
E-mail: lostworldoftambun@sunway.com.my
Website: https://sunwaylostworldoftambun.com/glamping/

Tanah Larwina, Selangor

Tanah Larwina’s charming 3-acre orchard and animal farm is located just outside KL city, which is really convenient for urbanites looking for a short get-away. You can glamp in style during the weekend at this industrial-style self-catering lodge uniquely designed overlooking a cascading stream. Get up close with various animals including rabbits, horses, geese and peacocks, or explore the natural surroundings at your leisure.

 

Address
Kg Paya Lebar, Batu 23,  Jalan Sg Lui,
Hulu Langat, Selangor, Malaysia.
WhatsApp: +6 012 210 3351 – Faisol  (No phonecall please)
Email: tanahlarwina@gmail.com
Website: http://www.tanahlarwina.com

Glamping@Kongkoi, Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan

Glamping@Kongkoi is a family-run private hideout situated within 10 acres of forest land by the Kenaboi River in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, about 80km from Kuala Lumpur city center. Inspired by their journey in the creative industry and their own love for nature and adventure, the owners of Glamping@Kongkoi offer 10 handcrafted chalets, rumah tamu villa and riverbank tents for those who want to be closer to the wilderness yet feel right at home.

Address:
Lot 608, Kampung Puom
71650 Titi, Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan
TEL: 601-9269-5260
E-mail: booking@glampingatkongkoi.com
Website: https://www.glampingatkongkoi.com

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

WHAT LIES “BEHIND THE ISLAND”?

On the southwest of Penang, there is a sleepy town called Balik Pulau, literally meaning “behind the island,” that offers a glimpse of yesteryear. I salute the person who gave this town its name; there’s no need to give the town a fancy name, just a simple Balik Pulau would do.

But there’s nothing simple about Balik Pulau. What lies “behind the island” are beautiful sceneries, fresh air, quaint villages, street art, hospitable people, delicious food, empty beaches and peace and quiet. Let me show you what lies “behind the island”.

Balik Pulau Street Art

George Town has long been known as one of the street art capitals of the world. A prominent Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevi was commissioned to paint eight murals depicting the cultural and heritage of the island, which sparked the street art craze in not just Penang but the whole of Malaysia.

But street art in Balik Pulau depicts real people. Julia Volchkova who hails from Russia, paints the people she has met around the villages. Her murals on the pre-war buildings around Balik Pulau portray a rubber tapper, a fisherman, an Indian lady, a Hakka lady, as well as a martial artist in a pose.

Image via Julia Volchkova

Half the fun of the street art is hunting for the paintings, so what are you waiting for? Just head southwest of Penang and start your search for Volchkova’s murals and other drawings from various unknown artists.

Pasir Panjang Beach

I have a secret to share – did you know that Balik Pulau has a beach that is empty of tourists? That’s right, the beach at Pasir Panjang Beach is your own private playground. Here, you won’t have to fight for a space to set up your picnic spread. Just enjoy the empty beach to yourself, collecting beautiful seashells, chasing little crabs, angling, or simply enjoying the beautiful sunset. I must tell you, though, that swimming is not advisable here – the 2004 tsunami had eroded the beach and there may be steep parts and strong undercurrents in the sea not immediately visible to the eye.

Saanen Dairy Goat Farm

Did you know that the Royal Society recently reported that goats are much more attracted to people with big smiles plastered across their faces? Well, if you want to test it out, go visit Saanen Dairy Goat Farm in Permatang Pasir, Balik Pulau and find out for yourself.

Oh, for your information, Saanen goats are a white or cream colored breed of goats, named after the Saanen valley in Switzerland. So, please smile widely while you are feeding them the Rose and Napiar grasses. Entrance to the farm and feeding activities are free of charge. At the farm, you will get to learn the daily operations of a dairy goat farm from milking until the distribution process. Don’t forget to check out their ice cream, yogurt, feta, goat’s cheese and pudding made from fresh milk.

Address:

298 Mukim 1 Sungai Pinang, 11010 Balik Pulau, Penang
Tel: 019-5163017
Messenger: m.me/SaanenDairyGoatFarm

Countryside Stables Penang

Nestled in the midst of the Sungai Burung agriculture area in Balik Pulau is the privately-owned Countryside Stables that offers its visitor all kind of riding activities.

To date, it is home to 35 horses of various breed including miniatures horses, Shetlands ponies, pure bred Arabian horses, Polo pony, Thai, Myanmar and Malaysian ponies, Percheron, and other animals such as donkeys and deer.


Upon entering Countryside Stables, an entry free of RM10 (adults) RM5 (children) will be charged. Some of the activities include joy rides and guided rides for children and adults, animal petting and feeding, as well as horse carriage rides.

Address:
Lot 10050 Jalan Sungai Burung, Kampong Jalan Baru, Balik Pulau
Tel: 012-408 0678
Messenger: m.me/countrysidestablespenang

Kuala Sungai Pinang

Kuala Sungai Pinang is a traditional fishing village that looks like it is frozen in time. It is worth a visit if you have never been to a fishing village and curious about the daily life of a fisherman. At the village, you get to see fishermen tending their nets while their old-school boats sway gently at the dock, or just enjoy the view of the villagers hustling for the catch of the day. It is simply nostalgic. Besides that, some of the friendly fishermen offer boat rides until the mangrove area and the nearby surroundings. Kuala Sungai Pinang may just be the place for poetic inspiration.

 

Titi Kerawang Waterfall

A cascading waterfall and natural pool await visitors at a scenic road between Balik Pulau and Teluk Bahang, on the western side of the island. Since there are few waterfalls in Penang, a visit to this waterfall, which the locals call Titi Kerawang, is a must. The cool environment and dense greenery make the waterfall an ideal picnic spot. Local people normally come here in droves during the weekends and public holidays for recreation.

Stepping Stone Centre

The centre showcases a variety of high quality crafts which can be purchased. These include hand woven scarves, tie and dye bags in vibrant colours, home-made soaps, candles, etc. All products are made by members with special needs who have channeled their skills and abilities into a viable career. Stepping Stone is a support centre for community living run by an NGO, the Asia Community Service.

Address

53, Jalan Bharu, Bukit Satu, MK 1 Pulau Betong, Balik Pulau

Contact Number
+604 866 5349

Bao Sheng Durian Farm

Your visit to Balik Pulau is not complete if you did not go to a durian farm. In fact, every year between May and August, durian is the only fruit that draws visitors from near and far to Balik Pulau. There is this farm in Balik Pulau called Bao Sheng, which offers its visitors a compelling durian tasting experience. Savor the distinctive taste of Malaysia’s king of fruits in their tasting sessions as you learn about various types of durians and how to pick the best ones.

Address:
150 Mukim 2, Sungai Pinang, 11010 Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +6012-411 0600 / +6012-401 0800
E-mail: bsfarm@durian.com.my
Website: http://www.durian.com.my

Matahari Cycle Tours, Balik Pulau

One of the best ways to explore Balik Pulau is on two wheels as you can easily meander through the villages and go off-the-beaten path to really get to know the locals. Matahari Cycle Tours is one of the prominent tour agencies that promotes the area. Cycling through Balik Pulau will allow you plenty of opportunities to get a perfect photo of the traditional villages, plantations, paddy fields and the farms.

Matahari Cycle Tours Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Contact No: +6019-4480440 (Mr Syed and Ms Princillia)
E-mail: mataharicycle@gmail.com
Website: http://www.cyclematahari.com

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

WHAT LIES “BEHIND THE ISLAND”?

On the southwest of Penang, there is a sleepy town called Balik Pulau, literally meaning “behind the island,” that offers a glimpse of yesteryear. I salute the person who gave this town its name; there’s no need to give the town a fancy name, just a simple Balik Pulau would do.

But there’s nothing simple about Balik Pulau. What lies “behind the island” are beautiful sceneries, fresh air, quaint villages, street art, hospitable people, delicious food, empty beaches and peace and quiet. Let me show you what lies “behind the island”.

Balik Pulau Street Art

George Town has long been known as one of the street art capitals of the world. A prominent Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevi was commissioned to paint eight murals depicting the cultural and heritage of the island, which sparked the street art craze in not just Penang but the whole of Malaysia.

But street art in Balik Pulau depicts real people. Julia Volchkova who hails from Russia, paints the people she has met around the villages. Her murals on the pre-war buildings around Balik Pulau portray a rubber tapper, a fisherman, an Indian lady, a Hakka lady, as well as a martial artist in a pose.

Image via Julia Volchkova

Half the fun of the street art is hunting for the paintings, so what are you waiting for? Just head southwest of Penang and start your search for Volchkova’s murals and other drawings from various unknown artists.

Pasir Panjang Beach

I have a secret to share – did you know that Balik Pulau has a beach that is empty of tourists? That’s right, the beach at Pasir Panjang Beach is your own private playground. Here, you won’t have to fight for a space to set up your picnic spread. Just enjoy the empty beach to yourself, collecting beautiful seashells, chasing little crabs, angling, or simply enjoying the beautiful sunset. I must tell you, though, that swimming is not advisable here – the 2004 tsunami had eroded the beach and there may be steep parts and strong undercurrents in the sea not immediately visible to the eye.

Saanen Dairy Goat Farm

Did you know that the Royal Society recently reported that goats are much more attracted to people with big smiles plastered across their faces? Well, if you want to test it out, go visit Saanen Dairy Goat Farm in Permatang Pasir, Balik Pulau and find out for yourself.

Oh, for your information, Saanen goats are a white or cream colored breed of goats, named after the Saanen valley in Switzerland. So, please smile widely while you are feeding them the Rose and Napiar grasses. Entrance to the farm and feeding activities are free of charge. At the farm, you will get to learn the daily operations of a dairy goat farm from milking until the distribution process. Don’t forget to check out their ice cream, yogurt, feta, goat’s cheese and pudding made from fresh milk.

Address:

298 Mukim 1 Sungai Pinang, 11010 Balik Pulau, Penang
Tel: 019-5163017
Messenger: m.me/SaanenDairyGoatFarm

Countryside Stables Penang

Nestled in the midst of the Sungai Burung agriculture area in Balik Pulau is the privately-owned Countryside Stables that offers its visitor all kind of riding activities.

To date, it is home to 35 horses of various breed including miniatures horses, Shetlands ponies, pure bred Arabian horses, Polo pony, Thai, Myanmar and Malaysian ponies, Percheron, and other animals such as donkeys and deer.


Upon entering Countryside Stables, an entry free of RM10 (adults) RM5 (children) will be charged. Some of the activities include joy rides and guided rides for children and adults, animal petting and feeding, as well as horse carriage rides.

Address:
Lot 10050 Jalan Sungai Burung, Kampong Jalan Baru, Balik Pulau
Tel: 012-408 0678
Messenger: m.me/countrysidestablespenang

Kuala Sungai Pinang

Kuala Sungai Pinang is a traditional fishing village that looks like it is frozen in time. It is worth a visit if you have never been to a fishing village and curious about the daily life of a fisherman. At the village, you get to see fishermen tending their nets while their old-school boats sway gently at the dock, or just enjoy the view of the villagers hustling for the catch of the day. It is simply nostalgic. Besides that, some of the friendly fishermen offer boat rides until the mangrove area and the nearby surroundings. Kuala Sungai Pinang may just be the place for poetic inspiration.

 

Titi Kerawang Waterfall

A cascading waterfall and natural pool await visitors at a scenic road between Balik Pulau and Teluk Bahang, on the western side of the island. Since there are few waterfalls in Penang, a visit to this waterfall, which the locals call Titi Kerawang, is a must. The cool environment and dense greenery make the waterfall an ideal picnic spot. Local people normally come here in droves during the weekends and public holidays for recreation.

Stepping Stone Centre

The centre showcases a variety of high quality crafts which can be purchased. These include hand woven scarves, tie and dye bags in vibrant colours, home-made soaps, candles, etc. All products are made by members with special needs who have channeled their skills and abilities into a viable career. Stepping Stone is a support centre for community living run by an NGO, the Asia Community Service.

Address

53, Jalan Bharu, Bukit Satu, MK 1 Pulau Betong, Balik Pulau

Contact Number
+604 866 5349

Bao Sheng Durian Farm

Your visit to Balik Pulau is not complete if you did not go to a durian farm. In fact, every year between May and August, durian is the only fruit that draws visitors from near and far to Balik Pulau. There is this farm in Balik Pulau called Bao Sheng, which offers its visitors a compelling durian tasting experience. Savor the distinctive taste of Malaysia’s king of fruits in their tasting sessions as you learn about various types of durians and how to pick the best ones.

Address:
150 Mukim 2, Sungai Pinang, 11010 Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +6012-411 0600 / +6012-401 0800
E-mail: bsfarm@durian.com.my
Website: http://www.durian.com.my

Matahari Cycle Tours, Balik Pulau

One of the best ways to explore Balik Pulau is on two wheels as you can easily meander through the villages and go off-the-beaten path to really get to know the locals. Matahari Cycle Tours is one of the prominent tour agencies that promotes the area. Cycling through Balik Pulau will allow you plenty of opportunities to get a perfect photo of the traditional villages, plantations, paddy fields and the farms.

Matahari Cycle Tours Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Contact No: +6019-4480440 (Mr Syed and Ms Princillia)
E-mail: mataharicycle@gmail.com
Website: http://www.cyclematahari.com