Categories
Tourism Malaysia

THE HAVEN: LUXURY AND NATURE COMBINED

Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of Ipoh, the capital city of the state of Perak, The Haven (thehavenresorts.com) is not an ordinary place where you sit, sleep and relax. This 5-star award-winning accommodation is more than a mere hotel, going above and beyond to deliver a luxurious experience to those looking for quiet rest in the arms of nature.

Located within a prehistoric valley dating back some 200 million years old and against a backdrop of stunning limestone outcrops, The Haven is, quite simply, a serene resort that exudes a chill and relaxed vibe. Stepping into its grounds, one can heave a big sigh of relief as though a huge burden has been lifted off one’s shoulders.

Perhaps it is the primary forest that surrounds the area, a green lung that supplies an abundance of oxygen, so you can breathe easy. Perhaps it is the calm natural lake at the heart of the resort which beckons you to release all worries. Or perhaps it is the air of tranquillity that seems to envelop the entire space.

For nature lovers, the place exceeds all expectations. The resort blends itself well with nature. In fact, not a single tree was cut or a hill blasted during its development. The gigantic 14-storey high 280-million-year-old limestone rainforest outcrop amidst the pristine lake was preserved and is now a major landmark of the resort.

Meanwhile, the landscaping in the area creates a garden ambience that even attracts birds, butterflies and other insects. Trees, shrubs, creepers and flowering plants have been cleverly used to define areas, provide shade, improve air quality, conceal security fences, create a smooth flow of passage, and provide a habitat for natural wildlife; several species of tropical plants were incorporated into the garden as natural mosquito and insect repellent, too.

Set against this lush flora and fauna is a 600-metre jogging track that loops around the lake, a restaurant, badminton, squash and tennis courts, a gym, a clubhouse, a 60-metre sea-horse shaped swimming pool, full conference facilities, a spa, and more.

Its garden setting is a choice wedding venue, especially for those who prefer an outdoor party with a difference.

The Haven takes pride in its 100 renewable energy practices from composting to rain-harvesting, from usage of LED lights with sensors to architecture that enhances the natural flow of wind, air and light – and aims for a cleaner and greener earth.

Just a 15-minute drive from Ipoh, the capital of Perak, The Haven offers 150 units of 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom suites. Each comes with a spacious living hall, dining area and balcony.

With all facilities and amenities in place to cater to any traveller, this Malaysia Tourism Award-winning resort is the ideal place to unwind or chill with family members – or all by yourself!

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

BEING IN THE ZEN

Ahhh…who doesn’t love a good massage? In fact, just entering a spa centre and inhaling its pleasant aromas already melt away half of your aches and pains. Imagine what a good hour of pummeling and kneading would do to the rest of it!

 

Due to our multi-cultural population, Malaysians are the lucky recipients of some awesome traditional treatments that combine massage techniques, tools and local ingredients that are prepared into massage oils and potions.

 

After a tired day of touring your favourite spots in Malaysia, surely a massage would be a welcome relief? If you have a chance, book a session at these award-winning spa centres, who were duly recognized at the 20th Malaysia Tourism Awards 2016/2017. You won’t be disappointed!

 

SPA VILLAGE BY TANJONG JARA

WINNER OF BEST SPA (HOTEL/RESORT CATEGORY), MALAYSIA TOURISM AWARDS 2016/2017

 

Location: The Tanjong Jara Spa Village is located by the sea in Terengganu’s beautiful coastal village of Dungun. It sits within the sprawling grounds of Tanjong Jara luxury resort, a relaxing hideaway reminiscent of a Malay kampong.

Ambience: The spa pavilion faces the South China Sea and offers the chance for quiet reflection and contemplation. It is nice to have the wide open sea right in front of you as well, and one can easily be lulled into a restful state just by watching the waves come to shore. This beautiful complex of structures, gardens and pools, houses a therapy centre featuring programs for relaxation, reinvigoration and stress relief based on traditional healing methods.

 

Treatment philosophy: Spa Village’s treatment philosophy is rooted in the ancient Malay way of life that emphasises purity of spirit, health and well-being, a philosophy they call “Sucimurni.” Local ingredients are sourced and concocted into potent oils, creams and scrubs.

 

These unique restorative Malay treatments have been handed down from generation to generation, ensuring their authenticity, and therapeutic value. With a history of more than a thousand years, the practices are believed to have their origins in the convergence of Malay, Arab, Indian and Chinese influences during the days of the Malacca Sultanate.

Signature touch: Try out the Malay Signature Experience that extensively uses parts of the Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) in a “three-course” experience consisting of the asam relaxing massage and the Roselle cream scrub, ending with a perfect cup of Roselle tea. The Roselle flower has vitamin C, fruit acids, calcium, iron, potassium and has long been used in traditional medicines. Together with other local herbs and spices such as galangal, ginger, nutmeg and coconut, the treatment delivers a soothing and aromatic experience.

 

Tip: Being in the east coast by the sea will get you closer to the traditional Malay way of life and it’s an opportunity to see how the farming and fishing communities here survive in such a beautiful and relaxing environment. Dungun is a fantastic small town that delivers on great food, beautiful seaside scenery and the authentic Malay lifestyle.

 

BANYAN SPA, IPOH

WINNER OF BEST SPA (INDIVIDUAL PREMISE CATEGORY), MALAYSIA TOURISM AWARDS 2016/2017

 

Location: Banyan Spa is strategically located right in the middle of Ipoh town in the state of Perak. While the vibe within this wellness centre is so “zen,” the central location means that we get the best of Ipoh, too, recently hailed as a hip and happening destination.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ambience: What used to be a century-old colonial house has been transformed into a warm and cozy wellness centre that’s very inviting. Considered one of the best wellness centers in Ipoh, it brings about a “kampong feeling” despite being located within a busy city. The tropical-styled zen garden is home to individual attap sheds where private treatments are carried out.

 

Due to its location within a thriving city centre, Banyan Spa intends to provide a sanctuary for its guests to escape the hustle and bustle. The spacious compound, soothing sounds of water and aromatic air immediately lend a sense of peace.

 

Treatment philosophy: It provides a full range of treatments such as massages, facials and manicures and pedicures for the busy person working in the city. As a one-stop centre, it offers detox, lymphatic drainage, body peeling, Chinese traditional massage, reflexology, aromatherapy massage and others. In other words, you can get all your wellness needs addressed here.

 

Signature touch: The Banyan Exclusive Spa Treatment begins with a luxurious rose bath, which then proceeds on to a bamboo-and-lotus body scrub. The client is then wrapped up in clay, algae and marine minerals, before finally receiving a gentle aromatic massage to bring balance and harmony.

 

Another unique treatment here is the Chroma Therapy which uses the seven colours of the spectrum to enhance the body’s seven chakras and stimulate the healing process.

 

Tip: When in Ipoh, one must certainly indulge in its street food offerings. After all, in a New York Times article “Why Ipoh, Malaysia, should be on your travel radar,” its vast choices of local fare was highlighted as a star attraction. Ipoh is also a great starting point to learn about Malaysia’s colonial history and a walking tour of its heritage area is highly recommended as many of the old buildings and landmarks still stand.

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE

Malaysia may not have a city of love like France but this country isn’t short of romantic places to go or romantic things to do especially in the month of love. Let us share with you some ideas on how to spend a special day with your loved ones. Follow the Cupid’s arrow to see these top five activities:-

1. Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra, Kuala Lumpur
Spend a romantic evening by watching Conductor Karen Durgaryan and the Ballet of Armenia entertain their audience with memorable performances of scenes from Tchaikovsky’s greatest ballet scores, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. Swan Lake, one of the most popular ballets in the world, tells the story of evil sorcerer Von Rothbart who turned Princess Odette into a swan. The ever-popular Christmas Eve tale of Clara and The Nutcracker never fails to delight audiences of all ages.

The Petronas Philharmonic Hall is a premier concert hall providing a world-class musical experience. It is the home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), an internationally acclaimed home-grown orchestra. The annual schedule here includes chamber music, contemporary music and commissioned works

Getting There:
By Train
Take a train from any station within Klang Valley area and make your way to KLCC Station (KJ10).

By Taxi
Numerous and convenient, taxis are a popular way of traveling. Always request the driver to switch on the fare meter before your journey. The taxis can easily drop you off around Suria KLCC’s main entrance.

By Car
Access KLCC through Jalan Ampang, Jalan P. Ramlee and Jalan Kia Peng.
Tunnels at Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Tun Razak, and the Ampang – Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH) are also directly connected to the KLCC Parking Bays.

Date: 2-4 February 2018
Venue: Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra
Level Two, Tower Two, PETRONAS Twin Tower
Kuala Lumpur City Centre
50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel : +603 2331 7008 (General Line)
+603 2331 7007 (Ticket Booking)
Website: http://mpo.com.my

The Petronas Philharmonic Hall is a premier concert hall providing a world-class musical experience. It is the home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), an internationally acclaimed home-grown orchestra. The annual schedule here includes chamber music, contemporary music, and commissioned works.

2. Kampung Kuantan Fireflies, Kuala Selangor

The fireflies of Kampung Kuantan gained prominence in the early 1970s when a local businessman saw the commercial potential of this miracle. Now, the tourism experience has been entrusted to and developed by the Kuala Selangor District Council. It has expanded rapidly with the addition of 27 small boats that are provided for the visitors. Today, Kampung Kuantan is known for the magical fireflies not only to the local visitors but also around the world.

Operational Hour             : Daily: 7.00pm – 10.30pm
Fare/Rate                           : RM53.00 per boat (4pax)

Getting There
Transportation System to Kampung Kuantan

The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kampung Kuantan takes about 45 minutes. Taxi service is available from Kuala Selangor to Kampung Kuantan at RM40.00 for a ride (4 people). However, there are few places of accommodation that provides transportation facilities to Kampung Kuantan.

Public Facilities

The administrator of the firefly’s area provides free parking space, food stalls and souvenir stalls. There is also a playground specifically for those who bring their children. Cruising the river using the traditional way will provide satisfaction for the visitors to watch the beauty of the magnificent fireflies. The usage of the small boats will also avoid sound and smoke pollution that can disrupt the firefly’s habitat.

Who to Contact                : Kuala Selangor District Council
E-mail                                                   : ydp@mdks.gov.my / sumd@mdks.gov.my / msaad@mdks.gov.my

Tel                                          : 03-32891439 / 1549

Website: http://www.mdks.gov.my/en

DAZZLING LIGHTS OF THE FIREFLIES AT KAMPUNG KUANTAN

3. Love Boat, Putrajaya

Show your loved ones how special they are by treating them to a romantic evening on the lake of Putrajaya. Take a ride on a traditional wooden boat called the “Dondang Sayang”. Let the Love Boat set the stage for a nostalgic or romantic evening, with uninterrupted views of Putrajaya’s most breathtaking sights.

The boat is manned by a single boatman. It is best to enjoy the ride in the evening from 5pm or any time before sunset as you will get to witness an astonishing view of Putrajaya from the lake. The Love Boat package is inclusive of an hour ride, as well as food and beverages.

This is one of the main bridges in Putrajaya, connecting Precinct 2 to the residential area of Precinct 8. The design of this cable-stayed bridge resembles a futuristic ship. Spanning 2.4km, this bridge can accommodate motorized traffic, bicycles, and pedestrians. Highly visible even from afar, it has become one of the beautiful icons of Putrajaya.

Getting There  :

By rail:

  • 25 minutes on KLIA Transit from KL Sentral to Putrajaya ERL station
  • 15 minutes on KLIA Transit from KLIA to Putrajaya ERL station

By bus:

  • 30 minutes by Rapid KL bus or Metrobus from Kota Raya bus stop (KL)

 By taxi or car

  • 30 minutes from KL City

 Contact Information

Should you wish to charter a boat for a private function or merely visit the scenic spots of Putrajaya, you may contact for more details:

CRUISE TASIK PUTRAJAYA
Jeti Putra, Jambatan Putra, Presint 1, 62000 Putrajaya, Malaysia.
Tel: (603) 8888 5539
Fax: (603) 8888 3769
E-mail: sales@cruisetasikputrajaya.com

Website: http://www.cruisetasikputrajaya.com

4. Couples’ Healthy Getaway @ The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Perak

Treat yourself and your other half to a truly romantic and healthy getaway at the award-winning, luxurious 5-star retreat, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, located in Ipoh, Perak. It is perfect for all love birds out there who are in need of a rejuvenating experience. Here in this lovely retreat, you can choose to do as much or as little as you want on your couples healthy holiday.

From a couple’s spa treatment massage to dipping at the geothermal hot springs dipping pools, to soaking in the natural sauna formed in the dark interiors of the thermal steam cave, it is guaranteed that all these sessions are sure to leave you and your partner feeling brand new.

As an adults-only resort, your romantic holiday here will not be interrupted by the presence of screaming babies or running toddlers. It’s also serious in helping guests achieve their goals for optimum health with holistic tailor-made programmes and pre-planned packages for as short as 2 nights or as long as three weeks. Besides the geothermal hot springs treatments, guests can request for weight-loss management and detox programmes, colon hydrotherapy, and antioxidant restoration therapy, among others.
After all, couples who sweat together, stay together.

THE BANJARAN – PERAK

Getting There

Travel by Car/Taxi

The Banjaran is just 15 minutes away from the city of Ipoh, 1.5 hours from Penang and 2 hours from the capital of Kuala Lumpur by road. Ipoh is located on the North-South Highway, to the north of Kuala Lumpur. Take the Ipoh South Toll Plaza Exit No. 138 if you come from Kuala Lumpur, and the Ipoh North Toll Plaza (Jelapang) Exit No. 141 if you come from Penang. Do look out for road signs that lead you to The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat along the road from either one of the exits.

GPS Coordinates to The Banjaran:

4° 37′ 51″ N 101° 9′ 20″ E

Travel by Train

Enjoy scenic views during the 2.5-hour journey to Ipoh on the ETS Train. There are daily services from KL Sentral in Kuala Lumpur to the Ipoh train station. Ipoh is on the Singapore-Kuala Lumpur-Penang-Bangkok route, so there are also trains to and from Penang and all the way to and from Bangkok. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat can arrange for transfers from the train station.

Travel by Air – Chartered Helicopter

The Banjaran has its own on-site helipad facility for helicopter travel. Please call in advance as landing is strictly by appointment only. For more details on chartered helicopter services and helipad facilities please contact the Sales and Marketing Department at +603 7495 1791 or email them at tbhr.info@sunwayhotels.com.

Who to Contact

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Tel          : +60 5 210 7777

Email     : tbhr.info@sunwayhotels.com

Website: https://www.thebanjaran.com

  1.  Watch the Sunset @ Kuching Waterfront, Sarawak

“ sunset is the sun’s fiery kiss to the night.”

― Crystal Woods

WATER FRONT – SARAWAK

Some things are inherently romantic and a gorgeous sunset is one of them, so cuddle close to the one you love and watch the magnificent sunset change colors right before your eyes at the Kuching Waterfront in Sarawak. Also known as Kuching Esplanade, the sunset here is very dramatic and with the wooden sampan and wooden houses on stilts in the background, it is not just romantic but will also conjure up scenes of yesteryear. What could be more romantic than that?

You can sit with your other half at one of the many wooden benches provided along the Kuching Waterfront that run parallel with the Sarawak River, or you can opt for a sunset cruise and enjoy the environment and the scenery of this city of contrast.

For more information on Kuching Waterfront, please visit https://kuchingwaterfront.com, or contact:

Sarawak Tourism Board

Tel          : +6082 423600

Email     : stb@sarawaktourism.com

Website: https://sarawaktourism.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

Divine Diversions

Malaysia is known for its freedom of religion as enshrined in its constitution. And this right is evident in the many religious symbols and buildings seen throughout the country. Mosques, temples, churches, gurdwaras and others…they cater not only for the believers, but with the popularity of “religious tourism” more people are interested to visit, see and learn about the religious, cultural and aesthetic significance of such places of worship.

With Chinese New Year just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to visit some of the temples in Malaysia.

If you are in the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, there is just no shortage of temples to visit. Among the notable ones is Thean Hou Temple that sits along Jalan Klang Lama or Old Klang Road. Built in 1894, it is believed to be one of the oldest and largest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia. The name is derived from Goddess Tian Hou who protects the fishermen.

This magnificent Chinese temple has golden roofed pagodas and strings of lanterns. Located inside are three majestic statues of deities, including the main deity Thean Hou. Within its grounds are statues of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac

The Temple is also known as the Temple of Goddess of Heaven, and reflecting this is its beautiful 6-tiered structure that houses a zen turtle pond, the sacred Bodhi tree and many prayer halls. A visit here is to escape the chaotic traffic jam that Jalan Klang Lama is famous for, and a balm for the stressful mind.

Tourists heading north along the PLUS highway will find temples of a different kind, partly a reflection of the unique geological contours of Perak known for its splendid limestone hills and caves.

Perak, once famous as a tin mining haven, attracted many Chinese workers to the area in search of riches. Naturally, there are many temples in the area to serve the burgeoning community.

As a capital city of Perak, Ipoh is dotted with various temples, mostly nestled among the hills and hidden away in caves. One such temple is the Sam Poh Tong Temple. It is said to be one of the oldest temples, even as old as Ipoh itself.

SAM POH TONG TAMPLE – IPOH

The temple gained popularity for its unique landscape and the caves which were carved and made into chamber halls and altars. Practically built into the limestone

inside a mountain, the temple’s unique ambience and peaceful nature adds to the sanctity of the place.

Apart from that, the temple is also popular for its collection of tortoise ponds. According to Chinese beliefs, turtles and tortoises are much associated with longevity and wealth.

Traveling east to Muslim-majority Kelantan, known as “Serambi Mekah” or  Verandah of Mecca,” one might not expect to see any temples. Surprise, surprise, one of the popular tours in Kelantan is to visit all the Buddhist temples in the state!

Whether they are Chinese or Siamese temples, the existence of such places of worship only drive home the fact that religion is freely practised throughout the state.

Tok Mek Temple in Kampung Cina, Kelantan, stands out among all other temples for its historic significance and origins. Officially known as Tin Hin Kong temple, it is reputedly the most famous Taoist temple in the state.

TOK MEK KONG TAMPLE

Known to the locals as Tokong Mek, it welcomes visitors with a bright red arch into an inner courtyard designed with colourful murals and wall relief. What is so special about the place is that therein lies within the temple a drum that was a royal gift from the Sultan of Kelantan.

While these three temples stand out among Malaysia’s landscape as unique, there are hundreds of other temples scattered all over Malaysia that deserve a visit. Some examples are the Centipede Temple in Seremban and the Snake Temple in Penang. It’s just a matter of choosing whichever temple is nearest to you, and don’t forget your photography gear to capture that viral-worthy shot!

 

Temple:   Thean Hou
Address:  65, Persiaran Indah, off Jalan Syed Putra, Kuala Lumpur
Telephone:  +603-2274 7088

Temple:   Sam Poh Tong
Address:  Gunung Rapat, Ipoh, Perak
Telephone:  +605-255 2772

Temple:   Tok Mek
Address:  Jalan Kampung Cina off Jalan Pantai Cinta Berahi, 15300 Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Telephone:  +609-748 4477

 

*number may be updated/changed without prior notice

 

Inshot Para PC Inshot IDM Kuyhaa MX Player Download for PC

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

5 reasons to visit Pangkor Island

By Aura Farrando Image: Pulau Pangkor and its many islands

By Aura Farrando
Image: Pulau Pangkor and its many islands

Searching for that perfect weekend getaway? Perhaps something a little quieter than tourist hotspots like Langkawi and Perhentians? Look no further than Pangkor Island, located off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the state of Perak, just 90km from Ipoh. It has everything you want for an island escape — and so much more — with sleepy fishing villages, relaxed atmosphere and amazing views. Here’s our Top 5 for Pangkor Island.

 

  1. Perfect Location

Unlike other beach destinations in Malaysia, Pangkor Island is quite easy to get to. You can drive or catch a bus from Kuala Lumpur to the ferry port at Lumut. The ferry from Lumut to Pangkor take 35 minutes and operates 7am to 8.30pm daily. Pangkor also has an airport, with Berjaya Air flying there three times a week. Once on the island, the best mode of transport is by scooter. Renting a scooter is relatively cheap, and will allow to you to cover most within 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can hail one of the island’s famed pink taxis.

Image: Pangkor’s famous pink taxis. — http://www.pangkorislandhomestay.com

Image: Pangkor’s famous pink taxis. — http://www.pangkorislandhomestay.com

2. Beaches and water sports

 Pangkor is just 8 square kilometres, but you’ll be surprised how much you can do, and what you can see. Of course, sun baking on the beach is the most popular pastime for visitors, with Nipah and Coral beach often dotted with holiday makers. There are also two small islands nearby — Giam and Mentagor — that are perfect for snorkelling with an array of coral, sea cucumbers and other sea life to be found. If you’re more adventurous, grab a kayak and circumnavigate the islands. Pasir Bogak is another famous beach, just 2km from Pangkor Town and it is the best place for jet skiing and parasailing.

Image: Snorkelling in Pangkor

Image: Snorkelling in Pangkor

  1. Food

With a thriving local fishing scene, it’s no coincidence that the choice of seafood is amazing. The main catch is cuttlefish and anchovies. Selling dried fish is still an important part of the economy, with locals often transporting large bags of dried anchovies from the port, to the mainland and to the markets. You’ll most likely experience a taste of these anchovies at breakfast with your nasi lemak. At evening, head to the many beachside restaurants and order ikan bakar or grilled fish. What more could you want to end your day. Oh, and it’s cheap, too.

 

  1. Explore by foot

If, for some reason, you are allergic to the ocean, there’s also plenty to do on land. There’s an uphill trek across the island with great vantage points of the local wildlife, particularly the hornbill. You can even feed these gracious birds every day at 6.30pm at Sunset View Chalet. Its owner Nordin Bakar has been feeding the island’s population of hornbills for the past 12 years. For nature lovers and hikers, also check out the jungle trails at Teluk Segadas Hill and Titi Ganung.

 

Pangkor Island has some must-see historical landmarks, too. The island has always been a trading enclave in the state of Perak. The vestiges of history can be traced in the Dutch Fort built in the 17th century. The reason behind its construction was to monopolise the tin trade in Perak and protect the Perak Chieftan.

Image: Hornbills rule the island

Image: Hornbills rule the island

  1. Relax and indulge

Pangkor Laut provides the ultimate luxurious experience. This private island is next to the bigger and busier Pangkor Island. The resort includes 140 villas and suites and has 300 acres of rainforest as a playground. If you feel like splurging, you can stay in the huge Pavarotti Suite. The tenor sang at the launch of the resort in 1994 and said the island was “paradise”. Other celebrities who have stayed here include Michael Schumacher, Eric Cantona and Michelle Yeoh. The resort will also organise your transport to and from the island. More information: http://www.pangkorlautresort.com/

Image: Paradise, Pangkor Laut Resort

Image: Paradise, Pangkor Laut Resort