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Tourism Malaysia

Tanjung Piai & Kukup

Tanjung Piai Kukup Easy Trip, Johor

 

SUGGESTION ITINERARY

9.00am

Tanjung Piai National Park

 

Tanjung Piai National Park, Johor

 

Address:  Mukim Serkat, 82030 Pontian, Johor
Tel: +607-6969712
Cost:  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.


WHERE TO STAY

Hai Tang Resort
Address:  Air Masin, 82300 Kukup, Pontian, Johor
Ratings: Chalet
Tel: +607-6960635 or +6012-7673222
Cost:  From RM70 per pax
What:  A clean and pleasant chalet with sunrise and sunset views from the front and back of the house respectively.  Meals such as lunch at a famous local seafood restaurant and dinner (BBQ or Steamboat) included.  

Tanjung Piai Resort
Address:  Kampung Tanjung Piai, Serkat, 82300 Kukup
Ratings: Chalet
Tel: +607- 696 0011
Cost:  From RM100 per room
What:  A very basic accommodation with minimal facilities.  The exterior of this resort on stilts is appealing, though, with nice, modern looking windows and a gazebo.


Kukup Resort Golf Resort
Pekan Penerok, 82300 Pontian
Tel : +607 – 6960950?Fax : +607 – 6960963

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

Chiselling Through Batu Pahat

Batu Pahat, Johor


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Recommended Itenerary


Optional:

ROASTED CHESTNUT KING
Address: Jalan Soga (Located right outside Eng Motors, on the right side of Courts Mammoth)
Cost: RM20 per kg
Operating Hours: 9AM-9PM
What: Known throughout town as the roasted chestnut king, Ah Chiang has been in the chestnut business for years, waiting by his trustee peddling stall and roasting up crunchy chestnuts on the spot for customers.
Must-try: Roasted chestnuts.

CHOP SEE KEE COFFEESHOP
Address: Jalan Jenang
Cost: RM3.20 (Big), RM2.70 (Small)
Operating Hours: Daytime
What: Known as Ah See wantan mee, it is the Batu Pahat’s famous wantan mee.
Must-try: Wantan mee.

SEMBRONG LAKE
Address: 10KM from Air Hitam town
Cost: Free
Operating Hours: Anytime
What: This is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts to gather and throw their baits for catches like toman, belida, kelah, terbul and many more.


Where to stay:

THE KATERINA HOTEL
Address: 8, Jalan Zabedah, 83000 Batu Pahat
Tel : +6 07 433 7111
Web: www.katerinahotel.com
Cost: From RM180nett
Rating:  4-star rating
What: This 15-storey hotel consists of 6 Premier Suites, 9 Family Suites,10 Executive Suites and 160 Deluxe Rooms. The hotel blends the luxurious European architecture with top notch Asian hospitality that makes you feel right at home.

GARDEN HOTEL
Address: 29, Jalan Jenang, 83000 Batu Pahat
Tel: +6 07 431 5999
Cost: From RM98nett
Rating: 2-star rating
What: Located right at the heart of town, all convenient amenities are just right at your doorstep in Garden Hotel so you do not have to stray too far away to enjoy the best of Batu Pahat.

REST HOUSE BATU PAHAT
Address: 870, Jalan Tasek, 83000 Batu Pahat
Tel: +6 07 431 6122
Cost: From RM58nett
What: Built since 1895 at the insistence of Sultan Ibrahim, who wanted to provide a resting place for visiting expatriates, this simple colonial accommodation is strategically located surrounded with scenic view and a quiet environment.

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

A Weekend At The Greater Desaru

Desaru, Johor

 

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WHERE TO EAT
SENGAT SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Teluk Sengat, Kota Tinggi, Johor
(Tel.: +6 07 895 5116; Teluk Sengat; From RM150 per group of 10; Time: 11.30AM-10PM)
What: One of the many seafood restaurants available in Kota Tinggi that serves fresh catches of the day. Diners get to enjoy tasty meals by the seafront, watching the sunset.Why: After a full day of activities, you deserve to treat yourself to a satisfying meal of seafood freshly caught from the sea.
Must try: Nyonya fish, Chilli crab, and Pepper crab.


WHAT TO DO
CROC WORLD TELUK SENGAT
Teluk Sengat, Kota Tinggi, Johor
(Tel.: +6 07 895 5220; Teluk Sengat; Adult/Child: RM8/RM4; Time: 9AM-6PM)
What: Opened since the 1920s, this crocodile farm has about 1,000 salt water crocodiles, including one that is more than 135 years old!
Why: Meet the oldest inmate in Croc World, and also, if you’re brave enough, you may pet the baby crocodiles, or even kiss them!

DESARU OSTRICH FARM
Sungai Rengit, Kota Tinggi, Johor
(Tel.: +6 07 826 5846; Sungai Rengit; Adult/Child: RM10/RM6; Time: 10AM-6PM)
What: An ostrich farm with some 300 big birds roaming free in their natural habitat.Why: You can get up close and personal with the birds, maybe try out some delectable dishes made out of ostrich eggs, such as satay and marble cake, or even purchase some lamps made out of empty ostrich eggshells.

DESARU FRUIT FARM
Desaru, Kota Tinggi, Johor
(Tel.: +6 07 822 5886; http://www.desaruff.com; Desaru; Adult/Child: RM18/RM15; Time: 8AM-6PM)
What: A 50-acre fruit farm with a huge collection of fruits growing, such as durian, rambutan and mangosteen, papaya, banana, pineapple and many more.
Why: Try out a table full of fruits freshly plucked from the orchard, and even buy a few bundles back.

TANJUNG BALAU FISHING VILLAGE
Tanjung Balau, Kota Tinggi, Johor
(Tanjung Balau; Adult/Child: Free; Time: Daytime)
What: A popular beach with a commercialised fishing village, equipped with facilities such as a food court, children’s playground and souvenir shop.Why: It is a good place for photo enthusiasts to take pictures, and for families to spend a day there relaxing. If you’re lucky, you can meet up with the fishermen coming back with the catch of the day!

FIREFLIES WATCHING
Johor River, Kota Tinggi, Johor
(Tel.: +6 019 779 6385 (Mr Liew – Bujang Boat Service); Johor River; Adult/Child: RM20 per person; Time: From 7.15PM, 45 minutes per trip)
What: A night river cruise along Johor River to check out the abundant firefly colony there. Meals can be provided upon prior request.Why: A quiet and serene way to end your hectic day being in the midst of one of nature’s most beautiful creatures.


WHERE TO STAY
BOB’S HOMESTAY RESORT
Kota Tinggi, Johor
(Tel.: +6 019 355 8889; http://www.bobshomestayresort.com; Kota Tinggi; From RM70)
What: Humble abodes by the Johor River with a host, Bob, who welcomes you with open arms.
Why: You can experience the kampung life in Johor complete with cultural performances and a riverside BBQ, as well as hop on the heritage trail nearby to get to know the history of Johor a little bit more.

DESARU HOLIDAY CHALETS
Desaru, Johor
(Tel.: +6 07 822 1212; http://www.desaruresort.com; Desaru; From RM120nett)
What: The first resort to be opened in Desaru since 1974, with well-maintained and spacious chalets for a quiet family retreat by the beach.
Why: You get to enjoy a bunch of beach, sea and land activities, such as sailing, canoeing, trekking and go-karting, or you can just lay by the beach and take in the serenity.

SEBANA COVE MARINA RESORT
Pengerang, Johor
(Tel.: +6 07 826 6688; http://www.sebanacove.com; Pengerang; From RM280++; 4-star rating)
What: A high standard resort with one of the best marina views available. It is an architectural masterpiece amidst natural surroundings, with a wide range of facilities and amenities.Why: If you prefer a more comfortable accommodation, as well as a waterfront view to take your breath away every morning.
 

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

Weekend at Kota Tinggi

Discover another piece of Johor that is packed with historical elements. Visit the Kota Tinggi Museum to get a detailed encounter since the establishment of the Johor Sultanate, which happened in the very town of Kota Tinggi. Or escape to the Gunung Panti Recreational Forest where the Kota Tinggi Waterfalls, a refreshing and cooling cascade that has captured the hearts of many. Just when you thought you are done unveiling the many secrets of Johor, here are a few more to get your weekend a little more interesting.

Duration: Overnight trip
Suitable for: Families

 

Recommended itinerary:
8AM-10AM

RESTORAN SOON JI
Address: 75 Jalan Bunga Rose, Taman Sri Kulai Baru, 81000 Kulai
Tel.: +6 019 785 6868 Operating Hours: 6AM-10PM
Cost: RM4
What: A restaurant in Kulai that serves steaming noodle dishes in claypots that start your day out just right.
Must-try: Seafood noodle, Beef noodle

10AM-12PM

GUNUNG PANTI RECREATIONAL FOREST
Address: Jalan Lombong, Kota Tinggi Operating Hours: Daytime
Cost: Free
What: Gunung Panti is a popular training ground for trekkers about to embark on higher-scaled mountains. It is a 2-3 hours hike to the summit, and the view from the top is breathtaking. It is also a well-equipped recreational forest with comfortable accommodations for those who wish to stay the night.

12PM-2PM

KOTA TINGGI WATERFALLS
Address: Jalan Lombong, Kota Tinggi Operating Hours: Daytime
Cost: RM9
What: The waterfall cascades some 34 meters from Gunung Muntahak and its surrounding area is refreshing and cooling, so much so that it drops to about 3ºC in the morning. It comes with a serene jungle and comfortable chalets for shacking up for the night nearby. There is even a mini water theme park going on.

2PM-4PM

KOTA TINGGI MUSEUM
Address: Jalan Mawai, Kota Tinggi
Tel.: +6 07 883 4943 / +6 07 883 1498    Operating Hours: 9AM-4PM, closed on Friday
Cost: Free
What: Opened since 2002, the museum received 50,000 visitors last year and is considered as one of the most important historical references of the Johor Sultanate. It’s complete with explanation on how the Malaccan Empire settled and magnified its rule in Johor and how the conflicts between Portuguese, Achehnese and other super powers took place in the span of hundreds of years.

4PM-6PM

RIVERSIDE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Address: Jalan Jemaluang, Kota Tinggi  Operating Hours: Daytime
Cost: Around RM25    
What: Located along the Kota Tinggi bypass expressway and just next to Johor River, the restaurant serves sumptuous dishes of seafood and beyond that will definitely make up for the activities you have done for the day.
Must-try: Fish head soup, ginger wild boar.


Optional:

HOMESTAY VISITS
Address: Kampung Lukut, Kota Tinggi
Tel.: En Mohd Noh Bin Lawang: +6 012 710 5680 / +6 07 883 1508 Operating Hours: By appointment
Cost: From RM100
What: Experience an authentic Malay lifestyle when you visit Kampung Lukut’s homestay in Kota Tinggi. Activities include visiting their kuih siput factory, learning on the making of Lukut sugar canes, and savouring on their organically grown vegetables and fruits while enjoying cultural shows featuring Malay traditional dances.

RESTORAN SIN KEONG KEE
Address: Jalan Susur Kulai 2, 81000 Kulai?Operating Hours: Daytime
Cost:
What: Located on the same row as Public Bank in Kulai, this is a restaurant that serves one of the best roasted ducks in Kulai town.
Must-try: Roasted duck.    


Where to stay:


KOTA RAINFOREST RESORT
Address: Lot 4483, Batu 8, Jalan Lombong, 81900 Kota Tinggi
Tel.: +6 07 889 0030
Web: www.kota-rainforest.com.my
Cost: From RM115++
Rating: None
What: Located along the main road leading towards the Kota Tinggi Waterfalls and Gunung Panti Recreational Forest, the resort has 28 comfortable and fully-furnished chalets to keep you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

MAYRES HOTEL Address: 29 Jalan Tun Habab, 81900 Kota Tinggi
Tel.: +6 07 883 9099
Web: www.mayreshotel.com
Cost: From RM104.50nett
Rating: 3-star
What: Located in the middle of Kota Tinggi town, Mayres Hotel offers top notch accommodation to visiting tourists who look for a comfortable place to rest their heads with a budget price tag.

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Categories
Tourism Malaysia

Mulling Over Muar

Muar is said to be rich in history, some believing that its story started earlier than the Sultanate of Melaka, while some said that it was once under the Majapahit empire ruling. Although there are no historical records today as evidence, there are still standing architectural buildings dating back to the time when it all began. Hop on the historical trail to learn all about it. Just remember to charge your camera batteries before you go on the historical trail. While over in Tangkak, there lies the legendary Gunung Ledang, as well as the famous Tangkak beef noodles and textile town. So, stay a weekend in Muar and let the whispering legends carry you away.

Duration: Overnight trip
Suitable for: Families

 

Recommended itinerary:

Day One:
10AM-12PM

GLUTTON STREET
(Jalan Haji Abu; From RM5; Time: Daytime)
What: Dubbed Glutton Street for all the obvious reasons, there are hawker vendors lined on both sides of the street that runs as long as one and a half blocks down. Each vendor serves their own specialty and they are all made to order so you are guaranteed to have your food while it’s still hot. Why: First things first upon arriving in Muar is to settle the tummy business. An optimum place in town to go all out, and you are bound to come back for seconds and thirds because there are just too much to try!
Must-try: Fried noodles, fried radish cakes, otak-otak.


12PM-5PM

HISTORICAL TRAIL IN MUAR
(Muar; Time: Daytime)
What: Muar is an architecturally rich town, with buildings that have been around since the late 1800s and early 1900s. Such notable buildings include the Royal Customs and Excise Building, Muar High School, Masjid Jamek Sultan Ibrahim, Dutch Houses and many more. Why: After a hearty meal on Glutton Street, do what tourists do best in a new town – go sightseeing and hunting for these architecture buildings, armed with only a map, a camera and a pair of hardy legs to carry you around.
Must-visit: Muar High School, Dutch Houses, Masjid Jamek Sultan Ibrahim, Royal Customs and Excise Building.

5PM-7PM

TANJUNG EMAS RECREATIONAL PARK
(Jalan Kamariah; Time: Anytime)
What: A quiet recreational park overlooking the Muar River, where locals like to patronise for a calm evening jog or for some ikan assam pedas. Come dusk, there is a splendid view of the sunset as well. Why: Cap off your day’s historical trail at this serene park as you have a small nibble on the ikan assam pedas while enjoying the sunset view.

7PM onwards

CHUAN TIN RESTAURANT
6, Jalan Khalidi, 84000 Muar
(Tel.: +6 06 952 2579; Jalan Khalidi; RM20 per pax; Time: 5PM-11PM)
What: A seafood restaurant serving Hokkien cuisine such as suckling pig, shark’s fin soup and Buddha Jump Over the Wall. They are also famous for their seafood dishes like the crabs and fish soup. Why: After a day out wandering around Muar town, re-energise yourself with a hearty meal of delicious Hokkien food.  Must-try: Roasted crabs, Indian mee, fish soup.


Day Two:
9AM-11AM

KHENG RESTAURANT
LC 410 Jalan Payamas 84900 Tangkak
Beside The Store Shopping Centre
(Jalan Payamas; RM10; Time: 6.30AM-3PM, closed on alternate Tuesdays)
What: A coffeeshop in Tangkak that sells a variety of local food that is both filling and delicious. Why: Before proceeding to your day’s trekking at Gunung Ledang, stop by this coffeeshop for a quick but yet filling breakfast that goes a long way. Must-try: Ginger flour vermicelli, porridge, yeung chow fried rice.

11AM-4PM

GUNUNG LEDANG RECREATIONAL FOREST
(Tel.: +6 06 977 2888; http://www.ledang.com; Tangkak; Adult/Child: RM10; Time: Daytime: 3-5hours trekking)
What: Also known as Mount Ophir, Gunung Ledang is steep both in height and the legend and folklore that surround it. It is named after a beautiful princess who spurned the hand of the Sultan of Malacca. Resplendent in natural beauty, it is a magnet for picnickers, hard-core nature lovers, birdwatchers, rock-climbers and jungle trekkers.
Why: Let nature’s best take your breath away with spots like the Puteri Waterfalls, Elephant Pool (Kolam Gajah), Triangle River (Sungai Segi Tiga), Goat’s Cave (Gua Kambing) and Botak Hill. Though the road may be strenuous, the end of the journey is worthwhile.


3PM-5PM

RESTORAN KUANG FEI
(Jalan Solok; RM10; Time: 9AM-8PM)
What: When visiting, or just passing through, the Tangkak town, it is a must to try out a nice steaming bowl of their household Tangkak beef noodles. A perfect start to a perfect day for the tummy!
Why: After a day’s trekking at Gunung Ledang, stop by this coffeeshop before heading back home for a quick but yet filling lunch.
Must-try: Tangkak beef noodles.


Optional:

NASUHA SPICES AND HERBS PARADISE
KM19, Jalan Muar-Pagoh, 84500 Muar
(Tel.: +6 06 973 7608 / +6 06 973 7609; http://www.nasuhaherbsparadise.com; Pagoh; Adult/Child: RM10/RM5; Time: 8AM-5.30PM)
What: The largest herbs and spices plantation in Asia with more than 135 types of herbs. It also has a restaurant and spa with services of traditional massages and herbal baths.
Why: If there is time during your transit between Tangkak and Muar, stop by this plantation, which is right smack in the middle of the path for a tour, a meal, or even a massage, if you must.

JALAN PAYAMAS
(Tangkak; Time: Daytime)
What: Other than their beef noodles, Tangkak is also famous for its healthy production of textiles. Along Jalan Payamas, there are more than 60 stores displaying curtains of colourful and flowery cloths for sale. Why: Don’t go home empty-handed, make time to stroll down Jalan Payamas as your browse through the many colourful designs and haggle for a reasonable bargain.
Must-buy: Textile, garments, shoes, hats.


Where to stay:

MUAR TRADERS HOTEL
16, Jalan Petrie, 84000, Muar
(Tel.: +6 06 953 9100; http:// www.muartradershotel.com; Muar; From RM150nett)
What: This hotel is located strategically by the coastline, yet not straying too far from the town centre so patrons can enjoy its amenities to the fullest.    Why: Enjoy a relaxing trip down in Muar as you check-in to a room with a cheap price tag, yet it comes with a beautiful view of the coastline.

HOTEL SRI PELANGI MUAR
79 Jalan Sisi, 84000 Muar
(Tel.: +6 06 951 8088; http://www.sripelangi.com; Muar; From RM96nett; 2-star rating)
What: Situated in the heart of town with Glutton Street just a couple of blocks away, the hotel is tastefully decorated and equipped with convenient facilities for patrons staying over for leisure or business. Why: If you are one who can only sleep better knowing there is food at your disposal right at your doorstep – not to mention a cheap comfy bed too – this accommodation would be the best bet for you when travelling to Muar.


GUNUNG LEDANG RESORT
Bt 28 Jalan Segamat 84020 Sagil Tangkak
(Tel.: +6 06 977 2888; http://www.ledang.com; Tangkak; From RM50; 3-star rating)
What: Located strategically in the premise of Gunung Ledang Recreational Forest, you can enjoy the ideal nature getaway at its rugged best with room choices cater to all kinds of travellers. Why: Set up camp in one of Malaysia’s legendary destination spots as you learn more of its eco-habitats, as well as getting the escape you so well deserve.
 

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