Categories
Tourism Malaysia

TOP HOTELS IN MALAYSIA THAT TRANSPORT YOU TO A DIFFERENT WORLD

Holidays are a way to get away from the routine and
familiar. That’s why when we travel, we sometimes catch ourselves doing things
we wouldn’t normally do back home. We’re more adventurous, aren’t we, when we’re
on the road travelling. There’s a change of scenery, we’re surrounded by
strange cultures, the food is different, etc. In such an environment, we find
ourselves opening up to new experiences – we try the local food, we get out of
our comfort zone and speak to the locals, we participate in their traditions,
and more.

A romantic holiday at Colmar Tropicale, oui?

Similarly, when we check ourselves into a hotel, wouldn’t it
be nice to be surrounded by a fresh change of scene? Of course, the standard
hotels have all the comforts we could ever want, but how about passing up on
that spick and span hotel experience and jump in to a whole new “hotel”
environment?

Kids will just love to be kids at Legoland Hotel

Thematic hotels abound in Malaysia and it’s a great way to get out of our comfort zone to try something new. For kids, surely they would love the Legoland Hotel in Johor to relive their love for these iconic play bricks. Or how about Jen Hotel, also in Johor, where we hear you can check into a Hello Kitty-inspired room? Feeling a little bit French? Colmar Tropicale transports you to a Parisienne holiday in the tropics!

Love the Sanrio characters? Check into this cute Hello Kitty room at Jen Hotel!

Well, read on to see our top picks of unusual and themed accommodations that will definitely give you a fresh take on your holiday in Malaysia!

Tiarasa Escapes, Janda Baik, Pahang

Tiarasa Escapes is glamping extraordinaire for folks who want to be near nature but have issues with creepy crawlies. Rest assured that this property will put you up in exclusive tented villas surrounded by thick rainforest in the hills of Pahang…and pamper you while you are there with in-room comforts such as free-standing bathtubs, luxurious bedspreads and comfortable pillows.

Think of picnics by the bubbling brook, evening campfires to roast your marshmallows, stargazings at night, moonlight cinemas and morning walks amid the cool highland mist. Here’s where you can be the luxe-version of your Indiana Jones!

The Prestige Hotel, Penang

If you love a little magic in your life, then book a room at The Prestige Hotel in Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage enclave, but don’t mistake it as simply another Victorian heritage hotel.

Light, space and lines create unique optical illusions at Victorian-styled The Prestige

So inspired was the designer of the hotel, Colin Seah of Ministry of Design, with Christopher Nolan’s 2006 film, “The Prestige” about rival magicians in the Victorian era, that he introduced elements of optical illusion throughout the property. Take for instance the “levitating” bed that seems to float in the middle of the room, hidden doors that lead to pantries, and the piece-de-resistance of the room — the custom-designed shower and wardrobe enclosure, supposedly harking back to Houdini’s escape box!

Through subtle and clever use of light and space, geometric lines and repeated patterns, the designer leads guests to experience a little magic during their stay, so that nothing is ever quite what it seems!

Hard Rock Hotel, Desaru Coast, Johor

Fancy yourself a rockstar? Then, you’ll dig staying at the newly-opened Hard Rock Hotel in Desaru Coast, Johor. The international brand of property is renowned for its rockin’ hospitality. Check into their Rock Star Suite for some top-class Hollywood star treatment — enjoy in-room plush Sleep Like a Rock bedding, Bose sound system, and even a 15-ball American City ARAMITH 7 ft Pool Table. Pair that up with a personal concierge to meet your every whim and fancy, and you’ll have a rocking good time for sure!

Get ready to rock your holiday at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Don’t forget to explore the hotel’s Memorabilia Gallery to get you that bit closer to the rich and famous of Hollywood. On display are some of the greatest rock memorabilia, whether you’re a rocker who loves The Rolling Stones or a Rihanna fangirl!

Tanjong Jara Resort, Dungun, Terengganu

If you’re an urban dweller used to braving traffic jams and air pollution, why not retire to the east coast countryside of Malaysia and enjoy a change of pace in life? Get a room at Tanjong Jara Resort and enjoy the tranquility of this property, inspired by 17th century Malay palaces with a layout that makes you feel like you are in a typical Malay village.

Enjoy the tranquil east coast village lifestyle at the luxurious Tanjong Jara Resort

The genuine countryside charm is so authentic, even the staff that serve you are actually drawn from the local villages, who truly embody the gentle Malay art of service and hospitality. Sleep in luxuriously-appointed wooden villas, wake up to a traditional Malay breakfast, stroll along the beautiful beach, and enjoy local folk games in the afternoons. If that’s not enough, indulge in traditional beauty treatments at their Spa Village — there’s one couple’s treatment that last half a day where we hear you’ll be treated like Kings and Queens!

The Culvert, Kuching, Sarawak

Who would ever think that refurbished concrete culverts would make a cosy hotel room…well, the owners of The Culvert thought it would be unique to transform these huge cylinders of concrete and galvanised steel into rooms, and so they did! Don’t worry, you’ll still get to sleep in comfortable beds, have access to en-suite baths and even soak yourself in the free-standing bath tubs!

Beautiful sunset view at The Culvert in Kuching

On a patch of land nestled in the dense flora and undergrowth of Santubong, Kuching is this dreamy and relaxing resort that will melt away your stress. Enjoy views of the iconic Mount Santubong in the background, and frolic in the private beach nearby. Outfitted with eco-friendly room designs and an array of facilities offering adventure and relaxation, this Kuching hotel resort promises to take you on a cultural journey of Sarawak’s rainforests and rejuvenate your weary soul.

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

TOP HOTELS IN MALAYSIA THAT TRANSPORT YOU TO A DIFFERENT WORLD

Holidays are a way to get away from the routine and
familiar. That’s why when we travel, we sometimes catch ourselves doing things
we wouldn’t normally do back home. We’re more adventurous, aren’t we, when we’re
on the road travelling. There’s a change of scenery, we’re surrounded by
strange cultures, the food is different, etc. In such an environment, we find
ourselves opening up to new experiences – we try the local food, we get out of
our comfort zone and speak to the locals, we participate in their traditions,
and more.

A romantic holiday at Colmar Tropicale, oui?

Similarly, when we check ourselves into a hotel, wouldn’t it
be nice to be surrounded by a fresh change of scene? Of course, the standard
hotels have all the comforts we could ever want, but how about passing up on
that spick and span hotel experience and jump in to a whole new “hotel”
environment?

Kids will just love to be kids at Legoland Hotel

Thematic hotels abound in Malaysia and it’s a great way to get out of our comfort zone to try something new. For kids, surely they would love the Legoland Hotel in Johor to relive their love for these iconic play bricks. Or how about Jen Hotel, also in Johor, where we hear you can check into a Hello Kitty-inspired room? Feeling a little bit French? Colmar Tropicale transports you to a Parisienne holiday in the tropics!

Love the Sanrio characters? Check into this cute Hello Kitty room at Jen Hotel!

Well, read on to see our top picks of unusual and themed accommodations that will definitely give you a fresh take on your holiday in Malaysia!

Tiarasa Escapes, Janda Baik, Pahang

Tiarasa Escapes is glamping extraordinaire for folks who want to be near nature but have issues with creepy crawlies. Rest assured that this property will put you up in exclusive tented villas surrounded by thick rainforest in the hills of Pahang…and pamper you while you are there with in-room comforts such as free-standing bathtubs, luxurious bedspreads and comfortable pillows.

Think of picnics by the bubbling brook, evening campfires to roast your marshmallows, stargazings at night, moonlight cinemas and morning walks amid the cool highland mist. Here’s where you can be the luxe-version of your Indiana Jones!

The Prestige Hotel, Penang

If you love a little magic in your life, then book a room at The Prestige Hotel in Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage enclave, but don’t mistake it as simply another Victorian heritage hotel.

Light, space and lines create unique optical illusions at Victorian-styled The Prestige

So inspired was the designer of the hotel, Colin Seah of Ministry of Design, with Christopher Nolan’s 2006 film, “The Prestige” about rival magicians in the Victorian era, that he introduced elements of optical illusion throughout the property. Take for instance the “levitating” bed that seems to float in the middle of the room, hidden doors that lead to pantries, and the piece-de-resistance of the room — the custom-designed shower and wardrobe enclosure, supposedly harking back to Houdini’s escape box!

Through subtle and clever use of light and space, geometric lines and repeated patterns, the designer leads guests to experience a little magic during their stay, so that nothing is ever quite what it seems!

Hard Rock Hotel, Desaru Coast, Johor

Fancy yourself a rockstar? Then, you’ll dig staying at the newly-opened Hard Rock Hotel in Desaru Coast, Johor. The international brand of property is renowned for its rockin’ hospitality. Check into their Rock Star Suite for some top-class Hollywood star treatment — enjoy in-room plush Sleep Like a Rock bedding, Bose sound system, and even a 15-ball American City ARAMITH 7 ft Pool Table. Pair that up with a personal concierge to meet your every whim and fancy, and you’ll have a rocking good time for sure!

Get ready to rock your holiday at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Don’t forget to explore the hotel’s Memorabilia Gallery to get you that bit closer to the rich and famous of Hollywood. On display are some of the greatest rock memorabilia, whether you’re a rocker who loves The Rolling Stones or a Rihanna fangirl!

Tanjong Jara Resort, Dungun, Terengganu

If you’re an urban dweller used to braving traffic jams and air pollution, why not retire to the east coast countryside of Malaysia and enjoy a change of pace in life? Get a room at Tanjong Jara Resort and enjoy the tranquility of this property, inspired by 17th century Malay palaces with a layout that makes you feel like you are in a typical Malay village.

Enjoy the tranquil east coast village lifestyle at the luxurious Tanjong Jara Resort

The genuine countryside charm is so authentic, even the staff that serve you are actually drawn from the local villages, who truly embody the gentle Malay art of service and hospitality. Sleep in luxuriously-appointed wooden villas, wake up to a traditional Malay breakfast, stroll along the beautiful beach, and enjoy local folk games in the afternoons. If that’s not enough, indulge in traditional beauty treatments at their Spa Village — there’s one couple’s treatment that last half a day where we hear you’ll be treated like Kings and Queens!

The Culvert, Kuching, Sarawak

Who would ever think that refurbished concrete culverts would make a cosy hotel room…well, the owners of The Culvert thought it would be unique to transform these huge cylinders of concrete and galvanised steel into rooms, and so they did! Don’t worry, you’ll still get to sleep in comfortable beds, have access to en-suite baths and even soak yourself in the free-standing bath tubs! Download Crack Softwares

Beautiful sunset view at The Culvert in Kuching

On a patch of land nestled in the dense flora and undergrowth of Santubong, Kuching is this dreamy and relaxing resort that will melt away your stress. Enjoy views of the iconic Mount Santubong in the background, and frolic in the private beach nearby. Outfitted with eco-friendly room designs and an array of facilities offering adventure and relaxation, this Kuching hotel resort promises to take you on a cultural journey of Sarawak’s rainforests and rejuvenate your weary soul.

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

New Year Resolutions the Malaysian Style

Right after midnight, people from northern to southern hemispheres will celebrate the first glimpse of the New Year with lively concerts, spectacular fireworks, as well as a public holiday. Of course everything new is exciting but the beginning of a new year seems to be a good time to reflect on how far we’ve come and where we hope to go next.

And every time a New Year rolls in, people around the world will have one thing in common, which is making a New Year’s resolution. It is actually a 4,000 year-old tradition and dates back to the Babylonians. So what are our goals for the New Year? Mostly, our New Year’s resolution involved topic such as health, love, career, finance and education, right?

So far, I think many people have failed to keep their resolutions but come to think of it, I believe that it will be much easier if we keep a resolution that is tied to the things that we love. For travel aficionados, creating a New Year’s travel resolution list is the perfect way to start dreaming about where and how they want to wander in the coming year. It can also be about starting a healthy travel lifestyle or trying more outdoor activities, searching for the best local food or learning new skills or volunteering.

So, whether you live here or are simply on holiday in Malaysia, here are some 2018 resolutions to consider. Here goes nothing!

GET FIT

I think numero uno in most people’s minds every time the New Year comes is to exercise more and have a healthy lifestyle. There are lots and lots of gymnasiums in Malaysia either in shopping malls or provided by hotels or resorts for you to exercise, but if your new resolution is to engage in more outdoor activities, you don’t have to worry because we have plenty of that too.

The easiest and cheapest way to get fit and enjoy the outdoor activities at the same time, as well as savouring the beauty of nature is by doing the running, hiking and climbing circuit. And Malaysia definitely has places and events for that in abundance and here is the list for some of the popular activities that you can do in 2018:

Broga Hill in Semenyih, Selangor

The best way to see the sun rise above both the rainforest and the city is by climbing the Broga Hill as early as 5 am. It will take at least 40 minutes to reach the peak but the view is so magnificent that you will forget about your sore muscles. There are four peaks on Broga Hill and additional jungle trail from the summit to the peak of Gunung Tok Wan, which will take another two hours to reach. You have to overcome a series of ascending and descending hilly terrains to reach the top, which is simply a perfect workout in nature.

Broga Hill in Semenyih takes about 45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur. It sits on the edge of the Titiwangsa Range and is frequented by casual hikers. It is approximately 400m in altitude and takes its name from the local river, Buragas.

Mt Kinabalu Via Ferrata

Via ferrata (or iron road in Italian), is a mountain path consisting of a series of rungs, rails and cables embracing the rock face. There are more than 300 via ferrata routes around the world and the world’s highest via ferrata can now be found on Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia, whereby the highest point starts at 3,400 m and ends at 3,800 m. This is the first time that the sport of via ferrata climbing is being introduced in Asia.

An activity for everyone, the via ferrata is devised to give people with little or no climbing experience access to rock faces normally reached by mountaineers and rock climbers. There are several requirements for one to take part in the via ferrata activity, including having an average fitness level, being able to hike up to 3,200 m in 6 hours, being at least 10 years of age, being at least 1.3 metres tall; and, especially, not fear heights (or willing to conquer their fear of heights).

This is a challenging adventure, and those interested to experience via ferrata on Mount Kinabalu should note that the beginner’s route will let the climber take their first experience along the granite walls of Mount Kinabalu (a journey of about 2–3 hours).

The intermediate route will let the climber experience a 4- to 5-hour journey, which will reward the climber with a breathtaking view of the heights and sights.

Marathon Fun Run

The easiest way to get fit is through running and there are lots of public parks and gardens equipped with jogging tracks all over the country. However, I believe that it will be much more meaningful if you can get fit but at the same time doing it for charity. Here in Malaysia, come rain or shine, there is not a month that goes by without a half or full marathon or fun run being organised by various organisations for myriad of reasons.

Among the interesting marathons that you can participate in Malaysia this year include:

  • The iHero Charity Run 2018 involves a 7 km and 12 km marathon, a 3 km fun run and a 1 km wheelathon for participants with mobility issues. This run is a nationwide call for action to help make a meaningful change in the lives of people with disabilities. (21 January 2018, Menara DBKL).
  • KL World Urban Run 2018, an event by PERSADA and Urbanice Malaysia in conjunction with the Ninth Session of the World Urban Forum. This session in Kuala Lumpur will be the second session hosted in Asia after 10 years. The categories comprise 5 km, 10 km and 15 km run (11 February 2018, Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur).
  • International Orangutan Run 2018 is held to create awareness on the plight of the critically endangered orangutan in Borneo and Sumatran Islands, as well as commemorate and celebrate the “World Wildlife Day 2018”. It will be a 30 km run for the heavyweights while the beginners can run for 8 km. (24 March 2018, Sandakan, Sabah).
  • Route 68 Challenge is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Now into its fourth year, the race will see participants run for 168 km (two loops) and 84 km through the beautiful and scenic landscape of remote Gombak. The route will start and end at an orang asli settlement, winding through hilly roads surrounded by lush green forests. It will give participants some of the most unique ultramarathon race experience. (28-29 April 2018, Orang Asli Community Multi Purpose Hall at Km. 24 Gombak, Selangor).
  • Penang Eco 100 was the first ever ultra trail event in West Malaysia with a 50 km and 100 km category before an additional category of 160 km and 30 km were added. Held in Bukit Mertajam (Penang, Malaysia), the 30 km, 50 km and 100 km categories start from the eco village of Sungai Lembu, taking runners through oil palm plantations, rubber plantations, pineapple plantations, several Malay kampungs, Chinese new villages, and Indian temples, paddy fields, the challenging hills of Seraya, Mengkuang, and the by now iconic Tokun Hills. This race showcases the typical Malaysian geographical, social and cultural heritage where the runners will meet and see ordinary Malaysian people and wildlife, flora and fauna in the rural settings with a distinct small town feel. During the race, the runners will be sampling the local cuisines in the food and drinks provided at the aid stations along the course of the race. (12-13 May 2018, Bukit Mertajam, Penang).

For more info on other marathons and fun run, please visit www.runsociety.com.

WATCH YOUR DIET

Come New Year, you may plan to drop 10 kg, lower your cholesterol or simply to create a clean eating habit. Is it possible to watch your diet when you are travelling to a country that is well-known as food paradise? Wouldn’t you want to try the delicious food that the locals consume day in and day out?
I might as well recommend a list of the best local food for you to try and you can worry about your diet later, much, much later. Here are some of the local dishes that any sane human should try when they are in Malaysia:

Nasi Lemak

No visitors will leave Malaysia without tasting our very own Nasi Lemak. Hot cooked rice with pandan aroma steamed with coconut cream goes heavenly well with sizzling spicy sauce or “sambal”. Generous sprinklings of roasted peanuts and salty dried anchovies with a hard boiled egg perfect this dish. A platter of everything good all wrapped up in banana leaves to further enhance its unique taste. Nasi Lemak is truly a national heritage of Malaysia. (Nasi Lemak Antarabangsa in Kg. Baru, Kuala Lumpur).

‘Char Kway Teow’

‘Char Kway Teow’ or ‘stir-fried ricecake strips’ is arguably one of the most popular dishes among Malaysians of all races. The name is derived from the Hokkien term for ‘fried’ which is ‘char, while ‘kway teow’ refers to the ‘flat rice noodles’, which is the main ingredient. The latter is stir-fried over very high heat with light or dark soy sauce, chili, prawns, de-shelled cockles, bean sprouts, chinese chives and eggs.

‘Char kway teow’ was said to have its origins in Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei) but the common consensus is that the Penang version tops the list when it comes to taste and originality. (Sisters Fried Kway Teow, Penang).

Laksa

Laksa is a famous noodle soup from Peranakan culture with coconut soup as a base to which are added tofu puffs, fish sticks, shrimps, cockles and others. It is served with a spoonful of chilli paste or “sambal” and traditionally garnished with Vietnamese coriander, or laksa leaf. There are many varieties of delicious Laksa in Malaysia such as Sarawak Laksa, Johor Laksa, Kelantan Laksa, Penang Laksa and many others. Try out as many as you can. (Restaurant Puteri, Kuala Lumpur).

Banana Leaf Rice

It’s a traditional method of serving rice dishes on banana leaves instead of plates that was brought over to Malaysia during the migration of South Indians. A unique dining experience, it will tickle your taste buds with all kinds of flavours, while filling your tummy with contentment. There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to banana leaf rice. No two restaurants are alike, with each having their own specialties. Indian restaurants are aplenty at Brickfields, home of Little India in Kuala Lumpur and it’s easily accessible by public transport.

Satay

Satay is a Malay food made up of meats that are marinated, skewered and grilled on sticks and served with delicious peanut sauce. In Malaysia, the more popular type of skewered meat would be the chicken and beef served with a sauce dip, and slivers of cucumbers and onions. (Sate Kajang Hj Samuri, all over the Klang Valley).

LEARN NEW SKILLS

Experts say you’re never too old to learn to play the guitar, dance the waltz or cook a delicious dinner. Mastering new skills offers many benefits for the mind, body and soul. So, let’s make 2018 our year to learn new skills and here are some new skills that we can acquire here in Malaysia:

Hands-On Pewtersmithing Workshops

Founded in 1885, Royal Selangor is the world’s foremost name in quality pewter, a brand synonymous with design and craftsmanship. In the hands of its skilled craftspeople, this versatile alloy of tin, copper and antimony is transformed into an endless variety of homeware and gifts, sold today in more than 20 countries around the world.

Its Visitor Centre is located in Setapak Jaya, just 20 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur city centre. A modern glass-clad foyer set within a scenic lush landscape, greets visitors upon arrival at the Visitor Centre. You certainly won’t miss it as there is a giant-sized Royal Selangor tankard fronting the entrance.

Visitors with a little more time on their hands may not want to miss out on making their own pewter products. For a nominal fee, visitors may participate in Royal Selangor’s School of Hard Knocks pewtersmithing workshop where the participants create their very own pewter dish, or The Foundry where they get to make pewter accessories from scratch.

Royal Selangor

  • Online Enquiries: +603 4145 6005
  • Email: info@royalselangor.com

General Line: +603 4145 6000

Art of Shoemaking

What better way to channel your “inner Jimmy Choo” than learning the art of shoemaking at the place where the world renowned shoe designer Jimmy Choo learned his craft. Hong Kong shoe store, located in George Town, Penang, was where 15-year-old Choo started his apprenticeship under Master Wong, a famous shoe maker in Penang.

Today, Master Wong Jr has created a 4-hour Introduction to Shoemaking course for anyone who wants learn the art of shoemaking using traditional methods.

Hong Kong Shoe Store
Address: 20 Kimberley Street, 10100, George Town, Penang
Telephone / Fax: +604 261 4695
Hotline: 019-409 4663

A Chef In the Making

Malaysia is a melting pot of culinary delights. Being at the crossroads of so many cultural influences has made Malaysia a gastronomic heaven which promises a potpourri of wonderful food to please and enchant every palate from all four corners of the world.

So, grab the opportunity to learn how to cook an authentic taste of the Malaysian cuisines by joining the LaZat Malaysian Cooking Class. Each day of the week, the instructor will teach a different ethnic menu and provide detailed explanations of ingredients and cooking methods. Students will individually prepare their own 4-course lunch, usually consisting of an appetizer, main course, side dish and dessert.

For more details on LaZat Malaysian Cooking Class, please visit http://malaysia-klcookingclass.com.

VOLUNTEER MORE

Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes, and the community, but at the same time we as volunteers get the benefits too. This is because volunteering and helping others can help us reduce stress, combat depression, keep us mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose.

In tourism, we called it voluntourism, which is a combination of volunteering and tourism. It is a popular form of international travel that allows you to contribute to sustainable development while exploring a new country and culture. Among the voluntourism activities that we can participate in include:

Heart2Heart with Orangutan

The Heart2Heart with Orangutan programme is a unique conservation initiative run by Sarawak Forestry in collaboration with the Sarawak Convention Bureau. It is a one-day programme, which allows participants to actively participate in orangutan rehabilitation at the Matang Wildlife Centre and Semenggoh Wildlife Centre. It aims to showcase the orangutan conservation efforts in Sarawak to the global community and to raise awareness on the importance of saving the orangutan from the brink of extinction.

The Heart2Heart with Orangutan and Adoption programmes will definitely give its participants a renewed sense of purpose and fulfilment. No matter how small your contributions are for the rehabilitation and preservation of the orangutans, I’d like to believe that your tiny efforts will bring in big benefits in the larger scheme of things.

SARAWAK FORESTRY Corporation Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: +6082 610088   Fax: +6082 610099
Email: info@sarawakforestry.com
Website: www.sarawakforestry.com

Juara Turtle Project

TAT (Tengku Arif Temenggong) Turtle Sanctuary is a turtle hatchery facility located in Kampung Juara, on the eastern coast of Tioman Island, Malaysia. It is operated and maintained by a small group of dedicated individuals with the help of local and international volunteers. The Juara hatchery was established in 2006 when Juara’s Riverview Resort adopted a local government-run turtle hatchery at the end of its five year contract. Over the last few years the project has grown steadily as a “minimal interference, strictly conservation-aimed” hatchery.

The facility looks forward to and will appreciate working with anyone who supports similar perspectives on conservation efforts, through funding, environmental education, or physical participation.

Juara Turtle Project
Email:  contact@juaraturtleproject.com
Phone:  +6 09 419 3244
Mobile: +6 017 438 3038
Website:http://www.juaraturtleproject.com

 

Teach Refugee Children in Malaysia

While most refugee children would like to go to school, there is only one problem – their education expenses and needs are not met. According to UNHCR, the foremost refugee agency in Malaysia, there are over 11,000 displaced children of school going age yet less than 40% of them have access to any formal education. To fill this need, many communities and NGOs have set up their own education centers.

Come “voluntour” at the local refugee school which has about 60 students mostly from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Voluntourists help teach English, History, Geography, Mathematics and Physical Education. The school is open year round but closed on Malaysian school holidays.

For more details, please visit http://volunteeringinmalaysia.org.

MANAGE STRESS

Come New Year, do the thing you need the most to take care of yourself so that you can start the year stress-free. The most pleasant way to do that is by visiting spas, which can be found all over Malaysia. A good dose of pampering can truly revive the mind, body and spirit, I promise!

In Malaysia, influences from various ancient therapies have been infused with modern spa therapies in a designer ambience, offering you a delightful experience. Here, one can find age-old Javanese beauty and wellness regimens, ancient Ayurvedic treatments from India, and reflexology, acupressure and Shiatsu practices founded in China, among others. Masseurs are well-trained and have a deep understanding of the human body, dispensing herbal recipes for baths, massage oils and scrubs.

Set against lush tropical backdrops, and presented with nutritious and detoxifying fresh fruits and herbal drinks, most of these luxury spas are also equipped with Jacuzzis, steam rooms, saunas, swimming pools and double baths. While there has recently been an influx of designer spas in the capital of Kuala Lumpur, most spas are tucked away in resorts, nestled in lush rainforests or overlooking the lapping seashore.

Spa Village

The award-winning Spa Village brand is the epitome of a luxury spa retreat. Located in all YTL properties in Kuala Lumpur, Pangkor Laut, Tanjong Jara, Cameron Highlands, Gaya Island and Melaka, it uses unique Asian healing rituals and natural resources to give you the most amazing rejuvenating experience.

For more information on Spa Village, please visit http://www.spavillage.com.

Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Tambun, Perak

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is nestled in a 22.7-acre valley, cradled by 260 million-year old towering Paleozoic limestone hills, verdant rainforest, rejuvenating geothermal hot springs, natural caves and cascading waterfalls. Your getaway to regain balance and rediscover your sense of true self, this unique hideaway is designed to luxuriate in, with therapeutic value in mind.

Restore what life takes from your body and soul as you dip into the Geothermal Hot Springs Dipping Pools, or stare and be overwhelmed by the near-vertical rock formations around the retreat. Perhaps take a relaxing stroll through the jungle to breathe in the sights of rarity. Otherwise, simply immerse in a state of enlightenment and inner peace in the Meditation Cave.

This sanctuary of bespoke holistic wellness in the northern state of Perak is only 15 minutes drive from Ipoh city and 2 hours drive from Kuala Lumpur.

For more information on Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, please visit

https://www.thebanjaran.com.

The Chateau Spa Organic Wellness Resort, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang

Rising majestically amidst a lush rainforest in Malaysia, The Chateau is an organic spa and wellness resort, modeled after a 12th-century ‘Haut Koenigsbourg’ castle in Alsace, France. La Sante, the jewel in The Chateau’s crown, is the first destination spa in Asia that ingeniously blends European spa expertise with renowned Asian hospitality.

The Chateau offers a complete organic experience and advocates a lifestyle approach to personal wellness in a non-regimented way. The Chateau is not only a retreat that embraces holistic ideas and relaxing principles but one that defines the eminent journey towards wellness.

For more information on The Chateau Spa Organic Wellness Resort, please visit http://www.thechateau.com.my.

The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur Iridium Spa, Kuala Lumpur

The spa suites are a standout at this St. Regis relaxation haven: each comes equipped with a private Jacuzzi and sauna room. The spa uses ESPA products and technology from Endermologie to achieve lasting results.

Consult with your therapist for a massage that’s tailored to you, with a de-stresser, jet-lag reviver, immune booster, Balinese and hot stone massage as options. In addition to scrubs and wraps, the spa offers signature rituals like the 210-minute Heritage Tea Aficionado inspired by the classic St. Regis Afternoon tea. Begin with a rice and green tea exfoliation, followed by a red chai tea bathing ritual designed to improve circulation.

For more details on The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur Iridium Spa, please visit http://www.stregiskualalumpur.com/spa.

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

Golfing in Malaysia

Malaysia, two-time winner of World Golf Awards for Asia’s Best Golf Destination, has become a favourite getaway among golfers lately. With the appealing combination of great weather, delicious food, exotic culture, natural attractions, value-for-money shopping and modern fairways, it’s easy to see why more golfers are not just lugging their golf bags onto airplanes, but their families as well, for the trip.

But with almost 160 top golf courses in the country to choose from for international play – many of which are award-winning – how does one choose?

Here’s our top five picks of great golfing holidays for everyone in the family.

 

LANGKAWI

A holiday in Langkawi Island conjures images of a tropical sun, white, sandy beaches, swaying coconut trees and the beautiful blue Andaman sea stretched out as far as the eye can see. If beach-side lazing is not your thing, then glide down the island’s mangrove rivers to see the gorgeous limestone landscapes of this UNESCO geopark or trek deep into its mountainous jungles to experience nature at its best. (naturallylangkawi.my)

Best golfing: The award-winning Els Club Teluk Datai, nestled between the Andaman sea and the lush mountains of Langkawi island, features an amazing 18-hole challenge designed by South African legend Ernie Els.

 

GEORGE TOWN, PENANG

This UNESCO Heritage City is brimming with so much life and activity, no visitor will have time to get bored. From a walking tour of its street art to admiring the architectural beauty of its colonial past to sampling local food along with the locals, there’s simply so much to do. Families will especially love its variety of historic and contemporary museums, the ride up to the top of Penang Hill, a city ride on the three-wheeled trishaw and a leisurely stroll in its many gardens. (mypenang.gov.my)

Best golfing: Stay on the island for a round of golf at Penang Golf Club where you will tee off from as high as a hundred metres above the greens and fairways, or cross the iconic Penang Bridge to the mainland’s Bukit Jawi Golf Resort to experience a thrilling game by the lake.

 

KUALA LUMPUR

Voted as one of the world’s best shopping destinations and magnificent cities to visit, Kuala Lumpur is a must-stop on any itinerary to Malaysia. It’s a shopping paradise alright with designer goods going for less due to the currency exchange rate. The best IT gadgets, shoes, fashion and knick knacks are also here to bargain over at the many shopping malls, pop-up bazaars and night markets. (visitkl.gov.my)

Tip: Purchase a Hop On Hop Off pass for the entire family to explore over 50 major sights and attractions in the city so you don’t miss iconic stops such as the Petronas Twin Towers, the Lake Gardens, Independence Square and Bintang Walk. (myhoponhopoff.com)

Best golfing: Tournament Players Club (formerly known as KL Golf Country Club), designed by Australian architect Ted Parslow, is the site of numerous high-profile tournaments, serving up a challenge to golfers with its length, water hazards and sculptured bunkering.

 

KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

Adventure awaits in this Borneo paradise and visitors can take their pick from gentle explorations of the sea world – snorkeling and guided scuba walks at the easily accessible island marine park – to an exhilarating climb up Mount Kinabalu either by trekking through its jungle to the peak or clinging on to its granite surface on the via ferrata walk. (sabahtourism.com).

Best golfing: Play at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Borneo Golf Resort and you’ll have to battle with the ocean winds and the beauty of this seaside location to focus on your game. Alternatively, take your game to the wetlands and tee off at Dalit Bay Golf Country Club, bordered by the Tambalang and Mengkabong rivers.

 

KUCHING, SARAWAK

The word “Kuching” is Malaysian for cat, but it is the orangutan that has attracted many to this Borneo state, specifically to the rehabilitation centres of this beloved great ape. Other natural attractions easily accessible from Kuching city – Bako National Park, the wetlands of Sibu Laut and Salak rivers and the Bau limestone caves – will keep the family firmly occupied. (sarawaktourism.com)

Best golfing: Enjoy a round of golf in the shadows of the Santubong Mountain where Arnold Palmer has designed a fantastic course around rocky outcrops, ponds, mangrove forests and the South China Sea.

 

For more information on Malaysia’s golf courses, visit playmalaysiagolf.com or malaysia.travel.

 

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Tourism Malaysia

Mobitechstudio.com – mobile application development: where exactly to start

Mobitechstudio.com – mobile application development: where exactly to start

In our get the job done we endure many of the phases belonging to the everyday living cycle of making a mobile app and that i would want to share our know-how with this subject. Under certainly is the tale about bases of mobile development: the selection of the system ahead of development, inserting in store and then the subsequent checking. So, let us get started our tale from Mobitech.

Trends. Exactly what are mobile cellular phone house owners?

  • More than fifty percent (53%) use downloaded apps.
  • Approximately identical amount of money (52%) through mobile mobile see the sites.
  • Over a 3rd of individuals (38%) use social networking sites from a mobile cellphone.
  • A tiny fewer women and men, participate in game titles (34%).
  • Approximately three-quarters of folks converse by using mobile mobile phone (moreover phone calls): it might be SMS, a social networking app, quick messengers etc.

Statistics. What would you spend money on?

If we glance with the studies of sales and profits of smartphones by running devices, we are going to begin to see the next:

  • 62% of smartphones offered is definitely an Android gadget.
  • In the next position Symbian – 15% within the sector.

The remaining share is split bada, iOS and Home windows Mobile phone (at any time you require this chart only in Moscow, the distribution will most likely change in direction of rising the share of Apple services).

If you search for the equivalent timetable around the world, we are going to see that below Android from the forefront with ? from the advertise. The way in which from the specific situation Mobitech Studio.

For the next quarter of 2012, the entire world has marketed 104 million Android telephones – given that the inhabitants of the rather sizeable nation. But we as mobile builders have an interest in not simply smartphone, but in addition ideas on how to do the job with him. A substantial proportion of homeowners of products on Android works by using them as usual telephones: SMS, phone calls and all. They don’t activate the system in Google Enjoy, not downloading apps.

Mobitech Solutions for mobile iphone app

What does one use? Not all citizens received the cellphone in 2012, and so the true distribution of forces between mobile working programs demonstrates our interior figures. This statistic features Russia also, the CIS nations around the world: Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan.

  • 73.five p.c could be a Java telephone.
  • Android is in next area with eleven.6%.
  • The legacy of Nokia, Symbian, a great deal driving Android mobile phone with 11%.
  • Apple items have got a three.5% of Runet end users.
  • The most attentive will see around the chart of Microsoft with Home windows Cell phone ( under 1%).

: Appropriate solutions for iOS and Android from Mobitech

Installation of applications. Once you pick out a system below which the application are manufactured, it really is vital to know the studies on presently present applications. Graphics study business enterprise App Annie through the September 2012 demonstrate you the way to mature two competing Apple and Google. There is certainly foolish to check Mobitechstudio.

Mobile app development small business mobitech . The best quality, superior quality solutions for iOS Android, etc.

By number of downloads on the first destination Google Perform: a little more units, additional downloads, greater traffic and a growth of 66% compared with January 2012. The growth of iOS were two times considerably less, about 30%. But the main chart – what kind of revenue customers bring. And listed here the problem is radically different. It is always easier to make on iOS, but the money is there and in Google Participate in, should you know why you should pick them up.

Types of mobile apps. In practice, we can divide mobile apps into 3 types.

Mobile sites, web applications. This certainly is the most common type of applications for mobile gadgets. Modern smartphones are able to display usual website. They can do anything that we are accustomed to seeing in desktop applications – support for HTML5 is doing its job. mobitechstudio.com.Remember that web applications are ideal for start-UPS: they allow you to obtain a great result for very little money and for a short time. Another advantage of the mobile website compared with other mobile apps is cross-platform. However, there are negative, though weighty, is relatively difficult to make.

Development of all types of applications from Studio Mobitech

Hybrid apps. With this approach you get access to most of the advantages of functioning system APIs: the app is cluttered with push notifications and other pleasant buns, also, now your product could in fact be placed in stores. The main content still is mostly a platform-independent page layout, hosted about the server. www.mobitechstudio.com. This allows you to make cosmetic changes inside product without releasing a new version: it really is enough to upload changes to the server. Hybrid application is truly a appropriate solution for those who are starting a business or wants to test their idea, indicate it to your investor friends.

A native app. These kind of applications are probably the most resource intensive, but it allows the maximum use from the opportunities offered by each specific working system. As a result, native apps win as being the functionality and speed of other types of mobile applications. It is really to this approach now come to those companies who did combined application. For example, Facebook started with the combo app: native controls (switches, tabs and the like) and then the web page as content. http://mobitechstudio.com/Несмотря that this is a really good solution, the problems with performance lead to the fact that the builders are moving away from combination with the web.

Statistics. The figures in the downloads on our apps.

First, we have an app that is constantly developing: amid the recent changes it happens to be worth noting facetime audio. The main difference between the apps is who their audience is. The first is undoubtedly an international product. The program is downloaded don’t just in CIS, they are actively used by residents of Europe and Latin America. The next application originally was made in Russia and for people of CIS.

Great mobile iOS and Android app development on Mobitechstudio.com

It is interesting to check the studies of downloads within the stores. A enormous part in the 62% of foreign audience goes to Google Enjoy. About 1/5 is inside AppStore, 14% in Ovi Store. And previously the remaining 5% share for Home windows Cellular phone (4%) and Samsung Bada (1%). With the Agent circumstance is radically different: the share of Google Engage in and Ovi are about the identical. Well, 10% belonging to the AppStore demonstrate love for “Apple” solutions within our state.

The process of making a mobile prilozheniy so, let us get to by far the most delicious: the process of developing a mobile application.

A User Tale. First of all, you need to determine what and for whom we write. The answers to these questions are documented in a User Tale. On the picture you can begin to see the genuine ticket within our tracker.

mobitechstudio.com. He describes how an current ICQ user can log in to the app, and what challenges it could meet. At this stage it happens to be imperative that you give good results out all possible scenarios to avoid unpleasant surprises at later phases of development.

It is significant to understand that each item on your to-do sheet is hiding a huge iceberg of functionality. Try to fragment and specify tasks. Major wishlist ultimate split into several levels (releases in stor). However is a really topic for another discussion, back to the levels of application development.

Design and design. After writing from the User Tale is to begin designing and design development.

At this stage, we use prototypes that we hang about the Board as well as the arrows demonstrate how the navigation will occur.

The design necessarily used guideline.

The guideline on the General sense is known as a document which is issued by the organisation, and that designers and builders understand the principle of building the application communicates with the user. Relatively speaking, on iOS the buttons need to do the round, and for Home windows Mobile phone – square. However, we use interior guidelines for builders. Thus the result on the designer’s perform often consists of models, guidelines and slicing graphics.

sector Sharks and Mobitechstudio, fierce competition

Layouts most suitable served “linked urls”, for example, using the Prototype to understand the logic transitions. The guidelines contain information about the padding, sizes, visual effects, mechanics, animations, etc. you can skip This step if your project is one designer and one developer sitting next to each other. The 3rd part from the result – cutting charts – must contain a minimum of needed graphic resources (care about the weight of your app), have versions for different screen resolutions. Most often we draw for retina and xhdpi screens. Next is most likely the preparation for Neretina mdpi and automated tools (if appropriate their use). Often the hands have to cook hdpi resources.

Transfer in development. Discussion and necessary corrections with the description.

After receiving the models, guideline and slicing begins the operate belonging to the developer. We share inside the development of everything that came up, and expect an early result. This does not mean that the deliver the results about the architecture also, the user interface is finished. Mobitechstudio.com. Sometimes the builders develop interesting ideas that will make adjustments to the original plan. When development is complete, comes the testing stage.

Testing. There are a number of ways to test the application.

In mobile development tester is a person around whom some telephones. We possess a huge wardrobe, which are as old telephones, plus the latest novelties. Inside we try to test in test cases. Should you implement a new feature, in her description from the prepared test plan.

There are solutions to help in testing. We use HockeyApp – an application that allows you to distribute our product to beta testers. We write in social networking sites: “Guys, we have got a new cool app. Who wants to try?” I wish to receive a build, use the app, and it collects stats, makes a crash report and sends it to us.

There are also expert services that allow you to test your app on different working units – for example, all Android firmware version 2.one or 2.three. You give the application, products screenshot the entire path that you set, sends pictures to you inside mail, and you check if everything is in order.

checking Companies and tracking of application data.

Monitoring. So, you have developed, tested application, filled it in stor. To track stats of downloads you can use the service Distimo. It shows data on end users who come to the store to download applications, and aggregates the comments.

It is critical to understand that people today are much more likely to leave negative comments. If a person is doing well, he usually just utilizes the application, not commenting. Inside the stable operation of our applications we get 40-50 comments daily. Over the day of error the number of records can reach up to 400 on a single system. So keep in mind that comments are not a full evaluation of your job, rather another bug tracker.

To change the specific situation could very well be rather a common “hack” – window Rate Us. Offer to leave a positive review inside store, and in case of problems, email developer. The effect is strong enough, the main thing is to consider the algorithm of showing the dialogue to the user.

In addition to the review Distimo shows the number of downloads, earned money, and just where are downloading your apps.

Another interesting checking service Flurry. It helps to collect the client data. Flurry provides a report about what the user does in your application: how many times he pressed the button, how many times have returned to the app and greater General settings – audience, geography, gender, age, etc. Mobitechstudio.com.

In some mobile merchandise we also use counting client stats using Google Analytics. Difference when compared with the Flurry has almost no. Disadvantages in speed and processing with the logs is, in both cases, however, any time you are used to working with Google release a user interface can use this tool.

Despite the major number of third-party companies, we have our own studies. No matter how good was not external sources, they need to be checked. We are able to evaluate the stats, but it can be necessary to build infrastructure for report generation, weekly reporting by using email and other things that simplify lifestyle. Therefore it’s always easier for us to use providers such as Flurry and Distimo, and then the inside logs to contact those that have any questions. Our practical knowledge shows that this approach is justified: periodically our data and expert services are slightly different. Any time you are inclined to check the stats, use different sources.

Specific. You need to remember?

On each new system the user expects to begin to see the rich application. He argues as follows: “I sat on bad Java mobile, thus could use ICQ. I bought a new cell phone, go to Marketplace, and there’s no ICQ? Are you doing something?” The user does not consider into account the fact that you have to do the app from scratch. The new system can be a new equipment, new documentation, new resources.

The far more popular the system, the extra you have competitors. With the moment there are two Stora, which is perfectly clear: AppStore and Google Perform. Should you have an idea of an application that is easily monetized or just get a lot of downloads, type keywords into the search and chances are you’ll find that this app exists. The extra popular the system, the way more competition. In such cases it really is necessary to carefully study the analogues to begin to see the studies, trying to understand what the parameters of your current solutions could be bettered.

It is crucial to understand how consumers choose the apps. Regular people are not going to decide to buy a specific app, it just looks a list. For example, the query “free music”. Icon along with the first two lines in the description is what a person sees and evaluates on the first put. If the icon is decent, it truly is possible to pick up, so a bad icon reduces the number of downloads.

to get to the top belonging to the app store is very necessary

It is very vital that you get to the top in the app store. To get to the top, stores very well, to gain a foothold there – the key to success. Why is it necessary? When the user wants to download something, it comes into the chart and see which application is now in first put during the number of downloads. It truly is very necessary to get there because it’s kind of the vicious circle. Mobitechstudio.com. The app hits the charts, it’s always seen by buyers, they download it, it re-enters while in the first area, and therefore the next iteration continues. Therefore by all means get horse racing and rating: ask mothers, grandmothers, neighbors put the app five. It will be worth saying that the marketplace is full of solutions with the guaranteed program output during the top. However, organic people, this brings a little bit, that does not prevent to continue the experiments.

Remember that the publication time can certainly be up to several weeks. Suppose you have developed and tested the app, called all bloggers or the media and said: “I Have got a new application, come to the press conference”. You send it in to the AppStore and have to wait up to seven business days. In this particular case, Google Engage in – Paradise for live updates, wherever publishing takes several hours.

The fragmentation within the working system. Should you are developing Android applications, consider the fragmentation plus the existence of the whole zoo of equipment. This affects the time development at all levels: planning, design, development and especially testing.

Within the store it truly is impossible to converse with consumers

In the store its impossible to connect with end users. For example, the user says that he don’t go to ICQ messages. He is unhappy and is expressed in a very colorful, but not very informative. We have no way to contact him and learn a little more about the issue. All we can do is to get into the monitor and see do we use a message. Maybe him blocked anti-spam.

Now some within the tale get a admin panel wherever you can ask questions to the user, to find out his contact information to see what nations are downloading your app, but the specific situation is not too improved. Mobitech Studio. It will be worth noting that Google Participate in continues to add this option to some builders, like our specialist it is always available.

The time to test it. There are several ways to test the application. You can have testers on test cases, test-plans, which they must pass. In addition, you will find a service for testing – you pay with the found bugs. You put up the application it is really tested 20 thousand regular people. In such a approach, of course, there are pros and cons.

Shots inside of the mobile industry solves everything. Good mobile builders are difficult to find even good sized companies, such as Mail.Ru Group, Yandex or Google. That is why we are working with the trainees – because sometimes it’s easier to choose an intelligent student and to teach him.