malaysia hotels - Awana Genting Highlands Resort

malaysia hotels - Awana Genting Highlands Resort










Rooms & Suites

For total comfort and relaxation, nothing beats the newly-refurbished Double Deluxe and Superior Deluxe Rooms at the Resort.
These charmingly-designed rooms with delightful fittings, comfortable furnishing and yes, breathtaking views, are truly a home away from home!

Restaurants & Dining

Rajawali Coffee HouseTop

Enjoy fresh mountain air while dining at the balcony with unobstructed view of the highlands. Select from ala carte meals and sumptuous buffet spreads.

The Buns StrabëTop

The Buns Strabë is the perfect venue for casual get-together with friends. Soothing live music, along with soft lighting, creates a relaxed setting.

Imu KunchëTop

Discover the exquisite taste of "IMU", an ancient Hawaiian art of slow cooking that involves unique cooking techniques in an underground pit.

Bee Won Korean RestaurantTop

If you fancy having an exotic meal, Bee Won is the place to go. This restaurant serves authentic Korean dishes as well as BBQ delicacies.

Golf TerraceTop

The Golf Terrace is the place to go for snacks. Local and Western fare as well as piping hot doughnuts, scones and muffins with hot and cold beverages are available here. It is the ultimate golfers' haunt before and after teeing-off.

 

 

Facilities

 

Awana Genting Highlands Golf & Country Resort offers countless eco-friendly outdoors activities with a wide range of facilities for personal challenges and team building alike.
The natural landscape is suitable for activities such as jungle trekking and obstacle courses, with steep cliffs and inclines providing ideal spots for abseiling and rock climbing.

Other recreational facilities and activities include horse riding (joyride), swimming pools, archery range, gymnasium, video gaming, snooker and pool and video gaming.
The Resort is just a stone's throw away from Genting - City of Entertainment, Malaysia's premier holiday destination, with a host of entertainment facilities, gala spectaculars and excitement galore as well as Indoor Theme Park and Outdoor Theme Park with over 40 rides.

Golf

There is nothing like an invigorating game of golf made more pleasurable by the salubrious mountain air on a Ronald Fream designed championship golf course. Indeed the refreshing cool wind on the golf course is a welcome change from the heat and humidity of the lowlands.
Your short game skill, especially putting should come in handy at Awana's Bent-grass greens which are exceptionally fast. There is no rough here but a severe hook or slice could land your ball into the surrounding primary forest. Precision is all important in this layout.
The Awana Genting Highlands golf course is truly an exhilarating golf course that is different from the rest.

Entertaiment

Arena Of Star
The Arena of Stars provides the platform for artistes to render their best melodies, for performers to put on show their artistic skills, and for crowds to join in the celebrations and prance to contemporary and hit tunes.
Genting International Show Room
The Genting International Showroom, the hi-tech and multimedia entertainment venue is located opposite Genting Palace, Genting Hotel. This state-of-the-art Genting International Showroom is supported by the latest sound and lighting system as well as theatrical stage equipment including an impressive revolving stage and flying towers.
Pavilion Hall
The latest entertainment hotspot at Genting, is suitable for hosting dance performances and concerts as well as sporting events. It has a 2,000 stadium-style seating capacity and the whole Pavilion can be set up to accommodate more than 6,000 people.

Casino de Genting

Casino de Genting is equipped with state-of-the-art gaming technology such as electronic tables and cashless slot machines, aiming to provide patrons with the ultimate gaming experience.
The casino is open 24 hours daily.
Persons under 21 years old are not permitted to enter the casino.
Malaysian citizens who profess the religion of Islam are prohibited from the casino.
Casino patrons are to be decently dressed.
Patrons wearing T-shirts with commercial advertisements and offensive or political slogans are not allowed to enter the casino.
Patrons wearing hats, sunglasses, slippers, sandals, short pants and sports wear are not

Genting Theme Park

This sprawling, multi-million-ringgit attraction consists of an indoor theme park, an outdoor theme park and a water park. Featuring over 40 fun, exhilarating – and sometimes hairy-raising – rides, the Genting Theme Park is one of Genting Highlands’ signature attractions.
Signature Attractions
Genting Sky Venture
Snow World
Flying Coaster
X-pedition Wall
Ripley's

Cineplex
Located at Times Square, First World Plaza, the First World Cineplex houses two cineplexes which have a seating capacity of 164 each. Watch all your favourite and latest movies at the highest cineplex in Malaysia!
Shopping
The 1st World Plaza has got to be coolest, if not highest shopping destination in Malaysia. It carries over 90 labels with F&B outlets & attractions for all ages.

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Genting HighlandsMaps and Travel Guides

Genting Highlands
Maps and Travel Guides

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malaysia travel - genting higlands tag info

Genting Highlands (Malay: Tanah Tinggi
Genting; Chinese: 雲頂高原; simplified Chinese: 云顶高原)
otherwise known as Resorts World Genting is
the flagship integrated resort developed by
Genting Group. It is nestled on a mountain peak
(maximum elevation about 1760m) within the
Titiwangsa Mountains on the border between the
states of Pahang and Selangor of Malaysia.
Resorts World Genting is operated by Genting
Malaysia Berhad (formerly known as Resorts
World Bhd), which also operates Awana chain of
resorts & hotels. It is accessible by car fromKuala
Lumpur in one hour, or also accessible by a cable
car called Genting Skyway (3.38 km[1])which at its
opening used to be the world's fastest and South
East Asia's longest gondola lift.
History
The idea of creating a hill resort located in
proximity toKuala Lumpur came up in the late
Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong's mind during a business
trip to the Cameron Highlands in 1964. He
mooted this idea while enjoying the fresh and
crisp air from the balcony at his hotel room.
Subsequently, a study of the maps and Kuala
Lumpur’s vicinity located the ideal site - the 1,800-
metre Gunung Ulu Kali, just 55 km from Kuala
Lumpur. Amidst the dense virgin tropical jungle
and rugged terrain, the task to transform a
remote mountain into Malaysia’s premier holiday
destination seemed impossible, but not for Tan
SriLim.
A private company called Genting Highlands
Berhad was set up on 27 April 1965, with the late
Tan Sri Haji Mohammed Noah bin Omar, Tan Sri
Lim successfully obtained approval for the
alienation of 12,000 acres and 2,800 acres of land
from the Pahang and Selangor State Government
respectively between the years 1965 and 1970.
An anomaly happened during the obtaining of the
land approvals. While the Pahang state
government swiftly approved a freehold lease,
theSelangor state reluctantly approved a 99-year
lease. As a result, Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong met the
then Mentri Besar of Selangor, Dato Harun Idris
and telling him that a freehold lease will be more
feasible than a 99-year lease. Finally, the Selangor
state government agreed to grant a freehold
lease.
On 18 August 1965, a technical and construction
team began the herculean task that would take
Four years to complete the access road from
Genting Sempah to the peak of Gunung Ulu Kali.
To ensure the sound and prompt construction of
the hotel-cum-resort, Tan Sri Lim devoted all of
his time, capital and resources, including the
reserves of his family company, Kien Huat Realty
Berhad towards the making of this "dream
resort".
On 31 March 1969, the late YTM Tunku Abdul
Rahman, Malaysia’s first Prime Minister graced the
official laying of the foundation stone for the
company’s pioneer hotel, the then Highlands
Hotel, marking the completion of the access road
to Genting Highlands Resort. The Prime Minister
was impressed that the private sector, without
the assistance of the Government, could develop
a mountain resort for the enjoyment of all
Malaysians; subsequently a gaming licence was
suggested to help accelerate the development of
this remote area.
In 1971, the first hotel at Genting Highlands was
successfully completed and was then named
Highlands Hotel (now renamed Theme Park
Hotel).
Since the opening of the first hotel in 1971,
Genting Highlands Resort continued to grow
from strength to strength. The development of
the area continued to this present day to enhance
Genting Highlands Resort as the premier holiday
destination in the region while ensuring that the
natural beauty of the rain forest is maintained.
To date, Genting Highlands Resort has six hotels
(namely Maxims, Genting Hotel, Highlands Hotel,
Resort Hotel, Theme Park Hotel and First World
Hotel) and two apartment blocks (Ria and
Kayangan Apartments) at the hilltop and Awana
Genting Highlands Golf and Country Resort.
Together with integrated world-standard
entertainment facilities encompassing various
leisure, indoor and outdoor theme parks and
gaming facilities, Genting Highlands Resort has
become the "City of Entertainment" and Malaysia's
Premier Resort.
In 1997, Genting Highlands Resort further
boosted its facility attraction with Genting Skyway
cable car system that provides a 3.38 km
transport to the hilltop. Genting Skyway is also
recognised as the "World's Fastest Mono Cable
Car System" with a maximum speed of 21.6 km
per hour and the "Longest Cable Car in Malaysia
and Southeast Asia".
Attractions
It is sometimes informally known as the Las
Vegas of Malaysia, dubbed the "City of
Entertainment" as it has the only legal land-based
casino, Casino de Genting in the country and is
run by Genting Malaysia Bhd, asubsidiary of
Genting Group.
Hotels
Resorts World Genting has six hotels. In 2006
Guinness World Records listed the First World
Hotel as the world's largest hotel with a total of
6,228 rooms.[2]
Maxims Hotel
First World Hotel
Genting Hotel
Highlands Hotel
Resort Hotel
Theme Park Hotel
Dining
Bakery - Pastries, sandwiches & desserts
Coffee Terrace - Asian and Western buffet
Genting Palace Restaurant - Cantonese cuisine
Hainan Kitchen - Hainanese cuisine
Imperial Rama - Fine Dining Thai-Chinese cuisine
Ming Ren Restaurant - Xinjiang cuisine
The Olive - Fine Dining Western cuisine
VIP Restaurant - Thai-Chinese cuisine
Nightlife
Safari
Cloud 9
All Sports Bar
Patio Bar & Lounge
Theme Parks
Genting Theme Park
The resort has three theme parks which are
Genting Outdoor Theme Park, First World Indoor
Theme Park and Water Park. There are over 20
signature attractions which include:
Flying Coaster
Genting Sky Venture
Haunted House
Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum
SnowWorld
Space Shot
Genting Skyway
Genting Skyway (Cabin View)
Genting Skyway, located at the Kuala Kubu Bharu,
Selangor side of Genting, Malaysia, is a
monocable gondola lift serving the Genting
Highlands Resort. Its lower station is located near
Gohtong Jaya, and its upper station is located at
Highlands Hotel of Genting Highlands Resort.
It was officially opened in 1997 by the former
prime minister of Malaysia,Mahathir bin
Mohammad.
Amenities
The resort has five performance venues.
Arena of Stars
Genting International Showroom
Genting International Convention Centre
Pavilion Hall
First World Plaza
Pavilion Hall
Pavilion Hall - the latest entertainment hotspot at
Genting, is suitable for hosting dance
performances and concerts as well as sporting
events. It has a 2,000 stadium-style seating
capacity and the whole Pavilion can be set up to
accommodate more than 6,000 people.
Situated at the First World Plaza, the hall is easily
accessible from any part of Genting and is located
very near to all the conveniences and necessities.
Shopping, fun and food is just a couple of
footsteps away. [3]
GLITZ [4], a brand new show event held at the
Pavilion Hall, is offering an hour-long
extravaganza bringing together internationally
acclaimed performers in an East-meets-West
concept from 1 November 2010 to 11 September
2011. Among the main acts featured will be the
renowned magician, illusionist and escape artist–
Charles Bach, the PuYang HuaChen Acrobatic
Group and Daria Pushankina– the mistress of
sand art. [5]
Genting International Convention Centre
Genting International Convention Center or GICC
is a favourite international destination for
meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions
(MICE).
GICC has one of the largest column-free Grand
Ballroom in Malaysia with a total built-up area of
181,467 sq ft and is equipped with state-of-the-art
audio video and information technology
equipment. It can accommodate up to 2,000
delegates in banquet-style and 3,500 delegates in
theatre-style seating, and the entire area can be
split up conveniently into two to four sections
according to clients' needs.
The 20,000 square feet Convention Halls is multi-
purpose and can be used for any functions. It can
cater up to 1,200 delegates in theatre-style
seating. The hall can be split up into 3 smaller
halls according to clients’ needs.
GICC features 87,400 square feet of Meeting
Rooms space as well as additional foyer areas
that can be configured for your needs. Our
comfortable, distinctive rooms will add energy
and style to any gathering. Our meeting rooms
can accommodate between 10 and 500 people.
Located in the lower ground floor of GICC, the
Business Centre provides full business facilities
including secretarial services, fax, and phone and
Internet access. Three discussion rooms and
three boardrooms are also available for use at the
Business Centre. Each discussion room has a
capacity of up to 5 people while each boardroom
can accommodate up to 16 people. Each
boardroom is equipped with a 42-inch built-in
plasma screen for professional presentations.
Events
Awards ceremonies
The resort hosts several award ceremonies at the
Arena of Stars, with capacity of 6,000 people.
IIFA Awards 2002 - hosted by Amitabh Bachchan
Zee Cine Awards 2007
Lux Style Awards 2007
MTV Asia Awards 2008 - hosted by Jared Leto
Concerts
X-Pax 'XLive Festival' 2008 - music festival
headlined byMissy Elliott
Asian
Artists
Sammi
Cheng
Kitaro
Jenny
Tseng
AMIT
(Ah-Mei)
Adam
Cheng,
Liza
Wang &
Friends
Michelle
Yim &
Wayne
Lai
Wong
Tze
Wah
Aaron
Kwok
Andy
Lau
Beyond
Cyndi
Wang
Dave
Wong
FIR
Jacky
Cheung
Jay
Chou
JJ Lin
Joey
Yung
Jolin
Tsai
Justin Lo
Mayday
(band)
Sally
Yeh
S.H.E
Stefanie
Sun
Super
Junior
Twins
Vanness
Wu
Western Artists
Boyz II Men at Arena of Stars
George Benson
ABBA Tribute Band ARRIVAL
John Ford Coley
30 Seconds to Mars
Air Supply
Black Eyed Peas
Boyz II Men
Sir Cliff Richard
Deep Purple
Fergie
Jesse McCartney
Leona Lewis
Michael Learns to Rock
Olivia Newton-John
OneRepublic
Panic at the Disco
Pussycat Dolls
Robin Gibb
The Click Five
The Script
Vanessa-Mae
Westlife
TV Reality Shows/Competitions, Awards
Showcase
Genting also plays host to a range of popular TV
Reality Shows & Award Showcase being filmed
on site including:
My Astro Music Awards
Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian
Malaysian Idol
Star Idol Malaysia
Project SuperStar (Malaysia)
MTV Asia Awards
Sports
Genting Trailblazer
An annual 14 km adventure racing and trail
running marathon through the rainforest.
Tour de Langkawi
Genting Highlands serve as the finish point of a
stage in theTour de Langkawi cycling race. It is
one of the longest (30 km) climbs featured in a
cycling event.
Awards
Over the years, Genting Highlands have received
numerous awards for their excellence including:
2nd Most Scenic Golf Course, Golf Malaysia
Magazine Reader's Poll 2011/2012
World's Leading Casino Resort, World Travel
Awards 2005/2007/2008/2009/2010
Asia's Leading Casino Resort, World Travel
Awards 2005/2006/2007/2008/2009/2010
Best Resort, TTG Travel Awards 2007/2008/2009
The BrandLaureate Awards, The Best Brands In
Leisure And Hospitality 2006 - 2009
Top 1 Most Valuable Brands, Asia's Most Valuable
Brands 2007/2008/2009
The World's Largest Hotel, Guinness World
Records 2006/2007/2008/2009
Malaysia Spa & Wellness Awards
2007/2008/2009 - Best Resort Spa
Other Places of Attraction
Chin Swee Caves Temple
Chin Swee Caves Temple
Awana Genting Highlands Golf & Country Resort
Chin Swee Caves Temple
Genting Strawberry Farm
Highlands Mushroom Farm
Highlands Vegetable Farm
Highlands Daylily Farm
Climate
Genting Highlands enjoys a spring-like climate,
with temperatures no higher than 25°C and rarely
falling below 14°C yearly. The temperature in
Genting Highlands ranges from 16°C to 24°C all
year round.
Gallery
Outdoor Theme Park
Outdoor Theme Park
Sunset above the clouds
First World Plaza
First World Plaza
Night ride on the Cable Car
References
1. ^ Scheepstra, Wouter (2007-03-30). "Gokken in
regenwoud (Gambling in rainforest)" (in Dutch).
Sp!ts: pp. 22.
2. ^ Genting's First World Recognized As World's
Largest Hotel
3. ^ http://www.rwgenting.com/en/entertainment/
pavillion/index.htm
4. ^ http://www.rwgenting.com/en/
entertainment/2010/glitz/index.htm
5. ^ http://event.malaysiamostwanted.com/events/
glitz-show-nov-2010
External links
Genting Highlands Resort official website
Genting Highlands Resort official website
(Singapore)
Genting Highlands Resort official website (China -
Simplified Chinese)
Genting Highlands Resort official website (Hong
Kong - Traditional Chinese)
Genting Highlands Resort official website (India)
Genting Highlands Resort official website
(Indonesia)
Genting Highlands Resort official website (Taiwan
- Traditional Chinese)
Genting Highlands Resort official website
(Thailand)
Genting Highlands Resort official website (Viet
Nam)
Genting Highlands Skyventure Vertical Wind
Tunnel
Genting Skyway Official Webpage
Genting International Convention Centre
Genting Highlands travel guide from Wikitravel
Genting Highlands Resort Information
Resorts World Bhd
Resorts World Genting • Resorts
World Manila • Resorts World Sentosa
Malaysian hill stations
Bukit Larut • Bukit Tinggi • Cameron Highlands •
Fraser's Hill • Genting Highlands • Penang Hill
Pahang Darul Makmur
Districts
Bera • Bentong • Cameron Highlands •
Jerantut • Kuantan • Lipis • Maran • Pekan •
Raub • Rompin • Temerloh
Towns
Bandar Bera • Bandar Pusat Jengka • Bandar
Muadzam Shah • Bandar Tun Abdul Razak •
Batu Hitam • Batu Talam • Belimbing • Benta •
Bentong • Beserah • Brinchang • Bukit Tinggi •
Ceruk Paluh • Chendor • Chenor • Cheroh •
Chini Lake • Fraser's Hill • Gambang • Gebeng •
Genting Highlands • Genting Sempah •
Jerantut • Karak • Kemayan • Kerdau • Ketari •
Kota Iskandar • Kota Shahbandar • Kuala Lipis •
Kuala Pahang • Kuala Rompin • Kuala
Tembeling • Kuantan (capital) • Lanchang •
Lentang • Lubuk Paku • Lurah Bilut • Maran •
Mengkarak • Mengkuang • Mentakab •
Merapoh • Nenasi • Paloh Hinai • Pekan •
Penor • Raub • Rompin • Sebertak • Sempalit •
Sungai Lembing • Sungai Ruan • Tanah Rata •
Tanjung Lumpur • Tanjung Sepat • Teluk
Cempedak • Temerloh • Teriang • Tringkap
Islands Pulau Tioman
Villages
Cherating • FELDA Mempaga • FELDA New
Zealand • Janda Baik • Kampung Awah • Sri
Jaya• FELDA Kota Gelanggi 2
Townships
Bandar Baru Chendor • Bandar Damansara
Kuantan • Bandar Indera Mahkota • Bandar
MEC • Bandar Putra • Gohtong Jaya
Special Zones East Coast Economic Region

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malaysia travel : Penang guide

Here are maps of Penang, and here’s information on Penang Bayan Lepas International Airport and how to get to Georgetown from there. If you are taking an express bus, you will probably arrive at the new bus terminal Sungai Nibong and the Railway Station is on the mainland, located at Butterworth, Seberang Prai, if you took the KTM train. Ferry services are also available from Langkawi daily.
There’s so much to see and do in Penang, good food everywhere, and beautiful beaches to relax your mind.
Most of Penang’s fancier accommodation is in the form of beach resorts on the main tourist beach of Batu Feringghi. More backpacker-friendly options, as well as a few classical luxury hotels, can be found in Georgetown.
Penang (Pulau Pinang in Malay language) is situated 370 km from Kuala Lumpur on Malaysia’s north-western coast, and consists of a strip of land (Seberang Prai) on Peninsular Malaysia and a turtle-shaped island. The Penang Bridge connects Seberang Prai on the mainland of Malaysia on the Malay Peninsula and Gelugor on the island of Penang. The island of Penang has also been known as ‘Prince of Wales Island’, and more recently ‘The Pearl of the Orient’.

Penang used to be the oldest British settlement in Malaysia predating Melaka, today it is one of Malaysia’s main tourist draws. Although the beaches here are a little lacklustre when compared to many others in Malaysia, but this is more than compensated by Penang’s rich multicultural history which is full of colonial heritage and Chinese influence. Take a walk around Georgetown, the biggest city of the island, as it comes to life with places of worship, inner city communities, wet markets and bazaars, guilds, retail shops and traditional trades, hawkers and trishaw peddlers. The place illustrates a history of peaceful religious co-existence and cultural exchange among the followers of the great faiths of Islam, Buddhism,Hinduism, Christianity, as well as the Chinese religion, which combines Confucianism,Taoism and Buddhism.
For beach lovers, Penang’s best beaches are on the northern side, particularly Batu Ferringhi, but do be prepared for the heavy tourist crowd especially during peak seasons.
Penang is more than just beaches. The most unique tourist attraction is the Snake Temple, swarming with poisonous pit vipers. Apparently these poisonous snakes are believed to be made drowsy by the smoke of the burning incense. The 33m long reclining Buddha is the main attraction in Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple, which is believed to be the 3rd largest in the world.
Penang Hill is set amidst the island, with a 730 metre or 2,300 feet peak, where tourists who don’t mind the long queues for the funicular train are rewarded with beautiful views and jungle walks.
You can see Penang’s top sights in a rush on an overnight stay, but you’ll need at least two days to do them justice, and three or four days to really get a sense of the island. In a week, you can get a good look at most of what Penang has to offer.
Welcome to Penang, The Pearl of the Orient.

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malaysia travel : Those who eat together, stay together

I am sure the sight of it may be shocking to some, or worrying to a few for the unhygienic way that we Asians love to eat the communal way. Imagine plates and plates plus bowls and bowls of various food from dry to soup dishes laid out on a table where everyone surround and scoop out with their own spoon or fork or chopsticks right into their mouth and then continue the same cycle again and again. To paint it clearer, imagine a Chinese family, surrounding the food, gobbling down food, then someone look up to take more to go with their rice, bite and suck on the end of their chopsticks while their eyes scan the dishes to decide which they would like and then once targeted, they take the chopstick right out from their mouth with a smacking sound and zoom right down to the dish and pick up a bunch of food, sometimes even dropping again the food down to the dishes and try to pick up the same or whichever nearby if needed again. So imagine those who have always been eating the way where they pass food to each other and gingerly take food from the clean common spoon onto their own plate or has always been served with their own portion on food separately, this communal way of eating should be quite a sight to behold. I have always been eating this way, mostly with family and close family friends, frequently with friends and sometimes even with people we just knew. Once you sit people down to a feast, all shyness and boundaries goes out the window; where everyone start smacking their lips and poking at food together as If they have been long lost friends. Food transcends boundaries, it brings people close together. My most memorable feasts are usually at the biggest Chinese celebration which is the Chinese New Year. Here I would see feast of many of my favourite dishes, mostly only appearing once a year, making them very precious and the reason to gorge like I will never get to eat them again, or at least not until next year. Not to forget of course is the way we come together during these feasts, where we bellow with laughter, talking loudly and incessantly, updating each other of our lives and gossiping about others, a trait that we Chinese seem hard to avoid, and then of course keep on eating and eating and eating till we can eat no more.
Looking deeper though, I do think that internally within a family, communal eating do bring the family closer together. Family that eats together stays together. Of course during my teenagers years I would not think the same way, in fact I was really happy that I am spared of this ‘rule’, therefore in no need to rush home during lunch or dinner, and get to choose when to eat when I want to, of course within the stipulated time set by my mum. But right now, looking back, I am sort of envious to those of my friends who used to eat communally with their family. I believe it is this sense of going back and eating together, updating each other on their lives or just having this routine makes one a family, while sharing food together along with everything else. Another reason that I love communal eating is the possibility of tasting everything in sight and chooses what you like best to eat more of; yes I am greedy as such. I love to share yet I am greedy in contradictions but somehow communal eating bridge the gap together for me.
Anyway, if you are in to try some communal eating the Asian way, though it has badly defrayed from the older days of real Chinese etiquettes, here I still try, yes try to practice some etiquettes that I deem needed such as:
No double dipping the sauces.
It means do not take a morsel, dip the accompanying sauce, bite off a part of it, and then dip into the sauce again for more. Not only is this hygienically not wise, it is truly not a good sight to behold, at least for me. So if you must have the sauce, else maybe then the morsel is just incomplete or your first dip was really bad, then you can get a clean spoon and scoop up some sauce and then proceed to lather it onto your morsel.
Decide before taking.
Decide what to eat before picking it up, to avoid hovering over the dish and pushing and poking to find for your favourite piece. Imagine yourself, using a chopstick or any other utensils, rummaging through the dish to find your best piece or worst still, standing up reaching across the table and look as if you are digging for goal somewhere!
Once taken, it is taken.
After picking up the food, do not drop it back into the main dish, even if it is not what you intended to take or want to eat. One of the best way to cover this mistake is to show some attentiveness and pass on that food to somebody, smiling as genuinely as possible and say “nah, have a piece”. The bonus point is that it is even something praiseworthy to do! Please though, do not let people know you heard this trick from me.
In the end though, just remember to enjoy the meal, after all we are all just there to have a good meal, so any faux pas can be overlook, or as how the Chinese likes to say ‘close one eye’, in a way meaning that we can pretend we did not really see that. As long the meal and company is great, it is all that matters in the end of it, where everyone sit back, burp loudly and rub their bellies, or maybe not quite as graphic, but you get the picture, and then just smile contentedly thinking about the next good communal meal at the back of their minds.

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malaysia travel : Sipadan

malaysia travel : Sipadan

Sipadan Island is the only oceanic island in Malaysia. It is well-known for its international diving fraternity as one of the world’s five best dive sites. Rising 600 meters from the seabed, Sipadan Island is located in the Celebes Sea east of the major town of Tawau and off the coast of East Malaysia on the Island of Borneo. This beautiful oceanic island was formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct volcanic cone that took thousands of years to develop.
Sipadan Island is located in the centre of the richest marine habitat in the world, the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin. In this ecosystem, over 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified.
In the waters around Sipadan, rare diving scenes are frequently seen such as schools of green and hawksbill turtles nesting and mating, schools of barracuda and big-eye trevally in tornado-like formations, pelagic species such as manta rays, eagle rays, scalloped hammerhead sharks and whale sharks. Therefore, Sipadan is popular with its unusually large numbers of green and hawksbill turtles which gather there to mate and nest. And it is not really rare for a diver to see more than seventy turtles on each dive.
Besides that, there is a mysterious turtle tomb lies underneath the column of the Sipadan Island. The turtle tomb was formed by an underwater limestone cave with a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers that contain many skeletal remains of turtles that have become lost and drown before finding the surface.
Currently, this beautiful island is in the care of Wildlife Department. The Wildlife Department has stationed several park rangers to oversee the state of nature of the island. In order to protect the world’s unique flora and fauna on the island as well as the underwater world, the Malaysian Government has made a decision that from the year 2005, no more overnight facilities shall be on the Sipadan Island itself. This implies that all dive operators on the Sipadan Island have to move and diving at Sipadan will be conducted from other destinations likes Mabul and Kapalai.

Why Not Go

You really shouldn’t go to this place for holiday unless you are a scuba diver or you like snorkeling very much. There is nothing much to do on this island except enjoy yourself on the beautiful sandy beaches and watching the coral reef with its rich marine life. Besides that, there is no resort and nothing to buy on the island.

Why Go

The name of Sipadan is a legend in the diving circles, conjuring the images of patrolling hammerhead sharks, millions of colorful reef fish and, above all, dozens of sea turtles swimming peacefully everywhere. As one of the five top diving destinations in the world, Sipadan, the small rainforest-covered tropical island rising from a 700 meter abyss in the Celebes Sea, is an ultimate diving spot that a committed diver cannot miss.
Diving at Sipadan is certainly world class, so this place has attracted many diving lovers. It is well-known that divers are able to see about 150 species of butterfly fish within a single dive in Sipadan. Utilized by marine biologists as the indicators of coral reef health, a great number and species diversity of butterfly fish implies the abundance and diversity of corals. Pristine coral reefs are also landlord to other reef dwellers such as angelfish, snappers, wrasse, sweet lips, and parrotfish as well as the larger pelagic, barracudas, mantas, whales, dolphins and schools of hammerhead sharks.
Besides that, Sipadan Island is well-known with its vast numbers of Green and Hawksbill turtles which feed and breed within its waters before the females climb ashore to lay their eggs in the white sandy beaches. Others than that, diving near the coral reefs surprises you with incredible phenomena likes thousands of schooling chevron barracuda and big-eye trevally or ‘Jacks’. Moreover, floating inside such a tornado of fish is a truly breath-taking experience that is hard to beat.
On the other hand, Sabah is becoming one of the world famous location for ‘muck diving’. ‘Muck diving’ is used by divers to describe the search for rare and exotic small marine animals. Numerous rare and newly identified gobies can be found living in the corals, sand, mud and mangroves of Sabah, along with the rarely seen mimic octopus, neon patterned blue-ringed octopus, delicate flamboyant cuttlefish, psychedelic mandarin fish and ghost pipefish.
It is really worth to have a dive at Sipadan. Generally, the rate for three dives at Sipadan is just around RM260, plus RM40 for equipment (if required). Perhaps the rates might vary slightly among different operators. Boat transfers and packed lunch are included as well. Therefore you no need to worry about the food as there is no restaurant on the island.
It is vital to note that you need to have a permit from Sabah Parks in order to access the island, which will cost you RM40. Only 120 permits will be given out every day and they are typically obtained by the dive operators. You must make sure that the diver operator you choose is diving at Sipadan with permits, as some companies have been caught diving at the island without permits. You should check diver reviews of dive operators in the area before choosing as there are many have had customer complaints regarding faulty equipment.
Besides that, another tourist attraction of Sipadan is snorkeling. Eventually from the beach, the reef is easily accessible and parts of the reef further out can be reached by boat. There are a few dive tour operators bring snorkelers to the island at an all-inclusive rate of around RM170.

Best Time to Visit

You may make your way there any time all around the year but due to Sipadan is now a protected site, there is only 120 dives are allowed on Sipadan in a day. Therefore, it is highly recommended to dive as early as possible to beat the crowds and increase your chances of getting on the roster to dive.

Where to Stay

Previously, Sipadan Island was used to have resorts. In order to protect the environment, all the resorts were forced to close down around the year 2002. Hence, to dive on Sipadan, you have to stay somewhere nearby. There are resorts on the nearby islands likes Mabul which is 25 minutes away by boat and Kapalai which is 15 minutes away by boat.
As recommended, Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort is the best place to spend your night. It is just a few minutes by boat from the islands of Sipadan. Planned and built in full style as an airy, comfortable, sunny water village with no land in sight, Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort boasts a mile-long sandbank of powdery white sand where you can suntan at complete leisure while gazing out to the miles of brilliant turquoise stretching into the horizon offering the purest image of natural serenity. With the combination of sun and water in a unique and serene setting with friendly staff, Sipadan-Kapalai is an ideal stopover for you to have a great holiday experience.

Where & What to Eat

There are no restaurants on the island. You have to bring your own lunch and snacks there. Besides that, you are reminded to bring along your own water and drinks with you.

Nightlife

There is no nightlife on the Sipadan Island as it is not allowed to stay overnight on the island.

My to do List

- Diving
- Go to sandy beaches
- See the coral reef
-‘Muck diving’
- Snorkeling

Stay Away From

You should stay away from those companies that diving on Sipadan without permits from Sabah Parks. Make sure the diver operator you choose has diving permits from Sabah Parks.

Getting There

Getting to the Sipadan Island requires some effort. The best way for first timer is that by plane. At first, you may fly to Tawau from either Kuala Lumpur which is about three hour’s flight or from Kota Kinabalu which is about 50 minutes flight. Then, continue your trip by minivan or taxi to the port town of Semporna which will take you about one to two hours. And from there you may go to Sipadan itself by fast boat, which only spend one hour.

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malaysia travel : Diving in Malaysia

malaysia travel : Diving in Malaysia

Located in the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin where scientist believe the marine life of the pacific ocean evolved, Malaysia is one of the leading dive destinations of the world. From schooling hammerhead sharks, huge schools of barracudas and various turtles to the bizarre frogfish or ghost pipefish, there is always something to fascinate the diver. The variety of fishes, corals, and shells found in these waters are said to outshine even those found in the Pacific Islands. The diversity of the marine ecosystem here makes it an ideal location for underwater explorations.
For sheer beauty, Tioman is a magical spot, as is Redang Island. Both locations boast coral reefs of breathtaking majesty, and divers can glide through underwater caves, rifts, and passages of brilliant scenery. Of all the dive spots, there is one that stands on its own – Sipadan Island, off Sabah. With its deep waters, lush coral reefs, and vast array of deep ocean species, Sipadan was recognized as an underwater haven by none other than Jacques Cousteau, ocean explorer per excellence. Another such beauty in Sabah is Pulau Layang-layang (Island of the Swallows).

Dive centers in Malaysia are well equipped and are certified by relevant agencies for maintaining their standards of safety and professionalism. Scuba diving courses endorsed by certifying agencies like PADI, NAUI, SSI and BSAC. Some of the courses available include the initial ‘Open Water Course’, ‘Diving Instructor Course’ or even a ‘Re-breather Course’. Upon completion of your scuba course you can be outfitted with the latest scuba equipment of most international brands available from dive centers in Malaysia.
Almost all the islands in Malaysia cater for divers of all levels of experience – be it easy shore diving to advance wreck diving or technical diving. Operators engaged with technical diving are well equipped with portable emergency oxygen kits, special tank refilling equipment and other necessary facilities.

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malaysia travel : Golf Malaysia

malaysia travel : Golf Malaysia

Malaysia is a golfing heaven with world class golf courses to suit all tastes. Whether you’re thinking of a Malaysia golfing holiday or just a quick round of golf during your vacation, Malaysia is both a golfer’s paradise and simply paradise for a round of golf. There is a wealth of world-renowned course designers who have designed a wide-variety of layouts taking advantage of the mountains, the rain forests and the seashore in their design concepts.
Two courses that have attracted attention of late are The Mines Resort and Golf Club, just outside Kuala Lumpur, which hosted the 1999 World Cup featuring Tiger Woods and Mark O’Meara as well as the Women’s World Cup in 2000. In Borneo the Borneo Highlands Resort features the magnificent Hornbill Golf and Jungle Club launched by Tiger Woods in 1999.

 

Here golfers will find a wide range of grasses to play on. Many of the older Malaysia golf courses will still feature Cowgrass or broad-leaf indigenous grass on the fairways and rough, with Serangoon or Bermuda Tifway covering the greens.
However most of the newer golf courses will have the popular warm weather favourite Bermuda Tifway on the fairways and rough and TifDwarf Bermudagrass on the greens. Some courses prefer the resilient Zoysia Martrellia species, while the Sea Shore Paspalum variety is the grass used for seaside courses. The temperate climate Bent grass can be found in one of the mountain courses.

intensified by some of the most magnificent scenery in the world

The speed of the green range from 6 to 8 on the Stimpmeter, but in a small number of courses, the speed can rise up to as high as 10.
Malaysia is a place where the glorious pleasure of a round of golf is intensified by some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. It doesn’t matter whether you’re playing on a private, club or resort golf course – the views might change but the drama of it will not.
Among the golf enthusiasts of the world, Malaysia is still a well kept secret. Many courses though register growing visitor numbers from overseas.
Please note that we cannot guarantee the correctness of the detailed information on the golf courses, especially where fees are concerned.

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malaysia travel : Pulau Redang

malaysia travel : Pulau Redang
One of the largest and the most beautiful of the east-coast islands, Pulau Redang has, inevitably, been targeted by big developers, and there are few options for the independent traveler; nearly all visitors come on all-inclusive package deals.

reef is teeming with fish, turtles, live corals and other spineless creatures

Pulau Redang is one of nine islands that form a protected marine park, and it offers excellent diving and snorkeling. Of most interest to travelers are the beautiful bays on the eastern side of the island, including Teluk Dalam, Teluk Kalong and Pasir Panjang. Most resorts are located around the sandy beaches at Teluk Kalong and Pasir Panjang. Berjaya Beach Resort is located at Teluk Dalam, a bay that is so sheltered that it is hardly affected by the northeast monsoon.

There is so much to do on and around Pulau Redang, one can return year after year and still find new places to explore. The reef is teeming with fish, turtles, live corals and other spineless creatures. There’s snorkeling, diving, windsurfing and kayaking available at most resorts. Berjaya Resort offers a golf course in an idyllic setting if you are on a Malaysia golf vacation.

The Redang Archipelago is truly a gift sent from the heavens. The water surrounding these islands is teeming with marine life. About 500 species of living, breathing soft and hard corals create a wondrous seascape just below the white caps. And in turn these reef-building variety of corals shelter a host of inhabitants – a myriad species of bivalves and fishes. It forms part of Indo-Pacific Ocean’s breeding ground and nursery for many species of fish and other marine life. Sponges, algae and plankton provide a rich soup of nutrient for the thriving community. Green and hawksbill turtles drag themselves onto the white, sandy beaches to deposit their fertilised eggs into deep holes excavated under cover of night. Flying foxes, pythons, birds, mousedeers, monkeys and iguanas take refuge under the canopy of the forest. And in the late evenings when all human activities have quieten down, listen closely for you will here the heartbeat of the land, the whispers of the wind and the secrets of life – at Redang

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travel malaysia: Pangkor Island, Pulau Pangkor

Pangkor Island, Pulau Pangkor

 

Lying off Perak on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, this tranquil island with its white sandy beaches and charming fishing villages will enthrall you.
The name Pangkor may have originated from the Thai word Pang Ko meaning “Beautiful Island”. However others believe it may have been a memorial to Pang Kui, a legendary Chinese adventurer said to have lent his skills in seamanship to the bands of pirates this island once sheltered.
Pangkor’s main attractions are undoubtedly the wonderful offerings of its pristine beaches on the western coastline. Name after a legendary lovelorn princess, Golden Sands Beach or Pantai Puteri Dewi is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Located on the northwest of Pangkor, this 1.2 km stretch boats warm turquoise waters fringed with tall swayinf coconut palms. The beach here is ideal for sunbathing and recreational activities such as bird watching. Look out for hornbills said to roam the area.
Pasir Bogak Beach, a snorkeling site with an extensive reed and shallow waters, faces the channel between Pangkor and Pagkor Laut. Located nearby Pangkor town, this popular destination is a favourite haunt for picnickers due to its shady trees. Here, visitor can enjoy a kayak run or the simple pleasure of beachcombing.
Teluk Nipah is where tourists can enjoy both solitude and excitement by the beach. Take in the soothing lush greenery or browse the open-air stalls by the beach. A walkl across to Giam Island at low tide will reward you with a treasure trove of marine life.
Head to the Pulau Sembilan group of islands, 27 km south of Pangkor for a superb diving experience. The nine islands (sembilan means ‘nine’ in Malay) are uninhabited with an abundance of colourful marine life.
Eating out in Pangkor is a delight as there are restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Alternatively, head to Pangkor town to enjoy fresh seafood.
Pangkor Laut
Pangkor Laut is a world-renowned tropical island destination. A 20-minute boat ride from Pangkor, it boasts one of the finest beaches in the Straits of Malacca. Sunset cruises can be specifically arranged upon request. Couples can choose to have dinner by Emerald Bay which affords scenic views for a truly romantic experience.
Pangkor Laut houses an exclusive resort named after the island. The Pangkor Laut Resort was rated as the ‘best among the best’ by Conde Nast Traveller in 2003. Actress Joan Collins and renowned tenor Luciano Pavarotti have graced the resort. For those seeking complete rejuvenation, pamper yourself at the luxurious Spa Village.
Lumut
Lumut is the staging point to Pangkor if arriving by road or rail. Located 83 km from Ipoh, the state capital, it is home to the country’s principal naval base and a port which serves the hinterland. Teluk Batik, south of Lumut is popular for camping, boating and windsurfing. Nearby is Teluk Rubiah, another fine beach with a golf course. The Lumut International Yacht is a stopover while sailing the Straits of Malacca.
Lumut is 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur via North-South Highway. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur or Butterworth.
Getting There
By Sea
Pangkor is a 15 minute ferry ride from Lumut. Departures every half hour.
By Air
Berjaya Air operates direct flights from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport nearby Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor

 

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travel malaysia: Langkawi, Malaysia Guide

The island of Langkawi, Malaysia is an exotic holiday destination that offers accommodation of all kinds (from budget beach chalets to the most sybaritic five star resorts) and amenities sitting side by side with idyllic beaches, ancient rainforests and quaint villages. Langkawi Malaysia is an archipelago of 99 tropical islands (or 104, depending on tide) off the north-western coast of Peninsular Malaysia, about 30km from Kuala Perlis on the mainland. They’re accessible by boat from Penang, Kuala Perlis, Kuala Kedah and Satun, Thailand, or by air from Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
The only island with any real settlement is the eponymous 478sq km Pulau Langkawi; the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. The archipelago has some of the world’s most pristine rainforests, limestone and karst formations, caves with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and among the world’s most beautiful beaches washed by clear emerald waters teeming with marine life.
Langkawi Fun Map

Langkawi, Malaysia is warm and sunny all-year-round. Humidity is high and the annual average temperature is 25C – 32C. The island was named after two Malay words – ‘lang’ (eagle) and ‘kawi’ (reddish brown), hence the imposing eagle statue at Dataran Lang (Eagle Square), welcoming visitors who arrive on the island through the Kuah Jetty.
There’s so much to see and to do in Langkawi; diving and snorkeling in the pristine water filled with rich marine life tops the list for most people. You can also take a cable car ride up the mountain that offers a breathtaking 360 degrees panoramic view of the islands, the rural lowlands and the seas as far as Thailand. For nature lovers, you can explore the lush forests and appreciate the unique wildlife of the islands from a different perspective.
Public transport on Pulau Langkawi is limited, so you usually need to call a cab or rent a car, motorbike or bicycle – all are readily available.
There’s a huge variety of food available on Pulau Langkawi, ranging from cheap and good hawker food to a splurge for gourmet food in the restaurants. The famous laksa is not to be missed.
Langkawi, Malaysia is a duty-free shopping destination. Other than cameras, branded items, electronic gadgets, shop for lovely silk batik, handicraft and local products, especially those from the fishing villages

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malaysia travel : Mount Kinabalu

malaysia travel : Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu Introduction
Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain between New Guinea and the Himalayas and reigns over an astonishing variety of scenery. While the lower reaches of the mountain serve as a botany fanatic’s dream, it is the upper reaches that captured the hearts and imaginations of climbers. Mount Kinabalu is known to be one of the most accessible peak and no specialized mountain climbing skills are required to ascend it. Thousands of tourists visit Kinabalu National Park every year with the intention of reaching the summit (number of visitors at park headquarters now hovers around 200,000 per year).

the upper reaches that captured the hearts and imaginations of climbers

Most people take 3 days 2 nights to ascend and descend Mount Kinabalu, although it is doable in 2 days 1 night. The 8 kilometers ascend starts from the Timpohon Gate near park headquarters (1800m) at least before 11am, then another estimated 6 hours to reach the rest point Laban Rata (3273m). An overnight stay at one of the guest houses at Laban Rata is required if you intend to see the sun rise at Mount Kinabalu summit – you depart next morning at around 2am and it will take another 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit. Climbers then descend back to Laban Rata for breakfast before making their way down to the park headquarters by mid afternoon.
The distribution of flora on the mountain is a classic example of altitude and temperature-related zonation. From the warm lowland rainforests to the near-freezing alpine conditions at the summit, each zone is characterised by a quite different assemblage of plant species.
The best time to come to Mount Kinabalu is during the dry season from February to April, when walking and climbing is much more enjoyable. The temperature ranges from a comfortable 20-25 degrees Celsius at the main park to something approaching freezing near the top (depending on the weather).
What to Bring
1. Good Boots: Bring boots with good ankle support. Make sure they fit properly and are broken-in enough to ensure they are comfortable, because well-fitting boots can make the difference between an entertaining and a painful trip. Waterproof is a plus. Make sure it has good grip! Do not wear sneakers since they don’t support your ankles like boots do. The number one injury hikers face is twisted or broken ankles especially on during descend.

If packing space permits, pack in an open-toed sandals for your descending trip. It will be easier for the descend trip without pressing your toes against your boots all the time! Use it after Laban Rita and only if the ground is NOT slippery.

2. Water bottle: You can refill it on each shelter along the trail (rain water). I suggest reusing the plastic bottled water bottles; they’re a good size and very lightweight when empty.
3. Torchlight: Head-mounted is ideal for the night climb to the summit, as most of the time you have to hold the rope in the dark.
4. Personal First Aid

• Panadol / Paracetomol
• First aid kit with moleskin and bandages designed to cover blisters
• Sunscreen lotion
• Energy snacks: Trail mix or dried fruits are recommended but anything with high carbohydrate and low sugar will do. Also avoid snacks with a lot of salt as salt makes you thirsty.
• Bug Repellent

5. Plastic Bags: To hold your rubbish / keep clothes dry
6. Spare batteries: For torch light and camera
7. Smaller Bag / Waist Pouch: For the night climb
8. Waterproof jacket / Raincoat
The technical difficulty of the final summit stretch and the temperature at the top came as a surprise to most of the climbers on our trip, and few were prepared. The climb is not considered difficult in good conditions, but can rapidly become treacherous if the weather deteriorates. Mountain weather is notoriously volatile, as is tropical weather, and the two together pose a real threat to the safety of climbers and should never be underestimated. Make sure you have proper clothing prepared for the morning climb.
2 different sets of clothes for the Day climb, and Night climb.

Night Climb:
• Warm, lightweight jumper
• Warm, lightweight pants
• Woolen socks
• Beanie/woolen hat
• Gloves: To protect from cold and rope burn

Day Climb: It will usually be warm and sunny during the day climb, so lightweight clothing (t-shirts and Bermudas) is sufficient.

From the store at Laban Rata you can rent the following items:
• Sleeping Bag @ RM10 each;
• Jackets @ RM10 each (limited numbers of these);
• Blanket @ RM10 each;
• Towels @ RM5 each;
• Torch lights @ RM15 each (with battery) or RM5 without battery;
The Cost
Entrance Fees:

Malaysians – Adult RM3, Below 18 RM1Non-Malaysians – Adult RM15, Below 18 RM10

Compulsory Guide:

(Timpohon Gate / Peak / Timpohon Gate)1-3 Climbers RM704-6 Climbers RM747-8 Climbers RM80

(Timpohon / Peak / Mesilau Trail)1-3 Climbers – RM80.00 per trip4-6 Climbers – RM86.00 per trip7-8 Climbers – RM92.00 per trip

(Mesilau Trail / Peak / Mesilau Trail)1-3 Climbers – RM84.00 per trip4-6 Climbers – RM90.00 per trip7-8 Climbers – RM100.00 per trip

Climbing permit: This will be checked at both Laban Rata and the Sayat-Sayat hut.

Malaysians: Adult RM30, Below 18 RM12Non – Malaysians: Adult RM100, Below 18 RM40

Insurance: RM7
Day Climb to Laban Rata

Climbers are issued with permits after paying for their guide, their insurance and their climbing fee. The permit, which is individually numbered with your day of departure, must be carried on the trail for the duration of the climb. Most climbers will start their climbing at 8.00am from Timpohon Gate. After a short registration at the gate, you will be surprised that the short first section of the rough gravel and sand track leads down, not up, across small gully to join the main flank of the mountain, and past the little trickle of Carson’s falls, named after the first Park Warden.
From here the trail rises steadily as a series of rough, uneven steps, right up to the overnight huts at Laban Rata (3,272 meters/10,735 feet). One of the most appealing aspects of the trail is the regular appearance of rest huts every kilometer or so. Each shelter has a toilet and untreated mountain water source to refill your drink bottle.
At a height of about 2600 m. is the region which abounds with pitcher plants. Pitcher plants are carnivorous plants whose prey-trapping mechanism features a deep cavity filled with liquid known as a pitfall trap. Once an insect fell in, it is impossible for them to get out. As they drown and dissolve in the liquid, the nutrients are absorbed by the plant.
The average time taken to reach Laban Rata is about four or five hours.
Laban Rata

Laban Rata, the name of the most comfortable hostel on the mountain and also unofficially the name of everybody’s rest stop for the night, is located at 3272 meters. It has 52 dormitory style bunk beds with a common bathroom, heated showers and room heaters, conveniently located in the same building as the restaurant. It also has two private units the first of which can sleep 4 (2 x twin and 1 x double bed) or 2 (1 double bed). Both the private units have attached bathrooms and heated rooms and showers and is still in the same building.
• Dormitory bunks @ RM 69 per person per night;
• 4 pax unit @ RM 300 for the unit per night;
• 2 pax unit @ RM 180 for the unit per night;
Another 10 minutes walk further up from Laban Rata is the Gunting Lagandan Hut, a second dormitory style accommodation. Featuring 60 beds at RM 46 per person per night, it’s usually the next option when Laban Rata is full. It has basic cooking facilities (as Laban Rata has the only restaurant) and a common bathroom, which now feature hot water. The rooms, however, are still not heated.
Two additional units, further away from Laban Rata than just quick walk, is the Panar Laban Hut and the Waras Hut. Each able to sleep up to 8 people on dormitory style bunk beds, it has basic cooking facilities with common bathrooms. The water is not heated, as are the rooms. The rate is also RM46 per person per night.
The dining room at Laban Rata is quite a pleasant place to unwind from the walk. Tea and coffee is available, as well as a range of soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, chocolate and snacks. There’s also a ‘post office’ where trekkers can write and send postcards from high altitude! Drinks and snacks are more expensive than you’d expect to pay elsewhere in Sabah, but keep in mind that all the supplies at Laban Rata have to be carried up by porters.
Dinner is available from the early evening onwards. A range of four or five dishes is served, buffet-style, and it’s amazing how much food you can eat after expending so much energy during the day. Malaysian and Western dishes are offered, so everyone will be able to find something to satisfy their hunger.
If you are susceptible to mountain sickness, you may feel some headache, nausea, muscle ache and giddiness just before dinner time. You can take some medication to relieve the symptoms before you go to sleep.
In addition to the restaurant, there is also a reception area/check-in for your accommodation, as well as a souvenir/supply shop for if you still don’t have everything you need. There’s also limited facilities for excess luggage you deem unnecessary for your final stretch to the summit.
Night Climb to Low’s Peak

The next phase of climb will begin at about 3.00am, when you are woken for an early breakfast (at least a hot drink is advisable). You do not have to bring your alarm clock, as the noise of other climbers and guides will definitely wake you up. The restaurant is open at that time, but you can have you own hot drinks at your own hostel.
Above Laban Rata, the trail continues as a series of wooden ladders, fashioned out tree roots and branches. This is where a good torchlight is essential – as most of the time you have to hold something for stability, it is best if you have a headlight.
It would take about 1 – 2 hours to reach Sayat-Sayat. This is the highest mountain hut at 3810 meters (12,500 feet). Climbers will have their permits, registrations checked and given a whistle for safety here. This is also the last point to refill water, and to answer nature’s call. Beyond this point, there’s not even a small bush to hide you doing your nature’s call! You will now head up to the Summit of Mount Kinabalu, Low’s Peak.
The gradient after Sayat-Sayat can become incredibly steep and can be quite tricky and treacherous in parts, there are some places where the trail can be as steep as 70° angle! Always stay close to the rope so that you will not get lost.
The actual terrain is flat underfoot, but it is common to see climber bent almost double at the waist to keep their balance. There are parts when you’ll need to grab the rope, which is bolted into the rockface at regular intervals, to help you up short sections. It will take up to an hour and a half to get from Sayat-Sayat to Low’s Peak. Even before you reach the top of Low’s Peak, the views in all directions are incredible – St John’s Peak to the west, the Donkey’s Ears to the east and the distinctive South Peak to the south make up incredible scenery. The view of the surrounding peaks is magnificent. By 6.00am, you will be able to see most of the peak very clearly.
Panoramic Mount Kinabalu

Descent

On the way down, don’t run down the summit slabs. Several people break a limb doing this every year, when they get to a bit where it steepens and find that they are unable to stop…
At first, the downhill walk from Low’s Peak is blessed relief to your weary legs. However, as most seasoned trekkers know, it’s often harder to walk downhill for long periods than it is to climb uphill and Mount Kinabalu is no exception. When climbing down, you are exhausted and most of you weight will fall on both of your thighs, knees and the ball of your foot. Be very careful. Most of the accidents happen during the descent.
The descent to Laban Rata will take about two hours and it can be quite dangerous in places. Again, take your guide’s advice about where to walk and how to approach some of the more dangerous steep sections. Take some breakfast at Laban Rata and relax for a while, pack your gear and head on down. Stop and drink water regularly and eat high-energy snacks as it will get warmish on the way down and you need to remain hydrated.
If you start climbing down at 10.00am, you will arrive at Timpohon Gate at about 1.00pm. There will be a bus waiting for you there to pick you up and send you to the Kinabalu Park HQ office where you will register with park authorities that you’ve completed the climb. You can also purchase your certificate (RM10) for climbing the mountain: a colour version for those who reach Low’s Peak, and a black and white version for those who reach Sayat-Sayat.

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malaysia travel : Genting Highlands

If you are looking to spend some quiet time to relax, this may not be the ideal vacation location especially during peak season where Genting Highlands can get really chaotic with the influx of tourists from Singapore. Long queues are a common sight at hotel lobbies, and don’t expect good customer services.
Apart from the casino, Genting also houses an outdoor and indoor theme parks as well as a wet park. Its First World Plaza is the place to go for shopping and dining. There are also few hotels at the resort, ranging from budget to five star hotels – Genting (5 star), Highlands (5 star), Resort (4 star), First World (3 star) and Theme Park (3 star).
The furnishing of most hotels are pretty old and worn out. In fact, most of the rooms require renovations if they are to keep up with times (don’t be misled by the photographs of the hotel rooms shown on the websites!), hotel rooms are also unheated and can get chilly at night, especially during rainy days.

What to see and do

Theme Parks
For families with children visiting Genting Highlands can be lots of fun. There is a wide selection of outdoor and indoor theme parks. For water lovers, there’s a choice between an indoor splash pool with warm water, or an outdoor water park.
The outdoor theme park features more than 20 classic rides suitable for the entire family, such as the double loop Corkscrew, Rolling Thunder Mine Train, Cyclone and Flying Dragon. Other more gentle rides such as the monorail, mini train, Tea Cup and Flying Jumbo are suitable for small children.
The sparkling, new First World Plaza indoor theme park is the home for six theme areas from around the world each featuring unique rides — France (Champs Elysee), England (London), Italy (Venice), America (Times Square and Universal Walk), Switzerland (Swiss Alps) and Malaysia (Genting Walk).
The First World Plaza also boasts the Genting Sky Venture, the only free fall skydiving simulator in Asia.
Opening Hours
Outdoor Park: Weekdays – 10am to 6pm , Weekends – 8am to 8pm
Indoor Park and First World Plaza rides: Daily 8am to 12midnight.
More information about ticketing can be found at the Genting Highlands website, there are often discount promotions for purchasing the Theme park passes online.

Casinos
The casinos in Genting Highlands offer a host of exciting international games, among the popular of which are: Roulette, Baccarat, Blackjack and Carribean Stud Poker. There are also countless of jackpot machines, , but many if most require signing up with Genting’s WorldCard system if you want to withdraw any winnings.
Entry requirements: 21 years of age (irrespective of nationality and race) and a non-Muslim (if you are a Malaysian citizen)
Dress code: Long sleeve Batik Shirt or long sleeve shirt with tie
Where to stay

Theme Park hotel
Being one of the pioneer hotels in Genting Highlands with over 20 yrs of history, you can expect Theme Park Hotel to be pretty rundown. Although renovations had been carried out a couple of times, but still the Theme Park Hotel doesn’t meet anything near to nice. The Family Suite in the Theme Park Hotel is probably the best value for money.
For more savings, try booking the rooms via Genting Highlands website where extra discounts are often offered. The good thing about Theme Park Hotel is that it is located right next to the outdoor theme park but it is quite a distance from the coach depot which is located next to First World Hotel. For those who frequent the casinos, Theme Park hotel is also the furthest from it.

First World Hotel
With more than 6,100 “well-furnished� rooms, First World hotel is recognised as the largest hotel in the world by The Guinness World Records. What is not listed in the record book is the size of the rooms; TINY is the only word to describe them. The rooms are not sound proof and it can get quite noisy due to the proximity of theme parks and shopping areas. However all these are tolerable if you are not planning to spend too much time in the room.
There’s 2 different “towers” in First World Hotel, the OLD tower and the NEW tower. Always insist on getting the rooms in the NEW tower. Although the rooms are still quite small, but the differences between the OLD and NEW tower is world apart! ( For Singaporeans : Never book through an agent in Singapore as they will issue rooms to the old tower. If you already have a Genting green world card, just call the Singapore hotline and booked thru there, ask for the NEW tower. )
Adjoining the hotel lies First World Plaza with approximately half a million square feet of shopping, food outlets and entertainment space. Among the facilities at the Plaza are – The Starworld Casino, an indoor theme park, theater hall, restaurants, shops, internet cafés and food courts.
Resort Hotel Genting Higlands
Resort Hotel has 838-rooms which adjoin the Genting Hotel. The rooms are very run down, at best 3 star grade. There’s no mini bar or any complimentary drinking water offered.
From the comments:
By Lang on May 7, 2008
Resort hotel recently underwent a makeover.. the rooms are much better now..and toilet spacious and clean..they even installed nice shower heads
Genting Hotel
The only 5 star rating hotel at Genting Highlands, but don’t be fooled by the official ratings. Most visitors will be disappointed by the state of the room in general considering that you are paying for a 5 star room price. Although there’s a heated swimming pool, you won’t find any swimmers due to the “cleanlinessâ€� of it.
Awana Genting Highlands Golf & Country Resort
Getting to the central Genting entertainment area was a hassle, having to wait and queue for a bus to get to the cable car only to queue some more. Getting back to the hotel was at an non-negotiable price by taxi. It was the same price I had paid to get to Awana from KL city-centre. Probably would have been smarter to take the taxi back to KL rather than back to Awana.
The night I spent there cost more than most of the hotels up in Genting highlands. It was not the ideal golf resort it made itself out to be. The decor resembled and old ski lodge from the 1980′s. As a matter of fact it did smell much like the an old bookstore…. it had a musky feel to it all.
Hotel Seri Malaysia Genting Highlands
Located in Gohtong Jaya, Hotel Seri Malaysia Genting Highlands is a little bit out of the way from the actions in Genting Highlands but it offers tranquility within its quiet and cool surrounding. There’s shuttle service to go to the peak of Genting Highlands and the Skyway station is also close by.
Hotel Gohtong Jaya
Another small hotel located in Gohtong Jaya, away from the hustle and bustle of where the action is at the peak of Genting Higlands.
Eating and Dining

As Genting is a highlands resort, food is generally overpriced and mediocre. Local, Western and fast food (Mc Donalds, KFC, Burger King and Mary Brown) is widely available. Most restaurants are halal to cater for the large number of Muslim visitors.
Coffee Terrace: Coffee Terrace is manage by the Genting Hotel and specialised in local dishes that are served for breakfast until supper time. You can either go for its buffet spread or order the food ala carte. Its Hainanese Chicken Rice is said to be the best chicken rice that you can find in Genting Highlands. Its Indian-style Fish Head Curry is also worth to try.
Canteen Station Highland: This 24 hour food outlet is known as Kanteen Stesyen Highland (Canteen Station Highland) which is located beside Theme Park Hotel. The canteen caters mainly to employees of the resort and bus and taxi drivers plying the routes between Genting Highlands Resort and other cities. Many visitors and tourists can be seen patronising the canteen as well.Local food and delicacies such as nasi lemak, roti canai, kueh, fried noodles and selected mixed vegetables rice are available in the canteen. The Canteen Station Highland is probably the place for the cheapest food at Genting Highlands!
Penang Food Village (Theme Park Hotel): This restaurant would be unremarkable anywhere else in Malaysia, but in Genting it’s a notch above the competition: prices are reasonable (most mains under RM10), there are no crowds or clouds of smoke, and the food is tasty. Try the lor mee (noodles in black gravy).
The Olive: Located at the Lobby Floor of Genting Hotel, the Restaurant exudes a modern, arty design with a casual, welcoming feel in its ‘olive’ colours and warm lighting. Offering Continental cuisine served in a trendy yet elegant ambiance, the food features textures, flavours and styles in a blend of classical recipes with contemporary ingredients and tastes. There are choices of the best cuts of meat, seafood, salads, pizzas, delicious desserts, fine wines and more. Juicy, succulent Wagyu Beef is the house specialty. The promise of a gastronomic adventure awaits.
Starbucks and Coffeebean can be found at Genting Highlands, but often will be crowded especially at night time.
How to get here

Genting Skyway
Genting Skyway connects Genting Highlands with the skyway station in Gohtong Jaya town. Covering a distance of 3.8km, it is South East Asia longest skyway system and also the world’s fastest skyway (at the maximum speed of 6 metres per second, the 3.38 kilometres journey up the mountain peak takes only 11 minutes).
Passengers will disembark at the smart and impressive Genting Skyway Station at Gohtong Jaya. Bus and car parking facilities are readily available. The ultra-efficient station will allow hotel and luggage check-in procedures to be completed at the station itself. Visitors need only sit back and enjoy a leisurely ride up to the holiday resort without having to go through further hassles of checking-in formalities while at hotels.
Fare: RM4.00 one way, RM7.00 return

By bus
Genting Express Bus is a conveneint and economical way to travel to Genting. The buses leave from various locations in KL to Gohtong Jaya as follows:
Puduraya – Gohtong Jaya Skyway station

GENTING EXPRESS BUS SERVICE Ticketing Office: Counter No.43, Ground Floor, Puduraya Bus Station, Kuala Lumpur Opening Hours: 7am – 7pm (Monday – Sunday) Tel: (603) 2072 6863

KL Sentral Station – Gohtong Jaya Skyway station

GENTING EXPRESS BUS SERVICE Genting counter at Level 2, KL Sentral Station

Hentian Duta – Gohtong Jaya Skyway station
Terminal PUTRA LRT Gombak – Gohtong Jaya Skyway station

GENTING EXPRESS BUS SERVICE Ticketing Office: Ticketing Counter, Terminal Putra LRT Gombak. Opening Hours: 7.30am – 7pm Monday – Saturday. 8.30am – 7pm on Sunday Tel: (012) 2369 611

All buses take around one hour and cost RM8.30-8.50 one way. From the skyway station, its a mere 11 minutes journey by the Genting Skyway to Genting Highland. However, if the skyway system is closed for maintenance, all buses will go straight to Genting Highland. Buses departing after 8 PM head directly to the resort.
If you do not want to take the cable car:
Go to TITIWANGSA station in Kuala Lumpur, head for the PEKELILING bus terminal visible from the train station. Board the maroon red Genting Bus (depart every 1/2 hr till bout 10 or 11 at night. fare is RM5.60 per person) which will take you all the way to First World Hotel bus terminal (estimated 1 hour bus ride).

GENTING EXPRESS BUS SERVICE 6.30am 7.00am 7.45am 8.30am 9.00am 9.30am 10.00am 10.30am 11.00am 11.30am 12.00nn and every ½ hour until 9.00pm

Transtar also operates one daily bus direct from Singapore (S$68/57 one-way from/to Singapore).

By Car
It will take approximately 45 minutes to reach Genting Highlands – City of Entertainment if you start your journey from Kuala Lumpur Karak Highway. You can drive up either along Kurak Highway or the Batang Kali Road.
From South:

1. At Sungai Besi Toll, proceed straight, keep left, enter exit to Cheras heading up the flyover. 2. Follow Cheras direction, go straight. 3. Pass by Makro on your left, go straight. 4. Follow Ampang direction 5. Pass by Ampang, go straight and you will pass Zoo Negara and Melawati (on your right). 6. Go straight, follow Kuantan direction. 7. Exit Kuantan flyover. Go up the flyover and join Karak Highway. 8. After the Karak Toll, proceed on till you pass the Genting Sempah tunnel. Exit to Genting Highlands after the tunnel.

From North:

1. From Ipoh (North-South Highway), exit to Rawang Interchange. Proceed to Rawang Town. 2. Pass Rawang, Sungai Choh and Serendah Towns. 3. Next town is Batang Kali. Turn right to Genting Highlands (Signboard shown) 4. At the next T-junction, turn left to join road to Genting Highlands. 5. Afyer about 10-15 minutes, you will see Genting Skyway Station on your right. Proceed and follow directions to Awana and Genting Highlands.

Toll Charges from Singapore to Genting Highlands:
Malaysia causeway RM2.60
Enter N-S highway at Skudai toll , exit at Sungai Besi – RM41.90
From KL, go on till Karak highway – RM5.00
Total one way : RM49.50

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