Thursday 24 May 2012

Melaka River Cruise



The river was the main artery of trade for Melaka in its heyday when it was bustling with traders from all around the world. Some buildings from that era still stand majestically by the river, which is also lined by old villages, or kampungs, and modern day buildings. The 45-minute cruise is accompanied by an entertaining and informative commentary. And, for just RM8, it's a good bargain. See parts of historical Melaka, get a history lesson for next to nothing, and never break a sweat!


More destinations in Melaka

Wednesday 23 May 2012

Cameron Highlands



Cameron Highlands is the smallest district in the state of Pahang which is located in the north-western corner of the state. One of the wonders of Malaysia, it is the largest and most famous hill resort in the country. This highland paradise still retains much of the charm of an English village.

Being a primarily agricultural domain, you will find an abundance of vegetables and fruits farms here. Cameron Highlands is also the leading producer of flowers and tea in Malaysia. Be prepared for a lovely sight of extraordinary flowers you won’t see flourishing elsewhere in Malaysia! Located on the Titiwangsa Range at about 1500 metres above sea-level, the temperature here can drop to 16 ˚C or lower at certain times.

Cameron Highlands is made up of 4 main townships followed by smaller settlements at different elevations. The first town from the south is Ringlet, followed by Tanah Rata, Brinchang, Kea Farm, Tringkap, Kuala Terla and Kampung Raja.





More destinations in Pahang

Bukit Tinggi Pahang


Colmar Tropicale

Bukit Tinggi is just over an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur City centre and lies some 2,500 feet above sea level. Colmar Tropicale, located in Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, is a replica of a collection of buildings from a north-eastern village in France dating back to the 16th Century. It's just like a picture postcard. The French themed resort was opened in July 2000. It's surrounded by lush tropical forest land. Just RM 16 for adults and RM 8 for children below twelve, you can enjoy the various entertainment at Colmar Tropicale. A clock tower at the entrance welcomes the visitors. You need to walk up (and down) curvy concrete staircases to view the entire development.

The theme hotel is made up of eight blocks of architectural wonder, each with its unique style, from its colourful roof tiles to cobblestone ground. The hotel has several outlets, where you can dine in the French way. Central to the village is Colmar Square where the aroma of the blooms will tantalise your senses. There are fountains and park benches in the square for relaxation after a hard day's work browsing in the 17 theme shops, or should one wish to take a breather from participating in the various activities. The drawbridge reminiscent of ancient castles, clock tower with an original cuckoo bird clock, and the viewing tower complements the ambience.

Live bands and snake performances entertain the visitors on a stage. A clown juggles balls and pins, rides on his cycle, hops around playing tricks and acting merry. Authentic French food is served from sidewalk cafes and restaurants. The tables are placed strategically around the square so you can enjoy a meal or glass of wine whilst taking in the ambience. The children can play with the adorable furry beings at The Rabbit Park and you can discover Japanese authenticity at the Japanese Village.

The Japanese Village is located at 3,500 feet above sea level. The first of its kind outside Japan. It encompasses a Japanese Tea House, Sakura and Ume Tatami Suites, and a Botanical Garden. An hour long authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony conducted by Kimono clad ladies can be observed at the Japanese Tea House located within a Japanese garden with mini waterfalls and a pond of multi-coloured Koi. A one kilometre walk path built on four acres of virgin forest lies the Botanical Garden. Here amidst lush greenery, one can appreciate the sight of multi coloured and multi shaped floral and fauna, hear the call of birds and monkeys, insects buzzing and the fragrance of the growing forest. Signs with names and information snippets of trees, plants and flowers were put up for visitors.