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Experiencing the Wonders and Adventures of Sepang – A Malaysian Getaway like no Other

Sepang, a vibrant destination in Malaysia, offers a blend of thrilling experiences and natural wonders. Known primarily for its world-famous Formula 1 circuit, this dynamic town also serves as a gateway to exhilarating adventures and serene escapes. From adrenaline-pumping water sports along its pristine coastline to tranquil explorations of its lush mangroves, Sepang is a treasure trove for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Banghuris Village

If you’re interested in rural culture around Sepang, consider visiting the Banghruis Village for a spot of responsible tourism, and the opportunity to see traditional Malay homes. Here, you can also indulge in a few activities such as rubber tapping and bean picking.

River Cruises

The Sungai Sepang Besar river area is a place with a truly rich ecosystem. Experience it for yourself with a fascinating river cruise, where you’ll get the chance to learn more for yourself, as well as be able to enjoy the breeze and sights within.

The HoHo Selangor

If you’re really on the hunt for things to do in Sepang, you should consider jumping on the Hop-on Hop-off Selangor, a tour bus opportunity which travels to the most popular natural attractions of Sepang. This bus allows you to get on or off at your leisure and explore the attractions however you wish, as you can just wait for the next bus to arrive to take you where you want to go.

ATV Riding

If you’re staying a resort such as the likes of the Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, you’ll likely have a chance to go on an ATV and ride around nearby villages, a honey farm, deserted beaches, and more. What’s more likely is the fact that you’d be able to do it for hours on end – so consider a resort with such options!

Discover The Top Gems of George Town: A Journey Through Heritage

Welcome to George Town, Penang, where history and culture are etched into every corner. This vibrant city is a treasure trove of heritage sites that tell the story of its rich past. If you’re a history buff or just curious about this UNESCO World Heritage Site, here are five must-see landmarks that will transport you back in time.

img via wikipedia commons

Khoo Kongsi

This grand clan house is a marvel of craftsmanship. Adorned with intricate woodwork and vibrant murals, it’s a testament to the cultural heritage of Penang’s Chinese community.

Penang Peranakan Mansion

Step into the world of the Straits Chinese with a visit to this mansion, located just an easy walk from a Georgetown Heritage hotel, such as the elegant The George Penang by The Crest Collection. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the unique culture and opulent lifestyle of the Peranakan people.

Armenian Street

Wander down this lively street, famous for its heritage shophouses and vibrant street art. It’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and see how history meets modern creativity.

Sri Mahamariamman Temple

As the oldest Hindu temple in Penang, it’s a vibrant spot full of colourful sculptures and traditional rituals. The temple’s atmosphere is both serene and lively.

Fort Cornwallis

Explore this historic fort, one of Penang’s oldest structures. Its well-preserved walls and cannons provide a glimpse into the colonial past and the strategic importance of the island.

Discovering the Wonders of Kenya – Wildlife Safari Adventures

Kenya is a land of breathtaking beauty and unforgettable experiences. Embark on a thrilling safari adventure and witness the magic of Africa firsthand. Explore the vast savannas teeming with wildlife, from the iconic Big Five to a dazzling array of birds and exotic creatures.

img via flickr

Spot the Big Five on a Thrilling Safari Adventure

Kenya is home to the legendary Big Five: lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo. Join an experienced guide and see these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Witness the Great Migration

Every year, between July and October, millions of wildebeest and zebra embark on an awe-inspiring journey across the savannas, known as the Great Migration. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a truly unforgettable experience. For the best safaris in Kenya, consider researching reputable tour operators such as SkySafari that prioritise responsible tourism practices that protect the environment and support local communities.

Explore Diverse Landscapes

Kenya boasts a variety of stunning landscapes beyond the savanna. Hike through the lush rainforests of the Aberdare Mountains, or marvel at the dramatic scenery of the Great Rift Valley. Relax on the pristine beaches of Mombasa, or visit Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingo flocks.

Immerse Yourself in Kenyan Culture and Traditions

Kenya is a land of rich culture and traditions. Visit a Maasai Mara village and learn about their unique way of life. Sample delicious Kenyan cuisine, or attend a traditional dance performance.

Fun Things to Do in Penang with Friends – Memories made to last

Penang, often called the “Pearl of the Orient,” is a vibrant island that perfectly blends modernity with history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re a group of thrill-seekers, food lovers, or culture vultures, Penang offers a plethora of activities that will make your trip with friends unforgettable. Here’s a guide to some of the most fun things to do in Penang with your friends.

img via wikipedia commons

1. Explore George Town’s Street Art
George Town, the capital of Penang, is renowned for its vibrant street art. Take a leisurely walk through the streets and hunt for the famous murals and wrought iron caricatures. These artworks are not only Instagram-worthy but also tell the stories of the city’s heritage. Don’t forget to strike a pose with the interactive murals!

2. Feast on Street Food at Gurney Drive
Penang is a food haven, and Gurney Drive is one of the best places to indulge in its culinary delights. From char kway teow to assam laksa and rojak, this food paradise offers a wide variety of local street food. Grab your friends, share a table, and try as many dishes as you can. Remember, the more, the merrier! You can also sit down for a great meal at one of the best hotels in Georgetown Penang that offer gourmet cuisine and great fusion foods like The George Penang by The Crest Collection.

3. Visit Penang Hill
For breathtaking views of the island, head to Penang Hill. Take the funicular train up the hill and enjoy the cool, refreshing air. Once at the top, explore The Habitat, a nature park with a canopy walk and treetop bridge. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. Enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee at one of the hilltop cafes while soaking in the panoramic views.

4. Discover the Wonderfood Museum
The Wonderfood Museum is a quirky and fun place to visit, especially for foodies. The museum showcases giant replicas of Malaysian dishes, offering a fun and educational experience about the country’s diverse culinary heritage. It’s a fantastic place to take creative photos and learn more about the local cuisine.

5. Relax at Batu Ferringhi Beach
If you and your friends are in the mood for some sun and sea, Batu Ferringhi Beach is the place to be. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the ocean, or try out various water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, or banana boating. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a lively night market where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy street performances.

Ho Chi Minh City: Beyond the Usual Tourist Trail

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, pulsates with energy. While historical landmarks and bustling markets are must-sees, the city offers unique experiences waiting to be discovered. Here’s a glimpse into some unconventional adventures.

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Underground Adventures: Cu Chi Tunnels

Once you arrive in Vietnam via MacKinnons Travels, delve right into the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passages used by Vietnamese guerillas during the war. Crawl through narrow tunnels, learn about ingenious camouflaging techniques, and gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s wartime resilience.

Two-Wheeled City Tour by Motorbike

Ditch the tour buses and experience the city like a local on a motorbike tour. Navigate bustling streets, zoom past iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral, and explore hidden alleyways overflowing with street food stalls. This adrenaline-pumping adventure offers the unique perspective on city life you get when you travel to Asia.

Coffee Culture Connoisseurship

Vietnam boasts a unique coffee culture. Embark on a coffee tour, venturing beyond the ubiquitous iced coffee. Sample speciality brews like “ca phe phin” (strong, filter coffee) and “ca phe sua da” (coffee with condensed milk). Learn about the bean-to-cup process and discover the hidden gems of Saigon’s thriving cafe scene.

Cai Rang Floating Market

Escape the city centre and experience the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market. Witness the colourful chaos as vendors sell fresh produce from their boats on the Mekong Delta. Glide through the waterways on a traditional sampan boat, soak in the unique atmosphere, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of southern Vietnam.

Trekking in Sri Lanka

Wondering where to spend your next island gateway? Sri Lanka will be an ideal choice with its exciting mix of mesmeric beaches, wildlife, and cultural sights.

Hill_Country | img by Sandali.L.Kumarasinghe via wikipedia commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Sri Lankan wildlife

Your safari tours in Sri Lanka will be incomplete if you fail to spot a Sri Lankan leopard. It is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. Leopard watching is an exciting activity adored by many tourists who visit Sri Lanka for a holiday. The Yala National Park consists of the highest density of leopards, and it is the best place to enjoy a glimpse of these wonderful spotted wild creatures.

Explore the picturesque hill country

Sri Lanka’s hill country is the most stunning, mist-wrapped land featuring spellbinding views lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and scenic mountains. Nuwara Eliya is a must-visit city showcasing some of the finest golf courses in Asia, breathtaking surroundings and exciting activities like course trekking, horse riding and camping. There are many accommodation options offered by travel entities like Amaya Resorts & Spas to make the best out of your stay.

A train ride to Kandy or Haputale

The train ride between Kandy and Ella is popular as one of the world’s top ten scenic train rides! This route will take you through vast and never-ending tea plantations in the country. The journey will take around four hours. Another option to consider will be to stop for a day or two in the small town of Haputale without going all the way to Kandy.

Go on a safari ride

Despite its appealing biological endemism, Sri Lanka is one of the world’s top five biodiversity hotspots. Sri Lanka is home to one of the three types of Asian elephants. Due to its largest concentration of elephants, leisure travellers from all around the world spare time to go on an elephant-watching safari to Yala.

Experience Sri Lanka without breaking the bank – Pro tips

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean is a precious island in the shape of a jewel. The island itself is a treasure trove of beauty, culture and history. There are numerous historical landmarks and lovingly preserved relics everywhere and there is so much to see! Here are a few tips for you so that you too can experience this lovely island without denting your savings.

Eat the local food

Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious! Primarily centred around rice and curries, all the savoury dishes are made using coconut milk and fresh, aromatic spices. A meal would typically cost you less than 5 USD and even if you go to a local restaurant, it is only 15 USD including table service. The fancier, western-style food here is what will cost you a lot but it’s not worth it, especially when the local food is out straight up to God’s food.

Accommodation

If you’re a solo traveller or a backpacker, many hostels and guest houses charge around 6 USD per night; you can’t go wrong with that price as you get a bed, mosquito net, shower, and a fan. Worrying too much about accommodation is not recommended because you can get amazing food and everything else you need for so cheap. However, if you’re travelling with your family or want to treat yourself to a nice vacation, investigate less travelled areas such as Kalutara; resorts are relatively easier to book. There are so many rooms, suites, and villas to choose from at places such as the Avani Kalutara Resort.

Getting around on the island

Conveniently, there is a bus from Colombo Fort Bus Station to the airport leaving every 30mins. It costs less than 10 USD and is the cheapest way to get to and from the airport. Getting from major cities to other destinations is easiest by train. It is cheap and the routes are very scenic. If you want to travel within a city tuk-tuks are your best bet! Seriously, these tiny taxis are a quintessential Sri Lankan experience that you must have.

What’s there to see?

If you have the time, go everywhere! Although the north suffered decades of civil war, they’re rebuilding and re-energizing which is an amazing feat that must be witnessed. The southern parts of the country are serene and beautiful with azure blue beaches, rainforests with magic in the air. The hill country is enchanting on its own with a different vibe and energy from the rest of the island. It truly is a beautiful country with so many diverse experiences all a few hours away from each other.

DIY Travel guide – Phan Nga, Thailand

Khao Lak is the perfect place to be if you want to relax peacefully without tourists and crowds lurking around. Unsullied by humans, this region of Thailand has many enchanting locations that you must visit at least once if you’re in Thailand. You can enjoy a spectacular skyline with mountains and see sunsets against the Andaman Sea.

How to get there

It is fairly easy to get to Khao Lak from any part of Thailand. Phuket is only an hour’s drive away. Out of the three population centres in Khao Lak, Bang La On is the best place for visitors because it is the most tourist-oriented. There are many food outlets, convenience stores and even McDonalds.

Where to stay

You can find many places to stay in Khao Lak. Since this area of the country is less “touristy” and more “Thai” you can find charming places for your vacation in Khao Lak Thailand. Resorts the likes of Avani+ Khao Lak Resort are also available if you’re looking for a more luxurious option.

White Sand Beach

This is a calm, serene strip of beach in Khao Lak. If you visit during the off-season, you’ll find that you’re the only person on the whole beach. It is recommended that you hire a motorbike and stay at the beach for as long as possible and make sure to catch the beautiful sunset.

Bamboo Rafting

Bamboo rafting down a river surrounded by pristine forests is an amazing experience. You can get a local tour guide to organize the trip for you and make sure that it is someone who knows the area well. It is a 30 min ride downstream and you get to stop for a swim as well.

The perfect laid-back holiday – Krabi, Thailand

The best holidays are not the ones where you went to the most popular places or the most expensive ones; it’s those trips where you shared happy memories with your family, friends and loved ones with good food, great views and lots of love. Thailand is a very popular tourist destination famed for the gorgeous sunny islands and crystal blue waves. The country is brimmed with visitors no matter what time of the year so it can be hard to find a secluded, less busy spot for you to truly have that intimate experience. No worries – Krabi, Thailand is not a mainstream destination, but it still is one of the most beautiful places in the country. This guide aims to give a few tips about the best attractions and activities there.

Where to stay?

The most important part of any vacation is finding accommodation. You must be able to relax and enjoy a happy, safe time with your family. Luckily for you, there are many Ao Nang hotels that fit every kind of budget and offer amazing amenities such as swimming pools, spas and even diving excursions. If you want to splurge a little and treat yourselves to a fancy villa experience, resorts such as Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort is a good option to consider.

Image via Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort

Getting to Krabi

It is super easy to get to Krabi as there is an International Airport there. However, if you’re arriving from another part of Thailand such as Phuket you can travel here by bus, and it only takes a few hours. There are also ferry services easily available to and from Krabi. Once you arrive at Krabi you can easily get to all your activities as there are many transport options available. If you’re only going to Krabi for one day, the most fun and quick way to get here is to catch a speedboat from Phuket.

The beauty of Krabi

Nicknamed the “Emerald of the Andaman” Krabi is a haven of natural beauty and breathtakingly fresh views. The unspoiled and secluded beaches are surrounded by tall limestone rocks and there are many caves, waterfalls and unique rock formations all along the graceful coastline. If you’ve read Life of Pi by Yann Martel, Krabi is very much like that gorgeous island Pi and Richard Parker wound up in; the only difference is that Krabi doesn’t eat you at night.

Things to do here

Most people come here to relax and enjoy a peaceful stay exploring the beautiful beaches and natural beauty. But there are great activities for tourists that are based on eco-tourism concepts. The most common and exciting excursion anyone can try is snorkelling. You can book a snorkelling day trip ahead of time and spend an entire day exploring the reefs, fish and Krabi’s diverse marine life in the offshore islands.

Phuket Experiences and Expeditions to Cherish

A vacation in Phuket is not just a walk by the beach. The city offers a bundle of exciting activities to tourists that are not only limited to the tropics of the island. Phuket is historically, naturally and artistically rich in its offerings to society, and a trip to this astonishing city should not miss these experiences.

Полина Славянская, Музей Thai Hua, CC BY 3.0

A History Like No Other

A walk down memory lane to Phuket’s incredible history will be an astounding experience. While Thailand had the fortune of being exempted from European colonisation, the country was a hub to begin new lives for many Portuguese, Dutch, British and French immigrants. This resulted in Thai culture, cuisine and architecture being infused into European forms, creating the perfect fusion of Western and Southeast Asian practices.

Visits to The Museum

Located less than an hour away from Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, the Thai Hua Museum is a Sino-Portuguese building that houses stories from the past of Phuket. The exhibitions and documentary screenings at the museum will give you an insight into the Phuket-China connection spanning back to the days of the 13th century. Most tourists staying at Phuket resorts pick the Thai Hua Museum as their first stop out of many sites to explore and admire.

Dive Into A World of Art

The dynamics and vibrant colours of contemporary brushstrokes define modern art in Thailand. Phuket is a shelter for both local and global art for those who appreciate it. Make sure to make pit stops at galleries like Patong Inn Art, The Phuket Gallery, Kampon Art Gallery and most importantly at the Wua Art Gallery, which is owned by local artist, Mr Zen.

A Wildlife Expedition

A sanctuary to over 10% of the fauna of the world, Thailand hosts more than 285 mammal species in their natural habitats. Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, Khao Sok National Park, Sirinat National Park and Similan Islands National Park are undoubtedly some of the top places to visit to get a glimpse of the terrestrial and aquatic animal lives of the country.