Saturday, October 31, 2009

Sudhnati

Pullandri is the headquarter of district Sudhanoti. It is at an elevation of 1372 meters and is at a distance of 97 kilometers from Rawalpindi via Azad Pattan, and is also connected with Rawalakot by 64 kilometers long metalled road. There is a PWD Rest House located at the hilltop, giving a wonderful view of the picturesque landscape and green mountains all round. All the basic facilities of life are available.

Mirpur

Mirpur district comprises partly plain and partly hilly areas. Its hot climate and other geographical conditions closely resemble those of Jhelum and Gujrat, the adjoining districts of Pakistan. The people of this area are basically farmers. Since the 1960s, a large number of people from this district have gone abroad , especially to the United Kingdom and the Middle East, for economic reasons. As such they are today the major foreign exchange earning source for Azad Kashmir and Pakistan. Around 50,000 people were moved from this district in the mid-sixties to make way for the construction of Mangla Dam. Most of these people settled in new Mirpur whilst some moved to Pakistan and the UK.

Muzaffarabad

Muzaffrabadthe capital of the Azad State of Jammu & Kashmir, is situated at the confluence of the Jhelum and Neelum rivers and surrounded by majestic mountains and looks like a walled paradise.

Gilgit

At an elevation of 1453.90 meter lies the Gilgit valley, offers spectacular scenic beauty. It is surrounded by lakes, rivers, glaciers and high mountains ranges. Some of them world's largest peaks, such as Nanga Parbat, 8125 meter and Raka Poshi, 7788 meter are located here.

The best season to visit is from May to mid October. The local dialect is Shina, however, Urdu and English are also spoken and understood.

Buddhist Rock Carvings carved out of the mountain side are worth paying a visit. It is about 10 kms away from Gilgit and the distance is covered in about 20 minutes in a jeep.

The Victory Monument of Taj Mughal was built about 700 years ago and lies at a distance of 11 kms from Gilgit and it takes about 25 minutes by jeep to get there.


Khyber Pass

The historic Khyber Pass being at a distance of 16 kms west of Peshawar and extends up to the Pak-Afghanistan border at Torkkam, 55 kms away. Starting from the foot-hills of the Slueman Range it gradually rises to an elevation of 1,066 meters above sea level.

Khyber Pass has been a silent witness to countless events in the history of mankind. As one drives though the Pas at a leisurely pace, imagination unfolds pages of history, the Aryans descending upon the fertile northern plains in 1,500 BC subjugating the indigenous Dravidian population and settling down to open a glorious chapter in the history of civilization, the Persian hordes under Darius (6th century BC) crossing into the Punjab to annex yet another province to the Achaemenian Empire; the armies of Alexander the Great (326 BC) marching through the rugged Pass to fulfill the wishes of a young, ambitious conqueror; the terror of Ghanghis Khan unwrapping the majestic hills and turning back towards the trophies of ancient Persia; the white Huns bringing fire and destruction in their wake; the Scythians and the Parthians, the Mughals and the Afghans, conquerors all, crossing over to leave their impact and add more chapters to the diverse history of this sub-continent.

NWFP

It runs for over 1,100 kilometres (680 miles) along the border with Afghanistan. Peshawar is its capital, and the Vale of Peshawar, fertile and well watered by the Kabul and Swat rivers, is its heart. This was also the heart of the ancient kingdom of Gandhara and is rich in archaeological remains. The northern half of the province consists of five river valleys running roughly parallel, north to south: the Chitral, dir, Swat, Indus and Kaghan. These valleys are on the northern edge of the monsoon belt, so are fairly green and partly wooded in their southern sections. Northern Chitral and the upper regions of the Indus Valley are mountainous deserts, where cultivation depends entirely on irrigation. The NWFP south of Peshawar is below the monsoon belt and consists of low, rocky mountains and wide, gravelly plains.

The warlike Pathans (or Pushtuns or Pukhtuns), who live in NWFP and the adjoining areas of Afghanistan, number about 17 million, making themselves a race apart, a chosen people, and no one has ever managed to subdue them. The Mughals, Afghans, Sikhs, British and Russians have suffered defeat at their hands. The Pathans are divided into numerous sub-tribes and clans, each defending its territory and honor. In addition, the Pathans serve as Pakistan's first line of defense along the Durand Line, the border drawn in 1893 by Sir Mortimer Durand, then foreign secretary of British India.

Peshawar

About 172 kms west of Rawalpindi/Islamabad by road about half an hour by air lies the last major town of Pakistan, the ancient and legendary Peshawar, city of proud Pathans. Peshawar the capital city of North-West Frontier Province, is a frontier town, the meeting place of the sub-continent and Central Asia. It is also a place where ancient traditions jostle with those of today, where the bazaar in the old city has changed little in the past hundred years except to become the neighbor of a modern university, some modern hotels, several international banks and one of the best museums in Pakistan.

No other city is quite like old Peshawar. The bazaar within the walls is like an American Wild movie costumed as a Bible epic. Pathan tribesmen stroll down the street with their hands hidden within their shawls, their faces half obscured by the loose ends of their turbans. (With his piercing eyes and finely chiseled nose, the Pathan must be the handsomest man on earth).

On the other side of the railway line is the cantonment, its tree-lined streets wide and straight as they pass gracious gardens.

Clubs, churches, schools, The Mall, Saddar Bazaar and the airport round out the British contribution to the modernization of Peshawar. Further west is University Town, Peshawar's newest section and the site of Peshawar University.

A local book, Peshawar, History City of the Frontier, by A.H. Dani and published by Khyber Mail Press in 1969, makes a good first purchase. It provides a detailed account of Peshawar's history and a tour of this city walls and ancient monuments.

Hana Lake

A little short of the place where the Urak valley begins and ten kms from Quetta is the Hinna Lake. The greenish- blue water of the lake provides a rich contrast to the sandy brown of the hills in the back ground.

The Urak valley is 21 km from Quetta city. The road is lying on both sides with wild roses and fruit orchards. Peaches, palms, apricots and apples of many varieties are grown in this valley.

Hazarganji Chiltan National Park, 20 km south-west of Quetta, rare animals like' Markhors' have been declared a protected species. The park is spread over 38,429 acres with altitude ranging from 2021 to 3264 meters.

It has a variety of wildlife specially Markhor of which there are five distinct kinds. The kind that is encountered most often is the Chiltan Markhor. The other animals include straight-horned Markhor, 'gad' (wild sheep) and leopards which occasionally migrate to the park from other areas, wolves stripped hyaena, hares, wild cats and porcupines.

Karachi

Karachi, the largest and the most populous city of Pakistan presents an interesting and colorful combination of the old and new. The narrow twisting lanes and alleys of the old city throb with life along-side the wide metal led roads and elegant modern buildings. Within the city, talented artisans with age-old skills produce handicrafts of exquisite beauty.

Karachi offers a variety of pleasant attractions: wide sunny beaches, deep-sea fishing, yachting, golf and horse racing all-year round. Its restaurants provide a wide choice of Pakistani and Western cuisine. Its markets and bazaar offer and endless variety of exciting shopping including indigenous handicrafts, rugs and carpets of rare design and beauty. Karachi's recorded history goes back to the 18th century when it was a small fishing village known as Karachi-jo-Goth. With the development of its harbor it gradually grew into a large city and an important centre of trade and industry.

Its selection as capital of Pakistan in 1947 added to its importance and tremendously boosted the rate of its growth and development. Although the seat of Government has now been shifted to Islamabad, Karachi still remains the epicenter of commerce and industry.

Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur

Designed by the Argentine-American architect Cesar Pelli, and completed in 1998, these are the world's tallest twin towers.

Each tower has 88 floors plus spires that reach to a height of 452m. Inside the towers, there are offices, a shopping centre, a concert hall and art gallery.

Office worker who want to cross over between towers can take the Skybridge that links the 41st and 42 floors.

KL Tower Revolving Restaurant Buffet Dinner and Central Market Night Tour

Dine in style at the top of Asia's tallest tower, the KL Tower. Treat a loved one to a sumptuous buffet dinner with ample seating to soak up the breathtaking panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur's night lights and conclude your evening with a stroll through Kuala Lumpur's famous "Central Market". Spend a night on the town in Kuala Lumpur at the Seri Angkasa Revolving Restaurant, on top of the tallest tower in Asia. The panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur by night are breathtaking from the KL Tower, and the restaurant revolves while you dine to provide an ever-changing vista.

You'll start the evening with a stroll in Kuala Lumpur's famous Central Market, where a wide selection of Malaysian handicrafts and souvenirs are on display. This is the place to have your portrait sketched by a local artist in less than 15 minutes.

Next you'll drive to the most imposing landmark in the city, the KL Tower. At 1,380 feet (421 meters), it ranks as the tallest tower in Asia. You will take a high-speed lift to the Seri Angkasa Revolving Restaurant for a sumptuous buffet dinner surrounded by the twinkling lights of Kuala Lumpur by night.

Private Tour: Elephant Orphanage Sanctuary Day Tour from Kuala Lumpur

Visit the Elephant Conservation Farm at Kuala Gandah - only one and a half hour's journey from Kuala Lumpur. Located in a beautiful tropical rainforest, the Elephant 'Sanctuary' in an ambitious elephant conservation program implemented and managed by the Malaysian Wildlife Society, where you come into close contact with semi-wild elephants. Truly an exciting and never-to-be forgotten experience!

Spend a very special day at the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary on a private tour you'll never forget. This truly exciting experience takes you to Malaysia's tropical rainforest, 1.5 hours from Kuala Lumpur, for a fully personalized visit to the elephant sanctuary.

The Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is an ambitious elephant conservation program implemented and managed by the Malaysian Wildlife Society. When you visit, you'll come into close contact with semi-wild elephants and spend an exhilarating day with these unique creatures. You'll take rides, feed them fruit and experience the thrill of bathing with the elephants at a nearby river all under the watchful eye and careful supervision of the elephant's skilled trainers. The specially trained and committed team of wildlife experts are dedicated to the protection and preservation of the Asian elephants.

At the sanctuary, you will also enjoy a 30-minute documentary on the conservation activities and programs carried out by the team. This private tour offers a wildlife experience that's not to be missed!

Friday, October 30, 2009

Shopping in Indonesia

Shopping in Indonesia - There are plenty of things to shop in Indonesia. Among the favorite shopping items are batik cloth, woodcarvings and sculpture, silverwork, woven baskets and hats, bamboo articles, krises (small daggers), paintings and woven cloth.

Bali is the best place to shop in Indonesia, with every conceivable item readily available. This is an excellent place to buy an incredible variety of souvenirs, arts and crafts, clothes, batik, and woodcarvings. Street vendors line kilometers worth of roads. Although the availability and range of goods here is excellent, this may not be the cheapest place to buy items. Prices are often ridiculously high and you are required to use all your bargaining skills.

To purchase traditional arts and crafts at much cheaper prices it is best to head out to the smaller, more remote towns in the archipelago. Markets and vendors in these areas will only sell arts and crafts made locally. Along with these more traditional street stalls, there are large western style malls in some of the bigger cities. They house more up market clothes shops and western fast food restaurants. Jakarta has the largest array of these malls. Prices here are normally fixed.

History of Indonesia

Origin & History of Indonesia - It is generally believed that the earliest inhabitants of the Indonesian archipelago were of Indian or Burmese origin. Later migrants known as Malays came from Southern China and Indochina at around 3000 BC. By the end of 7th Century, powerful groups such as Buddhist Srivijaya Empire and the Hindu Mataram kingdom developed in Java and Sumatra. The 13th Century witnessed the rise of Hindu Majapahit Empire in East Java, which united the whole of what is now modern day Indonesia and parts of the Malay Peninsula. The subsequent spread of Islam into the archipelago in the 14th century forced the Majapahits to retreat to Bali in the 15th century.

By this time, a strong Muslim empire had developed with its centre at Malacca on the Malay Peninsula. Its influence was short lived and it fell to the Portuguese in 1511. Then, in the middle of 16th century, Dutch displaced the Portuguese and began making inroads into Indonesia. The Dutch East India Company based in Jakarta dominated the spice trade and the Dutch took over the occupation of Indonesia for about 350 years. The Dutch East Indies, as Indonesia was known at that time, fell under British rule for the period of 1811-1816. Later on burgeoning nationalism combined with Japanese occupation of Indonesia during World War II weakened the Dutch resolve, and they finally transferred sovereignty to the new Indonesian republic in 1949. Achmed Sukarno-the leader of the freedom struggle- became the first President of Indonesia.

Business & Economy of Indonesia

Business & Economy of Indonesia - Economy of Indonesia is mainly based on agriculture and oil. Approximately 90% of the population is engaged in agriculture. In the agricultural sector, Indonesia has become self sufficient in rice and does not need to import this staple food as it had for years.

Earlier, oil and gas used to be a major foreign exchange earner but rising domestic consumption and stagnant oil production has now made Indonesia, a net importer of oil.

Tourism is steadily gaining ground and is emerging as major foreign exchange earner for the country. Indonesia is rich in natural resources. forestry products, rubber, coffee, tea, tin, nickel, copper, palm products & fish make important contributions to export earnings. In recent years a number of steps have been taken to promote and stimulate non-oil exports, which include handicrafts, textiles, precious metals, tea, tobacco, cement, fertilizers as well as manufactured goods.

Indonesia maintains a liberal foreign exchange system and has few restrictions on transfers abroad, and in general freely allows conversions to and from foreign currencies. The Rupiah-Indonesian Currency-is linked to a basket of currencies of Indonesia's major trading partners. The unitary exchange rate allows for fluctuation.

With the objective of a more equitable distribution of development gains, the government gives high priority to expansion in the less developed regions of the country and the creation of employment opportunities for the country's growing labour force. To attract foreign capital, certain incentives are provided and several sectors are open to foreign investment.

Best Time to Visit Indonesia

Best Time to Visit Indonesia - Best time to visit Indonesia is during dry season between April and October. The humidity is relatively less and weather is pleasant at this time of the year. Though travel in the wet season is possible in most parts of Indonesia, it can be a deterrent to some activities.

Penang Malaysia

Known as the "Pearl of the Orient" Penang Malaysia sits northwest of the peninsula less than 120km south of Langkawi. Named after the abundant betel nut trees in the area Penang was discovered in 1786 and was the first Far East British trading post established. The colonial era is evident in the plentiful buildings, many of which are still very much intact and wrought with history. A flight to Penang is popular for those not wanting to arrive in the busy metropolis of Kuala Lumpur.

Full of significant cultural relics and a slew of historical buildings, Georgetown is the state capital and a popular tourist destination during a Penang vacation. A Penang tour will reveal a host of interesting places to visit. Wat Chayamangkalaram is one of the many Buddhist temples in the area and is famous for its reclining, gold plated Buddha which sits at 33 meters long and is believed to be one of the largest in the world.

A visit to Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple during a Penang tour displays a number of Hindu deity statues, the most popular being Lord Subramaniam which is adorned with silver, gold, diamonds and other precious stones. Georgetown is on the top of the list for many during a Penang tour and is brimming with distinct and varied cultures and countless historical sites.

Since about 90 percent of the population is Chinese a visit to one of the tea houses in Chinatown is a must during Penang tourism. After tea time head to the Cintra Street Bazaar and find a enormous collection of Chinese antiques and crafts made by skilled artisans. The bazaar flanks two well known streets excellent for exploring. During the evenings this area bustles with some of the best hawker goods found on the island of Penang Malaysia.

Against the commanding Mandarin presence, the vibrant and dynamic Indian community ha flourished in commerce and culture for over a century. Little India is another great spot to explore during your Penang tour. Street vendors and money-swappers sell a dizzying variety of goods and offer some of the best shopping in the vicinity. The vividness of many different religions can be seen along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, or Pitt Street as it was first called. Transportation by foot is the best way to explore the major boulevard during a Penang vacation. Along this expansive route you’ll find the Goddess of Mercy Temple, Kapitan Kling Mosque, Maha Mariamman Temple and the Acheen Street Mosque at the very end.

A few other interesting sights to visit during Penang tourism are the Convent Light Street which is the oldest girls school, artifacts on Nyonya and Malay culture at the University Museum & Art Gallery, the jungle valley at the aromatic Tropical Spice Garden and Khoo Kongsi which is said to be the most extraordinary clan home in Malaysia where intricate carvings, detailed pillars and gold leaf inlaid walls and beams are dominant. Dining can be found all around the area so settle in for a delicious lunch or dinner after sightseeing.

A Penang flight is now more accessible than ever before. Numerous airlines including Firefly, Malaysian Airlines and Air Asia are linking many South East Asian countries, India, Australia, China and Europe to Penang making a Penang flight more readily available and affordable. Before these airlines began regular service to the city a Penang flight had to travel via Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. Penang tourism has already begun to flourish even more with these developments. Flights range anywhere from 200 pounds and up depending on where you fly in from for your Penang vacation.

Penang Malaysia is a great alternative to its sometimes exhausting capital counterpart. Things to do in Penang come in a variety making it a destination favored by many different people. Despite rapid growth a number Malaysia beaches still offer plenty of great ocean activities on the northern area of the island. Penang hotels come in variety and the cuisine is delicious and varied offering something for every palate.

Genting Highlands Malaysia

A magnificent hilltop city is the perfect way to describe the Genting Highlands Malaysia. Only 50km’s from Kuala Lumpur, the Genting Highlands is a revered family destination that keeps kids and adults busy with many events and things to do. Offering a unique and quiet getaway from the often frantic pace of larger cities, a Genting Highland vacation can be the perfect way to spend quality time with your family.

Cool rejuvenating air affords a crisp, cool alternative to stuffy roads and byways while the flourishing tropical rainforest is blanketed in a continuous mist casting a mysterious aura over the area. With average temperatures between 16 and 23 degrees it's hard to believe Genting Malaysia is in a hot, equatorial country!

A Genting Highland vacation is most definitely for those who love a beautiful, natural backdrop complimented with the modern services of a larger city. Aside from the lush surroundings and refreshing cool air the Genting Highlands is also home to the only casino in Malaysia that has been used as the backdrop for many popular Asian and Hollywood films. Many locals head to the casino for Baccarat, Roulette, Tai Sai, Blackjack, slots and more.

The Genting Highlands have two theme parks that are the other exciting element to the area offering many rides and all kinds of other entertainment. With a double loop, corkscrew roller coaster and water park kids will go crazy over this thrilling amusement park. The X-Pedition Wall,Van Helsing ride, SnowWorld, Genting Malaysia Sky Venture and Ripleys are the signature highlights here during Malaysia holidays.

Hiking in the Genting Highlands Malaysia is another popular activity where you can explore the surrounding tropical rainforest. Jump on the jungle train and be whisked away to Taman Negara National Park where stunning views abound. The most extensive "canopy walkway" in the world is found here and many varieties of wildlife can be spotted while trekking through the forested area. Be sure to take good walking shoes and bug spray on this Genting Malaysia excursion!

With such close proximity to the capital many people make the drive to the Genting Highlands and stay a night or two with enough time to enjoy a few of the more popular circuits. With a history of 35 years behind it this Malaysia resorts continuously being developed with more attractions. Genting Highland hotels can be found in within three distinct hotels, two self- catering apartments and one major resort. Keep your eye out for great seasonal deals.

Malaysia golf is not far from the avid golfer taking a Genting Highland vacation. The Awana Golf and Country resort offers up a challenge with its par 71, 18-hole golf course. The Awana horse ranch offers those hoping for an equestrian experience a chance to take lessons or go for exciting rides through the mountains.

Many locals choose Genting Highlands Malaysia expressly for its exciting nightlife. Many dinner shows and discos showcase international entertainment that’s hard to find in other parts of the country. Enjoy terrific dining while enjoying Las Vegas-style shows with exotic dancers, charismatic magicians and famous singers from around the world. The Big Rock Disco CafĂ© offers tunes for party-goers into the wee hours.

For a well-rounded vacation visit the Genting Highlands and discover what this South East Asian hilltop resort has to offer. Your kids will be pleased and never bored. Adults have the pleasure of engaging in both exciting indoor and outdoor activities and the best part is that families can stick together and enjoy a wealth of family-style attractions.

Malaysia

In the last few decades, after strife in the country has settled, Malaysia tourism has kicked off. Many are now booking a Malaysia vacation to enjoy the many appealing natural wonders, historical monuments, big city delights and modern conveniences that can be found all over the country. Extreme contrasts come together in a unique blend of ethnic backgrounds which contribute to all things excellent about Malaysia and make up this gastronomical paradise with each unique cultural aspect forming one national identity.

When visiting Malaysia travel often starts in the capital of Kuala Lumpur. The biggest attraction here is the Petronas Twin Towers, one of the tallest buildings in the world. A short trip away is the mysterious Batu Caves which is lit up by colorful parades during Hindu festivals and events. Public transportation is fast, efficient and inexpensive. The city is replete with eclectic shopping, magnificent temples, welcoming locals, excellent restaurants, a huge array of Kuala Lumpur hotels and animated streets and avenues.

The island of Borneo sees thousands of tourists each year wanting to experience the incredible natural wonders of the island during Malaysia travel experiences. The Borneo rainforest is one of the biggest attractions in Malaysia tourism drawing many to Sabah who have long-dreamt of exploring the vast rainforest and experiencing the sights and sounds of magnificent flora and fauna blanketing the area. Tourists normally head to the charming city of Kota Kinabalu to kick off their Malaysia vacation.

With a solid infrastructure in the form of many fantastic Kota Kinabalu hotels, restaurants and attractions the city is a pleasant one for a Malaysia tour and offers a host of things to do during a Malaysia tour. Another major attraction during Malaysia travel in Borneo is climbing Mount Kinabalu which is a rigorous journey ascending thousands of feet. Stunning views of the area can be experienced at the summit. Sarawak, with Kuching as the capital, is the lesser known of the two states yet rivals Sabah's beauty. Networks of intricate rivers, ancient rainforests, stunning beaches and a diversity of indigenous people define the state.

In the province of Kedah, Pulau Paya Marine Park flaunts natural wonders as far as the eye can see. Penang boasts the epitome of island life for a relaxing Malaysia tour among some of the most spectacular beaches in Malaysia. Malaysia spas, beaches, water sports, world class hotels, excellent dining, plenty of outdoor activities and more await on this idyllic slice of paradise.

With a graceful mix of old fishing settlements and Malaysia resorts, Pangkor Island is acclaimed to be one of the best island getaways for Malaysia travel on the western peninsula. The state of Perak is home to Ipoh and is where the Main Range mountains stand in dramatic contrast to the flat plains. The Genting Highlands border Selangor and Pahang. On the southwest side of the country lies Malacca, one of the country’s smallest yet most important states. Rich with history and heritage, it remains a top destination for Malaysia tourism for its numerous museums and fantastic food.

Charming fishing villages, huge national parks and beautiful plantations characterize the state of Johor Bahru which acts as the gateway to Singapore. The central state of Pahang is the largest in the nation and is replete with lush, green rainforest covering two-thirds of the area. The beautiful Cameron Highlands is one of the most popular spots in Pahang next to Taman Negara National Park which is one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world. Terengganu is situated on the east coast where some of the most beautiful, pristine beaches can be found for a tranquil Malaysia vacation experience. North west of Terengganu lies the heart of Malay religion, culture and crafts. At the very northern tip, to the east of Langkawi, lies the tiny yet quaint state of Perli exuding a charm and quaint beauty unlike anywhere else in the country.

Cameron Highlands Malaysia

Nestled in tranquility and surrounded by clouds at over 1800 meters tourists will find the Malaysia resort of Cameron Highlands Malaysia. Named after the discoverer William Cameron who happened upon this stunning hilltop destination, the Cameron Highland area is often called the "Green Bowl" of Malaysia. Beauty blankets this acropolis and also supplies major Malay cities with fresh produce such as tomatoes, green peppers and lettuce. City dwellers flock to the area during Malaysia vacations as it provides a cool retreat away from hectic daily lives and the pollution and noise found in the larger cities.

As you drive up the labyrinthine road toward the three townships beginning your Cameron Highlands Malaysia vacation, blossoming tea plants usher you into the area. The refreshing mountain air is one of the major draws and you will definitely notice the crispness of it, especially when arriving from a muggy city. The highlands offer a kind of serenity not found in the valley or even along the many Malaysia beaches. The area comprises three townships named Tanah Rata, Brinchang and Ringlet.

Much of the Cameron Highland character has maintained its original charm dating back in history to the colonial period. The rose gardens and inns of Brinchang act as a lovely reminder of British colonials while it's active market, serene Buddhist temple and many crafts by local artisans remains a big draw during Malaysia tours.

Making the enjoyable drive up to the hill station is fun in itself as there are lot of great places to stop and take a look around. Take a relaxing break at Kuala Woh Forest Recreation Park where you can soak in the hot springs or enjoy outdoor dining at it finest at the picnic area. The magnificent Cameron Highland Lata Iskandar waterfalls are definitely worth a look as well.

Things to do during your Cameron Highland Malaysia vacation run rampant and you'll never find yourself wondering what to do! Main activities include shopping, dining, sightseeing great Malaysia golf and relaxing of course. Cameron Highlands Malaysia is home to a par 71, 18-hole golf course. This public course offers a unique experience due to its high elevation and great scenery. Strawberry farms and tea plantations are popular places to visit and a great place to meet locals and learn more about their daily lives.

Trekking is a favored pastime in Cameron Highlands Malaysia. Gunung Brinchang, is a great place to take a hike and offer nice views of the surrounding area. In the evening you can Ipoh lit up beautifully in the distance, especially when the sky is clear and the stars are out. Tropical jungle treks are a great way to spend a day. You can visit the Robinson Waterfall and the Parit Waterfall and get some great snapshots during your Cameron Highland Malaysia vacation.

For some more in depth knowledge of the area and the myths and stories surrounding it, chat up some of the locals. They're very friendly and are as anxious to know more about you as you are about them! If planning on visiting Cameron Highlands Malaysia don't expect tons of action. The biggest attraction of this hilltop resort is it's laid-back, small-town feel. Take the pace down a few notches, especially when arriving from a busy city. Immerse yourself in a relaxed rhythm and allow yourself to truly enjoy the sleepy beat of Cameron Highland life.

Sabah Malaysia

The island of Borneo has long been considered an exotic location by many. Being the third largest island in the world, many are intrigued by what it has to offer. Borneo is split into three parts and each section belongs to Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia. Sabah Malaysia is located on the northern tip of Borneo and is considered to be a part of South East Asia. Long known as "The Land Below the Wind" Sabah Malaysia beaches offer some of the most idyllic spots to spend your Malaysia holidays. Bordering its Malaysian neighbor Sarawak, the beautiful town of Kota Kinabalu is the capital.

The biggest lure for tourists visiting the island are the stunning Sabah beaches. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is made of five picturesque islands in Malaysia reached by speedboat in less then a half hour. All have stunning white sand beaches and clear, blue waters fill with a kaleidoscope of color. Malaysia diving and snorkeling is incredible and an underwater world full of exotic marine life can all be seen below the surface. Swimming in the azure waters lends a feeling of being in your own slice of paradise.

Tanjung Aru is an oceanside resort which offers Sabah Malaysia hotels in the form of internationally classed hotels and budget bungalows. Jet skiing, diving, parasailing, snorkeling and other watersports can all be enjoyed on these Sabah Malaysia beaches. Savory Malaysian cuisine is available from the many vendors and hawkers that frequent the beaches. Sabah Malaysia beaches are mostly found on the surrounding islands though there are beaches directly on the coast as well. Many on the coast lie mostly in the western area with most found near Tuaran.

From five star resorts to budget accommodation Sabah Malaysia hotels come in a wide assortment. Opt to stay in the rainforest and sleep amidst the sounds of active wildlife or choose one of the fantastic Kota Kinabalu hotels and enjoy your holiday in the capital. Sabah Malaysia hotels can also be found on almost all of the eight islands such as Sipadan, Layang Layang and Gaya Island which are home to many gorgeous Sabah Malaysia beaches. The coastal areas of Tawau, Lahad, Datu, Sandakan, Tuaran and Labuan all have a range of accommodations available. Once you've chosen the areas you'd most like to frequent, determine your budget needs and search for a hotel.

Many head to the area for fantastic Sabah Malaysia fishing during Malaysia vacations and find the conditions more than satisfactory! Sabah Malaysia fishing is both for fun and for the serious anglers. Sport fishing charters can easily be arranged with many of the most competitive rates found in Kota Kinabalu. The Sabah Malaysia Fishing Tournament kicks off each year in September. This events theme is "Save Our Seas" and advocates against illegal fishing practices.

Sabah Malaysia fishing provides a good chance of catching a well-rounded variety of ocean fish such as Barracudas, Groupers, Mackerel, Snappers, Marlin, Amberjacks, Tuna and more. Sabah Malaysia fishing is only second to deep sea fishing in Langkawi and Penang. Fishing charters in Sabah Malaysia are available for a variety of prices and normally include all tackle and bait, rods and reels and the boat trip. Often a delicious lunch is provided.

Sukau Rainforest is another favorite destination for tourists and is laden with lush, tropical growth and tons of exotic wildlife. You'll spot the active proboscis monkey swinging high in the trees. The rainforest also teems with a diverse range of other wildlife including a variety of birds, an assortment of primate species and lots of reptiles such as cobras and vipers. For more things to do in Sabah Malaysia take a boat trip to Selingan Island and discover a third Marine Park which is home to one of the most important turtle breeding areas in South East Asia. From beaches, to rainforests to sights and sounds on land Sabah is a destination that is sure to top your list of warm destinations ideal for a holiday retreat.

Kota Kinabalu Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu city is in eastern Malaysia and situated on the beautiful island of Borneo. With Tunku Abdul Rahman Park bordering one side and the South China Sea on the other this hotspot on Malaysian Borneo is a favored destination of many. Climbing the famed Mount Kinabalu, the highest in S.E. Asia remains one of the most popular activities and many visit Kota Kinabalu to do just that.

Kota Kinabalu city is the capital of Sabah and rests under the vigilant eye of the kingly Mount Kinabalu. Kota Kinabalu is the portal to Sabah where many numerous dining establishments world class hotels, excellent shopping, busy cafes and plenty of things to do. Animated and colorful this city of 350,000 is a must-see while traveling during Malaysia tours.

During Kota Kinabalu travel make sure to pay a visit to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park which contains five separate and striking islands. Both locals and tourists head over for terrific snorkeling and Malaysia diving which opens the doors to exotic underwater worlds. Great for a myriad of other watersports in the crystal clear waters, the park also boasts quiet spots perfect for kicking back with a book in filtered sunshine. Leaving from the harbor at the northern end of the city ferries take visitors over daily.

Signal Hill Observatory overlooks Kota Kinabalu and provides the most beautiful panoramic of the city proper during Kota Kinabalu travel. The observatory is said to be a marvel in architecture and is Sabah's tallest tower. Dazzling with gold motifs and exalted domes the State Mosque is main place of worship for the Muslim community. Both the Likas Bird Sanctuary and the Likas Mosque are also points of interest during Kota Kinabalu travel.

Exciting shopping opportunities can be found along the main corridor of Kota Kinabalu where everything from local handicrafts to well known brands can be found. Designed to look like the many traditional longhouses still found scattered about the island the State Museum encompasses numerous galleries with a variety if interesting exhibits including old photographs, totem figures, ancient pottery and a collection of human skulls from Sabah's "headhunting" history.

The prospect of climbing Mount Kinabalu is really exciting for many outdoor adventurers. Malaysia tours often provide th climb as an option which many choose. Be prepared for a lot of preparation in order to make your trip safe and fun on the climb up to more than 13,000 feet above sea level. As Benjamin Franklin once said wisely "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." It is suggested that you choose on one of the Kota Kinabalu hotels and acclimate to the altitude for at least three days and two nights. Plan ahead from Kota Kinabalu city as hotels book up really quickly! Kota Kinabalu Park HQ is where you can find your guide and porter if you choose.

On your second night you'll reach Laban Rata and where you will need an advanced reservation for an overnight stay. Restaurants and food vendors are plentiful along the route. Take your own food if you don't want to pay for overpriced meals. The more climbers on you tour means you pay less so try to organize a group of at least three. The fees for climbing Mount Kinabalu include mountain guide fees, park entrance fees, a climbing permit and insurance. Porter fees are extra as are accommodations and meals. The stunning scenery is what most say makes the trek very worth the cost.

Other attractions in Kota Kinabalu include the Atkinson Clock Tower which stands on the bluff toward Signal Hill, the Gaya Street Fair which is one of the events held every Sunday where locals and tourists buy a variety of goods and test out their bargaining abilities, Sabah Museum at Old Palace Hill and the famous Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary. Kota Kinabalu will not disappoint. Intriguing customs and traditions, flavorful cuisine, great shopping, intriguing sights and sounds will keep you captivated from the moment you step on the island to the moment you leave.