Gaya Travel Magazine 14.1

Gaya Travel

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Contents ISSUE 14.1

Cover Illustration by Mohd Nor Adli Ahmad Jaffar

w w w. iss uu. co m /gayatrave l

Departments

014. Editorial Jottings

Gaya Special Feature

016. Malindo Air Announces Flights to Hokkaido 018. Hong Kong Tourism Board Steps Up Initiatives to

attract Muslim Travelers 020. Sarawak, More to Discover in 2019 082. #MylabuanStory

Gaya Traveller

025. Discovering Bustling Busan in 3 days 012

Gaya SPA

034. Banyan Tree Spa KL: The Sophisticated Sanctuary

Gaya Interview

036. Dato’ Haji Zazali Bin Salehudin, Yang Dipertua of

Seremban Municipal Council

Destinations

038. Kuala Lumpur by Traits 042. Discovering West Pahang 044. Fun-filled Cruising Experience with Star Cruises’

SuperStar Gemini 048. 3 Days across Peninsular Malaysia’s Northern Region 052. Riding the Rising Dragon 066. Of sunrise, smallest monkey and other Javanese Beauties

072. Admiring the Majestic Banyuwangi Regency 078. Belitung, The Land of Laskar Pelangi 093. Unmissable West Sumatera, The Land of the Minangkabau

Hotels & Resorts

102. An Effortless Stay at Sunway Velocity Hotel 104. Go Easy on the Pocket, with Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown 106. Discovering Quintessential Kuala Lumpur with

Cosmo Hotel 110. Renaissance Lucknow Hotel: Compendium of Well

Curated Confections in Lucknow 114. Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel: Bastion

of Unexpected Delights 118 Courtyard By Marriott Siem Reap Resort: An

Embodiment of Siem Reap’s Innovativeness 122. Dash Resort Langkawi: Making A Run For The Best

In Hospitality 126. Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur Managed by Banyan

Tree: A Sanctuary for the Senses 128. Lanjut Beach & Golf Resort – An Unexpected

Brilliance in Kuala Rompin

Travel Anecdotes 132. Sizzling Suzai

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Editorial Jottings

Gemini vessel. Those who prefer to remain on dry land can instead explore the not-so-visible aspects yet eye-opening nonetheless like Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur (page 38), the cooler climes of West Pahang (page 42), and the four northern Peninsular Malaysian destinations namely Penang, Alor Setar, Kangar and Langkawi (page 50) at one go. Sunway Velocity (page 102), Pacific Express (page 104), Cosmo Hotel (page 106), and Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur Managed by Banyan Tree (page 126) also prompt travellers to unearth the gems found in the respective neighbourhoods of Cheras, Petaling Street, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, and Bukit Bintang. On the same note, beach and sea lovers should put DASH Resort Langkawi (page 122) and Lanjut Beach Resort (page 128) on their bucket lists.

2019 is said to beset with challenges, from the slowdown of the global economy to the more severe threat of climate change. And come to think of it, the same kind of warning was also put forth beginning 2018, and parts of the world did face difficulties in some form or another.

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However, the challenges faced in 2018 did not dampen people’s desire and willingness to travel. Many try to find ways to meet their demand for new experiences irrespective of the obstacles faced. Families and individuals still view travel and tourism as the chance to escape from the ordinary and a platform to be exposed to new things, constantly searching for ideas on places to go and activities to do that fit their needs and budget. Because of that, media like Gaya Travel Magazine remains relevant because the public continues to seek information on leisure and business travel so that they can make optimal decisions. And in 2019 and beyond, Gaya Travel Magazine intends to continue inspiring readers, like what we have always done, by featuring ideas and articles that readers would find useful and enriching, come what may.

For ideas on where and how to travel in 2019, turn to page 44 to learn about our Star Cruises’ experience on SuperStar

Regarding destinations outside Malaysia, neighbouring Indonesia brims with breathtaking spots such as East Java (page 66), Banyuwangi (page 72), Belitung (page 78) and West Sumatera (page 93). South Korea’s and Japan’s unwavering popularity as highly developed, organised and obsessively clean East Asian destinations are highlighted in this issue through our coverage on bustling Busan in three days (page 25) and discovering Shoryudo region using the efficient JR railway services (page 52), respectively. And being Marriott International ‘junkies’, it is our pleasure to present our take on three of the group’s relatively new properties in Asia: Renaissance Lucknow Hotel (page 110), Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel (page 114), and Courtyard

by Marriott Siem Reap Resort (page 118); each of the mentioned properties are not only great places to stay, but also serve as supernal gateways to the destinations they are based.

May you find this issue enriching. See you in the next issue, and safe travels!

JUHAN KAMARUDDIN@JEREMY KHALIL

Email your comments to jeremy@gayatravel.com.my

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Gaya Special Feature

Malindo Air Announces Flights to Hokkaido Te x t & I m a g e s b y M A LI N D O A I R

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Malindo Air will begin its new service to Hokkaido from 23 March 2019. Booking is now available at a promotional fare of RM799 for Economy Class and RM1,999 for Business Class, on Malindo Air website www.malindoair.com, ticketing offices, customer care centre and its preferred travel agents.

There are 3 flights from Kuala Lumpur weekly, on every Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Flight OD0888 will depart from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at 7:40a.m. and arrived at Taoyuan Airport at 12:30p.m. The flight will continue at 1:45p.m. and arrived in Chitose Airport at 6:20p.m.

Flight OD0889 from Chitose Airport will depart at 7:20p.m. and arrive in Taoyuan Airport at 11:00p.m.

At 12:05a.m. the following day, the flight will continue and arrive in KLIA at 4:55a.m.

Note: All the timing information is in local time A narrow-body Boeing 737-800 aircraft,

comprising of 12 Business Class and 150 Economy Class seats is deployed for the daily flight.

Chandran Rama Muthy, CEO of Malindo Air said, “We are pleased to announce Hokkaido as our first destination in Japan, which marks a new milestone, being the 17th country that we service in our network. Travellers can now travel in comfort on full-service airline at value fare with us.”

“We are anticipating good response to this route and looking at increasing the frequencies in the near future. With this, we are also hoping to bring in more international traffic to Malaysia, in supporting the local tourism and airport arrivals,” he added.

Hokkaido is the second largest island, located at the northernmost of Japan. The cooling weather and unspoiled nature are the main attractions. The city is known for its volcanoes, natural hot springs and ski resorts.

Ho ng Kon g To u r i s m B oa rd St e p s U p In i t i a t i v e s t o a t t r a c t M u s l i m Tr av e l e r s (bo lo bao) and egg tarts. If you are looking to get your halal dim sum fix, look no further than the Islamic Centre Canteen who have a wide range of dim sum dishes such as Siu Mai, Har Gow, Xiao Long Pao, steamed glutinous rice with chicken in lotus leaf and many more.

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Throughout 2018, Hong Kong Tourism Board has been actively marketing to Muslim travellers and introducing new offerings that would appeal to the halal travel market.

To break in the new year, they are taking it up a notch, not only practicing targeted marketing to the Muslim community but also taking steps to educate their stakeholders of the characteristics of a Muslim traveller thus aligning all parties’ understanding of how to better cater to Muslims.

To kickstart this initiative, HKTB recently conducted a Muslim Travel Seminar for Hong Kong businesses and travel partners to understand the needs of a typical Muslim traveller. An estimated 120 participants consisting of Hong Kong stakeholders from various industries and associations such as retail, F&B, shopping malls and attractions gathered to find out more about the Muslim industry with plans to tap into this market.

With spokespersons including Raymond Chan, Regional Director,

Southeast Asia, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Fazal Bahardeen, Founder and CEO of CrescentRating and Halal Trip, and Mufti Muhammad Arshad, Chief Imam of Hong Kong, the seminar delved into the themes of halal certification, characteristics of a Muslim traveller and the market potential of halal travel in Hong Kong.

As part of Hong Kong Tourism Board’s initiatives to engage with the Muslim community, HKTB has been partnering with online Muslim travel platforms to produce content that highlights Hong Kong as a preferred destination for Muslim travel. HKTB has also just launched a Muslim friendly bucket list which features must-visit attractions, Halal eateries and Muslim-friendly facilities in Hong Kong, so that Muslims can make Hong Kong their preferred holiday destination this year.

Halal food options in Hong Kong Visitors can enjoy Hong Kong’s unique culinary culture at any of the halal options which serve halal local delicacies such as pastries at the Chirsly Cafe which is famous for the pineapple bun

Major attractions have improved their Muslim offerings Hong Kong’s main attractions have already stepped up some of their Muslim offerings. Ocean Park, Hong Kong has recently obtained halal certification for one of its restaurants, Café Ocean which offers a variety of Southeast Asian dishes. Besides that, Hong Kong Disneyland already offers various halal food options such as the Main Street Market, Mystic Point’s Explorer’s Club Restaurant, and Tahitian Terrace where you can find a range of cuisines from Korean, Japanese and even Indonesian.

Even some of the hotels at Hong Kong Disneyland provide halal food upon request. Once you have had your fill of halal food, Muslims are able to carry out their prayers at a designated prayer room right next to the Explorer’s Club.

Another local attraction worth taking note of is Ngong Ping, which is famous for their Crystal Cabin Cable Cars as well as the iconic Big Buddha which is a favourite spot for your Instagram photo backgrounds. On top of these, Ngong Ping also boasts its own halal certified restaurant at Ebeneezer’s Kebab and Pizzeria which offers a range of Indian and Middle-Eastern dishes. On top of these, Hong Kong are continuing to further improve Muslim offerings to ensure visitors have more options.

Gaya Special Feature: Sarawak

Sarawak, M o re t o D i s c o ve r i n 2 0 1 9 Te x t b y T O U R I S M M A L A Y S I A I m a g e s b y S A R AWA K T O U R I S M B O A R D

It is the Visit Sarawak Year in 2019 with the campaign promoting “Sarawak, More to Discover,” a tagline that underscores the destination as a plethora of culture, adventure, nature, food and festivals not found anywhere else in the world.

With the campaign rolled out, there’s never been a better time to experience this beautiful and exotic destination that is home to 37 national parks, 14 nature reserves, 5 wildlife sanctuaries, including dozens of attractions and activities, along with a rich history of culture and heritage.

So, what does Sarawak have in store for tourists in 2019?

Here are 5 great reasons to visit Sarawak in 2019:

DISCOVER UNIQUE CULTURES Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, is home to 27 ethnic groups, each with their own dialects, stories, beliefs, traditions and festivals.

You can meet people from the Iban tribe, known for their legendary headhunting customs from days of old. They have long since ceased this practice, of course, but their festivals, art, language and culture remain an integral part of their life even as they assimilate with the modern world.

The Orang Ulu, or ‘people from upriver,’ comprise of various tribes such as the Kayan, Kenyah, Lun Bawang and Kelabit.Their exotic art and music have spread internationally, as seen in the growing popularity of the boat lute or sape. The sape has become the symbol of the Rainforest World Music Festival, an event that has garnered international interest year after year.

Entrenched in Sarawak’s history are the remnants of the reign of the White Rajahs, the Brooke family monarchy that ruled the Kingdom of Sarawak from 1841 to 1946.Traces of this era can be found throughout the state, from physical reminders such as colonial buildings, preserved relics that populate today’s museums, and events such as the Sarawak Regatta, to the more intangible traces within the law and culture of the people.

Sarawak’s ever-expanding world-class museums, authentic hospitality, and a diverse religious and cultural trade, all form part of the cultural attraction.

EXPLORE NEW ADVENTURES Land, water, sky…take your pick of an adrenaline-pumping adventure! On land, there is everything from jungle trekking, mountain climbing to adventure caving and rock climbing.

In the water, you can choose from river activities like scuba diving in Miri and Kuching, water sports, deep sea fishing, jet skiing and yachting.

Looking for some airborne adventure? You can jump from Sarawak’s tallest building…safely. Or you can peer down from the treetops on your canopy walk in Mulu!

Urban explorers can visit Kuching, which has one of the most interesting architecture mixes in Malaysia, with colonial buildings amongst religious, cultural and modern architecture.

Don’t forget to take home the arts and crafts created by local artisans, or better yet, learn how to make them from the local skilled craftspeople.The Orang Ulu are genius at beadwork, while the Iban are deft weavers. Both the Melanau and Bidayuh are associated with basketry making and weaving of hats and artefacts using natural resources like bamboo, palm, rattan and tree bark.

ENJOY DELICIOUS FOOD So much to eat, so little time! Sarawak definitely has a long list of unique culinary offerings, i.e. the delectable “manok pansuh” which is chicken cooked in bamboo; the savoury “Sarawak laksa;” the delicious “kolo mee;” the mouth-watering jungle fern “midin” dish; the herby broth known as “kueh chap;” the rich “manok kacangma” made from motherwort and rice wine; the seasonal “dabai” fruit; the Melanau “umai” delicacy with thin slivers of fish and rich sago pearls, and more

The late Anthony Bourdain had popularised the “laksa Sarawak” as a breakfast option where he referred it as “breakfast of the gods” and had featured the delectable dish in his globally-acclaimed series, “No Reservations” and CNN’s “Parts Unknown.”

The month-long Kuching Food Fair isn’t all about local cuisine. The dazzling array of street food is inspired by cuisines from the world over. It’s a great way to mingle with the locals while sampling some of the best dishes from around the world.The festival typically stretches over the July/August period.

For those interested in learning the art behind the dishes, there are even traditional cooking classes available. You can bring a taste of Sarawak back to your own home.

CELEBRATE VIBRANT FESTIVALS BE ONE WITH NATURE Sarawak has a whopping 56 totally protected areas, 37 gazetted national parks, five wildlife sanctuaries and 14 nature reserves. Its rainforests are the size of Austria.

Sarawak’s rainforests house one of the world’s richest and most diverse ecosystems.

It is home to the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia (that can grow to the size of a coffee table), squirrels and snakes that fly, deer the size of cats, plants that eat insects (and small animals). The orangutan, proboscis monkey, hornbill, the Rajah Brooke butterfly and the silverleaf monkey all call Sarawak home. Experts believe that there are some species of flora and fauna yet to be discovered. Sarawak also has the most number of Important Birding Areas (IBAs) in Malaysia, with a great portion of Borneo’s 650 bird species having been recorded here.

Mulu National Park is a priceless UNESCO World Heritage Site, in a league of its own as it qualifies for all four of the World Heritage criteria. Fewer than twenty World Heritage areas have managed this feat. Meanwhile, Bako National Park traces its first visitors’ footprint to 1957, making it one of Malaysia’s oldest National Parks. Niah National Park is famed for Sarawak’s genesis, with evidence of human presence from 40,000 years ago discovered in the form of Palaeolithic and Neolithic burial sites.

Sarawak is home to the most unique festivals in Malaysia throughout the year, thanks to the diverse demographic found here. From the Gawai harvest festival of thanksgiving, to the Kaul which is celebrated by the Melanau fishing communities to mark the beginning of the fishing season, Sarawak offers a plethora of festivals for tourists to participate in.

The world-renowned three-day Rainforest World Music Festival has been running for 21 consecutive years and continues to attract up to 20,000 festival-goers a year.

The festival sees world music performers come together to perform and host workshops in the heart of a rainforest which has attracted ardent followers worldwide and has been voted among the top 25 festivals in the world by London-based Songline magazine.

Other spectacular festivals include Borneo Jazz, Kuching Waterfront Jazz Festival, Tidal Bore Festival, Borneo Cultural Festival and Sarawak Regatta.

Follow these 3 simple steps to Win an Exclusive 3 Days/2 Nights Vacation!

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Oriental Residence Bangkok www.oriental-residence.com

1. What is the name of the Michelin-starred restaurant at Oriental Residence Bangkok?

2. What are the three benefits that the guests receive when they book for Oriental Plus Privileges at Oriental Residence Bangkok?

3. What are the three attractions close to Oriental Residence Bangkok?

4. I love to stay at Oriental Residence Bangkok because...

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Hilton Kuala Lumpur life.hiltonkl.com

1. What is the name of the shopping centre closest to Hilton Kuala Lumpur?

2. Which of the hotel’s food and beverage outlet serves dry-aged premium meat cuts or fresh seafood?

3. What are the two signature treatments that guests can indulge in at The Spa? 4. I love to stay at Hilton Kuala Lumpur because...

TERMS & CONDITIONS | The reader can only e-mail the answers regarding the hotel of choice in the quiz within the particular issue only once.

Competition is open to all readers who are 18 years old and above. The prize is not transferable and can not be exchanged with cash. Judges’ decision is final.

The best entrant with the best answer will be deemed winner. Closing date of the competition is 30th April 2019.

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Discovering Bustling Busan in 3 days

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Before we continued our Seoul discovery, we wanted to have a free-and–easy time to recharge after our Jeju Island road tripping adventure (refer to Gaya Traveller in Issue 13.4), and Busan seemed like a suitable destination for that. Apart from the ‘Train to Busan’ movie, admittedly we do not know that much about this port city.

Known for its beautiful sandy beaches, mountains and temples, Busan is South Korea’s most populous city after Seoul. That being said, it was hardly a ‘free-and-easy stopover’ like we had originally anticipated because it turns out that Busan is filled with interesting places!

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We took an hour flight from Jeju Island to Busan (Gimhae International Airport).

Alternatively, AirAsia operates five flights to Busan (PUS) from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) every week. It takes just under six hours to get to Busan from Kuala Lumpur.

We opted to stay at an apartment next to Busan Train Station, which was a good decision because it made our commute easy due to its central location. From Busan, we intended to go to Seoul by KTX (Korail Train Express) – hopefully there would be no zombies on board!

We love to revisit Busan and stay longer stay for a truly enjoyable and relaxing holiday.

What We Did in Busan Street Food Hunting at Nampodong Street 027

Korean street food culture is vibrant. It is always a feast for the senses whenever you find yourself walking along a street like Nampodong. Travellers should come here in the evenings as the street is filled with stalls selling Korean street food.

Be sure to try ssiat hotteok, a dessert unique to Busan. It is essentially fried pancake filled with nuts and seeds; the taste is wholesome due to the combination of chewy dough and crunchy seeds.

Nampodong is also Busan’s well known downtown shopping district. There are many shops offering various items at attractive prices, making it a haven for shopaholics.

BIFF (Busan International Film Festival) Square is located on Nampodong Street as well, which serves as the venue for the annual film festival before it is relocated elsewhere. The site is dedicated to the South Korean film industry, and you might be interested

to look down on the pavement while walking to witness plenty of plaques representing the palm prints and signatures of the movie industry’s who’s who.

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Fresh Seafood Ogling at Jagalchi Market Since Busan is located by the sea, one can expect the availability of fresh seafood at the local market. Not too far from Nampodong Street is the multistorey Jagalchi Market that sells various unique sea creatures in aquariums.

There is a food court on the top floor of this market where you can savour the delicious treasures of the sea. You can buy the seafood downstairs and then ask the stalls to cook it for you.

We had our dinner here, which was a wonderful way to end our first night in Busan!

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“Hiking� at Gamcheon Culture Village Please allow at least half a day here so that you can discover this village by walking along its steep streets. This village was built by Korean War refugees back in 1950s on mountain slopes.

Thanks to the initiative in beautifying the village, Gamcheon is now a popular tourist attraction. Amazing what a fresh coat of coloured paint and creativity can do to a place!

Gamcheon Culture Village has many

works of art scattered all over. One of those most sought is the statue of The Little Prince.

There are residents still living at this hillside labyrinthine settlement, and we were awestruck to see grandmothers wearing sneakers going up and down the really steep stairs with much ease.

Do remember to buy a map at the information centre at the village entrance, which costs KRW2,000.

Admission is free.

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“Whale Watching� Songdo Beach Songdo Beach is a man-made beach that was completed back in 1913! It is merely 3 kilometres away from downtown Busan, therefore popular among city dwellers. Songdo Beach has a few interesting attractions to lure the crowd, the main one being the cable car and glass-bottomed walkway. We did not have time to go on the cable car, but we did walk along the walkway.

We find it amusing to walk while looking down to the sea below. Unfortunately, just like the beach, the whale here is manmade. It is a statue, placed right above water, adding a fun element to the whole place!

“Walking on Water” at Oryukdo Skywalk Since we enjoyed our walk along the glass bottom walkway at Songdo Beach, we checked out another similar attraction in Seungdumal called Oryukdo Skywalk.

It took us about one hour from Busan Station using the touristy hop-on hop-off bus to reach Oryukdo Skywalk, and the journey along the way afforded us the views of Busan’s urbanised environment. The bus also traversed the Busan Bridge, which overlooks the Busan Port.

Oryukdo Skywalk is a 15-metre horseshoe-shaped cantilevered viewing platform, set up against a 35-metre coastal cliff. The walk here is more thrilling than the one we had at Songdo Beach since the walk is longer.

Considering the skywalk overlooks Oryukdo Island, the path leading to the bridge is simply breathtaking and serene.

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GETTING AROUND BUSAN » From Gimhae International Airport to city We opted for the Airport Limousine, which is a comfortable bus that took us from the airport to Busan Station. It costs KRW 6,000 per person.

Alternatively, if you do not have that much luggage, a taxi ride would be more convenient. Like Malaysia, the taxis here have NGV tanks mounted in their boots, hence offer limited space.

Around Busan » Busan City Tour Bus If you are like us who were in town for only a short period but wanted to make the most of the time, do go for the Busan City Tour bus. This is a hop-on hop-off bus, similar to those found in other cities all over the world. These buses are convenient because they stop at most places of interest.

Tickets can be bought from the bus driver when you board. The cost is KRW 15,000 per person. » Taxi Since there are four of us travelling together, a short taxi ride would more or less cost the same as getting on the public bus or metro. Though the drivers might understand a fair amount of English, be sure to have the address you are heading to at hand for easier communication. » Public Bus and Metro It is fairly easy to find your way around town using public buses and transit system.

Be sure to get yourself a T-Money (similar to Malaysia’s pre-paid ‘Touch ‘n Go’ card) for convenience. Fares are cheaper if you use T-Money compared to paying with cash.

You may get one at any of the convenience stores, or you may get a complimentary T-Money Card and discount vouchers if you take a survey and register at Korea Tourism Office (KTO) website. Please visit www.visitkorea.com.my for more information, and search “Discover Korea Your Way”.

Gaya Spa

Banyan Tree Spa KL: The Sophisticated Sanctuar y Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K ER I | I m a g e s b y B A N YA N T R E E S PA K L

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On one busy afternoon in the middle of the city centre, I found myself a tranquil oasis tucked away behind the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, in the form of Banyan Tree Spa, located on level 53 of the highly anticipated Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur hotel that promises “sensorial treats ideal for the urban souls” to its patrons. Well, since I wasn’t sure whether I would fall into the urban soul category, one thing for sure: my body was aching, and it would thank me after some pampering ASAP. I made my way from the hotel’s gorgeous lobby to the spa reception area, where I was greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable staff who offered me a refreshing welcome drink and a lovely-scented cold towel, which I learned was soaked in real jasmine flowers. I took time to browse through some of the many enticing treatments available, and realised how easily it was to be overwhelmed by the choices. If you were to find yourself in a similar situation and couldn’t decide whether to treat yourself to a facial or a massage, then I suggest that you go for the treatment that I had called the ‘Sense of Place – Malaysian Bliss’, which is a signature wonderment that combines turmeric honey cleansing scrub, Nusantara (Malay archipelago) massage, a goat milk facial, a scalp massage and a jasmine green tea bath. Yes, told you I was off to a serious pampering session.

Once I decided on the treatment, I filled out a form, followed by a brief consultation with my masseuse, the sweet Nui. She then brought me to my treatment suite, the Kasturi, in which to my surprise is a

delightfully spacious inner sanctum, richly furnished and softly lighted with unobstructed views of the city’s skyline, including the majestic KLCC towers in all their glory. This is easily one of the best spa treatment spaces I have even been to in Klang Valley.

The suite comprises a therapy room with two massage beds, a room with the city view where the foot soak takes place, a natural-lit bathtub room, and private en-suite steam room, toilet, lockers and large rain shower.

Nui suggested that I sit in the steam room for 10 minutes to prep me for the following treatments, in which I gladly obeyed – after just a few minutes in the room, my muscles relaxed and my mind started to slip into a state of respite. She then guided me to a plush massage bed and got to work by starting off with a gentle body scrub on my skin using the fresh in-house blend of ingredients such as turmeric powder, honey, tamarind juice and white sesame seed.

Turmeric is said to be efficacious in bringing out the skin’s natural glow, and the honey scent smelled

amazing too. She allowed the scrub to sink in for a few minutes before instructing me to wash it off in the shower, leaving my skin as about as clean and smooth as it can be.

Next, Nui began applying luxurious oil on me, rubbing with a warm, feather light touch. Her expert hands then carried on to work on my leg muscles and along my spine, with slightly increased pressure when she reached my incredibly tight shoulders and neck. “Ooh hard-working lady, the muscles here are so tight!”, she commented, referring to my upper back that made me smiled on my bed. Well, truthfully, it could be due to two things: being hard-working or spending too much time slouching while binge-watching on Netflix series – but to feed my ego, I went with ‘hard-working’, hah!

I then turned over onto my back, and she repeated the same kneading and thumb pressure techniques again on my front.

My therapeutic journey continued with a facial, whereby Nui began lathering up my face with fresh yogurt. She then scrubbed and exfoliated my face lightly with milk and sugar, leaving my facial skin clean and soft. Honey was then layered onto my exfoliated face, followed by gentle massage. It felt surprisingly refreshing, as I was initially sceptical about how sticky honey might feel on the skin. Nui took the heaven-like feeling a notch further by giving me the ever-so-appreciated scalp massage with coconut oil thereafter.

I must have drifted in my daydream when Nui finally woke me up with a quiet whisper, inviting me to proceed with a therapeutic herbal bath made from green tea and dry jasmine. A serving of Greek yogurt, fresh fruit and a pot of hot lemongrass tea was placed on the side of the glamorous bath tub, all for me to savour while slipping further into the depths of relaxation.

After being enveloped in such blissful experience, to say that I left the spa relaxed would be an understatement – rather, I felt like a brand-new person, boosted with a genuinely renewed confidence and sense of wellbeing that I felt good enough to re-join the outside world make-up free. Perhaps, that’s what a wonderfully genuine pampering experience and self-care would do to you. As such, I must say that Banyan Tree Spa Kuala Lumpur is now inked in my good books; I would absolutely recommend it to my mother and all my friends. It is perfect for those who are hunting for an excellent spa with fantastic facilities and a tasteful atmosphere – definitely fitting for special occasions, or even when you just want to reward yourself.

My relaxing ‘Sense of Place – Malaysian Bliss’ treatment lasts for 150 minutes, and costs MYR795 per person. To make reservation, please visit www.banyantree.com.

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Gaya Interview

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Dato’ Haji Zazali Salehudin Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A KERI

Gaya Travel Magazine team catches up with the newly appointed Yang Dipertua of Seremban Municipal Council, Dato’ Haji Zazali Bin Salehudin, as he illustrates how Seremban is taking steps towards becoming a competitive destination for travellers in Malaysia.

According to the statistics recorded by Negeri Sembilan Executive Councillor for Tourism, Seremban is ranked as the second most visited district in the state, consistently receiving increasing number of tourist arrivals over the past few years. Seremban takes advantage of its strategic location, being close to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and KLIA2, the country’s main gateways. The district is also a popular stopover along the heavily utilised NorthSouth Highway. As such, the State Government has earmarked this district – together with its beach-side neighbour Port Dickson – as the state’s main tourism hub, as part of its effort to lure more visitors.

Several places of worship are located along this road, including the 155-year-old Then Tze Temple, Sri Selva Vinayagar Chettiar Temple, and the Indian Muslim Mosque.

And that’s where Dato’ Haji Zazali comes in. With over 30 years of experience serving the state, he is positive that the goal of developing Seremban into a competitive tourism destination is achievable. He believes that the district’s wealth of historical vestiges, heritage, and traditional customs along with delectable delicacies, could make Seremban an attractive place.

In fact, based on research by Inti University College in 2017, the main factor that drew people into Seremban is its food offerings.

“Industrialisation affects society as a whole. We need to have all relevant stakeholders involved in all stages of tourism development, from planning to implementation. This is why we have come up with the Seremban Strategic Development and Tourism Plan 2018-2023, which encapsulates efforts to enhance the quality of service, improve local infrastructure and increase Seremban’s overall attractiveness in the eyes of visitors and investors,” Dato’ Haji Zazali adds.

“Everybody knows about masak lemak cili padi (strongly spicy yellow curry). But that’s not all; we also have plenty of traditional local flavours that we can offer, for example, itik salai, the recipe that leaves the duck smoked in low temperature for half a day at least.

It is now a hit among visitors. We have people driving in all the way from their home town just to have a meal in Seremban,” shares Dato’ Haji Zazali.

At the same time, his office is currently rehabilitating several historical sites in Seremban by converting them into attractions relevant to this day and age that visitors can enjoy. One example is the Temiang Road, which reflects the harmony of Seremban’s multi-ethnic society that has been in existence for a long time.

Dato’ Haji Zazali also sees tourism as the main driver for local economic development. He explains that tourism and other industries can be cohesively linked to increase the competitiveness of the district’s small and medium enterprises, and this would bring about a healthier environment for the local population as it creates more job opportunities now and the years to come.

Furthermore, Dato’ Haji Zazali’s office also seeks to collaborate with reliable travel agencies to bring more groups of travellers into Seremban. So far, Seremban has steadily been receiving international arrivals especially from China, bound for Johor, including a growing number of Middle East travellers.

In short, Dato’ Haji Zazali plans to make Seremban into a vibrant liveable district that not only draws visitors and investors but also enriches the local population. He hopes that when the time comes, every facet of the district such as services, facilities, infrastructure and product offerings are ready to meet the demands and expectations of both residents and visitors alike, thus turning Seremban into a destination of choice.

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Destinations

Kuala Lumpur

by Traits 038

Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K E R I Images by AMIRUL ADZIM AND RESPECTIVE PRODUCT OWNERS

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is home to a little bit of everything, from awe-inspiring heritage and cuisine to exhilarating treats for friends and family. There seems to be a fair chance that any traveller would find something that they love about KL. We’ve assembled some of the city’s best attractions below – according to your traits – for your touring convenience.

For Heritage Lovers Petaling Street Heritage House (www.facebook.com/petalingstreet.heritagehouse) Do you know that Petaling Street was once a flourishing hub for Chinese entertainment in the city? Neither did we. Before the quarter becomes famous for its cheap retail offerings, and way, way before Youtube becomes a thing, the Cantonese community used to go to many teahouses at Petaling Street to listen to singers performing ballads. Others went to opera houses to watch actors perform engaging plots based on popular Chinese history, classics and myths. 1920s were the peak time of such activities, but sadly, time and technology changed this. Discover more of this intriguing past by visiting the Petaling Street Heritage House, a two-storey pre-War shophouse that aims to revive the musical heritage that once defined the area. Follow along the guided tour to learn about the development of theatre in Petaling Street through welldescribed explanations and exhibits ranging from age-old song lyric books, elaborate costumes, intricate stage and antiques.

There is also a restaurant at the lower ground of the house.

Royal Museum (www.jmm.gov.my/en/visit-royal-museum) Are you always curious on how the modern Malaysian royal palace looks like from the inside? Well, wonder no more because the former National Palace at Jalan Istana is giving the public access to some of the most private chambers and hallways. For over 80 years, the National Palace served as

the official residence of Yang di-Pertuan Agong (Malaysia’s Supreme Head of State or King) until it was closed in November 2011. Take time to explore the palace on your own or with the guide and marvel at the grandeur of each of the space within the palace such as cinema, bedrooms, and even a royal clinic. We personally love the glamourous His and Her Majesty’s bathrooms that exude Great Gatsby vibe, making us inexorably envious. Entrance fee is MYR5 for adults with MyKad (MYR10 for non-myKad holders) and MYR2 for children with MyKid (MYR5 for non-MyKid holders).

Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman (https://badanwarisanmalaysia.org) Between the skyscrapers and other concrete modern buildings of Kuala Lumpur, it can be hard to find any trace of Malay vernacular architecture that once dominated the landscape.

But thanks to the award-winning restoration and conservation initiative by Badan Warisan Malaysia, travellers can find the beautifully-preserved gem sitting at the corner of Jalan Stonor, in the form of a Malay Kedah style structure raised on stilts high above ground. The elaborate woodcarvings and the enormous size reflect the high status of the family, in this case the reputation of Abu Seman as a penghulu (local headman).

The house comprises three parts namely Rumah Ibu, Selang and the Balai that were built in stages respectively. Visitors may roam around the house freely, but access into the building requires a guided tour that takes place twice daily (11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.) except on Sundays.

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Telekom Museum (www.muziumtelekom.com.my) A gorgeous architectural wonder at Jalan Raja Chulan was about to be torn down when it caught Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s attention as he was passing by the road some time in 1985. He then stalled the plan and urged for the building to be conserved as a national heritage instead. Today, it houses the Telekom Museum, specialising in the evolution of telecommunications in Malaysia. Students can also take the chance to experience a ‘Night at the Museum’ through an educational package offered by the museum, which includes activities, meals, sleeping bags and access to KL Tower.

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Jadi Batek Gallery (http://jadibatek.com/index.php/en) A popular handicraft centre selling a wide range of ready-towear batik, this gallery offers the opportunity for visitors to pick up a new skill: batik-painting. The price of the class starts at MYR60 per person, and rather easy and fun to follow: pick a design, choose the colours and then paint. A group of experts will also be around during the class to give guidance.

For Thrill Seekers Laser Battle, Berjaya Times Square (www.laserbattle.com.my) Let’s be honest, paintball is painful; in fact, make a misstep, an unexpected shot at a close range could leave you bruised for days. But don’t let that diminish your inner ‘secret agent’ spirit by going for the next best thing: laser tag game. It is equally fun, challenging and not to mention a lot safer too. Step into the battle ground equipped with combat gear and a high-tech laser gun, where your tactical and aiming skills are put to the test as you go head to head against your opponents to gain points. Entrance fee is MYR45 per person.

Escape Room, Berjaya Times Square (www.escaperoom.com.my/kl) If mystery intrigues you and mind challenges excite you, then head no further than to the Escape Room, where participants will be locked in a room until they find and decode a series of clues to complete the assigned mission and find the key to escape, all while managing the pressure against the clock.

Each game requires two to six participants and varies in

terms of difficulties and themes. We personally tried the ‘The Insidious Art Thief ’ theme, whereby the mission was to steal a priceless painting – and needless to say the whole experience was absolutely nerve-racking yet enjoyable! Entrance fee is MYR32 per person on weekdays, and MYR36 per person on weekends and public holidays.

For Instagram Royalties Museum of Illusions (https://museumofillusions.my/) Hailing from Zagreb, Croatia, the Museum of Illusions boasts over 70 exhibits of mind-blowing optical illusions for visitors’ visual feast. Try your hand at interactive puzzles, use the camera to create trick-eye images, or walk through the dizzying Vortex Tunnel that seems like it constantly rotates when it actually doesn’t. In fact, whatever fascinating exhibits that you stumble upon, each will definitely tease your mind!

The Instagram-worthy illusions also make a photographic dream, so get your camera or smartphone ready and shoot away! Entrance fee is MYR35 for adults with MyKad (MYR45 for non-myKad holders) and MYR25 for children with MyKid (MYR35 for non-MyKid holders).

Mural at Jalan Alor Feast your eyes with vibrant three-dimensional artworks gracing one of the capital’s popular strips, Jalan Alor, where local talents do not only leave signature marks on the city’s canvas, but also paid tribute to the area’s history. There used to be a lush vegetation with a flowing stream in the area in the 1920s, but a lot has changed since then due to progress. In recapturing the area’s sylvan origins, Kuala Lumpur City Hall commissioned a group of young talents to create colourful murals that reflect the olden days, when a waterfall, a river, flora and fauna dominated the landscape.

Lost in ChinaTown (www.lostinchinatownkl.com) Fans of pop culture should not miss the opportunity to pose in front of colourful pop art backdrops made up of 200 iconic celebrities from around the world. Spot your favourite and be moved by their inspiring quotes. Other than that, the gallery also educates visitors on what makes the Malaysian identity,

from local Manglish slangs to the best local food in the country. Entry is free!

Malayan Railways Limited Building With its grand whitewashed façade, distinctive arches and domes, the Malayan Railways Limited Building is one of the most beautiful heritage buildings that one could find in the capital. It features ‘Neo-Moorish/Mughal/Indo-Saracenic/ Neo-Saracenic’ style, conceptualised by Arthur Benison Hubback who was also behind various iconic architectural gems in British Malaya.

For Always-hungry Gourmands Merchant’s Lane (www.facebook.com/merchantslane) Dubbed as one of the best in town, consider yourself lucky if you managed to get a seat less than 10 minutes after arriving.

Merchant’s Lane is always busy, and the well-executed dishes explain why. The baristas and chefs are excellent in bringing out so much flavours and varieties, but in case you need a suggestion, our favourite is the ‘South China Sea’: grilled salmon served with 63°C eggs, salsa and home-made mash.

Ali, Muthu & Ah Hock Kopitiam (www.facebook.com/alimuthuandahhock) If you’re looking for a fuss-free café that delivers quality quintessential Malaysian favourites like nasi lemak, toast, lontong and assam laksa, then look no further than Ali, Muthu & Ah Hock Kopitiam. Their emphasis on quality ingredients in each of their offering results in seductive flavours that ceaselessly satiate the taste buds. We also love the humble yet intimate ambience, reminding us Malaysians of the good-old kopitiams that we used to visit when growing up.

Urban Artisan (www.facebook.com/urbanartisankualalumpur) On a hot sunny day, there’s nothing like a soft-serve to quench the heat. The brand originates from Penang, offering colourful unicorn soft-serves that are light, less sweet and absolutely yummy! There are over 50 inventive flavours available that the owner, Joe, rotates weekly, but the most-beloved hits are Oceanic Sea Salt, lychee, French Valrhona Cocoa and Coal

Black Thai Coconut.

Nasi Lemak Saleha (www.facebook.com/NasiLemakSaleha) We love a hearty and satisfying meal as much as the next person, so nasi lemak would be that one dish that we Malaysians hold dearly. One nasi lemak joint that is known for its consistency is Nasi Lemak Saleha that serves the rice cooked in coconut milk that is always light and fluffy, accompanied by spot-on sambal. However, to us, the star on the plate would definitely be the crispy chicken that is deep fried to perfection and not allowed to remain on the serving counter for more than 10 minutes.

Banana Bro (www.bananabro.com.my) Banana Bro is set to be a strong contender in serving the tastiest banana leaf rice in Klang Valley. The spread includes steamy white or brown rice with rasam (sweet and spicy soup), tairu (fresh yoghurt), papadom (crisp snack made of dried lentil and spices), and four types of curry (chicken, dhal, fish and mung bean) that are rich and full of spices, guaranteed for finger licking goodness. To amp it up a notch, take a pick between spicy dry mutton curry, fried tenggiri (mackerel) or fried boneless chicken - trust us when we say that one single serving will never feel like enough. And oh, the fried bitter gourd is also equally addictive!

Sunway Putra Hotel (https://putra.sunwayhotels.com/dining/coffee-house) The fish head curry at Coffee House, Sunway Putra Hotel, will satisfy any foodie at heart. The curry is fragrant, thick and rich in flavour, while the portion is undeniably generous. The ambient here is pleasant and the service is excellent!

Atmosphere 360 Revolving Restaurant KL Tower (http://atmosphere360.com.my/) The view of KL from above is stunning, but the food spread here is equally glorious. The restaurant’s culinary team comprises some of the country’s finest chefs, so customers may expect nothing but a plethora of scrumptious seasonal spread. The restaurant slowly rotates 282 metres above ground a few times a day, creating a unique dining experience, especially ideal for special occasions.

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Destinations: In Brief

Discovering

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Te x t & I m a g e s b y M U H A M M A D H A S I F M O H D J E L A N I

Being the third largest state in Malaysia, Pahang undoubtedly has a lot to offer. From natural wonders including pristine islands and beaches, lush tropical rainforests and mountains to heavenly cuisines and premier family-entertainment getaways, travellers are bound to be enchanted by this state, located along Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast.

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Together with other members of media, we recently participated in a three-day-two-night familiarisation trip called ‘Discovery West of Pahang 2018’ organised by Tourism Malaysia East Coast Region Office. The trip focussed on three destinations namely Janda Baik, Genting Highlands and Bentong.

JANDA BAIK Tiarasa Escapes (tiarasaescapes.com) A new resort-on-the-block, Tiarasa Escapes was inspired by Malaysia’s famous actress, Puan Sri Tiara Jacquelina. The resort is proud of its ability to ‘redefine glamping’ (glamor camping) in a dreamy, garden-like setting surrounded by pristine tropical vegetation, making it an ideal staycation option among couples and families alike. It has 20 tented and five treetop villas, each exclusively designed with Puan Sri Tiara’s personal touches for guests’ personalised and memorable comfort.

GENTING HIGHLANDS Grand Ion Delemen Genting Highlands (iondelemenhotels.com) This property, which sits at an elevation of 1,740 metres in Genting Highlands, boasts 611 well-appointed rooms, all equipped with contemporary furnishing. Travellers are bound to be captivated by the stunning view of one of the world’s oldest rainforests surrounding the hotel, which can be seen from its guestrooms and signature restaurants like Hugo in the Sky and Kembali Kitchen.

Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm (gentinghighlands.info/strawberry-farm.htm) Since strawberries are synonymous with highland destinations including Genting Highlands, visiting strawberry farms to pluck the fruit and savouring it is a must! Plucking the strawberries, however, is strictly dependent on seasons and the farm’s cultivation process.

More than just a strawberry farm, the familyfriendly Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm also offer many types of flowers, including lavender garden, which are all Instagramworthy.

BENTONG Acacia Retreat (theacacia.my) Not only an accommodation, Acacia Retreat is pretty much a destination best suited for family or friends gathering. It has plenty of room options such as Wood Shelter, Red Brickade, The Simpleton, Bachelor Pad, The Mansion and even Metal Hub, which is a room housed within an unused bus, including

The Smurf with accommodations resembling adorable-looking abodes inspired from the movie of the same name.

Guests can participate in various outdoor activities such as fishing, jungle-trekking, gardening, ATV-riding, and tug-ofwar, besides traditional games like batu Seremban, congkak, gasing (top-spinning) and tinting (hopscotch).

Bentong Gallery (bentong-gallery.com) Also acts as a tourist information centre, this gallery tells the history of Bentong town from its humble beginning as a mining area to this day. It also pays tribute to local prominent figures who developed Bentong in the past such as Loke Yew and showcases the background of Bentong’s cultural and historical heritage. There is also a café and souvenir shop where travellers can buy Bentong-made products, including the signature Bentong ginger.

Where to eat near West Pahang » C’Wok Café Temerloh

(https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Cwok-Cafe/264981353601928)

Famous for Pahang’s most loved dish, ikan patin masak tempoyak (silver catfish cooked in yellow curry with fermented durian), this restaurant owned by Rojemah Husin began its operation since 2006 by selling only three catfish, around three kilograms in total.

Now, the restaurant could take order up to as much as 60 kilograms per day during school holidays.

Other dishes worth trying are daging salai (smoked meat), ayam kampung (fried chicken), lampam goreng (fried tinfoil barb fish) and ulam (traditional salads).

Gaya Travel Magazine expresses our heartfelt gratitude to Tourism Malaysia East Region Office for making the writer’s trip to West Pahang possible. For more information about travel packages to West Pahang, please visit https:// www.tourism.gov.my/.

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Destinations

F u n - f i l l e d C r u i s i n g w i t h

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Star Cruises’ SuperStar Gemini Te x t & I m a g e s b y J U H A N K A M A R U D D I N

SuperStar Gemini – one of the popular cruise ships by Star Cruises (www.starcruises.com) – takes up residency at Port Klang from 5 November 2018 until 1 May 2019. With SuperStar Gemini homeport deployment at Port Klang, including having Penang and Langkawi as port-of-calls, Star Cruises remain committed in positioning Malaysia as a cruise hub for the region.

SuperStar Gemini offers a variation of three-night itineraries that include Phuket in Thailand, with the additional options of embarking in Penang and Langkawi. Passengers can now choose to depart from any of these well-connected travel hubs to discover a variety of popular round-trip itineraries such as the four-day and three-night Phuket and Langkawi cruise or four-day and three-night Phuket and Penang cruise, including special cruises like the five-day and four-night Phuket, Krabi and Penang cruise that departs on 6 February 2019, and the three-day and two-night Singapore cruise departing on 10 February 2019. Alternatively, passengers can savour the four-day and three-night round-trip cruise itinerary to Port Klang and Phuket from Penang available on selected departure dates. Passengers who begin their cruise on SuperStar Gemini at Port Klang need to do so at Boustead Cruise Centre.

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Top from Left: Families enjoying their time at Topsiders pool on deck 11 of SuperStar Gemini; Bella Vista restaurant on deck 9 of SuperStar Gemini. Middle from Left: Fried noodles, a popular Penang delicacy; Big Buddha of Phuket; Early morning cappucino at Blue Lagoon restaurant on deck 11 of SuperStar Gemini. Bottom from Left: The view of George Town from The Top Penang on level 68 of KOMTAR Tower; Children having a good time at the pool next to Oceana Barbecue on deck 12 of SuperStar Gemini.

According to Genting Cruise Lines’ Senior Vice President for International Sales Mr. Michael Goh, the Malaysian cruise industry is growing. Over the years, Genting Cruise Lines sees increasing demand from the Malaysian and Singaporean markets, including mainland China and India.

Since cruising is hassle-free, this form of vacationing is recommended for families, couples and groups of friends to holiday in one comfortable vicinity and strengthen bonds with each other throughout the trip. Cruising can also be treated as part of meetings, incentives, conferences and expositions (MICE) tourism because corporations can organise incentive trips on cruise ships to reward their employees or as retreat for their management teams.

Hotel on the sea

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SuperStar Gemini – at 50,764 gross registered tonnage – is 230 metres long and 29 metres wide with average cruising speed of 18 knots. Backed up by experienced and well-trained crew, this 25-year old 13-storey ship is remarkably well maintained with 765 cabins and 1,530 lower berths. Though passengers new to the ship might feel like being in a maze at first, passengers would eventually get their bearings right on the second day of the cruise. It would be fun for passengers to spend time on board exploring all of the ship’s accessible sections, nooks and crannies. That said, passengers need to remain safe and follow the crew’s instructions at all times.

SuperStar Gemini serves up a wide selection of awardwinning Asian and international cuisines through its 11 restaurants and bars. Four of those restaurants are classified as inclusive (which means that food and beverages served are complimentary since they have already been priced in the cruise fare): western semi buffet at Bella Vista, and international spread at Mariners, both on deck 9; Oceana Barbecue on deck 12 and Chinese non-halal dining at Dynasty on deck 11. On the same note, there are many corners where passengers could just lounge and order beverages of choice while listening to live music such as the IR Lounge on deck 10. Passengers could sing their hearts out at the Observatory Lounge cum karaoke lounge on deck 12.

The ship’s Main Galley (where the food is prepared) is manned by 81 chefs and cooks who provide 24-hour catering service for the passengers and the ship’s 700 crew members.

At every mealtime, the Main Galley team prepares various specialties for up to 1,200 persons who dine at all four different inclusive restaurants. All food served at the inclusive restaurants, except for Dynasty, are sourced from halalcertified food suppliers.

Extensive gastronomic choices aside, SuperStar Gemini

offers onboard leisure activities such as spectacular shows, live revues, relaxing spa, beauty salon, and duty-free shopping, all part of Star Cruises’ promise to deliver signature, heartfelt Asian hospitality. On top of the exciting family-friendly performances and movie screenings held at the Stardust Lounge that can accommodate up to more than one thousand spectators on deck 10, there are more entertainment and shopping outlets await on decks 9 and 11. The ship has children day care centre too on deck 11 where parents could leave their children for a few hours at an additional fee.

SuperStar Gemini has two pools, one located on deck 9 outside Bella Vista and another one on deck 11 on the same level as Topsiders bar and the 24-hour Blue Lagoon (noninclusive) dining outlet. Those who wish to sweat it out and keep their fitness level up could jog along the designated track on deck 7. Alternatively, they can head to the well-quipped fitness centre on deck 12 that is open from 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m., adjacent to the spa called King Neptune Health Club.

Tip: If you suffer from motion sickness, best to bring along motion sickness pills. Normally, the larger the ship, the more stable it becomes.

The sleeping experience on SuperStar Gemini is like being in a cradle because the ship gently rocks side to side as it traverses the waters of the Straits of Malacca. The cabin (also called stateroom) is similar to what you expect from a normal hotel room but in a more compact scale. For better cruising experience, it is recommended that passengers opt for the Oceanview Staterooms on the upper decks with larger windows located to avoid feeling claustrophobic.

I truly recommend that passengers, especially early risers like me, to wake up early morning and go for a walk (if weather permits) around the top-most deck of Star Cruises’ SuperStar Gemini while waiting for the inclusive restaurants to open for breakfast to take in the revitalising sunrise, the sky, the sea breeze and early morning atmosphere.

Exploring Phuket As passengers arrive at Phuket, they need to realise that there is no pier right on the shore for the cruise ship to berth, so the ship drops anchor at Patong Bay and passengers are ferried to the beach using tenders (smaller boats).

Once arrived in Phuket, since they would then might have around five hours at the destination, passengers should quickly go for the excursions they have booked earlier via the Shore Excursion counter on deck 7, next to the reception.

Alternatively, passengers who do not opt for any excursion can frolic along Patong beach on foot and check out its eateries, cafes, bars or outlets, including the vibrant Jungceylon (http:// www.jungceylon.com/) shopping mall.

One unique excursion that passengers can opt for is the marble-cladded 45-metre tall white statue of Big Buddha meditating in cross-legged position with serene facial expression and eyes lowered as if gazing down at visitors, located about an hour’s drive from Patong. Since the statue perches on a hill that overlooks Chalong harbour, visitors can witness the green undulating surroundings and sunset on a clear day.

inducing cantilevered and uncovered U-shaped glassbottomed observation bridge called Rainbow Skywalk on level 68. The excursion to The Top Penang can be arranged by SuperStar Gemini’s Shore Excursion counter.

Those who are more adventurous can test their mettle by playing the obstacle course called Gravityz (https://www. thegravityz.com/) that includes flying fox and bridge-crossing without handrails 239 metres above ground, located right on the ledge outside level 65. Remember: this activity is only for those who are 18 and above, not less than 100 centrimetres tall, not weighing more than 100 kilograms, have no heartrelated diseases or high blood pressure or pregnant.

Another interesting place to visit is the Si Supalak Orchid cashew nut factory to witness how cashew nuts are prepared.

Visitors are bound to be bowled over by the multitude of crunchy and lip-smacking packed cashew nuts laden in diverse flavours – among the best sellers are honey and wasabi. This is the best place for passengers to stock up on snacks as souvenirs to bring back home. However, passengers need to be aware that getting to the factory takes around one hour to get there from Patong beach.

Exploring Penang In Penang, the ship docks close to the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage core area (http://www.gtwhi.com. my/), Penang Town Hall and Fort Cornwallis. Passengers should saunter down Beach Street, Acheh Street, Armenian Street, Campbell Street, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling and Light Street, among others, to take in their charmingly wistful atmosphere and quaint pre-war structures. Culminate the walk at Padang Kota Lama Food Court or the popular eatery Hameed Pata Mee Sotong to sample lip-smacking Penang street delicacies like pasembur (a local snack consisting shredded cucumber, potatoes, beancurd, turnip, beansprouts, prawn fritters with other seafood served with a sweet and spicy nut sauce) , coconut shake and the Malaysian dessert called ais kacang (shaved ice laden with sweetened beans, palm sugar, evaporated or condensed milk, syrup, green rice-flour jelly called cendol and creamed corn, including nipa palm attap seeds, topped with vanilla ice cream) located 15 minutes’ walk away from Pier Swettenham.

Passengers who prefer a more contemporary experience should head to the island’s largest indoor themepark called The Top Penang (https://thetop.com.my/), housed within the iconic Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR) Tower that was completed in 1986. Upon reaching the tower’s observatory deck on level 65, they should take selfies while standing or sitting (or even lying) on the deck’s glassbottomed ledge. Then, they can bring their ‘walking-on-air’ experience a notch higher by walking along the vertigo-

Reminders when cruising: • Each passenger is issued an access card that bears their full name as per their identification document or passport and cabin number – it is important for passengers to always hold onto their access cards because they are not only used to enter the cabins but also serve as boarding permits and charge cards when ordering food and beverages, including purchases at the duty-free outlets. Passengers need to fully settle all outstanding bills at the reception area on deck 7 before disembarking the ship at the end of the cruise.

• Remember to switch off the roaming and data service on your mobile device to avoid unnecessary charges because the device might pick up foreign telecommunication signals when cruising since the waters are close to Indonesian and Thai territories.

• Upon reaching Phuket, Penang or Langkawi, passengers need to understand that it takes time for them to disembark from the ship, thus patience is required, especially in Phuket because passengers need to be transferred onto tenders to reach Patong Beach.

• A late re-boarding charge of MYR400 would be levied on each passenger who returns late to the cruise ship after the shore excursion or visit. Passengers must take note of the latest time they need to be back at the cruise ship to avoid unnecessary charges and hassle.

Find out more about Star Cruises’ SuperStar Gemini at https:// www.starcruises.com/my/en/ships/gemini

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Destinations

3 Days across

Peninsular Malaysia’s Northern Region Te x t & I m a g e s b y S H A H I DA S A KERI

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Always wondering on how to spend your long weekends? Don’t worry, we got you covered. Read on to find out how you can spend three days in the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia, while ticking off the must-visits along the way.

DAY 1 - PENANG Penang is, arguably, the most popular destination in the north. It is home to one of Malaysia’s UNESCO world heritage sites and is famous for its gastronomic offerings.

Touring with Link Bike (www.gayatravel.com.my) Grab a set of wheels and explore the city with a bike sharing system (BSS) offered by Link Bike, which allows travellers to pick up or drop a bike at any of the 25 stations across the city. The sharing system is easy to be used and extremely cheap too; the pass costs merely MRY2 per person for a day. All interested travellers need to do is to download the app, register and then use the QR code to release the bicycle from the station. Cycling makes your exploration speedier and more convenient, and you could even follow the popular Penang Heritage

Trail, which includes a long list of heritage sites such as the magnificent Boon San Tong Khoo Kongsi and the century old Chew Jetty.

Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm (www.entopia.com) Lose yourself in an urban sanctuary filled with beautiful butterflies, that flutter freely in a well-manicured indoor garden complete with artificial caves and waterfalls. The farm comprises two sections, the first being ‘Natureland’, a shared ecological space where visitors get to get close to more than 15,000 species of butterflies and common garden residents. The second section, ‘Cocoon’, is a stateof-the-art indoor facility where visitors get to learn about the invertebrates through various engaging edu-stations.

The Top at KOMTAR (thetop.com.my) Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR) has been one of Penang’s major landmarks since its inception in 1985. In 2015, a revitalisation plan gave the building a facelift and added three more storeys on top of it, making it the 10th tallest building in Malaysia.

It now houses various offerings ranging from shopping, wellness, dining and amusement parks fit for visitors of all ages. The open-air Rainbow Skywalk on Level 68 is the highest glass skywalk in Malaysia that boasts unobstructed views of the city. For all Will Sawyers out there, experience the world’s highest rope course at The Gravityz, where visitors take part in a series of obstacle challenges at the exterior of the skyscraper 65 floors from the ground!

Nasi Kandar Hameediyah Restaurant A trip to Penang without trying nasi kandar would be the ultimate letdown to your gastronomic experience.

This dish is synonymous with the state that plenty outlets have been mushrooming around the city and its outskirts. For authentic flavours endorsed by the locals, do eat at Hameediyah Restaurant, located on Campbell Street, which also happens to be the oldest nasi kandar restaurant in Penang. The menu is extensive, the portion is generous, and prices are generally reasonable. Kick the whole dining experience up a notch by ordering murtabak, a decadent fluffy meaty pancake that goes absolutely perfect with hot ginger milk tea – oh so heavenly!

Kedai Mamu Roti Canai Terbang Feast your tummy as well as eyes at this restaurant, where patrons are treated to delicious light and fluffy roti canai together with fascinating ‘flying roti’ demonstration as the staff prepares the said dish, from kneading, rolling, flipping to folding the dough – instead of flipping the dough like usual, two employees take turn to flip and pass

between each other, making the whole process spectacular to see.

Vouk Hotel Suites Penang (www.voukhotelsuites.com.my) Modern and comfortable, this hotel takes advantage of its prime location in the heart of George Town where plenty of tourist attractions are merely short walk away. All 231 rooms are spacious, and equipped with the necessary amenities that one expected from a 4-star hotel. Those who prefer airconditioned spaces can take the hotel’s complimentary shuttle bus to Gurney Plaza and M Mall.

DAY 2 - KEDAH Apart from being a convenient stopover between Penang and Langkawi, Kedah abounds with old-world charm, particularly Malay legacies, which grant visitors a more laidback experience far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

Zahir Mosque A major landmark in the state, the mosque has been around for over a century and is dubbed as one of the most beautiful mosques in Malaysia.

This magnificent beauty was designed by the then state engineer, James Gorman, who drew inspiration from Azizi Mosque in North Sumatera. It boasts five striking black domes and magnificent Moorish-inspired facade.

Today, the mosque is still used by the public, and the ‘State Quran Recitation’ programme is held here every year.

Balai Besar (Great Hall) This state heritage asset that is replete with traditional Malay craftmanship was built in 1735 by the founder of Alor Setar (the state’s capital), Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Abidin. The building experienced multiple damages due to enemy invasions over the years, yet it survived until now and designated as the venue for state coronation. There is also a royal gallery that displays the history and heritage of the Kedah Sultanate.

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Pekan Rabu Started as a weekly open-air market since 1920s that only opened on Wednesdays, Pekan Rabu or ‘Wednesday Market’ was the brainchild of the late Tunku Yaacob Almarhum Sultan Abdul Hamid, who wanted to encourage more Malays to take part in commerce. In fact, Malaysia’s fourth and seventh Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir was one of the merchants that used to trade here when his studies were disrupted due to the Japanese Occupation. Over the years, the market has expanded into a multi-storey complex and now opens from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily, offering visitors a wide range of traditional delicacies such as bahulu and pekasam, handicrafts and apparel like ‘Tun’s songkok style’, made popular by none other than Tun Mahathir.

Tun Mahathir Mural Paying homage to the birthplace of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad with the support of the state government, a

group of local artists namely Mustakim Ismail, Abdul Qoyyum Mohd Nadzri and Mohd Zulfadli Ahmad Nawawi created an eye-catching 30.48-metre wide mural of Malaysia’s ‘Father of Modernisation’ along Jalan Pekan Melayu. Along with his portrait, these young artistes also depicted Petronas Twin Towers and Malaysia’s first car called Proton Saga onto the mural, both being Tun’s brainchild. The mural was created based on true life images by Malaysiakini photographer, Lim Huey Teng, and took a month to complete.

Grand Alora Hotel (www.grandalorahotel.com) The hotel sits right smack in the centre of the city, offering quick access to multiple points of interest. There are 235 comfortable rooms, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and the popular Dao Sheng Chinese Restaurant that offers halal-certified Cantonese and Szechuan cuisines.

Day 2 - PERLIS Perlis is meant for those who enjoy roads less travelled, complete with picturesque sceneries, endless serenity and way fewer crowds.

Perlis Herb Garden (www.perlis.gov.my/forestry) Functioning as an open-air ‘herb museum’, the garden features over 1,000 species of herbs and spices such as mengkudu, tongkat ali, cekor and selasih across its vast land. Most species are grown in the wild (in-situ) and some even brought from other countries to diversify the types of herbaceous plants grown for potential future benefits. Besides touring the garden, visitors can also have their feet massaged and soaked in herbal foot bath for MYR30 per person. For those preferring little more adventurous experience, there are also wild cycling tracks that travellers can traverse at the price of RM150 per person. The garden opens every day except Mondays.

DAY 3 - LANGKAWI With beautiful stretches of white sand

and crystal-clear waters, Langkawi is a renowned tropical paradise, ideal destination for memorable outdoor activities.

Kilim Geoforest Park Listed as UNESCO’s geopark since 2017, the first in Southeast Asia, this is one of the three geoforest parks located within the Langkawi archipelago – the other two being the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park and the Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park. Expect to see pristine mangrove and limestone forests, including dramatic karstic landscapes formed hundreds of million years ago. The best way to explore the park is by taking a day tour that costs MYR250-MYR300 per boat, bringing travellers along the mangrove’s river system with few stops along the way such as the Bat Cave and the Crocodile Cave. On top of these, travellers can also witness majestic eagles swooping down to catch food at one point along the cruise!

Panorama Langkawi (www.panoramalangkawi.com) By taking the casual ride on a cable car called SkyCab up to the peak of Langkawi’s second highest mountain in Langkawi named Mount Machinchang, enjoying the experience of being on a mountaintop while taking in the breath-taking surrounding scenery has never been easier. Travellers can alight at the Top Station too and walk along SkyBridge, the world’s longest curve suspension bridge. But if riding cable car sounds too easy, test your stamina by trekking along the SkyTrail between the Middle Station and the Top Station to admire the wondrous Mt. Machinchang forest reserve.

The Seashells @ Laman Padi Try traditional dining amidst verdant paddy fields, which are synonymous to Kedah. A fusion of Malay and Western delicacies are served here; highlights include nasi kukus ikan siakap (steamed rice with fried sea bass) and nasi kukus itik (steamed rice with fried duck) that

go well with ulam-ulaman (raw salad).

There is also paddy museum and herb garden within the premises should travellers decide to walk around before or after their meals.

The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa (www.frangipanilangkawi.com) With sustainability at it its core, The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa offers more than just a secluded sanctuary for wary souls. Guests may join in the award-winning Eco-Walk at the resort, where they can learn about various green initiatives such as waste management and energy conservation.

Indonesia–Malaysia–Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) Initiative Gaya Travel Magazine’s trip to the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia was in conjunction with the IMT-GT Tourism Forum, hosted by Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

The forum was attended by more than 170 participants ranging from officials and industry players from Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. This initiative was first established in 1993, as part of the involved governments’ effort to accelerate economic and social transformation in less developed provinces in these three member countries.

To reach such goal, the Malaysian government, which chairs this initiative from 2017 until 2019, has developed the ‘IMT-GT Tourism Packages’ offering unique tourism experiences in the sub-region along the themes of culture, eco-adventure, heritage and gastronomy. The information on these packages will then be distributed through various marketing channels, including IMT-GT and ASEAN websites and social media platforms.

Gaya Travel Magazine would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia and Penang Global Tourism for hosting and making our trip smooth.

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Destinations

Riding the

Rising Dragon Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A KERI Images by SHAHIDA SAKERI AND RESPECTIVE PRODUCT OWNERS

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When I first heard that I would head to the Shoryudo region in Japan, the first thing that I did was to text my friend who lives in that country and bombarded her with a long list of questions. What are the highlights there? I knew I needed some trusted insights to discover what do the locals love, and you know, just to avoid missing out on great things that the region could offer (#fomo). Her reply was rather simple: “food, plenty of lip-smacking food than your tummy can handle.”

Oh girl, say no more.

I was already sold on the idea of losing myself behind a mountain of delicious seasonal delicacies, but after several more text-exchanges, I learned that Shoryudo (meaning ‘Rising Dragon Region’ in Japanese due to its shape on the map, also simply known as Central Japan), has a lot more to offer. For one, the region is home to exceptional historical and sacred sites in the country, and second, the dense ancient forests along other spectacular natural beauties make for gorgeous views to behold. And on top of these, the entire region is remarkably accessible.

In fact, to make exploring easy, there are multiple travel passes that visitors can make use depending on budget, focus areas and length of stay. One such example is the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass

by JR-Central and JR-West, which I eventually used for my trip in Shoryudo. The price of the pass starts from ¥14,000 per person for five consecutive days, and brings travellers across the region with unlimited rides on JR trains, buses and Hokuriku Shinkansen along the way. Besides, as pass holder, I took advantage of booking reserved seats on JR limited express trains for free up to four times, which proved not only economical but also convenient to secure seats during peak time. Read on to find out how I maximised my pass to experience Central Japan in five days (all train and bus rides throughout this trip are covered by the Takayama-Hokuriku Pass, unless stated otherwise).

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A beautiful Geisha strolling along the old street.

(Photo by Tianshu Liu on Unsplash)

Important points regarding TakayamaHokuriku Area Tourist Pass: » This pass is only

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for foreign visitors from abroad under the ‘Temporary Visitor’ entry status. » It covers four main prefectures: Gifu, Toyama, Ishikawa and Fukui. It also connects travellers between two international getaways: Chubu Centrair International Airport and Kansai International Airport. » Book the pass online or with locally certified travel agents prior to your trip to enjoy more savings.

The 5-day pass costs ¥14,000 per adult and ¥7,000 per child when you buy in advance; otherwise, walk-in prices cost ¥15,000 per adult and ¥7,500 per child at certain designated stations along the route. » Pass holder may reserve seats on the Limited Express ‘Wide View Hida’, Limited Express ‘Thunderbird’ and Limited Express ‘Shirasagi’. Reserved seats on the ‘Haruka Airport Express’ and the Hokuriku Shinkansen line (Kagayaki, Hakutaka, Tsurugi), however, require additional fees. » For more information on this pass, visit http:// touristpass.jp

Top to bottom: the route covered by the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass; Gifu Station. Next page picture: the colourful light show at Flight of Dreams.

AICHI PREFECTURE Chubu Centrair International Airport, Tokoname My entry point to the country this time was via Centrair (Central Japan International Airport), located on an artificial island in Ise Bay, south of Nagoya city. The airport has recently won ‘The World’s Best Regional Airport’ Award and ranked as the seventh best airport in the world in 2018 by Skytrax. Hence, travellers can expect excellent service and top-notch facilities when flying from/to here.

I personally experienced a smooth immigration procedure, including fast baggage claim, during arrival. But what I loved most about the airport is the fact that it is human-scale, and perfectly designed in a way that save travellers’ time and energy. And, if weather permits, head outside to an outdoor observation deck for sweeping views of the action on the runways.

Food options here are abundant, including halal meals, and travellers can even savour Nagoya’s signature dish, hitsumabushi (grilled eel on top of rice) without leaving the airport

at Maruya Honten Restaurant. The airport also functions as the hub of transportation, linking travellers to other parts of the region via trains, buses and high-speed boats. Other facilities include tourist information centre, laundry service counter, prayer room, and Sky Town Shopping Centre featuring western and traditional Japanese themes. Interestingly, the airport is also known as Ninja Airport because Chubu, particularly Mie Prefecture, is popular as the birthplace of ninja. Don’t be surprised if you spot a couple of ninjas at the airport!

Note: There are no direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Chubu Centrair International Airport; to get there, travellers instead need to fly via Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Singapore, Manila, Cebu, Hong Kong or Taipei.

Flight of Dreams, Tokoname The city of Nagoya is highly-claimed as the country’s most sophisticated manufacturing base for aerospace

industry, producing over 50% of aircraft components, including the wings of Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Therefore, it is only natural that a complex fully dedicated to aviation is built close to the city. Aviation enthusiasts should visit ‘Flight of Dreams’ and enjoy nine hands-on features, including flight simulator and DIY airplane design session while taking a glimpse of the Everett Factory, which happens to be one of the biggest aircraft assembly factories in the world. Be sure that you also witness the spectacular light show comprising the projection of beautiful images onto the huge ZA001 – the first 787 test model donated by Boeing – sitting proudly at the centre of the premises. If you’re hungry, head straight to Seattle Terrace that boasts popular outlets originated from Seattle such as Starbucks, while at the same time paying tribute to Boeing’s birthplace.

The admission fees to the airplane and aviation exhibits are ¥1,200 for adults and ¥800 for children.

Access: This complex is connected to the Chubu Centrair International Airport via travelators.

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Tip: To start using the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass, travellers need to take the Centrair airport train on Meitetsu Line to get to the nearest station connected to the JR lines. You can head up to Meitetsu Kanayama Station on the Limited Express “μ-SKY” train by paying the additional ¥1,170 on a single trip. From there, your pass is valid to any desired destination as long as it is covered in the route and connected

by JR lines. Having said these, however, most pass holders prefer making Gifu as their first stopover.

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GIFU PREFECTURE Gifu Castle, Gifu First built in 1201, the castle changed hand from one powerful feudal lord to another up until the 17th century. Though it was severely damaged by fire in 1943, the castle was later reconstructed and converted into a historical museum featuring an observation platform that boasts spectacular view of the nearby Nagara River. Fit travellers could opt to hike along the four available trails for about one hour and a half to reach the top of Mount Kinka where the castle is located – those who gasp at the word ‘hike’ can instead embark on cable cars from the foot of the mountain up to the castle in merely three minutes.

Access: Take a bus with the sign “N” that heads to Nagara Bridge from the Gifu Station and stop at Gifu Koen Rekishi Hakubutsukan-mae bus stop at the foot of Mount Kinka. Taxi is also available at the station.

Kawaramachi, Gifu Stroll along this beautiful quiet neighbourhood brimming with age-old craft shops, including traditional Japanese restaurants and cafes selling local pastries and delicacies like the ayu fish (river fish) products. Ayu fish is particularly popular here due to the long-standing practice of ukai (cormorant) fishing that originated over 1,300 years ago. In this tradition, usho fishermen would play with the light from the torches in the dark of the night to draw the fish closer to the boat and catch them using trained cormorants. It is amazing to witness this method of fishing and Nagara River is one of the only two places in Japan where you can see such practice. Nagara River Ukai Fishing festival is held from 11 May until 15 October every year.

Access: Take a bus with the sign “N” that heads to Nagara Bridge from the Gifu Station and stop at the Nagarabashi bus stop.

The street is only five minutes’ walk from the foot of Mount Kinka. Taxi is also available at the station.

Gifu Station -> Takayama Station (two hours and ten minutes for The Limited Express Hida, two hours and forty minutes for local JR train)

Shirakawa-go, Ogimachi Shirakawa-go (ml.shirakawa-go.org/en/) in winter to me is likened to the feel-good movies I love to watch during holidays.

It is romantic and sparks joy the moment I stepped into the villages. The area’s mountainous landscapes are gorgeous and in January, when snowfall is the heaviest, the villages turn into fairy-tale land blanketed in white, creating postcardperfect view that travellers around the world come to see. The area is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it features unique farmhouses with thatched and steep roofs called Gassho-Zukuri that has been in existence since the 11th century. Besides multiple viewing points, there is also a museum on site for visitors to learn more about the area’s history.

Access: Take the Nouhi Bus from Takayama Bus Centre to Shirakawa-go bus stop. Also, travellers may go straight to Takaoka from Shirakawa-go bus stop on the Kaetsunou Bus. It is advisable to book seats in advance because both buses tend to get full during peak season.

Sanmachi, Takayama Dubbed as ‘Little Kyoto’, Sanmachi (www. hida.jp/english) is an old merchant town filled with attractive gems minus the dizzying crowd. Expect to see line after line of traditional black wooden townhouses made of the finest cypress and cedar with latticed doors and windows still firmly intact, while incense aroma fills up the street; it’s easy to lose yourself in time here and get carried away with the glorious Edo period charm. You should seek exquisite folk crafts such as woodblock printing tools, which the area is famous for, or if you’re feeling hungry, grab a bite of various confections sold in the shops, including daifuku (glutinous rice cake stuffed with sweet filling). Cultural buffs would also enjoy the Fujii Folk Art Gallery and the Hida Folk Museum located within the area.

The operational hours typically start from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Access: 10-minute walk from Takayama station.

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Top to bottom: The view of Ogimachi village at Shirakawa-go (Photo by Sam Lee on Unsplash); an example of the beautifully-preserved old house at Sanmachi Street, Takayama.

Clockwise from top left: The stunning view of the Northern Alps from the outdoor bath at Hotel Associa Takayama Resort; the juicy grilled Hida beef at Suzuya Restaurant; the cute red Sarubobo dolls symbolising luck in marriage, fertility and childbirth; the retro packaging of the medicines sold at Ikedaya Yasubei Shoten.

Sarubobo Doll Workshop, Takayama Back in the days when The Transformers toys were not yet a hit, Sarubobo doll was the toy that grandmothers used to make and present to their grandchildren as gift. It traditionally functioned as an amulet to protect children from bad things happening in their lives. The original colour of the doll is red, symbolising luck in marriage, fertility and childbirth. But as time progresses, more and more colours are available such as blue for career; pink for love; green for good health; and yellow for money. So why not continue the tradition and give the doll as a souvenir to someone you love back home? For personal touch, make it yourself at the workshop in the city. The fee starts at ¥1,300 per person.

Access: 10-minute walk from Takayama station.

EAT Hoba Miso cuisine and Hida Beef Trying out the famous Hida beef when in Takayama is a must, as this particular wagyu beef is considered as one of the very best in Japan for its exceptional marbling, especially after it won the 2002 Wagyu Olympics (yes, it does exist).

The meat is tender and juicy, best grilled on a slow charcoal fire on top of fragrant magnolia leaf (hoba in Japanese) with shiitake mushrooms and perfectly seasoned miso gravy. For Muslim-friendly options, Suzuya Restaurant (suzuyatakayama.ec-net.jp) led by the friendly Chef Teppei serves halal-certified beef in his menu.

Access: 10-15 minutes’ walk from Takayama station.

STAY at Hotel Associa Takayama Resort, Takayama What better way to spend crisp, chilly winter days other than at a cosy countryside retreat equipped with its own hot spring facilities? In fact, the open-baths offers unparalleled views of the Northern Alps, making it especially popular for couples seeking romantic and secluded stay. All 290 rooms at Hotel Associa Takayama Resort (www.associa.com) are tastefully designed and available in either Western or Japanese style layout. Dining options are abundant, but my personal favourite spot is the Restaurant ROSIERE that serves exceptional gastronomic fares, including Takayama’s signature dishes.

Access: There is a complimentary shuttle bus to and from the Takayama Station.

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TOYAMA PREFECTURE Zuiryū-ji, Takaoka This is a historical temple, originally built to mourn the death of Takaoka’s founder, Maeda Toshinaga. Its design is heavily influenced by Chinese architectural style during Kamakura Period, when Zen practice became popular among the samurai elites of the time. The symmetrical complex comprises multiple architectural gems that are now considered as nationally important cultural properties such as the Butsuden Hall (Buddhist sanctum) and Hatto Hall (sermon hall) that reflect the style of early Edo Period temples.

In February, April and August, Zuiryūji is lit up with luminous lights, hence open to visitors at night. For a more immersive experience, travellers can join in the meditation session with the monks here. The entrance fees are ¥500 for adults, ¥200 for junior and senior high school students, and ¥100 for elementary school students.

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Access: 15 to 20 minutes’ walk from Shin-Takaoka Station.

Shin-Takaoka Station -> Toyama Station (nine minutes) Service: Tsurugi 710 Shinkansen Tip: The tramcar, or ‘shiden’ as it is fondly called by the locals, is the easiest way to explore Toyama city.

There are three lines serving the city and each ride costs ¥200 per person. International travellers can get complimentary tickets for ‘PORTRAM’ and ‘CENTRAM’ tramcars that run through city centre and Iwase area. These tickets are available at the hotel front desk, so please check with the receptionist for its availability.

Ikedaya Yasubei Shoten, Toyama Established since 1936, this shop (www.hangontan.co.jp/sp/en/) is popular

across the country as the dispenser of reliable herbal medicines. It still uses traditional medicine cabinet to store herbal products, and some of its famous remedies still come in unique retro packaging. Travellers can also try their hands on the meticulous process of making traditional pills using old wooden apparatus.

Access: Three-minute walk from Nishicho Station.

Toyama Glass Art Museum, Toyama Designed by Kengo Kuma (the architect responsible for the new National Stadium that will host the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games), the architecture of this museum (toyama-glass-artmuseum.jp/en/) is an art of its own.

The beautiful space sees Kengo ditches overcrowded decorations and lets the innate qualities of materials such as cedar boards, glasses and mirrors to define the look. The permanent exhibitions are on the fourth and sixth floors, featuring impressive works by

both Japanese and international glass artists such as Dale Chihuly. But if you’re looking for a quiet place to sit and get lost behind a book, the Toyama City Public Library is also housed within the building. The entrance fee to enter the permanent exhibition section is ¥200 per person.

Access: Take tram line number 3 and alight at Grandplaza-mae for ¥200 yen.

The museum is a short walk from the stop.

Fugan Canal Kansui Park, Toyama There is a Starbucks outlet here dubbed as ‘the world’s most beautiful Starbucks’ after it won first prize at the 2018 Store Design Awards. The glass-walled design affords unobstructed views of the nature-rich park (www.kansui-park.jp) and Tenmon-kyo Bridge. Comes night time, the park glows with luminous decorations perfect for a romantic stroll.

Access: 10 minutes’ walk from the North Gate of Toyama Station.

EAT Kaiseki Style Kaiseki refers to quintessential Japanese haute cuisine experience featuring a series of exquisite dishes made from the freshest and often seasonal ingredients, presented in meticulous and artful display. A trip to Japan wouldn’t be complete without experiencing this refined dining. One such place where epicureans could enjoy such indulgence is at Yasuragian (yasuragian.net), an intimate restaurant that comes with its own private garden.

Access: 15-minute walk from the main entrance of Zuiryū-ji.

EAT Seasonal Winter Buri When you have fresh fish, why cook it? Many Japanese swear by the fresh seafood offerings from Toyama Bay, thanks to its unique topography and proximity between the fishing grounds and the port. One particular star from the bay is the seasonal winter buri (yellowtail fish) that possesses a perfect layer of fat, giving it a melt-in-the-

mouth texture and wonderful flavour.

Takaoka Kakinosyo Restaurant serves freshly-caught buri together with other mouth-watering catches from the ocean, all prepped and presented in exquisite kaiseki manner – dining in would truly feel like a regal affair.

Access: 15-minute walk from Takaoka Station.

EAT at Izakaya Izakaya means Japanese style pub, where locals usually flock after work. However, instead of having individual meals, patrons usually go for shared dishes such as tamagoyaki (omelette blocks), sashimi, grilled fish, meat dishes, and salads. Alcohol menu would usually be extensive, but non-drinkers could always opt for soft-drinks, juices and even nonalcoholic mocktails. Umi no Kami Yama no Kami is one of the popular izakayas in Toyama.

Access: 15-minute walk from the North Gate of Toyama Station.

STAY at Samanoko House, Takaoka This is a guesthouse designed in complete Japanese aesthetics and strong sense of place. The location itself is charming, which is the Kanaya-machi neighbourhood filled with latticed houses and stone streets. There are two types of room styles here: modern western and traditional bed on tatami mat.

Access: 20-minute walk from Takaoka Station.

STAY at Toyama Onyado Nono, Toyama The rooms at this hotel (www.hotespa. net/hotels/nono_toyama) are compact yet comfortable and come with private Hinoki bath, giving a nice touch to the stay, especially for guests who are too shy to enjoy the hot springs in public. For those who don’t mind the crowd, there is also a public semi-open-air hot spring bath (separated for men and women) on site.

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ISHIKAWA PREFECTURE Toyama Station -> Kanazawa Station (23 minutes) Service: Hakutaka Shinkansen Kenroku-en, Kanazawa Named as one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, this garden (www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kenrokuen) was constructed in the span of nearly two centuries by the Maeda family. It used to be the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle, and comprises six essential components that make a perfect park according to the Chinese landscape theory: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water and panorama.

This is also where visitors can find one of the oldest fountains in the country. The sight changes according to seasons; plum and cherry blossoms dominate in spring, while azaleas and irises blooms the most during early summer. The park radiates in red and orange hues comes fall.

Access: Take 1-3 JR buses at bus stop number 4 at Kanazawa Station. Alternatively, the city’s Loop Bus and Kenrokuen Shuttle Bus also stop at the park from Kanazawa Station, but costs an additional ¥200 per person. There is a one-day Loop buss pass at ¥500 for adults and ¥250 for children.

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21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa The city is branding itself as a vibrant art hub, and this museum (www.kanazawa21.jp) is a testament to this movement. It was designed by two famous Japanese architects, Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, and contains several galleries, library, cafe and communal learning spaces, which are all arranged in a puzzling maze. Art aficionados can expect to see impressive artworks by world-renowned artists such as Anish Kapoor. One installation that excited me the most is the ‘Swimming Pool’ by Argentine artist, Leandro Erlich, which allows spectators observe peoples’ behaviour in a space underneath a transparent glass layered by water that is only 10-centimetre deep, giving the illusion that the people standing or moving under the glass are doing so underwater.

Entry to the museum is free but to view the temporary exhibitions, travellers need to fork out ¥360 per person.

Children can enter the exhibitions for free.

Access: Take 1-3 JR buses at bus stop number 4 at Kanazawa Station. The museum is merely a five-minute walk from Kenroku-en.

Kanazawa Bikazari Asano, Kanazawa The history of gold leaf production in the city dates back 400 years ago, when then ruler, Lord Toshiie Maeda, encouraged art development. A gold leaf is made by beating gold repetitively over several days into extremely delicate thin sheet.

Today, gold leaf is used in many ‘Kanazawa haku” (nationally designated traditional handicraft), including lacquer ware, skin care and even snacks. Get in touch with your creative side and enrol in a DIY workshop to personalise your own gold leaf souvenir at this atelier (enkanazawa.hakuichi.co.jp/shop).

Access: Take JR buses at Kanazawa Station to Hashibacho Bus Stop.

Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa Chaya means an entertainment hub where geishas have been entertaining since Edo period. The largest Chaya in Kanazawa is the Higashi Chaya district and has been designated as the country’s cultural asset. The area is filled with rows of twostorey traditional houses beautifully adorned with bonsai trees.

There is a geisha performance held by the Kanazawa City Tourism Association here every Saturday.

Access: Take JR buses at Kanazawa Station to Hashibacho Bus Stop.

Omi-cho Market, Kanazawa This vibrant fresh food market (ohmicho-ichiba.com/ohmicho) has been serving the city since Edo Period. Today, the market’s offerings have expanded into other fares including clothing, flowers and cookware. Many stalls also give out food samples, so don’t be shy and taste them all! For a full meal, try kaisendon, which is a popular dish comprising a steaming rice bowl topped with fresh sashimi. Ichinokura Restaurant (www. ichi-no-kura.jp) serves extensive kaisendon menu, and they are affordable. Afterwards, be sure to try the gold leaf ice cream from the market – it is absolutely divine!

Access: Take JR buses at Kanazawa Station to Musashigatsuji Bus Stop.

Kanazawa Station -> Komatsu Station (17 minutes) Service: The Limited Express Shirasagi Komatsu Hikiyama Gallery MIYOSSA, Komatsu Kabuki (a traditional Japanese theatre performance) has a long fascinating history, and now is listed as UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. The performers would adorn exquisite costumes and wear elaborate makeup while performing classics with usually dramatic storylines. At MIYOSSA (www. city.komatsu.lg.jp/soshiki/miyossa), visitors get to be part of this legacy by joining several workshops including kabuki makeup, Mihzuki craft-making and Shamisen (three-stringed traditional guitar) for a minimal fee.

Access: 7-minute walk from the west exit of Komatsu Station.

Clockwise from top left: the serene view of Kenroku-en; this delicious vanilla-flavoured ice cream with gold leaf would cost ¥300 per cone; a visitor enjoying the ‘Swimming Pool’ installation by Leandro Erlich at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

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Natadera Temple, Komatsu Considered as a sacred site for the past 1,300 years, many still come to this temple (www.natadera.com/EN) to pray for a fresh start. The main feature, Iwaya Honden, is a prayer space in a cave where devotees come to purify their souls. A walk through the dark passage in the cave symbolises the purification process, and once you emerge from it, you will be cleansed from your sins and reborn as a new person.

Nevertheless, this ancient temple stands out aesthetically against dramatic rock hill background; a dedicated platform also affords spectacular view of Mount Hakusan, which remains Natadera’s main object of worship today. The entire vicinity is huge and might take an hour or so to explore completely.

Access: Take the Mountain Route on CANBUS from Kagaonsen Station.

The one-day ticket costs ¥1,000 per person, and valid to all destinations along the route.

Komatsu Station -> Kagaonsen Station (nine minutes) Service: The Limited Express Thunderbird Kaga Fruits Land, Kaga Love eating fresh fruits straight from the farm? Then this park (www.furulan. com/eng) is for you, where visitors can experience fruit-picking all year round.

Beni Hoppe strawberries are abundant except during summer and fall, when apples and grapes are the main produce.

You can also top for the all-you-can-eat experience, which lasts for 30 minutes at ¥1,800 per person.

Access: Take the Sea Route on CANBUS from Kagaonsen Station.

The one-day ticket costs ¥1,000 per person, and valid to all destinations along the route.

EAT Kagakanigohan Join in Kaga’s gastronomic culture and taste its finest offering – snow crab or kani in Japanese – prepared in this exuberant haute cuisine meal (www.kagakanigohan.com). The sweet rich taste of the crab is addictive and so memorable that I can still taste it until today. The set lunch comes in elaborate small dishes such as crab sukiyaki, udon, dashi and dessert; there is also lucky charm incorporated in the dining presentation for guests to bring home. Do remember that these sets are in limited number daily, so it is best to book well in advance. Omotenashi Restaurant is one of the best places to go for kagakanigohan meal.

STAY at Yukai Resort Yamashiro Onsen, Kaga This resort (yukai-r.jp/info/en) defines authentic Japanese hospitality: traditional beds on tatami mat, hot spring, relaxing area with massage facilities, comic room, and arcade centre.

Guests may even choose their own yukata design here.

Access: Take taxi from Kagaonsen Station; the journey lasts around 15 minutes.

STAY at Kansai Airport Washington Hotel Stacked with 502 modern yet comfortable soundproofed guestrooms,

this hotel (washington-hotels.jp/ kansai) makes an ideal overnight choice for travellers who want to stay close to the airport. Also, there is a convenient store for guests want to stock up on supplies and essentials.

Access: Take a free shuttle bus to the hotel from Kansai International Airport.

Kansai International Airport This airport (www.kansai-airport. or.jp) – affectionately known as “KIX” – is the third busiest airport in Japan, serving over 20 million passengers every year. With such traffic, it becomes more user-friendly over the years, with facilities like shower facilities, prayer room, medical facilities, on-site hotels and spas. On top of these, the dining selection is so good that travellers might even pray for a delay! Try Osaka’s signature snack, okonomiyaki, at Botejyu Restaurant (www. facebook.com/botejyu.japan) for local flavour. JR Limited Express Haruka connects travellers between the airport and Tennoji (a station in southern Osaka), Shin-Osaka (the shinkansen station of Osaka) and Kyoto.

Gaya Travel Magazine extends our heartfelt gratitude to JR-West, JR-Central and INFINITY Communications, including the respective tourism boards, for making the writer’s trip in Central Japan smooth sailing.

Clockwise from top left: The Kondo Keo-den (Central Worship Pavilion) at Natadera Temple; visitors donning the traditional costumes used in kabuki performance; the Beni Hoppe (Red Cheeks) strawberries are said to be the sweetest variety in Japan; Omotenashi Restaurant prepares only 10 servings of kagakanigohan set dish per day.

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Destinations

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OF SUNRISE, SMALLEST MONKEY AND OTHER JAVANESE BEAUTIES Te x t & I m a g e s b y : S H A H I DA S A K E R I

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The stunning view of Tengger Caldera and the peak of Mount Semeru from the Penanjakan viewpoint at Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Tips on Visiting the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

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» There are plenty of travel agencies in Surabaya that sell packages to the national park, so choose wisely according to your budget. Alternatively, most hotels and guesthouses near the national park offer similar packages. All accommodation options are available via online booking platform Agoda. » For those seeking personalised experience and more flexibility, take a bus to Cemoro Lawang and stay overnight there. It is the closest village to the national park, where one can reach the viewpoint on Mount Penanjakan on foot in about an hour. » A package typically costs around IDR600,000 per jeep that can accommodate up to six people. The regular route includes the sunrise-watching spot, Teletubbies Hill and Pasir Berbisik (Whispering Sand), famed as the shooting location of an award-winning movie under the same name. » Layer up! It can be quite cold during pre-dawn, but it gets warm once the sun is up. It also helps to have a mask in hand to block the smell of sulphur at Mount Bromo crater. » The period between October to April is considered wet season in Indonesia, so unless you want to see volcanoes in the rain, try arranging your trip anytime between May to September.

However, expect larger crowd during July and August, which is the peak tourist season. » Due to its popularity, the viewpoint at Mount Penanjakan could get overcrowded. For a quieter experience, opt for the Seruni viewpoint instead. The view is just as good.

“Oh, this better be worth it.”

To be honest, I wasn’t sure whether I’d enjoy the sunrise tour in the first place – I dreaded the idea of hauling myself out of bed in the wee hours, specifically at 2:00 a.m., just to catch the first light of the day. Yes, sunrises are beautiful, but so does Chris Hemsworth, the main star of my dreams.

But after having said that, I’ve never been to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park before, yet I’ve heard many people raving about its sunrise. It would seem such a waste if I didn’t visit the place the right way; so, in the end, I agreed to join the tour.

The drive from Surabaya to Wonotoro, our base, took about three hours and a half. Our small group checked into Jiwa Jawa Resort Bromo (www.jiwajawa. com), an environmentally-conscious resort with its own art gallery and an open-air amphitheatre, which I heard is a world-renowned venue for the Jazz Gunung festival. The resort’s rooms are designed with ultimate convenience in mind: a comfortable bed, a hot shower, a hair dryer, bath amenities and more – it was hard for me to leave the room and brave the early morning cold.

At 3:00 a.m., a group of jeeps rumbled in front of the lobby, waiting to transport us. The journey took an hour or so along craggy narrow roads to reach the middle of Mount Penanjakan, where plenty of jeeps were parked, flanking both sides of the road since it was more congested at the peak. “Ok, we need to walk from here to the viewpoint,” said my guide. The night was still dark but my half-asleep mind was finally awaken in full by the sudden lively scene; I could make out the silhouette of sellers offering warm snacks, while gojek (motorcycle) riders tirelessly offering rides.

At 2,770 metres above sea level, Mount Penanjakan viewpoint is slightly higher than Tengger Caldera, making it ideal

for witnessing the volcanic cones of Bromo and Batok. I found a great spot at the viewpoint, and peered into the darkness in front of me for the merest hint of the grand landscape I was promised. I saw nothing. But at about 5:30 a.m., amidst the murmurs of indistinctive chatters of excited spectators, the sky began to show light. A giant orange orb rose slowly in the distance, painting the landscape into a canvas of fiery splendour.

Beneath me, a carpet of mysterious mist started to blanket the green valley. And suddenly, I saw it: Mount Bromo in its glorious state, releasing white dramatic plume of gas out of the crater. I’d be lying if I were to say that such hypnotising and geologically unique view didn’t take my breath away. And at that very moment, I started to understand why people chase sunrises for fun. “It’s definitely worth it.”

Mount Bromo has deep significance to the Hindus. In fact, the name Bromo was derived from the Javanese pronunciation of Brahma, the Hindu God of Creator. During Kasada Festival, Hindu devotees from the surrounding villages throw offerings into the crater and pray at Pura Luhur Poten, located at the base of the volcano. I was told that it is safe to climb Mount Bromo due to its stability and predictability. Besides, it is also one of the most accessible mountains in Indonesia even for people with average fitness. One may opt for a leisurely stroll across the Sea of Sand to reach the foot of the mountain, while those with jelly legs can take the ride on horseback that costs IDR 150,000 per return trip between the car park area and the base of the mountain.

The adorable Pygmy Marmoset residing at Batu Secret Zoo; the wayang kancil, a type of traditional shadow puppetry popular in Java; the mini Hobbiton at Batu Flower Garden; Tridi village boasts a colourful new look after receiving a major makeover.

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EXPLORING MORE OF EAST JAVA: Panji Museum Exhibiting the archaeological treasures and literary gems of the Mataram kingdom, Panji Museum is the place where travellers can explore East Java’s proudest heritage: its art. Some credible sources cited the region as the place where much of Southeast Asian art originated. The museum is named after a legendary Javanese tale – Panji – which is a tragic romantic story similar to ‘Romeo and Juliet’. This is also the right place for history buffs to learn about the birth of Malang town.

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Sanan Village Support the local industry by buying local products. In Malang, Sanan Village has been the main producing area for tempe (fermented soy bars) since the 1800s. One may find a variety of tempebased products, including tempe chips created by mixing tapioca flour and salt.

These chips come in over 10 delicious flavours and are sold at IDR4,000 to IDR8,000 per pack.

where well-off locals love to build their weekend residences. It is a peaceful but never boring getaway destination, popular since the Dutch colonial days, with much-preserved undulating countryside, orchards and quaint little villages. Those who decide to take a pause from city life can escape into the woods and chase waterfalls, while travellers hunting photogenic spots will be enthralled by abundant selections of dreamy backgrounds.

including an Indian rhinoceros and the adorable Pygmy Marmoset, the world’s smallest monkey native to the Amazon rainforests in South America. Animals are properly treated here, and its active breeding programmes are recognised internationally, ensuring the survival of species. Families with young children should also take the opportunity to experience the train ride, which allows visitors to get up close and feed selected animals.

And Batu Flower Garden offers just that: plenty of exciting thematic photo opportunities that include the Smurf village, the igloo village and a hammock tower. Our favourite is the Hobbiton-inspired mini park where one can witness lots and lots of colourful Hobbit holes. The general entrance fee to Batu Flower Garden is IDR25,000, but expect the total cost to go up as separate fees are charged at the door of each thematic mini park. For instance, entrance to the Hobbiton-inspired park costs an additional IDR25,000 per person.

The Museum Angkut Movie Star Studio is the first and the biggest transportation museum in Asia. Admire over 300 vintage automobiles, some of which are still running smoothly.

Highlights include the Land Rover Ceremonial once used by Queen Elizabeth II, Boeing 737-200 that used to be President Suharto’s private jet, Formula 1 car and Airbus plane simulators. The museum also features a thematic Gangster Town complete with vintage car props and creative building facades that come alive during a dance show performed by the park’s talented staff.

Kampung Warna-warni Jodipan & Tridi In the south of Malang’s city centre lie two riverside neighbourhoods that were once filled with anaemic walls and unkempt narrow streets. But the scenery changed after a group of students from nearby Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang, with the help from a local company Indana Paint, gave the area an artistic makeover by splashing the walls with bold colours and built a glass bridge across the river connecting the two villages, magically transforming Jodipan and Tridi. Today, the narrow lanes become an open gallery of vibrant artworks that attract many Instagram royalties, who ended up visiting the villages and buying products and services sold by the villagers, hence increasing their income.

Jawa Timur Park (jtp.id) With over 10 attractions across 22 hectares of land, it would probably take two days to fully explore Jawa Timur Park. One may travel across the globe on a single trip at The Legend Stars Park, where its main attractions revolve around replicas of iconic monuments such as Taj Mahal and White House.

The Infinite World, on the other hand, pull visitors into a kaleidoscopic world of impressive art installations that tease one’s imagination. The Fun Tech Plaza is the centre for electronic games while the World Music Museum exposes the evolution of music industry through a remarkable collection of musical instruments such as the 18th century polyphon from Germany, an elaborate concert hall, and displays of life-like wax sculptures of famous celebrities like Adele and Taylor Swift.

Batu Flower Garden (www.batuflowergarden-cobanrais.com) Like Cameron Highlands, Batu is an area known for its cool temperature

Animal lovers should pay a visit to Batu Secret Zoo, a breeding and conservation centre that houses almost 300 species of animals from around the world,

Beejay Bakau Resort Established since 2012, this eco-resort offers travellers the chance to learn about the significance of the mangrove system that exists at the confluence of Banger River in the most enlightening ways. The mangroves are decorated with twinkling fairy lights and decorative art installations to enhance the site’s aesthetics and enjoyed by travellers as they stroll along the wooden walkways. There is also a restaurant on site in case travellers feel peckish.

Gaya Travel Magazine team members extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism of The Republic of Indonesia and the Embassy of The Republic of Indonesia Kuala Lumpur Office for making our trip to East Java smooth sailing.

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Destinations

Admiring the Majestic

BANYUWANGI REGENCY

Te x t & I m a g e s b y : M U H A M M A D H A S I F M O H D J E L A N I

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It was midnight and after a short an-hour-and-a-half nap on the shuttle bus from our hotel, my travelling companions and I arrived at the base camp of Mount Ijen. It was pitch-dark and small lights from head lamps can be a huge succour to show us the way up to our destination. The path was slippery and it was freezing cold that we needed to be cautious or we might slip and hurt ourselves.

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Clockwise from left: A local miner doing his routine at Ijen Crater; Pulau Merah Beach which is popular for picnic during weekend; Cruising along the river at Bedul; Javanese bull which can be spotted at Sadengan Savanna.

We bumped into local men many times who turned out to be miners and trolley or ojek-drivers who happily offered us an easier option: by riding their ojek at, of course, certain negotiable cost. I refused because I want to climb Mount Ijen with my own fortitude. After two hours of covering about 3.7 kilometres, we safely arrived at the top.

But the journey had not yet ended.

The ‘blue fire’ we were anticipating to see is not at the peak but somewhere down the Ijen Crater, famously dubbed as the most acidic lake in the world, near the active volcano. The journey going down the steep cliffs was more dangerous than the journey before but we eventually made it.

It was still dark, the ideal lighting condition to witness the miraculous ‘blue fire’.

The sun came up shortly after, waking us up to the surrounding otherworldly landscape that was a sight to behold.

With the air covered in sulphur, my safety mask ensured that I remain protected while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Then I realised that the locals, including my friendly guide and an old man I stumbled along the way, did not wear mask. And these strong men were carrying huge loads of sulphur rocks on their backs treading up and down the terrain. It was unbelievable to see that these men were able to endure detrimental heat, fumes, loads and rough journey with no other intention but to feed their beloved family. At that very moment, my admiration towards Banyuwangi became stronger because the destination is more than just Mount Ijen and the ‘blue fire’…

Good to know » The word Banyuwangi means

‘aromatic water’ in Javanese. » Banyuwangi is the easternmost city in Java, thus famously known as the #SunriseOfJava » It is separated from Bali by the Bali Straits, only 30 minutes’ ferry ride to and from Gilimanuk Harbour in Bali and Ketapang Harbour in Banyuwangi. » From Kuala Lumpur, travellers need to transit at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport before arriving at Blimbingsari Airport, Banyuwangi. » Time zone in Banyuwangi is GMT+7 (one hour behind of Kuala Lumpur)

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WHEN IN BANYUWANGI‌ EXPERIENCE De Djawatan For a moment, I thought I was in a fantasy realm because De Djawatan seems so fantastic it could be mistaken as the Fangorn Forest in the Lord of the Rings trilogy by JRR Tolkien.

It is fascinating to know that these giant trembesi trees are already over 100 years old, looking majestically sylvan and perfect for great Instagram shots. This six-hectare forest is now a popular recreational park for local and international tourists alike.

Pulau Merah Beach Located along the Southern Coast of East Java, this place is also known as Pulo Merah, which means ‘red island’.

The name is derived from the red soil surrounding a small green hill just

100 metres away from the beach and accessible via foot during low tide.

Besides being an excellent surfing spot in Banyuwangi, families usually come to this place for a picnic.

Bedul At the western end of Alas Purwo National Park, there is a mangrove area known for its similarities with the Amazon called Bedul, which is developed as a tourist attraction to support regional conservation effort and boost local economy at the same time. A trip exploring the mangroves using local boats known as gondang-gandung offers the chance to encounter wildlife such as monkeys, monitor lizards, herons and more. If you are lucky, you could even witness migratory birds from Australia like the sterna birds!

Sadengan Savanna This 80-hectare semi-natural attraction,

also part of Alas Purwo National Park, is formed after a forest destruction, whereby it slowly turns into a meadow where faunas like Javanese bull, deer, wild boar, wild dog, and leopard including birds like peacock, egret, eagle, black-winged starling and more can be spotted around here. A threefloor lookout tower is provided but it is advisable for travellers to bring along binoculars to spot the animals much easier.

Trianggulasi Beach Derived its name from Trianggulasi Monument located around 500 metres from the north coast, Trianggulasi Beach is one of the beautiful beaches in Alas Purwo National Park. The waves are quite strong thus swimming and surfing are highly prohibited. Instead, you are welcome to just relax and enjoy the wind from the Indian Ocean while taking in the scenery.

Having been in existence since 1773 thus the oldest and the largest mosque in the regency, it can accommodate over five thousand worshippers at one time. There is a giant Quran (Holy Book of Islam) inside this mosque that is written with beautiful Islamic calligraphy, graced with Banyuwangi’s iconic Gajah Oling motif, used for recitation and in-depth study (tadarus).

EAT There are myriads of cafés and restaurants in Banyuwangi should travellers crave for tasty local delicacies and dishes. Below are some of our recommendations.

Top: Osing Deles, where travellers can buy Banyuwangi products as souvenirs; Bottom: Durians which can also be savoured at Pondok Indah.

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Bangsring Beach Also known as Bangsring Underwater, there is a floating house not far from the beach where travellers can experience swimming and snorkelling with plenty of colourful fishes, including sharks! I was informed that these sharks are being conserved here before being released to the open water. Nevertheless, the underwater world here is enthralling with fishes aplenty!

» Sun Osing Café & Resto – Serving local and international menus including cocktails and pastries.

Must try: Sego tempong. » Heroes Café – A café equipped with karaoke service. Must try: Nasi campur (mixed rice). » Pondok Indah – Serving local cuisines in a green, natural surroundings. Must try: Nasi bakar pedo. » Watu Dodol – A beachfront restaurant where Bali can be seen in the distance. Must try: Nasi campur. » Aamdani Restaurant – Serving local and international menus and suitable for a large group of travellers.

Must try: Nasi goreng Aamdani (Amdaani fried rice).

STAY

Osing Deles (https://osingdeles.com/) If you are wondering where you can buy Banyuwangi merchandises to bring back home, this is the answer.

From signature snacks to traditional batik, this is the place for you to not only shop for souvenirs, but also dine at the restaurant and café.

New Surya Hotel Located in Jajag, this hotel offers a comfortable stay for travellers to relax after spending time exploring Banyuwangi. The rooms are cosy and the food decent. There is a pool near the restaurant should travellers feel like swimming.

Masjid Agung Baiturrahman Not to be confused with the one in Aceh, Masjid Agung Baiturrahman in Banyuwangi is a grand mosque used to be called Masjid Jami’ Banyuwangi.

Ketapang Indah Hotel (https://www.ketapangindahhotel.com/) Set under the shades of many coconut trees, Ketapang Indah Hotel is highly recommended for it offers many other

facilities than just a comfortable room; it has swimming pool, playground, spa called ‘Omah’, Wahoo Restaurant and even spaces for events and weddings.

When in East Java, Head to West Bali...

Since Banyuwangi is just 30 minutes by ferry away from Bali, these are some places that we recommend in West Bali:

» Plataran L’Harmonie - West

Bali National Park (https://www.plataran.com/ecotourism/plataran-lharmonie) – A hidden gem in northwest tip of Bali, this 382-hectare protected area offers unspoilt forest and beaches where wild animals like the Javanese deer and the endangered species of Bali starling birds can be spotted here, among others.

» The Octagon Ocean Club

(https://www.plataran.com/venuesdining/the-octagon-ocean-club) – This avant-garde dining venue is so exceptional and private, located amidst the forest and sea in West Bali National Park. More than just a venue with an incredible 33-metre infinity pool, the menu here is just extraordinary.

» Plataran Menjangan Resort

& Spa (https://www.plataran.com/hotelsresorts/plataran-menjangan) – Offering three categories of settings for its well-appointed villas (forest, mangrove and ocean), this resort also comes with an internationallyrecognised, beachfront spa named ‘Padma Spa’.

Gaya Travel Magazine would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Consulate General of Republic Indonesia Johor Bahru and Indonesian Ministry of Tourism for making the writer’s journey to Banyuwangi and West Bali such a memorable one.

Destinations

Belitung, The Land of Laskar Pelangi Te x t & I m a g e s b y M U H A M M A D H A S I F B I N M O H D J E L A N I

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Do you know that Belitung Island is queuing to become ‘the next Bali’?

Located on the east coast of Sumatra, in the province of Bangka-Belitung, this charming island is surrounded by more than 100 other islands and islets. Belitung was used as the shooting location for one of Indonesia’s highest grossing films entitled Laskar Pelangi (Rainbow Troops) that was adapted from the namesake novel by Indonesia’s best-selling author, Andrea Hirata, and released back in 2008.

The film’s inspiring story revolves around the struggle in educating 10 determined students by their two teachers amidst poverty during the 1970’s when Belitung was still one of the world’s leading producers of tin. The movie was said to have put Belitung on many travellers’ map. Since then, Belitung is often regarded as the Land of Laskar Pelangi.

Follow my take on this humbling paradise that I think should be on your next travel list!

Tip: Best time to visit Belitung is from March until August when the island experiences dry season and clearer weather.

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Clockwise from Top Left: The writer and media friends attempting to immitate the pose of the official poster of Laskar Pelangi; Dermaga Kirana which locates few shell-shaped structures made from rattan; The vibrant, colourful walls of Museum Kata Andrea Hirata; One of the prime shooting locations of Laskar Pelangi, Pantai Tanjung Tinggi

EXPERIENCE SD Muhammadiyah (Replica of Laskar Pelangi School) Probably the most iconic landmark related to the Laskar Pelangi phenomenon, the replica of the school where Andrea Hirata was once attended as a pupil called SD Muhammadiyah is located in the sub-district of Gantong, East Belitung. The site became famous for being the main shooting location for Laskar Pelangi.

Those who has watched the movie will likely find this rustic, dilapidated structure remarkably sentimental and evocative.

Dermaga Kirana Just minutes away by foot from SD Muhammadiyah, Dermaga Kirana is another popular attraction on the island. Alternatively, this place is also known as ‘Rumah Keong’ or ‘Rumah Rotan’ because this collection of shellshaped structures are made from rattan. This is the place where travellers can unwind and enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake.

Museum Kata Andrea Hirata (www.museumkataandreahirata.com) Said to be the first and only literature museum in Indonesia, this kaleidoscopic building, as its name suggests, is fully dedicated to Andrea Hirata. More than just a place where you can understand more of his previous works including Laskar Pelangi, travellers can also learn about his humble yet inspiring personal life. Andrea, himself, also set up a free school near the museum where he also shares his story with the students.

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Tanjung Tinggi Beach This beach is also known as Laskar Pelangi Beach since it was used as a shooting location for the said film. The distinctive feature of the beach is the giant granite stones where travellers can play hide-and-seek and enjoy the awe-inspiring view from the top of the stones. There are several shops selling food and merchandises near the beach as well.

Danao Kaolin Used to be a kaolin mining area, Danao Kaolin in Perawas is now a wasteland that has captured the attention of many due to its appealing turquoise-coloured lake and white sand. While the view is indeed stunning, swimming is not advisable.

Top: The iconic Zarra Tree House at Leebong Island; Bottom: Kong Djie Coffee in Jalan Serma Abdullah, the oldest coffee shop in Belitung

Leebong Island (leebongisland.com) In the southwest of Belitung, lies a hidden gem waiting to be known as another must-visit destination called Leebong Island. The water is crystal clear, even along

that mangroves that I think might just be the cleanest I have ever seen. Since it is surrounded by other islands, the wave is not strong, perfect for swimming with family and loved ones.

Leebong is famous for its sand bank that is accessible by foot, equipped with swings and hammocks for travellers to frolic. There is a resort with an iconic tree house and a few shallow beaches with beautiful pagodas, making the island ideal for couples seeking privacy.

EAT Raja Seafood Belitung Like most island destinations, seafood is famous in Belitung and Raja Seafood Belitung is one of the more popular restaurants. Among the favourites here are rajungan rebus (steamed blue crab), kepiting asam manis (sweet sour red crab) and udang mentega (butter prawn).

Fega Restaurant It serves mainly seafood-based and traditional dishes, including ikan tenggiri bakar kecap (grilled mackerel in soy sauce), kepiting saos Padang (red crab cooked in Padang sauce), udang goreng mentega (fried butter prawn) and cumi goreng tepung (fried squid). Other than that, this restaurant is famous for its beautiful interior and setting that include a replica of a ship facing a stunning lake.

Belitong Timpo Duluk If you are craving for traditional food, this establishment might be your answer. Set in a two connecting traditional wooden houses, this restaurant teaches travellers on the basic dining etiquettes of Belitung people whereby younger diners will first serve food to the older ones before eating. The dishes here include sate ayam (chicken satay), lalapan (local salad), gangan ikan (fish soup), gangan darat (chicken or beef soup) and ayam ketumbar (coriander chicken), all served on antique dulang (tray) that is meant to be shared among four to five diners.

Kota 1001 Warung Kopi Manggar Coffee is a big deal in Belitung since most of its people like to have coffee while chatting with families and friends, hence the meaning of the term ‘ngopi’ (‘drinking coffee’). No wonder there is one special street in Manggar where travellers can find coffee shops along the road named Kota 1001 Warung Kopi Manggar.

Hanggar 21 Famous for its Mie Belitung (Belitung noodle), which is the signature food of the island, this establishment, which is a hotel and restaurant, is just minutes away from the

airport, making it very convenient to start or end your trip in Belitung.

Kong Djie Coffee The brand has many branches in Belitung to the point it is often referred as ‘the Starbucks of Belitung’. If you are looking for the most unique branch of this coffeeshop, then head to its flagship and oldest branch on Jalan Serma Abdullah, also the first coffee shop in Belitung since 1943. While kopi o (black coffee) and kopi susu (coffee with milk) are the signatures here, travellers can also try their singkong goreng (fried cassava) and pisang keju (fried banana with cheese) for side dish.

STAY Golden Tulip Essential Belitung (essential-belitung.goldentulip.com) This three-star hotel is located in Tanjung Pandan, approximately 30 minutes by car from the airport.

With 76 cosy rooms and casual-looking The Branche Restaurant & Bar, the hotel best suits leisure travellers who seek value-for-money and comfortable accommodation.

Other things you can experience in Belitung… » Visit the Rumah Adat (cultural house) to learn more

about Belitung’s traditional architecture. » Do island-hopping to Garuda, Batu Belayar and Sand Island before snorkelling at the popular Lengkuas Island. » Pay a visit to Vihara Devi Kwan Im, the oldest Buddhist temple in Belitung that stands out in colourful hues. » Unwind at Burung Mandi Beach and take note of well-crafted boats along the soft-brown sandy beach. » Inspect the hometown of the former governor of Jakarta, Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama at Kampoeng Ahok.

Gaya Travel Magazine expresses our heartfelt gratitude to MTN Getaways Pte. Ltd. and Naza Holdings Singapore for making the writer’s trip to Belitung possible. For more information about travel packages to Belitung, please browse www.mtngetaways.com.

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Gaya Special Feature

#MYLabuanStory

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Labuan Corporation, together with Gaya Travel Magazine, organised a social media contest, starting from 15 November 2018 until 31 December 2018.

The contest comprised three (3) categories such as ‘Best Video’, ‘Best Story’ and ‘Best Photo’ with cash prizes totalling MYR19,500.

For ‘Best Video’ category, the first prize winner garnered RM5,000, while the second and the third prize winners brought home MYR3,000 and MYR2,000 respectively.

The winners of the ‘Best Story’ Category, on the other hand, walked away with MYR3,000

(first prize), MYR2,000 (second prize) and MYR1,000 (third prize). Finally, the winners under ‘Best Photo’ Category were granted with MYR2,000 (first prize), MYR1,000 (second prize) and MYR500 (third prize).

The contest proved effective in promoting Labuan as an upand-coming tourism destination, showcasing the island’s beauty and attractions through social media platforms, mainly Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

For more information on Labuan, visit https://www.labuantourism. my/.

WINNERS FOR #MYLABUANSTORY : Video Category

1st Winner - Mark Adrian Khor Wei Meng

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2nd Winner - Muhammad Redzuan Kassim

3rd Winner - Muhammad Amirul Adzim bin Muhamad Mazlan.

WINNERS FOR #MYLABUANSTORY: Photo Category

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WINNERS FOR #MYLABUANSTORY: Story Category 1st Winner: RaW / Rusli Wahab Labuan, Malaysia’s Federal Territory in Borneo part of the country, is not exactly a “stranger” to me. Well, at least not in name. At one point in my life, a CEO of an offshore financial company had asked me if I’d like to go work in Labuan. I went, “What? Labuan? So far away and what’s there anyway?” “Cheap cars and chocolates,” was the common answer at the time, which was not enough for me to consider visiting, let alone to move there.

Fast forward to more than a decade later, I finally had the opportunity to #ExploreLabuan for myself. And boy, oh boy! I came away wishing that I hadn’t brushed off the offer so quickly! That I should’ve given it more thoughts and gone there first to see what it’s really like before making any decision.

Because Labuan really has surprised me.

And I’ve fallen in love with it.

I love how for such a small island, it has a long, rich history – Japanese Surrender Point, Peace Park, War Memorial and the mysterious Labuan Chimney. And the museums – Labuan Museum, Marine Museum & Chimney Museum – although small, are all well-curated.

I love how easy it is to escape the crowd and enjoy nature, whether at Kina Benuwa or Tanjung Kubong or at one of the nearby islands like Pulau Papan.

And talking about islands, I can’t help but feel envious that Kuraman, Rusukan Besar and Rusukan Kecil - which make up Labuan Marine Park - are just a short boat ride from the town, perfect for some snorkelling, diving or just chilling about.

In short, I’ve come to learn and appreciate that Labuan is not just about cheap cars and chocolates. That it has got a lot more.

And that it really is The Pearl of Borneo.

2nd Winner: Nur Farhana Binti Salleh Chasing Sunsets I strongly feel that Bornean accent is pretty much, stimulating. When I arrived in Labuan and interacted with the locals, most of them speak Sabahan and some speak Sarawakian. At that moment, I know I somehow belong here.

What excites me during the trip in Labuan was definitely the sunset! For that specific reason, we took ATV rides for a good 30 minutes beginning from the off-road trails and touchdown by the beach just before sundown! It was grand, never have I known Labuan has the best spot for sunsets. We stayed until it was dark and glad we made the right move for the evening. The ride is a must-do activity for extreme outdoor enthusiasts and it’s affordable.

Another good spot for sunset is at Ramsey Point where we had coconut

drinks after trying out the first zipline passing over the sea. There’s this parahu larai ride from the beach as well and it was a great experience and though we just sat and enjoyed the breeze, it felt like it was us who maneuvered the boat, just like Charlie St Cloud!

Aside from the beaches and sunsets, Labuan is pleasantly sprinkled with free sites and activities. It’s not every day we get into the water and take the time to cool off with dips in the blue water along the way.

Labuan still has to be more advertised, I thought. The small island of Labuan may not be one of Malaysia’s top tourist hotspots but there are plenty of attractions here to keep everyone occupied.

Remember, there’s sunrise and sunset every single day, and enjoying the view are absolutely free!

3rd Winner: Mohd.Zam Ali Saya bekerja di Kuala Lumpur. Suatu hari dalam bulan Julai, saya terima panggilan telefon daripada pihak pengurusan bertanyakan apakah saya berminat untuk bekerja di Labuan. Tanpa berfikir panjang, saya jawab, “Ya, sudah tentu”.

Hakikatnya, tidak banyak yang saya tahu tentang Labuan. Saya hanya tahu ia sebuah pulau dengan aktiviti berkaitan minyak dan gas, terletak di Borneo, tempat yang eksotik.

Dalam masa kurang sebulan, saya selesaikan semua tugas, berkemas dan

From left: 1st Winner (Photo Category) - Asmali @ Faizal bin Mohd Tahir; 2nd Winner (Photo Category) - Abdull Muqtadir bin Abdull Halim; 3rd Winner (Photo Category) - Azize bin Mohd Yusoph.

berpindah ke Labuan. Itu berlaku pada 1 Ogos 2011.

Empat bulan kemudian, anak-anak menyusul. Alia tingkatan satu dan Lutfil darjah enam. Isteri tidak bersama, kami perlu sesuaikan diri dan kami berjaya dengan cepat. Semua itu kerana warga, suasana dan gaya hidup di Labuan itu sendiri.

Membesarkan anak-anak yang meningkat remaja sendirian di Labuan langsung tidak membimbangkan, aktiviti jenayah rendah, penduduk yang ramah dan persekitarannya indah.

Kawan-kawan baru berlainan bangsa dan agama, buatkan kami lupa seketika kehidupan sebelumnya di ibu negara.

Toleransi beragama dan budaya sebegini belum pernah kami rasa. Sering juga menghantar kawan-kawan Alia ke gereja, bila mereka menghabiskan cuti hujung minggu bermalam di rumah saya.

Menghabiskan waktu di pantai menjadi hobi baru kami. Pantai Batu Manikar ke Pantai Sungai Miri sepanjang 9 kilometer pernah memenangi “Anugerah

Pantai Bersih” daripada United Nation Environment Program. Selain kebersihan, pemandangan matahari terbenam di sini sungguh menambat hati. Semasa di tingkatan satu, Lutfil berjaya masuk ke sekolah berasrama penuh berhampiran pantai ini.

Saban minggu, selain ke pantai, muziummuzium, taman-taman peringatan perang, taman botani, menjadi lokasi kami beraktiviti. Ya, kami jauh dari keluarga, tapi kawan-kawan sentiasa ada. Hari berganti, hampir enam tahun kami tinggal di sini.

Mac 2017, saya diarah bertugas di ibu negara, kembali ke pangkuan keluarga.

Kini, Alia menyambung pengajian di USM dan Lutfil di UiTM setelah menamatkan pengajian menengah di Labuan.

Terima kasih Labuan atas segala pengalaman, pendidikan, persahabatan dan keindahan yang pernah engkau berikan. Labuan, Mutiara Laut China Selatan, tetap dalam ingatan.

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WINNERS FOR #MYLABUANSTORY: Photo Category

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Consolation Prize Winners (Photo Category) - @redzuankassim90 - @shahree7 - @sesat_in_malaysia - @muhamaddaniramdani_ - @ekasumadji - @tonymdy - @mohamadfarizam

Gaya Special Feature: Muar

MUAR,

The Royal Town of

JOHOR

Te x t b y A I NA NA B I H A H

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Images by LENSA MUAR

Known as one of the best culinary destinations in Johor, this humble town is comparable to a diamond in a rough due to its underrated reputation among locals. In fact, it seems that Muar is home to various attractions for city dwellers and tourists to enjoy a more quaint and laidback atmosphere.

Formally called Bandar Maharani Bandar Diraja, it was declared as Johor’s Royal Town by the current ruler of Johor His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Baginda Al-Mutawakkil Alallah Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj back on 5 February 2012.

When we talk about Muar, we are not only talking about the town because it also actually a district within the state of Johor that possesses ancient Malay heritage comparable to the golden age of Melaka Sultanate with legends such as Hikayat Malim Deman (Malim Deman’s Tale) and Lembing Awang Pulang ke Dayang (The Return of Awang’s Spear to Dayang). These days, the district - especially around town area - beams with updated charm in the form of hipster cafes and children parks. Let’s discover Muar’s own surprises, shall we?

WHERE TO GO… Nasuha Herbs & Spice Farm https://www.facebook.com/pg/HerbaMalaysia Awarded as the biggest Herbs and Spice Plantation by the Malaysian Book of Records, Nasuha Herbal and Spices farm is a 1,500-hectare cultivated paradise that does not just supply abundant spices and herbs, but also multiple activities for travellers. The farm has chalets, a dormitory, and other accommodation of its own, a spa and a recreational park where travellers can burn that extra calories off after dining at Nasuha Herbal Restaurant.

Although the restaurant accepts walk-in customers, the farm doesn’t, so call ahead and plan big, as they have tour packages (lunch included) for groups larger than 20 persons at MYR37 per head. Located only 45 minutes from Melaka, travellers can take Lebuh AMJ (Alor Gajah-Central Melaka-Jasin route) to reach Muar for an interesting road trip.

Muar River Cruise https://www.facebook.com/pg/rivercruiseinmuar/ The Muar River Cruise is the perfect choice for those who love being on boats or ships. Although this is is not a fancy cruise, this 40-minute tour allows travellers to take in the scenery of the town from Muar River and soak in its beauty without having to contend with traffic or brace through the hot sun. There is narration about the history and facts about Muar during the cruise, so keep your ears open for interesting and educational info about the Royal Town of Johor. The fares are MYR12 per adult for MYkad holders and MYR15 for non-Malaysians, while children are charged MYR6 each. The cruise operates every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.

Muar Cultural Walk committee and have an educational spin around town. There are also other attractions such as performances from local buskers and cultural shows, including street vendors that peddling home-made items in the evening from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight every Friday to Sunday. There are other murals scattered around Muar too, so be mindful whenever you pass by. One of the well-known murals is the ‘Loving Sisters’ by Russian mural artist Julia Volchkova, who drew the iconic Indian Boatman mural in Penang. Admirers of her work can now see a piece of her enchanting touches in Johor.

Call Mr. James @ Teo Peng Heng at +6 017 8895899 for more information.

Muar Walking Tour https://www.malaysia-traveller.com/muar-walking-tour. html While Muar Cultural Walk is an activity that celebrates the current and past-time of Muar that is arranged and showcased, Muar Walking Tour on the other hand is a self-initiated discovery leading to historical remains of the colonial and pre-war age, including Muar’s longstanding heritage. As written by the Malaysian Traveller (https:// www.malaysia-traveller.com/muar-walking-tour.html), this seven-kilometre trail through Peter Street shows you the best historical gems of Muar that you can discover by foot, so lace up and prepare to step back in time.

Muar Cultural Walk https://www.facebook.com/pg/laluanbudayamuar For those seeking selfie opportunities should follow the Muar Cultural Walk, arguably the most Instagram-worthy route in Muar. Rows and rows of murals are painted at the back of the commercial buildings, making the back alley bursting with creativity and urban zest. Aesthetically pleasing three-dimensional artworks such as the old Muar cinema and satay stall beautifully complement the pre-war architecture that exude nostalgia. Contact the

The “Satay Stall ” 3D art mural in Muar Cultural Walk is known to be a local hotspot.

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#ICYDK Jalan Peteri

» Tanjung Emas Recreational Park

Have a stroll at this park for some peace and quiet, or stare out to the majestic river that stretches out to the Straits of Malacca. Try out Muar River Cruise for a different but memorable perspective of the town. » Masjid Jamek Sultan Ibrahim and Masjid Sultan Ismail Initially a wooden madrasa built in 1888, it was eventually converted into the iconic blue-hued Western-meetsMiddle Eastern-influenced Masjid Jamek Sultan Ibrahim in 1925 to commemorate Sultan Sir Ibrahim’s then 35-year rule. Seven decades later, the sister mosque that replicates the architecture of the original was built across the river in Tanjung Agas and named Masjid Sultan Ismail as a tribute to Sultan Ismail who succeeded Sultan Ibrahim. From afar, these two mosques look grand as they stand opposite of each other, separated by Muar River. » Royal Resting Place This well-maintained edifice looks like a flashback from the 60’s with early modernist architecture that emphasised boxy structures and rigid symmetrical lines. » Sultan Abu Bakar Building This marvelous-looking blue building that sports colonial architecture houses local government offices.

Top:‘Loving Sisters’ by Russian mural artist Julia Volchkova; Middle: Masjid Sultan Ismail in Tangkak, right across Muar is said to be an indentical mosque that mirrors Masjid Jamek Sultan Ibrahim; Bottom left: Cafe 434 fragrant coffee that is served in their own iconic cups; Bottom right: Mee Bandung Central has been a longstanding local favourite for years.

Aiming to push Muar as a UNESCO World Heritage Site similar to Malaysia’s Melaka and George Town, Lensa Muar passionately documents Muar’s residents, history, food, scenery and buildings. Find out more about Lensa Muar by checking out https://www. facebook.com/LensaMuar/ or call +6 017 785 0265 or email to lensamuar@gmail.com.

Jalan Maharani » Muar Royal Customs and Excise Building Built in 1909, this building has a steeple to indicate Victorian influence over its architecture. » Old shophouses Make a quick detour at the old shophouses along the street and bring home local produce such as dried seafood as you turn back time when exploring the row of century-old commercial buildings.

Jalan Yahya

» Muar Clock Tower

The still-functioning clock tower in the middle of the street is Muar’s most prominent landmarks, embellished with white and neutral paint, complementing the sunny blue sky.

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WHAT TO EAT… Mee Bandung Central Muar https://www.facebook.com/FuadBandungCentral/ Although the location is slightly out of the town centre, Mee Bandung Central enjoys a huge number of footfalls due to its reputation as one of Muar’s culinary holy grails.

The store operates from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., but it only serves Mee Bandung in the afternoon, so travellers are advised to visit around that time. Patience is also needed when visiting this stall because the queue could be long. However, the wait is guaranteed to be worth it!

Sai Kee Coffee 434 https://www.facebook.com/pg/muar434

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Founded in the 1950s, Sai Kee’s 434 coffee is now a household name in Malaysia. Fans of this brand can have a taste of 434 coffee right at the source by visiting Cafe 434 located along Jalan Maharani. Painted in bright yellow, travellers are bound to be smitted by this cafe with its unique and rustic Norwegian-inspired interior. The cafe’s specialties include the Elephant Coffee, Original 434 Coffee and the Monalisa Coffee. The prices are reasonable and the aromatic coffees are deep with flavours, which is why patrons could never get enough of them.

Gluttony Street Muar One of the oldest culinary attractions in Muar is the Gluttony Street. Called in many names and terms, this street’s charming atmosphere remains the same throughout the years. The one in Muar dates back from 1952 and since has been the go-to food spot for local Chinese society. Located along Jalan Haji Abu, the highlights are fried oysters, pork satay, chwee kueh (water rice cakes) and the ever classic herbal tea to knock off the midday heat. The selling of food begins in late afternoon and ends by 8:00 p.m., perfect for those seeking early dinner.

it operates every day except Tuesday. With the price tag of MYR0.70 per skewer, travellers may indulge as many as their tummies could fill.

WHERE TO STAY… Pop Chuco Art Gallery Homestay https://www.facebook.com/POPChucoHomestay-661500280531731/ One of the most intriguing lodging options in Muar would have to be PopChuco Art Gallery Homestay.

This art gallery cum cafe also provides accommodation, with the concept of shared space experience. Even its exterior oozes with hip, local artistic charms with bright paints and abstract murals. Charges are applied per head, starting from MYR85 for two persons to MYR210 for six persons. Located near the town centre on Jalan Othman, sightseeing by foot would be a breeze.

PPT Muar Hotel http://pptmuarhotel.gbs2u.com/bd/index3. asp?userid=80938593&idno=1 As one of the few container hotels in Johor, PPT Muar strikes the most attention with contrasting coloured containers and block-red roof, unlike any other hotels that travellers have seen. All rooms, are equipped with modern amenities and flat screen television sets. The rates are affordable, starting from MYR98 for a Single Room, MYR128 for Standard Master and all the way to MYR231 for Executive Suites. Guests are invited to bask in its picturesque interior at the centre of the hotel.

Breakfast Satay in Muar https://www.facebook.com/ZZ-SatayWarisan-334600226686838/ ZZ Satay Warisan Muar is one of the most popular spots in Muar to have breakfast. Unlike in other places that serve this smoky and juicy delicacy only in the evenings, satay is served as a breakfast staple along with other iconic dishes like nasi lemak and roti canai. Located on Majidi Street, the stall opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at 2:45 p.m.;

PPT Container Hotel’s facade is strikingly unique and hip, perfect for trendy guests and curious visitors.

Destinations

Unmissable West Sumatera,

The Land of the Minangkabau Te x t & I m a g e s b y E D J U N A I D I A B U B A K A R

West Sumatera is the homeland of the Minangkabau and its Adat Perpatih and Adat Temenggung. Its cultural heritage transcends many parts of Nusantara (Malay Archipelago), stretching from the island of Java in Indonesia to neighbouring countries like Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei through its distinctive lifestyle, accents and

savoury dishes. Even at the far southern Indonesian provinces like East Nusa Tenggara, the influences of West Sumatera are evident such as the Manggarai houses in Flores and the dialects spoken in Sumba and Sumbawa. Padang-themed restaurants can be found in almost in all provinces and islands across Indonesia.

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West Sumatera is a land blessed with natural wonders ranging from its mountains and valleys, rivers and lakes, as well as islands and beaches.

Its compelling natural landscapes are preserved through time and remain steadfast despite the strong wave of modernisation.

The rich culture and enduring landscapes of West Sumatera inspired literature works throughout the ages, even before the independence of Indonesia. Hamka – an Indonesian ulama (Islamic scholar), novelist, philosopher and political activist – is renowned for his masterpieces Tenggelamnya Kapal van der Wijck (The Sinking of Van Der Wijck) and Di Bawah Lindungan Ka’bah (Under the Protection of Ka’bah) both used West Sumatra as its background, physically and culturally.

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West Sumatera is also the homeland of Rumah Gadang, the unique Minangkabau houses characterised mainly by its buffalo hornlike roof structure, believed to help the building withstand earthquakes and strong winds. The traditional principle of Minangkabau architecture prevails until today and remains strong.

Beginning May 2018, the Minangkabau Airport Rail Link known as KA Minangkabau Express plies between Minangkabau International Airport to Padang city centre five times a day passing through Tabing and Duku stations.

Top: Japanese Caves in Bukittinggi; Bottom: View of Sianok Canyon.

Bukittinggi Situated in the Minangkabau Highlands and about three-hour drive from Minangkabau International Airport; Bukittinggi is located about 900 metres above sea level and receives rainfall almost every day, making the climate cooler compared to the other parts of West Sumatera. The drive to Bukittinggi via Padangpanjang passes by majestic mountains like Mount Singgalang and Mount Marapi. Not to be confused with the one on Java island, Mount Marapi in West Sumatera is an active volcano that is still very much unknown to many tourists.

The highlight of any trip to Bukittinggi is the visit to Panorama Park, where travellers can witness the beauty of Sianok Canyon and to experience walking into the historical and intriguing Japanese Caves. Alternatively, Sianok Canyon can also be accessed by walking down along the Janjang Saribu (One Thousand Steps) at The Great Wall of Koto Gadang.

Other than that, travellers can visit the historical Fort de Kock, The House of Bung Hatta, The Palace of Bung Hatta, Jam Gadang, Bukittinggi Zoo and the famous Limpapeh Bridge that connects Fort de Kock and Bukittinggi Zoo. Bukittinggi is also famous for tapioca chips and crackers. A visit to Sanjai Ummi Aufa Hakim, which is one of the shops that produces a great number of flavoured chips and crackers, offering travellers the chance to learn and see how tapioca chips are produced, turning the visit into something educational.

Another item that travellers should not miss when being in Bukittinggi is nasi kapau, which is the fattier and spicier version of a Minangkabau meal. The rice can be accompanied by succulent dishes like dendeng balado (thinly sliced dried, fried and spiced meat), dendeng batokok (thinly sliced crispy meat), beef or chicken rendang, gulai tunjang (cattle feet tendons cooked in rich, spicy, coconut milk gravy), gulai tambusu (cattle intestines cooked in rich, spicy, coconut milk gravy), gulai banak (bovine brains cooked in rich, spicy, coconut milk gravy), or ikan batalua (gestating Java barb fish cooked in coconut milk gravy). However, the main dish that should come together with nasi kapau is gulai kapau (the mixture of coconut gravy from various dishes).

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Batusangkar Batusangkar is known for the Great Palace of Pagaruyung, once served as the residence of past rulers of ancient Pagaruyung kingdom. The architecture of the palace sports traditional Minangkabau Rumah Gadang vernacular, but incorporates a number of uncommon elements such as the creation of the structure to be three storeys high and larger halls compared to the typical rumah gadang. Although the kingdom of Pagaruyung no longer exists and there is no more royal family residing the palace, this palace serves as an important homage to the great

Clockwise from top left: Delicious dishes served at the restaurant called Rumah Makan Sawah Laman in Batusangkar; The pretty village of Pariangan; The facade of Rumah Makan Sawah Laman; The Great Palace of Pagaruyung; The tranquil scenery of Pandai Sikek Village in Padangpanjang.

kingdom that once ruled West Sumatera until the time when every member of the royal family were murdered during Padri War in 1815. Today, the palace is preserved as a reminder and has now become one of the most important tourism attractions in West Sumatra that tells the story of the perished kingdom.

About two kilometres away from the Palace is Silinduang Bulan Palace, a smaller palace that stores antiques, old furniture, artefacts and heirlooms of Pagaruyung kingdom. Although smaller, it is worth visiting for travellers to admire the intricate artistic detailing of the palace.

Rumah Makan Sawah Laman is situated not far from Silinduang Bulan Palace, along the road back to Padang as it crosses through vast paddy fields. Other than its great hospitality, this restaurant offers full Minangkabau experiences from the way the Minang people invite their guests to the house for meals, to the pantun (poetry recitation) and seloka (humour) before savouring the meal.

This is the place where travellers can

experience dining like a true Minang: using hands while sitting on the floorboard covered with mengkuang (woven screwpine leaf ) mats. This restaurant also serves up interesting local delicacy, lemang tapai (sticky rice taken with cold fermented black rice).

At the foot of Mount Marapi in Batusangkar lies one of the oldest Minangkabau settlements, considered as one of world’s 15 most beautiful villages.

Quaint and charming, this old village named Pariangan located between in a valley between mountains is where Minangkabau culture began. A river of hot spring water from under the volcanic mountain flows through the village. Amongst the new brick-andzinc houses inside the village are several archaeological sites, a beautiful old mosque and a number of rumah gadang in their original form. From the peak of Puncak Kawa – where the heritage trail begins – the view is picturesque and unforgettable.

Before leaving Batusangkar, travellers should not miss the opportunity to enjoy Kawa Daun, a traditional drink produced from coffee leaves, and Kiniko Café was recommended to us due to its classic setting and picture perfect surroundings. The beverage is made from dried coffee leaves boiled in hot water and poured into sections of bamboo and taken with a cup made

of dried coconut shell. Famous in Tabek Patah area, Kiniko Café has now expanded into food and other types of beverages.

Padangpanjang Padangpanjang is a small town between Bukittinggi and Padang. Most parts of this small town are on an elevation of almost 800 metres above sea level.

Dubbed as the Verandah of Mecca in West Sumatra, Padangpanjang has been known as a hub for Islamic education and missionary. In the days of old, children were sent to Padangpanjang to learn and equip themselves with knowledge of both Islam and civic studies. Today, Padangpanjang has the largest number of schools, universities and information centres.

Padangpanjang is also home to the Minangkabau Culture Documentation and Information Centre (formerly Museum Bustanil Arifin) founded by Bustanil Arifin, where travellers can learn more about the Minangkabau people through documents, photographs, books, custom dresses, artefacts belonging to the ancient kingdom of Pagaruyung, Minangkabau ancient texts, replicas of traditional musical instruments and interior architecture of Minangkabau houses. The main building of this centre pays homage to the splendid and grandiose Minangkabau style.

When in Padangpanjang, we recommend Rumah Makan & Restoran Pak Datuk Cadang Dumai to savour delicious Padang dishes.

Besides, travellers who are taken in by Minangkabau literature and poetry should visit Taufik Ismail Poetry House.

Travellers can check out Aie Angek Cottage if they wish to stay here.

Also located in Padangpanjang is Pandai Sikek Village, renowned for the production of the exquisite West Sumatran hand-woven local fabric using gold and silver threads called songket.

Traditionally, Pandai Sikek is one of the seven villages in West Sumatra where weaving skills have been handed down

for generations; the other villages are Pitalah and Sungayang (Tanah Datar), Silungkang (Sawahlunto), Kotagadang (Agam), Koto Nan Ampek, and Kubang (Limapuluh Kota). However these days, only Silungkang, Kubang and Pandai Sikek still retain this craft. Pandai Sikek is ahead of those three villages in continuing the tradition by spreading the skills to the larger community. As a result, the craftmanship from Pandai Sikek are finer and more diversified yet authentic, similar to those created centuries ago. There are many galleries and houses that display and sell songket but we recommend for travellers to head to Satu Karya Gallery.

Along the road in Padangpanjang, whether you are travelling from Bukittinggi or Padang, you are bound to stumble upon Anai Valley Waterfall.

Travellers should make a rest stop here to refresh and enjoy the tall waterfall during long journey between the two cities.

Padang Only about two hours away off-coast Padang, travellers can find a group of islands resembling the mini version of Raja Ampat, also known as the Raja Ampat of the West. A group comprising nine islands in total called Mandeh Islands is an archipelago nestled in the Carocok Tarusan Bay, south west of West Sumatra province overlooking the Indian Ocean. This archipelago is not yet famous among local tourists but now quickly become an off-the-beaten-path destination among foreign travellers due to its tranquillity and peaceful ambience.

When I say peaceful, it does not mean lacking in activities. All of the islands, some uninhabited, offer many attractions for both solo travellers and family outings. One of the islands that offer fun-filled beach experience is Setan (Sutan) Island that is blessed with white sandy beach with hints of pink sand, making it suitable for family picnic, strolling, beach bumming and leisure swimming. Other activities include snorkelling, fishing, banana boat- and speedboat-riding.

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Across the Mandeh Islands is Sironjong Gadang island that has clear water with rocky beaches that is perfect for snorkelling. Next to it is a smaller one called Sironjong Ketek, famous for cliff jumping. There are two platforms of different heights for cliff jumping here: 5 metres and 15 metres respectively.

Travellers can then rinse off the salt water at Gemuruh River in Kapo-kapo Island. The journey to Gemuruh River is enthralling because travellers will cruise along the green and healthy mangrove forest that seems like a great fortress protecting to what lies within KapoKapo Island rainforest. the mangrove river that leads to the waterfall seems like a pathway to an enchantingly magical land with such breathtaking view.

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In Padang city centre, travellers should check out the newly developed Masjid Raya Sumatera Barat (Grand Mosque of West Sumatra), the largest mosque in West Sumatra, and the second largest mosque in Sumatra. The most distinctive feature of the mosque is the form of its highly pointed four-corner roof and structure, which is a contemporary interpretation of rumah gadang.

According to minangtourism.com, the whole architecture of the mosque, designed by local architect Rizal Muslimin, is inspired by three elements: the spring waters, the crescent moon,

and Minangkabau’s rumah gadang. Its design symbolises the integration of Islamic values into Padang’s authentic lifestyle. The frame of the roof is constructed using steel pipes, supported by four curving concrete columns.

The design of the mosque does not compromise safety and takes into account the mosque’s geographical location of West Sumatera, hence able to withstand earthquakes.

In Padang, we recommend Rumah Makan Lamun Ombak for travellers to savour great Padang dishes.

Top: Boats moored along the beach in Setan Island, part of Mandeh Islands archipelago; Masjid Raya Sumatera Barat in Padang; Anai Valley in Padangpanjang.

Gaya Travel Magazine team expresses our heartfelt gratitude to the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Malaysia and the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia for making the writer’s trip to West Sumatra possible. For more information about West Sumatra, please browse www.indonesia.travel.

Ir. H. Djuanda No. 46 Bandung, West Java 40115 Indonesia (62) 22 87 330330 fourpoints.bandung@fourpoints.com www.fourpointsbandung.com

PERFECT STAY FOR LEISURE & BUSINESS BANDUNG Located in Dago, the heart of Bandung tourist sites. Everything you need is available within walking distance. There is shopping areas, restaurants, and nature attractions nearby. Whether you’re coming for leisure or business, Four Points by Sheraton Bandung is the great choice for you and provides everything that matters to you the most.

Hotels & Resorts

An Effortless Stay at

Sunway Velocity Hotel Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K E R I I m a g e s b y S U N WA Y V E L O C I T Y H O T E L

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Sunway Velocity Hotel is well-run and wellpositioned property.

When it opened about a year ago, the hotel filled the gap in Cheras hospitality scene that seems to be in desperate need for fresh properties. It is part of Sunway Group’s MYR4 billion integrated city development plan; when the entire project finishes, the area will boast premier retail offerings, office towers, serviced residences, an upcoming medical centre and a sprawling two-acre V park.

Gaya Travel team recently stayed at Sunway Velocity Hotel, and below are our thoughts regarding it…

Location Remarkably convenient. Since the hotel is part of transit-oriented development in Cheras, accessibility is key. The hotel is merely a short walk from two underground Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations – Maluri and Cochrane – connecting travellers to various popular spots, including Bukit Bintang, Pasar Seni, Merdeka Square, and KL Sentral, the capital’s transport hub. Nearby, there is also a Maluri Light Rapid Transit (LRT) station servicing the Ampang Line, allowing guests to easily reach Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC), one of Kuala Lumpur’s main venues for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE), including weddings. Plenty of shopping options are literally right on your doorstep too, for instance Sunway Velocity Mall situated right next door and accessible via the hotel’s ground or fifth level, as well as MyTown Shopping Centre and IKEA Cheras, both taking only 10 to 15 minutes’ walk.

Rooms All 351 rooms are homely and practical. They invite guests to relax, thanks to the calming interior colour scheme comprising grey and green combined with natural lighting from large windows. The bed is large, with fantastically comfortable duck feather pillows and sumptuous linens. Millennials would appreciate the well-placed plug points for charging devices. Though the bathroom only has a walk-in shower, it comes with expected amenities like personal care toiletries, including hair dryer and vanity mirror. An additional plus about hotel is the thoughtful inclusion of wall-mounted grab bar and built-in seat in the bathroom to make it more accessible for guests with limited mobility.

Food & Beverage Kaffeinate is the hotel’s express café serving à la carte snacks daily from 6:30am – 9:00pm, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in ample daylight and tranquil view of the surrounding greenery and Wong Loo Sen See Chee Choong Temple. At breakfast, guests can expect a decent continental buffet ranging from Asian delicacies such as nasi lemak and congee to fresh pastries from a local bakery, which go perfectly well with the café’s hand-crafted coffees. Have room for more? Well, this is Malaysia after all, where good food is everywhere – guests can simply head straight to Sunway Velocity Mall where more dining options are abound.

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Service & Facilities There’s an unobtrusive yet professional team working in the background, ensuring the place runs smoothly, while the wait staff are friendly and attentive. On another note, the hotel features a fitness centre on its rooftop, and it is accessible 24/7 should busy guests prefer to exercise in the wee hours. Those who prefer to swim, on the other hand, can jump into the infinity pool, said to be one of the most beautiful swimming pools in the area. Be sure to make use of the complimentary scheduled city-wide shuttle service to Bukit Bintang shopping area and Sunway Putra Mall to experience more of the city when staying at Sunway Velocity Hotel.

Rates The rates begin at MYR230 per room per night (room only). Guests of the hotel stand to collect Sunway PALS points (membership sign-up required, terms and conditions apply) for every booking.

For room reservations and enquiries, please call +603 2726 3991, email svkl.reservations@sunwayhotels.com or book directly at https://velocity.sunwayhotels.com/.

Hotels & Resorts

Go Easy on the Pocket, with

Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K E R I I m a g e s b y PAC I F I C E X P R E S S H O T E L C H I N AT O W N

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Accommodation, without doubt, takes up the biggest expense when you travel, besides transportation. However, with careful planning, lowering the budget for places to stay might actually be easier than thought, especially with the ever-growing pocket-friendly hotels around the world. One such property is the Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown.

Owned and operated by the Pacific Regency Hotel Group, this property marks the Group’s second venture into the select service segment following the success of its first branch, the Pacific Express Hotel Central Market.

Officially launched in late September 2018, and Gaya Travel had the opportunity to experience the hotel’s hospitality. Read on to find out about our thoughts regarding the hotel...

Location Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown resides within the historic Fui Chiu Association Building at one of the oldest areas in Kuala Lumpur that pulses with glorious stories. It is conveniently close to plenty of attractions, and in fact, stands opposite to the entrance of Chinatown (Petaling Street), where guests can explore in search of free museums, hidden cafes and pubs, including bargain shopping. The hotel is also a mere walking distance to the Central Market, Merdeka Square, KL City Gallery, Masjid Jamek, Textile Museum and KL City Gallery. There are excellent public transport links nearby too: the bus stop is just outside while train stations connecting to the other areas of Klang Valley are five to ten minutes’ walk away. Unfortunately, there is no parking spaces on site; but in such a location, personal vehicles can be rendered unnecessary.

Rooms There are four categories to choose from the hotel’s 211 rooms, namely Standard, Superior, Deluxe and Premier. All are modestly furnished, rather large in size and absolutely comfortable to stay in, especially after long hours of exploring the city. The Dreamland beds are also of good quality and the bathrooms are well-appointed with powerful rain showers.

The rooms are also sound-proofed so that the bustling area’s night-time noise can be shut out. On top of these, the hotel has a room fit for those who are physically challenged as well, since it is designed with wheelchair accessibility in mind.

Food & beverage The hotel’s only F&B outlet, Oochid Bistro, opens daily from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and serves substantial à la carte menu comprising Asian delicacies along with fresh fruits, juices, teas and coffees. However, should guests feel like varying their gastronomic options, there is a wealth of choices around the neighbourhood, including open-till-late food stalls and the popular cosy cafe called the Merchant’s Lane (https://www.facebook.com/merchantslane) that offer invigorating East-meets-West light meals.

Service & Facilities The service at the hotel, be it during check-in or responding to enquiries, is attentive and seamless. In fact, the staff would go out of the way to orientate guests, making them feel warmly welcomed at the property. High-speed Wi-Fi access is provided to all guests, and on every floor there are ironing facilities and water dispenser.

Rates The rack rates begin from MYR98++ per room, which is remarkably cheap considering the size of the room and location. The hotel is indeed one that has been done well and thoughtfully.

For bookings, please visit www.chinatownkl.com or call +6 03 2332 7713.

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Hotels & Resorts

Discovering Quintessential Kuala Lumpur with

Cosmo Hotel

Te x t b y A I N A N A B I H A H Images by AINA NABIHAH AND COSMO HOTEL

“We are not makers of history, we are made by history.” - Martin Luther King, Jr. 106

Kuala Lumpur is known for its vast and progressive development. With unending days of improvements and construction, it is easy to lose sight of the historic vestiges and legacies that once gave identity to this capital city. To understand how Kuala Lumpur came into being and become what it is today, Cosmo Hotel has created a new tour package called the City Discovery Package for history buffs and general adventurers to truly experience the ‘real side’ Kuala Lumpur. Guided by award-winning independent tour guide Jane Rai and the hotel’s staffs, this tour takes guests to Kuala Lumpur’s significant attractions, which turn out to be eye-opening to say the least.

The hotel Prior to the tour, Gaya Travel Magazine team first checked into our room in one clear Saturday morning. At first sight, Cosmo Hotel’s facade appear imposing, extending high into the sky next to the other buildings that dominate the area. But as we stepped into the hotel, we were welcomed by an air of cosiness. The radiant lighting and plush, contemporary neoclassical-inspired interior of what was once an edifice containing offices piqued our interest. The rooms are designed to relaxation and stimulate at the same time, with bold carpeting and patterned wallpapers.

Complete with modern necessities, the hotel is perfect for a business visit or staycation.

Our lunch at the hotel’s food and beverage outlet Café Mint consisted of multiple choices of hearty, filling and succulent dishes such as rib-eyed steak and chicken chop. This outlet is a crisp and suave looking restaurant, minimalistic with two ostentatiously hung chandeliers. The breakfast and dinner buffet served at Café Mint are respectively impressive with abundant choice and sizeable portions.

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The tour After breakfast, we were given a short brief on our trip to KL Forest Eco Park, also known as Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, located on Jalan Raja Chulan, a mere 10-minute walk (2 kilometres) away from the hotel. Known as the green lung of Kuala Lumpur, this forest reserve is a family friendly spot for those in need of refuge amid verdant tropical greenery right smack in the centre of Kuala Lumpur, making this park the only forest reserve in the world that exists in the middle of a metropolis. You are recommended to follow the 200-metre long canopy walk, which gives you the chance to view Kuala Lumpur’s concrete jungle from a different angle while healthily sweating it out.

After exploring the KL Forest Eco Park with the park’s own guide, we walked back to the hotel via the bustling thoroughfare called Lebuh Ampang that is known for its quaint collection of hip, sophisticated cafes and specialty shops. Along the way, we laid our eyes on a pretty mural on a side of a shoplot, including the view of the charmingly colonial St. John Cathedral with the soaring KL Tower as its backdrop.

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Soon after, we were introduced to an ex-journalist, Jane Rai, who captivatingly shared her colourful story about the historically significant area of Kuala Lumpur, as well as her experience as a licensed tour guide.

We started walking right across the hotel, at the banks of the newly beautified confluence of Gombak and Klang rivers, where Masjid Jamek is located. The beautification is part of the government’s River of Life project to turn the rivers, into the pride of Kuala Lumpur because the city traces its beginnings from them, thus bear strong connection to the founding of Kuala Lumpur. Masjid Jamek is known as one of the oldest mosques in Malaysia, designed by Arthur Benison Hubback and was officiated by the then Sultan of Selangor in 1909. Jane explained how the plot of land close to the mosque was once a Muslim burial site, and then the remains were required to be relocated to a newer site on Jalan Ampang. She highlighted the importance of the confluence as the point where Kuala Lumpur began, including the banks of Klang river, where Yap Ah Loy (a key historical figure who helped in the development of Kuala Lumpur) built his house around 161 years ago. Now the river bank is an urbanised and trendy venue filled with youthful attractions and mesmerising fountain and light shows.

We continued our walk by heading to the back lane of the popular Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman (TAR), where we feasted our eyes and taste buds at the night market that sells a multitude of affordable good and wares, including snacks.

This place teems with shops like Bak Tailor that handmakes traditional Malay clothes like baju Melayu (Malay male

set of top and trousers) since the 1980s and stores selling handmade songkok (a close-fitting Malay male rimless cap with a flat top). Next to them is a humble and aged barbershop manned by experienced barbers known to have their very own set of customers who follow them like a cult.

We subsequently stumbled upon several pre-war shophouses and buildings that sport art deco design such as the Coliseum Cinema, which has been operational since 1921. These days, the cinema primarily plays Indian movies.

The comestibles During the walk, we managed to sample some local food at selected eateries, one of them was Jai Hind Restaurant (+60 03-2692 0041) that serves delectable Punjabi cuisine and desserts. The store is vegetarian so Muslims can be rest assured that the food can be consumed with peace of mind. As we returned to the back lane of Jalan TAR, we stopped by to have a sample of apam balik (Malaysian sweet pancake with peanut and sugar fillings) that was fresh off the pan. We then quenched our thirst at the 97-year old Coliseum Café and Hotel (http://www.coliseum1921.com/).

This establishment’s bar and interior have not changed much since 1921, and it is famous for serving classic bestsellers like steaks and signature mocktail (non-alcoholic and refreshing mixed beverage) called Gunner B, which is a must-try.

Before ending the night, Jane made sure that we savoured the South Indian version of a good dinner at Saravanaa Bhavan Vegetarian restaurant (http://www.saravanabhavan.com/).

You should order the drink called the Three Flavoured Lassi, which explodes with tangy, sweet flavour and a slight kick, to wash down the finger-licking meal.

Conclusion Cosmo Hotel’s three-hour City Discovery Package tour is definitely an interesting approach to further learn about Kuala Lumpur’s history and be immersed in the city’s local urban environment and day-to-day living. With the combination of insider information, lip-smacking food, and exposure to the quintessential aspects of the city, it is hard to simply move on from the experience. The tour costs RM250 per person, which is separate from the room rate.

For overnight stay that is part of the City Discovery Package, Cosmo Hotel charges RM288 nett per room night inclusive of breakfast, set lunch, and dinner for two persons, including a flexible check in time and full 28-hour stay, complete with complimentary access to the gym and in-room Wi-Fi. www.cosmohotelkl.com T: +6 03 2030 1888 E: info@cosmohotelkl.com or reservation@cosmohotelkl.com

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Award-winning amenities. World-class shopping. Elegant settings for business meetings and conferences. One World Hotel is the ultimate one-stop destination for those seeking an exceptional five-star experience like no other. In fact, we’re not just about accommodating your every need, we’re also making a big impression on our guests.

Find us on

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Hotels & Resorts

Renaissance Lucknow Hotel is a three-year old, five-star lifestyle deluxe hotel, strategically located in Gomti Nagar, the largest planned residential colony in India. It commands attention as the tallest hotel in the city, offering excellent Indian hospitality that revolves on the central idea that the guest is God, hence should be treated accordingly.

Though the exterior is unmistakably contemporary, the hotel’s special characteristics are drawn from the soul of Lucknow, the city where it is based, which is the capital of Uttar Pradesh in India. Dubbed as the city of Nawabs (titular native governors who led lavish lifestyle during the time when the Moguls ruled India beginning late 16th century up until early 18th century; then endured until the British seized control of Lucknow in the middle of 19th century), this immersive ‘city of many splendours’ is a street food haven. Jaded travellers will be quick to realise that Lucknow is a destination that remains authentic and does not feel touristy.

Bright and efficient As guests step into Renaissance Lucknow Hotel’s airy lobby, they are bound to be wowed by the space’s brightness, courtesy of the large floor-to-ceiling glass panels that permit generous amounts of natural light. It seems that one of the hotel’s defining design principles is to let in as much daylight as possible to its public spaces and guestrooms to enliven its interiors and uplift guests’ mood.

Though the hotel has only 111 rooms, all floors are efficiently served by four fast elevators, so guests do not need to wait long to get into their rooms even when the hotel is full. The rooms are remarkably sharp and cladded in polished marble. Each room comes with spacious bathroom that include handy magnifying mirror, undeniably useful for shaving closely or putting on make-up. For extra privacy, the bathroom’s transparent shower glass panels can be made opaque at the flip of the ‘Smart Glass’ switch located on the same wall where the magnifying mirror is attached. The bedding is plush too, promising restful slumber. In the evenings, the hotel’s efficient yet unobtrusive housekeeping staff delivers turndown service, turning the room snugger. In short,

Renaissance Lucknow Hotel Compendium of Well Curated Confections in Lucknow

Te x t b y J U H A N K A M A R U D D I N Images by RENAISSANCE LUCKNOW HOTEL

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Renaissance Lucknow Hotel’s interiors and service live up to the expectations of today’s astute travellers.

Food and beverage options Besides possessing outstanding service and posh, clean design, another hallmark of Renaissance Lucknow Hotel is its extensive food and beverage options dished out by the hotel’s two food and beverage outlets: the all-day dining restaurant aptly called L14, located on the hotel’s 14th floor (of course); and the elegant dinner-only outlet named Sepia on the third floor.

L14 is a light-filled and smart-looking space with expansive windows overlooking the Gomti River. The space is bedecked with naturally muted and earthen tones, perhaps to be in harmony with the red sandstone material used extensively in the construction of Ambedkar Memorial Park that can be seen yonder, or to simply soothe diners’ senses so that they can calmingly savour their meals. Honestly, I enjoy having breakfast at L14 while taking in the view of the riverfront and Gomti Nagar surroundings early morning, especially over delicious made-to-order eggs benedict.

Sepia, on the other hand, opens only for dinner and serves what locals refer to as dastarkhan, a traditional space and meal setting where food is served in a prescribed way that elevates guests’ dining experience. Comfortably accommodates up to 78 diners at any one time, Sepia is a fine-dining establishment where guests can indulge in Lucknow’s specialities that are part of a local culinary heritage called Awadhi cuisine – mainly influenced from Mughal cooking techniques with Northern Indian cooking pattern – without having to venture out into the city. The cuisine is known to have existed since the times of the Sultanate of Delhi (early 13th until 16th century) even before the Mughals when the city and surrounding region was still called Awadh. Sepia’s flattering dishes such as Nalli Nihari (flavourful lamb-based dish slowly cooked overnight in lamb stock) and Murg Korma (chicken cooked in rich Mughlai gravy) offer the chance for guests to dine opulently like the Nawabs.

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For pre- or post-prandial drinks, guests should head to the fabulously cosy Sky Bar on 16th floor, which opens from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. This spot is fast becoming popular in Lucknow for people to unwind indoors or al fresco from evening until night, especially when the weather is cooler and drier beginning October until March. Be sure to try out Sky Bar’s refreshing cocktails and mocktails served up by experienced bartenders while taking in the memorable bird’seye view of Lucknow. Sky Bar can hold up to 200 persons, ideal for intimate gatherings and parties.

Other facilities The hotel’s 22,000-foot squared Ren Garden is where weddings take place at the hotel, a space that can be converted into a spectacular venue for weddings or large-scale events that can accommodate up to 1,500 people. The hotel also has indoor space complete with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment.

Renaissance Lucknow Hotel has the one and only infinity pool to be found in the city, which opens from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., located on the same level as Sky Bar, affording guests with panoramic view of Lucknow while swimming.

Another way for guests to remain in shape is to access the hotel’s compact and cutting-edge 24-hour gym, located on 15th floor, one level below the infinity pool and Sky Bar. Exploring Lucknow with Renaissance Lucknow Hotel To make the most of their trip to Lucknow, guests of Renaissance Lucknow Hotel are highly recommended to utilise the hotel’s Navigator service, which offer experiences that are unique to the destination.

One place that guests should visit to understand Lucknow is Hazratganj , a shopping area filled with the city’s hidden gems like the almost 160-year old perfume shop called Sugandhco (https://scentkart.com/), Royal Cafe (www.royalcafe.in) that

sells scrumptious popular snack called basket chaat, Ada Designer Chikan studio (https://www.adachikan.com/) that showcases exquisite handmade embroidered fabrics called chikankari, and popular street food like the souffle-like malai makan and the satisfyingly sweet kulfi and ras gula. Guests are sure to have a rewarding trip when they visit Hazratganj based on the Navigator’s recommendations.

All lovers of heritage buildings who stay at Renaissance Lucknow Hotel should also visit Bara Imambara (http:// uptourism.gov.in/post/bara-imambara), a complex comprising ornate arches, ramparts, mosque and hall with excellent acoustics purposely built to commemorate the fallen grandson of Prophet Muhammad, Hussein. It was completed in 1797 A.D. under the patronage of Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, the Governor who moved the capital of Awadh region from Faizabad to Lucknow in 1775. Architecture lovers are bound to be awed by the entire complex’s grandeur, ingenuity and timelessness, including the imposing gateway that can be seen in the distance called Rumi Darwaza. To enter this site, guests need to wear modestly with full length clothes (no sleeveless tops, shorts or revealing attires are allowed).

What else you can do in Lucknow? Renaissance Lucknow Hotel Navigator can also arrange for guests to visit the following unique places: • Explore the grounds of La Martiniere College (http:// www.lamartinierelucknow.org/) to witness the students’ life in school and pay homage to the founder of the college General Claude Martin, a Lyon-born French adventurer who amassed great wealth while serving under Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah and his son Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula by visiting his grave at the basement of a neo-classical palace called Constantia, which is part of La Martiniere College. General Martin is hailed as one of the city’s influential figures who helped turn Lucknow into an important city, especially after Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula moved the capital of Awadh to Lucknow from Faizabad.

• Have lunch at the ornate, boldly decorated and whimsical Cappucino Blast (https://www.facebook.com/ cappuccinoblastlucknow/), which claimed to be the oldest café in town and has been attracting the well and good since its inception for the last 19 years serving satiating westerninspired dishes like tacos and pizzas.

Conclusion Through Renaissance Lucknow Hotel’s strong sense of place and excellent service, the hotel enriches guests’ experience by living up to Lucknow’s splendour and sophistication, making it the ideal accommodation of choice among discerning travellers who want to connect to the city’s rich past and current prosperity in a classy manner.

Website: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lkobrrenaissance-lucknow-hotel/

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Hotels & Resorts

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel: Bastion of Unexpected Delights Te x t b y J U H A N K A M A R U D D I N Images by RENAISSANCE BENGALURU RACE COURSE HOTEL

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Located in Bengaluru (formerly known as Bangalore), the capital city of the state of Karnataka and the Silicon Valley of India, the recently opened 276-key Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel is a confident, swanky, tony and contemporarily opulent hotel. Reflecting the ascendance of Bengaluru as one of India’s upcoming major economic hubs, the hotel is 50 minutes’ drive from Kempegowda International Airport and only five minutes’ drive from Bengaluru Central Railway Station.

Bengaluru’s ‘eternal spring’ weather has been attracting professionals and even corporations from India and the rest of the world, elevating the city’s stature as one of the country’s fastest growing metropolises, contributing over two-thirds of Karnataka’s gross domestic product (GDP).

The hotel offers fantastic views of Bengaluru’s central business district skyline, and just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Bangalore Turf Club. Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel exudes charisma as a contemporary five-star deluxe accommodation with a seductive, independent streak through offerings such as delectable dining options, inviting pool, and smart meeting spaces, including communal public areas with convenient power outlets to promote networking, syndication and socialising.

Classy and efficient Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel offers unconventional immersions to feed guests’ curiosity, fuel their imagination and excite their senses. Frequent lifestyle travellers who want to fill their stay with fresh and sharable eye-opening moments are bound to find the hotel appealing.

The hotel’s interiors are replete with strategically-placed experimental artworks in the form of unusual designs and thought-provoking motifs that allude to the nearby race course to amplify the hotel’s sense of place and incorporate Bengaluru’s exuberance all under one roof.

The rooms at the hotel sport classic look with whimsical touches and colours connoting luxury. All rooms

feature expansive windows to maximise natural light, guaranteeing brightness and cheerfulness to the interiors. The room’s efficient bathroom comes with amenities and deep, inviting sunken bathtub to soak away the stress and wariness of the day. Travellers who wish to gain exclusive access to the hotel’s Executive Lounge should opt for any of the hotel’s executive-level accommodations.

A restful night’s sleep is assured since the hotel provides Marriott Revive® Bedding system that includes plush custom duvets for totally restful sleep. As in other Renaissance Hotels throughout the world, guests can expect the customary turndown service that help them to retire more comfortably.

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Highlight During my stay at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel in November 2018, I was not only feted to an engaging bar ritual followed by an exclusive banquet dinner, but also an utterly astounding open air breakfast spread by the hotel’s catering team set in the middle of Bangalore Turf Club race course the next morning! The hotel clearly understands how to make its guests go ‘wow’. During my stay, the weather was cool and the skies were clear; Bengaluru enjoys a more-or-less pleasant weather yearround, especially between October and February, hence dining al fresco is like a national sport in this side of the world.

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Food and beverage options Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel team really knows how to put together a memorably classy, resplendent and jocund get-together sessions over sensuously appetising menu and equally uplifting drinks, simply for the purpose of fascinating and delighting guests, a fact not lost among organisers of meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE), besides independent business and leisure travellers.

As guests step into the hotel’s lobby, it is recommended that they first relish a cup of comforting masala chai (thick hot sweet tea with fresh cow’s milk and spices) at Cinnamon, a gourmet delicatessen serving specialities like homemade gelato waffwiches, freshly baked breads and alluring selection of pastries.

Further into the hotel lies the 153-seat Lush, a casual all-day dining restaurant featuring Indian and international staples that emphasise on consciously sourced ingredients and local artisanal produce. Speaking of Indian staple, guests should never forget to savour a rice meal with flavourful side dishes, including aromatic curry, served on banana leaf, which is as authentic and gratifying as a Southern Indian meal can get!

In the evenings, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel activates its lobby bar and lounges by converting them into atmospherically chic venues for guests and city residents to relax. Be sure to partake in the hotel’s signature Bar Ritual at the hip 59-seat R Bar (even though you are a teetotaller like yours truly) to indulge in innovative bespoke cocktails (and mocktails) concocted using locally crafted beverages.

Sprawling across 85 acres in the Central Business District, the Bangalore Turf Club (https://www.bangaloreraces. com/) is an institution. Other than absorbing the refreshing morning atmosphere of the race course and ogling at fine steeds, guests of Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel can also arrange with the Navigators to catch an exhilarating horse race.

Navigators (lifestyle concierges) are dedicated local neighbourhood experts who help Renaissance Hotels’ guests unearth the destination’s unique local gems only insiders know and leading guests to inimitable encounters that inspire compelling stories.

Other facilities The hotel offers a combined total of 12,680-foot squared space consisting of 2,893 square feet ‘The Turf ’ Ballroom, seven meeting rooms, and outdoor lawn, all backed up by talented catering team and planning services, making it ideal for spectacular weddings, social and corporate functions.

Pertinently, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel’s meetings package called R.E.N. Meetings (http://renaissance-

hotels.marriott.com/renmeetings) allows guests to go beyond traditional meetings by developing them into custom-curated and sensory-rich sessions.

The outdoor swimming pool (opens from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.), helps guests to stay fit and unwind while absorbing the incredible view. Alternatively, fitness-conscious guests can head to the hotel’s 24-hour fitness centre that boasts state-ofthe-art equipment. Those seeking to be pampered can head up to The SPA at the North wing on second floor for indulgent yet efficacious and invigorating wellness treatments.

Exploring Bengaluru

Tip: Due to high economic growth and population explosion, Bengaluru is notorious for its traffic congestion, so travellers are urged to allow 45 minutes to an hour (depending on distance and time of day, of course) to get from one place to another.

When staying at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, guests should explore Bengaluru by utilising the Navigator service, the hotel’s version of the modern ‘concierge.’

Begin your day by having breakfast at Konark Vegetarian Restaurant (http://konarkveg.in/), an establishment serving Southern Indian flavours and delicacies with sincere service and meticulous eye for hygiene.

Then learn about Bengaluru’s role as India’s hub for aerospace and aviation by visiting HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) Museum (http://hal-india.co.in/), part of the HAL Heritage Centre and Aero Space Museum, located within the premises of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The museum charts the growth and impressive journey of the Indian aviation industry, including HAL, for the last six decades.

Since India is rich with royal history, allocating an hour or two to admire the imposing yet homely Bangalore Palace (http:// www.bangalorepalace.net/) is a must. This palace – which was completed in 1878 and functioned as the summer palace for the Mysore royal family – preserves old regal opulence and represents the epitome of grand architecture and beauty in its time, earning it as one of Bengaluru’s most-visited attractions.

After walking and working up an appetite, whisk away to the High Ultra Lounge (http://www.highultralounge.com/) on top of World Trade Centre at Brigade Gateway to enjoy lunch comprising pan-Asian fusion dishes with a modern twist while enjoying the surrounding panorama through floor-toceiling windows. Attached to the lounge is the helicopter pad belonging to Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade

Gateway (https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/blrgssheraton-grand-bangalore-hotel-at-brigade-gateway/), which you might be able to access to appreciate the unobstructed view of Bengaluru from above.

Burn your calories afterwards by exploring M.G. Road, one of Bengaluru’s biggest commercial centres and busiest shopping areas. Buy special memorabilia and souvenirs at Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium (https://www.cauveryhandicrafts.net/) that sells authentic Karnataka handicrafts and accessories ranging from sandalwood and rosewood items to metal, bronze and textiles, all certified by the state government.

Break your walk around M. G. Road by resting and indulging in ice cream at Cornerhouse Ice Cream parlour (https://www. youtube.com/channel/UCUFZHvMm-NWpQ_tzHMfNx4A), an over 30-year old institution in Bengaluru. There are over eighteen ice cream flavours served such as sundaes, caramel, chocolate, fig and honey. Caffeine lovers should go for the sinful Cake-a-Mocha, a combination of coffee and chocolate flavours with scrumptious toppings.

End your day exploring Bengaluru by visiting The Bull Temple (Nandi Temple), one of the oldest temples in the city and home to the fourth largest Nandi statue in India.

This house of worship honours the mount of Lord Shiva, according to Hindu religious traditions. Travellers are sure to gain insights towards local Hindu beliefs and practices when visiting this temple, and learn more about Bengaluru society.

Conclusion Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel draws sophisticated patrons since the hotel delivers unexpectedly memorable experience, in line with Renaissance Hotel’s brand promise. As a result, guests become enriched, turning into ‘social discoverers’ who are curious, intrigued and actively engaged with the destination, culture, and heritage, as what truly meaningful travel ought to be… https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/blrbh-renaissancebengaluru-race-course-hotel/

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Hotels & Resorts

Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort: An Embodiment of Siem Reap’s Innovativeness Te x t b y J U H A N K A M A R U D D I N Images by CO URT YARD BY MARRIOT T SI EM REAP RESORT

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Marriott International debuts its first Courtyard by Marriott in Cambodia by opening Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort in January 2018, marking Marriott International’s first hotel and brand flagship in the country. The resort is 20 minutes’ drive from Siem Reap International Airport and a mere five-minute walk to the lively bars, cocktail lounges, international restaurants and vibrant clubs of Pub Street.

Showcasing modern Khmer architectural design, the resort is perfect for exploring Siem Reap, a bustling cultural haven of markets, artisans and museums. It even serves as the gateway to the UNESCO world heritage site of Angkor, 15 minutes’ drive away. The site spans over 400 kilometres and contains hundreds of temples and structures dating back to the era of Khmer Empire.

The most popular attractions are the majestic Angkor Wat, root-riddled Ta Prohm, and graceful multiple-faced Bayon.

Tip: For long-lasting memory, it is wise for guests to visit Angkor Wat during sunrise, then explore Ta Prohm and Bayon after breakfast. Taking the early morning tour of the temples allows guests to beat the crowd, which increases significantly as the day progresses.

Ambience As an exuberant and sharp property, Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort outlays a refreshing environment for guests to remain connected, productive

and balanced. Attentive, welcoming staff greets guests as they enter the resort’s spacious lobby. Contemporary Khmer accents grace the resort’s interiors to remind guests where they are currently located. Once checked in, guests can easily connect to the resort’s strong Wi-Fi. Further inspection of the resort reveals its quintessential elegance and almost zen-like quality, inviting guests to focus on the actual things that matter. Soothing colour scheme is deployed throughout the resort. Low-slung and uncomplicated furniture reminiscent of Scandinavian designs intelligently complements the resort’s understated look. Everything about the hotel is practical and relevant to this day and age sans unnecessary frills. The resort is also one of the few hotels in Siem Reap offering children’s pool and Kid’s club, attesting to its familyfriendliness.

“Through our décor and innovative amenities, we are able to provide our guests with tranquillity and comfort whilst visiting Siem Reap on a meaningful journey of exploration,” explains Ashley Lai, General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort.

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Rooms The resort houses 233 thoughtfullydesigned, cosy and functional guestrooms and suites. Accommodation starts from the 40-metre squared Deluxe room, exceedingly large for its standard, giving more space to avoid clutter and easy to settle in.

Besides integrated sound system with Bluetooth connection, each room has a private balcony. In place of heavy carpeting, the rooms sport laminated and tiled flooring for fuss-free maintenance. Each room has at least up to six multi-standard sockets positioned at various corners for charging several devices at once and removing the need for foreign guests to bring international adaptors when coming to Siem Reap.

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Daylight easily floods into the room all the way to the marble-cladded bathroom via large glass panels.

Bathroom amenities like toothbrush and hairdryer are stashed away in boxes, while tea- and coffee-making facilities are tucked away inside the cupboard opposite the wardrobe, hidden away to keep the space neat. Other than handheld and rain shower heads, each room under the Deluxe Double category and onwards is equipped with inviting bathtub for guests to unwind after a whole day of exploring or working. The toilet has dual flushing system, helping to conserve water.

The resort’s ultra-comfortable beds and pillows guarantee guests’ soporific overnight slumber. “All beds at Courtyard by Marriott properties are of the same high quality so guests can expect the same kind of standards wherever they go in the world, Siem Reap included,” reveals Lenen Mar A. Porras, the resort’s Marketing and Communications Manager. In the evenings, turndown service is provided, accompanied by indulgent confections like Kampot pepper chocolate mousse or Khmer cookies with pandan kaya or mango and banana cake, little things that make staying at the resort feels extra special.

Food & beverage For a wholesome introduction to Cambodian gastronomy, guests should head to Lok Lak, the resort’s lightfilled all-day restaurant. Its scrumptious breakfast buffet spread includes the uplifting fish amok omelette containing noni (Indian mulberry) leaf. The restaurant features ala-carte fusion menu during lunch or dinner based on authentic Khmer palate crafted using locally sourced produce as well. One of the recommended dishes here is the pan-seared catfish, a tribute to one of Cambodia’s staple: the river fish.

Some of the dishes put together at Lok Lak are sprinkled with Kampot pepper, deemed the best pepper in the world.

Other dishes use prahok (spicy, salty and pungent fermented fish paste, used in the Cambodian day-to-day cooking to boost the dishes’ flavour), similar to the Malaysian belacan (fermented shrimp paste). Though some are sceptical at first, after several spoonfuls of the prahok-laced dishes, diners are bound to fall for its appetising aroma and satiating aftertaste.

Other must-savour dishes are the inventive hummus from jackfruit seed, a savoury dish with hint of the fruit’s sweetness that serves as a wonderful as dip or spread, and the surprisingly tangy and nutty seared red ant beef salad as appetiser. Be sure to end your dinner by relishing the resort’s smooth homemade ice cream.

Facilities Quan Spa is Marriott’s own brand of spa and opens in various Marriott flagship properties throughout the world. The Quan Spa at Courtyard

by Marriott Siem Reap Resort is the sole Quan Spa in the destination, inviting weary travellers into a haven of relaxation. Quan means ‘source of pure water’, in line with its intention to rejuvenate and reinvigorate all of its patrons.

Interestingly, each Quan Spa throughout the world formulates its own spa menu comprising ingredients and techniques indigenous to the host destination. In the case of Quan Spa in Siem Reap, ingredients such as organic oil from Kampot province are prepared

in-house. Guests are recommended to try out this spa for its reasonably priced menu and efficacious treatments, besides using the sauna and steam room for free.

Deck using stationary binoculars. Due to building height restriction in Siem Reap, buildings should never be taller than Angkor Wat, therefore the highest they can go is seven storeys.

Guests are advised to arrive at the spa 15 minutes before treatment begins.

Foot ritual is dispensed at the start of the session. Those who opt for massages are brought to any of the spa’s seven rooms; five of the rooms have single beds while the other two have two beds each, suitable for couples. Memory foam headrests are attached to those beds, enhancing guests’ comfort. Similar to the resort’s guestrooms, the spa’s rooms have Bluetooth-connected sound system for guests to play their own playlist while enjoying treatment.

Organisers of meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) will find Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort ideal for staging events.

Always looking ahead, the resort’s spaces and state-of-the-art facilities are in accordance to the needs of next-generation travellers. The light and elegant 410-metre squared Grand Room can sit up to 200 persons in sitdown dinner configuration, while five function rooms are ready to host guests’ inspiring meetings and celebrations.

In the evenings, guests are welcome to check out the stunning rooftop bar called Upper Deck on the seventh floor to admire the view of brilliant sunset and Angkor Wat in the distant horizon.

Upper Deck concocts a wide range of exotic cocktails and exquisite smallplate menu. Guests could even zoom in on Angkor Wat from the Upper

Eye-opening experience Guests are recommended to follow the trip to nearby Phsar Leu (Leu Market) – around five minutes’ drive from Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort – led by the resort’s Head Chef Chanrith Van, to witness the destination’s grass roots’ way of life.

Apparently, Chef Chanrith is the best person to guide guests around the

market because of his passion towards reviving Cambodian culinary heritage.

With strong support from the resort, he is currently putting together a book containing authentic Cambodian recipes passed down from generation to generation.

“Hygiene is imperative and quality of the ingredients used for cooking at the resort is never compromised. All types of meat supplied to the resort pass the stringent Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HAACP) standards,” Chef Chanrith assures.

When exploring the market, guests will understand why river fish is the staple for the Cambodian communities situated along or close to the Mekong River and Tonle Sap lake, like those in Siem Reap: freshwater fish is more abundant along Mekong river, thus more affordable than meat.

Phsar Leu is the place where you can see prahok being sold in buckets too.

According to Chef Chanrith, prahok is fermented up to two years – the longer it is fermented, the stronger the flavour.

Besides fish and meat, Cambodians feed on fresh local greens, salads and herbs, including edible flowers like jasmine, needle flower, pumpkin flower, and the cheerful yellowcoloured Sesbania bispinosa. Insects like grasshoppers, crickets, black spiders and silkworm are also sold at the market, which are part of the Cambodian diet.

Conclusion Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort is an innovative worldclass property poignantly fulfilling the demands of today’s travellers, simultaneously offering huge doses of pragmatism, cultural immersion and elevated experience. Not having to shout loudly on its existence, business and leisure guests are expected to repeat their stay at this resort whenever they are in Siem Reap because it is a remarkably efficient accommodation that never fails to deliver on what matters the most… www.courtyardsiemreap.com

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Hotels & Resorts

Dash Resort Langkawi: Making a run for the best in hospitality Te x t & I m a g e s b y LI LY R I A N I

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Where is this place? Santorini?

That seemed to be the frequently asked question whenever anyone sees my photos of Dash Resort Langkawi. The resort setting is simply perfect - nestled in the cove of Pantai Tengah, with the breeze from the Andaman Sea gently kissing one’s face as the bright blue sky greets holidaymakers happily. Although the whitewashed buildings with the blue hue décor exudes the famous Santorini feel, the vibrant colours and the Dash bunny that pops up around the grounds certainly gave it an idiosyncratic touch. When asked on the resort concept, the answer was simple: Alice in Wonderland, whimsical with a colonial charm. Dash designers have carefully incorporated the culture and intrinsic qualities of the hotel’s surroundings to ensure that all aspects of the hotel perfectly blend in harmony.

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Stepping into wonderland Established resort Adding to the property’s sense of theatre, guests will find themselves catwalking on the checkered runway all the way to the purple front desk where the friendly Dash employees readily attend to them. Don’t be surprised with the arrays of pastries and tarts available for guests to sample at The Mad Tart Patisserie located next to the front desk. Bringing the Alice in Wonderland theme alive means guests are also greeted by the blue Dash bunny at the courtyard, with themed garden chairs for those who want to chill with the bunny while taking in the grandeur of the property’s colonial architecture.

The hero in Dash Despite being the newest kid on the block, Dash Resort Langkawi knows how to create an impact on this legendary island. This is evident in its décor – to stand out in this legendary island, quirkiness is key. Hence the paintings of superheroes dressed in Elizabethan outfits spread across the premise. You’ll get to hunt for Superman, Batman, Spiderman and not forgetting Darth Vader and Chewbacca – the winner is the ‘hero’.

Into the rabbit hole Jump into the Rabbit Hole Spa to pamper yourself and resurface with a new persona. A variety of scented oils that resonate with different moods and energies are available, each with the aim to relax and revive the body, mind and soul. The main focus of The Rabbit Hole Spa is to spoil guests with indulgent massages and beauty treatments by experienced masseuses and therapists.

The house of Dash rabbit Unlike other stores located within resorts, dashoppee retail store offers Dash’s very own collectors’ item from Dash’s hotel chain in Malaysia and Indonesia. Guests may start collecting the Dash red rabbit from Dash Hotel Seminyak in Bali, green rabbit from Dash Box Hotel in Cyberjaya, and Dash Resort Langkawi’s turquoise blue rabbit. There are also several Dash hotels currently in the pipeline to enchant travellers, with different coloured Dash rabbits, each representing different Dash property.

A beach club by the infinity pool Next to the serene infinity pool is the Dash Beach Club, which consists of MYA Kitchen & Cocktails and The SHACK. Considered as the most Instagram-worthy spot in the resort and set to be the coolest beach club in Langkawi, this is the place where guests can enjoy a swim while having a meal, do yoga, chill away or simply enjoy the sunset.

Furthermore, guests can also walk over to the popular Pantai Cenang for watersports activities.

Room with jacuzzi that looks over the sea and giant purple ant Being welcomed by the Dash rabbit in the white furnished hotel rooms certainly puts a smile on you. Every room has its own surprise in terms of décor – the detailing of the Studio Room, which is the resort’s lead-in category, is already astounding; I recommend that guests opt for the Garden Room that comes with an adorable replica of a giant purple ant and jacuzzi facing the sea. Villas are available too for those who value their privacy. For Dash’s standards, nothing is too flamboyant, sexy or over-the-top, making your stay in Langkawi memorable and extraordinary.

About the launch of Dash Resort Langkawi and Ri-Yaz Hotels and Resorts …

The Dash Resort Langkawi was launched by Yang Amat Berhormat Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed, Prime Minister of Malaysia and Langkawi Member of Parliament on 25 November 2018. In conjunction with the launch, the company managing the hotel Ri-Yaz Hotels and Resorts – a wholly-owned Malaysian business entity – also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Alphanam Real Estate Vietnam for the group to manage the Altara Residences Quy Nhon and Altara Suites Sa Pa in Vietnam.

Dash Resort Langkawi, Dash Box Hotel Cyberjaya and Dash Hotel Seminyak Bali are fully managed by Ri-Yaz Hotels and Resorts, besides the Altara Suites Da Nang in Vietnam. There are a few more Dash hotels to be launched this year, namely the sleek Dash Hotel KLCC that will serve as the Ri-Yaz group’s new headquarters, along with the historic Dash Heritage Penang and the opulent Dash Oriental Malacca.

“Dash is built with uniqueness in mind, offering guests the opportunity to experience a one-of-a-kind stay. This is represented in the scenic setting, to the extravagant storybook design and the hospitality and service that is uniquely ‘Dash’, aiming to set it apart from other hotels on the island. This approach has proven successful for Dash Resort Langkawi as it was recently recognised by the prestigious 2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards as the Best Designed Resort, the first ever to be won by a property in Langkawi,” said Datuk Seri Mohammed Shaheen Shah Mohd Sidek, Founder and Group Managing Director for Ri-Yaz Hotels and Resorts.

Ri-Yaz Hotels and Resorts’ core strength lies in consultancy and solutions for the hospitality industry. Its expertise ranges from hotels and resort services to education, food and beverages, and retail. Having a deep understanding of traveller’s needs from years of experience empowers the group to effectively implement seamless total customer experience in all of its properties.

For more info, look up http://www.dash-hotels.com/langkawimalaysia/ and http://www.dash-hotels.com/.

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Hotels & Resorts

Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur Managed by Banyan Tree: A Sanctuar y for the Senses

Te x t b y J U H A N K A M A R U D D I N I m a g e s b y PAV I LI O N H O T E L K UA L A L U M P U R MANAGED BY BANYAN T REE

Standing 13 storeys above Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, an award-winning six-storey shopping centre, Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur Managed by Banyan Tree is strategically located in Bukit Bintang, Malaysia’s major hotspot for shopping, dining and nightlife. World-renowned landmarks like Petronas Twin Towers and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre are within walking distance too.

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“Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur has the ability to accept guests from all walks of life, whether they are leisure, business, corporate, social, and we have the price point that meets every guest’s needs from start to finish,” says the General Manager of Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur Mr Anders Dimblad.

Capitalising on Banyan Tree expertise Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur is unique because it leverages on Banyan Tree’s world-class service standards, operational excellence, and positive work culture. Though it currently receives more leisure travellers due to its location and direct connection to the Banyan Tree brand, the hotel is steadily receiving increasing number of corporate guests seeking an efficient city stay that doubles up as an upscale, urbane getaway.

experience. “(Our) service is out of sight but never out of reach, and we always anticipate our guests’ needs,” he adds.

“When guests stay at Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur, they get to enjoy the legendary Banyan Tree experience with the same high touch but more corporate- and businessinclined. Staying at Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur opens guests to facilities available at the hotel and Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur. Since both hotels are under the same group, guests can go across (to Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur) and cross sign at any of its food and beverage outlets, including spa facilities,” assures Mr Dimblad.

“We want to be established as one of the leading hotels not just in terms of guest satisfaction and financial returns, but also employee satisfaction through constructive feedback and employee engagement. (We believe) happy staff equals happy guests, who then become repeat guests, bringing in business, generating revenue and giving good returns to the owners,” he elaborates.

Undeniably deluxe and refined, the hotel recognises guests as individuals who have different needs and attempts to deliver exceptional service and unparalleled

“Banyan Tree is a strong brand built up by its people. The hotel employees are recruited based on attitude and they go out of their way to delight guests,” reveals Mr Dimblad.

To further boost their competence, employees are given a minimum of six hours of training per month done online and offline.

Contemporary interiors and rooms Due to the generous amount of natural light being allowed inside, Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s interior feels airy and bright. Light coloured furnishings are generously applied throughout the hotel, making the

spaces appear roomier. High ceilings and clean lines, especially within the hotel’s Japanese restaurant named Ebisu, evoke a calming, reflective mood.

The hotel houses 325 rooms and suites decked in contemporary décor overlooking either the courtyard or city skyline, all accessed using fast elevators. Each guestroom at least comes with a 55-inch flat-screen television, minibar, and Capsule Coffee Machine. The bathroom – accompanied

by Banyan Tree toiletries containing the signature Thai Chamanard formula – has two types of shower heads: one is handheld, while the other is large and fixed onto the ceiling to simulate a refreshing tropical rain. As with all luxurious properties, turndown service is customary.

Refined gastronomic selection Talking about dining at Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur, guests should head to The Courtyard, the hotel’s all-day dining outlet embellished with natural tones interspersed with vibrant colours, reminiscent of the brightly coloured motifs gracing the songket, a rich Malaysian woven fabric.

This outlet serves up mouth-watering smorgasbord of flavourful Malaysian cuisine along with the view of a relaxing open-air space with waterfall that can be rented out for functions. Guests should also dine at Ebisu, a smart and wellproportioned restaurant and bar space on level 8 highlighting Japanese cuisine with a twist, prepared by Chef Kusuo Kamiishi, affectionately known as Chef Ricky.

The Whisky Cove – a place to unwind with a wide selection of whiskies and blends from around the world – is one of the hotel’s unique selling points because not all Banyan Tree-managed properties have it. This bijou joint prepares signature cocktails and mocktails like the ‘Highland Poney’ using home-made sugar syrup, giving it a distinct, stimulating flavour, ideal even for parched teetotallers.

State-of-the-art facilities Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur offers a range of meeting and event facilities suitable for all occasions. The total event space measures 1,298 square metres comprising ballroom on large enough for 450 persons; a well-thought-out multi-functional crescent-shaped venue with double-height ceiling aptly called The Crescent that seats 120 persons in banquet setting; and five fully-equipped meeting rooms, each comfortably accommodating up to 40 persons.

The hotel’s 24-hour Sky Gym with spacious, Zen-inspired changing rooms and rooftop infinity pool are located on level 18. Do wake up early to take in the view of sunrise and the surrounding city skyline from the infinity pool, which is bound to take your breath away.

The urban escapade is not complete without experiencing the internationally acclaimed Banyan Tree Spa on level 16, which dispenses selected Asian-inspired treatments through highly-

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skilled therapists; each therapist had undergone a minimum of 350 hours of training conducted by Banyan Tree Spa Academy. Guests should try out the spa’s rain mist therapy as well, a newly introduced feature that sets the spa apart from its competitors.

Epicureans should gravitate to the Banyan Tree Retail Shop, which retails handicrafts, apparels and signature Banyan Tree spa amenities like body care products and essential oils.

Various formulae and uplifting scent collections for example Coconut Seaweed, Honey Turmeric, and Jasmine Frangipani are on sale for guests to bring home the Banyan Tree experience. My personal favourite is the sweet and woody Dill and Sandalwood, which I gleefully purchased and used almost instantly.

Conclusion Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur makes for an excellent stay not only due to its strategic location and ability to meet the needs of a wide range of guests, but also because it aims to become a ‘sanctuary of the senses’, the place where guests can get away, reenergise, and have their experience raised to another level, perfect for sophisticated out-of-town business or leisure travellers, including staycationers… https://www.banyantree.com/en/malaysia/pavilion-hotel

Hotels & Resorts

Lanjut Beach & Golf Resort - An Unexpected Br illiance in Kuala Rompin Te x t b y A I N A N A B I H A H Images by PNB MANAGEMENT SERVICES SDN BERHAD (PMSSB)

After four hours on the road, I felt crippled from that long journey that limited my movement to only a short stretch of my arms. But as I stepped out of the vehicle, a sort of excitement fueled all my limbs and resurrected the childlike wonder burrowed in me as I headed straight into the resort. My whole mood was uplifted as I thought to myself: “This is going to be a great stay…”

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Lanjut Beach & Golf Resort is a big surprise to me in an essence. The serene environment, the private beach, the spacious rooms; everything was screaming unexpected brilliance in this quaint resort village. Tucked in Kuala Rompin, PNB Management Services Sdn Berhad (PMSSB) – the company managing this newly developed property – invited a group of local media members, including I, to a soft launch. On top of that, we were also brought to a series of adventures that are filled with authentic local charms that guests can experience when staying at the resort.

When I first walked into the lobby, the boxy structure of the building greeted me with the full view of the resort’s grounds and two wide pools. The open concept allows fresh air and lush natural light to flood the main spaces.

Bright, colourful array of couches are paired with earthy, wooden tables that define the lobby as a contemporary lounge area. I was greeted with the staff ’s enthusiasm and warmth while having my luggage delivered to the front door of my room.

Made up of two blocks, Lanjut has a total of 196 rooms, divided into six categories. Interestingly, all are built with own private balcony that presents a pleasant view of the clean and quiet serenity of the resort either facing the South China Sea or the pool. Lanjut offers a range

of rooms starting from Superior Garden/Pool view at RM450 and Superior Sea View at RM500, all the way to its most exclusive category, the Executive Suites that come in two-bedroom apartment configuration, which is priced at RM1,200 per night. The rooms strut classic elegance with warm, earthy tones and common woodwork that is sweetly reminiscent of the past.

I had the opportunity to stay at the property’s Superior Triple Room, with sea view. The room is located at the corner of the building, with extra floor space that makes it look more spacious and accommodating. The balcony faces the sea, with a direct view of the sand volleyball field and the private beach. Sitting by the balcony was an experience of its own, with the cool breeze blowing over me and the fresh smell of the ocean wafting in the air. One particular charm of this resort was the silence of its environment, where only the sounds of the wind and birds can be heard echoing across the area. The General Manager, Mr. Hizam Shah Omar said that Lanjut is home to a large population of the iconic hornbill birds, and they are determined to domesticate some of it for the bird-loving guests to see up close. He is convinced that the birds are one of the most attractive points of the resort - their existence is congruent to the resort’s motto, which is ‘Nature’s Harmony’.

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This made a lot of sense when I was introduced to one of the most breathtaking aspects of the resort: its private beach. The beach was like a gem that possesses multiple angles of allure and splendour as it stretches 3.5 kilometres across the vicinity of the resort. It offers an unobstructed view of the horizon and during the golden hours, it becomes a mirror-like entity that reflects the summery blue sky magnificently. Due to the open seas, I was told that Lanjut beach also features the opportunity of seeing dolphins during dawn when they swim across the bay. The quaint, undisturbed sandy shore was especially Instagrammable during the golden hours, with a set of gigantic swings, placed strategically along the coastline making it picturesque and rather romantic. However, the beach is only suitable for swimming on a certain period, still, the two huge pools would be more than suffice.

Another interesting fact about this resort is its goal in offering extensive food and beverage options to its guests.

Due to its secluded location and the massive resort quarters, food is quite hard to find. As such, the resort puts in effort in maintaining the quality of their culinary offerings at Anjung Brasserie and encourage residents to eat in rather than having to travel out for meals. And it is very convincing. The restaurant offers breakfasts, lunch, and dinner without fail every single day.

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The most exciting offer was their signature Seafood Galore package, where guests are served with an impressive assemblage of marine delicacies. Pick and choose, they say, as they handed me a plate and asked me to grab as much seafood as possible and hand it over to the chefs, in the open, by-the-pool kitchen where they cooked me the best-grilled fish and Chinese stir-fried clams ever. The main point of this buffet is personalisation, where the customers are encouraged to pick a menu that suits their appetite best, through the help of professional chefs (that are also helpful in guiding you through their best menu) so you can have a wholesome dinner of your own choice. For the non-seafood lovers, the restaurant also offers a BBQ package with the same concept and quality. An array of quality meats are put on display for the customers, with complementing sides that are so good, you can have them without the grilled meat.

Throughout the trip, we relished Lanjut Beach & Golf Resort’s hospitality, especially when it comes to the live cooking show by the pool to showcase Anjung Brasserie’s best dishes. One of them is Sang Har Mee, the restaurant’s special menu that highlights Rompin’s specialty: the Giant Freshwater Prawn. Big, luscious and fleshy prawn seasoned to perfection with handpicked spices and herbs sit atop the smooth the Yee Mee gravy noodle, turning the dish into a visually pleasing, mouth-watering and aromatic ensemble.

Just one look at the meticulously presented dish sent my

salivary glands into an overdrive as I took photographs of it. There were a number of other dishes on show such as Ketam Nipah Bercili & Roti Goreng (Chilli Mud Crab & Fried Loaf ), Lanjut Beef Burger, Curry Prawn with Honey Pineapple and Wild Chicken Rendang. As the live cooking show wrapped up, we all sat down to savour these culinary masterpieces. The atmosphere suddenly quietened down and we only communicated by giving nods of approval as we indulge in the gastronomic delights.

The resort is also a brilliant MICE venue as it provides event spaces such as the expandable Grand Ballroom that sits up to 500 people and four function rooms to hold corporate and private functions, including a business centre. Other than that Lanjut also offers leisure facilities such as fitness centre, a wellness spa, family karaoke, cycling activities, beach soccer, volleyball court and more for guests’ convenience. A surau and a convenience store are also available to meet guests’ needs.

We were given an inspection of Lanjut’s Golf Course, which boasts eighteen holes. Some of us were given the chance to play and receive exclusive lessons from the sports instructor on how to have the perfect ‘swing’ – the overall golfing experience was fun-filled and appealing even for an amateur like me. This further increases the resort’s appeal as a staycation destination, where guests are not pressured to venture outside to be entertained. The resort itself is like a self-contained village that even comes with a preserved tropical rainforest where guests can engage in activities like trekking.

Guests would have a great time staying at Lanjut Beach & Golf Resort that when it is time to leave, they would do so with heavy hearts, similarly to how we felt. We truly hope to visit the resort again soon, this time lugging our family or friends or even loved ones along…

During the trip to Lanjut Beach & Golf Resort, we were also brought to several interesting attractions around Kuala Rompin, including along the journey to Kuala Rompin.

Although Lanjut Beach & Golf Resort in it itself has enough attractions within its grounds, the spots outside the resort are just too good to pass… » D’Sawah Breakfast Stall, Ulu Bendul. This humble but photogenic breakfast stall sitting by the vast paddy fields serves up some mean breakfast fares. One interesting dish is the signature Poket Doraemon (stuffed fried white bread) that is savoury and crispy at every bite. Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai and fried noodles sold at this stall are the typical favourites.

Each dish cost less than MYR10, making a second round of breakfast irresistible.

Opens every day from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Call +6 019 364 6515 or check out https://www.facebook.com/KedaiSarapan-DSawah-159044844616007/ » Teratak Zaba, Batu Kikir. What was once an uncompleted hovel, it has now become a beautiful wooden mansion that enshrines the legacy and literary works of Za’ba, a local scholar iconic and intellectual figure. For history buffs, this abode provides valuable information about the personality and relevant artefacts. Travellers are even allowed to leaf through the books authored by Za’ba.

Opens daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call +6 06 498 5193. Admission is free. » Kampung Deraman, Kuala Rompin is one of the indigenous villages in Kuala Rompin, which has a small population of wonderfully hospitable natives showcasing their culture. Tourists are feted to educational and entertaining performances, a short lesson on local arts and crafts and their unique local produce that can be purchased at the community stall. » Angling at Rompin’s sea, Kuala Rompin. Anglers would be delighted to be in Rompin as this district is internationally well known among anglers from around the world for the Royal Pahang Billfish International Challenge. Travellers are recommended to try their hand at catching the iconic billfish in Rompin’s waters and brag about it afterwards. If angling is not your thing, then try clam fishing, where you have to actually get off the boat and reach the river floor to find them. When in season, you will definitely be able to collect shellfish in buckets. » Zaini Salai House, Ulu Bendul. Situated right across D’Sawah Breakfast Stall, this larger eatery serves up combination of smoked meats cooked in creamy, zesty and spicy gravy cooked with authentic local salad or ulam to give it a fresh, smoky and leafy flavour that goes well with white rice. It is considered as local specialty. One plate would not be enough as the spicy gravy titillates your taste buds.

The smoked meats range from duck, chicken, and quail to freshwater fishes; all cooked to perfection according to their authentic flavours.

Opens daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. except Saturdays.

Call +6 013 488 6491 or check out https://www.facebook. com/ZainiSalaiHouse/

For more information and online booking visit https://www.lanjut.my/

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Travel Anecdotes

Sizzling Suzai

Te x t & I m a g e b y S i z z l i n g S u z a i

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Born in Kuala Lumpur, Suzai Dathul Ezaidah Bt Sukarjo, popularly known on social media as Sizzling Suzai, was a mechanical engineering student at International Islamic University Malaysia and now a full time engineer. During her spare time, she actively blogs on her own site called www.sizzlingsuzai. com, documenting her passion and experiences in travel.

She first travelled back in 2012 when she started to earn her own income and she never stopped since. Her first destinations were Jakarta and Bandung in Indonesia, and her first travel buddy was her beloved mother, whom she gets into disagreements but always travel together!

To Suzai personally, travel is a kind of therapy that makes her happy, builds her character and changes the way she looks and deals with life!

Suzai on travels . My favourite destination(s): Innsbruck, Austria . My dream destination(s): Mecca, Saudi Arabia . My must-have(s) in the carry-on: Smartphone! . My worst nightmare during travel: Missing my flight to London and having to purchase a new one way ticket on the spot at the cost of MYR 4,000 plus (T.T) . My favourite Malaysian spot(s): Terengganu and its beaches! . My best meal taken in Malaysia: of course, NASI LEMAK! . Malaysia is special because… people from difference ethnicity can eat peacefully in 1 restaurant enjoying the same meal, Roti Canai!

Solo or group travel?

Duo Aisle or window seat?

Window, though I will fall asleep in 20 minutes later!

See it all or take it easy?

SEE IT ALL! 24 hours in a day are just not enough for me!

I travel for…satisfaction!

Suzai in 30 seconds . Night owl or early-riser?

Night owl, the earliest bedtime for me is 1:00 a.m. . Back to nature or city slicker?

I enjoy both (it really depends on what the destination offers) but I am more of a City Slicker because I love nightlife. . One book everyone should read?

I am not a bookworm but my all time favourite is AirAsia Travel360 magazine because their travel articles are always fascinating to read! . What is the last thing you Googled?

The correct grammar for “the earliest bed time for me is 1am” (OMG kantoi!) . What’s on your playlist right now?

A Hindi song entitled “Pal” from the movie Jalebi! . What is the moment you’re most proud?

Making both my parents proud of me. . What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Toxic people . Whose brain would you like to have had?

TONY FERNANDES . Life is too short to... give up! C’mon guys, let’s do everything, try anything and travel everywhere as much as we can!