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Gaya Special Feature

Qatar Airways Touches Down for the First Time in Langkawi, Malaysia Four-times-weekly service via Penang operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, expanding to five-times-weekly from 27 October 2019

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker shaking hands with Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, Dato’ Mohd Shukrie Mohd Salleh.

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The first Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Langkawi touched down at Langkawi International Airport on Tuesday, 15 October 2019. A special flight was operated from Doha to Langkawi on Wednesday, 16 October 2019, bringing QatarAirways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, including eminent individuals and international media representatives to the Malaysian resort island.

The special flight was welcomed with great fanfare by the Chief Minister of Kedah, Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mukhriz bin Tun Mahathir; the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Malaysia, His Excellency Mr. Fahad Mohammed Kafoud; Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Malaysia in Qatar, Mr. Mohamad Shahir Sabarudin; Chief Operating Officer of Malaysia Airports, Dato’ Mohd Shukrie Mohd Salleh; Chief Executive Officer, Langkawi Development Authority, Dr. Hezri Adnan; and Qatar Airways Senior Vice President Asia Pacific, Mr. Marwan Koleilat, and senior airport officials.

“I am thrilled to have been on today’s special flight to Langkawi and to be here celebrating our arrival to this stunning archipelago. Langkawi marks the eighth new destination added to Qatar Airways’ rapidly expanding network in 2019. With its forested hills, stunning whitesand beaches and glimmering turquoise waters, Langkawi is fast becoming one of South East Asia’s most highly sought-after destinations and the reason why we knew we

had to launch our flights here. Beginning with a four-timesweekly service that will grow to five-times-weekly from 27 October 2019, we look forward to welcoming business and leisure travellers alike on board so that they may experience the ‘Jewel of Kedah’,” said His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, after arriving in Langkawi.

Doha-Langkawi Flight Schedule: Flight Schedule from 15 October 2019: Service operates Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday Doha (DOH) to Penang (PEN) QR 866 departs 02:25, arrives 15:00 Penang (PEN) to Langkawi (LGK) departs 16:25, arrives 17:05 Langkawi (LGK) to Penang (PEN) QR 867 departs 19:00, arrives 19:40 Penang (PEN) to Doha (DOH) departs 21:00, arrives 23:45 Flight Schedule from 27 October 2019: Service operates Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Doha (DOH) to Penang (PEN) QR 866 departs 02:10, arrives 14:20 Penang (PEN) to Langkawi (LGK) departs 15:30, arrives 16:20 Langkawi (LGK) to Penang (PEN) QR 867 departs 18:40, arrives 19:40 Penang (PEN) to Doha (DOH) departs 20:35, arrives 23:25

“I would like to welcome Qatar Airways to Langkawi International Airport, the first middle eastern airline to fly to this beautiful island. The inclusion of a new international airline to Langkawi will definitely spur our Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign by increasing the number of tourists into Langkawi,” mentioned Dato’ Mohd Shukrie Mohd Salleh, Chief Operating Officer of Malaysia Airports.

The new service to Langkawi utilises the airline’s state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, featuring 22 seats in Business class and 232 seats in Economy class, with spacious cabins and specially-designed interiors. On top of the award-winning in-flight service on board, passengers travelling to Langkawi also have access to Oryx One, Qatar Airways’ in-flight entertainment system, offering the latest blockbuster movies, TV box sets, music, games and more.

To celebrate the launch of the DohaLangkawi route, Qatar Airways threw a sparkling gala dinner at The RitzCarlton, Langkawi on 17 October 2019, hosted by Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker.

“I am happy to be here tonight to celebrate the launch of our new service from Doha to Langkawi and to meet with local VIPs and stakeholders. Qatar and Malaysia have strong political and bilateral ties as witnessed by the recent visit to Malaysia by The Amir of Qatar,

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Clockwise from Top: Qatar Airways’ special flight to Langkawi is welcomed with water salute after landing at Langkawi International Airport;Yuna wowing the audience with her compelling performance during Qatar Airways gala dinner at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi; Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, delivering his speech during the gala dinner.

His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in December 2018. This strong relationship is truly reflected in trade between the two countries and is expected to top 1 billion US dollars this year, tripling what it was just 12 years ago. At Qatar Airways we continue to demonstrate our commitment with the addition of our third gateway to Malaysia, the beautiful island of Langkawi,” His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker mentioned in his speech during the gala dinner.

Among the list of VIP guests at the dinner were the Chief Minister of Kedah, Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mukhriz bin Tun Mahathir; His Excellency Mr. Fahad Mohammed Kafoud; Mr. Marwan

Koleilat; and senior government and airport officials.

The stylish crowd enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal, a host of entertainment, including breathtaking performance by the internationally renowned Malaysian singer/songwriter superstar, Yuna, who had the whole audience up on its feet dancing to some of her most popular hits.

Qatar Airways operates a modern fleet of over 250 aircrafts via its hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA), to more than 160 destinations worldwide.

For more information, visit www. qatarairways.com/.

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Contents

ISSUE 14.4

Cover Illustration by Mohd Nor Adli Ahmad Jaffar

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

Departments

032. Tastefully Ti Chen

046. Xin Chào, Vietnam!

050. Revving Up Perak via Eat.Travel.Ride.

056. Enchanting Egypt / Exploring the country with

Cleopatra Travel & Tours 066. Yogyakarta, Gracefully Manoeuvring into Modernity 070. Kuala Lumpur for All 074. Maxing Out the New Golden Route with

Hokuriku Arch Pass 082. Deliciously Glocal Dubai 088. Sabah, Here I Come!

096. Adventuring North Sumatra 100. Administratively Beautiful Putrajaya 106. Tioman, I’m in Love!

110. RENTAK SELANGOR 4 – Discovering

Selangor’s Rhythm and Soul 117. Pahang: An Extraordinarily Unforgettable Adventure 124. Exploring Vibrant Shah Alam

Destinations

Hotels & Resorts

014. Editorial Jottings

Gaya Special Feature

012

008. Qatar Airways Touches Down for the First Time

in Langkawi, Malaysia 018. The Philosophy Behind Terengganu Woodcarvings 040. CTM 2019 Signals Cambodia has Arrived as an

International Tourism Destination 044. Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Gaya Traveller

023. Taipei, An Up-and-Coming Muslim-Friendly Destination

Gaya Dine & Café

036. Gastro-Orgasmic Gaziantep!

128. Family-friendly Furama

Congratulations

Yang Mulia Tengku Shamsulbhari AlHaj Ibni Yang Amat Mulia Tengku Azman Shah AlHaj S.MK, J.P

on your appoinment as

The Patron & Chairman of Gaya Travel Magazine

Our team looks forward to working closely with you in all of our upcoming endeavours.

We also wish you success in all of your present and future undertakings.

Editorial Jottings

the host countries of the stated events (including the rest of the world, of course) so that 2020 also becomes a year that is meaningful and pleasant to us all.

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By the time you read this issue, 2019 is fast becoming a distant memory. In its place, many anticipate that 2020 will be an exciting year since it will be the time when #VisitMalaysia2020 #VM2020 (http://vm2020. malaysia.travel/) is in full swing, Tokyo holds the Olympic Games (https://tokyo2020.org/en/) from 24 July until 9 August and Paralympic Games from 25 August until 6 September, and Dubai hosts the World Expo (https://www.expo2020dubai.com/en) from 20 October until 10 April 2021. And on top of the mentioned events, Malaysia hosts the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) series of meetings throughout the year, culminated in November 2020 when the APEC heads of state deliver a consensus declaration. Oh and are you aware that in 2020, Kuala Lumpur assumes the role as UNESCO World Book Capital (https://www. kualalumpurwbc.com/) too? Seems like 2020 is a busy year, which should be welcomed by many, despite the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead, because all these events help to foster dialogue, interaction, and healthy competition to spur hope, determination, ingenuity, trust and understanding. And travellers are recommended to take advantage of the year by visiting

In line with Visit Malaysia 2020, in this issue, we are recommending you to follow a trip to Perak with the riders of big bikes (page 50); unearth some more hidden gems of Kuala Lumpur (page 70); discover spots that are still under tourists’ radar between Kota Belud and Kudat in Sabah (page 92); take a relaxing spin around Putrajaya (page 100); escape to Tioman island that has never lost its charms (page 106); enjoy the ethnic and traditional beats in Selangor (page 110); go glamping while surrounded by lush greenery in Pahang (page 117); and get acquainted with Shah Alam, Selangor’s vibrant but often-overlooked capital (page 124).

Those who seek for ideas to travel outside Malaysia are also in for a treat. Be sure to read up about our team’s experience in Gaziantep, the culinary capital of Turkey, during GastroAntep International Culinary Capital (page 36); Ho Chi Minh City and Hue in Vietnam (page 46); Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Edfu, Aswan, and Abu Simbel in Egypt (page 56); Yogyakarta in Indonesia (page 66); Japan’s New Golden Route that takes travellers to spots that dot along the Sea of Japan coast (page 74); the attractions in Dubai (page 82); and the journey from Lake Toba to Medan in North Sumatra, Indonesia (page 96).

It is our hope that all of you find the contents within this issue enriching. Stay safe wherever you are heading to.

And may 2020 bring great tidings and prosperity to us all...

JUHAN KAMARUDDIN@JEREMY KHALIL

Email your comments to jeremy@gayatravel.com.my

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T HE P HILOSOP HY behind

TERENGGANU WO ODCARVINGS Te x t b y A Z M I A B D U LL A H

Among the oldest professions practiced by the people of Terengganu are woodcarving and carpentry.

Terengganu wood artisans are known for their skills not only in making beautiful wood carvings but also in the building of boats and traditional houses without using nails.

In traditional homes, woodcarved ventilation panels are placed above doors and windows, adding aesthetic value. Such technology enables the interior of the homes to remain cool when it is hot outside and thermally comfortable during inclement tropical weather. From the entire house down to its beams, hallways, ornate doors, window shutters and furniture, the exquisite and brilliant wood craftsmanship can even be found on beds, jewelry boxes, mirror frames, and sofas.

The wood carvers today draw inspirations from Islamic designs, plants and nature, and interpret their work by carving intricate flowery motifs, Quranic verses and Islamic geometrical designs, shunning depictions of animals or humans. However, some of these motifs have existed for hundreds of years, even before the pre-Islamic era and served as visual interpretations of legends and myths. Originally, each motif was derived from a legend or folklore, but with the advent of Islam, the interpretation of the motifs has been changed to suit the faith.

An excellent destination for cultural enthusiasts to witness Terengganu woodcarving is Desa Ukiran Kayu (Woodcarving Village) in Kampung Raja, Besut (http://mdb.terengganu.gov.my/en/visitors/places-interest/desaukiran-kayu), which holds workshops and classes for budding woodcarvers, thus become a centre for vocational excellence. Not only are travellers able to see woodcarvers at work, they can appreciate the wooden structures found throughout the Village too, all built in traditional Terengganu Malay architecture.

Today, there is an increasing awareness among the people, especially the elites, to preserve this heritage and adorn their homes, including corporate offices, government departments, universities, hotels and resorts, with traditional Malay woodcrafts as part of cultural revival.

Gaya Special Feature: Terengganu

The History of Woodcarving There are not many early historical records relating to woodcarving. But the archeological remains from the Neolithic age show evidence of carvings on potteries, bracelets, pitchers and crockeries. In the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Kedah, there are generations of carvers’ who are still influenced by Langkasuka motifs and designs that grace the mosques, gazebos, and palaces, especially in the Pattani region of Southern Thailand.

The Malay traditional woodcarving is one of the oldest works of art. But because wood is a material with short lifespan, it is rare to find wood-based artefacts that last for thousands of years. There are however a few archaelogical remains of woodcarving that can be traced, for instance an old keris, antique crockery, ancient palaces, and mosques that withstood the test of time.

The Philosophy The philosophy behind traditional woodcarving revolves around the motifs that possess priceless aesthetic value conveyed in intricate artforms. The design motifs created are not only meant to be appreciated as beautiful showpieces, but they resonate with symbolic meanings as well to connote the Malay community’s reverence towards virtues such as being gracious, cultured and upright.

Traditional wood carving motifs are often associated with the carvers, their fine workmanship, the purpose of the carving, creativity and symbolic underpinnings. The merits of woodcarving go beyond the surface. Beneath the layers of purpose, workmanship, skills, creativity and symbols, lies the identity of the Malay carver.

The motifs on a woodcarving signify the attributes of the Malay character

through tangible forms, normally based upon visual expressions, sosiocultural background and community’s beliefs. The meanings, when unravelled, uphold the philosophy behind the carvings. An example of the philosophy that refers to the qualities of the Malay character can be found in statements such as ‘A Sprouting Attribute’, ‘An Attribute Full Of Secrecy’, ‘Sharp Enough But Not Thrusting The Enemy’, and ‘The Circumference That Collaborates Friendship’.

1. An Expression of Devotion The philosophical meaning of ‘A Sprouting Attribute’ symbolises the Malay community’s devotion in accepting Islam as the way of life.

Visually, the motifs on the carvings are sourced based on the carver’s own perception and expression, depicted by sprouting motifs like seedlings or flowers to mean that all humans are related and come from a single source created by Allah.

Similarly, the philosophy ‘An Attribute Full of Secrecy’ refers to the fact that all motifs on the woodcarving starts from a hidden base point, implying that the might of Allah is always shrouded in secrecy from humans because their minds will never be able to fathom the greatness of the Creator.

2. An Expression of Peace The philosophical meaning of ‘Sharp Enough But Not Thrusting The Enemy’ relates to the Malays’ inclination towards peace. The sharp woodcarving motifs tend to avoid touching or colliding with each other, reflecting the Malays’ desire for peace and diplomacy, yet at the same time always have their weapons sharp and ready.

3. An Expression of Togetherness The philosophical meaning behind ‘The Circumference That Collaborates Friendship’ is the manifestation of togetherness. The woodcarving motifs are designed in a circumference and in stacks to reflect harmony and consensus. It reflects a way of life that is always collaborative and supportive towards each other, resulting in peace and togetherness, strengthening the bond within members of the

community.

4. An Expression of Loyalty The patrons to the woodcarvers in a traditional Malay community were usually monarchs and aristrocrats. In most cases, the woodcarvings found at the palaces were commissioned by royalty. The woodcarvers appointed by the royal palace generally hold higher status and demonstrated their loyalty, commitment, dedication and appreciation through their vocation, done to the best of their abilities.

5. An Expression of Tenderness The expression of tenderness of the Malay character is revealed through rhythmic motifs; the contortions and flows depicted in the curves of the leaves and motifs mean graciousness and endearment, considered part of the Malay character.

6. An Expression of Refinement Besides functionality, the best woodcarving products lie in their aesthetics. But achieving the highest aesthetic standards requires creativity, knowledge, skills and acumen. The woodcarver should be able to elegantly portray his emotions through every design and motif.

Conclusion One can learn about the Malay character from the motifs of the traditional woodcarving, especially in terms of kinship, unity and togetherness, all expressed through the motifs. Carvers whose works contain philosophies representing the attributes of the Malay character through intricate motifs tend to produce woodcarvings that are high in aesthetic value and deep in meaning.

Text is based from the book ‘The Expression of Malay Identity Behind Traditional Wood Carving’ (‘Ekspresi Keperibadian Melayu Di Sebalik Ukiran Kayu Tradisional’) by Izani bin Mat Il, Faculty of Art, Computing & Creative Industry, Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI).

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TAIPEI, An

Up-and-Coming Muslim-Friendly Destination

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GAYA TRAVELLER’S TIPS FOR TAIPEI:

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» Download the Halal.Taiwan app (https://halal.tw/) for easy navigation to discover everything halal in Taiwan. » Non-Mandarin readers and speakers like us are recommended to download Google Translate App (https://translate.google.com/) » Get Easycard (https://www. easycard.com.tw/en/) for your travelling convenience; it can be used for Taipei Metro, bus service, stores and more. Just look out for the Easycard logo. You can buy Easycard at the Metro stations. » Money changers are hard to find in Taiwan, so the airport is the last place you would be able to get your New Taiwan Dollars at a competitive rate. » English is not widely spoken, but the Taiwanese are friendly and helpful, so getting around on your own is not impossible.

We were honoured to receive an invitation from Taipei City Government to experience the city’s Muslim-friendly hospitality for five days and four nights. Since our previous trips to Taiwan were wonderful, we were definitely looking forward to another interesting experience. Taiwan never ceases to amaze us, and we were very impressed of how proactive the Taiwanese government and tourism industry players are regarding halal tourism.

Taipei, the modern capital city of Taiwan, welcomed 11.1 million visitors in 2018. It is the political, financial, economic and cultural heart of Taiwan. Taipei has found a good balance between modern development and heritage preservation, making Taipei an appealing travel destination.

The main agenda of our recent trip to Taipei was to witness the Halal / Muslim-Friendly Certification Award Ceremony to Taipei City tourism industry players comprising the providers of accommodations and tourist attractions. During the ceremony 28 hotels, totaling 1,403 rooms, and six attractions received the coveted Muslim-Friendly Status certification by the Chinese Muslim Association (CMA).

are good natured, friendly, helpful and polite. The staff at the hotels, restaurants and shops generally would be able to understand and speak English. Google Translate application comes in handy whenever travellers need to read labels and signages.

Malaysians being Malaysians, food is always a strong pull factor. Taiwan produces high quality fruits and vegetables. Being avid edible gardeners ourselves, we always look forward to find out which fruits are currently in season. Taiwan is home to several farm stays, and some are certified Muslimfriendly.

WHY COME TO

TAIPEI?

To Malaysians – Muslims or otherwise – Taiwan is one of the closest four-season destinations they could head to for a quick getaway, which is only a four-hour-and-ahalf flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Both Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia fly directly to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.

Another big plus is that Malaysians do not require visa to enter Taiwan. As such, an impromptu trip could easily turn into reality!

Taiwan is safe for Muslim ladies. One of our guides during this trip was Atikah, a Malay girl wearing hijab (head covering). She is a student at one of the universities in Taipei. We asked if she had experienced any unpleasantness from the locals, she was quick to say ‘No’. Atikah mentioned that she found the Taiwanese remarkably understanding and open to different religious practices. We testify to this fact because we noticed that we didn’t receive any strong glare but only smiles from the locals.

Mandarin speakers are at an advantage since Mandarin the commonly spoken language in Taiwan. Majority of Taiwanese are not conversant in English, but don’t let this stop you from coming to Taiwan. Through our experience, the Taiwanese

Besides fresh produce, Taiwanese street food is an attraction in its own right.

Taipei has many night markets, and they are open every night. Be sure to visit at least one when you are in Taipei and prepared to be wowed by the myriad of street foods on sale! In case you did not know, Taiwan is the birth country of boba, or bubble tea. Sweet drinks like bubble tea, flavoured milk, bottled tea and coffee (all available at the convenience stores) are aplenty and cheap! We were totally spoilt for choice, as you would find yourselves too.

Taipei is clean. Like Japan, we hardly see trash cans at public places, yet there is no rubbish strewn on the ground.

We see many similarities between the Taiwanese and the Japanese. It is not surprising since Taiwan was once under Japanese rule for 50 years.

It is easy to get around Taipei due the city’s excellent transportation system.

Like most modern cities, Taipei has reliable public transportation network; get yourself a map of the Metro (Mass Rapid Transit) and city bus routes, and you will be well on your way to explore the city on your own.

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TAIWAN AND THE MUSLIM TRAVELLERS According to CrescentRating, the world’s leading authority of halal-friendly travel, the Muslim travel market is one of the fastest growing tourism sectors in the world. However, despite its huge potential, the market remains relatively untapped.

By 2026, the Halal travel sector’s contribution to the global economy is expected to be US$300 billion. By that time, Muslim visitors globally are forecasted to grow to 230 million visitors, representing over 10% of tourists worldwide.

Realising this, the Taiwan Government officials have been taking proactive measures to lure Muslim travellers to their wonderful country. As a result, there has been a steady increase of Muslim-friendly facilities all over the country, especially in Taipei.

Taipei Deputy Mayor Tsai Ping-Kun mentioned that Taipei City Government is seriously wooing Muslim travellers, especially the Millennials, by providing more of these three key facilities: halal food; availability of praying rooms; and toilets with bidets or spray hose for washing. He cited that “freedom, diversity and openness” are the most attractive features of Taipei, and pledged that the city intends to deliver detailed and considerate service so that Taipei can be enjoyed by all.

Taiwan ranked third on the Mastercard-CresentRating’s 2019 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) Non-OIC destinations list, an excellent achievement compared to the year before, which was fifth. The GMTI tracks the health and growth of Muslimfriendly travel destinations in four strategic areas: access, communications, environment and services. The GMTI is now the leading study providing insights and data to help countries, the travel industry and investors gauge the development of travel sectors while benchmarking a country’s progress when catering to Muslim travellers.

CresentRating’s CEO Fazal Bahardeen, who was also present at the certification ceremony, lauded Taiwan’s efforts towards Muslim-friendly tourism. He even pledged to work closely with the Chinese Muslim Association to promote Taiwan’s Muslimfriendly hotels and attractions.

MUSLIM-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATIONS According to CrescentRating, the On top of the 28 recently certified hotels, there are 18 more hotels that were certified earlier. Muslim-friendly rooms in these hotels are equipped with prayer mat, Qibla direction, washlets in the bathroom, and no alcohol or non-halal food. Halal breakfast options are available too. Food will be prepared in a designated Halal kitchen and served in specific tablewares. We were very impressed with what we had experienced throughout this trip.

We have never encountered such facilities in a non-muslim country prior to Taiwan. As a regular traveller, we find this very astounding.

These hospitality practitioners received professional education and training to equip themselves better in welcoming Muslim guests. These 28 hotels are spread across eight districts, including Beitou, Wanhua, and Zhongzheng in Taipei City. The types of accommodations range from business hotels and hot springs to youth hostels, offering diverse choices to Muslims travellers.

THE CERTIFIED 28 HOTELS ARE: » 109 Hostel Taipei (https://www.facebook.com/109vip/) » The Gaia Hotel (https://www.thegaiahotel.com/) » Horizon Inn (http://www.hihorizon.com/en) » Taipei Garden Hotel (https://www.taipeigarden.com.tw/) » Taipei City Hotel (http://www.taipei-hotel.tw/) » Taipei Discover Hostel (https://www.discoverhostel.com/) » Taisugar Hotel Taipei (http://www.taipeihotel-tsc.com.tw/en/index.html) » YOUR Hotel (http://www.yourhotel.com.tw/) » Hope Hotel (http://www.hopehotel.com.tw/) » Chill Roof Hotel (https://chillroof.com/zh-tw) » Ximen Hedo Hotel KangDing Taipei (http://www.hedohotel.com/en/) » Les Suite Grandee Hotel (http://www.grandeehotel.com.tw/english/about.html) » Spring City Resort (https://www.springresort.com.tw/en/) » Chyuan Do Spring Resort (http://www.cdhotel.com.tw/) » Green World Zhong Hua (https://zhonghua.greenworldhotels.com/) » Green World Zhong Xiao (https://zhongxiao.greenworldhotels.com) » Green World Shong Shan (https://songshan.greenworldhotels.com/) » Green World Shong Jiang (https://songjiang.greenworldhotels.com/) » Green World NanGang (https://nangang.greenworldhotels.com/) » Suz & Catorze (http://www.suz.mobi/en/) » Uinn Business Hotel (https://uinn-business-hotel.mydirectstay.com/) » Unite Hotel (http://unite.taiwanhotelstaipei.com/en/) » KDM Hotel (http://www.kdmhotel.com.tw/en/index.html) » Caesar Metro Taipei (https://www.caesarmetro.com/en) » HOME Hotel Da An (https://www.homehotel.com.tw/en/) » Apause Inn (https://apause-inn.com.tw/en-gb) » Warm Life Hotel (Tel: +886 2 2821 3191) » Poshpacker Hotel (http://www.poshpackerhotel.com/index_en.html)

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Chinese Muslim Association (CMA)

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Taiwan is all set to woo Muslim visitors through its hundreds of hotels and restaurants that are already certified as halal and Muslim-friendly by the Chinese Muslim Association. According to Halal Specialist Majid Tsai, Taiwan is home to approximately 250,000 Indonesians and 20,000 Malaysians. This further encourages business owners to seriously consider halal certification. In fact, it was the big hotels that first enquired about the possibility of getting halal certification from the Chinese Muslim Association after obtaining a copy of the Halal Restaurants in Taiwan Directory.

CMA was then the highest Muslim authority in China. It represents the Taiwan Muslim community domestically and internationally since 1958, responsible for promoting religious affairs, maintaining Islamic lifestyle and educating Muslim youths. All registered Muslim citizens of the Republic of China are its individual members, and the six mosques are its group member.

In the hospitality industry, CMA is responsible for: » Issuing Muslim Restaurant, Muslim-Friendly Restaurant, and Muslim-Friendly Tourism Certification, including offering Muslim-friendly tour guide training courses.

» Conducting ‘International Muslim Tourist-Friendly Receiving Program’.

Halal Certification Categories by Chinese Muslim Association » MR - Halal Muslim Restaurant The restaurant operator and the chefs are all Muslims. Everything is halal in the restaurant. » MFR – Muslim-Friendly Restaurant The restaurant’s operator is non-Muslim but they offer special menu for Muslims. Muslim menu is prepared in a dedicated kitchen or area with designated equipment and utensils. The meat and all ingredients used are all halal. The plates for Muslims and non-Muslims are separated and the dining area is segregated appropriately. » MFT – Muslim-Friendly Tourism The operators are hotels, hostels, bed and breakfast (B&B), or leisure farm. The rooms are equipped with praying facilities, including bidets in the toilets. Halal meals are prepared and served in a dedicated area. » HK - Halal Kitchen Central kitchen operators who supply halal food to airlines.

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Our five-day trip brought us to experience Taiwan’s halal and Muslim-friendly hospitality.

We stayed at four Muslim Friendly Tourism (MFT) certified accommodations, visited one out of the six mosques in the country (Taipei Grand Mosque), dined at halal / Muslim-friendly certified eateries for every meal, and most importantly, we had fun! We shall elaborate more on Taipei’s must-visit attractions in the next issue. Stay tuned!

GayaTraveller team would like to thank the Taipei City Government and Taiwan Learning Trip Ltd (Ms. Tammy) for making the team’s trip to Taiwan possible and smooth-sailing.

Gaya Dine & Café

Tastefully Ti Chen Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K E R I Images by N U R U L S Y I FA A RA M LA N

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It’s always nice to retreat to The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur, a serene oasis that manages to shut out suburban noises – an unexpected treat, you might say, considering it is strategic located within the Klang Valley. This easy access makes it an ideal staycation option to rejuvenate tired minds, as well as replenish the body by having a gratifying meal here, which is the next best thing after its tranquil surroundings.

And one of the hotel’s food and beverage outlets that offers such dining pleasure is its most-celebrated Chinese restaurant, Ti Chen, helmed by a passionate duo: Chef Lim Chee Woi and Chef Yau Kim Yew, who specialise in Cantonese cuisine and dim sum respectively. The interior is opulent yet welcoming, with French windows allowing as much of natural light as possible. The outlet’s dining area seats 150, suitable for holding special occasions especially when guests are treated to the soothing view of an adjacent lake. For those who prefer to dine in privacy, there is also a single, private room available. Ti Chen also has a well-stocked bar for those who are interested in a drink or two.

the latter leaves behind a rich, indulgent aftertaste.

Chef Lim also suggests trying out the bittergourd pudding, said to be good for cooling the body yet possesses a strong acquired taste that may not excite all types of palates. Do try it if you’re feeling brave…

It’s easy to browse through Ti Chen’s menu and pick your favourite a la carte items if you are familiar with Chinese delicacies and dim sum, while those who are still uninitiated would find the carefully-crafted set menu a better choice.

This outlet opens every day except Mondays, from 12:00 noon until 10:00 p.m., with a break between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. For reservations, contact +6 03 7843 1234 ext. 6122 or email to dine@thesaujana.com. www.saujanahotels.com/dining/ti-chen

I get my meal off to an aromatic start with a cup of hot JING Jasmine Pearls tea before proceeding to generous helpings of the beautifully handcrafted steamed signature siew mai (MYR20++), Ti Chen’s steamed prawn dumpling har kao (MYR22++) and deep fried bean curd rolls with cheese (MYR20++), all showcased in spellbinding simplicity, yet have a nice bite to them. Chef Yau then flaunts his craftsmanship with the extravagant serving of deep fried prawn with eggplants and pineapple sauce (MYR18++) that are both delicate and explosive in flavours. Who knew that eggplant and pineapple sauce could conjure such an addictive combination? It just takes you one bite to understand why this is one of the most sought-after dishes on the menu. It doesn’t hurt that the dish is absolutely flat-lay-worthy too.

Speaking of beautiful creations, the baked mini charcoal egg tartlets (MYR12++) are also a dreamy match for an Instagram-worthy shot. The contrasting colours of yellow and black would definitely brighten up your plate, and possibly your mood as well. I also love the fact that they don’t taste too sweet. But if all of the mentioned dishes haven’t filled up your tummy, consider ordering the stir fried assorted vegetables with sweet prawns (MYR53++) that has plenty to celebrate: colourful, fresh, tasty, and have I mentioned that it is healthy too? By the way, gluten-free dishes are available to those who have this particular concern.

To end the meal on a sweet note, I take a bite in both the chilled red tea jelly with lychee sorbet (MYR25++) and the salted egg yolk ice cream with tsubu-an and cashew nut (MYR23++); the former is a refreshing palate cleanser, while

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Destinations

Gastro -Orgasmic Gaziantep!

Te x t b y J U H A N K A M A R U D D I N Images by JUHAN KAMARUDDIN & ED JUNAIDI ABU BAKAR

Gaya Travel Magazine team was in Gaziantep, Turkey to cover the GastroAntep International Gastronomy Festival that took place from 12 until 15 September 2019.

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Jointly organised by the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, Gaziantep Governorate and Gaziantep Development Foundation (GAGEV), the GastroAntep International Gastronomy Festival intended to place Gaziantep on the international culinary map since the destination is Turkey’s culinary capital where gastronomes and foodies head to because the area is blessed with fertile soil that produces crops like pistachio (called fistik in local language) and vegetables in abundance. Gaziantep’s richness in gastronomic offerings and heritage earns it a spot within UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network since 2015.

Gaziantep sits within Turkey’s South East region that has been trading with many nations and civilisations since ancient times, receiving products and influences from East and West that enrich its culinary traditions and techniques. The destination is renowned for dishes like lahmacun (delicious flat-crusted pizza topped with spicy meat and herbs), baklava (Turkish pastry sweetened by sherbet, which is a light syrup made from sugar, water, and lemon juice) and kofte (meatball cooked with paste made of cracked wheat and meat then fried).

Besides showcasing various comestibles that hail from various parts of Turkey including neighbouring Syria, GastroAntep International Gastronomy Festival 2019 was attended by many world-class, Michelin-starred celebrity chefs, food industry professionals, gourmands,

gastronomy writers, UNESCO officials, and members of media. Culinary presentations by local and international chefs, including cooking competitions based on Gaziantep ingredients, were also held.

Malaysia’s own Tourism Ambassador for Gastronomy, Dato’ Chef Ismail Ahmad, gave a rousing and entertaining live cooking presentation by demonstrating the preparation of a delicious Kelantanese dish called ayam percik (Malaysian grilled or roasted chicken marinated in spices doused with spicy coconut milk gravy). His exuberance won over the audience, whom at the end of the presentation leapt out of their seats to sample the ayam percik, took photographs with him and even requested for the recipe.

Dato’ Chef Ismail, together with the rest of the entourage from Malaysia, were flown to Gaziantep by Turkish Airlines in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia to promote the Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign. The overwhelming response from the crowd motivated the Turkish Airlines and Tourism Malaysia officials to consider participating in the festival again in 2020 in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year, this time introducing more Malaysian dishes and delicacies as a way to encourage more Turkish citizens to visit Malaysia.

Flying on Turkish Airlines also provided Dato’ Chef Ismail and the Malaysian entourage the opportunity to learn more about Turkish cuisine while flying.

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Top Row from Left: Spices on sale at Zincirli Badestan; Inviting piece of kunefe served at Usta Kadir.

Middle Row from Left: Dato’ Chef Ismail Ahmad presenting ayam percik to the audience during GastroAntep International Culinary Festival; Pistachio coffee at Tahmis Kahvanesi; Dato’ Chef Ismail being explained by Turkish Airlines’ Flying Chef about Business Class signature candle-light dinner at 30,000 feet.

Bottom Row from Left: Stuffed eggplants wrapped in flatbread, a local delicacy; Mouth-watering spread of local delicacies for the public to sample during GastroAntep International Culinary Festival 2019.

Local delights In one of the mornings during GastroAntep International Gastronomy Festival 2019, the participating chefs, food industry professionals and media were brought to a pistachio farm to learn how pistachio is harvested, including munching on local delicacies. Pistachio is crucial in the making of baklava. All participants found the experience authentic and educational because they were able to taste freshly harvested pistachios and satisfying bites like freshly baked flatbread that can be eaten on its own or serve as wrap filled with fresh vegetables and cheese, including stuffed eggplants.

Talking about local delicacies, when in Gaziantep, travellers must savour baklava, which is one of the destination’s specialties. Gaya Travel Magazine team was lucky to be brought to a baklava-making workshop, owned by Omer Gullu, the fifth generation of the family that established the baklava brand Gulluoglu since 1871. The workshop produces up to 1,000 kilograms of baklava each day, mostly made by hand using quality ingredients.

Good to know: Though baklava pieces are typically square-shaped, Omer Gullu’s workshop also produces baklava in the forms of triangle called sobiyet and bird’s nest.

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Clockwise from top: Workers at the baklava workshop cutting the cooked baklava into shape; Cooked baklava immersed in sherbet and being cooled off; Flavourful pistachio baklava at Imam Cagdas; Baklava at Omer Gullu of Gulluoglu; Just harvested pistachio nut ready to be eaten.

Our team witnessed the painstaking process of how the employees at the baklava workshop need to repetitively roll up the dough until it turns into thin, translucent sheets, which are afterwards layered into a tray. Generous amount of clotted cream is slathered on top of the layer of sheets, followed by a layer of early-harvested ground pistachio. As more translucent sheets are stacked atop the ground pistachio, they are sprinkled with clarified butter.

In short, the trip to Gaziantep opened our eyes, mind and soul to the destination’s splendid flavours that all food lovers and epicureans should never miss. Without doubt, Gaziantep is not just the culinary capital of Turkey, but also fast becoming one of the culinary capitals of the world…

Several things you can do when visiting Gaziantep:

Top: Young coppersmith at work at Coppersmith Bazaar Bottom: Inside Zeugma Mosaic Museum

The layers of sheets, clotted cream and ground pistachio inside the tray are then cut into square pieces, clarified butter poured over onto them, then the entire tray pushed into the stone wood-fired oven, a method that has continued for generations. Once cooked, the baklava pieces are again cut into shape before being immersed in boiling liquid sherbet.

Finally, the tray containing the cut baklava pieces is placed on an open rack to cool off.

As we relished the finished baklava, upon each bite, we immediately understood why the Gaziantep version of this pastry is highly prized: the baklava is crispy on the outside but tender in the inside, tasting remarkably wholesome due to the harmonious balance between sweet and buttery with a hint of nuttiness derived from the pistachio. Because of this revelation, Gaya Travel Magazine team members have now become Gaziantep baklava lovers for life!

Tip: When eating baklava, be sure to turn the piece upside down so that the bottom of the baklava hits your palate as it enters your mouth to appreciate its flavour in entirety.

• Shop for baklava as souvenir for loved ones back at home at Omer Gullu of Gulluoglu store (www.omergullu.com.tr).

• Dine at Imam Cagdas (https://www.imamcagdas. com/anasayfa), Gaziantep’s most famous restaurant, to try its kebabs and dishes like the gratifying alenazik (char-grilled smoked eggplant puree mixed with yoghurt and topped with tender lamb stew), baklava and homemade ayran (Turkish yoghurt drink) served in a bowl with ladle.

• Wolf down on variety of lamb kebabs and other gratifying dishes like lamb chop and grilled chicken at Usta Kadir (http://www.kadirusta.net/), including kunefe (crispy cheese-filled pastry dessert).

• Stroll along the bazaars like Bakircilar Carsisi (Handcrafted Copper Bazaar) and Almaci Bazaar filled with spices and food, including the well-built Zincirli Bedestan that has been around since 1781, for shopping and photo-taking.

• Enjoy menengic kahvesi (pistachio coffee) amidst nostalgic and historical setting at Tahmis Kahvesi or Tahmis Cafe (www.tahmiskahvesi.com.tr), which also has another wing located right across the street, offering a more garden-like atmosphere.

• Dine or enjoy drinks at the atmospheric courtyard of the impressively restored building called Bayazhan (https://www.bayazhan.com.tr/), formerly an inn that was first constructed in 1904 but now home to a restaurant, pub, and event space.

• Visit Zeugma Mosaic Museum (https://muze.gov. tr/muze-detay?SectionId=GZN01&DistId=GZN) to admire ancient mosaic designs as old as 2,000 years, salvaged from the ruins of public baths and villas found around the area, which are masterfully-crafted, testifying to the ancient local craftsmen’s excellent workmanship and aesthetics.

The best way to get to Gaziantep is to fly on Turkish Airlines (https://www.turkishairlines.com).

Gaya Travel Magazine team members express our heartfelt gratitude to Turkish Airlines, Tourism Malaysia and Turkish Embassy Tourism & Information Office, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for making our trip to Gaziantep possible.

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Gaya Special Feature

CTM 2019 Signals Cambodia

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has A r r ived as an Inte r national Tour ism Destination Te x t & I m a g e s b y J U H A N KA M A R U D D I N

The third edition of Cambodia’s annual business-to-business (B2B) travel event, Cambodia Travel Mart (CTM), was held in Phnom Penh from 11 until 13 October 2019 at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel, involving over 100 buyers from 34 countries/territories and 22 international media representatives, including travel and tourism industry affiliates. The participating exhibitors from 20 countries/territories opened a total of 157 booths during the event, bringing the total number of people involved in CTM 2019 to 6,000.

CTM is the only large-scale B2B travel event in Cambodia where local and international buyers, suppliers, trade professionals and media meet, network, advance their respective businesses and exchange latest tourism industry developments and ideas regarding destinations and travel trends happening in Cambodia and the rest of the world. Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism (http://www.visitcambodia.org/) collaborated with Phnom Penh-based Slickbooth Event Management Company, including international travel and tourism publisher and event organiser TTG Asia Media, to stage CTM 2019.

Left: The Malaysian Ambassador to Cambodia Mr Eldeen Husaini Mohd Hashim (in black batik) greeted by Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism H.E. Dr. Thong Khon at the Tourism Malaysia booth during CTM 2019.

Right: H.E. Dr Thong Khon giving his welcome address during the opening of CTM 2019

The Minister of Tourism of Cambodia His Excellency (H.E.) Dr. Thong Khon officiated the opening of CTM 2019 on 11 October 2019. During his welcome address, H.E. Dr. Thong Khon announced that Cambodia is well on its way to achieving 6.6 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2019. For the first eight months of 2019, Cambodia already chalked 4.36 million tourist arrivals. At the current rate, Cambodia is confident in hitting the 7 million mark annually by 2020.

The number is expected to rise further in 2021, when Phnom Penh hosts the ASEAN Tourism Forum, an annual event that fosters cooperation among the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in travel and tourism, involving industry players from ASEAN’s 10 member states: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Back in 2018, Cambodia received a total of 6.2 million tourist arrivals, equivalent to USD4.35 billion of tourism receipts, an increase of 19.8% from 2017, and created 620,000 jobs. Mainland China was Cambodia’s top source market in 2018, registering 2,024,443 tourist arrivals.

Vietnam (800,128 tourist arrivals), Laos (426,180), Thailand (382,317) and Malaysia (201,116) were among Cambodia’s top 10 source markets. On top of mainland China, India is also an increasingly important market for Cambodia due to its growth potential.

Due to the close proximity and deepening ties between Cambodia and Malaysia, Tourism Malaysia participated in CTM 2019 to promote #VisitMalaysia2020 (#VM2020).

According to Tourism Malaysia’s Senior Assistant Director from International Promotion Division (Southeast Asia), Mr Nor Shazly Azmi, Malaysia received 40,113 tourist arrivals from Cambodia in 2018, which translated into 109% growth from 2017. From January until July 2019, tourist arrivals from Cambodia grew 20% compared to the same period last

year. Mr Nor Shazly said that Cambodians generally enjoy theme parks and city tours when they are in Malaysia. Due to Cambodia’s fast-growing economy, the expansion of the country’s middle class would result in more Cambodian travellers visiting Malaysia in the coming years.

New initiatives and offerings According to Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism Director of Overseas Tourism Marketing and Promotion Mr Prak Vuthy, the Cambodian government, together with the private sector, has taken various measures to further boost tourism by intensifying the promotion of Cambodian tourism products, especially Siem Reap, Angkor Archaeological Park, ecotourism sites and festivals or mega events. The Ministry of Tourism launched the ‘Kingdom of Wonder’ app in July 2018 too. The app, which is available on Android and iOS, contains all information about Cambodia that travellers need to know, saving them the hassle of having to browse different websites or sources.

In the long run, the government is creating the Development Master Plan for Siem Reap and its surroundings, which includes analyses on new tourism products called Beyond Angkor or Angkor Plus, infrastructure development, institutionalisation of green management, cleaning up of Siem Reap river and upgrading of roads. The Ministry of Tourism also works with relevant ministries, institutes and authorities to set up the Tourism Development Master Plan for Kep and Sihanoukville provinces.

Since Cambodians are generally hospitable and possess welcoming attitude, the Cambodian government plans to boost domestic tourism sector by promoting communitybased tourism, ecotourism and rural tourism as the means to provide more economic opportunity to the people, while reducing poverty at the same time.

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Emphasis is given on gastronomic tourism and food streets are being developed based on public-private partnership to attract more tourists and increase their length of stay.

Apparently, street food tours are already popular in Phnom Penh. Apart from dishes like the increasingly popular Phnom Penh noodle, intrepid travellers should explore the day and night markets to savour crunchy fried grasshoppers, crickets, bugs and tarantulas on sticks as part of their experience in Cambodia. Food lovers are opting for cooking classes to better understand Cambodian culinary heritage.

The top three must-try dishes when being in Cambodia are amok (traditional Cambodian curry), beef loklak (stir fried beef ) and fish prahok (spicy, salty and pungent fermented fish paste).

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Outside Phnom Penh, travellers are able to ride quad bikes (all-terrain vehicle), take up fishing, and learn about rice cultivation. Travellers can even head to Oudong, the kingdom’s old capital between the 17th and 19th centuries before it was shifted to Phnom Penh. Meanwhile, Kep and Kampot continue to be touted as places that travellers should explore once they are done with Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. This is in line with the government’s intention to disperse tourists to other areas throughout Cambodia. In addition, travellers are encouraged to consider Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri, both located in northeast Cambodia, including the Cardamom Mountains in the southwest, which are home to pristine nature. Cambodian islands like Koh Russey and Koh Rong are rapidly opening up as well.

The government is pushing for self-driving as a new option for travellers to discover Cambodia, for example inviting travellers to appreciate travelling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by road, stopping by at Kampong Thom along the way to witness authentic Cambodian lifestyle.

Another step taken by the government to reform the way Cambodia is being marketed is by establishing Cambodia Tourism Marketing and Promotion Board, a joint institution between the government and private sector, comprising representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Civil Aviation Secretariat, Cambodia Association of Travel Agents, Asia Pacific Travel Agents, and Cambodia Angkor Air. During CTM 2019, two relatively new hotels stand out: the 36-key Le Bokor Palace (http://www.lebokorpalace.com.kh/) and the 54-room Palace Gate Hotel & Residence (https:// palacegateapp.com/). The former, situated 1,000 metres above sea level, has just been opened for over a year after Sokha Hotels & Resorts restored the property to its former glory as the place where the elites once converged to escape the heat of the lowlands; the latter has been operational for two years, strategically located in front of the Royal Palace in Phnom

Penh and accentuated with contemporary Cambodian style.

Boosting air connectivity To enhance accessibility to the kingdom, Cambodia Airways (https://www.cambodia-airways.com/), which celebrated its first year anniversary in 2019, plans to expand its fleet in the next few years by using Phnom Penh as its hub to connect to all ASEAN capitals and selected mainland Chinese cities.

Indonesia’s Citilink, Air China and Philippines Airlines have begun flying into Phnom Penh from Jakarta, Beijing and Manila respectively in 2019.

Another airline worth noting is Cambodia Angkor Air (https://www.cambodiaangkorair.com/) – established since 2009 as a joint venture between the kingdom of Cambodia and Vietnam Airlines – which has launched the daily flight between Danang and Siem Reap. Both Vietnam Airlines and Cambodia Angkor Air are partners of CTM 2019. The latter operates mainly within Cambodia, besides linking Cambodia to Vietnam and China through its current stable of seven aircrafts.

The Cambodian market is central to Cambodia Angkor Air, and Vietnam has been attracting Cambodian travellers due to proximity, easy connectivity and historical links.

Cooperation between Phnom Penh and Danang is vital, especially since the flight from Phnom Penh to Danang commences beginning 27 October 2019 as part of its Winter Schedule 2019. The direct flights to Danang from Cambodia are expected to boost two-way tourism, offering wider access for travellers to conveniently access destinations in Cambodia and Vietnam. As a matter of fact, the airline plans to expand more routes by linking all Cambodian destinations directly to Vietnam and China.

Speaking of Danang, this destination is the gateway for travellers to discover heritage spots like Hue, Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary and Son Doong Cave (largest cave in Vietnam discovered in 2010 that is increasingly attracting adventurers). Being the most liveable city in Vietnam, Danang is the place where travellers can experience the French-inspired Bana Hills, Instagram-worthy Golden Bridge, Museum of Cham Sculpture, Linh Ung Pagoda, and Son Tra Night Market. The 29 international direct flights that fly into Danang help to bring in 4,730,507 international tourist arrivals by August 2019.

Conclusion CTM 2019 served as an important platform for Cambodia to share with the domestic and foreign travel and tourism industry players the initiatives taken by the government and latest updates on what travellers can expect when visiting the country, indicating that the event is instrumental to some extent in helping to propel the tourism industry in Cambodia as well as Asia.

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Top from left: One of the Cambodian provincial booths during CTM 2019; Palace Gate Hotel booth during CTM 2019.

Middle: VIPs cutting the ribbon to mark the opening of CTM 2019.

Bottom from Left: An attendant at Cambodia Tourism booth preparing Phnom Penh noodle to be distributed to visitors; Festive Cambodian performance at Cambodia Angkor Air booth during CTM 2019.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Switzerland’s most beautiful panoramic lines Discover and explore the highlights, sights, landmarks and diversity that Switzerland has to offer simply from the comfort of the train by embarking on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, which merges the most beautiful panoramic lines into one unique route of 1,280 kilometres! Whether at Zermatt or St. Moritz, in the Canton of Ticino or the Lavaux, at the Rhine Falls or Lake Lucerne, travellers can hop on and off wherever they please.

The big train adventure is arranged in several route sections offering different focuses. Each section promises thrilling railway adventures, magnificent scenery and numerous opportunities for discovery. And best of all: The entire tour can be explored with one single ticket – the Swiss Travel Pass.

In a nutshell, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland…

• Merges all premium panoramic lines into one route (Luzern–Interlaken Express, GoldenPass MOB Panoramic, Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express) • Includes further railway highlights (Voralpen-Express, Lötschberger, Centovalli-Bahn) • Permits numerous mountain excursions (Rigi, Pilatus, Stanserhorn, Titlis, Brienzer Rothorn, Jungfraujoch, Schynige Platte, Schilthorn, Harder Kulm, Niesen, Glacier 3000, Rochers-de- Naye, Gornergrat, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Säntis) • Combines Swiss cities and Alpine resorts into one round trip (Zurich, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Lugano, Lucerne, St.Gallen, Schaffhausen) • Offers an opportunity to visit sights, landmarks and natural wonders (Chapel Bridge, Chillon Castle, Matterhorn, Rhine Falls); leads to UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Swiss Alps/ Jungfrau/ Aletsch, terraced vineyards of the Lavaux, Rhaetian Railways Albula/Bernina, Castles of Bellinzona, Abbey District St. Gallen) • Offers immersion in the diverse world of Swiss museums (such as FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich, Olympic Museum in Lausanne or Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva) • Runs along the eleven largest lakes (Lake Zurich, Lake Zug, Lake Lucerne, Lake Sarnersee, Lake Lungernsee, Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, Lake Geneva, Lago di Como, Lago di Lugano, Lake Constance) • Traverses 3 Alpine passes (Brünig Pass, Oberalp Pass, Bernina Pass) • Leads through all 4 language regions of Switzerland

Good to know: » Swiss Family Card For families, Swiss public transport is tops The Swiss Travel System is family-friendly. Thanks to the Swiss Family Card, children under 16 years of age travel free of charge on the entire Swiss public transport network as long as they are accompanied by at least one parent holding a Swiss Travel System ticket. The Swiss Family Card can be obtained free of charge. Ask your Rail specialists for details. » Luggage Services Relaxed travel through Switzerland – without bulky luggage or long waiting times

Swiss Travel Pass

Thanks to the innovative and efficient public transport system operating in Switzerland, international visitors can have their luggage transported by train direct to their holiday destination immediately after landing at Zurich Airport. There is no need to waste time waiting for their luggage.

The Swiss Travel Pass is the key to hassle-free travel by public transport throughout Switzerland and the only ticket needed to travel on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. With a single ticket, visitors can travel 3, 4, 8 or 15 days throughout the entire country by train, bus and boat. The ticket includes popular panoramic routes such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line and Gotthard Panorama Express, as well as trams and buses in no fewer than 90 towns and cities. In addition, Swiss Travel Pass holders are entitled to free admission to more than 500 museums nationwide and 50% reduction off most mountain railways.

Tonight in St. Moritz, tomorrow at lunchtime in Berne and arriving at Interlaken in the evening?

While travelling within Switzerland, guests’ suitcases can be picked up at the guest’s hotel on the evening before checkout and dropped off at the destination hotel the next day. This is particularly advantageous for round trips such as the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. There are a wide range of options available that offer simple solutions for travellers’ maximum comfort and convenience. Ask your Rail specialists for details.

The all-in-one ticket

Swiss Travel Guide App

(Free download in the App Store and Google Play Store) The first public transportation app for tourists in Switzerland The Swiss Travel Guide is the ideal public transport app for tourists and the essential companion for travelling by train, bus and boat throughout Switzerland. Thanks to this app, any journey through Switzerland can now be planned to perfection, and the visitor never misses a highlight.

A relaxing boat cruise on Lake Zurich? Or a cultural afternoon at the Matterhorn Museum? The digital travel guide readily inspires tourists during the planning phase of their Switzerland tour. Once arrived, the Swiss Travel Guide indicates local highlights that can be added to the individualised travel cockpit, on an integrated map. The cockpit and help area are accessible at any time, even during offline.

On top of that, the Swiss Travel Guide continuously provides relevant facts and important information regarding the Swiss Travel Pass and its additional benefits. Thanks to the Swiss Travel Guide and direct access to the SBB timetable, guests can maximise the benefits of their journey and never miss a highlight.

Visit grandtraintour.swisstravelsystem.com or myswitzerland.com/ grandtraintour for more information. Also, check out @swisstravelsystem on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

For bookings and enquiries, please contact any of the following Rail Specialists: » Apple Vacations & Convention Sdn Bhd Tel: +6 03 2143 8877 https://applevacations.my/fit/packages/switzerland-swisstravel-pass/ » Boustead Travel Services Sdn Bhd Tel: +6 03 2912 9788 http://bousteadtravel.com/raileurope/ » Pacific World Travel Sdn Bhd Tel: +6 03 2141 3040 http://pacificworld.travel/about/swiss-travel-pass/

Destinations

Xin Chào, Vietnam!

Te x t & I m a g e s b y

MUHAMMAD HASIF BIN MOHD JELANI

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For one who has not yet experienced Vietnam, getting the chance to do so is definitely not to be missed. According to my friends who have been there, Vietnam has so much to offer that stimulates one’s senses and enriches travellers’ wanderlust.

In conjunction with the 15th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City, a media familiarisation trip with the theme ‘#HelloWorld Việt Nam ơi’ – which I participated – was organised to bring international media to the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City and charming Hue. The following are several attractions that my travelling companions and I experienced, which come recommended…

Previous page: The stunning facade of Landmark 81.

From Left to Right: The iconic Saigon Central Post Office; An artist painstakingly completing his work at Phuongnam Lacquerware.

HO CHI MINH CITY

this day.

Vinpearl Luxury Landmark 81 (https://www.vinpearl.com/ landmark81/en/) Housed within Southeast Asia’s tallest skyscraper, Landmark 81, this hotel boasts 223 well-appointed rooms with panoramic city view. The hotel starts from the 47th floor of the 461-metre building, making it the tallest hotel in Vietnam. With the concept of ‘Luxury Defined by Vietnam’, the hotel features facilities with spectacular opulence such as globally-recognised spa, bars and restaurants, observation deck and outdoor swimming pool.

War Remnants Museum The long history of Vietnam War that was once inflicted the people of Vietnam is the major centre of this museum. It largely portrays the horrendous aftermath of the war and how it affects the people of Vietnam to this day. From graphic images and texts, weapons and unexploded ordnances used by the US Army to the grisly representation of prison with a full-scale guillotine brought in by the French and tactual military vehicles, there are so much visitors can learn from this museum. Fair warning, though: the museum might come as disturbing to some and travellers are not recommended to bring children along.

Old Central Post Office This iconic building painted in bright yellow that stands next to the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon was constructed between 1886 and 1891. It remains as one of the city’s most emblematic architectural gems that precisely depicts the French architectural influence. Travellers can still get a glimpse of how the post office looks like during its heyday especially through its vibrant imported tiles, intricately-designed dome ceilings, antique phone booths and more. To note, it still functions as a post office to

Phuongnam Lacquerware Sơn mài or lacquer painting is a traditional Vietnamese painting that infuses local and French techniques. At this workshop, travellers can observe how the artists painstakingly make lacquerware using paint, egg shells and sea shells. It also has its own gallery where travellers can take a closer look of the end products and buy them if they are interested.

About 15th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City Recognised as Mekong’s largest travel event, the 2019 edition took place from 5 until 7 September at Saigon Exhibition & Convention Centre (SECC).

The annual travel expo is a place where international and regional buyers, suppliers, trade professionals and media meet to share and discuss about the latest and new tourism industry development besides opening up opportunities and strengthening ties among industry players. It is also the only national tourism event endorsed by the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism, Vietnam and People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City.

With the theme ‘The Tourism Gateway to Asia’, the event attracted 350 participating companies and brands originating from 62 countries and regions, 300 international and local buyers, including 40 international media.

For more information about this event, browse www.itehcmc.com.

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Soul Ben Thanh (https://soulbenthanh.com/) Soul Ben Thanh is one of the famous restaurants in close proximity to the well-known Ben Thanh Market.

Located within a heritage building, travellers can take in the view of the area while savouring Vietnamese cuisines with a twist such as seafood spring rolls and lotus salad with shrimp, offering diners an unforgettable culinary experience.

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Ký Ức Café & Restaurant (https://kyuccafe.vn/) This restaurant is inspired from the colours of wood and bronze. Living up to its name, which means ‘Memories’, the restaurant also exhibits some of its owner’s vintage collections such as cars, motorbikes and clocks, bringing its guests the fond, nostalgic memories of the bygone era. Foodwise, it offers a combination of Asian and European dishes. Since my travelling companions and I were there for afternoon tea, while taking selfies at this cool place, we also savoured refreshing juices, Vietnamese coffee and snacks.

Saigon Sensation (http://saigonsensation.vn/) This is a lounge and dining cruise that takes travellers along the romantic Saigon River for around three hours.

More than simply taking in the splendid view of the city, travellers are brought along an inspiring culinary journey comprising both Asian and Western traditional cuisines such as steamed seabass roll in nori seaweed with clam, couscous with capsicum sauce, and Vietnamese seafood spring rolls. With a capacity for 120 to 160 diners, the cruise begins its daily journey from Bason Cruise Terminal.

Good to know: For Muslim travellers, there are several halal restaurants around Ho Chi Minh City too such as D’Serai Classic Restaurant, Saigon Green House, Zeytun Restaurant, and D’Nyonya Penang, among others.

Clockwise from Top Left: Shrimp salad served at SOUL Ben Thanh Restaurant & Bar; One of the dramatic gates at the Imperial City; A staff member at Củ Chi Tunnels demonstrating how soldiers hid themselves inside the tunnels during Vietnam War; One of the beautifullydesigned areas inside Ký Ức Cafe & Restaurant.

Can Gio Mangrove Forest Located about 40 kilometres southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, lies a wetland that is recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Zone. The mangrove forest, known as the ‘green lung and kidney of Ho Chi Minh City’, sits on the vast delta of three rivers: Đồng Nai, Vàm Cỏ Đông and Saigon. Among the activities travellers can do here are watching the giant bats, visiting a crocodile swamp and enjoying the 360-degree view of the forest from a birdwatching tower.

Củ Chi Tunnels This one-of-a-kind war museum is widely known for its 250 kilometres of manually-dug underground tunnels that played a critical role to the Viet Cong during Vietnam War. The tunnels – all connected to each other and they served as living areas, storage chambers, hospitals, and kitchens, among others – were used as the base of Viet Cong’s operations. Travellers are bound to be

amazed at how these narrow tunnels were constructed and efficiently worked, notably for its cleverly-made ventilation system that helped the Viet Cong to survive, sometimes for days without going to the surface. Activities that travellers can do include crawling inside the expanded, safer parts of the tunnels, as well as trying their hands on the real M16 riffle.

For Củ Chi Tunnels and Can Gio Mangrove Forest experience, book your tour through Les Rives Authentic River Experience. Browse http://www.lesrivesexperience. com for more information.

HUE Tomb of Khải Định This tomb is a hill-side tomb that was once belonged to the 12th Emperor

he can pray for the country’s prosperity.

Upon finding out about the legend, the first Nguyen lords who governed Hue at that time ordered the pagoda to be built in 1601, hence earning the seventiered pagoda the moniker ‘Pagoda of the Celestial Lady’.

Clockwise from Top Left: The most notable part of the Tomb of Khải Định’s is the grand statue that resembles the emperor; Thien Mu Pagoda stands majestically on a hill; An exclusive and cosy suite at Banyan Tree Lăng Cô; The serene Xung Khiem Pavilion at the Tomb of Tu Duc.

of the Nguyễn dynasty, Khải Định.

Believed to be built from 1920 to 1931, the tomb depicts a majestic blend of Buddhism, Hindu, Roman and Gothic design elements, making it a very aweinspiring cultural gem in Vietnam.

Khải Định, however, was unpopular among his people because of his close association with the French. Besides, the emperor raised taxes by 30 percent too to pay for the construction of the tomb prior to his death in 1925.

Tomb of Tự Đức Emperor Tự Đức was the fourth emperor of Nguyen Dynasty who ruled the kingdom from 1848 to 1883, the longest to reign among the 13 emperors. His tomb is located about eight kilometres from Hue City and was built between 1864 and 1867, long before his death. The completion took a toll on his subjects as they had to pay extra tax to finance it, while some were forced to work unpaid. Interestingly,

the corpse of the king was nowhere in his own tomb because it was said that the king was buried in an unknown, different location.

Hue Imperial City This vast royal complex and fortress that was once walled has been in existence since 140 years ago, surrounded by ancient moats where water was sourced from Huong River, famously known as Perfume River. The main highlight of the complex is the nine-hectare ‘Forbidden Purple City’ that was once can only be accessed by imperial dignitaries. The city was severely damaged during the wars in 1947 and 1968, but now gradually restored and conserved. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.

Thien Mu Pagoda Legend says that there was this one old lady who prophesied about a pagoda on a hill that will be built by a king so

Banyan Tree Lăng Cô (http://www.banyantree.com/en/ vietnam/lang-co) Recently bestowed as Wanderlust Tips Magazine’s 2019 Leading Luxury Resort, Banyan Tree Lăng Cô distinguished itself for its luxurious all-pool villas located between the East Vietnam Sea and Truong Son mountain range. Each villa comes with sun deck and generous living spaces.

The resort encapsulates the inspiration from the Vietnamese dynasties past, also has myriads of state-of-the-art facilities from 18-hole golf-course, well-equipped gymnasium, spa and water sports centre to efficient meeting rooms, making it an ideal luxurious bolthole for both leisure and business guests.

Angsana Lăng Cô (http://www.angsana.com/en/vietnam/ lang-co-central-vietnam) This beach-front resort is nestled within the area of Laguna Lăng Cô.

It boasts 222 stylish suites, with over 100 of them come with private pool.

Perfect for a family staycation, this property offers the perks of a fullfledged resort that include kids club, spa, sports centre, golf club, gymnasium and even meeting rooms for business travellers. But the main highlight is the 300-metre swimming pool that surrounds the entire resort. Angsana Lăng Cô is also earned the title as Wanderlust Tips Magazine’s 2019 Leading MICE Resort.

Gaya Travel Magazine team members extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Promotion Center (Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City) and Wanderlust Tips Magazine for making the writer’s trip to Vietnam possible.

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Destinations

Revving Up Perak via Eat.Travel.Ride.

Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A KERI I m a g e s b y N U R U L S Y I FA A R A M L A N

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There are so many reasons why people pick up riding big bikes in groups: some enjoy the rush of adrenalin, while others appreciate the friendship that comes with it. For the Kingz Motorcycle Group (MG) members, it could be both of them, and more.

The club was established since 15 December 2015, constituting HarleyDavidson riders from Malaysia and Singapore. Being avid motorcyclists, they strive to challenge the misconception that society might have towards bikers by practicing the principles of ride-and-respect. And together with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) and Gaya Travel Magazine, the club also promotes motorcycle tourism through an annual convoy named Eat. Travel. Ride. (ETR), covering various attractions along each journey.

In 2019, the journey took them on a 210-kilometre plus expedition from Kuala Lumpur to Perak, the Land of Grace. Multiple stops at the state’s iconic landmarks were made, but more importantly, the members also paid a visit to Sekolah Semangat Maju, Ipoh, Perak, a school dedicated for students with learning difficulties. On top of monetary donation, Kingz MG members delighted the students by giving them fun rides on their respective Harley-Davidson motorbikes.

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Ipoh Railway Station, Ipoh Some call it as the ‘Taj Mahal of Ipoh’, thanks to its gorgeous Neo-Moorish/Indo-Saracenic architecture designed by the architect Arthur Benison Hubback, whose stint in India heavily inspired his works. In fact, many of his other works shared similar influence, including the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station (completed 1910), the Jamek Mosque (completed 1909) and the old KL city hall building (completed 1904).

Take a lazy stroll around the building, and you’ll see how easy it is to be lost in time because most of the parts here are still well-intact; perhaps, this was also the reason why it was chosen to be the set for Jodie Foster’s Anna and the King. Today, the station is still in operation, served by the KTM Electric Train Services (ETS).

Ubudiah Royal Mosque, Kuala Kangsar Gleaming gloriously under the sun against contrasting blue sky, this royal mosque is dubbed as one of the most beautiful mosques in Malaysia. Designed by Hubback too, the building features striking gilded golden domes, four minarets and 16 turrets. However, not many knew that the original version of the mosque was slightly simpler; the domes were initially made of concrete before they were rebuilt using aluminium in the 1970s. The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Idris Murshidul Adzam Shah, the 28th Sultan of Perak (1887 – 1916), as part of His Royal Highness’s expression of gratitude to The Almighty after recovering from an illness.

Kellie’s Castle, Batu Gajah Possibly one of the most famous landmarks of the state, Kellie’s Castle keeps drawing visitors with its impressive yet unfinished architecture. Its mysterious aura invites paranormal seekers; however, come daytime, this spectacular building makes a beautiful subject for architectural photography. The castle was built by William Kellie-Smith, a Scottish civil engineer and rubber plantation owner, for his beloved wife, Agnes, but sadly was never completed due to his untimely death. The wife then decided to sell it before she and her children returned to Scotland.

Taiping Lake Garden, Taiping There’s no place that represents Taiping better than its Lake Garden; it is so serene and peaceful that it gives a nod to the town’s name, which means ‘everlasting peace’ in Hokkien. The lake was formerly an abandoned tin mine, but now flourishes

as a lush green sanctuary consisting of a sprawling calm lake and ancient rain trees. Today, travellers can see common families having picnic and locals enjoying the area’s pleasant atmosphere while jogging.

Leaning Tower, Teluk Intan Today considered as a national heritage, the Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan is no stranger to many. This pagoda-styled structure was completed in 1885 by a contractor named Leong Choon Chong, in which its original purpose was to serve as a water reservoir during dry season and in the event of fire.

And since the tower was built on a soft ground, the weight of the water tank eventually leaned it slightly to the southwest direction. From the outside, the tower looks like an eightstorey structure, though in reality, it only comprises three storeys. This iconic structure also features a chiming clock designed by JW Benson-Ludgathy, which still chimes to this day.

Kampung Kacang Puteh, Ipoh Many of the community members in Kampung Kacang Puteh today descended from the first-generation migrants from Tamil Nadu. They were brought into what was then Malaya by the British to clear land, but some with entrepreneurship talent and unique skill in making Indian snacks started a small business, particularly selling light bites known as ‘kacang puteh’ or steamed lentils (‘kacang kuda’), as a side income. The business eventually flourished, and more and more families joined into the bandwagon to offer different varieties of snacks, like murukku, fried nuts and potato chips, and therefore expanded the industry into what we see today. It is believed that over 100 types of Indian snacks are now produced and sold at this village.

WHERE TO STAY IN IPOH M Roof Hotel & Residences (https://mroof.mboutiquehotels.com/) Appealing to leisure and business travellers alike, especially those who are creatively inclined, M Roof Hotel & Residences is a boutique accommodation filled with quirky little touches and supreme comfort for a guaranteed good night’s sleep. The rates start at MYR185 for superior rooms; for bigger space and flexibility, families or groups can enjoy the serviced residences starting from MYR450 for a two-bedroom apartment.

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Enchanting Egypt Exploring the country with Cleopatra Travel & Tours

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“...and so I took this beautiful trip to Egypt. It was the first time ever in my whole life I took three weeks off, and I sailed down the Nile and I saw the tombs and the temples, and I experienced a place that was so magical and so incredibly powerful and intelligent and inspiring.� ~ Alicia Keys

Destinations

Mediterranean Sea Tanis

Alexandria

Dead Sea The Great Pyramid of Giza

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le R

Sphinx

Cairo

ive r

Saqqara Dahshur Maydum Lahun

Memphis

Sinai Herakleopolis

Nile Rive r

Bent Pyramid

Giza

Heliopolis

Beni Hasan Amarna

Hermopolis

Eastern Desert

Badari Qau Akhmim

Asyut

Western Desert

Thinis

Abydos Temple

Red Sea Dendera

Abydos

Karnak

Naqada Valley of the Kings and Temple of Hatshepsut Hierakonpolis

Luxor Temple

Edfu

of Luxor

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EGYPT

Temple of Ramses III Temple of Horus

Nile River

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Kom Ombo

Aswan Philae

Temple of Ramses II

Philae Temple

Abu Simbel

Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A KERI Images by SHAHIDA SAKERI,PIXABAY, UNSPLASH

It seems like there are not enough adjectives in the world to describe Egypt; but one thing for sure, the country that witnessed the birth of one of the earliest and impactful civilisations the world had ever seen, possesses the ability to touch many travellers’ hearts. The charm is simply irresistible. But don’t let the mindboggling mythology, impressive ancient architecture and the longest river in the world blind you from the fact that the country offers unique cultural immersion not to be found anywhere else. And oh, the Egyptians are incredibly hospitable too. I enjoyed every moment in Egypt and developed fresher perspectives on life during my trip.

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EGYPT AT A GLANCE • The local currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (also known as LE). At the time of writing, LE100 equals to approximately MYR 26. However, based on my experience, the money changers in Klang Valley tend to set the rates higher (LE100 ≈ MYR30) due to lower stock of the notes. Instead, stretch your money further by changing them at certified money changers in Egypt. USD and EUR are accepted at most places too, but keep in mind that it will be cheaper to shop in local currency.

• Malaysian nationals may stay in Egypt for up to two weeks without visa.

• The country operates on a 220V supply voltage, with primary sockets being European, 2-pin variety.

• Taxis and Uber are relatively cheap in Cairo. There are three types of taxis: black taxis are without meter and airconditioning; white taxis are the upgraded versions of the black taxis with meter and air-conditioning; and yellow taxis are professionally run but are the most expensive.

• Tipping or baksheesh is a common practice here, so do expect to give it for almost everything such as entering public toilets and asking for directions to taking shots of those endearing camels. But before you get upset with this, do understand that many locals here are paid such low salaries, therefore your tips may help them with their livelihood. Besides, you won’t have to fork out much – LE5, LE10 and LE20 are the normal rates, depending on the services given.

• Some of the museums and temples charge a small fee for photography. Expect to pay between LE50 and LE100.

• Weekend falls on Fridays and Saturdays in Egypt. This means many points of interest will be busier during these days than the rest of the week.

• The best time to visit Egypt is during springtime, when the weather is pleasant and major attractions are fairly quiet.

The peak season here is wintertime, from December to February.

• Be sure to pack loose clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen and hat as the sun can be unbearable. Also, comfortable shoes are handy since most of the temples and tombs are not high-heels-friendly.

• Expects to wake up extremely early for most of the sightseeing activities to avoid the searing mid-morning till midafternoon sun. Don’t worry, you will be able to catch up on your sleep in your air-conditioned room afterwards during mid-day because tours usually resume late afternoon.

From Left to Right: Colossi of Memnon (Image by Doreen Sawitza from Pixabay); Inscriptions on columns at Karnak Temple, Luxor; The Hanging Church, Old Cairo; The Sphinx (Photo by Kévin Langlais on Unsplash); Pyramids Park Resort Hotel, Giza.

Why Exploring Egypt with an Organised Tour is the Better Option?

Though visiting Egypt on your own is doable, going with reliable tour operators will free you from stressful planning and confusing arrangements. One such operator is Cleopatra Travel & Tours (www.cleopatra2u.com), which promises impeccable service, offering value-for-money packages that include comfortable accommodations, meals, transport, and entrance fees. Besides, Cleopatra Travel & Tours also provides professional Egyptologists throughout the trip who are experts in Ancient Egypt history, which at times can be overwhelming and difficult to understand.

One strong advantage that I loved the most about going with Cleopatra Travel & Tours is the high-level security given to its clients. This was made evident during our group’s trip to Khan el Khalili market, where we were accompanied by a security guard who made sure that we had pleasant shopping experience, free from scammers and pickpockets. On top of these, Cleopatra Travel & Tours has strong ties with the Malaysian Embassy in Cairo, hence travellers can be rest assured that the embassy will be alerted right away should anything goes wrong.

Cleopatra Travel & Tours is helmed by Ms. Waheedah Hanifa, a champion in the field of education before jumping

into tourism in 2015, a decision that led to the establishment of her own travel company the following year. She places strong emphasis on giving her clients quality service and dares to shake up this once male-dominated industry. With her unrivalled dedication and strong professional team, a fulfilling travel experience in Egypt is guaranteed.

EXPLORING EGYPT Cairo The Egyptian Museum Start the tour right with a glimpse of Egypt’s yesteryear. This outstanding museum is divided into two floors, overflowing with impressive relics originating from as far back as the Old Kingdom of Ancient Egypt to the Greco-Roman period.

Of course, the main highlight would be the Royal Mummy Room, which requires an additional fee to enter, but proven to be a priceless experience when travellers witness the mummies of famous pharaohs such as Ramesses II, who not only reigned for six decades and built more monuments than any other Egyptian kings, but also believed by some historians to be the pharaoh who fit the narrative in the Bible and the Quran. This museum is wheelchair accessible, but its massive size can prove challenging for those who are time constraint.

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Top to Bottom: Felucca ride along the Nile (Photo by Flying Carpet on Unsplash); Khan el-Khalili Market, Old Cairo.

The Hanging Church Considered as one of the oldest Christian religious sites in Egypt and one of the most beautiful buildings in the country, the Hanging Church obtained its name from its unique position on top of a gatehouse of a Roman fortress. However, since the ground level had been raised over time, spectators can no longer see the special ‘hanging’ effect anymore. To make up for this loss, step inside this precious architectural gem and get ready to be impressed by top-notch craftsmanship that are evident on the church’s elaborate inlaid screens, marble pulpit and timber roof resembling Noah’s Ark. Truly, this church is an artwork of its own.

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The Old Market Khan el Khalili Navigating Khan el Khalili, or also known as Turkish Bazaar, in the lively heart of Old Cairo is an experience that every traveller should give a go. This bustling souk is a shopping haven for travellers who hunt for Egyptian treasures, including spices, silver jewelleries and carpets.

The market’s soaring arches, limestone walls and intricate wood panelling that have stood the test of time since the Middle Ages are absolute feast for the eyes.

Keep in mind that haggling is part of the experience here.

Prices have already been set to compensate, so start with a low asking price (around 70% off ) so that you would have some room to bargain. Also, having a handy stash of small notes is always a good idea. Market stalls rarely have enough change to deal with a large bill, so you may be persuaded to take more than what you wanted. But if you really don’t have small notes at the time, give the vendor a heads-up before deciding to buy and passing your big note.

GIZA The Pyramids Complex (Necropolis) The pyramids are possibly the most iconic face of Egypt, second to none. Their sheer size, outstanding precision and remarkable ancient engineering remained unmatched for over 3,800 years; but what were the reasons for these impressive structures to be built in the first place?

The answer lies in the ancient Egyptians’ belief in the afterlife, and that the pharaohs were the chosen

mediators on earth between them and the gods. This was also arguably the reason why it was in everyone’s interest to dedicate their time to serve for their kings. Hence, when a pharaoh died, his or her body was mummified and placed in a royal tomb together with everything that he or she might need to proceed to the next world and become one with the gods. It was not uncommon for these royal tombs to be grand in scale, but interestingly, pyramids were only favoured by the rulers of the Old Kingdom. During Egypt’s New Kingdom, the burial sites were replaced by tombs that were carved into the mountainside as we can find at the Valley of the Kings.

The pyramids we see today at Giza were just a shadow of their former selves. They were originally covered with highlypolished white limestone that glistened under the sun for hundreds of miles across the desert. They were completed within 20 years by skilled craftsmen and builders, using different types of stones that were shipped from several quarries along the Nile by boat during flood.

The oldest and largest of the pyramid at the site, known as the Great Pyramid, belonged to Pharaoh Khufu, surrounded by three small pyramids built for his queens, including a small tomb dedicated for his mother, Queen Hetepheres.

The second tallest pyramid here was built for Khufu’s son, Khafre, which is accompanied by the Great Sphinx whose role was to guard the area. The shortest of the three pharaoh pyramids, but gigantic in size nonetheless, was built for Khafre’s son, Menkaure.

ASWAN The Temple of Philae Said to be the last ancient temple constructed in the classical Egyptian style, this house of worship was dedicated to the goddess Iris, who according to Egyptian mythology was the daughter of Geb (the earth god) and Nut (the sky goddess).

She was a role model to many women during ancient times, often considered as the goddess of magic, love, motherhood, and fertility. The temple was originally erected under the instruction of the 30th dynasty pharaoh, Nectanebo I, but eventually received later additions during the Greek, Roman and Byzantine periods, turning the place gradually larger over time. The complex was partially flooded during the early 20th century due to the construction of the Aswan Low Dam. In fear of further destruction due to the plans for a second dam, UNESCO launched a salvation project that relocated the temples to a higher ground on Agilkia Island.

The Temple of Kom Ombo This temple is unique as it served as a double temple; one half dedicated to Horus (the sky deity that was represented in the form of a falcon) while the other to the crocodile deity, Sobek. It was erected during the Greco-Roman period on a riverbank where sacred crocodiles once basked in the sun.

One of the most intriguing features here are the engravings

that depict what is believed to be the first representations of medical and surgical instruments like forceps, scalpels, scissors and prescriptions, including two goddesses sitting on birthing chairs! Conclude your exploration of this site by visiting the mini crocodile mummification museum next door to gawk at real, large crocodile mummies!

The Nubian Villages A short boat ride from Aswan town will take you to the Elephantine Island, where vividly painted houses and warm smiles await. They belong to the Nubians, who moved from southern Egypt and northern Sudan thousands of years ago to start farming along the Nile. But when the government began the High Aswan Dam project in the 1960s, most of them were relocated to Aswan, including the Elephantine Island. Today, the Nubians still retain their unique culture and language, making a day of exploration here truly memorable.

Riding the Felucca A lazy-pace ride on the felucca (a traditional wooden sailing boat) is wonderful, especially after a long day of absorbing complex Egyptian mythologies at the temples.

The experience usually takes roughly an hour or so, around Elephantine Island and Kitchener’s Island.

Cruising along the Nile Honestly, there would be no conversation about Egypt’s old civilisations without the River Nile. It formed the basis of many ancient beliefs, including what it was thought to be the passage from life to the afterlife. The ancient Egyptians based their calendar on the river cycles, referring them as Akhet (the flood season), Peret (the growing season) and Shemu (the harvest season). Interestingly, the fascination towards the Nile does not stop there. The river even makes regular appearances in literary works in the modern era such as in Agatha Christie’s ‘Death on the Nile’, set to be turned into a Hollywood remake in 2020 starring Gal Gadot and Armie Hammer. So, before the movie arrives, why not experience this breezy bliss (without the tragedy, of course) for yourself ?

The large suites aboard the houseboat that travellers put up during the cruise come with comfortable bedding, en suite bathroom and panoramic window that affords scenic sights as the world passes by slowly. Buffet-style restaurants, spa, swimming pool and lounge further add comfort. Nevertheless, the ship’s best spot is on the deck with a book in hand to enjoy fresh breeze and wave at local villagers going about their daily lives along the water lines.

From time to time, you would be approached by souvenir salesmen riding on a small boat, offering things from towels to table clothes. Voyaging along the Nile is best done from November to February when the weather is more pleasant with little chance of desert sandstorms, locally called khamsins.

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The Abu Simbel Temples Perhaps the most popular icon besides the pyramids of Giza is Abu Simbel, which comprises two temples commissioned

by Ramesses II during the golden age of Egypt. The Great Temple, characterised by four colossal statues of the pharaoh sitting down, was dedicated to himself, while the other was for his favoured first wife, the beautiful Queen Nefertari. It is said that twice in a year, around 22 February and 22 October, the sun beams right into the inner sanctuary of the Great Temple, illuminating the three statues inside it, including one of the pharaohs. Egyptologists believe these dates mark the pharaoh’s coronation and birth. In the 1960’s, the temples were moved from their original site to save them from being inundated by the Aswan Dam. The journey to Abu Simbel takes around three hours by bus or car from Aswan, but certainly worth the journey!

EDFU The Temple of Edfu Looking at the grand towering pylon (the typical monumental gateway of an Egyptian temple) of the Edfu Temple, it’s easy to see why one would feel easily overwhelmed, if not intimidated, just by the sight of it – the size is frighteningly gargantuan! This pylon, along with other features of the temple, is considered as among the best preserved Egyptian architectural wonders due to its relatively young age. It was built during the Ptolemaic period and completed roughly within 180 years. Thanks to the inscriptions on its walls, archaeologists managed to uncover information on language, myth and religion of the GrecoRoman period in Ancient Egypt.

LUXOR The Valley of the Kings Ideal for all the Lara Crofts in the world, a visit to the Valley of the Kings is bound to satiate your curiosity on the death rituals and burial rites of the ancient Egyptians.

After all, this valley was the main burial site of the kings and important nobles of the New Kingdom. 60 tombs were found in this site, but only eight are available for viewing. Two of them require additional fees, while the entry to three of the remaining six comes with the entrance ticket to the valley. I suggest that you enter the tombs of Rameses III, Rameses IV and Rameses IX, as they are the most vibrant and bestpreserved. If you are feeling brave, be sure to visit the tomb of King Tutankhamun – the youngest pharaoh in Ancient Egypt – where his mummy is still in its original resting place.

Though word got around that a mummy’s curse would befall on those entering the tomb, followed by illnesses or deaths, this remains merely a legend.

The Colossi of Memnon Amenhotep III was reputed to be as a respected pharaoh who brought prosperity to Egypt. One of the most prominent feats during his reign was his refusal to send Egyptian women as wives to foreign rulers. Some historians believed that since he was loved by many, his mortuary complex was larger and grander than anything ever built in the kingdom. However, it was now gone due to forces of nature and the old practice of upcycling materials from older monuments to make new structures. The only remaining traces of the complex are the Colossi of Memnon, referring to two massive statues in the form of seated Amenhotep III that once guarded the complex.

The Luxor Temple Modern-day Luxor was part of Thebes, the capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom era. Many important monuments and religious sites were erected within this city, including the construction of of the Luxor Temple commenced by Amenhotep III and gradually expanded until Rameses II’s time. These new additions were systematically added in front of the older sections, thus today’s visitors will encounter the temple in reverse chronological order.

Clockwise from Top: The facade of the Great Temple at Abu Simbel (Photo by AussieActive on Unsplash); The tomb of Ramses IV at Valley of the Kings, Luxor; Edfu Temple (Photo by Samer Khodeir on Unsplash); Karnak Temple, Luxor.

Luxor Temple was especially important for the Opet Festival, when the statues of Amun, Mut and Khonsu were brought from Karnak to this site. During the Christian era, the temple’s hypostyle hall was converted into a church. Over time, the whole complex became buried under the sand, as most of the other ancient temples. The mosque of Sufi Shaykh Yusuf Abu al-Hajjaj was later built over it. When the temple was eventually uncovered, the mosque was preserved and became an integral part of the complex. The temple is gorgeous in daylight, but even more romantic during the night.

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20th century, uncovered her. It appeared that the renovation of the mortuary temple during the time of Thutmose III was incomplete, therefore the temple’s original inscriptions mentioning the glories of Hatshepsut remains visible to this today.

The Karnak Temple Karnak is the largest religious site in the country, covering 250 hectares of land filled with temples and chapels, obelisks and statues dedicated to the deities Amun, Mut and Khonsu. Its construction began in the Middle Kingdom and continued into the Ptolemaic period, with involvement of approximately 30 pharaohs including Hatshepsut and Thutmose III, all proudly left their own architectural mark over a span of 2,000 years that eventually made the temple’s design so uniquely diversified. The most outstanding feature here would be the Great Hypostyle Hall, which is so enormous that it could fit the entire Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Hatshepsut Temple, Luxor.

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The Temple of Hatshepsut The story of Hatshepsut, to me, is the most intriguing of all.

She was the daughter of the pharaoh Thutmose I, and the first wife of Thutmose II, who was also her half-brother – a common practice in the ancient times to maintain the purity of the royal bloodline. They had only one daughter called Neferu-Ra. Hence, when Thutmose II died, the throne naturally was passed down to his son, Thutmose III, born to the second wife. However, since Thutmose III was still a child at that time, Hatshepsut was appointed as the regent until he came of age.

In the seventh year of her regency, she made a daring power play against the system and the society, by appointing herself as the pharaoh, making her the first female ruler in Ancient Egyptian history. Some might claim that she was power-hungry, yet most historians agreed that she eventually won her people’s hearts with roughly two decades of peaceful reign. Unlike her predecessors, she forwent military conquests and instead brought vast riches to her kingdom through highly profitable trading expeditions, the famous one being the trip to Punt (possibly the modern-day Somalia) that marked the first known successful attempt at transplanting foreign trees on Egyptian soil.

Hatshepsut erected many ambitious building projects to solidify her place as a rightful pharaoh, but the most glorious work was her mortuary temple near the Valley of the Kings, which was designed to tell her story. Unfortunately, soon after her death, Thutmose III destroyed all traces of her reign, by erasing her name, crushing her statues and replacing her images with his own. She was disappeared from history until thousands of years later when an excavation project led by Howard Carter, a British archaeologist in the early

Experiencing sleeper train from Luxor to Cairo Travelling by train is arguably a quintessential Egyptian experience. The rail network here is extensive and fares are generally affordable. For added comfort and privacy, opt for the sleeper train, which is the highest class of rail travel in the country, but do take note that it is not luxurious by any means. Each cabin comes with two bunk beds, fresh linen, washbasin, two hand towels and ample power sockets. There are also washrooms located at the end of each carriage. On top of these, the fare includes a hearty local dinner and a breakfast.

Gaya Travel Magazine team members express our heartfelt gratitude to Cleopatra Travel & Tours for making our trip in Egypt smooth sailing. Syukran!

9-day 8-night Egypt packages by Cleopatra Travel & Tours start at

MYR3,810*

* Prices do not include return flights from Kuala Lumpur to Cairo.

For more information, contact Ms. Waheedah at +6012 - 311 4020 or waheedah@cleopatra2u.com Website: www.cleopatra2u.com

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The facade of Vredeburg Museum (Image by Fakhri Labib on Unsplash)

Destinations

Yogyakarta, Gracefully

Manoeuvring into Modernity Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K E R I Images by SHAHIDA SAKERI, UNSPLASH

Yogyakarta is the only royal city in Indonesia today, where its sultan still holds political power, following a 2012 law that declared the city’s sultan as the ex-officio governor, permanently. This system, along with many other customs and traditions, testify to the people of Yogyakarta’s pride in their identity and reverence towards aristocracy.

Its current ruler, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, is a modern man no less, but like his people, he strongly embraces his roots. The ancient customs and rituals infused with Hindu mysticism, Buddhism and animistic origins, still harmoniously practiced alongside Islam, the main religion of Indonesia. It is even said that every year, offerings are made to the nearby Mount Merapi and the Indian Ocean, the two sacred sites according to Javanese cosmology that meant to guarantee the safety of Yogyakarta’s residence.

And what lies at the centre that connects the northsouth axis between Mount Merapi and the Indian Ocean? It is The Kraton, also known as the Palace of Yogyakarta, which is open to the public from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. every day, except on Fridays and Saturdays, which closes at 11:00 a.m. Travellers

should come here to understand the locals’ genuine affection towards the ruling family and the heritage that they bear. This traditional Javanese complex was built around 1755 and 1756 under the reign of Sultan Hamengku Buwono I. Expect to see intricately decorated pavilions, cultural centres, well-kept courtyards and ancient banyan trees, all integrated beautiful landscaping based on Javanese ancient beliefs.

The Kraton has seven zones altogether here, which include the Hamengku Buwono IX museum, the painting museum, and the regalia museum. Wander further, and you may also encounter the Abdi Dalem, faithful caretakers of the royal household attending to their duties, dressed in uniforms. At one corner, one may also find the female Abdi Dalem lost in concentration while painting batik fabrics by hand.

Interestingly, this noble position in the palace is also passed down from a generation to the next, similar to the monarchy system.

On weekends, visitors may enjoy cultural performances of gamelan, dances and even the special wayang kulit or leather puppet show.

Important to know: Visitors to the palace are advised to dress modestly with the knees covered.

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Clockwise from Top Left: An Abdi Dalem painting the batik at Kraton Yogyakarta; the female vendor at Beringharjo Market (Image by Geri Mis on Unsplash); Colourful parade of Wayang Jogja Night Carnival 2019 and the writer taking in the grandeur of Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travellers can dive deeper into the history of Yogyakarta by making a trip to the colourful Kotagede, once a capital of the Kingdom of Mataram, founded by Panembahan Senopati in 1582, who used to rule the whole island of Java.

But like many other conquests in the world, he not only attracted friends and allies but also foes. Thus, during its peak, Kotagede was fully fortified with thick walls to protect against invasions.

More than four hundred years later, Kotagede, nowadays more aptly referred to as an old town, still draws people in with its maze-like neighbourhoods, thriving silver crafting industry and well-preserved Mataram ruins, including the Royal Cemetery Complex, where Mataram’s founder and his successors were laid to rest.

Strict development policy in the town also leads to the preservation of colourful, traditional houses dating back from the 17th century, making the entire atmosphere an absolute feast for the eyes. These houses are still owned by the locals and mostly serve as residences. Some are transformed into an open-air museum and cafes, such as the gorgeous Kopi Kamu Café that is replete with antiques. There are also a number of workshops around the area where visitors can purchase artisanal silver crafts, from jewelleries to tea sets.

Important to know: 1. To enter the Royal Cemetery Complex, one is required to dress in traditional attire: Javanese beskap for men, and shoulder-exposing batik kemben or torso wrap for women.

2. There are also homestays available at Kota Gede should visitors wish to experience local stay. Contact Ms. Endini to make arrangement. (+6285801194130 / endinidharma@gmail.com)

Speaking of shopping, visitors should not miss the opportunity to explore Malioboro, a one-kilometre vibrant street lined with stalls selling everything from food, arts and crafts, batik, and collectibles in which all are sold at affordable prices. Along this street, visitors will also find Beringharjo Market, mainly carries textiles at competitive rates, so be sure to bargain before purchasing any. Spend a few hours here to shop, interact with locals, or merely watch people – you will then understand how this area becomes one of the best places in the city to absorb the Yogyakarta vibe in its entirety. Across the street, travellers can visit an art gallery housed in a Dutch fort called Vredenburg.

Good to know: The usual operating hours at Malioboro are between 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., but some stalls remain open until midnight.

On top of the customs, history, monarchy, and architecture, Yogyakarta’s intricate cultural identity also lies in its art. If travellers happen to visit the city on October 7th every year, which also happens to be Yogyakarta’s anniversary, do not miss the annual street parade called ‘Wayang Jogja Night Carnival’. This year, the carnival returned for the fourth time with the theme ‘Ringgit Wanara Kagungan Dalem Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadinigrat’, also known as ‘Wayang KapiKapi’ belonging exclusively to Kraton Yogyakarta and rarely exhibited to the public. The show touched on the concept of unity and incorporated 14 characters of hybrid animals, including ‘Wayang Kapi Harima’ that has a monkey body and a tiger head.

ATTRACTION NEAR YOGYAKARTA Borobudur Temple Situated an hour and a half ’s drive from Yogyakarta, Borobudur is the world’s biggest Buddhist temple. This architectural marvel features stacked platforms – the lower five in the shape of square and the top three in circular form – with a huge stupa on top. 72 smaller stupas, each containing a sitting Buddha statue, are strategically placed on the circular platforms. Impressively, this beautiful monument has survived multiple volcanic eruptions and the 2006 earthquake. Every year, the temple attracts pilgrims all over the world, who walk along its passageways in a clockwise direction to the summit while admiring the detailing on the walls representing Buddha’s journey to enlightenment and taking in the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Gaya Travel Magazine team says thank you to Yogyakarta City Government Tourism Office for making the writer’s trip to the city smooth-sailing.

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Destinations

Kuala Lumpur for All 070

Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K E R I Images by N U R U L S Y I FA A RA M LA N & H AU N T U M A LAY S I A

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is diverse, multihued, multifaceted, and of course, welcoming. Whether you are artistically-inclined, or a history buff, the city always offers something exciting for everyone, as it is indeed the city for all.

Read on to find out about the best places that can enrich your Kuala Lumpur experience.

Top from left: A mural of little girl smiling at passers-by at Kwai Chai Hong; antique keris used in the olden days exhibited at Royal Malaysia Police Museum Bottom from left: Hauntu KL is a spine-chilling mix of theatre performance, role playing and storytelling; MaTiC offers free cultural show daily.

FOR HISTORY BUFFS & CULTURE VULTURES Kwai Chai Hong (Facebook: @kwaichaihong) To those who understand Cantonese, the name kwai chai, which literally means ‘little devil’ in English or toyol in Malay, sounds so peculiar when it refers to this colourful, Instagrammable laneway tucked between Lorong Panggung and Petaling Street. But as you dig deeper, you will discover that the alley possesses much darker past, known for as a haven for drunkards, drug addicts, gamblers and gangsters.

Some, however, believed that the name referred to naughty children who liked to prank people there. Nevertheless, those stories are now in the past.

Today, after receiving a successful face lift by five passionate locals from Bai Chuan Management, the alley sports a spanking new image.

The company restored 10 quaint

Guangdong Xiguan-style storehouses along the street to their former glory, and added six impressive murals to the walls. Interestingly, these murals, which depict eminent characters of the Chinese community back in the 1960s, also come with interactive QR codes that allow visitors to listen to conversations or music made by these characters. Of course, the entire place has beautiful atmosphere for taking selfies, but we reckon what makes this place even more special are its original elements that are still preserved to this day, such as Kuala Lumpur’s oldest lamp post, standing at its original position since around 1903. The laneway is open to the public for free every day, but closes at 6 p.m.

Royal Malaysia Police Museum This hidden gem sits quietly at Jalan Perdana, which used to be an archive for police trainees’ references. Then, the place was revamped and transformed into a museum boasting interesting

exhibits about the history and the work of the police force in Malaysia. Gallery A navigates visitors through a time tunnel as they are introduced to the history of the formation of the police force in Malaysia, from the early days of the Melaka Sultanate until today.

Gallery B, the more exciting section, are for those who are into mysteries, as they get to have a closer look at confiscated weapons and evidences from historic cases in the past. The following Gallery C studies catastrophic periods or events in Malaysian history and incorporates in-depth explanation about the role of police during those periods, including during the time of Communist insurgency.

The museum opens every day except Mondays, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and closes between 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Fridays. The admission is free.

T: +6 03 2272 5689; +6 03 2272 5690; +6 03 2273 4740

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Malaysia Tourism Centre (matic.gov.my/en/) Located within a walking distance to the golden triangle of the city, the Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC) is a one-stop-centre for all travellers in need of services or information before they explore the rest of Malaysia. It is housed in a colonial building that used to belong to a wealthy mining and rubber estate tycoon, Eu Tong Seng, and includes facilities like information counter, money changer, tourist police counter, travel agencies and ticketing counter, including two specialty shops selling Malaysian-made crafts: Karyaneka and Harriston Chocolate Boutique. This is also where travellers can embark on the Hop On Hop Off bus to explore the best attractions the city could offer. Those who have time to kill can follow the free cultural dance show happening every day from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the mini auditorium.

FOR THRILL-SEEKERS Hauntu Malaysia (ihauntu.com) As you step into Colle Eastern Hotel – a fictional setting, complete with impressive props and even more impressive actors – you are bound to experience a nightmarish haunted house adventure like no other. Players are invited to take on character roles within a story line and interact with fellow cast members while dealing with

the paranormal events happening all around. Think of it as a spine-chilling mix of theatre performance, role play and storytelling. The best part? No two endings are the same as it highly depends on how you play it out. The theme or episode in Hauntu Malaysia changes every few months, so be sure to visit repeatedly to experience them all. Each session accommodates a maximum of 10 players, costing MYR58 per person.

FOR CREATIVE SOULS Bingka KL (www.bingka.my) Helmed by two dynamic and lovable duo, Adrihana and Emmalyn, this home-grown brand celebrates the identity of Malaysia in the forms of striking colours and bold designs uniquely placed onto silkscreen items, ranging from accessories to household products. Expect to see many local elements like delicacies, animals and vintage objects being featured, carefully selected to evoke nostalgic memories of each Malaysian. The items also make an ideal souvenir for friends who live abroad. We love the gorgeous pouches and bags from Bingka KL that make endearing fashion statement, while the lovely tea towels definitely brighten up any dull kitchen. Bingka KL also collaborated with giant Japanese retailer, Uniqlo, by creating a unique collection depicting local delicacies.

Interested buyers may purchase the

products online, or via their retail partners such as APOM, Ilham Gallery and Naiise.

CrazePop by Nur (Instagram: @crazepop) Delicious bites and creative designs make a drooling combination, and that is what CrazePop offers. Founded in 2011 by the passionate Nurliza Mohd Jonis, affectionately known as Nur, CrazePop is known for their delicate and oh-so-cute cake pops, cake balls and cakesicles suitable for any occasion.

She begins the process by crumbling the cake and mixing them with ‘binder’ (chocolate ganache), then shaping them into desired forms, before covering them with a layer of chocolate compound and let them set until firm.

The decoration phase is the most exciting part, but also the most tedious – she dips the cake pops into candy coating for gorgeous colours and draws beautiful elements onto them to fit any particular theme. No doubt, the whole process is lengthy, yet it is therapeutic in a way.

Nur holds classes regularly for those who want to learn all her tricks by charging MYR280 per student. Alternatively, CrazePop’s sweet concoction can be ordered between MYR8 to MYR20 per piece, depending on the complexity of the design.

FOR ALWAYS-HUNGRY FOODIES RasaDesa KL, Bukit Damansara Celebrated for its authentic Malay culinary offerings, this restaurant has been collecting fans all over Klang Valley, including popular celebrities and political leaders in the nation.

Yet, the prices remain affordable. The menu is not extensive, but still features many crowd favourites. Classic staples such as itik salai masak lemak cili api (smoked duck in coconut gravy), asam pedas ikan pari (stingray in asam curry) and Temerloh’s patin masak tempoyak (freshwater silver catfish with fermented durian gravy) will never fail to warm your tummy, but be sure to leave some space for the sweet treats like sago gula Melaka or tapai ice cream.

The service is also fast and welcoming.

RasaDesa KL opens every day except Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., but closes between 3:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

T: +6 012 260 6433 Big Baba Nyonya Cuisine, Taman Desa This nostalgic restaurant promises rich Peranakan flavours with simple yet scrumptious dishes. The menu is extensively curated for a full-fledge meal, cooked according to family recipes that have been perfected over the years. Feast on delicious chicken pongteh (fermented bean paste chicken

stew) and Itik Tim (savoury duck broth) if you have weak tolerance for spiciness; but for punchier flavours, indulge in the restaurant’s udang masak lemak nenas (prawns with coconut and pineapple gravy) that celebrate the unique use of spices. To conclude, wash it down with a refreshing bowl of cendol. The restaurant opens only on weekdays, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., but closes between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

T: +6 03 7987 7755 Kenny Hills Bakers, Ampang (Instagram: @kennyhillsbakers) This famous cafe and bakery has long cemented its position as the go-to place for careful selections of artisanal bread, decadent pastries and gourmet dishes.

They take pride in using only the best and freshest ingredients for their crafts such as the stone-milled organic flour for that fluffy, flavourful bread. Though their brick-oven pizzas are proven to be crowd favourites, be sure to arouse your palate by opting for this bakery’s non-alcohol tiramisu or the ondehondeh cake, both so delicate and moist, leaving you weeping in happiness after each bite. The cafe is divided into multiple dining areas, so it doesn’t feel too crowded even during peak hours.

Kenny Hills Bakers in Ampang opens every day from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.

T: +6 03 4265 2020

Starbucks Drive-Thru Ampang With an inviting in-store ambience and easy access to expertly brewed coffees, there’s no wonder why Starbucks becomes a successful household name.

And the outlet in Ampang offers just that. Busy city dwellers can get their coffee fix easily via drive-thru, while its store is an open and contemporary space that proves popular among locals for casual meetings or studying. The coffee served here are handcrafted by well-trained baristas or Coffee Masters, paired harmoniously with the snacks offered on the menu. The service here is also spot on.

This list was made in conjunction with the familiarisation trip by Gaya Travel Magazine and Kuala Lumpur Tourism Bureau.

Previous Page, Top from Left : Gorgeous items from Bingka KL that make endearing fashion statement; CrazePop’s cute cakesicles are perfect for brightening up the dessert counter on any occasion; Starbucks Medium Guatemala Antigua Whole Bean coffee is best when enjoyed with dark chocolate.

This Page, Bottom from Left: Buttery and fluffy croissants at Kenny Hills Bakers; Big Baba’s simple yet scrumptious dishes are rich with Peranakan flavours; fried patin (freshwater silver catfish) goes well with hot steaming rice and sambal at RasaDesa KL.

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Destinations

Maxing Out the New Golden Route with Hokuriku Arch Pass 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

They say that Tokyo represents Japan’s epitome of an ultimately-advanced urbanisation and Osaka is Japan’s food capital – both metropolises shape how we view Japan. So why not experience both while you are already on Japan’s Honshu island? Or even better, how about experiencing more of Japan by discovering the lessexplored destinations between the two destinations, which would leave you more enriched and fulfilled?

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There a few options on how to get from Tokyo to Osaka by land. The more popular one that connects Tokyo and Osaka is called the Golden Route, where travellers can expect to see the conventional side of Japan along the way. But there is another alternative that can bring travellers to a different, more rural, less-crowded side of Japan, which is aptly named the New Golden Route, taking travellers along the coast overlooking the Sea of Japan. The route is best discovered using the Hokuriku Arch Pass that gives travellers access to commute from one place to another conveniently by train.

Follow me as I discover some of the marvellous spots along the New Golden Route…

Important points regarding Hokuriku Arch Pass: » A seven-day pass costs ¥24,440 (around MYR945) if purchased outside Japan or ¥25,460 (around MY980) if purchased within Japan.

» It can only be used consecutively. » It can only be used by non-Japanese travellers under ‘temporary visitor’ entry status. » The pass offers unlimited travel on reserved and non-reserved seats in ordinary cars on the Hokuriku Shinkansen

(between Tokyo and Kanazawa), Limited Express and local trains operated by JR-EAST and JR-WEST, Tokyo Monorail, and on Noto Railway between Nanao and Wakuraonsen within the area stated in the passholder. » Seat reservations can be made in advance without charges at JR ticket office or Travel Service Centre in a JR-EAST or JR-WEST station. For non-reserved seat, travellers can simply show the pass. However, not all trains have nonreserved seats, therefore you may need to find yourself a vacant seat on the train. » Please browse http://hokuriku-arch-pass.com/en to understand more about this pass.

TOKYO TOKYO SKYTREE® (http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/) This 634-metre tall broadcasting tower is a must-visit in Tokyo mainly because it is the tallest tower in Japan and the tallest extant tower in the world! It also comes with two observation decks, one at the 350th metre that has café, and another one at the 450th metre that is uniquely designed with spiralling corridor. This tower is part of TOKYO SKYTREE TOWNSM, where travellers can conveniently visit two other attractions located at its base: TOKYO Solamachi, a shopping and entertainment complex; and Sumida Aquarium, which has the largest open indoor tank in Japan.

Sensoji Temple (http://www.sensojitemple.com/) Paying homage to the Goddess of Mercy, Kannon, Sensoji Temple is the oldest temple in Tokyo. The temple was severely damaged during World War II but was rebuilt out of donations from Japanese people, making it a symbol of rebirth and peace. The temple is also iconic due to its Kaminarimon Gate that has become the emblem of Asakusa.

Ameyoko (http://www.ameyoko.net/) This market street, which lies along Ueno to Okachimachi Station, was once used as a black market area where American products were largely sold. Today, the marketplace comes alive selling products ranging from clothes, cosmetics, dried and fresh foods at affordable prices. I also came across a few halal fast food eateries mainly serving variety of kebabs here.

Hotel Tavinos Hamamatsucho (https://hoteltavinos.com/en/hamamatsucho/) Strategically located in Hamamatsucho, this trendy hotel with manga-inspired design is just 20 minutes by car from Haneda International Airport (HND). It is also close to public transport hub, providing easy access to major attractions across Tokyo. But to me, the most attractive feature of this cleverly-designed 188-room hotel is its artificially intelligent (AI) concierge by the name of ‘Tavinoshiori’, which is an oversized touchscreen panel showing the map, time, temperature, places of interest, restaurants and more. This up-to-the-minute concierge is also available in different languages, including English. Plus, the hotel is full of manga designs and travellers must be attracted as soon as they enter the lobby.

NAGANO PREFECTURE Kumoba Pond This is a free-entry attraction that enchants travellers with a picturesque lake once used to supply water for Japanese

feudal lords and nobles during Edo period. The lake is also known as ‘Swan Lake’ because swans stop at this lake during migration. The mirror-like lake remains a treat for the eyes throughout all seasons – expect verdant hues in summer, auburn and gold foliage in autumn and snow in winter.

Shiraito Falls The waterfall located in a dense forest in Karuizawa is exceptional due to its three-metre high and 70-metre wide waterfall that appears like white threads from afar, hence earning it the moniker ‘White-Threads Waterfall’.

Interestingly, the water that creates the waterfall is not collected from precipitation, any river or stream but rather from the groundwater that flows from the volcanic stratum beneath the slopes of Mount Asama located above the waterfall.

Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church This church pays tribute to the founding father of Karuizawa, Alexander Croft Shaw who was also a Canadian missionary.

Back in the old days, he was said to have popularised Karuizawa to the Westerners who then built cottages around the area. The church was built in 1895, the first in Karuizawa. Just behind the church, travellers can visit Shaw’s reconstructed timber-framed summer house.

Old Karuizawa Ginza Street This street actually connects Tokyo and Kyoto, probably explains why it was originally known as a post town.

Leisure walk around Ginza Street is highly-recommended since travellers can find various old-style, pastel-coloured shophouses selling items like clothes, souvenirs and desserts.

Just around the area, Karuizawa Tennis Court is also worth visiting, which looks like any other typical tennis court but here lies an adorable history where the former emperor of Japan, Emperor Akihito, met Empress Michiko for the first time back in August 1957! No wonder this area feels pleasantly romantic!

Zenkoji Temple (https://www.zenkoji.jp/ENGLISH/about/) Considered as one of Japan’s national treasures and holiest pilgrimage sites, this temple holds a 1,400-year-old history.

It is well-known for keeping the original first Buddha statue ever to be brought to Japan, though no one has ever seen it. However, travellers can witness the replica of the statue during a ceremony held every six years called Gokaichō that lasts for a few weeks.

Recommended: Get here early in the morning to witness the rosary-blessing ceremony (known as o-juzu choudai), followed by a morning prayer service (oasaji), believed to have been practiced for centuries.

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Clockwise from top left: One of the serene sights at Kenrokuen Garden; Omi-cho Market, the largest fresh food marketplace in Kanazawa; One of the heart-pounding scenes at Dekonaru-za; Rail Mountain Bike Gattan Go!! offers unique experience.

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Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza (http://www.karuizawa-psp.jp/) Though shopping might not be your thing, this 26-hectare complex will probably come to your liking since it exudes a congenial atmosphere containing over 200 fashion stores and restaurants. It has a vast garden at its centre where travellers can have a picnic with family and play with pets.

Tokyu Rei Hotel (https://www.tokyuhotelsjapan.com/global/nagano-r/) This hotel is close to several attractions, and the adjacent train station makes this elegant hotel all the more convenient.

The room is spacious and each room is fully equipped with air-conditioner, complimentary wi-fi, bidet, refrigerator, television and more. In support of the environment, travellers can participate in the hotel’s ‘Green Coin Programme’ by not using amenities like toothbrushes and razors provided inside the room. Each unused amenity represents one ‘green coin’, which guests should return to the reception upon checking out. The number of green coins collected by the hotel will determine the amount of donation the hotel will give to forestation activities.

NIIGATA PREFECTURE

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Itoigawa GeoStation Geopal (http://www.geo-itoigawa.com/eng/enjoying/geopal.html) This place, located at Itoigawa Station, gives a comprehensive information for travellers to learn more about Itoigawa, the first Global Geopark recognised by UNESCO in Japan.

Facilities here include tourist information centre, railroad model, educational diorama and the fascinating re-purposed Kiha 52 Train waiting room.

Tanimura Art Museum (http://www.gyokusuien.jp) Designed by a well-known architect, Togo Murano, this museum pays homage to one of Japan’s greatest sculptors, Seiko Sawada. It houses private collections of Buddhist statues, each given their own cavern-like room with hidden windows and skylights, allowing them to be bathed in natural light, including artificial lighting, so that the statues look different depending on seasons, weather and time of the day.

The museum is located right next to Gyokusuien Garden that is beautifully decorated with landscaped hills, two waterfalls and an iconic eight-metre tall rock called Daikannonzo.

Lotte Arai Resort (http://www.lottehotel.com/arai-resort/en.html) Surrounded by scenic mountain range, Lotte Arai Resort boasts 257 rooms. This resort is especially popular during winter since it offers 14 ski courses. However, it does provide other exciting activities all year round such as tubing and bouldering – I highly recommend travellers to try out the

resort’s 1,501-metre-long zipline, which is one of the longest in Asia! During the three minutes’ flight along the zipline, travellers are feted to the breathtaking, aerial view of Mount Ogenashi.

Sunflower & Kochia Kingdom On this sprawling 100,000 metres squared land, travellers can expect to see around a million of blooming sunflowers during summer and 150,000 kochia plants during late September to early October. Produced by renowned landscape artist, Kazuyuki Ishihara, this large-scale garden overlooks Mount Myoko, making it appears even more stunning.

APA Resort Joetsu-Myoko (https://www.apahotel.com/en/) This hotel has 139 well-equipped rooms in its main building and another 87 in the hotel’s annex with all facing the majestic Mount Myoko.Among the facilities it offers include 24-hour front desk, shops and playground. It also has indoor and outdoor hot spring baths. To make travellers journey easier, it can provide a free shuttle service to and from JR Sekiyama Station on the Echigo-Tokimeki Line.

Recommended: Travellers should enjoy the charming digital illumination art show involving 1.53 million LED lights (a world record) called Apallusion, staged just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel. In 2020, the show is slated from 1 September until 17 November.

Previous page picture: Experiencing one of the longest ziplines in the world at Lotte Arai Resort.

This page: Nomura Clan Samurai House with a view of a breathtaking garden.

a few houses left for later generations to appreciate its history.

These houses have been restored and one of the stellar examples is the Nomura Clan Samurai House belonging to the Nomura family, one of the most influential samurai families back in the old days. The house is remarkably praised for its postcard-pretty garden, classic tea room and jyōdanno-ma chamber, the space to host feudal lords.

ISHIKAWA PREFECTURE Kanazawa Station (https://www.kanazawastation.com/) Though it serves as a train station, this modern, stylish building also functions as a one-stop centre where travellers can find tourist information centre, money changers, shops, restaurants and even a hotel within it. This station has a few attractions too such the emblematic Tsuzumi-mon Gate and brilliantly-designed Motenashi Dome on its east and a symbolic Yuuyou Monument on its west, which are all attractions in their own right.

Higashi Chaya District Originally founded as an entertainment district during the Edo period where geishas sang and danced for the nobles, Higashi Chaya today remains as one of three well-preserved geisha districts in Kanazawa. Most parts of the area have been converted into cafés, restaurants and souvenir shops, yet travellers can still get a glimpse of how it looks like during its heyday through its time-honoured wooden architecture.

Among the activities that travellers can take part here is applying the super-thin gold leaf – a product that Kanazawa is famous for – onto the souvenir of their choice.

Nomura Clan Samurai House (http://nomurake.com) During Edo period, the district of Nagamachi was where the samurai resided. Today, though many of the houses had been demolished following the end of the feudal system, there are

Kenrokuen Garden Park (http://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kenrokuen/e/index. html) Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, Japan is among the three Japan’s most beautiful landscaped gardens. ‘Kenrokuen’ means “Garden of the Six Sublimities”, following the Chinese principles of a perfect garden, featuring myriads of trees such as plum, cherry, pine and more with landscape that changes according to season. Used to be part of Kanazawa Castle, this garden has been opened to the public since 1871.

Kanazawa Castle Park (http://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kanazawajou/e/) Kanazawa Castle used to be the residence of the Maeda Lord of Kaga Domain that lasted for 14 generations from 1583 until 1869. It also served as an army base during World War II and a campus of Kanazawa University until 1995. Today, the castle has been transformed into a tourist attraction where travellers can learn about its fascinating history and splendid architecture.

Omi-cho Market (https://ohmicho-ichiba.com/) It is the largest fresh food marketplace in Kanazawa. Its significance proved pivotal since 1804. It has over 170 shops, whereby some of them serve food ready to be eaten. The fishmongers here source their products mainly from the Sea of Japan on daily basis.

GIFU PREFECTURE Kumihimo Braiding at Obora Besides selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, travellers are recommended to try their hands at kumihimo, an ancient Japanese braid-making craft that can be turned into a keychain or bracelet. Based on my experience, the process of interweaving the strands is challenging and it requires great care and strong focus. Nevertheless, I got to finish it successfully thanks to the helpful and highly-skilled owner.

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Rail Mountain Bike Gattan Go!! (http://rail-mtb.com/en/) Once belonged to Kamioka Railway, this place offers an exhilarating experience that travellers should not miss. There are two courses available: town course and canyon course. I experienced the former one that brought me traversing the city area on a two-connected hybrid-bikes along the former railway tracks for about an hour. Along the 5.8-kilometre trip, we passed through the elevated bridge, pitch-black tunnels and residential areas that frame the serene view of Kamioka town and Takahara Valley! The two courses are only available at certain times, so travellers are advised to first check directly with the operator before going.

Setogawa Canal and White-Walled Storehouse Street This part of Hida-Furukawa is much-celebrated because its pristine 400-metre-long canal is filled with thousands of flaming-hued koi fishes swimming alongside quaintlypreserved white-walled storehouses. These fishes are seriously huge because they are well-fed by both locals and tourists.

Travellers can buy a packet of bread crumbs for ¥100 (around MYR4) to feed them. However, the fishes can be seen from early April until November.

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Recommended: If you are familiar with Your Name, one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time, you should try finding the real-life locations depicted in the film when you explore the area.

Ajino Yohei (https://funasaka-shuzo01.jimdo.com/) Located amidst the old streets in Takayama, this restaurant is known for its juicy Hida beef. Among the favourite dishes here are Hida Beef Gozen. For the convenience of Muslim travellers, it also provides halal menu but advanced reservation is required.

Dekonaru-za (https://dekonaru-za.com/en/) This performance revolves around a legend about a deity called Ryoumen Sukuna. Travellers can anticipate a mix of traditional performances including music and dance, besides interactive sessions such as the creative usage of sensu, a Japanese folding fan. At the price of ¥3,000 per ticket, the entertaining show is definitely a must-watch.

Takayama Ouan (https://www.hotespa.net/hotels/takayama/index.html) Since most areas within this Japanese homelike hotel are all covered in tatami mat, including the lobby, travellers need to remain barefoot during their stay, including when being inside one of its 167 Japanese-styled rooms. There are public and private open air hot spring baths available at the rooftop.

Shirakawa-Go The crowd-pleasing Gassho-style villages in the valley are enlisted as part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1995. These villages carry a history that spans 400 years. With rustic houses and vast paddy fields surrounded by mountains, these humble villages are definitely more charming when viewed from the higher grounds. One of the places to observe the villages is from Tenshukaku Observatory.

Good to know » Due to the growing number of Muslim travellers in Hida Takayama area, some Muslim-friendly facilities like hotels, places of worship and halal restaurants can be found here. For more information about Muslim-friendly facilities in Hida Takayama, visit https://www.facebook.com/mfpht/. » Hachiman Matsuri or Takayama Autumn Festival is one of the three most beautiful festivals in Japan that has been included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List since 2016. During the festival, travellers can witness magnificently-decorated yatai or festival floats that has been preserved for approximately 300 years. This celebration is held in early October every year.

OSAKA PREFECTURE Hotel Binario Umeda (https://hotelsunrouteumeda-osaka.h-rez.com/index.htm) This hotel in Umeda is worth-staying because it offers an easy reach to several attractions around Osaka. The room is cosy and well-equipped with television, in-room safe, refrigerator and Wi-Fi. 24-hour front desk, restaurant and dry-cleaning service are some of the facilities offered for guests’ comfort.

Nishiki Warai (http://www.nishikiwarai.com/) This restaurant is serves one of Japan’s most popular dishes, okonomiyaki, which is a savoury pancake made into various styles. Among the popular kinds of okonomiyaki that travellers should try are negiyaki, yakisoba, kyotenyaki and classic okonomiyaki.

Gaya Travel Magazine says thank you to Grand Circle Project team for making the writer’s trip along the New Golden Route smooth-sailing.

Destinations

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Deliciously Glocal D u b a i Te x t b y J U H A N K A M A R U D D I N Images by DUBAI TOURISM & JUHAN KAMARUDDIN

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Clockwise from Top Left: A windtower that can be seen at Al Fahidi, which becomes the historical district’s signature; Riding on the abra along Dubai Creek; View of the iconic Dubai skyline from the creek at dusk.

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As travellers embrace Dubai, they would soon realise that the city is more than just an oeuvre of man-made wonders. Underneath the opulence and plugged-in exterior, Dubai is also enterprising, industrious, driven, agile and nimble in finding ways to remain relevant, innovative, constantly changing and reinventing, and eager to introduce something new. No wonder Dubai is rated as one of the easiest places to do business and functions as a major trading hub in the Arabian Gulf.

Dubai’s downtown glitters effortlessly, giving the impression that the city has been built from scratch.

But the truth is Dubai started from humble beginnings, a fishing village situated along a creek, surrounded by enigmatic desert wilderness, ideal for those who love adventure and the vast borderless outdoors. As such, embarking on a Desert Safari provided by destination management companies like Travco Travel Company (https://www.travcotravel.com/) is a must whenever travellers come to Dubai to bash the picturesque sand dunes on a four-wheel drive and spend time in the desert, which is where Emiratis still feel connected to and belonged, shaping their psyche and culture.

Clockwise from Left: Dubai Frame, where travellers can enjoy unobstructed views of the old and new Dubai; An experienced SMCCU volunteer (second from right) explaining to visitors about Emirati traditional attires; Stopping for a while in the middle of the desert to admire the sunset during Desert Safari.

Among the travelling fraternity, Dubai almost needs no introduction, especially when it is the home base of Emirates (https://www.emirates.com/my/english/), an international airline with extensive global network.

Globetrotting travellers are bound to transit in Dubai at least once in their lives when flying with the carrier.

Sitting at the halfway point between Asia, Europe and Africa, Dubai is the fourth most visited city globally, rooted in tradesman culture and natives who are hospitable in nature. The Dubai Government promotes inclusiveness, while its society upholds tolerance towards people from various backgrounds. As a matter of fact, there are 200 different nationalities in Dubai who call the city home, making it diverse and multi-faceted. Besides, the city is run efficiently and now regarded as one of the safest cities on earth.

Speaking of Emirati culture, those who have questions about it should head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (https://www.cultures.ae/) or SMCCU, where they can listen to educational talks about local culture and dine in traditional Emirati fashion. It is here where travellers learn that in spite of the breakneck speed of economic development undertaken by the Dabawis (which means ‘people from Dubai’ in Arabic), it is inspiring to know that modernisation hardly changes their true essence.

Travellers should take the time venturing out to the city’s various neighbourhoods, where they can savour local and international cuisines. Scratching more than Dubai’s surface, foodies and culture enthusiasts should give Frying Pan Adventures tours a go (https://www. fryingpanadventures.com/), which bring them to the spots where the grassroots convene for their meals. Another option is to dine at Al Fanar Restaurant (https://www. alfanarrestaurant.com/), which serves authentic Emirati cuisine amidst cosy setting, transporting diners back in time. For more Arabian choices, there are many restaurants serving mandi (‘dewy’ and moist-textured) dishes. As travellers fork out their money, they would be delighted to find out that dining, and even staying, in Dubai is actually not prohibitively expensive as many people thought, since value-for-money joints do exist, for example Nur Malaysia (https://www.facebook.com/ nurmalaysiadubai/), Dapoer Kita (https://www.dapoerkita. com/), and Fuchsia (https://www.fuchsiame.com/).

The number of one- to three-star hotel and serviced residences available in the city are increasing too.

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Clockwise from Top Left: The stage inside Dubai Opera being tested and readied for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s renowned musical Phantom of the Opera to be performed later in the day; Visitors posing and taking photos at The Waterfall within Dubai Mall.

Suggested itinerary When putting together an itinerary to explore Dubai, be sure to cover the superlative aspects of Dubai in one day such as climbing up the tallest free-standing building in the world, Burj Khalifa (https://www.burjkhalifa.ae/); spending time and money at the largest shopping centre in the world Dubai Mall (https://thedubaimall.com/), which claim to fame is its 1,200 stores, two anchor stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, spanning over 1 million metres squared, including the Fashion Avenue wing, deemed as the city’s most luxurious shopping experience with deluxe facilities; touring around the world-class dhow-shaped performing arts centre called Dubai Opera (https://www.dubaiopera.com/ dubai-opera-tour/), a stone’s throw away from Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall; then in the evening walking around the sprawling Global Village (https://www.globalvillage.ae/ en/), a family-friendly open-air theme park retailing goods and wares from various parts of the world through its 3,500 shopping outlets, 20 multi-cultural restaurants and 140 kiosks.

Continue the next day by ascending the Dubai Frame (https://www.dubaiframe.ae/en), then in late afternoon head out for Desert Safari, take your dinner at a camp in the desert, and immerse yourself in the Bedouin lifestyle way into the night.

Besides enjoying the sweeping views of Dubai from the state-of-the-art bridge, including the chance to walk over the vertigo-inducing triple-glazed, laminated glass panel flooring that transparently show the ground 150 metres below, Dubai Frame is an excellent place for travellers to appreciate the old and new Dubai, as well as understand the city’s mindboggling transformation from a sleepy village to a shining cosmopolis we know today. From the outside, Dubai Frame impressively gleams in the sun because it is covered with 15,000 metres of goldcoloured cladding. Since Dubai Frame is situated in right between old and new Dubai, the landmark has now become one of the best spots for travellers to directly feast upon Dubai’s iconic skyline that dominates the southern (read: new) part, crowned by Burj Khalifah. When travellers face north, they are greeted by the view of the older, lower-rise Bur Dubai district, which spreads out towards the Dubai Creek.

The following day should be filled with discovering Dubai’s art and design hubs, notably Jameel Arts Centre (https:// jameelartscentre.org/), Dubai Design District (https://www. dubaidesigndistrict.com/), and Alserkal Avenue (https:// alserkalavenue.ae/)

Alserkal Avenue – a contemporary art and cultural district located in Dubai’s Al Quoz area –helps to bring urban cool to Dubai by positioning itself as one of the city’s cultural and lifestyle hubs. Founded in 2008, this 500,000-foot squared industrial plot currently contains over 90 retail outlets, cinema, food and beverage outlets, gym, and 13 galleries.

Emphasising on inclusivity, Al Serkal Avenue management does not refer to the enterprises occupying the space as tenants but more as ‘community members’. Among them, travellers might be drawn to Kave (https://thestoryofthings.com/), which occupies Warehouse No. 2 and sells upcycled items and organic food and beverage; Mirzam Chocolate Makers (https://mirzam.com/) for its delectable bespoke chocolate-based homemade confections in Warehouse 70; and Cinema Akil (https://www. cinemaakil.com/) for showing arthouse movies in Warehouse 68, adding colour and sophistication to the place.

Concrete (https://concrete.ae/) – a multi-disciplinary and multi-functional venue designed by OMA with starchitect Rem Koolhaas at the helm – opened here beginning 2017. Beginning 6 November 2019, an exhibition in collaboration with the internationally renowned London-based Whitechapel Gallery at Concrete.

ferrying commuters from one jetty to the next around the Dubai Creek). You can buy souvenirs like spices, textiles or gold at these souqs, whereby all merchandise sold is regulated by the Dubai Government, and the gold sold at the Gold Souq is guaranteed to be 100% authentic. End your day with a dinner at any of the establishments along the waterfront promenade stretching from the Al Seef Heritage Souq (https://www.alseef.ae/en/Souq) all the way to Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef (hilton.com/en/hotels/dxbalhx-hamptondubai-al-seef ), a low-rise, design-savvy, funky, stylishly quirky and whimsical yet homely and practical hotel, amalgamated with a rooftop pool.

Honestly, I simply love my quiet evening stroll from Dubai Museum back to Zabeel House Mini in Al Seef district, passing by softly lit heritage structures, turning the whole area dreamy. I do hope to return and spend more time in Dubai by staying around Al Seef and explore more of Deira, including the surrounding neighbourhoods close to the creek, which I presume to be part of the city’s soul.

Little did I expect that Dubai, with its shining skyscrapers, global ambitions and eyes fixed on the future, is made up of neighbourhoods filled with communal verve and heady diversity, resulting in a Dubai that is admirably global yet at the same time hearteningly local…

Gaya Travel Magazine team expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (https://www.visitdubai.com/en) for ensuring the writer’s trip to Dubai smooth sailing.

The busiest months for Alserkal Avenue are March and November, when the space bursts with mostly arts-related events. Public should keep an eye out for the vibrant Quoz Arts Fest, held at the end of every January, showcasing both arts- and non-arts-related events, attracting large crowds with diverse interests.

Usage of single-use plastic straws and cutleries are avoided and glass bottles replace plastic ones during these events.

On your last day, soak in Al Fahidi neighbourhood’s historical atmosphere by the Dubai Creek, which is distinctively defined by countless iconic windtowers or windcatchers called malqaf in Arabic that functioned as ventilators or air-conditioners. Take a peek inside the Coffee Museum (https://www.coffeemuseum.ae/) and Dubai Museum (https://dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/Live-Our-Heritage/ Pages/Dubai-Museum-and-Al-Fahidi-Fort.aspx), then have a deliciously hearty lunch served in majlis style seating at SMCCU while listening to the volunteers explaining about Emirati culture and interacting with them. Afterwards, proceed to the bustling souqs (markets) in Bur Dubai and Deira, including taking a ride on the abra (traditional boats

Inside Kave at Alserkal Avenue, which retails items made from upcycled materials.

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One of the participants taking in the serene, countryside view of Tegudon Tourism Village

Destinations

Sabah, Here I Come!

Text by MUHAMMAD HASIF MOHD JELANI Images by MUHAMMAD HASIF MOHD JELANI & ZARNIZAR

Ask any Malaysian about his or her favourite local destination, Sabah is bound to be among the top three. Places like Kota Kinabalu, Kundasang, and Mabul are some of the more popular spots that travellers love. But there are actually more places in Sabah that are still under the radar that travellers simply must discover!

To unearth Sabah’s hidden gems, Sabah Tourism Board, in collaboration with Gaya Travel Magazine and Tourism Malaysia, flew selected social media influencers and bloggers to Sabah to participate in a familiarisation programme named #KUDATangSabah, a Malay phrase meaning ‘Sabah, here I Come’, which puns on the word Kudat, one of the places where the programme participants were brought to, besides Kota Kinabalu and Kota Belud.

Apparently, the stretch from Kota Kinabalu all the way to Simpang Mengayau (popularly known as The Tip of Borneo) in Kudat, holds many authentic facets of Sabah that are not yet popular among travellers. Read on to find out how you could have an enriching experience as you head to Kudat from Kota Kinabalu!

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KOTA KINABALU Toojou Social Hostel (https://www.toojou.com/) Located in Bandaran Berjaya, this practical hotel offers two types of accommodations: studio and capsule beds. We experienced the latter, which are cosy, brilliantly-designed and convenient, especially for backpackers.

The capsule beds come with complimentary Wi-Fi connectivity, reading light, clothes-hanging unit, multipower sockets with USB ports, shoe locker and lock-up storage.

Interestingly, the hostel also has a coworking space on the first floor called ‘Opis’ with ample space, comfortable seats and desks, relaxing common area, printer and complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee and snacks. Houseguests can use the ‘Opis’ for free.

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D’Place Kinabalu Restaurant (https://www.facebook.com/ dplacekinabalu/) Located on the second floor of Plaza Shell, this restaurant serves authentic Sabahan cuisines, mainly Kadazan Dusun. The highlight on the menu is the simple yet juicy, rich-in-protein delicacy known as butod or sago worms, which is usually eaten raw but travellers can try it in the forms of butod pizza and butod sushi as well. If one cannot handle it, rest assured that the restaurant serves other dishes like linopot rice, soko (bamboo shoots) soup, fried salted sulit (fusilier) fish, hinava (lime-marinated mackerel fillet) and tuhau (minced ginger).

KOTA BELUD Tegudon Tourism Village (https://www.facebook.com/ tegudontourismvillage/)

Thanks to social media, this village has now emerged as a hit destination among travellers, especially those who love nature photography, camping and stargazing. It has a scenic landscape comprising paddy fields, mountain ranges and river. To cater to travellers’ needs, the villagers have come up with various facilities such as camping site, resting huts and tents for rent.

While camping is obviously popular here, other activities travellers should do is stargazing (meteor shower and fireball are some of the wonderful things travellers might get to witness), bamboo rafting, picnicking and trekking to Minorit Hill, Ponohuan Waterfall and Mount Tambuyukon.

Best time to visit is between February and March, including November and December when the paddy fields are covered in green.

Cabana Retreat (https://www.cabanaretreat.com/) This lovely resort is mostly fully booked on weekends. Travellers come here for the glamping experience. Each tent comes with cosy beds, toiletries, air conditioner and barbecue pit.

The resort is located near Rampayan Beach where fun activities like banana boat, ATV, paddle boat, volleyball and cycling can be done at additional cost. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi connectivity, swimming pool and open cinema. The resort offer many Instagram-worthy spots, making it perfect for relaxing and a snazzy staycation.

KUDAT Sumangkap Gong-Making Village Unlike other villages in Malaysia, this village is unique because most of its residents produce and sell gongs (flat,

disk-like musical instrument played by hitting its bulgy centre with a mallet). In Rungus culture, gong plays a significant role during many occasions, especially weddings. Different sounds and rhythms signal different events.

The gong is usually made of brass and zinc. Travellers should not miss visiting this village to learn from the friendly gong-smiths how the gongs are made and buy the exclusive gong merchandises. Oh, taking selfies with the record-breaking gargantuan gong weighing 980 kilograms is also a must!

Bavanggazo Rungus Longhouse Did you know that one longhouse can accommodate not just one family but an entire village? This is just one of the interesting facts that we learned during our visit to Bavanggazo in Matunggong, about 100 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu. The longhouse, which has now been converted into a homestay, provides the unforgettable experience living like how the Rungus tribe did in the olden days like eating traditional dishes, participating in social ceremonies, learning craft-making and trekking around the village.

Misompuru Homestay (http://misompuruhomestay.yolasite. com/) Led by Datuk Jeffry Yahya, fondly known as ‘Cobra’, this homestay offers travellers authentic local experience that can be customised to travellers’ interest. We stopped here to taste delectable Rungus traditional cuisine that includes bamboo shoot cooked with sweet leaf, chili mud crab, stirfried sweet leaf with prawns, and linopot corn rice with longkobungan leaf. For more information about this homestay, contact Datuk Jeffry at cobramisompuru@hotmail.com.

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Clockwise from Top Left: Mr Jamri, one of the gong-smiths at Sumangkap Gong-Making Village, demonstrating how the gong is made; The glamping tents at Cabana Retreat; The pool view at Kudat Golf and Marina Resort; The long hallway inside Bavanggazo Rungus Longhouse that is used for social and communal purposes; The writer enjoying the breathtaking view of Simpang Mengayau; A hearty lunch at Misompuru Homestay.

Kalampunian Beach This beach lies next to Simpang Mengayau. It has few resorts and chalets offering not only relaxing accommodations but invigorating water activities, including surfing. We spent a truly enjoyable hour learning how to surf here from the professional and highly experienced instructors of Blue Fin Surf and Dive (contact Mr Ivan Nicholas at +6 012 827 1662). The best time to surf here is from November to February and July to August. This activity costs MYR80 per person for an hour for beginners, which include surfing instruction and surfboard rental.

Simpang Mengayau Simpang Mengayau is a headland renowned as the northernmost-tip of Borneo, the spot for travellers to admire the dramatic panorama where the South China Sea converges with the Sulu Sea. Do come here during sunset for a memorable view of the open ocean, besides unique rock formations at the foreground shaped by the wind and the waves. Entrance to this site is free.

Caution: It is not advisable for travellers to go down the slope due to the slippery surface and the possibility of strong waves and current.

Kudat Golf & Marina Resort (http://www.kudatgolfmarinaresort. com/) Established in 2002, the rooms at this beautiful resort overlook either the garden, golf course or ocean. The resort’s design is inspired from Rungus architecture with a contemporary twist.

It has a large swimming pool, children wading pool, fitness centre, sauna room, futsal court, and meeting rooms, making it convenient for leisure and business travellers. Its in-house restaurant called SIX°55 Casa de Norde is designed with a trendy bistro concept where guests can dine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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Clockwise from Top Left: Some of the giant fishes being reared at Tambakan Fish Farm; Admiring the sunset at one of the stops during Tembara River Cruise; Yoga session at 9 Huts on a Hill.

Tambakan Fish Farm Owned by Wong Sin Hin, this fish farm in Tambakan is unique because it is located in the middle of the sea. It breeds fishes like keratang, sunuk, siakap, putih and mameng besides other sea creatures like abalone and sea cucumber. The tour package to this farm starts at MYR180 per person, inclusive of return boat transfer from Marina Jetty, snorkelling activity and lip-smacking seafood lunch.

9 Huts on a Hill (http://www.9huts.com/) As its name denotes, this eco-friendly resort facing Bak Bak Beach in Kudat has only nine rooms in a form of huts.

Located on the crest of a hill, each hut is made from locallysourced materials and has an unobstructed view of the sea.

The huts are fully furnished with facilities like water heater, air conditioner and mosquito nets. The signature activity here is yoga, which we did during sunset with the other guests, headed by a volunteer yoga instructor Tereza Frydmanova from Czech Republic. We found the whole experience rejuvenating and warrants a repeat.

Borneo Honeybee Centre As part of the effort of strengthening the beekeeping

programme initiated back in 1989, this centre plays a pivotal role in advancing the agro-tourism industry for the benefit of the locals. Located in Sikuati, travellers can expect to see the bee hives upclose (don’t worry, safety gears and attires are provided), learn about the bees’ life cycle, understand the process of honey production and buy high-quality honey products, including raw honey. The main produce is the honey from the stingless bee (locally known as kelulut), known for its health benefits.

While you are in the area, why not pay a visit to Tuaran and experience Tembara River Cruise (https://www.tembararivercruise.com/)?

Though the main highlight is the cosy cruise ride on a traditional catamaran along Sulaman Bay, this place offers other exciting activities too such as cycling around the villages and the beach, kayaking, crab-catching, sunset-viewing and watching the bioluminescent show of fireflies. Well, we experienced them all and we could not be more satisfied! The price depends on the type of package chosen, but we think the experience travellers will gain at the end of the day is definitely priceless.

Destinations

Adventuring Nor th Sumatra

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Due to its close proximity to Kuala Lumpur (around an hour by flight), the destinations within the North Sumatra province, particularly Medan and Lake Toba (locally known as Danau Toba) are fast becoming Malaysians’ favourite getaways.

Given the province’s amazing attractions such as unique Batak culture, historically mesmerising Lake Toba and wondrous natural surroundings, it is almost incomplete if travellers do not experience both destinations in one go.

Medan is the capital of the North Sumatra province and the largest city on Sumatra Island.

To many travellers, Medan is known for being one of the best culinary hotspots in Indonesia, besides being the entry and exit point to Lake Toba.

Lake Toba, on the other hand, is the largest natural lake in Southeast Asia and one of the world’s deepest. Interestingly, in the centre of the lake lies the 630-kilometre squared Samosir Island, which is almost as large as Singapore.

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

It was formed due to a climate-changing supervolcanic eruption in 75,000 years ago!

You can refer to our article ‘Lost Under the Clouds of North Sumatra’ in Gaya Travel Magazine Issue 12.5 or read it online (https:// www.gayatravel.com.my/lost-under-the-clouds-ofnorth-sumatra/) should you want to find out other must-visit places in North Sumatra.

But do continue reading this article since it talks about our experience visiting selected attractions between Danau Toba and Medan that are bound to make your journey special and memorable, especially if you are adventurous and want to explore off-the-beaten-path.

Good to know Apart from Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), travellers can also fly to Sisingamangaraja XII International Airport (DTB) to get to Lake Toba. In our case, we arrived at DTB and returned to Kuala Lumpur from KNO.

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Previous Page : An open-air courtyard that can be found at Tjong A Fie Mansion.

This Page Clockwise from Top Left: Travellers are encouraged to visit these Sumatran elephants at Tangkahan to support its conservation effort; The experience encountering Sumatran orangutans at Gunung Leuser National Park was definitely unforgettable; The view from our room at Hotel Inna Parapat.

Piltik Homestay & Café (https://m.facebook.com/Piltikhomestay/) Besides offering comfortable guest rooms, this lovely property in Siborongborong coloured in white also serves as a café serving Batak menus, making it a good stop for lunch.

Some of the recommended dishes are ayam bumbu rempah Batak, ikan mas arsik and fried cassava with sambal belacan.

For drinks, the café’s signature is their own-brewed single origin Arabica coffee. This place has the view of vast paddy fields so diners can take in the serene rural landscape while dining here.

Eden 100 Park The name ‘Eden’ is symbolically chosen to describe the concept of this park where humans, animals and plants coexist in harmony, while ‘100’ refers to the number of plants that can be found within the 55-hectare park. But the most iconic is the endemic plant called andaliman (Sichuan pepper), a common ingredient used in many Batak traditional dishes. Besides learning about the plants, another popular activity that can be done here is trekking to Lumban Rang Waterfall, which holds a huge boulder believed to be thrown to its current place when the supervolcanic eruption happened 75,000 years ago!

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Hotel Inna Parapat (http://www.innaparapathotel.com/) This pretty hotel in Parapat sits just next to Lake Toba, therefore the view from the balcony of the hotel’s guestrooms is effortlessly majestic! Each of the rooms is cosy and well-equipped with air-conditioning unit, hot shower and television. Its in-house restaurant called Pasir Soso faces Lake Toba, so travellers can enjoy the view even more. Another plus point about this hotel is its beautifully landscaped European-style garden, which is Instagramworthy.

Huta Siallagan A must-visit when being on Samosir Island, this 2,400-metre squared ancient Batak ethnic village is surrounded by a stone wall and contains stellar examples of traditional Batak architecture. ‘Huta’ means village and ‘Siallagan’ refers to the clan inhabiting it. Other interesting items that can be seen here are the two sets of 500-year old Batu Parsidangan (Stones for Conferring) located just a few metres away from each other: one for meetings and trials, while the other is for carrying out executions. Travellers should also participate in Sigale-gale ritual, a common practice to welcome visitors.

Silimalombu Eco Village (https://www.facebook.com/EcovillageSamosir/) This village’s name literally means ‘the five cows’. Located in the subdistrict of Onan Runggu, the village stands on familyowned land, serving as a homestay hosted by the friendly, live-wire Ibu Ratna and her husband, Pak Thomas. This is where travellers get to participate in invigorating activities

Some of the delectable foods we savoured at Pondok Punokawan.

such as visiting the farm and harvesting peanuts manually!

The lunch here is exceptionally delicious.

Pondok Punokawan, Binjai Specialising in Javanese cuisine, this restaurant in Binjai has ample space catering to a large number of diners any time.

Among the favourite dishes are ayam ras penyet and tumis kangkung belerang. For the convenience of travellers, the restaurant provides prayer room and playground for children as well.

Ecolodge Bukit Lawang (https://ecolodges.id/en/) This eco-friendly resort offers six types of accommodations namely Siamang Lodge, Hornbill Lodge, Orangutan Lodge, Thomas Leaf Monkey Lodge, Butterfly Lodge and Rimba Lodge. Surrounded by lush rainforest with a calming view of the pristine river, travellers can expect back-to-nature staycation when putting up here. Since it is strategically located next to the main entrance of Gunung Leuser National Park, travellers can participate in interesting activities like jungle-trekking, which we found remarkably rewarding.

After three hours of trekking, we eventually encountered the critically-endangered species of wild Sumatran orangutans that live freely in their natural habitat. Though this activity depends on one’s luck, at most times, travellers are bound to witness these adorable creatures. Trekking within Gunung

the programme by participating in activities that charge certain fees, for instance feeding the elephants, bathing with them and even following them into the jungle under the supervision of their mahouts to observe their natural behaviour.

Explore Sumatera River Camp (https://www.explore-sumatera.com/) If you are into outdoor activities, then this place in Namu Sira Sira, Bingai is highly recommended. There are plenty of activities travellers can participate such as camping, paintball, archery, trekking and water rafting, which is nothing short of exciting! The view along the river is breathtaking. When we were rafting, we made a few stops to enjoy nature by doing activities like swimming and cliff-jumping. Thanks to our instructors, the two-hour rafting experience was both enjoyable and safe.

While in Medan, be sure to visit these places…

One of the influencers, Ika Shafarey, donning the traditional costumes at Maimun Palace.

Leuser National Park needs to be led by licensed, highlyskilled rangers for a safe and enriching experience.

Along the trek, travellers get to learn about the national park and its biodiversity, on top of stumbling upon the friendly, cool-looking Thomas’s langur, locally called kedih.

About Gunung Leuser National Park Spanning 950,000 hectares, this park is regarded as the green heart of Sumatra. Having been enlisted as UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004, it earned the title ‘The Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra’, shared with two other national parks: Kerinci Seblat, and Bukit Barisan Selatan.

Tangkahan (http://www.bukitlawang.com/Tangkahan) “We are not promoting these elephants but instead the harmonious coexistence between humans and animals,” mentioned the guide when we met the elephants at this conservation area. To avoid human-elephant conflicts and fight poachers, the Conservation Response Unit has been established. But running such effort requires huge support to ensure that these Sumatran elephants can lead a better life.

Travellers are encouraged to visit this place not only to appreciate these giant, gentle creatures but to support

Tjong A Fie Mansion (https://tjongafiemansion.org/) The China-born Tjong A Fie was an influential businessman in Medan back in the early 1900s. His businesses included real estate, mining, banks, railroads, coconut, tobacco, tea, rubber, palm oil and sugar plantation. Basing on his good relationship with the Sultanate of Deli, Chinese merchants and Dutch colonisers, he was highly respected. But more than that, he was recognised for his outstanding, noprejudice philanthropy. He built schools, hospitals and even religious buildings like mosques, churches and temples.

This 35-room and two-storey mansion used to be the resident of Tjong A Fie and his large family. Now turned into a museum, travellers will definitely be in awe knowing how this majestic building was once part of his extraordinary life. The building was constructed in accordance to feng shui principles while incorporating Malay, Chinese and Western design styles.

Maimun Palace This museum, which was built between 1887 and 1891, used to be the royal palace of the Sultanate of Deli. It showcases a grand architecture symbolising the sultanate’s sovereignty with a mixture of foreign influences such as Moghul, Spanish and Italian. Travellers should rent out and don the striking traditional costumes – at a fee ranging from IDR25,000 to IDR150,000 – and take memorable shots around the palace, including at its ornately-decorated Balairong Seri (The Great Hall).

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 North Sumatra smooth sailing.

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Destinations

Administratively Beautiful Putrajaya Te x t b y H A N I A R A F E I Images by N U R U L S Y I FA A RA M LA N

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Speaking about Putrajaya, this may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning your holiday. But after saying that, it does not mean that Putrajaya has nothing interesting to offer. While Kuala Lumpur (KL) remains as the capital city of Malaysia, Putrajaya – which is also the third Federal Territory of Malaysia after KL and Labuan – has been functioning as Malaysia’s federal administrative centre since 1999.

Surrounded by greenery, grand government buildings, scenic bridges and wide boulevards, Putrajaya seems to have been designed differently than the other cities in Malaysia. Read on to find out what you experience whenever you are in Malaysia’s most well-planned city!

Good to know: » Putrajaya was named after the first prime minister of Malaysia Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra. » The first person who lived in Seri Perdana (the official residence for the Prime Minister of Malaysia) was Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad, the country’s fourth and seventh prime minister. » One of Putrajaya’s bridges was featured in a Korean drama entitled ‘On The Way To The Airport’ back in 2016 starring Lee Sang Yoon and Kim Ha Neul (if you haven’t watch this yet, feel free to do so! A few episodes of this interesting drama were filmed in Malaysia.)

Clockwise from above: Travellers who were taken to various landmarks in Putrajaya during the Putrajaya Night Bridge Tour by HOHO bus posing in front of Perdana Putra, the building that houses Malaysian Prime Minister’s office; Travellers trying to spot birds at Taman Wetlands Putrajaya during the inaugural Putrajaya Bird Race; The writer trying out the judge ceremonial robe that costs more than MYR18,000 to have her photo taken.

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GETTING TO PUTRAJAYA If you’re wondering how to get to Putrajaya, fret not, Gaya Travel team has your back! Since Putrajaya is located south of Kuala Lumpur, it is easy to reach Putrajaya from KL’s transport hubs. There are three modes you can choose to get to Putrajaya from KL.

By Train This is the fastest way. Hop on the KLIA Transit service from KL Sentral and disembark at Putrajaya/Cyberjaya station.

The ticket costs MYR14 per adult (one way) and MYR6.30 for children between the ages 6 and 15 years. All university student who owns Bank Rakyat 1Malaysia student discount card, consider yourself lucky for reading this article because you will get 30% discount (at the price of RM9.50 per way) if you show this card together with your student ID card when purchasing the ticket at the counter!

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Good to know: Once you purchased the train ticket, you have only two minutes of grace period to enter the platform to catch the train to Putrajaya/Cyberjaya station via the automated gates where you need to scan your ticket to enter, therefore you need to be fast, otherwise you’ll have to purchase another ticket! Also, please don’t get confused between KLIA Transit and KLIA Express (this one will take you directly to KLIA/KLIA2).

By Bus Taking the bus to Putrajaya is time consuming because you need to make several transits. From KL Sentral, you need to walk to NU Sentral bus station and then wait for bus number 500, which will take you to Lebuh Pudu hub, where you need to wait for bus number 522 to get to Masjid Putrajaya/ Putra Square. Do check the schedule and plan your journey by downloading the Moovit app or from the website https:// www.myrapid.com.my/plan-my-journey.

By Car If you prefer to drive, it should take you around 40 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur City Centre, provided the traffic is smooth.

WHAT TO DO IN PUTRAJAYA Note: Modest attire is required when visiting most of the places mentioned here. Certain places also prohibit round neck t-shirts, shorts, singlets, sandals or immodest attire.

Travel back in time at the Justice Museum (Muzium Kehakiman) (https://m.facebook.com/pages/Palace-of-JusticePutrajaya/493932090750782)

Admire for its Taj Mahal-like architecture, the Palace of Justice houses the judiciary, courts and offices. It overlooks a spacious courtyard that is often used for large-scale events.

However, few people are unaware about the existence of the Justice Museum located inside. Just because you don’t work in the legal field doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy spending time here. There are many things to learn since it compares the old legal system with the one currently in use. In this museum, you can learn how Malaysia’s legal system is developed, view a mock-up High Court trial, see wigs worn by the judges and other lawyerly paraphernalia.

Fun Fact: » When walking around the museum, you will get the chance to see an illustration of a court room proceeding conducted in the presence of jury back in the old days.

However, the system was abolished in 1995. The last case that used this system was the Mona Fendi case. » The wig donned by judges was last used during the 1980s in Malaysia. It was discarded because the government opted for a more Malaysian look. » You can see a red robe called the Scarlet Robe in this museum, no more used today. Back in the 1970s, if a judge were to wear that robe when giving out his verdict, the sight was enough to put fear into the hearts of the most hardened criminals because it surely meant death penalty.

Good to know: » You’ll get the chance to wear a ceremonial robe and take pictures for free, which I did! I was told that each robe costs between MYR18,000 and RM19,000. » You are allowed to take photos inside the museum but not in the courtrooms. » There is no admission fee (FOC). » Smart attire is required, no t-shirts, shorts or flip flops. » Before entering the museum, your bags will be scanned (same thing happen when you’re about to enter an airport departure hall) due to safety reasons.

Operating hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday Gain knowledge about Islam at Nasyrul Quran Complex Nasyrul Quran is a leading integrated Quranic printing centre in Southeast Asia. This complex was built for Malaysia to have a world-class and second largest Quranic production centre. Visitors will be stunned by the beautiful mosaic decoration inside the building. Valuable handwritten Quranic manuscripts decorated in gold that originated from each state of Malaysia are publicly exhibited at Nasyrul Quran

Complex and people can freely take pictures. Visitors will be able to witness Quran manuscripts from other countries too.

Fun Fact: Nasyrul Quran is inspired from the Arabic word meaning ‘the spread of Quran’.

Good to know: » It is strongly recommended for you to fill up an online form on the website https://www.nasyrulquran.com before arriving so that the staff can receive you better. » Nasyrul Quran Complex lends out robes to visitors for free. » Although there are signs saying ‘No Photography Allowed’ hanging on the walls, visitors can still take pictures because the management wants more people to know about the place via social media. » You will be able to witness and step into the factory where contemporary Quran manuscripts are produced. » Do take note that if your group consists of less than 10 persons, the areas within the complex that you can visit will be limited. For a group of 10 or more, they are allowed to enter all areas within the complex during the tour.

Operating hours: Opens daily from 7:00 a.m. until 2:30 a.m., and 4:00 p.m. until dawn during Ramadhan.

Enjoy Putrajaya Night Bridge Tour with Hop On Hop Off bus (HOHO) Stunning night lights and sights awaits as you hop on the KL Hop-On Hop-Off (https://www.facebook.com/hoponholidays/) city tour bus, which brings you to the magnificent mosques like the Putra Mosque and Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque (also known as the Iron Mosque), including landmark bridges such as Seri Wawasan, Seri Saujana, Seri Gemilang, and Putra, besides Putrajaya International Convention Centre and Perdana Putra.

TOUR DETAILS Duration: 4 hours (6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) Daily Departure Pickup Location: Sungei Wang Counter Tickets Prices: MYR120 per adult, MYR65 per child Tour Route: Sungei Wang, PICC- Seri Gemilang Bridge, Putra Bridge - Dataran Putra, Seri Bestari Bridge, Seri Bakti Bridge, Seri Perdana Bridge, Seri Wawasan Bridge, Seri Saujana Bridge and return to Sungei Wang

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Operating hours: Opens from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on weekdays, and from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Saturdays (closed on Sundays).

Admission is free.

Grab a bite at LC Restaurant This has got to be one of the best places to eat in Putrajaya!

The restaurant’s signature food is kari kepala ikan (curry fish head), set ikan bawal padu (pomfret fish set) and mee goreng sotong (fried noodle with squid). Diners enjoy all three delicious dishes. The price range for seafood curry fish head ranges between MYR65 to MYR120 (depending on size), while pomfret fish set costs MYR11.90 and fried noodle MYR6.90.

Fun Fact: LC stands for “Line Clear”

Good to know: The restaurant provides a VIP room for special occasions. If you plan to do hold celebration or function at the restaurant, you can simply make your reservation at via https://m. facebook.com/lcrestaurantputrajaya/ or call +6 017 409 6129.

Top: A Quran mushaf sporting the design elements inspired by Petronas Twin Towers, which was presented to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as a gift when he was the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia. Bottom: Kari kepala ikan (fish head curry), one of LC’s signature dishes.

Visit Seri Perdana Complex One must include this place in their list when being in Putrajaya. Seri Perdana Complex is an official residence of Malaysia’s Prime Minister when welcoming the heads of state, heads of government, state dignitaries and the public.

In line with the idea that Seri Perdana belongs to the people, certain sections in this place namely Protocol Block and Banquet Block can be visited by the public. Located on Persiaran Seri Perdana, Presint 10, the complex incorporates Malay, Islamic and European design elements. All groups of visitors will be escorted by a designated tour guide. I was totally amazed by the design of each room, which make you feel like entering the chambers of a European imperial palace.

Fun Fact: » The sky wallpaper in the Banquet Hall is the exact sky captured on camera back in 1999 and then printed out and turned into wallpaper for the hall. » In the Banquet Block, visitors get to see the first Malaysian flag with only 11 stripes before the inclusion of Sabah and Sarawak into the Federation of Malaysia.

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Good to know: » You need to fill up an online form from the website at least 7 days before your intended visit. » Visitors are not allowed to take photos using their own gadgets. For a fee of RM25, you will be provided with an official photographer who will take 15 photos of you at the Banquet Hall, which are then downloaded into a USB flash drive for you to take home. » If you wish to walk-in for a tour, it is advisable that you first check on the website http://www.seriperdana.gov.my/ v2/ to make sure that the complex is open when you arrive.

4. Please wear modest attire as a sign of respect.

Operating hours: Alternatively, the complex is open for walk-in guests on Mondays until Thursdays, including Saturdays and Sundays, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Lunch break is between 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.

The complex is closed on Fridays and Public Holidays Sleep and recharge at Shaftsbury stellar Situated close to the shopping centre Alamanda Putrajaya, this hotel started its operation in late 2018. This 4-star property is fully equipped with facilities and ideal for fun and relaxation because it allows easy access to Putrajaya’s various attractions. While staying at this wonderful property, guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour security, convenience store, daily housekeeping and transfer services.

The Blue Room at Sri Perdana is the place where special high level guests such as Heads of State and important dignitaries are received.

Good to know: » Alamanda Putrajaya is only around 10 minutes’ walk from this hotel. » The hotel is close to Starbucks and McDonalds, so if you’re feeling peckish at night, you can simply have your supper at these outlets!

Participate in the annual Putrajaya Bird Race Though Putrajaya might pass as too quiet on the surface, this city is actually abuzz with many events. For the first time in November 2019, Putrajaya held its inaugural Bird Race (https://www.facebook.com/birdraceputrajaya2019/) at Putrajaya Wetlands Park in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign. Due to the overwhelming response, Putrajaya Corporation (https://www.ppj.gov.my/) plans to hold this event annually. Bird race involves observing, photographing and recording/jotting down all bird species found in a particular area within the limited time given.

Putrajaya Bird Race promotes the city as an ecotourism destination and an urban birding spot in Malaysia.

Interestingly, primary schoolchildren can also participate in this race! Admission fee for the public is MYR10 per person, and the bird race participants are grouped in threes.

Gaya Travel Magazine team members express our heartfelt gratitude to Putrajaya Corporation for bringing us – together with other selected media representatives, bloggers and influencers – to experience Putrajaya during the Putrajaya Bird Race 2019.

Destinations

Tioman, I ’m in Love!

Te x t & I m a g e s b y H A N I A R A F E I

Editor: Nia, you’re going to Tioman Me: *freeze for a while* Oh okay, sure! (Trying hard to hide my excitement) I’ve never been to Tioman before, but it has always been on my bucket list. Imagine the excitement when I was told I’ll be going there for four days and three nights to follow a media familiarisation trip! With my suitcase already packed together in my island outfit, hat, and sunblock, I was raring to go. Follow me as I share my experience on Tioman Island for the first time in my life.

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The name Tioman is believed to have been derived from the combination of the words tiong (a type of a local bird classified as common myna) and man (meaning ‘mine’ in local slang). If you look closely at the shape of the island on the map, it seems to resemble a tear drop. Tioman has always been one of the cleanest islands in Malaysia because it is well maintained.

How to get to Tioman/Getting to Tioman If you come from Kuala Lumpur, you can simply drive your car or ride a bus to Jeti Tanjung Gemok in Pahang.

The journey takes around five hours. The jetty provides ample parking spaces and you don’t have to worry about anyone breaking into your car because it is well guarded.

Once you arrived at the jetty, you can buy your tickets to board the ferry at MYR35 per adult and MYR30 per child one way. Each return ticket costs MYR70 per adult and MY60 per child. The journey to Tioman from Tanjung Gemok by ferry takes another two hours.

If you’re heading to Kampung Juara, which is on the eastern side of the island, there’s a four-wheel drive service that takes you there from Kampung Tekek, the place where you disembark form the ferry. Due to the rough road conditions and uneven terrain passing through the middle of the island, it is obvious why fourwheel drive is the only type of vehicle used on the island.

The journey from Kampung Tekek to Kampung Juara is between 30 to 40 minutes.

Tip:

»

An alternative way to reach Tioman is to directly board the ferry from Mersing, which makes sense if you come from Johor or Singapore. » Though the ferry ticket displays your seat number, it is actually free seating when you get on board, so don’t be surprised if you find someone else sitting at the seat that bears your number; just plonk yourself in any other available seat. » The four-wheel drive service is only available at Kampung Tekek jetty and it will take you to Kampung Juara using the sole road on Tioman that connects the two villages. To get to the other parts of the island, you need water taxi or speedboat provided at each jetty that dot around the island or at the resort where you choose to stay.

WHAT TO DO IN TIOMAN When you’re going to an island, you definitely have your own bucket list on what to do there. Check the following activities to see whether you would like to do them when you are in Tioman, which are quite varied!

Snorkelling Snorkelling is a must-do activity when you’re in Tioman!

The water is crystal clear that you can see all the fish and corals beneath you. You can snorkel anywhere in Tioman, but the best spots for snorkelling are Pulau Rengis, Marine Park and Pulau Tumok. If you’re planning to snorkel at two spots, then I suggest that you choose Pulau Rengis and Pulau Tumok, which are unique and beautiful in their own way. When you snorkel at Pulau Rengis, you will witness a variety of beautiful fishes; when you are in Pulau Tumok, you will see beautiful corals in many sizes.

Clockwise from top: A view of Tioman Island landscape; PADI Diving centre near Damai Tioman Resort where you can try Discover Scuba Diving or take diving license; Tunamaya Resort, which offers private beach.

Tip: You can purchase snorkelling packages not only at the resort where you are staying but also from any other independent providers or operators on the island. You can rent snorkelling gear and speedboat service to other villages in Tioman from them too. The price for snorkelling package starts at MYR70 - MYR120 per person.

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Discovery Scuba Diving (DSD) This is definitely the highlight of my trip. It would be a waste if you don’t try this activity, which gives you the chance to dive into the sea rather than just snorkel. Before diving, you need to fill in an indemnification form.

Then, you can choose the diving suit according to your size, including scuba fins. As for the rest of the equipment, the instructors will carry it for you. The instructors will then brief you on how to handle the equipment and what you should do underwater. When I went down, I felt so small compared to the wide ocean, and seemed like I entered a different world. But believe me, the experience was worth it because I swam side by side with variety of fishes and turtles while admiring the seabed covered with corals and sand. The amount of time allocated for DSD is two hours. If you plan to try DSD, best to do it in the morning or afternoon as the water is clearer at those times rather than in the evening.

Tip:

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In Kampung Genting, there’s a PADI centre offering DSD activities for as low as MYR180. The equipment provided are new and comfortable, plus the instructors are super friendly and helpful, who will guide you one by one and won’t leave you alone underwater. You can reach the instructor (Irwan Ismail) personally at +6 012 214 1979 or email him at sortemetstell@gmail.com for any booking. » If you plan to take a diving licence, I was told that it requires at least four days’ stay in Tioman to obtain licence from a PADI centre at the price of MYR1,200. Be sure to research on the best places to take diving licence in Tioman before arriving if you plan to do so.

Island-Hopping There are many small islands around Tioman, so you can take the chance to visit most of it. Island-hopping packages are usually included with snorkelling, so you don’t have to book separately. Enjoy the breeze, wind blowing in your face, and looking at the beautiful islands as you are whisked on a speedboat to the middle of the sea.

Dipping into the Waterfalls at Kampung Asah Not many travellers know about this hidden gem in Tioman. If you’ve had enough of vitamin sea, head out to Kampung Asah for a refreshing dip at the waterfalls. You need to take the speedboat to Kampung Asah jetty and then hike for about 600 metres to reach the waterfalls – once you reach the waterfalls, you will find that the hike was totally worth it as you dip into the refreshing cool water.

Berjaya Tioman Resort (https://www.berjayahotel.com/tioman) Situated in Kampung Tekek and not far from the jetty, this resort is definitely a good and stylish place, fully equipped with expected conveniences and amenities, suitable for those who wish for a luxury stay in Tioman. It is also the jump off point to Pulau Renggis, where you can easily snorkel to observe marine life! This resort’s rate starts from MYR345 per night, which includes breakfast.

Tip: If you can’t swim (like me), I suggest that you to wear a life jacket because certain places are deep that you will be totally submerged, a boon to those who are adventurous enough to jump into the water from higher ground.

Rock-Climbing at Gunung Nenek Semukut Gunung Nenek Semukut or ‘Dragon Horns’ offers a challenging rockclimbing experience. I was told that if anyone wishes to do rockclimbing, it requires around five days to scale it. Interestingly, only nine people have managed to reach the top of Gunung Nenek Semukut.

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Jungle-Trekking While riding on a four-wheel drive from Tekek to Juara, the driver told me that one of the famous activities in Tioman is jungle-trekking! There’s a lot of rainforest to be explored on Tioman and you will find many species of flora and fauna. But bear in mind, some tracks are challenging so DO NOT GO JUNGLETREKKING ALONE – it is best for you to hire an experienced jungle-trekker to guide you.

Witnessing Sunset at Marine Park Besides snorkelling and playing near the beach, you can witness a beautiful sunset at Marine Park.

Afterwards, walk to the nearby stalls and enjoy scrumptious island dinner there!

Shopping at Duty-Free Shop Believe it or not, there is a duty-free shop in Tioman. Chocolate lovers are definitely spoiled for choice Tip: Internet connection is patchy in Tioman, so it is advisable for you to pay in cash rather than using your card.

Top: The refreshing Asah Waterfall - be sure to wear a life jacket if you can’t swim Bottom: Damai Tioman Resort’s comfortable room.

Cycling If you love to cycle, then you should rent a bicycle at Kampung Tekek or Kampung Juara and cycle around for MYR10 an hour. You can stop and get off your bike at any place that catches your attention to take photos. Some spots in Tioman are too far to reach on foot, so cycling is a good option for you to get there.

WHERE TO STAY IN TIOMAN Once you have decided on what activities to do in Tioman, it is now time to pick the place where you are going to stay in Tioman, which help to make your visit to the island more memorable!

Good to know: The room is spacious and comes with powerful air-conditioning unit. Staff are friendly and helpful. However, do take note that the commodes do not come with bidet or hose for washing down. You can request for a buggy ride to get to the dining area or simply walk there and take in the resort’s atmosphere at the same time. Be sure to NOT press the lock button on the door knob once you exit your room because the door locks automatically; if you press the lock button (like what I did), you can’t open your door and need to wait for the staff to come over to enter the room.

Side Note: Berjaya Tioman Resort is closed from 1 December 2019 until 19 January 2020 for maintenance.

Barat Tioman Beach Resort (https://barattioman.com/) I really am in love with this resort, situated in Kampung Juara that requires you to take a four-wheel drive to reach here from Tekek. All rooms are designed facing the pool, and you only need to walk 50 metres to the beach! If you wish to watch television, you can go to the reception counter and they will give you a hard disk full of interesting movies to watch! The view is amazing and totally Instagram-worthy. The price starts from MYR280 for high season and MYR220 for low season.

Good to know: This place is suitable for those who are on backpacking trip and don’t wish to do that many activities, preferring to relax instead while enjoying the view of the beach views from the room. Neither internet connectivity nor electricity supply is strong in Kampung Juara, so travellers better be prepared. There is no telephone in the rooms, so you need to walk down to the reception (which is really close from your room) to make a request.

Damai Tioman Resort (https://damai-tioman-resort-pulautioman.business.site/) Nestled in Kampung Genting, Damai Tioman Resorts is strategically close to a variety of shops that you can walk to them without breaking a sweat.

Kampung Genting is full of locals and visitors, and comes alive at night. This resort offers a diving package since a PADI-certified centre is located right next to it, making Kampung Genting a hub for divers. On top of that, Damai Tioman Resort offers an affordable price that starts at MYR210 per night.

Good to know: Damai Tioman resort is basically a ‘budget’ resort, therefore it is suited for those wishing to spend less on accommodation and prefer to spend more time outdoors. Shops are accessible by foot. Since the resort has no telephone in the rooms, you need to go down to the reception counter to make a request. DTR offers interesting packages for guests to choose, including snorkelling, island hopping and more.

Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort (https://careluxuryhotels.com/tunamayatioman/) If you wish on a private luxury stays, then head out to Tunamaya resorts, it is located at Kampung Mukut. They have their own private jet/speedboat for

their customers. When I arrived at the resort, the staff gathered at the jetty and greeted everyone by singing the upbeat local folk song ‘Rasa Sayang’. This resort is breathtaking as it overlooks the turquoise sea! It also boasts a private beach for guests to enjoy and the rate starts at MYR400++, which I think is reasonable since it offers the much needed privacy that guests seek.

Good to know: Tunamaya’s rooms offer three different views so that customers can choose the view they prefer: beach, garden, or jungle. Apart from that, since it is a private place, it is not crowded; in fact, you barely see anyone except the staff. You can swim in the resort’s infinity pool that faces the beach. This is a highly recommended place for those who wish to go on a honeymoon.

Aman Tioman Beach resort (https://amantioman.com/) This resort is relatively new and started operating since mid-2018. Located at Kampung Paya, the prices of the rooms start at around MYR400++. This resort offers a unique experience because you’ll feel like you are staying in a resort right in the middle of a jungle due to the lush surrounding greenery.

And most interestingly, you can swim in the pool where the water is sourced directly from the nearby mountain! The place is fully equipped and they even have their own shops, so you don’t have to go far to buy what you want. But when staying here, please be careful if you encounter harmless-looking-butno-less-mischievous monkeys that could snatch your things away.

Good to know: Aman Tioman offers three-day and two-night package, including breakfast and snorkelling for two persons at MYR300++ per person. Contact the resort at sales@amantioman.com for more information.

Travel tips: » Internet access is patchy in Tioman, so do take a mental note that social media might not be accessible at many a time. » It is highly recommended that you pay in cash when shopping on the island. Due to line / connectivity problem, there might be a delay in processing your payment if you use credit or debit cards, so you need to wait longer for the process to go through. On opt of that, cashless payment is applicable only if you spend at least MY50 and above. » Most resorts in Tioman are closed during monsoon season (early December until midJanuary, sometimes even until early February), so there is limited ferry service that time. If you’re planning to go there during monsoon season, kindly do a thorough research on where to stay. Prices are generally low that time. From what I was told, Barat Tioman Resort would still be in operation during monsoon because the guests are there for surfing. » When taking the ferry to Tioman, please be there at least an hour earlier because the ferry might not stick to the timetable and it might come and leave earlier than the stipulated time. Conversely, it would also arrive late yet still leave early and wouldn’t wait for you.

Be sure to allocate ample time to accommodate such uncertainty. » All villages in Tioman are uniquely beautiful in their own way, so you will totally experience a different feel when you visit each village. » If you have seasickness, make sure to bring along your medicine because the ride on the ferry can be rough (I slept for two hours to stop feeling nauseous); fret not, the ferry provides a small plastic bag on every seat for you to use just in case.

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Destinations

RENTAK SELANGOR 4 Discovering Selangor’s rhythm and soul Te x t b y H A N I A R A F E I Images by N U R U L S Y I FA A RA M LA N

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Selangor is a progressive and well-developed state that surrounds Kuala Lumpur. The different ethnic groups who make Selangor their home uphold their own identity, culture and traditions, resulting in a vibrant kaleidoscopic reflection.

In October 2019, Selangor State Economic Planning Unit (UPEN) and Gaya Travel Magazine organised a programme to highlight the intangible heritage found in Selangor called Rentak Selangor for the fourth time (RS4) by showcasing cultural performances by the Chinese, Indian, Malay and Orang Asli (Temuan Tribe) communities who reside in the state. Selected representatives from the media, including bloggers and influencers, participated in this three-day and two-night programme to experience Selangor’s beats and sounds.

Due to the ubiquity of internationally popular Westernised music, people these days tend to turn their heads away from the more traditional art forms.Interestingly, during this programme, it is heartening to see that many youngsters and youths were involved in the performances, indicating that ethnic music and culture are actively passed on to the next generation and kept alive in Selangor.

The four-stringed Chinese musical instrument called pipa, also known as Chinese lute, is part of PMO Chinese Orchestra ensemble.

What traditional performances that you can catch in Selangor?

CHINESE BEATS PMO Chinese Orchestra The RS4 participants were brought to Catholic High School Petaling Jaya (http://www.chspj.edu.my/) to witness an awesome orchestral performance by the students using Chinese musical instruments based on the structure and principles of the western symphony orchestra. Using instruments such as erhu, pipa, dulcimer and bamboo flute, this orchestra is divided into four sections: wind, plucked strings, bow strings and percussion. Catholic High School Petaling Jaya takes the initiative in helping to ensure that the art of playing traditional Chinese musical instruments endures in Selangor.

Glossary: Erhu = a two stringed bow Chinese musical instrument, also known as the Chinese violin or Chinese twostringed fiddle.

Pipa = a four-string Chinese musical instrument, also known as Chinese lute.

Dulcimer = a plucked string instrument played using rubber tipped sticks.

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Clockwise from above: 24 Seasons Drum performance, whereby the name of each season is written in Chinese calligraphy on each of the drums; Performers of Kolattam dance in pairs and following their leader’s movements while each of them holding two sticks; Viola, an instrument that are integral to caklempong and keroncong performance

Wushu Turning martial arts into a visual art form, the audience were captivated by the energetic and vigorous performance by the students of Catholic High School Petaling Jaya’s Wushu Club.

Wushu was developed in 1949 in an effort to standardise the practice of traditional Chinese martial arts. The modern concept of wushu were fully developed by the Ming and Qing dynasties. In wushu competition, formats and rules were formalised, and teaching methods and materials were standardised. A few types of wushu performances that can be seen are Wushu Weapons, Double Weapons, Flag, Double Taiji Sword, Trio Taiji Broadsword and Trio Taijiquan.

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24 Seasons Drum This is a Malaysian musical performance invented back in 1988 by a music teacher, Tan Hooi Song, together with a poet, Tan Chai Puan, at Foon Yew High School in Johor. As its name suggests, this performance

by Catholic High School Petaling Jaya’s students consists of 24 large drums called shigu to represent the agricultural seasons according to Chinese Calendar. The performance depicts movements of farmers and activities at a farm. The name of each season is written in Chinese calligraphy on the drum. It is then played by striking two wooden sticks onto its surface, sides or hitting the two sticks together.

Good to know: Each colour of the shigu carries a special meaning: 1. Red = auspiciousness and passion 2. Black = perseverance 3.Yellow = Chinese culture and tradition

INDIAN BEATS Kolattam Dance This is a traditional dance originated from India. In the past, the dance was performed solely by women; however, the dance now is performed by both men and women and popularly performed during festivals. Kolattam means ‘pattern’, whereby the performers dance about in pairs, following their leader’s movements while holding and moving two sticks. This dance combines rhythmic movements, songs, and music. The minimum number of dancers required to perform Kolattam is four people, while maximum is 20, but it could be more depending on the availability of space. Dancers don traditional attire when performing.

Instruments use for this performance are Thavil, Phambai and Urumi.

T: +6 012 2108724 (Ruben) / +6 016 3611533 (Ravi) MALAY BEATS Kuda Kepang This traditional dance, performed by Selangor State Cultural Council during RS4, originated from the island of Java and gives chills the moment you hear the music playing, especially at night.

This dance is usually performed by nine up to 15 male dancers. The leader, called ‘Danyang’, leads the dancers by using a whip. Each dancer sits astride a mock horse made from braiden strips of woven bamboo, decorated merrily with beads and sequins and painted in bright colours. This dance portrays a troop of riders riding horses.

Caklempong This traditional percussion music, performed during RS4 by a troupe named Suara-Suara Otai, were brought to Malaysia by the Minangkabau

people who hailed from West Sumatra.

It first reached Negeri Sembilan, but now has spread throughout the country.

This music is also taught in schools and universities as part of the co-curricular activities. Caklempong ensemble comprises bamboo flute, gereteh (a collection of brass gongs that are struck by a performer to produce melody), sauwa (a collection of brass gongs that are struck to produce bass), tingkah (a collection of brass gongs that are to produce rhythm), rebana (drum) and gong.

Silat Cimande There are several types of silat (Malay martial art), and this time the participants of RS4 were introduced to Silat Cimande, one of the oldest silat originated from West Java, Indonesia. People learn this martial art to protect themselves and their families from danger, especially marauders.

Interestingly, this silat demands the practitioner to take the moral high ground such as obeying the Almighty (Allah), always respect their parents, never gamble or steal, and duly pay their debts, among others.

T: +6 010 4258696 (Yahya bin Abdullah Husin) Tor-Tor dance This traditional dance – performed during funerals and to heal the wounded – originated from the Batak Tribe of North Sumatera. These days, the dance is performed for entertainment purposes by showcasing hand movements and body gestures as a way to communicate. As the dancers move their hands, they have to make sure that the positions of their hands are never higher than their shoulders.

During RS4, this dance was performed

by Bougainvillaea Homestay Kampung Sungai Kertas Cultural Group.

Clockwise from above: Dancers straddling on a mock horses during a kuda kepang performance; An Orang Asli tribe called Temuan performing sewang bahbola, usually performed during ceremonies.

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Keroncong During RS4, the participants were serenaded by keroncong performance by a group called Orkes Keroncong Arif Lukisan (OKAL). It began to flourish in the Malay Peninsula beginning from 1930s due to the increasing number of labourers who hailed from the island of Java and brought keroncong with them. After World War II, numerous Malay keroncong songs became more popular.

The most famous one is by P.Ramlee entitled ‘Nak Dara Rindu’. The word keroncong was derived from the ‘chrong chrong chrong’ sound made from the ukulele-like instrument.

Keroncong ensemble consists of a vocalist who sings the melody in slow stagnant notes, often in vibrato style, backed up by flute, violin, two ukelele (four-stringed chak and three-stringed chuk) guitar, double bass, and cello.

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Joget Originated from Malacca, this traditional dance intends to spread happiness to its audience, where people usually can’t help but dance and clap along to the beat upon hearing the music. The dance is believed to be brought by the Portuguese when they came to Malacca. It is normally performed by couples during a wedding ceremony and during cultural functions.

The most well-known joget is ‘joget lambak’, this vivacious dance lures spectators to dance along. During RS4, as the dancers from Selangor State Cultural Council performed the joget, they eventually invited all participants to dance along and join in the fun.

RS4, the participants learned how to dance the sewang and play the Orang Asli instruments. This dance usually performed during thanksgiving ceremony, funeral, or even to treat the sick or wounded using the shamanistic way accompanied by live singing and rhythmic music produced by hitting bamboos. The dancers first start in a circle and then they spread out. These days, this dance is performed mainly for entertainment purposes. Travellers can witness this dance when they visit the Orang Asli Museum in Gombak.

T: +6 03 61868796 WHERE ELSE TO VISIT IN SELANGOR? Arulmigu Sri Ayyappa Swamy Devasthanam Temple in Batu Caves Fascinated by the place, everyone was pleasantly surprised to find this hidden gem in Batu Caves, which is less popular and not widely known compared to the other Batu Caves temples. It may look small from the outside, but once you enter, you will be surprised by its actual size, which is impressive. The next time you’re in Batu Caves, do visit this remarkable temple!

Morning worshipping time: Abishegam (starts at 5:30 a.m. and closes at 12 noon) Nithya Pooja (starts at 6:30 a.m. and closes at 12 noon)

ORANG ASLI BEATS

Evening worshipping time: Abishegam (starts at 4:30 p.m. and closes at 9:30 p.m.)

Nithya Pooja (starts at 6:30 p.m. and closes at 9:30 p.m.)

Sewang Bahbola dance It is easy to see that everyone has a good time when dancing along with the Orang Asli of the Temuan tribe as they are invited to join in. During

Anjung Spotter, KLIA This new attraction at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is the place where aviation enthusiasts and photographers should head to for

aircraft or plane spotting. This is the place for you to get an unobstructed view of aircrafts taking off and touching down at KLIA, triggering the wanderlust in you.

WHERE TO STAY? Dusun Bonda (https://www.dusunbonda.com/) This property offers small privatelyowned villas and bell-tent glamping site set within a tranquil fruit orchard.

You don’t have to drive all the way to Pahang to experience nature, but instead head to Dusun Bonda in Batang Kali, Selangor. Staying here makes you feel like you are really surrounded by nature. You can also take a dive in the refreshing stream and enjoy the lush surroundings. Dusun Bonda provides children-friendly facilities, man-made waterfall and pool as well. The place looks magical, especially at night when the lights are switched on.

Destinations

Pahang: An Extraordinarily Unforgettable Adventure 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

Frankly speaking, when it comes to finding a secret hideaway that is far from the hustle and bustle of the city, Pahang, the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, is one of my ultimate choices. After all, some of the attractions are easily accessible and located not too far away from metropolitan Kuala Lumpur.

Gaya Travel Magazine team recently joined a familiarization trip with bloggers and social media influencers organised by Tourism Malaysia to promote Visit Malaysia 2020. We were brought to experience Janda Baik, Raub and Sungai Lembing and here are some of the highlights that we think worth visiting..

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Top: Freshly plucked fig fruit that can be eaten right at the Fig Farm.

Bottom: A hearty spread we had for lunch at Restoran Pulau Santap.

JANDA BAIK 45 minutes by car from Kuala Lumpur Tiarasa Escape (https://www.tiarasaescapes.com/) Belonged to one of the prima donnas of Malaysian theatre, Puan Sri Tiara Jacquelina, who is fondly known for her compelling role as the leading actress in the play Puteri Gunung Ledang, this resort boasts 20 tented villas that are fully-furnished with comfortable bed, complimentary Wi-Fi connectivity, air conditioner and swanky, attached bathroom. With personal touches by the diva herself, travellers can find each room exclusively personalised for a noteworthy glamping experience. It has five, nicelydesigned tree top villas as well should travellers feel like staying a little bit out-ofordinary. The prices for a night here starts at MYR990.

Fig Farm Some locals refer the fig as ara, while others call it tin; one thing for sure, this fruit originated from the middle east and is evidently rich in nutrients, believed to have the ability to cure many diseases. Owned by a former contractor Mr Khairul Azmi Mohamad, this farm with 330 fig trees actually has just begun operating since February 2019. Travellers can visit the fig farm and pluck the fruits fresh from the trees for the price of MYR80 per kilogram. Next to the farm, travellers can savour cakes and dishes laced with figs such as nasi lemak, nasi dagang, pizza and sup tulang kerbau.

Operation hours: Tuesday to Thursday (3:00 p.m. until 12:00 a.m.)

Friday (11:00 a.m. until 12:00 a.m.)

Saturday (8:00 a.m. until 12:00 a.m.)

Bidaisari Resort (https://bidaisariresort.com/main/) This resort has 15 chalets, one bungalow and one cottage. It also has a swimming pool, a multipurpose field and a restaurant, making it ideal for team-building, family day or private staycation. The resort provides a myriad of activities too such as ATV ride, cycling, trekking to the waterfall, visiting fig farm, deer park, horse stable and more.

Restoran Pulau Santap This restaurant has been in existence for more than 20 years, said to be one of the earliest in the area. Originally, the building used to be the residence of inang (nursemaid or nanny who takes care of Sultan’s children). Besides, the area around Pulau Santap used to hold many public ceremonies organised by the palace since the late Sultan Abu Bakar of Pahang (born 29 May 1904, died 7 May 1974) loved to hold events to mingle with his subjects. Now serving as a restaurant, travellers can savour delectable traditional dishes like tilapia berlada, ikan pekasam, kari kambing, kerabu kacang botol, gulai daging salai and keli sambal.

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RAUB One hour and 30 minutes by car from Kuala Lumpur

into one of its 14 tunnels called Tabeto, the main tunnel that is also known as Tai Pei Tong among locals.

Tanah Aina Fahad (http://www.tanahaina.com/fahad/) Surrounded by pristine forest, Tanah Aina Fahad in Ulu Dong is one of the branches of the premium ecoresort chain called Tanah Aina. What differentiates Tanah Aina Fahad from its sister resorts is its focus on the theme ‘glamping’. It has three types of tents namely King, Queen and Single, which varies depending on size of the beds. It also has conventional rooms such as Terrance Room and Terrance Room Durian.

The journey begins by taking a ride on an old locomotive for about 80 metres into the Tabeto before continuing by foot. Information boards are placed at specific spots for travellers to learn more about the place. One of the most interesting parts is the Million Dollar Chamber, said to be the tunnel dug illegally by unsatisfied and unpaid miners after the closure of the mines in 1987. After labouring for some time, the miners managed to haul MYR1 million worth of tin, hence the chambers’ name.

The resort lies just next to Ulu Dong River where travellers can take a dip when the weather permits. Other activities travellers can do here are trekking in the forest and sit around camp fire. Since it has a large multipurpose hall, dining area and prayer hall, the resort is suitable as a family day and team-building venue.

Ticket prices: For Malaysians: MYR15 (adult) / MYR7.50 (child) For Non-Malaysians: MYR30 (adult) / MYR15 (child)

SUNGAI LEMBING 3-4 hours by car from Kuala Lumpur Sungai Lembing Underground Tin Mines Before the price of tin fell globally in 1985, Sungai Lembing was a celebrated underground tin-mining town dubbed as El Dorado of the East, founded by the British. The significance of Sungai Lembing tin mines is evident through its tunnels that total 322 kilometres in length, making it among the longest tin mining tunnels in the world. But today, travellers can only venture 600 metres

Sungai Lembing Museum For history enthusiasts, this museum standing at the top of a hill is worth visiting. Not only it gives a thorough explanation regarding Sungai Lembing as a major mining town during the British colonial era, the museum also exhibits splendid artefacts and dioramas about its history and natural resources. The museum possesses a British colonial-style architecture and once served as the home to one of the tin mine bosses.

Ticket price: For Malaysians: MYR2 (adult) / Free (child aged 12 years old and under) For Non-Malaysians: MYR5 (adult) / MYR3 (child aged six to 12) / Free

(child aged five and under) Kedai Makan Pok Yeh Owned by an ex-miner named Mohamad Idris Tenan or Pok Yeh, this restaurant is most of the time crowded with locals who love to savour his gravy-laden noodle dish called Mee Jawa. According to Pok Yeh, there is no secret behind his Mee Jawa since he merely maintains the recipe obtained from his Javanese ancestors. A bowl of this sweet, savoury noodle with ingredients such as star anise, clove, cinnamon, black pepper and coriander costs around MYR4 to MYR5.

TBox Sungai Lembing (https://www.tboxsungailembingresort. com/) This hotel, which perches on a hillside within Sungai Lembing town, offers as many as six types of accommodations: Japanese Double Room, Japanese Cabin, Backpacker Cabin, Colourful Cabin, Wooden Cottage and Wooden White House. Each room offers different kinds of environment to suit travellers’ comfort and budget.

Satay Sungai Lembing To make travellers’ journey to Sungai Lembing more complete, why not drop by at this restaurant and try out its juicy satay? Though satay is ubiquitous in Malaysia, travellers should realise that the taste can differ from one seller to another. The crucial things that sets the satay apart are the marinade and sauce used, which in Satay Sungai Lembing’s case, totally recommended. The price per stick is MYR0.80 for chicken and MYR0.90 for beef, which is value for money!

Clockwise from Top Left: The writer inside his glamping tent at Tanah Aina Fahad; The Million Dollar Chamber, one of the most intriguing parts at Sungai Lembing Underground Tin Mines; The lip-smacking satay Sungai Lembing getting grilled; The entrance of Sungai Lembing Museum.

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Rainbow Waterfall This is undeniably Sungai Lembing’s most photographed icon, famed for its kaleidoscopic rainbows naturally formed by a 500-feet waterfall that appears absolutely impressive, hence earning it the name Rainbow Waterfall. But be warned: the rainbow can only be observed between 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., depending on the weather. The best time to visit is from January until March. Lucky travellers could even witness double rainbows!

To get to this waterfall, travellers need to endure an hour of bumpy off-ride on fourwheel drive from Sungai Lembing town to its base called Lubuk Beruk before continuing the journey by foot for about 30 minutes.

This experience costs only MYR60 per person (minimum five people), which includes professional guide, transportation from Sungai Lembing to Lubuk Beruk and light lunch. To book, contact Mr Muhammad Ridzaldin Sukimi @ Tomas Smith at +6 012 9479 516.

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Tips to visit Rainbow Waterfall: » Wake up early (before sunrise, around 6:00 a.m.) to maximise your chance to see the rainbow. » Beware of unlicensed tour operators who might make your trip unsafe and risky. » Wear proper hiking attire and prepare necessary equipment like water-filled bottles and medicines before hiking. » At Lubuk Beruk, travellers can rent rubber shoes (MYR3 a pair) and use the toilets (MYR0.30 per entry).

Travellers are bound to be amazed with stunning beauty of Rainbow Waterfall

Nasha Foodcourt Not long ago, a video of Malaysia’s beloved current Queen of Malaysia, Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah binti Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj, ordering Mee Bandung in Sungai Lembing went viral on social media. The recipe belonged to the same cook of this humble restaurant, Mr Wan Sahidin. Though the price of a bowl of Mee Bandung here is only MYR6, the taste is literally fit for a king, or in this case, queen!

Destinations

Exploring Vibrant

SHAH ALAM Te x t & I m a g e s b y H A N I A R A F E I

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Shah Alam, the capital city of Selangor and a major industrial hub in Klang Valley, has now matured into a destination in its own right. Though I’ve been studying at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Shah Alam for almost three years, I hardly even scratched the city’s surface. As a matter of fact, if it were not for the familiarisation trip organised by Tourism Selangor to selected tourism attractions in Shah Alam, I would have not known how interesting the city really is.

Apparently, there is more to Shah Alam than i-City and Skytrex, which are already popular and attract visitors in droves.

WHERE TO GO IN SHAH ALAM? Selangor International Islamic Art Complex (http://www.mbsa.gov.my/en-my/infoshahalam/senikebudayaan/Pages/seni_ islam.aspx) This complex showcases the achievement of Islamic aesthetics through its three galleries. This place is not just the hub of replicating the manuscripts of the Quran but designed in accordance to Islamic principles and etiquettes demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad p.b.u.h, for instance the hexagonal design of the building representing the six pillars of Islamic faith.

The main gallery offers a three dimensional exhibition entitled Rehlah Nabawiyyah comprising 26 segments of the life of Prophet Muhammad, displayed through miniatures, models and 3D animations, including a scaleddown replica of the house belonging to Prophet Muhammad and his wife Aisyah, diorama of an iconic battle that Prophet Muhammad led, and replicas of swords owned by the early Muslim warriors. As you enter the exhibition, it is as if you’re transported back to the days of Prophet Muhammad.

The complex has a ‘secret room’ too where no cameras are allowed inside because it stores valuable handwritten Quranic manuscripts decorated in gold that came from each state in Malaysia. The complex even provides a calligraphy service for your name to be written in Jawi (Arabic alphabets). This complex closes on Mondays.

Galeri Shah Alam (https://galerishahalam.com/) Located on the banks of a lake garden and built in wooden architecture, this free-admission gallery exhibits paintings, sculptures, fabrics and Malaysian handicrafts created by various local artists including the media. The beautiful artworks that can be seen here are pleasing to the eyes, restful to the minds and soothing to the soul. This is also the place where you can buy beautiful crafts. This gallery closes on Saturdays and Sundays, except when there is an exhibition of paintings from local and foreign artists.

Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Shah (http://www.mssaas.gov.my/) One should never give this Blue Masjid a miss. As a matter of fact, it is the most visible landmark in the city that puts Shah Alam on the international tourist’ map. Claimed to be one of Malaysia’s biggest mosques in Malaysia, this building can fill up to 24,000 worshippers at any one time. The main prayer hall is split into two levels: bottom level is reserved for men while the upper is for the women. I really adore the decorative calligraphy works that adorns the outer side of the mosque’s majestic dome, besides the ubiquitous intricate geometric patterns that grace most of the mosque’s walls and doors. NonMuslims are welcome to visit the mosque and they will be given special attire to wear if they decide to enter.

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Picture taken from the 12th floor of Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Shah

From top to bottom: A scaled down replica of the house belonging to Prophet Muhammad and his wife Aisyah; Selangor International Islamic Arts Complex offers calligraphy service for visitors have their names written in Jawi (Arabic script); Kebun Komuniti Seksyen 8, Shah Alam; Perpustakaan Raja Tun Uda.

During my visit, I was taken to explore the 12th floor of one of the mosque’s minarets, which was truly a surprise because not many people know the existence of that floor. It is fascinating to view the entire mosque and surroundings from that perspective. However, due to safety reasons, the minaret is not open to the public and can only be accessed by not more than eight authorised individuals at any one time.

Kebun Komuniti, Seksyen 8 ( Jalan 8/3, Seksyen 8, Shah Alam) Though Shah Alam is modern and well developed, the city also emphasises on urban agriculture and wants its residents to venture into this industry by helping to create farms that are well equipped with facilities like water drainage systems.

The farm has been operating since 2014 and looked after by residents who are retirees and housewives, including youths. Some of the crops grown here are spinach, eggplant, tomato, and mustard. Each crop is cared by individual owner for his or her own consumption or simply to be shared with the community.

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Perpustakaan Raja Tun Uda (http://www.ppas.gov.my/) This has got to be the coolest place for children, teenagers and students in Shah Alam by far. This library encourages children and teenagers to read in a cool place instead of hanging out at the malls. Perpustakaan Raja Tun Uda (Raja Tun Uda Library), located on Jalan Kelab Golf, has brought the library experience to a whole new level. Comprising six storeys and 190,000 books, Perpustakaan Raja Tun Uda does not only provide world class library facilities, but also a gym, multipurpose hall, XD/6D Theatre and 3D Cinema that fits 8 and 30 persons respectively. The fee for the gym is RM5 for three hours, while the Mini 3D theatre and the 6D theatre can used for MYR7 per session and MYR10 per movie respectively. Perpustakaan Raja Tun Uda is a gift from His Royal Highness Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah to his subjects, costing approximately MYR70 million and built over five years. It has attracted over 500,000 visitors since it first opened in 22 July 2011. The library even holds coding class every weekend for free. Equipped with Apple products and cosy vibrant-coloured furniture, this is a must-visit attraction that captures the public’s imagination, testifying that there’s more to a library than just books.

WHERE TO STAY? Concorde Hotel Shah Alam (https://shahalam.concordehotelsresorts.com/) Concorde Hotel Shah Alam is undeniably one of the most established hotels in the capital of Selangor due to its location, efficient services, reliable facilities and excellent food and beverage outlets, making it a good choice among business and leisure travellers. Located in Section 9, Shah Alam, Concorde Hotel Shah Alam is a stone’s throw from the iconic Sultan Salahudin Mosque – some of the rooms at the hotel designed face the view of the mosque.

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Hotels & Resorts

Family-friendly Furama 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 F U R A M A B U K I T B I N TA N G H O T E L

Step into Furama Bukit Bintang Hotel, a family-friendly sanctuary nestled in the bustling heart of Kuala Lumpur.

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As families step into the lobby of Furama Bukit Bintang, they are bound to notice the area’s spaciousness, purposely minimally decorated to facilitate smooth flow of human traffic. But one exceptional point that I need to make is the fact that families with small children are welcomed with open arms, made evident by the availability of a mini play area fondly called as Furamaland, strategically located at the lobby to keep children occupied while their parents check in; of course, some of the children might require strong coaxing to tear themselves from Furamaland once their rooms are ready.

Furama Bukit Bintang Hotel’s 433 rooms receive ample natural light, exude contemporary chic, and spacious enough for children to roam around and play.

All of them boast 32-inch LCD television sets, coffee- and tea-making facilities, including complimentary use of the in-room internet broadband and Wi-Fi. The beds are also comfortable that good dreams are almost assured. To make the stay more memorable for the children, try booking into one of the themed family rooms named as the Castle, the Jungle, or the Underwater. These rooms are designed specifically with children in mind, complete with vibrant wallpapers, stuffed animals and toys, along with extra fun perks like the tent in the Jungle room, or the Pandora box console in the Castle room. Each of the bathrooms comes with a small step-stool, a toilet bowl seat cover and children t oiletries for the benefit of the little guests.

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Breakfast at the all-day dining Spices @ Furama restaurant includes extensive intercontinental buffet spread consisting of quality selection of morning staples such as breads and jams, cereals, local fares, omelettes and fresh fruits. The hotel is committed in making sure that all spaces are childrenfriendly as possible, hence children’s cutleries and menu are available at the restaurant all the time. On Fridays and Saturdays, Executive Chef Salsabil and his team offers the flaming Seafood Mania (MYR65+ per person) for dinnertime guests, featuring fresh seafood that are carefully sourced at a local market by the chef himself.

During downtime, parents may finish a book or take a few laps at the outdoor swimming pool while their young ones practice a few strokes in the designated children’s pool. But most families usually head straight to Waka Waka KL, a huge playground complete with castles, fun slides, tunnels, and even a mini zipline that elicit squeals of joy. The venue is open for walk-in customers too, but as in-house guests, they will get to enjoy special discounts. But that’s not all: the hotel also presents live music in the lobby lounge on most evenings so that parents can have a relaxing time after their children are tucked in bed. Other conveniences at the hotel include a fully-equipped gymnasium for health-conscious guests, and state-of-the-art meetings and conference facilities to accommodate its corporate clientele.

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The hotel is especially made for active guests who set to explore the city’s endless excitements too, be it dining in top-notch restaurants, hunting for amazing discounts, to even strolling quietly in a nearby forest reserve. All these are within reach by walking or a short five-minute drive via the daily complimentary shuttle service from the hotel. Those who intend to roam further, on the other hand, should take advantage of the monorail and the free Go KL city bus service that covers many attractions, including Chinatown and Central Market. A 24-hour convenient store is also located right next door to satisfy late-night cravings or lastminute packing mishaps.

All in all, Furama Bukit Bintang Hotel ticks all the right boxes for that fun, memorable and stress-free stay. Yes, there are many other hotels in the city that strive to fit the familyfriendly theme, but few do so in such a detailed-driven manner as Furama Bukit Bintang Hotel. Spend a night (or more) at this hotel and see how your children would beg for another stay soon after.

The prices for the standard rooms start roughly around MYR150 per night, which is incredibly affordable given its strategic location and facilities. For bookings, or more information on the hotel, please visit https://www.furama. com/bukitbintang.

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TURKISH AIRLINES, A Wor ld - Leading C a r r ie r Turkish Airlines began its journey back in 1933 with only five planes. Today, Turkish Airlines boasts a fleet totalling 341 aircrafts (passenger and cargo), yet still continues its journey with the same vigour.

Turkish Airlines is expected to continue climbing the ranks in service quality by maintaining its fleet age average. Having one of the Europe’s youngest fleets with an average age of 8.2 years, Turkish Airlines’ fleet comprises 224 narrow-body aircrafts, 94 wide-body, and 23 freighters. Given the large-scale aircraft orders, including aircrafts to be leased and expiring, the total number of aircrafts is expected to be around 500 by the end of 2023.

Currently flying to 311 destinations in 124 countries, Turkish Airlines is entering new markets while deepening existing markets from its homebase at Istanbul Airport, the largest airport in the world, located 35 kilometres from the city centre on the European side between Tayakadın, a neighbourhood on the Black Sea coast, and Akpınar villages. It takes around 30 minutes to reach the airport from city centre by taxi and costs around TRY100 to TRY110 one way.

Leveraging on Istanbul’s position as an international transfer hub, a centre of world airline traffic, and a city that is blessed with heritage and cultural diversity, Turkish Airlines seeks to elevate the flight experience to a whole new level and surprise passengers through its innovative services at every stage of their journey.

Turkish Airlines carried 10.4 million passengers in 2003.

This figure rose to 29.1 million, 32.6 million, 39 million and 48.3 million passengers in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. In 2014, an impressive period of growth saw this number rose to around 55 million. The

number of passengers carried in 2015 was 61.2 million, and this increased to 62.8 million by the end of 2016.

While the number of passengers carried by the flag carrier reached 68.6 million in 2017, Turkish Airlines’ total load factor registered 79.1%, while international load factor increased to 78.4%. In 2018, the number of passengers reached 75.2 million, rose 9.5% from the previous year, chalking up 82% passenger load factor.

The airline aims to carry 80 million passengers in 2019.

For more info about Turkish Airlines and to book your flight, visit https://www.turkishairlines.com/.

What to experience when flying Turkish Airlines: The ultra-spacious Turkish Airlines Lounge at Istanbul Airport, which admits Business Class and selected Economy class passengers, has an area of 5,600 metres squared and seats 765 people. Passengers are invited to refresh themselves at the lounge that houses 12 suites with 12 showers. An efficient and wellthought-out prayer room is available within the premises too. Passengers are encouraged to sit back and relax on comfortable couches while enjoying specially prepared delicious treats comprising Turkish and world cuisines. There is also cinema, console gaming experience and spacious children’s playground for neverending fun, besides meeting rooms and library.

Browse https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-my/ istanbul-airport/turkish-airlines-lounge for more info regarding Turkish Airlines Lounge.

Kuta Mandalika Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lombok

View from top: Kuta Lombok Mandalika

Mandalika: The Ultimate Paradise in the Heart of Lombok Mandalika Beach, also known as Kuta Beach due to it’s location near the Kuta Village, is one of the popular beaches in the Central Lombok Regency.

This name comes from a folklore about a legend of Princess Mandalika, who threw herself into the sea and transformed into a sea worm called Nyale.

The allures of this beach include its clear water with calm, unthreatening waves. At low tide, it will be easy to spot marine life such as algae, starfish and sea cucumbers that live on the beach. This is also where visitors may find active corals that expands seawards.

Another attraction of Mandalika Beach is its white pepperseed-like sand that fits perfectly with the background of green hills, especially during the rainy season. Naturally, this also makes it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts who love to capture stunning landscape shots of the coastline,

Scenery from the top of Merese Hill, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara

the sea and the hills. Merese Hill near the beach is one of the popular spots to achieve this.

Mandalika Beach is set to be a new beach icon in Lombok after Senggigi Beach in West Lombok. It sits within the Mandalika area, which has been recognised as the Special Economic Zone (KEK) or place of natural protection in Indonesia. The development of the Mandalika Resort is also in progress, along with an integrated tourism centre for Central Lombok equipped with world class tourism infrastructure and facilities. #WonderfulIndonesia.

Enjoying Kuta Beach at Mandalika, Lombok, Indonesia

Admiring the beautiful seascape view of Tanjung Aan Beach and Mandalika area, Lombok, Indonesia

Find the best packages and deals about Mandalika only on www.indonesia.travel, discover now!