What are the best places to do shopping in Malaysia?
When you are shopping in Malaysia, you’ll be inundated with a plethora of options ranging from electronics to fashion. It’s still fine even when all you wanted to do is window shopping. Malaysia is a happening place for luxury brands, street style shops, local goods sold in flea markets where you can find slashed prices for everything. And there is Langkawi that can pull in any shop alcoholic with duty-free shopping. Other top tourist destinations include Cameron Highlands and Kuala Lumpur. Here are some of Malaysia’s top shopping markets and what you’ll be happy buying from each of them.
1. Petaling Street:
Street shopping in Kuala Lumpur lending a Chinese touch. Specialties here at Petaling Street include bag tags, apparel and colorful artificial flowers, electronics among others.
2. Central Market in Kuala Lumpur:
Located in Kuala Lumpur, the Central Market is the best place to check handicrafts, Souvenirs, bags and fashion accessories.
3. Suria KLCC:
Another shopping mall in the Petronas Towers housing all the luxury brands including Salvatore Ferragamo, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Marc Jacobs, you can look for fashion apparel, footwear, bags, and other accessories.
4. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur:
Located at Bukit Bintang District in Kuala Lumpur, the Pavilion KL is a Mecca for shoppers where you can check out garments and related fashion accessories.
5. Berjaya Times Square:
Considered to be one of the world’s biggest shopping malls, the Berjaya Times Square Mall has everything for you to pamper and spoil yourself. Must-check out items here include candies, cosmetics, footwear, and apparel.
6. Langkawi Parade:
One of the largest malls in Langkawi, it houses fashion products, souvenirs, electronics, and even liquor all at duty-free prices.
7. Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall:
With over 100 retail outlets, the duty-free Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall gives you handicrafts, souvenirs, and apparel sourced from some of the best brands without burning a hole in your pocket.
8. The Zon Shopping Paradise:
The Zon Shopping Paradise in Langkawi is located next to the popular Underwater World. Things to check out here include perfumes and liquors at prices ten to forty percent lesser compared to other shopping malls.
9. Cameron Highlands:
Cameron Square, one of Cameron Highland’s most popular shopping destinations, is great for shopping souvenirs, mobile gadgets, and apparel.
10. Central Market:
Known as the “Jewel of Kedah”, the Central Market of Cameron Highland is known for housing quality local produce, tea, strawberries, flowers and handicraft by skilled local artisans.
Facts on Nishani Motte Trekking in Coorg
The Nishani Hills is one of the lesser-known trekking trails in Coorg in the district of Karnataka. You will instantly fall in love with the splendid views of the expansive landscape from green covered meadows on the trail. If that isn’t enough, you can spend your night dining and camp firing before hitting the pillow.
If you want to slacken your tired shoulders a bit and take a breather, you wouldn’t be looking beyond Nishani Motte in Coorg, fondly known as the “Scotland of India”. This roughly 15km moderate-trek begins from Bhagamandala Forest range (about 284km from the city of Bengaluru) and threads through the fields of paddy to the lush green coffee estate and into the wondrous Wildlife Reserve area finally making its way up towards the steep hilltop.
You can spend a day or two in the hills losing yourself in the beauty of the lush vegetation that envelops the Nishani Hills. The trekking trail lies within the Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary which is a popular spot for leopard and elephant sightings and extensive flora and fauna. The trail is an impassable pathway so it is better to have a trained guide to help you around. The path can lead you to the thickly covered Shola forests and areas of rolling meadows and verdant pasture. It will take about half a day to climb atop the hill. Once you reach the highest point, you can take a panoramic view of the entire landscape around the Nishani Hills. Take as many selfies or capture those poignant moments as much as you would like to; there’s nothing stopping you.
You can have fun around a cozy campfire once you walk down to the base camp. Even if stargazing isn’t in your bucket list, you can still spend some time looking at the marvels of creation. So, what are you waiting for? It is the best part of the year to hit this place up.
A dream ride into the hills of Ooty – The Nilgiri Mountain Railways’ (NMR) Toy Train – Part 2
Ooty had been an unchartered territory until 1820 and it had inconsistent boundaries of forest terrain. It is said that Ooty was an accidental find by the British who found the place to be stunningly beautiful and the weather to be clement throughout the year. Thus, they gave birth to a hill station that boasted eternal beauty and charm. The then district collector John Sullivan at once decided to transform it into a lovely hill station in the 1820s and founded Ooty, building two stone-houses one, Kal Bangla, which turned out to be the official residence of the Principal of the Government Arts College and was given a new makeover.
A railway line was first commenced in 1854 but it took no less than 40 years to get it done. In 1873, the train to Coimbatore underwent extension up till Mettupalayam and one has to take the ghat road before the laying of the tracks. The NMR, now the lifeline of Ooty’s economy, became world heritage in 2005. The rail-trails cover various activities including trekking along the railway tracks, exploring tunnels and viewing how the signal-systems work and other milestones.
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway makes its way through plains for the first 5 miles. In the next 12, it makes an ascend spectacularly up to 4363 ft passing through nine tunnels, lending you splendid views of the eastern slopes of Ooty. You can take non-stop selfies and photo-ops, moving to the left. A mystifying spectacle beholds you when the train hustles and whistles though Wellington, Coonoor, Lovedale and stops near the Ooty Lake.
Other attractions include the longest rail bridge across River Bhavani near the Mettupalayam station, Coonoor station (built-in stone), Fernhill station (now closed and made ‘rest’ guesthouse), track/tunnel-walk through tunnel no. 16 that is 4-km long and unique masonry or rock-cut tunnels. The toy train featured in the 1984 David Lean-directed ‘A Passage to India’ movie. At least three chief ministers of South India have had their movie songs shot here. As there’s no pantry car on the train, you need to carry your own food while traveling. There’s a tree planted at the Government Arts College compound by Sullivan which you can add to your sightseeing bucket list.
A dream ride into the hills of Ooty – “The Nilgiri Mountain Railways” (NMR) Toy Train – Part 1
If you’re looking for the ride of a lifetime, then the Nilgiri Mountain Railways (NMR) Toy Train is a must-try experience for memories to cherish on and on, whether you find yourself on the celebrated toy train or at the Fernhill station.
This almost 5-hour long travel up and down a scenic route is packed with unbridled romance, relaxation, adventure, exotic trails and turns, nature and some adrenalin booster material.
Get onboard the Nilgiri Mountain Railways’ toy train that would take you down the memory lane where the most recently included compartment is just 50 years old, and the oldest is about 80 years! The good times will cease to fade out even if the train happens to break down in the middle of the trip. And don’t grouse even if it does so as you will get some extra time to enjoy the picturesque settings including misty valleys, mountains, forests, tiny falls, and the cool weather. When the train inches up between 1069 and 7228 ft, you may get down out of it to surprise your loved one with flowers, view the big tusker staring at you from a distance, capture a lovely Hoopoe in flight, wonder about the deep gorge shrouded in darkness, or shout at the top of your voice every time the train passes through the dark tunnel. Its charm is unparalleled the train has been huffing and puffing through the valley since 1899 originally from Mettupalayam to Coonoor, and from Fernhill to Nilgiris since 1908 it’s a unique journey across 250 bridges and through 16 tunnels. Most of them have been re-constructed except the Breeks Memorial School whose heritage features have been preserved to a nicety.
Although the NMR has stood the test of times, many stops en route to Ooty have now become ghost stations. A few structures are strewn with flora and are eroding fast. They have become inaccessible due to wild animals prowling nearby. The train, however, hasn’t changed the way since Swiss inventor Riggenbach had originally engineered it. It still sports the original yellow and blue color and has bench-seats without any cushioning in an era of comfort and luxury. With the train’s coaches remaining open, there are no curtains, glass or even windows!
All about the Rotary Convention 2020 in Honolulu
Honolulu, the largest city of the U.S. state of Hawaii in the USA, will play host to the Rotary International Convention 2020 where people from all across the world will convene to connect, collaborate and celebrate for a better tomorrow. The convention begins on 30th May 2020 and ends on 12th June 2020. It is the place to be if you need to hear out world leaders, eminent personalities and philanthropists speak on several thought-provoking topics, in-depth seminars, panel discussions, workshops and more.
The House of Friendship is an interesting place where the Rotary world gathers to share tips, ideas and project successes.
The House of Friendship is a special place where the Rotary world comes together to share ideas, tips, and project successes. Here the office bearers from various nations, districts, and clubs display their projects. Rotary-licensed merchandise such as banners, shirts, and pins are available for sales. Participants can also meet rotary staff to know more on their various services and programs.
Honolulu offers you some exotic touring destinations including Diamond Head, the only royal palace in the US; Iolani Palace; Bishop Museum and Luau of Hawaii and exciting activities such as building sandcastles on Waikiki Beach; snorkeling with stunning fish; participating in Hawaii Luau musical and cultural fest; observing the traditional dance, hula, and mele, or song; tasting the different local cuisines and exploring the different adventure sports and leisure activities the island has to offer or viewing the state’s biggest collection of Hawaiian artifacts.
In addition to the touring Rotary Convention in Honolulu, Emperor Traveline is organizing a trip that will cover the important cities of Japan, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Honolulu. The trip operated from Chennai is from the 30th of May to 12th June 2020. Find your own unique experience with Emperor Traveline’s trip to Honululu and major cities in Japan.
News – Ooty (Nilgiris) To Get A New Botanical Garden On A Sprawling 80 Acres Of Land Soon
Ooty, or Udhamagamandalam, as it is popularly called in Tamil Nadu, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. This charming hill station receives maximum visitors during the summer season. The cool and salubrious climate, well complemented by the lush and fertile greeneries, in Ooty, has attracted tens and thousands of tourists on their holiday vacation every year. The botanical garden, opened in 1847, has been a major tourist destination ever since. The Tamil Nadu Horticultural Department is entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining it all around the year.
The Queen of Hill Stations will get its second botanical garden soon on a sprawling 80acres land, as per an announcement made by the Tamil Nadu Government. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation is buoyant that Ooty’s second botanical garden will see more tourist influx during the summer season.
The chief minister of Tamil Nadu, Mr E. Palaniswami, brought smiles to many when he made the announcement in accordance with Rule 110 in the Assembly House that a second botanical garden will be set up at Ooty. He followed it up with the allocation of the project cost of 10 crores for establishing the 200th year Evergreen Grassland at Ooty.
Large crowd hits the picturesque hill station of Ooty during the annual Flower show organised with great fanfare; the second botanical garden would add to the overall attraction. Another famous park in Ooty is the Rose Park, which receives over 10 lakh tourists a year, resulting in traffic congestion during the peak season and lack of adequate parking space for the vehicles. The Chief Minister also announced that a permanent parking space that can put up as many as 500 vehicles will be opened at an outlay of Rs 3 crores here.
All About The Nelliampathi Hills – Kerala’s Trekker’s Paradise
The Nelliampathi hills, located in God’s own country, Kerala is a feast to the eyes of the onlooker. Caressing the clouds, the Nelliampathi hills is marked by grandeur and splendour and lend one an awe-inspiring sight, to say the least. Located in Nenmara in Palakkad district, it is separated by 102 km from the Coimbatore Airport and 150 km from Cochin International Airport. The hill ranges stand tall at a height of 465m to 1570m and ensure you will definitely come again to explore more.
To reach Nelliampathi, the road from Nenmara takes you all the way to the Pothundy Dam. You need to drive through 10 sharp hairpin bends en route to Nelliampathi.
The Pothundy Dam has some excellent recreational facilities in boating and makes a nice outing area. As you drive your way through the dense forests and up the testing hairpin bends to Nelliampathi, there are a few viewpoints where you can stop by and witness the vast expanse of Pallakad district unfolding with its green bounty of paddy fields adding to the sylvan charm.
You can take also take a look at the Ginger farm from Nelliampathi, which lends a panoramic view of the splendid Western Ghats formation in this expanse, bringing into view, enjoining parts of the neighbouring state of Tamilnadu. If you are planning for a day out or a weekend getaway, from the big city, you don’t need to go far than travel to Nelliampathi.
There are quite a few privately owned resorts and hotels in the region, especially as you move atop the hills of Nelliampathi. You can spot bio-farms as you travel further uphill towards the Palagapandy Estate, housing a colonial bungalow, constructed during the British Raj in India, and now which has been made into a privately-owned resort. Nelliampathi, assuming that the weather is fine, is great for trekking. Travel a little further to Seetharkundu for a mesmerizing view of the valley and a stunning waterfall dropping about 110m. If you have some more time left to explore Palagapandy, then either take a car or stretch yourself a bit to trek to reach Mampara, another quiet hill station in the region.
The area enclosing the Palagapandy Estate is lush and flush with cardamom, tea and coffee plantations with the adjoining hills home to rich wildlife including elephants, leopards, Giant Squirrel, Indian Gaur, etc and a delightful haven for birdwatchers.
Five Reasons To Visit Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu this Monsoon!
Monsoon has its own charm and magic, and there is everyone reason why should take a trip to the picturesque hill station of Kodaikanal in Tamilnadu. Kodaikanal, with its over-flowing beauty, is nature’s gift to man. Therefore, if nature is your thing, then Kodaikanal lies right in the lap of nature and clouds. Many of these places go green during monsoon and look out–of–the–world. The scorching summer heat gives way to balmy and chilling breezes and cool showers that will make you enjoy the charming tourist haven: obviously, the best time to travel! Here are 5 good reasons why Kodaikanal will be a great place to hit this summer
1.The perfect weather:
Only very few hill stations in India come close to Kodaikanal in terms of the salubrious climate all around the year. The monsoon is characterised by temperature level between 10 and 18 degree C – just what you require for going around, putting your feet up or just going blah!
2.Break-taking views:
Kodaikanal dubbed the “Princess of Hill Stations”, is snugly nestled on a plateau and is enveloped by views of hair-raising hills and valleys. If you like to hug the landscapes of cloudy skies and deep valleys, then Kodaikanal is just the place for you.
3.The forgotten history:
Kodaikanal has been long one of the most popular summer resorts in the country. In the 19th century, although the plains went through tropical diseases, Kodaikanal was still a welcome gateway.
4.The Pine Forests:
The sprawling pine forests of Kodaikanal have been the backdrop for many a Kollywood dream sequence songs and TV serials. The pine forests not only add to the mojo of the place but moderate the effects of sun, wind and rain.
5.The enchanting scenes:
From the still Kodaikanal Lake to the ‘far from the noise’ Poombarai village, Kodaikanal is a traveller’s delight. The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Pillar Rocks, Coaker’s Walk and Dolphin’s Nose make Kodaikanal a must-visit hill station in Tamilnadu.
Travelling Tips to Menorca
When you are talking about the beaches in Menorca just about every tourist brochure line is actually true. They are idyllic and unspoilt with turquoise water and glistening sand. Truly a paradise on earth!
For years the island has been silently encouraging tourism. For activities such as walking, cycling or riding its gentle landscapes are ideal.
Scattered across the countryside are stone monuments dating back thousands of years. They are just perfect for a hiking holiday. For the perfectionists, a visit to the tiny Cala Binidali is a must. Its natural beauty is breathtaking. Families will enjoy Cala Binibequer on the south coast.
The best time to visit Menorca
Though the tourist season starts in May and ends in October, the islands are beautiful in early spring. You can also see the beautiful almond blossoms if you visit the place in spring. The place receives a lot of sunlight. But if you visit in late autumn be prepared for some rain.
Activities you should not miss
Menorca’s beaches are famous. You can go for swimming, kayaking, diving, sailing, or paddleboarding. On the land you can go cycling on the countryside or hiking. Also, you can just stroll around the well-designed towns of Mahón and Ciutadella at opposite ends of the island, and then relax at a harbourside table to devour a seafood platter.
Know before you go
During the winter months — from November to March — a lot of places are closed. Mid-July to mid-September is the peak season, but it will be expensive. The prices will drop either before or after these dates.
For exploring the island cycling is a good option as Menorca is largely flat.
A drink you should not miss
The Menorcan gin with lots of ice and lemonade called pomade is truly refreshing. Do try it out.
When making phone calls…
Local prefixes must be used when making phone calls throughout Spain. Wherever you are in the islands you have to dial the Balearics prefix 971.
Tourist offices
Airport: Arrivals hall; 00 34 971 157115
Ciutadella Harbour: 00 34 971 380927
Mahón: Plaça Constitució 22; 00 34 971 363790
Tourism websites: illesbalears.es; menorca.es; balearsculturaltour.es
Ciutadella: Plaça des Born (town hall); 00 34 971 484155
Currency: Euro
Emergency services: 112
Phone code: 0034
Local laws and etiquette
- Carry your passport, and show your passport when paying by credit or debit card
- You must have two reflective bibs, two warning triangles, spare headlamp bulbs, and a spare tyre if you are driving. Children below the age of 12 are allowed only in the front seat and must wear safety belts.
- People don’t share tables in eateries, including fast-food joints.
- When you are introduced to someone by friends they will greet you by kissing on both cheeks.
- Lunch and dinners usually start a little late. While lunch hours are from 2 pm, dinner starts from 9 pm (which is quite early). Dinner usually starts by 10 pm. However, you can eat any time in resorts.
Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar
Zanzibar was a land of sultans and slave traders, but today it has many attractions like white sandy beaches, dense rain forests and vibrant coral reefs. Zanzibar was known as the spice island and has incredible beauty that’ll leave you jaw-dropped. Here are the Best Attractions around Zanzibar.
Chumbe Island
The Island is blessed with several hectares of virgin forest land surrounded by extraordinarily beautiful coral reefs. It houses over 200 species of stone corals and 400 fish species, turtles & dolphins. There is also guided walking into the small forest, snorkelling and swimming.
Jozani Forest Tour
This forest is home to Zanzibar leopards. It has the Best Attraction of several medicinal plants and other trees. This tropical rainforest has breathtaking beauty on all sides. The troops of Red Colobus monkeys jumping from branch to branch are a must-see. This swamp is surrounded by rich mangroves that protect the entire area.
North Coast Tour
A tour through the north coast gives you access to the traditional dhow making. Other attractions are the turtle sanctuary and the aquarium. The Nungwi village is a great way to experience local culture and cuisine.
Prison Island
Prison Island, though a Quarantine Station once, is now a bird haven with various bird species and Aldabra Giant tortoises. The sandy beaches and the thick forest seem like paradise on earth. The sight of the dhows fishing is a not-to-miss opportunity for travellers.
Spice Tour
Zanzibar used to export spices around the world. Now they pay tribute this glorious past by arranging Tour Package for travelers to purchase spices. Several tropical fruits are also included in this tour waiting to be tasted.
Stone Town
This is the old quarter of Zanzibar and also got an intricate Indian influence from the past. Places like the Sultan’s Palace, House of Wonders, Anglican Cathedral, Slave Market, the Old Fort, Forodhani Gardens, Old Dispensary, dispensary, Darajani Market, Peace Memorial Museum and the Hamamni Persian Baths are the several buildings in Stone Town that are waiting to be explored by the hungry traveler.
Sunset Dolphin Dhow Cruises
You can experience a beautiful sunset while cruising in the dhows. Your evenings can’t get more fascinating than this as you see bottle nose dolphins swimming alongside your dhow.
The Zanzibar Land Animal Park
The ZALA Park is a fine example of sustainable development. It has the Children’s Center for Environmental Education, The Reptile Collection, The Antelope Breeding Program and Small Mammal Collection, Research Opportunities in Wildlife, Conservation, and Environmental Trends in Zanzibar, The New Nursery School in Mungoni, Aquaculture and Opportunities to Participate and to Assist ZALA.
Zanzibar Butterfly Centre
The Zanzibar Butterfly Center exhibits a live display of colorful Tanzanian butterflies. Funds are raised from tourist admissions to run the local projects.
