Category: tour

Located in Southeast Asia, just below Thailand, Malaysia is a popular destination for those who want to visit somewhere that has plenty to see and do. Boasting a cosmopolitan capital city, stunning beaches and amazing rainforests, this is a truly diverse country with lots to offer.

Here we share some of our tips for travelling around Malaysia which we hope will be helpful if you decide to travel there to discover it for yourself.

Clothes to pack for a trip to Malaysia

The weather in Malaysia is very humid with very little difference between the seasons, so with this in mind we suggest that you pack lightweight layers made from breathable material as although it will be hot outside it can be cold within air-conditioned restaurants and shopping centres.

Depending on when you travel you may also need a waterproof jacket and an umbrella as the monsoon seasons could see you getting very wet without them. On the east coast the monsoon season runs from November to mid-February and often gets so wet that going outside isn’t an option, whereas in the west it starts in April and ends in October but the rain isn’t as torrential.

If you are planning on visiting temples you will often need to dress modestly and cover your hair before you enter. For this reason, it is advised that you pack a couple of scarves, loose fitting trousers, or a sarong so you can carry these with you and easily put them on if needed.

Other items to take to Malaysia

In Malaysia they use three-pronged plugs which are the same as the ones used in the UK so it may be that you won’t need to pack a travel adapter, but don’t forget to take a good insect spray as you’ll be very grateful for this, especially if you are going to be exploring the rainforests.

The currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit so ensure that you have at least some of this currency when you arrive in case you need to pay for a taxi or food when you get there.

Although Malaysia can be more expensive than some of the other popular destinations in Southeast Asia, you will find that it is still far cheaper than prices in the UK and if you spend your money wisely you could survive on as little as £30 per day.

How to get around Malaysia

Malaysia is very affordable to travel around and there are a number of public transport options to choose from. You will be able to hop on buses to and from the major cities, and local buses will take you to most other places that you may like to go.

There will also be the opportunity to get a taxi to your destination, but as these are unmetered you should always agree a fare before getting in. You aren’t required to tip in Malaysia so you will only need to pay the exact fare that is quoted for your journey.

Although many people in Malaysia speak English you may like to learn a few key phrases before you go so that you know you will be able to get around without an issue, and if you need to get a better understanding of any documentation or documents relating to business while you are there you might find that a translation agency will come in useful.

What to eat in Malaysia

There are loads of delicious dishes to choose from in Malaysia, and whether you opt for meals in restaurants or for some authentic street food you will not be disappointed.

One of Malaysia’s most popular dishes is Nasi Lamak which is rice soaked in coconut milk before being steamed. This can be either spicy or sweet and is often served with a variety of different meat and vegetable side orders.

It is possible that you have tried Satay before but you won’t find any better than you will in Malaysia. This dish consists of a chicken, pork or beef skewer covered in peanut sauce and then grilled which creates a really tasty treat.

Laksa is a noodle dish which contains a sauce, meat and vegetables and will be different everywhere that you try it. With so many different ways to cook this meal you could eat it every day during your trip and not get bored of it.

If you find that you love Malaysian food and want to try cooking some yourself a cooking course can be a really fun way to do this and you’ll learn some skills to take home with you too!

We hope that these tips for travelling around Malaysia will help you to have an amazing time and that you manage to see and do all of the things that are on your wish list.

Travelling is the cure of mind and makes one modest. You can realize through traveling the world, what a tiny place you occupy in it. Islands have been always the best place for travel and its mystery attracted people. Pontine islands are one of them and you can definitely enjoy the beauty of nature. These islands carry the greatest mystery and history of Rome. This archipelago is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea of the west coast of Italy and named after the largest Island group, Ponza. The other islands of this archipelago are separated into two groups, in northwest reign contains Palmarola, Zannone, Gavi and to the southeast Ventotene, Santo Stefano.

A brief overview of Pontine Islands

Now here comes the mesmerizing things one can experience in the Pontine Islands. Its stunning natural scenery, crystal clear blue water, cozy beach bars will make you feel out of the world. And here comes another best part, if you are a foodie you are going to love this place. This place will offer you great seafood at affordable prices. These have become the jewels of the Pontine Islands, and turned it into the “Pearls of the Mediterranean”.

If you are planning a trip for a weekend you should definitely choose this place. You can visit all five isle in a weekend. Ponza and Ventotene are the larger two and lively and inhabited during the whole year. Only the summer brings life to Palmarola. If you are into the wilderness, Santo Stefano and Zannone these two desert isles is for you.

Its mild climate is suitable for everyone. The attractive villages and its colorful houses will make your mind cheerful. You can find here a variety of coastlines and joyful ports in pure Mediterranean style. Sailing in Pontine Islands is the best way to enjoy its beautiful nature.

Ponza

Ponza is covered nine square kilometers area and is the main isle. It is a moony shaped isle, surrounded with amazing of sea grottos, luscious beaches, and white granite rocks and pirates caves. Scuba divers still search here for the hidden treasures. You are going to bump here with famous football players and royals. You will also find here fancy boutiques which will be so alluring to resist the sea lifestyle. This place is also replete with Roman history. This is one of the best places for exploring along with enjoyment.

Ventotene

It’s the Second largest isle with narrow spaces and deep waters. It has the amazing marine reserve and car-free. Comparing to Ponza it’s very painstaking and humble. In Italy, it’s the greatest place for scuba diving. You can enjoy the last rays of the evening on the volcanic rocks from the lighthouse.  Traditional village food will fulfill your tour.

Santo Stefano

It’s the tiniest of the Pontines with a jet-black rock. Today this isle is uninhabited but it has a dark history of thousands of prisoners who were jailed and tortured here. You can feel the shivers flowing down the spine once you step on the rusty cells of the horse shaped prison fortress. You can walk uphill and from the top, the view of Mount Vesuvius mesmerizing.

Palmarola

It’s the crowning stroke with pink coral beaches, shores are full of pebble stones and sea stacks. The mystical allure of the sky-high Cathedrals which is covered in humbled palms will give you the most heavenly feelings ever.

Zannone

This is the furthest isle from Ponza and mostly abandoned by the tourists who come to short visits on the Pontines. It has the different scenario from the other isles. Green water, darker wilder and reddish rocks make the place more mysterious. Though there is nothing, not even a bar but its isolation always attracted people.

Paris, the home to Eiffel tower and city of love is a great option when it comes to camping. Also, Paris is the home to several art treasures. So, when people are on a trip to Paris, they never miss visit an art gallery. This is why, people say that camping trip in Paris is the right way for blending culture with nature. People can spend time in the art galleries and return to the camping sites for relaxing. The best part is that, some art galleries provide free pass once in a month. So, people can plan their camping trips accordingly. This way, they can get to see the most amazing masterpieces for free, while they are camping trips with their families.

When people begin their camping by arriving in Paris, the Louvre will be the first gallery that people would want to see. This is because; the Louvre is one of the most famous art galleries in the world. Also, the building is one of the magnificent structures in the world. Though, it is little confusing for people to explore the maze of annexes and rooms, it is still a delightful experience. The gallery has more than 35,000 sculpture and painting works. So, people can spend many days wandering inside the beautiful art gallery.

Enjoy your camping trip through mountaineering and fishing:

The architecture of the gallery is as equal as the art work housed inside the Louvre. It is not only the art galleries, that make Paris an ideal location for camping, but there are rivers, lakes and mountains which make Paris, a great camping destination. Whenever people think about campsites in Paris, they may imagine cold weekends. There are hundreds of campsites in Paris, and people can choose the one that best fits their ideas. When it comes to family holidays in paris, tourists can bring their own tents and caravans. And, there are plenty of options for the travelers to choose from. It is not a tough task to get information about any particular area, when people are planning for camping in Paris. This is due to the reason that there are numerous campsites in this beautiful location.

When it comes to beautiful locations in France, The Alps is one most visited locations in France. When people are camping in this region, they will be able see amazing lakes, mountain climbs and beautiful villages. They can also visit Chamonix which is one of the highest towns. Several campsites within a few miles from the city is what that makes Paris, a most prefered camping destination. Areas around Versailles as well as Disneyland have several beautiful campsites. Apart from these, people can find many other camping sites near golf courses as well as fishing lakes.

Things to plan for a camping trip:

Though camping is fun filled family activity, people should plan on a few things before they go on camping. The first thing is that, they need to be simple when it comes to snacks and foods. People should carry items that can be easily prepared. If people are traveling in large groups, it is better for them to carry sufficient food. This is because; kids would love to share snacks and food items with other kids. Also, it is better if there are more adults than kids. This will ensure the safety of kids, while families are on camping trips. Apart from these, it is a good idea to have experienced campers in the group. They can help the first timers with useful information about camping. People can also choose the campsites based on the star ratings. If you are waiting to go on camping to Paris, then you may look for information about Family holidays in paris.

Koh Samui is one Thailand’s most popular islands. It offers relaxation, exploration, spiritual and recreational opportunities for travelers. It has some or the other attraction for every type of tourist.

From water sports, marine life, sandy beaches, to historical monuments, and places of cultural importance, the island offers hundreds of tourist attractions. Snake farm will annoy you, while the Big Buddha Temple will keep you attracted for several hours.

Beaches on this island are tourist-friendly, so, you can enjoy sunbathing, while your loved ones can enjoy the sea waves.

You can reach the island by road, boat or by plane from Bangkok. But travelling on road might prove to be time-consuming. Once you reach the island, you can either rent a car, taxi, motorcycle or a bicycle. There are several companies that offer vehicles on rent to tourists at affordable rates.

Tiger Showified monk and its Aquarium, the Wat Khunaram (home to the body of Samui’s most famous monk), the Na Muang waterfalls area, Ang Thong Marine Park and the archeologically wonderful Big Buddha Temple are some of the top destinations that manage to attract hundreds of tourists every day. Let’s take a detailed look at some of the popular destinations.

Wat Plai Laem Temple

Wat Plai Laem Buddhist Temple is famous for its statue of Goddess Guanyin. The statue resembles 18 arms of this Goddess; she is famous as Goddess of compassion and mercy. The Temple is located on the island’s north eastern coast. Wat Plai Laem also offers architectural work, statues, and artwork related to Thai, Chinese culture, and Buddhism. So, the tourist destination is also visited by followers of Buddhism from around the world.

Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations

What will be your reaction if you see rocks shaped like female and male genitalia? This may sound weird and funny, but Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock foundations resemble sexual organs! These rock formations are located in the southern coast of Koh Samui Island. These natural artifacts were discovered several years ago, and they are also known as Grandma (Yai) and Grandpa (TA).

The area surrounding these rock formations is picturesque. It is near the famous Hua Thanon fishing village. The land in the surrounding area is covered with buffalo fields, and some tea plantations. White sandy beach is also visible from the location, but this beach is not good for swimming.

There is no need to worry about food while at this location, as you can easily find food stalls that serve local dishes, snacks and drinks as well.

Purple waterfalls

Purple waterfalls or Na Muang waterfalls prove that Koh Samui is not just about religious and cultural tourist attractions. If you wish to escape from heat for few hours while on the island, you should definitely visit this destination. Na Muang waterfalls are also popularly known as purple waterfalls due to the color of rocks surrounding these waterfalls that are just around 12 kilometers from Nathon Bay.

The spot is popular among tourists. You can visit this destination with your family members, kids would definitely enjoy swimming and relaxing in the clean water.

You can also enjoy elephant ride and some adventure sports in the nearby jungle areas or the Na Muang Safari Park.

Tour operators ask visitors to wear sturdy shoes while visiting this destination, as the road leading to the waterfalls is sleeper and steep. If you wish to walk all the way to the falls, you should be ready to walk considerable number of kilometers. It is advisable to hire a guide, or keep maps for the location with you.

Waterfalls are situated in the southern part of Koh Samui, near Hua Thanon and Nathon mountains.

There is no need to worry about food, as you will find food stalls while on the way for waterfalls.

Food and accommodation on the island

Koh Samui is home to several restaurants, snack centers, pubs, bars, and cafes. You can easily find local and international dishes with ample options for veg and non-veg lovers.

As far as accommodation is concerned, there are many options. You can find both, simple hotel rooms, and expensive as well as affordable world class ocean view luxury villas Samui.

Koh Samui Island is considered one of Thailand’s most preferred tourist destinations. The island is home to several Temples that reflect various aspects of great Buddhist culture. The island also offers great collection of natural tourist attractions like waterfalls, hilly areas, jungles, marine park, sandy beaches, and more.

Visit popular attractions

Some of the main tourist attractions on this island are- Big Buddha Temple, Wat Khunaram Mummified Monk site, the Na Muang Waterfall area, the Ang Thong Marine Park, Hin Ta & Hin Yai rocks site, and the Samui snake park.

Explore the jungles

Koh Samui Island is home to many unexplored jungles. You can opt for elephant ride through the jungle areas or hire safari jeep. Several acres of coconut plantations, forests with rare bird species, picturesque rock formations, spectacular waterfalls, and ancient monuments are scattered in various parts of the island. These can be best explored by hiring safari jeep to travel. If you are looking for thrilling experience, you can also think about hiring motor cycle or bicycle to travel across various parts of the island.

Buy a souvenir

As mentioned earlier, the island has something for everyone. There are many shopping centers and evening markets on the island. Let’s take a look at some of the best ones.

• Lifestyle shopping complex

Chaweng based Lifestyle shopping complex is slowly gaining popularity as the island’s best shopping center. It is located near the Chaweng’s beach road. The shopping complex also attracts eyeballs due to its architectural features. The dining cum shopping mall is spread across 90,000sqm area, on three floors.

Not just this, the shopping center also offers garden area with restaurants, shops and a beautiful playground for kids.

• Nathon & Lamai based Samui Hot Club

If you do not feel satisfied after visiting Lifestyle shopping complex, you should visit the Samui Hot Club. The shopping area is best for shoppers who wish to buy beachwear, and T-shirts. There are several stalls inside this big hall. The only drawback about this shopping center is that they do not allow customers to try wearing items before purchasing. Goods once sold won’t be exchanged or refunded.

The shopping center’s policies are very strict, but the overall offers and quality of goods sold under this roof are definitely something worth compromising for.

• Street markets in Chaweng area

Chaweng is not just popular for its beach on Samui Island, but it is famous for its street markets as well. These markets are full of roadside food and clothing shops. So, you can eat snacks, drink cocktail, and continue shopping at the same time. You can buy good quality clothes, art material, watches, sunglasses, bags, cosmetic material and wooden souvenirs from this market.

Several stalls also sell T-shirts with copied designs from big brands. So, don’t feel surprised if you find Ralph Laurent shirts for just few cents.

• Market at Fisherman’s village

Every Friday, the Fisherman village based Bophut area’s main street attracts hundreds of locals and tourists due to its street market. Every Friday, the market is held from 5PM to 10 PM local time.

Fisherman’s market is not just about fish. You can find cocktail stalls, seafood stalls, handicraft material, wooden souvenir items, and clothing as well.

Live like a king

Koh Samui is home to some very good restaurants, pubs, cafes, and tourist-friendly budget hotels. Most importantly, there are many sea facing villas as well. If you are looking for luxury villas Samui, try Samui Villa Retreat. The group offers Villas with garden and pool view, panoramic sea view, villas beside the beach, and beachfront villas.

Their sea facing villas are truly world class, and they also offer some of the best facilities like personal concierge service, free airport pick-up or drop service, continental breakfast, and more. All the villas are inspected every day to make sure that they match certain standards.

Executives at the concierge desk can assist you with maps, and information about the island and various tourist destinations. They can also take care of your transportation needs.

Samui Villa Retreat offers villas that are close to night-clubs, pubs, discos, and bars. This means you can enjoy great night life, and then enjoy some peaceful time at the villa.