Below the majestic calm of Mexico’s blue waters, tourists can find one of the country’s most famed treasures: its marine life. Snorkeling is one of the easiest and most cost-efficient ways to enjoy some of Mexico’s hidden beauty. An activity fit for most ages, snorkeling provides even the novice water explorer a chance to enjoy the sites below the ocean’s surface.
Whether exploring the east or west coast, Mexico boasts an array of superb snorkeling locations across all of its tourist hot spots. The Caribbean coast is known for its vibrant, ultramarine waters and white sand beaches that combine to create clear views of the vibrant coral reefs and brightly colored tropical fish. The Pacific coast offers a distinctly different experience, catering to the adventure seekers who want to get close to the ocean’s more elusive creatures.
Snorkeling in Mexico’s Caribbean Coast
Situated several miles off Mexico’s mainland, Cozumel is consistently named among the top 10 best snorkeling spots in the world by travel experts. The clear waters and many reef walls surrounding the island’s coasts offer an ideal spot to spy colorful species including coral, angelfish and parrot fish. The Santa Rosa Wall and the family-friendly Chakanaab Park on the west coast of the island are two popular snorkeling spots to visit in Cozumel.
Heading back toward the mainland, the Great Mayan Reef bridges the divide between Cozumel and Cancun and is known as one of the best spots to snorkel in Mexico. The coral reef is the largest in the Western Hemisphere, spanning a nearly 600-mile area from Mexico to Honduras, and is second-largest coral reef in the world behind the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Also known as the Mesoamerican Reef, the area is home to over 70 species of coral, 500 species of fish, and has one of the world’s largest populations of manatees. Akumal and Playa del Carmen have several eco parks and other snorkeling locations that are frequented by tourists.
For a more unique snorkeling experience, ocean lovers can take a quick boat ride from Cancun to the Isla Mujeres. The calm surf and good visibility create the perfect locale for a leisurely family snorkeling trip, and friendly ocean fixtures including dolphins often come out to play at Banderas Reef and Garrafon Natural Reef Park.
Snorkeling in Mexico’s Pacific Coast
Located on Mexico’s southwest coast, the bay in Zihuatanejo is a popular destination for the flipper-donning set. Among the more famous meccas: Playa Las Gatas – which translates into English as “Cats Beach” – was actually named for a small species of shark that once inhabited its waters. Today, tourists flock to this snorkeling locale to catch glimpses of rare wildlife and mythical sea urchins, including seahorses and guitarfish.
Further up the coast, the Bahia de Banderas encapsulates an oft-visited haven for snorkelers, including the latitudinally ideal beaches of Puerto Vallarta that provide year-round tropical temperatures and limited precipitation. The calm waters attract varied ocean life including manta rays, starfish and puffer fish. Puerto Vallarta is also home to many natural coves that offer more unique snorkeling opportunities like swimming with sea lions at Las Caletas.
Mexico’s west coast is also home to the famous Sea of Cortes, which divides the skinny Baja California Peninsula and the country’s larger mainland. This massive body of water is a go-to destination for the more experienced divers and snorkelers, as its murkier waters and collection of larger mammals lure thrill seekers. Hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and several large species of octopus and jellyfish are known to inhabit different pockets of the Sea of Cortes, including La Paz.
No matter which coast snorkel enthusiasts choose, an affordable underwater adventure awaits as Mexico’s vast waters offer plenty of excitement from the Caribbean coral reefs to the playful Pacific inlets.
Erin Keaveney writes articles about travel in Mexico for the Marriott Resorts.
Mexican flavor of architecture, food and living has impressed people all over the world. Mexican culture and artifacts are famous around the globe and hence there is no better way to enjoy and become familiar with the Mexican sprit than touring the country itself. Mexico as a tourist spot offers wide range of geographical locations and country sites for a traveler to choose. The country touches the shores of ocean at many places and has high-rise mountains at other end. The region presents an excellent opportunity for water sports and deep-sea excursions and mountaineering.
With fabulous hotels and exotic views to offer Mexico has also developed into a favorite honeymoon destination. Recently wedded couples find numerous getaways in this country. The cities here present a promising adventurous vacation. Among the all time favorite destination is Acapulco a place that has attracted tourists since earlier times because of its rocking nightlife and beautiful beaches. Apart from regular water sports cliff diving is an added exclusive special attraction of the place. Mainly well-trained professionals perform this art after the sun goes down and it presents a spectacular view for the tourists. With hotels having private and semi-private swimming pools to offer it has become a favorite for couples on vacation.
Another very popular spot for tourists is the Yucatan Peninsula, which is famous for its ancient ruins of Mexican architecture and traditions. The geographical location of Yucatan peninsula renders it a perfect visiting area. Although the weather at this place in inviting all year round still the tourist attraction is maximum from October to June.
Mexico is a paradise for water game lovers, sea divers, trekkers and other such activists. Apart from offering boating, rafting and cruise options for tourists every popular travel spots also have dedicated shopping centers. The shops offer anything from Mexican folk art, handicrafts depicting Mexican culture, jewellery, pottery, shirts and many other such options to take back home as a souvenir from Mexico.
The prime religion in Mexico is mainly Catholics and this thought is well expressed by the spread of well-constructed cathedrals around the town. These cathedrals are masterpieces of architecture and exhibit a great deal about the rich cultural history of the place. While on the way through the city lanes the Christian archeological extracts are visible throughout the journey. Vacationing in Mexico with stay and sightseeing the trip may sometimes prove to be costlier than expected. Hence its best advised to preplan the visit and opt for an all included packaged journey tour in the country. The travel agents best guide tourists through most favorite hot spots among travelers and options that fit best within the budget.
Night safari through the forests of the region is an added attraction. A safari on four wheeler jeeps through the mountains can well be an experience of lifetime. The best ways for touring the country is having a base destination at one place and then go touring other neighboring spots on short trips. Biking is another favorite activity in the region cycling through Mexico is so popular that anyone visiting this country can hardly avoid returning back without enjoying a bike-ride.
When you are planning a vacation to Mexico, there are several things you need to remember in order to have a pleasant stay. The first is to have an examination before going on your trip by your doctor. Being healthy when traveling to another country is important, especially if you plan on hiking, or engaging in other physical activities.
The second item to consider is filling all prescriptions before traveling so you will be able to take your medication while visiting Mexico. Because you now need a passport to travel into Mexico, make sure you have all the paperwork you will need. You may have to fill out additional paperwork once you arrive, so have all of your ID handy so you can get by any check points and other areas quickly.
Because there are so many places to travel to once you arrive in Mexico, it is no secret that you should have plenty of maps or a GPS device that can tell you where to go. There are many small towns in Mexico that you will drive through when on your way to a resort or national park. Practice caution when driving through strange towns and always make sure you have travel insurance in case you are in need of medical attention. Drinking the water while traveling may not be the best idea because your body may not be used to it.
Learning to speak Spanish is one of the best ways to have a good time while traveling through Mexico. Many travelers are of the opinion that you will be able to see more and enjoy your trip when you speak the language. There are many courses you can take when you want to learn the language quickly. Understanding what people are saying when you ask for directions will help you have a better time when trying to get to your destination.
If you want to learn Spanish in a few months, you can also buy tapes and books so you can learn key phrases when traveling. Depending on which region you are traveling to, you will hear many dialects of Spanish being spoken. While some of the words will be different, most of them will retain the same meaning. Make sure you learn phrases that are commonly used in the region you are traveling to so you can speak to the locals and understand what they are saying to you.
Many people who travel to Mexico stay in resorts because this is where they will be able to find easy access to beaches, food, and other provisions. While resorts can be very nice, if you want to see the country of Mexico, you will need to travel outside the resort areas. You will be surprised by how diverse the area is and how different it is from the resorts. Depending on where you want to go, there are many national parks, monuments, and other interesting sites to see.
When it comes to holidays and festivities, no other place in the world has more festive ones then the country of Mexico. Mexico is located right underneath the United States and right above Central America, fitting perfect in between the two countries. Mexico has received a lot of negative criticism due to some of the crimes that take place there, and while that is a bit discouraging to someone wanting to take a vacation to Mexico, the majority of Mexico is quaint little cities that are made up of great hospitality and sheer aesthetic beauty.
The entire country of Mexico celebrates quite a few different major holidays; each of these major holidays falling under three distinct categories. Holidays in Mexico are categorized either as statutory holidays, civic holidays or festivities. Statutory holidays are celebrated around the entire country while at the same time, any employee or student is allowed to take day off and still receive their regular pay. Civic holidays are exactly the same as statutory holidays with the exception that employees are not necessarily entitled to get a free day off from work. Any holiday that usually is widely celebrated around the world such as Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day and many others, will fall under the classification of festivity.
When somebody says that Mexico celebrates a lot of holidays, this would be considered very much an understatement. Mexico celebrates so many different holidays throughout the year, each with its own significant meaning. Some of the more popular statutory holidays would be Ano Nuevo; this is the first day of the New Year. Then you have Dia de Indepencia, which is the celebration of when the Independence War first started. One of the most heard of events in Mexico that is also celebrated in other countries by those of Mexican descent, is Cinco de Mayo; which would fall under the civic holiday category. Then you have festivities such as All Souls Day, a celebration honoring all those who have passed away.
The holidays listed above are just a few of the very many celebrated all throughout Mexico. There is a celebration for so many different events, leaving something for everybody. Anybody knows that where there is a celebration, there is great food being cooked, nifty little items and toys being sold and passed out and just an all around gathering of good people. There are holidays that celebrate the first day of the New Year, children, adults and so many other different important aspects of Mexican culture.
Mexico is probably hiding one of the best vacations or family trips that you have ever been on; it may just be time to take advantage of that fact. Another great thing about Mexico aside from all the different holiday celebrations is all of the other aspects that Mexico has to offer. First of all, there are plenty of high quality hotels and accommodations so that you and your family have a nice relaxing stay there, but then there are many different attractions to suit every member of your family; including some pretty fabulous beach line. Mexico is teeming with all sorts of different things to do, so take a trip to this fabulous county.
For more information Mexico Holidays packages please visit
Here is an idea for travelers taking the train to Thailand from Kuala Lumper.
I used this travel plan and saved about $500 on my normal fare.
You do need to be a little flexible with your travel dates, and be prepared for a little waiting at times.
My trip started in Adelaide Australia. Having such a limited choice of carriers here encouraged me to do some pc work.
OK, first I went to the Airasia site and looked up return flights from the Gold Coast to Kuala lumpur.
I was looking at going around November time and the price was around $600 to $700 return.
So I started checking day before and day after, you know how it works.
Anyway to my amazement I found a return fare for $220, yes $220 return.
First thing I did was hit the button, got out my stretched credit card and booked and paid for it.
This was in July, so I thought plenty of time to recoup the money.
My normal fare to get to Thailand from Adelaide on Singapore Airways is around $1200 return, sometimes $1000.
Next thing was to book a return from Adelaide to Gold Coast.
Being a little governed now by the Airasia flight, I managed to find a flight for $200 return on Jetstar.
Ridiculous I know, Adelaide to Gold Coast = 2 hours = $200 and Gold Coast to KL = 8 hours = $220,
takes a bit of understanding I know.
Anyway, my flight to KL was leaving at 09.30 which meant I had to be in the Gold Coast the day before.
As a traveler, I didn’t mind having to sleep on the airport, I have done it before as I am sure many of you have.
What I did not realize was that the Gold Coast airport is NOT 24 hours, oop’s hahaha.
The backpackers just a mile down the road was full, so I found a bench just outside the main building and got a few hours sleep there.
The good thing was that the airport actually opens at 04.00, so it was not so bad.
So to carry on with my journey, I then flew on to KL with no problems.
Once on the ground I went straight through immigration and on to a waiting Airasia shuttle bus,
which I had prepaid for to the KL sentral station.
I then booked a 2nd class sleeper which would take me to Hat Yai in Southern Thailand and on all the way to Bangkok if I wanted.
I was going to Hat Yai as I have a good friend there that I always visit on my trips.
Cost of this train was $18. Which also served as a nights accommodation.
So doing the figures, I got into Thailand for well under $500.
Now that is a good deal from Adelaide of course.
Now the train journey was great as usual, takes about 12 to 14 hours to get to Hat Yai.
About an hour and a half before getting to Hat Yai you will reach the border crossing.
This is really easy to complete, the train stops at the border station and you all get off.
Some travelers take their belongings some don’t, but remember it is a border crossing
and they may want to look through your cases or bags.
Anyway once all people are off the train it leaves the station to uncouple the Malaysian carriages
which go back to KL and the then the train comes back with just the Thailand carriages on it.
Inside the station you will be directed where to go to sign out of Malaysia and then go to the next section to sign in to Thailand.
Make sure you check your visa before leaving the counter. TAKE NOTE that entering Thailand overland will only give you a 14 day visa, so if your planning to spend more time then you will need to do a visa run or pay a visit to the Thai consulate.
I enjoyed traveling this way and will certainly do it again.
Hi my name is Jim, I have a website designed to help travelers with honest and real advice and tips for traveling Thailand cheap.
You will find tips on travel, accommodation, dining, entertainment, beaches, where to go, how to get there. Also on my site you can submit your own travel story.
We now have an online shop selling Thailand artifacts.
The Perhentian Islands are made up of two islands in all – Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, Perhentian Besar being the larger. They are both very attractive and equal in natural beauty. They both have their own special features and gifts. When it comes to tropical beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving Malaysia as a whole is among the best.
Both of the Perhentian Islands offer up features such as lush green tropical rainforests, palm lined beaches, and coral reefs which generally are only seen on television or in glossy travel brochures. When you visit and see for yourself its like a dream world come true.
You need to take a boat to reach to the islands from the mainland. This is the start of the adventure. The choice is all yours, you can jump on the slower boat which takes about an hour and a half to reach the islands or you can take the faster sailing boat which is only a 30 minute journey. The islands are 20 miles away from the mainland.
Diving is one of the most common activities to be found on the island – both snorkeling and scuba. People come here purely and simply for the diving experience – its just so wonderful. There are a few diving schools based on the islands too so if you want to begin learning then now is your chance, and a chance not to miss either!
The rainforests here are primary or “virgin” if you like. If you are to go on a jungle hike then you will be sure to see some of the wildlife – monitor lizards, long tailed macaque monkeys, and flying foxes to name but a few.
To enjoy a perfect experience of swimming and sun bathing, the beaches of these two islands are excellent and quite exquisite. The diving is breath taking as the coral reefs are healthy, abundant and exuberant.
Malaysian islands of beauty and gun cabinets and safes tend not to go hand in hand but nevertheless, please visit my gun cabinets for sale website. There are many cabinets to choose from, not least the beautiful wood gun cabinets range.
Before you sit down to fill out an application for a Malaysian Visa, you should check the Malaysian Immigration website. Very few foreign visitors need a visa to visit Malaysia. Citizens of the United States, Switzerland and the Netherlands, for example, do not need a visa for Malaysia.
Documentation: If you find out that your country is one of the few whose citizens must have a visa to visit Malaysia, you will need to have the required documentation. You need to provide two photocopies of every document requested. A valid passport, round-trip airline tickets, bank statements, travelers’ checks and two passport-sized photographs will be required. To see if there are any other documents you need, can check the Department of Immigration, Malaysia website at http://www.imi.gov.my/ .
Visas: The country of Malaysia has two types of visas. A “Visa without References” is for anyone who visits the country to sightsee or on vacation. “Visa’s with References” are for individuals visiting relatives, attending school, involved in research, or who are visiting Malaysia for employment. This type of visa requires a letter of approval from the Malaysian High Commission and additional documentation such as a letter from your employer, student enrollment letter and verification that tuition has been paid.
Application: Visa application forms are available from all Malaysian Embassy’s and consulates. An online application form is also available. Check the immigration website for the application form. If you are filling out the application by hand it is recommended that you print to avoid any delays in processing.
Visa Extensions: Most Malaysian visas are valid for 3 months. You will need to make Request for extensions to the Immigration department. Visitors who have a “visa without reference” usually qualify for a two-month extension. “Visa’s with references” must verify that they are ill or have been in an accident, that a war has broken out in their country of origin, and that they can afford to return home.
Fees: The fee for a Malaysian visa is about $3 American dollars. However, the charge for citizens of India must pay twice that amount. These fees are not refundable. It is often possible to have your visa approved the same day.
Just remember, you may not need a visa to visit Malaysia, and that may make Malaysia the perfect exotic vacation destination.
C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Vacation Things to Do and How to Get a Passport
Malaysia Vacations,Malaysia Vacation,Family Vacations in Malaysia … – Travel to Malaysia and spend exotic holidays here. Fascinating Malaysia beckons all – especially those who are traveling with their families and young children. Malaysia has a string of thrilling theme parks and fun resorts that will transport one into a world of fantasy, excitement and adventure.
Are you thinking of traveling to a unique location in Asia? Apart from the obvious regions of Thailand and Singapore, you can also plan a trip to Malaysia. The culture is as diverse as any other Asian city and the holiday activities are plentiful. Malaysia has a total of thirteen states that come under three federal territories. There are two major regions comprising of East and West Malaysia. The East Malaysia is connected to the Brunei and Indonesia whereas the West Malaysia portion is the main Malaysia Peninsular.
As a holiday destination, Malaysia has a lot to offer its visitors. Numerous travel delights and exotic destinations make this city a lovely place to vacation in. Below is some needful information about this exotic tourist destination.
Although the typical trading hours in Malaysia are from ten in the morning to ten at night, the tourists can enjoy shopping and dining all day and all night in this city. There are proper car rentals available and an International Driving Permit can be easily acquired. The least driving age is 23 and the driving is left sided. The drivers must follow the basic road rules which include wearing a seat belt at all times and accounting for maximum speed limits which is 110 km/hr for expressways and 60 km/hr for cities and towns.
If you carry electrical appliances like blow dryers and straightening irons with yourself, you must check to see if the voltage allowance is of 220-240 volts, AC 50 Hz.
The three pin power plugs used in this city are square shaped and your electrical device must accept the voltage otherwise the appliances might need a plug adapter and a voltage converter.
This multi ethnic and multi cultural society is also multi lingual! Malaysia is an amazing mix of Malays, Chinese and Indian people. There is a lot of respect for each other’s religions since the Muslim Malays, Chinese Buddhists and Indian Hindus have been peacefully living together for ages.
The island life and adventures as well as the cultural heritage of the city provide an exciting mix of tourist attractions. This mythical culture is a lovely concoction of entertaining dance forms and lively and energetic festivities. This city in the heart of Asia is a perfect retreat for people who wish to experience Asian culture first hand and enjoy some of the fantastic night outs they have ever witnessed.
Visit Malaysia 2010 Tour Packages – In the heart of Asia lies a land of many cultures, wonders and attractions. It’s a bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic from Sabah and Sarawak living together in peace and harmony. It is also a land of fascinating extremes, where towering skyscrapers look down upon primitive longhouses.
Holidays in Malaysia offer a myriad or things to do and see; strange creatures dwell amongst the exotic plants of the jungles of Malaysia, and off the idyllic coastline there’s another kind of exotic garden to explore: long, colourful ribbons of coral reef are amongst the best places to go in Malaysia. There are fantastic bays like Emerald Bay; more than just a tropical island, this region has impressive mountains and remote communities living unique cultural lives. But it’s also a tropical island holiday, and so holidays in Malaysia allow for both exploration and languor.
Malaysia’s humming and buzzing capital, Kuala Lumpur, and the jungles and reef ringed islands of Malaysian Borneo are so vastly different that holidays in Malaysia are guaranteed contrast. Most international flights arrive in Kuala Lumpur, so even if you’re steering clear of the city life and heading into nature you still get to be surprised by the comparison. The main airport of the Sabah and Sarawak regions is at Kota Kinabalu, so most visitors start their exploration Malaysian holiday there.
Day One: Assuming some of the first day of your holiday in Malaysia will be taken up with setting in and poking around your hotel, take an afternoon/ evening stroll into Kota Kinabalu and look around the markets and restaurants and wander along to the ferry port. This is a port town rather than a beach town so leave your beach towel at the hotel.
Day Two: Bring your towel on the second day of your holiday in Malaysia and retrace your steps into town and the ferry port where you can get a ferry out to the islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. Visitors can stay overnight on the larger islands but Pulau Sapi, or Cow Island, one of the smallest of the five, is the quietest, and ideal for a day trip to swim, snorkel, hike though the rainforest, have your toes nibbled by tiny fish and your lunch stolen by an exotic monkey or giant monitor lizard.
Day Three: Trekkers who don’t mind a bit of uphill work can conquer Mt. Kinabalu in two days – it’s the 20th tallest in the world and worth factoring into your holiday in Malaysia – but one day is enough to sample the pleasures of the Mt. Kinabalu National Park at its base, including the orchid gardens, Poring Hot Springs, and hopefully one of the park’s biological pleasures — a fleshy, flash smelling rafflesia plant, on which grow the world’s largest flowers. Some resorts will be able to help you arrange transport up to the mountain and the jungles that spread all over it, and the easiest way to go is as part of a group.
Day Three: Fly to Sandakan. While Kota Kinabalu has the scenery, Sandakan has the wildlife, most fascinatingly the Orang utans at Sepilok and the turtles of Turtle Island Park, and one of the main reasons people want to take their holidays in Malaysia.
Day Four: The marine sanctuary of Turtle Island is an overnight stay. They can only accommodate very small groups, but in the evening you’re there to welcome the mother turtles on to the beach as they lay their eggs, then able to release some of the babies from a clutch laid 60 days earlier. The accommodation is pretty basic, the food isn’t breathtaking, but getting a kiss a baby turtle on its shell just after it’s dug its way out of its nest before it scuttles down the beach to the sea is something indescribable and well worth planning a holiday in Malaysia around.
Day Five: The amazing and ancient turtles aren’t the most famous local inhabitants of this region: the Old Men of Borneo, as the locals call them, are. Living under difficult conditions, the orang utan’s habitat is shrinking, and as man encroaches we need to give them a little help. They get that at Sepilok, a conservation centre where orang utans are brought to be rehabilitated before being released into the wild. Visitors to the park get as close to them as they’re able to anywhere, when these furry jungle men come in for a feed and put on impromptu shows on the ropes and platforms around the feeding platforms. Animal lovers take note – it’s possible to volunteer at Sepilok, but you need to commit quite a bit of time and organise it well in advance.
Day Six & Seven: Divers won’t want to travel to this region without diving off Sipidan Island, which has some of the world’s best dive sites, but explorers may be more interested in visiting the Mulu, Gomantong or Niah Caves, renowned karst structures, Kuching for a bit of the lively culture of the place and the orchid garden, or for a unique cultural experience, a traditional longhouse community, so these last days of your holiday in Malaysia should be used up according to personal interest.
Malaysia Tours & Daytrips – Daytrips and Tour Packages in Malaysia – Langkawi is known to many as the mystical isle because of the magical stories associated with it. Take a trip in a limousine to visit some of its attractions including Mahsuri’s Tomb, the pristine white beaches of Tanjung Rhu beach or soak in the sun on the almost-opaque sands of Pantai Pasir Hitam’. Rooms : 1 2 3 4 5 Adults : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Children : 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Hotel Quick Finder Area Loading.
Tasik Bera and Tasik Chini Expedition – VirtualMalaysia.Com – The … – This event involves researchers, kayak enthusiasts and RAMSA members worldwide. This 3 days expedition through the two largest lakes in the country. This event will end with a Kayaking competition. …
Malaysia is a destination that plays host to a variety of ethnicities, cultures and traditions. This makes Malaysia the perfect setting for a luxury holiday. With its steamy equatorial climate and exotic wildlife it is no wonder Malaysia has been a key destination for travellers for the last 5,000 years – since the ancestors of the Orang Asli, the indigenous peoples of Peninsular Malaysia, first settled there.
Malaysia’s rich local culture is a reflection of its tempestuous past. The first Muslim empire in Malaya, based on the trading port of Malacca, was formed under the rule of King Parameswara in the 15th century. Then in the 16th century the Portuguese moved in and captured Malacca. Sultan Mahmud, the ruler of Malacca, was unable to recapture it – so his successors made an alliance with the Dutch to expel the Portuguese in 1641.
The British acquired Melaka from the Dutch in 1824, although it wasn’t until September 1963 that Malaya, Sarawak, Sabah, and Singapore united to form Malaysia. It was only then that this country acquired the name that so many know and love.
In terms of religious tradition, evidence of a Hindu-Buddhist period in Malaysian history can still be found today in the temple sites of the Bujang Valley and Merbok Estuary in Kedah. In the 13th century the spread of Islam brought the Hindu-Buddhist era to an end. Islam was established as the religion of Malaysia and still is today.
Home to a wealth of hotels, museums, entertainment centres, and famous landmarks, Kuala Lumpur is a stunning first stop on any itinerary, with its unique blend of cosmopolitan sophistication juxtaposed with olde-worlde charm. First stop – the Central Market, situated at the edge of Chinatown. The Central Market is home to some of the city’s best shopping. The Central Market is also a treasure trove of local arts and crafts.
If absorbing local culture is of interest to you, the riverside amphitheatre located outside the market features regular performances, demonstrations and batik painting. Free cultural performances such as Malay Traditional Theatre, Shadow Play, Chinese Opera, and Indian Traditional Theatre are held on weekends. The Central Market is open daily from 10am to 10pm.
The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is another must-see for the wayward traveller. Dating back to 1873 and fronted by a massive gate tower, this temple is Kuala Lumpur’s main Hindu temple. It houses a large silver chariot that is taken out and paraded to the Batu Caves during the Thaipusam festival at the beginning of each year.
To cap off your luxury holiday Pangkor Laut is the ‘piece de resistance’. Pangkor Laut is a privately owned island located off the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia and home to the eponymous 5 star luxury resort. This resort is pampering personified – offering guests luxury accommodation in an atmosphere of natural beauty to engender an environment of extreme relaxation.
After Kuala Lumpur, Penang is another popular destination. Affectionately known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient,’ Penang is situated 370 km from Kuala Lumpur on Malaysia’s north-western coast. Penang used to be the oldest British settlement in Malaysia but today it is one of Malaysia’s biggest tourist attractions.
Penang’s rich history is personified by Georgetown, the biggest city on the island, with its places of worship, city communities, bazaars, guilds, retail shops and trishaw peddlers. Georgetown is the result of a history of peaceful religious co-existence and exchange among the followers of the faiths of Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, as well as the Chinese religions of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism.
While in Penang, be sure to include a trip to the Snake Temple, a traditional temple swarming with poisonous pit vipers. It is thought these poisonous snakes are made drowsy by the smoke of the burning incense. The 33m long reclining Buddha is the main attraction in Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple and is believed to be the 3rd largest in the world.
Selangor is another must-see item on the travel checklist. Nicknamed the ‘Industrial Hub of the Nation’ it is the country’s premier state due to its natural resources, well-developed communications networks, industrial estates and skilled workforce. Selangor’s state capital, Shah Alam, is the home of modern architecture while Klang serves as a reminder of the old sultanate.
For water-sports enthusiasts, Langkawi is paradise. Lying off the north-western coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is the first of an archipelago of 99 islands. Langkawi is home to the world’s most pristine rainforests, limestone formations, stunning underwater caves and white sandy beaches washed by jewelled waters that team with a multitude of marine life – perfect for diving and snorkelling.
Plan your own luxury holiday to the jewel of Southeast Asia’s exquisite crown.
Malaysia is a destination that plays host to a variety of ethnicities, cultures and traditions. This makes Malaysia the perfect setting for a luxury holiday. With its steamy equatorial climate and exotic wildlife it is no wonder Malaysia has been a key destination for travellers for the last 5,000 years – since the ancestors of the Orang Asli, the indigenous peoples of Peninsular Malaysia, first settled there.
Malaysia’s rich local culture is a reflection of its tempestuous past. The first Muslim empire in Malaya, based on the trading port of Malacca, was formed under the rule of King Parameswara in the 15th century. Then in the 16th century the Portuguese moved in and captured Malacca. Sultan Mahmud, the ruler of Malacca, was unable to recapture it – so his successors made an alliance with the Dutch to expel the Portuguese in 1641.
The British acquired Melaka from the Dutch in 1824, although it wasn’t until September 1963 that Malaya, Sarawak, Sabah, and Singapore united to form Malaysia. It was only then that this country acquired the name that so many know and love.
In terms of religious tradition, evidence of a Hindu-Buddhist period in Malaysian history can still be found today in the temple sites of the Bujang Valley and Merbok Estuary in Kedah. In the 13th century the spread of Islam brought the Hindu-Buddhist era to an end. Islam was established as the religion of Malaysia and still is today.
Home to a wealth of hotels, museums, entertainment centres, and famous landmarks, Kuala Lumpur is a stunning first stop on any itinerary, with its unique blend of cosmopolitan sophistication juxtaposed with olde-worlde charm. First stop – the Central Market, situated at the edge of Chinatown. The Central Market is home to some of the city’s best shopping. The Central Market is also a treasure trove of local arts and crafts.
If absorbing local culture is of interest to you, the riverside amphitheatre located outside the market features regular performances, demonstrations and batik painting. Free cultural performances such as Malay Traditional Theatre, Shadow Play, Chinese Opera, and Indian Traditional Theatre are held on weekends. The Central Market is open daily from 10am to 10pm.
The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is another must-see for the wayward traveller. Dating back to 1873 and fronted by a massive gate tower, this temple is Kuala Lumpur’s main Hindu temple. It houses a large silver chariot that is taken out and paraded to the Batu Caves during the Thaipusam festival at the beginning of each year.
To cap off your luxury holiday Pangkor Laut is the ‘piece de resistance’. Pangkor Laut is a privately owned island located off the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia and home to the eponymous 5 star luxury resort. This resort is pampering personified – offering guests luxury accommodation in an atmosphere of natural beauty to engender an environment of extreme relaxation.
After Kuala Lumpur, Penang is another popular destination. Affectionately known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient,’ Penang is situated 370 km from Kuala Lumpur on Malaysia’s north-western coast. Penang used to be the oldest British settlement in Malaysia but today it is one of Malaysia’s biggest tourist attractions.
Penang’s rich history is personified by Georgetown, the biggest city on the island, with its places of worship, city communities, bazaars, guilds, retail shops and trishaw peddlers. Georgetown is the result of a history of peaceful religious co-existence and exchange among the followers of the faiths of Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, as well as the Chinese religions of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism.
While in Penang, be sure to include a trip to the Snake Temple, a traditional temple swarming with poisonous pit vipers. It is thought these poisonous snakes are made drowsy by the smoke of the burning incense. The 33m long reclining Buddha is the main attraction in Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple and is believed to be the 3rd largest in the world.
Selangor is another must-see item on the travel checklist. Nicknamed the ‘Industrial Hub of the Nation’ it is the country’s premier state due to its natural resources, well-developed communications networks, industrial estates and skilled workforce. Selangor’s state capital, Shah Alam, is the home of modern architecture while Klang serves as a reminder of the old sultanate.
For water-sports enthusiasts, Langkawi is paradise. Lying off the north-western coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is the first of an archipelago of 99 islands. Langkawi is home to the world’s most pristine rainforests, limestone formations, stunning underwater caves and white sandy beaches washed by jewelled waters that team with a multitude of marine life – perfect for diving and snorkelling.
Plan your own luxury holiday to the jewel of Southeast Asia’s exquisite crown.
Travel Associates is an Australia-based travel agency specialising in Malaysia holidays and other luxury holiday options. For more holiday ideas and information visit their Malaysia holidays website.
THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF SITI MALAYSIA, TOURISM MALAYSIA’S – Tourism … – Tourism Malaysia officially launched its brand ambassador, aptly named `Siti Malaysia` at the Le Meridien Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, today. The event was officiated by Yg Bhg Dato’ Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, director general, Tourism Malaysia. …
Malaysia Hotels & Travel Guide – Malaysia Tourist Information – Malaysia Hotels s top travel destinations, possessing an endless range of attractions and activities that cater for the cosmopolitan shopper, cultural enthusiast, historical buff and nature-lover. The Full Day Malacca Excursion Tour takes you on a trip through time as you visit some of the city’s most historic landmarks. Visit the Dutch Square and the Queen Victoria Fountain or simply take a stroll down Jonker Street to sample Malacca’s uniquely rich cultural heritage.
Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort > BOB > Motu Toopua > Bora Bora > > >4.5>From Bora Bora Airport: A private boat takes approximately 20 minutes from the airport; the hotel shuttle boat from Viatape, three 2 miles / 3 kilometers away, takes approximately 10 minutes.
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