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If I were to translate it to English it will be 'the crying tiger meat'😏. Ask the chef I did and here is his reply ‘Harimau Menangis meat is the part on a cow that is so tender, juicy and nice yet it is hard for a tiger to reach hence the tiger cried for not being able to taste it’, so he said. Betul ke cerita ni?

This dish is famous in northern Malaysia as well as southern Thailand, in Thai it is called Suea Rong Hai and it is usually served with sticky rice. Their version of the story is that the appearance of the brisket cut to the skin of a tiger and called it “tiger meat”. When the meat is grilled, the fat that accumulates in the muscle fibers is melted by the heat and drops like a tear. Using their imagination, they named the dish “crying tiger”. (Source : Wikipedia)

Well, whatever the stories are, the meat is truly tender and juicy. This, I will not lie.

Many wondered, which part lah ‘daging harimau menangis’ nih?

After hours of googling, I have found out (or narrowed down) to the part that is berdekatan daging batang pinang or specifically di celah peha bahagian kaki belakang lembu.

Pic source : Google

So, if you want to try this famous and rare dish, head on to Summit Bamboo Garden Chinese Thai Restaurant, do call before going over or you might be the one crying instead. Hehhehheee….

Summit Bamboo Garden Chinese Thai Restaurant

The Summit Subang USJ

Persiaran Kewajipan

USJ 1, Subang Jaya

Selangor

Good Food Only 9 - Eat Travel Write Selangor 2019 Media Fam Trip is in collaboration with Unit Perancang Ekonomi Negeri (UPEN) Selangor and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

Little did I know that there’s a chocolate museum in PJ ie Kota Damansara. And little did I know, I can purchase all sorts of chocolate here… There goes my diet (dah lah dekat ngan office).

There are 2 museums, 1.0 and 2.0, and obviously the 2.0 is much better lah. I had fun and enjoyed the tour, it is not content heavy (ie dates, history etc), it is more on chocolate (briefly), collections, collaboration and the best part was the activity they organized for us. You know what, I think I gonna skip the museum content part and focus on the activity as I feel schools (primary, secondary, kindy etc) should make a trip here. The kids’ knowledge will be enhanced (on chocolate), though am not sure whether it’s a good idea to get their brain and them to be sugared high hahhahahhaaa…

They will first divide the group into a few team and each team will be given few types of chocolate/food décor to build…. a home! And once it is completed, you need to talk and upsell you home to others. Convince them that your home should be the winner. And the winner will bring home….. I pun lupa apa dia hahahhahahah…. I think it was like RM200 worth of voucher kot. Anyway, the activity was so much fun that I doubt anyone remembered how much the prize was.

There were debates, argument, justification, remodification and of course teamwork, but what I like the best was the presentation part. There was a love house, eco house, practical house, minimalist house, house withour doors, house without windows, house with and without gardens…so very very creative of them. And when one group finish presenting, the other group are allowed to ask questions with regards to that house… apa lagi kan hahahhahaaa… soalan-soalan cepumas keluar. Ventilation lah, loft lah, aexo friendly lah and many more. And this is when the team are supposed to defend their ‘architecture masterpiece’.

Basically what I am trying to say, it’s a great place if you want to learn/know about chocolate and you can bring your kids and family here too.

Chocolate Museum

2, Jalan Teknologi 3/5

Kota Damansara

Petaling Jaya

Selangor

Operating hours

Daily : 10am – 5pm

Entrance fee : RM10

URL : http://www.chocolatemuseum.my/

We all already know about the Legend of Mahsuri, the LIMA airshow, the Kilim Geopark, the chocolate and Pyrex Cik Kiah shopping, and etc. I guess the only thing for me to do is to share on outdoor activities that you can do in Langkawi (some of it are pretty new and some has been there for quite some time but not being highlighted enough).

Skytrex

Claimed to be the first of its kind in Malaysia, where one can ‘sky-trekking’ from tree to tree (reminded me of Chewbacca, I don’t know why) by either ‘flying’, swinging, gliding and dangling on the various obstacles course suspended to unleash the inner child in you. Skytrex Langkawi offers 3 circuits namely the Island Extreme (Advanced), Eagle Thrill (Intermediate) and Little Legend (beginner – the one I did). It is suitable for team building as it has a reasonable meeting room as well (for briefing/grouping).

Little Legend is designed with 23 obstacles for all age group (including children) and it is 3 to 5 meters from the ground and not to worry the maximum weight is 100kg (just incase there might be people asking kan). Eagle Thrill, an intermediate course is designed with 29 challenges at the height of 11 meters from the ground. It includes 8 ‘flying fox’, 5 horizontal challenges, 5 climbing obstacles and 5 descending tasks. The advanced course, Island Extreme consist of 30 of challenges to test your stamina and patience. It is also the largest circuit with 33 challenges at the height of up to 15 meters in the air comprising 15 ‘flying fox’, 5 horizontal challenges, 3 challenges of climbing and 3 descending challenges.

Excited? Make sure to include Skytrex in your itinerary for Langkawi.

Skytrex Langkawi

Jalan Teluk Yu

Kampung Kok

Langkawi, Kedah

Operating hours

Daily from 9am – 6pm

URL : https://www.skytrex-adventure.org/

Your Cruise

Ahh…. This one is suitable for honeymooners or a group of friends celebrating a joyous occasion. Where you can either join with another group of perhaps charter the whole boat for sunset dinner. So there are 2 things you can do here, one is the sunset dinner cruise and the other is the saltwater Jacuzzi, both are not to be missed.

The sunset dinner cruise takes 3 hours in total that includes and open bar free flow (softdrinks only for us), buffet dinner (mihun goreng, nasi goreng, BBQ sausages, garlic bread and etc) then of course there’s the popular saltwater Jacuzzi.

Few type of boats available, Sea Splash is the first and the only Non-Alcohol Cruise in Langkawi, then there’s Sama Sama Langkawi, a family cruiser suitable for event, and a few fleet of catamarans.

Romantic huh, try lah.

Your Cruise

Royal Langkawi Yacht Club

Jalan Dato Syed Omar

Langkawi, Kedah

Operating hours

Daily from 9am – 6pm

URL : https://www.yourcruiseservices.com/

Paradise 101

The latest venue/activity in Langkawi, Paradise 1-1 is a manmade private day-resort island where you can chillax, enjoy water sport activity or perhaps have your wedding here as they cater for private small function up to 1000pax. Paradise 101 is located near Telaga Harbour at Pantai Kok in Langkawi and can be accessed via boat shuttle, the journey takes approximately 10mins or less.

Paradise 101 Island offers a Paradise Day Pass, which cost RM240 per adult and RM120 per child (at the time of blog post) which includes welcome drinks, roundtrip to the island, towels usage, access to the floating water park, volleyball ground, kayak and water sports (at a discounted rate). Whereas for couples it is at RM450 and RM660 for families (2 adults and 2 kids). An evening pass costs RM70 per person that comes with a welcome drink at the OMG, live-band entertainment and access to the sunset decks. Additional charges for motorized sport and zipline.

Highly recommended for company event and wedding (especially wedding).

Paradise 101

Telaga Harbour Park

Pantai Kok

Langkawi, Kedah

URL : https://www.paradise101.com/

Mega Water Sports

This is fairly new to me as I have never tried a jetski tour before (and here I thought one only do jet ski joyride, boy was I wrong). The lowest package is RM600 for 4hours (abit steep huh and this is for riding alone, with passenger is RM700) inclusive of insurance coverage worth RM5,000,000.

The 3 islands are situated near Pantai Cenang; the starting point itself namely the Pulau Singa Besar (Island of Big Lion) where you may encounter monitor lizards, deer, eagles, hornbills etc. the 2^nd island is the Pulau Beras Basah that has a nice beach for swimming and snorkeling. Rebak Island is the last island where you will be able to check-out the lifestyle of rich and famous (yachts and sail boats dock here). You can also lepak for a yamcha session before heading back to the Pantai Cenang.

Mega Water Sports

Pantai Cenang

Jalan Pantai Chenang

Langkawi, Kedah

Operating hours

Daily from 9am – 6pm

URL : https://megawatersports.com/

Are you all set for Langkawi?

The Langkawi 2019 Media Fam Trip is in collaboration with Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

Langkawi was declared as a geopark by the #UNESCO since 2007 and I was fortunate to attend the launch of the new Langkawi Geopark Discovery Centre at the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. Themed as ‘Making The Past Present For the Future’, the centre showcases flora and fauna, socio-cultural, with facilities such as exhibition centres, amphitheater, a mini library and a gift shop. The Langkawi Geopark Discovery Centre provides information on Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi landscape as well as the famous Legend of Mahsuri, Matchinchang, Mat Raya and Mat Sawak.

During this event, OBIT was also being introduced. A trilobite, an ancient fossil arthropod, one of the earliest and longest living marine species 300 million years. It is from Palaeozoic Era a.k.a Trilobite Age which existed 540 million years. Obit can be found within the Machinchang sandstonean is the oldest fossil in Malaysia.

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park Langkawi are limestone formations that are over 500 million years old. You can experience this geopark by taking a boat ride around the mangrove area where you get to see not only the limestone formation but also the brahminy kite eagles and white-bellied sea eagles, otters, mud crabs, squirrels, monkeys and monitor lizards. It is situated about 20 minutes from Kuah Town whereby aside from mangroves and karst stone, one can also experience fossils filled caves with stalagmite and stalactites. Few caves that you can wander around with a certified guide will be the Crocodile Cave, Cave of Legends and Bat Cave (minus Batman and Robin).

Langkawi was the first Global Geopark in Southeast Asia being awarded the UNESCO Global Geopark status and there is only 147 geopark worldwide. Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark comprises Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park, and Kubang Badak BioGeo Trail.

Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park

It is the oldest sedimentary rock in South East Asia known as Machinchang Formation (aged Cambrian period 550-505 million years). These rock layers form the mountain range of Machinchang which is famous for the legend of the fight between Mat Chinchang and Mat Raya.

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Caves were made here, as the karstic hill forms coastlines arches and islet. Langkawi Archipelago has at least 90 significant geosites such as Pantai Pasir Hitam or Black Sand Beach that contains rocks and minerals that is rich in black mineral called tourmaline, dropstones at Pulau Tepor, Kilim and Sungai Itau’s well-preserved fossils among others.

Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park

It represents the Chuping Formation Limstone of Permian (290-250 million years). The limestone was formed into marble due to granite intrusion during the Late Triassic Period. Tropical weathering played a very important role in the birth of Langkawi landscape.

It also has information on the mangroves and its habitat, geoparks around the world, seascapes as well riverscapes of Langkawi island among others. I highly recommend for you to drop by Kilim Geopark and take the boat ride. I love it so much when I was there.

Operating hours

Monday to Sunday : 9am – 5pm

Boat fee

RM200 – RM500 for a boat and tour guide (for a group of minimum 8pax)

The Langkawi 2019 Media Fam Trip is in collaboration with Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

I told myself that I must write about this place, it is gonna be a good content and guess what, I forgot all about it… until I was cleaning my phone, transferring all the photos then only I realized that I have missed out this article. Aiseyyyy…. Age catching up ke Lily (eyes rolling).

What makes me think this place is content worthy?

Adam!

Yup! Adam Faisal…. I recalled him seeking my advice on esport stuff for his thesis and I was giving him ideas and tips of which doesn’t much weight I think (as esport if fairly new to me, huhu). He did explain and all, and I do now that Syed Saddiq supported this but it never register what is esport all about. I have a vague understanding but I doubt it is of any use if anyone were to ask me. But nah-ah… now I understood clearly what esport is all about and how it will pave the future of sport and IT (or is it IoT? Hemm…). Anyway, if you are into esport, this place is huge and…. Wait for it ‘legendary!!!!’.

I was already mesmerized the minute I step in into Pantheon, this is way before the owner explain what is it all about, what his investment like, the future of esport and…. The stuff they have. The stuff they have to you awed me. I was practically gawking… kid you not. OK ok ok… gawking might be abit dramatic, I was with ‘ooohs and wows and a lot of nodding’. Obviously lah kan, he spend 5mil to build this center, 5 juta hokkay! He has investor and all but influencing and convincing the investors are not easy job tau.

Ok, so let’s get start shall we…

Virtual Reality

Yes… they have a few sets of these baby… and some of us tried, it was hilarious. If you ever come here or decide to do a birthday bash here (yes, you can block this place for event as well), make sure you get your friends to try this. Sumpah lawak.

VIP Zone

There are about 6 gaming sets (itu ke bebudak panggil? Basically CPU, monitor and etc lah) but whatr makes it cool is that the respective room is dedicated(?) to a brand. For example Omen by HP, Alienware by Dell, Legion by Lenovo, Predator by Acer and others. This allows you to try different gaming brand to see whether the suitability before purchasing one.

Racing Simulators

This one… you F1 lovers. Just come here lah… tak mau cakap banyak. Tengok gambar and imagine yek.

Tournaments Arena

Yes! The Pantheon has a 123-seater arena for staging tournament, you know how it looks right, screen on top (center), people playing beneath it. Viewers sitting circling the arena and there is also a commentator room. Giler lengkap hokkay.

Hemmm… what else? Well, they have PS4 zone, their chairs are all custom made and super comfy, and they also have high-end liquid cooling systems CPU. They have a lot more to offer (other than those I’ve mentioned), you guys just need to drop by and experience it yourself.

Oh! There are very very strict, only those above 12 years of age are allowed, unless accompanied by their parents. Students with school uniforms are a big NO-NO. So, don’t think you can ponteng and come here to lepak tau.

The Pantheon

Lot 2-27 ,The Square @One City

Subang Jaya

Selangor

Operating hours: 11am-11.45pm (daily)

Too Jou (read : Tuju) is the new and trendiest hostel in Kota Kinabalu todate I would say.

I remembered the first time I saw the Too Jou, it was on Diana Teo Instagram post, she told me it’s a backpacker place, a hostel. But now that I am here, I realised that it is more of a flashpacker accommodation as the price range is rather steep for backapackers (especially local backpacker) as they provide a slightly upmarket value added services such as café, co-working place, roof top (still under reno), a slide (one of its cool features), instagrammable location, water dispenser, laundry room, free wifi and etc.

Just so we get it clear, there is a difference between a backpacker and a flashpacker, you guys do know this right? Here is what you get when googling flashpacker versus backpacker.

Flashpacker

Flashpacking is referring to an affluent backpacker. Whereas backpacking is traditionally associated with budget travel and destinations that are relatively cheap, flashpacking has an association of more disposable income while traveling and has been defined simply as backpacking with a bigger budget. Flashpacker as a rapidly growing segment of travelers who adhere to a modest accommodation and meal budget, while spending freely, even excessively, for activities at their chosen destination.

Backpacker

Backpacking is a form of low-cost, independent travel. It includes the use of a backpack that is easily carried for long distances or long periods of time; the use of public transport; inexpensive lodging such as youth hostels; often a longer duration of the trip when compared with conventional vacations; and often an interest in meeting locals as well as seeing sights.

Source : https://nomadsworld.com/what-type-of-traveler-are-you/and Google.

Now that we got this out of the way, it easy for you guys to understand the price mechanism tend to be abit on the higher side as it provides comfort and convenience. The dorm starts from RM45 (as of Oct 2019) and traveller has the option to select either dorm room (4, 6 or 8 per room, female/male/mix), as for studio double or twin, the price ranges from RM150 per room (for 2 pax, I have googled and noticed that you can get lower price from other website on promo). For that amount of comfort, I highly recommend Too Jou.

Walking distance to :

7-10mins walk to Gaya Street (Sunday Market) and Atkinson Clock Tower

12-15mins walk to Centre Point

15-20mins walk from Filipino Market Sabah

And most importantly, it is walking distance of less than 20mins to these places – 99 Speedmart, KFC, 7-11, Biru Biru Café, kopitiam and mamak.

On the 1st floor there is a co-working space called OPIS where you can actually have a group discussion, a space to work, a common area for mingling as well a copier machine for work purpose and a pantry. How can we work with no F&B kan.

There are also snooker and foosball table for those who wishes to take a break from opis work *wink*.

Yes. There is also a washing machine and dryer on the OPIS floor so you can actually do your laundry and work (while waiting). How good is that kan.

How can you not like Too Jou *heart*.

Toojou Sdn Bhd

12, Jalan Masjid Lama,

Bandaran Berjaya,

88000 Kota Kinabalu,

Sabah

Too Jou website : https://www.toojou.com/

The Langkawi 2019 Blogger & Social Media Influencer Fam Trip is in collaboration with Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

Been to Sabah and covered Mantanani (you can read it here) and early of this year I was lucky to be invited to cover Tawau, Lahad Datu, Semporna and Mabul. Lucky me huh…. Yet I have not been to the famous Tip Of Borneo ie Kudat. Yup, you guessed it right, I was insanely ecstatic when I got invited to cover Kudat and Kota Belud. In my mind was – Tip of Borneo, Pasar Tamu, Tegudon Tourism Village and Too Jou. What is Too Jou? Check it out here.

Many has visited Sabah and generally would cover Kota Kinabalu, Mount Kinabalu, Kudasang and Mabul. These are the towns favourited by Malaysian. One rarely heard of Kota Belud or Kudat… So I guess it is up to me then (ceh waaahh…) to share valuable information and tips on Kudat (Kota Belud later-later lah yek). So, aside from covering Kota Kinabalu or visiting the beautiful islands such as Sipadan, Mabul, Mataking and etc, you can also make a trip to Kudat. Here are a few tips/suggestions if you are heading to Kudat.

1. Tip of Borneo

- Best to come in the evening, then catch the beautiful sunset

- I should think sunrise will be as good, since it is…. after all…. The tip of Borneo kan.

- Come here early, an hour or so before sunset, this will give you plenty of time to take photos at daylight and at sunset

- The rocks towards the end is rather slippery so be very careful

2. Sumangkap Gong Village

- An important Rungus tribe musical instrument

- Entrance fee is RM3 for Malaysian and RM5 for non-Malaysian.

- The giant gong weighs 980kg and took 4 gongsmith 5 weeks to complete

- Gong was a communication tool to send signals to other villagers. Different rhythm translate to good or bad news. Eg, slow rhythm means an invitation for a drink, fast indicates danger. Dying will starts with a slow beat ascending, where else death will be slow beat, prolonged.

3. Bavanggazo Rungus Longhouse

- You can come here to look-see look-see or stay here for a night and experience Rungus lifestyle

- 3 to 3.5 hrs drive from Kota Kinabalu

- You can do a day-trip here

- For more details, click here

4. Learn surfing at Kalampunian Beach, Tip of Borneo

- We went to Blue Fin Surf And Dive

- Blue Fin offers accomoodation as well so you can stay here a d learn how to dive

- Best time to surf

>>> Southwest (May to September)

>>> Southwest monsoon (November to March)

Photo credit : Zarnizar, ashraf_suhaimi

5. Tambakan Fish Farm

- From RM180 which includes boat ride, snorkeling and lunch

- To book via travel agent or directly, I use Trek Finders Tour

- The lunch crazy giler sedap

Photo credit : Jaslin Puasa

#TravelTips

+ Do a 2D1N trip so that you don't rush youself

+ 3D2N trip if you wish to at surfing or/and the fish farm

+ Plan well as in distance looks near but due to the road condition, it might take longer time. Buffer additional 30mins or so.

+ Self drive is highly recommended BUT dp drive safely (no speedy)

+ Do visit cultural place to support local cottage tourism (beli lah souvenir sikit 😊)

+ You can stay in Kudat, there is plenty of places to select.

So how, interesting right *wink*.

The KUDATang Blogger & Social Media Influencer Fam Trip is in collaboration with Sabah Tourism Board and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

I am gonna tell you an interesting fact that I just learnt on Rungus Longhouse. I was so intrigued when I heard this.

Momogun Rungus is an ethnic group in Sabah (more in the northern part of Sabah) especially in Kudat. They are the sub-group of the Kadazan-Dusun, and have a distinctive language, dress, architecture, customs and oral literature. They are known for holding strongly to their culture and custom, and are thought to be the most traditional ethnic groups in Sabah. It comes as no surprise that many Rungus older generation folks still living in longhouses.

Rungus is famous for the beadwork known as Pinakol; a shoulder bands that is worn diagonally over each shoulder, crossing the chest and back like a sash. It usual contains 5 motifs/design/pattern ie Tiningulun representing a warrior, Tinompuling, a spear. Then there’s a gecko called Tinugarang, a wild flower named Vinusak and lastly Tinutub, a motif to complete the design.

We know that the Rungus longhouse is built using bamboo and all (well, I just got to know during this trip actually). Its interior is being divided into 2 areas – a long hall way where family can lepak, do kenduri works and etc, and partitions of room on the other side (per room consist of one family regardless the size of the family tau). Here's the thing...

#Funfact 1 : One longhouse can consist of one village. Like seriously hokkay.

#Funfact 2 : The room will be added as the family grew or get married. So, imagine lah how long this longhouse can be.

#Funfact 3 : Each room has its own kitchen (the room is pretty small, and please be reminded that per room consist of ONE family).

#Funfact 4 : There is a common kitchen qt the end of the long hall way. Yup! Proper kitchen with washing area and all. Tapi lupa nak ambek gambo pulak dah

#Funfact 5 : This is the INTERESTING part. When a family member passed away, they will make a 'hole' or 'a space' infront of the room hall way enough for the body to be carried down/out. The body WILL NOT be carried put thru the main entrance via the hall way.

Kg. Bavanggazo where the Rungus Longhouse is, is located near Tinangol in the Kudat district. It is about 41km from Kudat 100km from KK. You can stay here a night to experience Rungus delicacy, learnt their craft and enjoy their culture performances. There are also a few hiking tracks that can be arranged for you.

For up todate travel stories, follow me on my Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/lilyriani_travelholic/

Rungus Longhouse

Jalan Bavanggazo

Matunggong, Kudat

Sabah

The KUDATang Blogger & Social Media Influencer Fam Trip is in collaboration with Sabah Tourism Board and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

Hear ye, hear ye

thee campers and stargazers

Tegudon Tourism Village is situated 15km from Kota Belud. Famous for its camping and stargazing sites, this rural lanscape comes with a scenic view of paddy fields, Wariou River flowing over the tiny waterfall with Mt. Kinabalu guarding its tranquility.

Photo credit to TTV Facebook Page

This place is just so serene and beautiful and you have the time, do stay a night here to enjoy the scenery, hike to Minorit Hill, Ponohuan Waterfall and Mt. Tambuyukon, try the tubing and stuff. Having said that, do choose your traveling month carefully, avoid raining season. And make sure to pick during the time when the paddy field is at its greenest most. As for stargazing activities, ask them the perfect month or perhaps stay during meteor shower. I bet it’ll be spectacular.

Photo credit to TTV Facebook Page and Cip @Ekahardiwito / Ekahardiwito Bin Subagio Purwito

Activities

Camping, stargazing, trekking to Minorit Hill + Ponohuan Waterfall + Mt. Tambuyukon, ‍bamboo rafting, fish feeding and picnic.

Others

Entrance fee : RM3

Camping fee : RM7

Tent : RM40 (4-6 pax tent)

Hut : RM15 per night

Tegudon Tourism Village

Jalan Nahaba

KotaBelud, Sabah

Web : https://www.facebook.com/tegudontourismvillage/

Photo credit to : Tegudon Tourism Village Facebook and Cip @Ekahardiwito / Ekahardiwito Bin Subagio Purwito

The KUDATang Blogger & Social Media Influencer Fam Trip is in collaboration with Sabah Tourism Board and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

I saw Diana Teo posted about this place few months back and guess what, I get to visit this very same place during this trip. And I knew I will fall in love with Cabana Retreat, true enough I did.

Photo heavy post. You have been warned. Hehhehhee….

You see, I have been exposed to the glamping seen for a while now and we are aware of glamping site all over Malaysia (the famous one that is) but I have to be honest, I have not seen one by the beach with a very Instagrammable spot (despite I don’t do selfies and stuff, I am still at awe tau).

They have activities such as banana boat, ATV, paddle boat, cycling, volleyball and many more. And worry not as their service is pretty much like proper hotel, and the amenities is great too – breakfast, pool, free wifi, housekeeping, in-room dining service, toiletries, open cinema and barbecue.

Travel Tips
Travel Tips 1 : Kota Belud to Cabana Retreat id 1.5hrs

Travel Tips 2 : It is running full house on weekends, so book early

Travel Tips 3 : Many Instagrammable spots, so pack baju lawa2 tau

Travel Tips 4 : Nearest town is far hence buy your titbits to bring it over

Travel Tips 5 : You can bring your own food and BBQ here (BBQ pit is FOC)

Travel Tips 6 : They cater for romantic dinner by the beach kinda thingy too

Travel Tips 7 : Shower and toilet are located outside tau (sejak bila dalam tent ada toilet kan kan. Hahhahahaa….)

Tent Type

Classic Tent (1 queen) x 5 units
Deluxe Queen Tent (2 queen) x 6 units
Deluxe Single Tent (2 single) x 5 units
Quad tent (4 single) x 2 units

Verdict

You have to come lar, at least try it once. It is really a super duper cool experience. My recommendations are to stay a night here and another night probably camp at Tegudon for stargazing experience. Alternatively, is to camp at Tembara to enjoy another beautiful sunset. Ish… banyak pulak option, macam nil ah… make sure you stay at least 5 days in Kota Kinabalu (outskirt included). Supaya tidak menyesal kemudian hari.

Cabana RetreatKampung Rampayan Laut
Jalan Kudat
Kota Belud
Sabah

Web : https://www.cabanaretreat.com/

The #KUDATang Blogger & Social Media Influencer Fam Trip is in collaboration with Sabah Tourism Board and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

The sunset is nice huh!

There are 2 things that I underestimated Tembara, one was that I thought it will be JUST a another sunset (boy, was I wrong). Second, it is gonna be JUST another cruise (yeah yeah…. I was wrong. AGAIN).

Here is my story... It’ll be short. I promise. Swear (eyes rolling). We took the cruise, nothing fancy shmancy… Eh! Wait, let me back track abit.

First, we reach the Tembara Cruise jetty with the expectation that it is gonna be easy (I mean, susah sangat ke naik cruise. Duh….. ) but noooo…. We were required to experience cycling and kayaking. I was game on the cycling part, we were taken to the end point ie by the river (looks like a tiny beach to me), I saw a BBQ pit there… I remembered telling myself that it is a great spot to lepak and have picnic (BBQ would be better of course). It is also a great spot for Instagram. Swimming, nahhh…. I won’t remember as it is a huge river, there are currents kan.

After all the picture taking stuff, we cycled back to Tembara. Then we bumped into dogs in a verge of a fight, and guess what, one of my friend provoked it and they came running towards them. Since I was the last cyclist I decided to stop and not proceed, fearing the dog my turn around a chase me instead… my quick badass mind told me to turn right and into this huge compound and remain calm, and I did just that. Rupa-rupanya I turned into a cemetery, hemmm…. It is senja mind you. At that point of time, kena gigit anjing would probably be better than stuck in a cemetery at senja. Hahhahahaa….

I saw few folks waving at me (orang betul ke nih? Yup, that thought did cross my mind). They told me to come over as there were 3-5 dogs ‘running-amok’ (overdramatizing the whole situation, the dogs menyalak-nyalak ajer [acah gangster ler tew]). Anyway, the guide came to ‘escort’ me back to the Tembara. They then ask us to do a swap, those the cyclists are to experience the kayak and vice versa. I did not do the kayak so nothing to write lah kan *meh*.

The highlight

We were taken for a sunset cruise and my expectation was that we will be on the boat looking over the yonder kinda thingy. But to my surprise, we went to this island (if not, a peninsular of some sort) to catch the sunset and Sabah being Sabah, the hues were breathtaking. I was speechless.

This would be a cool thing to do

Camping (2 Days 1 Night Camping by the Sunset Beach)

Adult : RM150 p/pax

Kids : RM105 p/pax (4 to 12years old)

2 Days 1 Night Camping At The Beach

Day 1 - 3.30pm

In-house guide to conduct a safety briefing on kayaking (Depending on the currents, it’ll take approximately 30 - 60 minutes to the lagoon & Sunset Beach)

Put your tent up & make a bonfire before night fall. Once done, you'll then be transferred back to the jetty by boat for dinner and to freshen up.

Take the boat to watch fireflies making their appearance amidst mangrove.

Head back to your camp to enjoy the rest of the day.

Day 2 - 7.00am

Packed breakfast ready.

Depart back to the jetty by 7 o'clock.

Cost includes sunset kayak, life jacket, rescuer, guide, camping tent, campfire, dinner, fireflies sighting, packed breakfast, security guard and drinking water.

FAQ

Yes, ala-crate package is allowed

Only Tembara’s guest are allowed to go to the Sunset Beach (private beach)

Camping will be at the Sunset Beach *smile, wink, kiss*

Tembara respond time on their social media platform is 48-72hrs.

Tembara River Cruise

Kg. Benakal, Serusup

Tuaran, Sabah

Malaysia

Call: +60 16 838 3525

WhatsApp: +60 16 479 5319

Web : https://www.tembararivercruise.com/

The KUDATang Blogger & Social Media Influencer Fam Trip is in collaboration with Sabah Tourism Board and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel Magazine as media coordinator.

I was fortunate to be invited to attend Rentak Selangor and what makes it even special was that, one of the participated performancer was my secondary school – Catholic High School (CHS), Petaling Jaya. This time around; themed ‘Dendang Hati, Lagu Jiwa, Irama Kita’ covers the Chinese Rentak, Indian, Malay and Orang Asli Rentak. Showcasing unique and relatively new performances to the participating medias.

CHS performed Chinese Orchestra, Wushu, Taichi, Diablo as well as 24 Seasons Drums, welcoming us with Lion Dance by the Wushu Club. And I shall focus on the Chinese Orchestra as well as the 24 Season Drums.

Chinese Orchestra

Chinese orchestra is based on the structure and principles of a Western symphony orchestra using Chinese instruments. The orchestra is divided into four sections - wind, plucked strings, bow strings, and percussion, and is usually performs modernized traditional music. Some of the instruments used are Erhu (二胡), pipa (琵琶), Dulcimer (yangqin : 扬琴) and bamboo flute or (dizi : 笛子). The chinese orchestra in CHS emulates the Western orchestra in seating position of its musicians and composition techniques, it also sampled 2 songs from the popular Malay folks song namely Rasa Sayang and the famous Japanese song; Matsuri. The chinese song that they performed was the ever so famous Wong Fei Hung Theme Song - A Man Should Strengthen Himself.

1. Erhu 二胡

The erhu is one of the most important Chinese instruments, with a history of over 4,000 years.
Erhu (二胡) is a two-stringed bowed Chinese musical instrument, also known as the Chinese violin or Chinese two-stringed fiddle.
It can be used in both traditional and contemporary music arrangements; pop, rock and jazz.
Erhu is played vertically, resting on the musician's lap. It has no fingerboard, hence the player's fingers must hold and vibrate the strings by pressing only against the strings themselves.

2. Pipa 琵琶

The pipa (琵琶) is a four-stringed Chinese musical instrument, also known as Chinese lute.
It has been played for almost 2000 years in China and existed as early as the Han dynasty.
It was once reigned as the “king” of Chinese folk instruments.
The instrument has a pear-shaped wooden body and the string was once made of silk, however today, it is made of nylon-wrapped steel. Silk strings were played either with a plectrum or with bare fingers, but steel strings are played with finger picks

3. Chinese Drum 大鼓

The earliest known drums in China date back nearly four thousand years ago, around the time of the Shang Dynasty (c.1600 – c.1100 BCE)
Northern China prefer larger drums in terms of the size, while Southern China uses various types of small drums.
The Bass Drum (大鼓) are usually played with wooden drumsticks.
Back in those days, Chinese troops used drums to motivate troops, to help set a marching pace.

4. Bamboo flute 笛子

The dizi (笛子) is a Chinese transverse flute or Chinese bamboo flute.
Traditionally and most of the dizi is made by using (a single piece of) bamboo.
It is played using circular breathing "advanced" techniques.
The dizi is a key Chinese musical instrument, and is used in Chinese folk music, opera, and modern Chinese orchestra.

24 Seasons Drums

The 24 Seasons Drums, more known among the Chinese community in Malaysia as Ershisi Jieling Gu (二十四节令鼓) was invented in 1988 by a music teacher, Tan Hooi Song and a poet Tan Chai Puan, at Foon Yew High School in Johor. It consists of 24 large drum is called Shigu (獅鼓) that represents the agricultural seasons in the Chinese calendar. The original performance styles depict movements of farmers and activities on a farm. The name of each season is usually written in Chinese calligraphy on the drum.

The drum is played using two wooden sticks, striking its surface, sides or hitting the two sticks together. Each colour on the drum has a special meaning; the red symbolizes auspiciousness and passion, and the black represents perseverance, where else the yellow signifies the Chinese culture and tradition.

It was a very enlightening experience where we not only get to see but also to try our hand at the instruments (mainly drum lor, ehhehheee…).

Rentak Selangor Fam Trip is in collaboration with UPENS (Unit Perancangan Negeri Selangor), Tourism Selangor and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel as media coordinator.

Keroncong is believed to have Portuguese and Indonesian origins. The history indicated that sailors on Portuguese ships played small long-necked guitars and sang songs. Over time, the local Indonesian embraced the music and localize it to what we have today especially in Solo. Keroncong first appeared in 1891 in Surabaya and in 1920s keroncong spread like wildfire all over the island of Java. It was made famous only during the 1935 and 1945 circa ie the Big Band era, it became popular in the hotel ballrooms of the middle classes. It has made its journey to Malaysia and eventually nestled in the strait state as well as Selangor.

Keroncong reached the peak in the 1960s but it fade soon after, now often dubbed as ‘the music of old people’. A great and painful struggle to not only attract the younger generation, but also to nurture and create a pool of apprentices to this beautiful music. One of the ways is to incorporate keroncong-ise modern music to ensure it stays true and forever.

Some said that keroncong is a small ukulele-like instrument in an Indonesian music, and that the word keroncong originated from the krong-krong sound made by strumming the instrument.

Chak

Double Bass

A 6 piece musician consists of violin, guitar, chak (4 string ukulele-like instrument), chuk (3 string ukulele-like instrument), cello and double bass. The vocalist sings in vibrato style, the chuk emphasizes the on-beat; the chak accentuates the off-beat; the 3 nylon strings cello acts as drum (amazing right), whereas the double bass punctuates the melody; and the guitar plays melody.

Chuk

Violin

There are 3 types of Keroncong, namely Keroncong Asli, Stambul and Langgam. Below explanation taken from The Music of Malaysia: The Classical, Folk and Syncretic Traditions ByPatricia Matusky, Tan Sooi Beng

Keroncong has 4 stages of evolution todate.

Keroncong tempo doeloe or old tempo keroncong (1880-1920),
Keroncong abadi or evergreen keroncong(1920-1960)
Keroncong modern or modern keroncong (1960-2000)
Keroncong Millenium or millenium keroncong (2000-todate)

Cello

No nation can claim that their traditional musics are free from foreign influence. Keroncong music was introduced to Peninsular Malaysia by Javanese immigrants. In the state of Selangor, most of them lived in Kelang, Banting and Hulu Selangor. There were suggestions to make Keroncong as Selangor Traditional Music but no concrete actions taken by Selangor authorities - By Dr. Ariff Ahmad.

If you wish to engage with them, either to know more, learn or get them to perform at an event, feel free to call them directly J

Rentak Selangor Fam Trip is in collaboration with UPENS (Unit Perancangan Negeri Selangor), Tourism Selangor and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel as media coordinator.

Hahahhahhaha…. Glamping site in Selangor. And you don’t need to drive all the way to Pahang as the location is in Batang Kali. Near huh, approximately an hour drive from Batu Caves. Hidup Selangor! #eh

I don’t even know where there to start…. For those who have been to a glamping site would probably understand. For me, the only time I experienced this was when I went to Sabah recently, but the site was by the sea. It being in an orchard and by the river is refreshing. Everything was well design and the landscape was very next-door-nature-like, coupled with amenities (listed below)… I have to say, I wouldn’t mind recommending this to friends and family.

Back of the bell tent

Glam 4 Bell Tent

Glam 4 River – 4 pax (2x queen size bed), RM350 p/tent

Glam 4 Hillside – 4 pax (2x queen size bed), RM350 p/tent

Glam 5 Poolside Bell Tent

Glam 5 Bell Tent

Glam 5 River – 6 pax (3x queen size bed), RM650 p/tent

Glam 5 Hillside – 6 pax (3x queen size bed), RM650 p/tent

Glam 5 Poolside – 6 pax (3x queen size bed), RM650 p/tent

Studio Villa

Villa

Studio Villa – (queen size bunk bed), RM800 p/home

Must have amenities for (and they do HAVE *happy mode*)

Proper toilet
Clean and proper toilet
Shower/bathroom
Fan - at least
Kitchen utensil, cup, plates and etc

Common dining area
Common kitchen washing area
Kids playground – bonus for having this
Public prayer room

#TravelTips

You can also do barbecue here (but do check with them first if they can arrange it for you instead)
Bring insect repellent (kat bandor pun ada nyamuk, kat sini sure lah ado kan)
Bring titbits/jajan, as the nearest shop is not near at all (jauh giler)
Since you are at it, bring water too lah kan
No NETWORK (this is not a tip, it’s a WARNING to kids. Muahhahahhah…. [evil laugh])
Hence, what must you bring instead….? Board games and cards! (yes, it has survived the course of time)
There’s a pool… for those that don’t fancy mandi sungai (the river is very shallow)
Bring your sport shoes as you can also go for a hike to the waterfall

Dusun Bonda

Lot 2121 (2996), Jalan Ulu Tamu

Kampung Orang Asli Gurney

Ulu Tamu, Batang Kali

Selangor

Whatsapp : +6012-6633 667

Web : www.dusunbonda.com

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/dusun_bonda/

Rentak Selangor Fam Trip is in collaboration with UPENS (Unit Perancangan Negeri Selangor), Tourism Selangor and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel as media coordinator.

I bumped into this brand at one of the art bazaar at GE Mall of Jalan Ampang. I immediately feel this brand can go far, it has a good objective and focus just by looking at the concept and product. What Malaysia independent art souvenir scene is currently lacking (cakap macam real-real je, ahaks).

Joke aside, the concept is very good. Well thought thru in my opinion.

The product is pretty much normal but not common in Malaysia if one is looking for a gift/souvenir from souvenir. The usually stuff that we get tends to be the fridge magnets, keychain, fan, luggage tag and etc. But what Bingka KL did was on top and above, as they covered kitchen towel (you can get this easily in Europe), coasters, pouches and tote bag. What made Bingka stands out is in its concept, it features Malaysia culture and heritage, something that is so common but did not get enough visibility (I think so lah).

Instead of featuring the Melaka Stadhuys, the twin tower, the orang utan, Batu Caves and etc, Bingka injected ‘design’ that is close to Malaysia heart, one that we wouldn’t mind buying for ourselves. Kuih Bingka, pulut tai tai, Malayan Tiger, Negaraku, sirap bandung, mooncake, mangkuk sia/tingkat, Penang shop façade, kaya… and many more. Something that any of us can buy and bring when traveling, exchange or as a gift to new friends. A great conversation starter, we can educate and promote Malaysia, our culture and heritage.

A nice touch to it is that at the back of the pouches, stated ‘With Love from Malaysia’. This makes it sound very personalized.

Pouches are my favourite as it is practical and one can use it for almost anything, next would be a tote bag. And the placemat is cool too, gosh…. I might be buying the whole design (facepalm).

The Bingka team were besties since standard one - Adrihana and Emmalyn, both were Mechanical Engineering and Digital Animation students, respectively. Adri leads the operations in Bingka and Emma, designs what we see today. In fact, Emma has worked on international blockbuster movies before.

When asked why Bingka, why not Lapis, Kasui, Putu Piring and etc. They said that they wanted a short, catchy and easy for people to pronounce, regardless of nationality. What better then Bingka, a traditional food where us Malaysia appreciate of/most.

Web : https://www.bingka.my/

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bingka.kl/

Kuala Lumpur For All Fam Trip is in collaboration with VisitKL and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel as media coordinator.

Cake Pop. Am sure you have heard of one or at least seen/ate one.

Well, I haven’t but I have been ogling Craze Pop Instagram account for quite awhile now, you won’t believe how thrilled I am when they have been selected to be part of KL Media Trip. Rain or shine, I will be there, me telling Della.

No no… you need to understand how long this was for me, how I want to try but have no reason to buy (am not a birthday/party sort of girl [so don’t bother throwing me a surprise birthday party, I probably get upset]). What I did a couple of months back was I placed an order and paid (curious punya pasal) but TERforgot to take it. Betullll... lupa ambek.

So here I am, meeting the Craze Pop owner, lotsa of questions to ask (but I need to mum cause I need to give way to other media and Shad to ask questions [internal joke] but 10 mins before we bid adieu, I got my ‘time’ to ask her questions. Muahahhaha….. ßevil laugh.

We were taught on how to make the cake pop and etc, knowing myslf, I should do what I do best – BUY! Hahhahahaa…. Leceh bebenor nak belajar buat bagai.

Anyway, lemme share abit about Kak Nur. She used to be in the work force, an experience designer. Then she decided to quit and focus on work that she can manage her own time and yet, still involve in designing (well, kinda). Not into baking, she began to search on baking that doesn’t require baking (oven type of baking). Cake pop was the easiest and closest she could find as she can buy a good delicious cake and start from there… however, she said now she has to take up baking as well as the order quantity increases. This is to ensure consistency in taste and availability.

Ass shown, the design varies upon request. Kak Nur will analyse the feasibility of creating the requested design before agreeing with the order. This is the part that requires creativity, artistic flare and stable hand. Go check-out her Instagram account and go oohh-aahh… over her food art.

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/crazepop/

For order and class enquiry : whatsapp +6019- 334 8010 or https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=60193348010

With regards to my uncollected order. Kena order baliklah kan. Hahhahaa…

Kuala Lumpur For All Fam Trip is in collaboration with VisitKL and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel as media coordinator.

There are many local malay food lauk/hiding style in Kuala Lumpur that is delicious, dining style and opens at night. This is to my knowledge lah until I saw their Instagram appeared on Explore, I start scrolling their feed and checking out their dishes, presentation and the restaurant. I remembered ‘nodding and saying not bad’, and that I can recommend this to Gaya Travel for thei KL Fam Trip. I was jumping with joy when Della said that she contacted Rasa Desa and they are happy to welcome us (feed our tummy more like it) and true as the Instagram feed, the food served is as good as the photos.

The question would be, which one should I try kan?

ALL…. The masak lemak cili api itik salai is yummy, like…. Yummy giler. Then there’s the asam pedas, masak tempoyak and etc. The sambal belacan is also sedap, even their sago with santan and gula Melaka also mouthwatering (sumpah sedap).

I asked the beautiful owner Syarifah Nadzlira Myra on why Malay food, why in Damansara Heights and why she venture into the food business. Came from family that love and appreciate good food, it is no surprise that she decided to dive into food business. Exposed to cooking at a young age, this young restaurapreneur enjoys cooking Malay cuisines, and is passionate at introducing our unique delicacies internationally. When bouncing the options of where she wants her RasaDesa Restaurant to be at, a few places came to mind, finally she settled with Damansara Heights where there’s plenty of offices, in a township that is located in between KL and PJ, and lacking of good Malay cuisine restaurant within the area. And I have to agree, it is indeed a good choice.

Eating tips

1. Parking – as the restaurant location is in Medan Damansara, we all know how the parking is lah kan. So come early or be prepared to walk the distance or alternatively you can park at the Covered Car Park next door. Just be ready with your Touch N Go Card jer. But trust me, you won’t be disappointed (even you have to walk a mile #eh) as the food is tasty. Gitew…

2. Must tries – The masak lemak cili api itik salai is so sedap, so is the tempoyak dish. The sago gula Melaka also is a must MUST.

3. Reservation – Highlight recommended as the restaurant is not that big, if you guys are coming in a big crowd then do reserve first yah. I don’t want you guys to wait/queue.

4. Opening time – They open for lunch and dinner.

5. Lunch set – Yes, do check their Instagram as theyhave lunch set promo from time to time.

6. Entertain client – A great place, ambience and food for you guys to entertain your client on Malay local delicacies. Also an ideal place for you to bring parents (in law)… if you plan to impress them lah. *wink*

7. Friendliness – Base on my experience, the Rasa Desa team is super friendly and nice. Insha Allah they will during your visit.

I am planning to bring my mom here. Howabout you?

RasaDesa

47, Jalan Medan Setia 1

Bukit Damansara

Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours

Mon-Wed : 11am-5pm

Thur-Sat : 11am-3pm, 630-10pm

Mobile : 012-260 6433

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Rasadesa.KL/

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/rasadesa.kl/

Kuala Lumpur For All Fam Trip is in collaboration with VisitKL and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel as media coordinator.

Been wanting to visit Kwai Chai Hong for the longest time (tak long sangat pun as they launched only recently), but I was happy that there would be a media trip here.

Nehh…. The above intro tak cun. Let me start again.

As some of you might know, I simply love meeting a story teller especially if it is about history and stuff. And Zeen is definitely damn good one, her passion and flare at telling a story got me glued. Spellbound. Basically gawking lah…

Many of my Malay friends know Kwai Chai Hong as Kwai Chai Hong, but for me… I understood it as Ghost Boy Lane (literal translation). And today, I get to know why Kwai Chai Hong is called Kwai Chai Hong. According to Zeen, there’s 2 version of this story, the 1^stone being this area was once infamous for gangsterism, prostitution, gambling, drugs/opium den and all other vice activities known to mankind back then.

And in Cantonese dialect, all the vice activity folks are colloquially called gambling ghost, opium ghost and pimp ghost. Similar to the Malay language, we always say hantu judi or kaki judi, hantu perempuan and etc. Hence the lane is called Kwai Chai Hong or Little Ghost Lane.

The 2^nd version is about Chinese settlers that came to Malaysia in early 1960s. Most of them works in the (starch) flour mill at the end of the street hence the name Chee Cheong Kai, meaning 'Starch Mill Street' also popularly known as Petaling Street or Jalan Petaling. The kids are usually cared by the grandparents, and kids being kids, they prank the elders to keep themselves entertained. Hence the name Kwai Chai Hong, for the kids are often being scolded ‘naughty like a ghost’.

Project Kwai Chai Hong is a ‘5-sekawan passion project’; Ho Yung Wee, Coco Lew, Terence Liew, Javier Chor, and Zeen Chang. Their vision is to not only restore this neglected lane, but most importantly to revive and reflect the early Chinese settlers’ lifestyle and scene during the 1960s.

With its narrow doors and windows, lack of a five-foot walkway and the back door is facing the street (weirdly), Kwai Chai Hong is enveloped by Guangdong Xiguan style buildings that was built during British colonial era between 1884 and 1906.

Challenged by NGOs, Zeen has proven that the maintaining the architectural heritage is her utmost priority, consulted with the heritage subject matter expert, she ensure that the Kwai Chai Hong area is not repainted nor torn down. The display windows and the roof tiles used were recycled from the collapsed roof and worn out windows. The red moon bridge at the entrance was to camouflage the restaurants drainage pipes that happens to face Kwai Chai Hong's walkway.

Cast iron lamp post

To ensure visitors are well informed of its history, QR code are placed at key designated area to hear assumed conversation that took place back in those days.

To take visitor down the memory lane, murals depicting the old school scene can be seen at strategic location (with QR narrating the story) such as an old man playing the erhu, kids playing marbles, a calligrapher writing letters on behalf of illiterate family members (to be send back home), and a fiery prostitute. One can also see an old cast iron lamp post that was estimated to be 100 years old.

There is also a landlady mural that reminded me of Kungfu Hustle movie, within the mezzanine floor one need to search for a ‘merdeka’ clue.

Todate, Kwai Chai Hong has hosted many events and rented its location for movie/advertisement. And from 16-24 November 2019, Kwai Chai Hong hosted Panggung Puisi as part of Urbanscapes 2019 event.

Panggung Puisi at Urbanscapes 2019

Kwai Chai Hong

Lorong Panggung

Kuala Lumpur

URL : https://www.kwaichaihong.com/

Operating Hour

Daily : 9am - 12am

Kuala Lumpur For All Fam Trip is in collaboration with VisitKL and all its sponsors with #GayaTravel as media coordinator.

Second DIY trip with Anna.

We decided to venture places ‘unventured’ before (no, there is no such word exist).

I was sincerely impressed with Anna, knowing that she is very much a city girl, trolley dolly and tour group type of traveler. The first time she agreed to travel with me is to the Balkan countries where we covered Slovenia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as Austria and Germany (Frankfurt). To be honest, I was a tad worried as everything was not pre booked and these countries is not as modern as London, Paris or US that she frequented. But I was surprised that she coped really well and don’t mind all the long tiring walk (after all, I am the type that absolutely love to walk and wander around the city, especially old town). In fact, she wandered alone in Frankfurt, Vienna and in Sarajevo. Tabik spring…

I can’t recall how we plan, decide, or whatchamacallit… all I remembered was Anna whatsapping (or was it a call?!!) me saying we going to both Iceland. As we are flying via Copenhagen, that smart woman did the math and said we can actually extend our transit in Copenhagen for a few days with an additional RM600 (IF I remembered correctly). And so we did.

1 month later, we were in Denmark.

The only thing we did was book a flight and our 1^stcity location, we plan to book the stay in Reykjavik the day we arrive Copenhagen. Smart huh. NOT.

We figure we shall learn to travel spontaneously. Since I was able to do the same in South India, I am sure we will fare well in this trip. We did bump into a few hiccups when we were in Iceland, kinda panicky one.

Anyway. Copenhagen is super easy to navigate oneself. Really. Super. Easy.

Stay in the city and your life is a bliss. Even if you don’t stay in the city, the city itself is pretty straight forward. You can even do your own walking tour. In fact, ‘get amazing lost’ in the city… you’ll find your way back in no time. Trust me (and all we have is a paper map). We stayed a walking distance from the stay, roughly a 10 mins walk or so, and this 10 mins walk is very pleasant and we will be walking by bakery shops, canal and old churches. There are a few ways to get to the city and my favourite is the route where it takes you through Nyhavn or New Harbour… it is the icon of Denmark.

Nyhvn

Almost everywhere can be done on foot, Nyhvn, Tivoli Gardens, Hard Rock Café, The Little Mermaid, Christiansborg Palace, The Radhus or Town Hall and etc. That is, if you up for a walk lah, a very very loooooong goooood walk. Hahhahaha…. As you walk into the street of Nyhavn, you’ll see the 17th-century colourful waterfront buildings, canal with boats docking, cafes and pubs blasting soft music in the evening sunset. Been to many cities in my travels, yet only Nyhvn gives me this ambience hence I always have the urge of going back, reliving my memories.

Papiroen or Paper Island

In one of our walks, we heard music by the warehouse at the rivedbank, people enjoying the sun, breeze and snack. We check the map and found out this place is called Food Market on Paper Island or Papiroen. We knew it’s a place we must venture…

This is the place where you sample Denmark street food. Yup!!!! Street food.

Opening Hours (Autumn / Winter)

Monday – Wednesday 12:00 – 9:00pm

Thursday – Saturday 12:00 – 10:00pm

Sunday 12:00 – 9:00pm

Copenhagen Street Food

PapirØen/The Paper Island

Warehouse 7 & 8

Trangravsvej 14

Copenhagen

I was ecstatic when I received the invitation, glancing thru the culture and heritage places that we will be covering, plus food (oh this time around the food is simply amazing!), not forgetting the educational and fun part (this is rather mind blowing if I may say so myself). You guys better stick to my blog like a Scrat to an acorn (Ice Age reference) cos everything, and I mean E.V.E.R.Y.T.H.I.N.G that I covered will simply impress and surprise you. Basically you will be ‘im-prise’. Ahaks.

I have covered Ipoh Heritage Trail some time ago (click HERE) and I was glad that this time around we will be covering… jeng jeng jeng…. The Ipoh Mosque Trail! I bet many of you are not aware the existence of this trail huh. Neither do I, but I am so glad that we did cos the mosques that we manage to cover were rather unique.

Perak Mosque Trail Map. (Credit to DKosognLapan)

Back in 2014, Tourism Malaysia Perak has compiled a mosque trail covering Masjid Dato’ Panglima Kinta (built in 1898), Masjid India Muslim (1908), Masjid Kampong Paloh (1912), Masjid Pakistani (1930), Masjid Sultan Idris Shah II (1968), Masjid Baru Cina Muhammadiah (2013) and Masjid Ubudiah in Kuala Kangsar (1917). Travelers will get to see the architecture dated way back in 19^th century being preserved. Interestingly, all the architectures have the elements of Chinese, Hindu and British.

I was told that this trail has attracted travelers from all over the world. Unfortunately for us, we only managed to cover 3 mosques during this trip; Masjid Dato’ Panglima Kinta, Masjid India Muslim and Ipoh State Mosque. I would like to also share 2 mosques that I wrote in my previous blog entry, namely Masjid Ubudiah in Kuala Kangsar and Masjid Ihsaniah Iskandariah in Padang Rengas.

Indian Muslim Mosque

Mogul style architecture, lacey scallop design and green in colour is the famous Indian Muslim Mosque. Constructed in 1908, the mosque was funded Shaik Adam, a wealthy Tamil Muslim. The main purpose was to gather the Indian Muslim community within the area. I was told that the khutbah is done in Indian language.

Indian Muslim Mosque

Jalan Seenivasagam

Ipoh, Perak

Masjid Sultan Idris Shah II / Ipoh State Mosque

Despite that the Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque or the Ipoh State Mosque looks very simple and not as grand as the Ubudiah #Mosque in Kuala Kangsar but the info about it is rather interesting. This mosque was officially opened in September 1978 and it is unique as it jas 44 orange domes. There are 30 dome ventilation airways (not sure what I should name it), and 14 round-flat ventilation airways. The 44 ventilation roof airways was sealed when they fully air-conditioned the whole place in 1995.

Masjid Sultan Idris Shah II

Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab

Ipoh, Perak

Masjid Dato’ Panglima Kinta

Also known as ‘Central Mosque’, this blue Moghul-designed mosque was built in 1898 by Dato' Panglima Kinta Muhammad Yusuff to commemorate his wife who passed away. This was once the largest mosques in Ipoh back then. There is a family mausoleum located behind the mosque, a renowned Egyptian Quran teacher Shaik Tholji who popularizing Quran recitals in Perak is also buried in Panglima Kinta's family mausoleum. Somehow this reminded me oh Shah Jehan and Muntaz Mahal love story.

Masjid Dato’ Panglima Kinta

31, Jalan Masjid, Kampung Kuchai

Ipoh, Perak

Ubudiah Mosque

Known as the most photographed mosque in Malaysia, this beautiful gold dome mosque is located next to the mausoleums of the Royal Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar. Built in 1887 by Sultan Idris Murshidul Adzam Shah, Ubudiah Mosque is also known as the Royal Mosque. It is said that the architecture influenced by `Saracenic' (Islamic-Indian) and the domes were taken from the Indian Moghul architecture.

Ubudiah Mosque

Jalan Istana

Kuala Kangsar

Perak

Ihsaniah Iskandariah Mosque

The intricacy of kelarai (woven bamboo strips) - a cultural and artistic heritage from the mosque's walls - have made Masjid Ihsaniah Iskandariah's famous nationwide. Also known as Masjid Kampung Kuala Dal, this unique 1936 mosque with Arabesque influences was financed by Al-Marhum Paduka Seri Sultan Iskandar Shah, the Sultan of Perak. It is aslo said to resemble a bird cage. The mosque was built by Chinese artisans and assisted by local residents. The ornamentations and wall of the mosque were carved and woven by locals, making it even more special. The mosque had a relatively short life - it stopped being used in 1976 after the Al-Wahidiah Mosque was built next to it. Read HERE.

Ihsaniah Iskandariah Mosque

Kampung Kuala Dal

Padang Rengas

Perak

(To cover in the near future : Masjid Kampong Paloh (1912), Masjid Pakistani (1930) and Masjid Cina Muhammadiah (2013))

As you can see, the mosques(trail) in Perak comes in different architectures, colours and audiences. No one mosque is the same hence none should be missed.

The VM2020 Heritage and Family Fun 2019 Media Fam Trip is organized by Tourism Malaysia in partnership with all its sponsors.

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