Category: Travel

My Personal, Travel

8 Reasons Why You Have to Visit Georgetown, Penang: A Captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malaysia

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Photo by Merry Zar on Pexels.com

Georgetown, located on the northeastern coast of Penang Island in Malaysia, is a vibrant city that offers a wealth of cultural heritage, historical significance, and tantalizing cuisine. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a fascinating past and a thriving present. It is the place where my wife grew up in and her family still lives there. Basically I travel quite often to Penang every now and then. Hence, I would really love to share with you about what I know about Penang. Let’s delve into the 8 reasons why you should travel Georgetown:

#1 Historical Significance
Established in 1786 by the British East India Company, Georgetown quickly grew into a bustling trading port. Its architecture reflects the blend of Eastern and Western influences, showcasing a captivating mix of Chinese, Indian, Malay, and British colonial styles. Strolling through its streets feels like stepping back in time.

#2 UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2008, Georgetown’s historic center was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing its outstanding preservation of multicultural heritage and historic buildings. This distinction highlights the city’s commitment to conserving its unique cultural identity and architectural gems.

#3 Street Art and Murals
Georgetown is renowned for its vibrant street art scene. The city has become an open-air gallery, with numerous captivating murals adorning its walls. The famous “Marking George Town” project by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic showcases interactive and thought-provoking artworks depicting local life and culture.

#4 Culinary Delights
Food enthusiasts flock to Georgetown to experience its delectable cuisine. The city is celebrated as a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse array of flavors influenced by Chinese, Indian, and Malay communities. From aromatic hawker stalls to charming cafes and upscale restaurants, Georgetown’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself. Food to look out for when you’re in Penang are char kuey teow, prawn mee, pasembur, nasi kandar, asam laksa, cendol, white curry noodle, rojak and many more!

#5 Festivals and Celebrations
Georgetown comes alive with vibrant festivities throughout the year. The city celebrates a range of cultural and religious festivals, such as Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Thaipusam. These celebrations showcase the harmonious coexistence of different ethnic communities and provide a captivating glimpse into their traditions and customs.

#6 Cultural Scene
Georgetown is a thriving hub of arts and culture in Malaysia. The city hosts numerous art exhibitions, music festivals, and cultural performances, attracting artists and enthusiasts from around the world. The Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, located in Georgetown, offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich heritage and contemporary art scene.

#7 Shopping and Entertainment
Georgetown offers a diverse shopping experience, catering to every taste. From bustling markets and vibrant night bazaars to modern shopping malls, visitors can find everything from traditional crafts and antiques to fashionable clothing and local delicacies. After sunset, the city’s nightlife comes alive with trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues.

#8 Natural Attractions
Penang boasts natural attractions like Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang National Park, Tropical Spice Garden, Penang Hill, Botanical Gardens, and Monkey Beach. These diverse spots offer sandy shores, rainforests, gardens, hilltop views, and secluded beach retreats, providing visitors with a range of options to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Georgetown, Penang, is an enchanting city that seamlessly combines its rich history, multicultural heritage, and vibrant modernity. Its captivating UNESCO World Heritage status, tantalizing cuisine, and thriving arts scene make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in Malaysia. Immerse yourself in Georgetown’s charm and discover the wonders that await around every corner. So it’s time to plan ahead your trip to Penang now and book your stay here!

Food & Drink, Travel

Ramadan Buffet Kembara in Swiss-Garden Hotel & Residences, Genting Highlands

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Here’s another great option for buffet Ramadhan at Genting Highlands. Without iftar, also referred to as buka puasa, the holy and fasting month of Ramadan would not be complete. Are you looking for a variety of dishes that combine local and international cuisine? Look nowhere else!

The best buffet spreads in town can be found at Bufet Kembara Ramadan at Swiss-Garden Hotel & Residences, Genting Highlands! For the restaurant’s expanding clientele seeking family dining and corporate entertainment venues, the culinary team will once more serve up notable and time-tested favourites at the Garden Terrace Restaurant.

Due to the hotel’s strategic location, which puts the popular tourist destinations like Skyway Cable Car and Genting Highlands Premium Outlet (GPO) within easy reach, guests will find this venue very convenient.

The delicious traditional spread at Bufet Kembara Ramadan features different dishes every day. Throughout the holy month of Ramadhan, Chef Sunny Cho and his team are dedicated to ensure each dish and serving is authentic.

The chef recommended to begin with salads and traditional dishes like Sambal Belacan, Budu, Acar Mentah, Kicap Chilli Bawang, and Rojak Mamak to keep things light. There are many options available for those who are concerned about their diet and nutrition, including Ulam-Ulam Kampung, Acar Mentah, Papadom, and Acar Rampai.

For the main course, do find these dishes appealing – Kengsom Siakap, Keli Masak Berlado, Siput Sedut Masak Lemak Cili Api, Kari Kambing, and Kambing Golek.

Sweet-toothed individuals can indulge in a variety of kampung desserts made from recipes that have been handed down through the generations. Be tempted by the delicious and colourful desserts like Kuih-kuih Melayu, Cendol, Ice-Cream, Pengat Pisang, Bubur Kacang Merah, Pudding, Jelly, and a variety of fruits. A Pastries Corner and an abundance of locally grown seasonal fruits, such as Watermelon, Honeydew, and many others, are also available.

Quench your thirst with a variety of refreshing drinks at the drinks station, including Sirap Bandung, Pineapple Juice, Orange Juice, Teh Tarik, Kopi Tarik, Sirap Limau, and Guava Juices.

Treat your taste buds to a culinary extravaganza as the culinary team prepares a feast not to be missed. The options available, which include many traditional treats that customers have come to know and love, will astound diners.

Winning a lucky draw when good luck strikes

The food stall-style foods will be set up in Garden Terrace Restaurant with a focus on the mini-concept stall. Your taste buds will definitely be satisfied by the special featured dishes.

Price:
RM75+ adult
RM38+ senior citizen/kids

Book now!
Call: 014-7128747/012-3082786
E-mail: fnb@shrgh.swissgarden.com

All prayer can be perform at the prayer room in Ballroom at Level 5.

For more information, check out:
Website: https://www.swissgarden.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/SwissGardenGentingHighlands
IG: https://www.instagram.com/swissgardengentinghighlands

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Food & Drink, Travel

Ramadan Buffet Selera Kampung D-Geo at Geo Resort & Hotel, Genting Highlands

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It’s the holy month of Ramadan. Let’s indulge in “Selera Kampung D-Geo” nostalgic buffet dinner from 23 March through 24 April 2023, at Cabana Restaurant in Geo Resort & Hotel, Genting Highlands where you can find local favourites and regional specialties inspired by their chefs’ inventive recipes. Reminisce over traditional Malaysian Kampung delicacies as you enjoy a nostalgic dinner with your family and friends.

With live show kitchens and a traditional spread of regional and international cuisines, enjoy the ultimate nostalgic buffet dinner with your loved ones. A few of the buffet’s specialties are Siput Sedut Masak Lemak Cili Padi, Nangka Muda Masak Lemak Ikan Masin, Kambing Golek Arang, Assorted Ikan Bakar and many more. Then, to round off the evening, indulge in a variety of desserts, including Assorted Malay Kuih-Muih, cakes & pastries and much more.

The nostalgic buffet dinner at Geo Resort & Hotel will be offered from 23 March to 24 April 2023. The regular price will be RM168 for an adult, RM75 for children under 12 years old, and RM85 for seniors over 65 years old. For special arrangements, guests who would rather host their own private dinner party or corporate event should speak with their staff directly. All costs are inclusive of all applicable taxes and service fees. Advance reservations are advised for visitors to prevent dissatisfaction.

Strategically located at Genting Permai, Geo Resort & Hotel offers 252 roomy hotel suites with breathtaking views of the magnificent highland view. The hotel offers two additional dining options, including Cabana Restaurant, an all-day dining option by the pool that celebrates regional and global culinary classics. The outdoor cafΓ©, CafΓ© dΓ© Geo, offers a cosy setting for an intimate family get-together while serving coffee, tea, drinks, and light snacks.

One with MP for Bentong, YB Puan Young Syefura Binti Othman

Please contact Geo Resort & Hotel via WhatsApp at +6019-236 7838, send an email to reservation@georesort.my, or visit the website at https://www.georesort.my/selera-kampung-d-geo/ for reservations for the buffet dinner or more information.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/georesortmy/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/georesortmy/

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Lifestyle, My Personal, Travel

Fascinated by the 13th Latin American Festival at the Commons KL at bbpark

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The 13th Latin American Festival which was jointly organized by the Group of Latin America and Caribbean Countries (GRULAC) embassies in Malaysia from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico and Peru, in collaboration with Plaza Low Yat, Federal Hotels International, The Federal Kuala Lumpur and Hotel Capitol Kuala Lumpur was successfully held on last Sunday 25 September 2022 in Commons KL @ bbpark, Bukit Bintang.

This event was supported by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur), KL Tourism Bureau, the Latin Ladies Association of Malaysia and the Malaysian Red Crescent.

“We hope that Malaysians, KLites, the local communities, expatriate communities as well as the domestic and international tourists visiting Kuala Lumpur, will be able to soak up the culture and offerings of our Latin American friends this year. Part of our tradition at the Latin American festival is the sales of raffle tickets and food and beverages for a noble cause.”

said Mr Darrell Choy, General Manager of Plaza Low Yat.

For A Noble Cause
Part of the tradition at the Latin American festival was the sales of raffle tickets and food and beverages for a noble cause. All proceeds this year were donated to the Malaysian Foundation for the Blind – a non-profit organization that was established to improve the lives of blind and partially-sighted people in Malaysia.

Some of the tenants at Plaza Low Yat sponsored the lucky draw prizes comprising of a gaming laptop and the latest IT gadgets. Lucky winners walked away with attractive lucky draw prizes that include the Grand Prize of a round trip Economy flight ticket to one of the following destinations: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba or Mexico, courtesy of Turkish Airlines to use it in 2023.

It is hoped that this event bridges the gap between both cultures as this event sees the opportunity to promote and showcase our Malaysian culture to the Latin American communities.

“This one-day event celebrates the diversity of culture, tastes and rhythms of Latin America and the Caribbean, a great opportunity for all to experience the rich culture, handmade arts & crafts, traditional music & dance, as well as enjoy delicious culinary taste and flavours of each of these seven vibrant Latin America and Caribbean Countries from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico and Peru. The rhythms and music will take you on a journey through the myriad sounds and beats of Latin music.”

said Ms Ooi Lee Ping, Director of Group Marketing, Sales & Business Development and Operations of Federal Hotels International.

Full of Vibrant Colours and Pulsating Vibes
The 13th Latin American spiced up Bukit Bintang and Kuala Lumpur City once again with its magical display of vibrant colours and pulsating vibes of Latin American music and rhythms, dances be it Salsa, Samba or Tango, art & craft as well as handicraft from the Continent, which was a great way to further strengthen the friendship & cultural exchange between Malaysia and the Latin American & Caribbean Countries.

Through this festival, we also witnessed the colourful diversity of our rich Malaysian culture and heritage with the expatriate communities as well as tourists. We all know that Bukit Bintang has always been the popular tourist hotspot in Kuala Lumpur.

Spread A Little Kindness
This was definitely another memorable experience to enjoy the rich culture and an authentic taste of Latin American gastronomic delights, a celebration of life, arts, food, music, dance, culture and heritage, whilst at the same time spreading a little spirit of cheer and kindness as proceeds from this festival were channelled to Charity namely Yayasan Orang Buta Malaysia (YOBM). This meaningful Charity event was one of FHI Group’s continuous Sharing & Caring Community Commitments.

It was my pleasure to be able to witness the beautiful and colourful event on that day. I really enjoyed myself there and learning a little bit more about the culture and heritage of the Latin American community.

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My Personal, Travel

Glamping in GLAMZ at Genting

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Our family went to the popular glamping spot – GLAMZ at Genting. It is located in a rural forested area along Jalan Meranti in Genting. It is approximately about 15 minutes from Genting Premium Outlet and 30 minutes from Genting Highlands Theme Park.

First of all, do you know what is glamping? Legend has it that it is Glamourous Camping. Hehe!

We booked ourselves two Dome Rooms (with Big Window), side by side. The rooms are equipped with an attached toilet, air conditioner (those portable type), fan, hammock, beanbag, electric sockets, mineral water, table and chairs. Hot water is available at the main lobby. Most of the time, we had our family activities together in one dome. We brought some self-heat hotpots for dinner. However, there are other options like pre-booking their steamboat or BBQ facilities. (No cooking is allowed in the dome). Food delivery services like GrabFood and McD Delivery are available too!

As we wanted to celebrate September babies’ birthday, we also ordered McDonald’s McCafe food delivery! Kesian the abang rider, had to send our cakes and fried chicken all the way from Genting Sempah. Thank you, abang rider!

Breakfast was quite good. We can choose between fried mee hoon and assorted dim sums. Other than the mains, we were served with a variety of breakfast spread, like half-boiled eggs, toasts, cereal, coffee, tea and orange juice.

The facilities there are quite interesting too. There is a public jacuzzi, steam room, BBQ pits, board games, toys and ball games for kids and etc. At night, it was breezy and cool. Best place for stargazing. Very suitable for family, groups of friends and even couples. For those who love #OOTD shots, everywhere so lit and on-point!

Basically this is a pretty interesting place for a short staycation with loved ones and friends. Many asked me how much the room rate? It was RM670 for our two Dome Rooms (with Big Windows). However, the price varies on different dates.

For more information and room rate of GLAMZ at Genting, check out:
Website: https://glamz.com.my/index
IG: https://www.instagram.com/glamzspace/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/glamzspace/

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