Sports+Travel Singapore

MICA (P) 039/03/2012

Langmusi, Sichuan Š Shangrila Adventure

JUL-AUG 2012

ISSUE 46 Journeys Issue INCLUDES extra: Japan Special

China | India | Thailand plus: South Australia

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Getting Around

02

It’s summertime, so hit the road and have a well-deserved mid-year break! Long journeys are great this time of year, as summer deals can be had in many places.

As this is the season of school holidays, you’ll likely want to find a touring destination that’s far from the madding crowd. This issue, we’re featuring a wide variety of journeys, whether you’re into wildlife, culture or simply cruising along a river.

For wildlife and nature, you can explore Thailand’s mountainous Khao Yai National Park along its myriad trails. For an alternative highland exploration, head to southern India’s Western Ghats which straddle the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Here, you can hike the tea trails , visit wildlife reserves and drop in on a hill station to soak in the cool air. Both Khao Yai and the Western Ghats are World Heritage listed biohotspots.

For those looking to move at your own pace along well-travelled routes, head to Taiwan’s northeast and tackle a selfdrive that takes in its coastal cliffs, dramatic gorges and high mountain roads, dropping in on hot spring resorts along the way. If you prefer to use the waterway instead, Sarawak’s Rajang River may be just your thing. From the town of Sibu, hop onto an express boat and explore the riverside towns that were once home to fierce headhunters – today, you can visit some of these longhouses and see how they live.

For a cultural journey, take a tour around western Sichuan and see a part of China that is home to Tibetan Buddhists, picturesque peaks with high-altitude passes, rolling grasslands and nomadic tribes.

In this bumper issue, we’re also featuring Japan in its own 36-page special! Explore mountain treks, cultural gems, summer activities and more in the land of the rising sun. We’re also featuring a 16-page South Australia special, for those of you looking for a relaxing holiday.

Until then, Happy Trails!

Our Team Editor-in-Chief May Lynn Writer Konrad Clapp Creative Director Lynn Ooi Designer Marilyn Wong General Manager Aaron Stewart

Media Rep Lennox & Ooi Media Pte Ltd 242A River Valley Road Singapore 238299 Tel 6732 0325 www.sportsandtravelonline.com sportsntravel@gmail.com Sports and Travel Limited Room 1801 Wing Onn Central Building 26 Des Veoux Road Central Hong Kong 261801 Tel +852 2150 1965 cng@sportsandtravel.com.hk

Advertising Sales Singapore Aaron Stewart, Lennox & Ooi Media aaron.stewart@sportsandtravelonline.com

Hong Kong Chris Ng cng@sportsandtravel.com.hk

Contributors Alvin Low, Ken Berg, Nishant Store

Special Thanks Shangrila Adventure and many, many others!

RUN FOR CHARITY: FROST THE TRAIL For any trail runners out there, don’t forget to check out Frost the Trail 2012, on 25 August at MacRitchie Reservoir Park. There are 5km team (4 pax, S$500) and 10km (S$125) individual runs with proceeds going to the Bright Hill Evergreen Home. For more information check out www.frost.com/frost-the-trail.

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IMAGES FROM Tourism Authority Thailand

While Thailand itself is home to over 100 national parks (including 21 marine reserves), one park – Khao Yai – stands out among all the rest in the minds of travellers and scientists alike as the country’s premier nature reserve.

Encompassing seven major ecosystems ranging from lowland savannah to evergreen rainforest and steep mountain slopes, Khao Yai is home to more than 3,000 species, including some of the world’s most endangered birds, primates and tigers.

Stretching over 2,100sq.km., Khao Yai’s singular importance to global conservation as one of the largest intact forests in Asia was even further underlined in 2005 when it was given UNESCO status as part of the trans-national Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex.

THAILAND’S KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK

DONG PHAYAYEN-KHAO YAI FOREST COMPLEX

KHAO YAI

The UNESCO-listed Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai is a trans-national conservation initiative encompassing segments of 4 different parks over an area of 230sq.km., connecting Khao Yai National Park, with Cambodia’s Ta Phraya National Park.

Situated just 2 hours’ drive from Bangkok (120km), the park is the eco centrepiece of Thailand’s vast northeastern region of Isan.

The complex forms a critical green corridor that’s home to over 800 different animal species, dozens of which are endangered including the Asian elephant, wild banteng, primates like the Pileated Gibbon and predators like the clouded leopard and tiger.

Covering an immense area of 160,000sq.km., across 20 different provinces, Isan comprises Thailand’s most remote region. Historically, Isan’s been largely cut off from the rest of the country by numerous mountain ranges in the west, while in the east its border with the mighty Mekong River has given it close historic and cultural links with neighbouring Laotian tribes – a fact that is reflected in its local Laoinfluenced language, festivals and food.

Founded in 1962, Khao Yai is Thailand’s first national park, and remains one of Asia’s most diverse ecosystems. The park is home to a huge range of species, including primates like gibbon and macaque, wild boar and deer, large herbivores like gaur and buffalo, omnivores like sun bear and black bear, over 200 types of birds including massive hornbills, and even a small number of highly elusive tigers (among the park’s 19 vulnerable and 5 endangered species) which are largely observed only through their pug marks.

Elephants Khao Yai is also home to a large number of Asian elephants (pop. 250), and is one of the best places in the region to encounter these gentle giants. Foraging across the park’s lowland savannah and hillsides, they eat an average of 300kg/day of bamboo, rattan and fruiting plants, meaning they’re constantly on the move, and often seen solo or in family herds by jeep safari groups crossing Khao Yai’s various trails.

Khao Luk Chang “Bat Cave” One of Khao Yai’s most popular attractions is the “Bat Cave”, located several kilometres inside the north entrance of the park. Most groups arrive an hour before sunset as roughly 1 million bats prepare to leave the cave en masse.

As they foray in search of insects and fruit, the bats themselves are prey for the park’s resident raptors like Crested goshawks and sparrowhawks, who put on an aerial display, dive-bombing through the thick clouds of bats.

GETTING AROUND Widely regarded as one of, if not the best wildlife park in the region, Khao Yai can either be explored via organised tour, by private car or better still on foot, with or without a guide.

Popular Hikes Thanks to its heavy rainfall and mountainous terrain, Khao Yai has dozens of picturesque waterfalls. Many of these are easily accessible, from the park’s warren of 50+ hiking trails with one of the most popular being the 8km hike from Kong Kaew Falls to Huai Sa Falls, conveniently starting from just behind the park headquarters.

Other popular treks include to nearby clusters of waterfalls further south, including Manao to Tat Takhongh falls, and Pha Krajay to Pha Chomphu falls.

Motorised Transport If time is of the essence, it is preferable to either hire a guide (with vehicle) or rent a motorcycle or car in Pak Chong to get around the park – with a vehicle giving you far better access to many of the best (and remotest) trails via the park’s sole, 60km long thruroad.

Thailand

WILDLIFE AT KHAO YAI

05

Another popular trek is from Haeo Suwat Falls (made famous by the movie The Beach) to Thung Ya Khao. It’s a rewarding trek along the Lamta Kong River, but despite being just 3km it requires a guide due to the difficult terrain.

GETTING THERE Geographically close to the capital, but separated from the rest of Thailand by the soaring Dongrek and Phetchabun ranges, Khao Yai is both a convenient short-break from bustling Bangkok as well as an ideal starting-point for longer journeys through Thailand’s remote Northeast.

Situated in far western Isan, Khao Yai is easily accessible from Bangkok (120km) with good road and rail connections to the nearest major town, Pak Chong (23km), although there are infrequent public bus services into the main entrance from here.

There are 2 entrances to park - via Pak Chong or Prachinburi - with park admission at 400baht per person.

For more information on trips to Thailand including famous Khao Yai National Park, visit www.tourismthailand.org/sg

Khao Yai is open year-round, with most Bangkokbased operators running short 2-3 day return-trips into the park from 12,000-15,000baht per person. At just over 2 hours’ drive from the capital, these typically allow for ample time on the ground, as well as the daily Khao Yai Night Safari.

Accommodation is also available both on the way in, and within the park itself, meaning there’s no shortage of options at various price ranges.

WHEN TO GO Ranging in altitude from 200m to 1,350m, the park is a favourite spot for Bangkok residents with its cool weather, where nights can drop below 10ºC and daytime temps in the mid-20s.

Khao Yai is most popular during its coolest months from November to February, while things heat up significantly from March to May, with many of its famous waterfalls drying up by late April, before cooling back off during the wet season (Jun-Sep).

GEAR GUIDE

KING OF THE MOUNTAIN From fast Alpine-style climbs to long-haul trips or full-day backcountry ski tours, the Marmot Ares Down Jacket is ultra lightweight and versatile. Made from 800-fill goose down, it’s an easy addition to your kit without adding weight or bulk as a solo piece for colder conditions or an ideal midlayer for extreme-cold conditions. Sporting down-proof fabric, there’s no shedding loose feathers, while handwarmers and elastic hems keep out the cold. Available from Campers’ Corner at S$280.

ICE ICE BABY Beat the heat with Columbia’s Omni-Freeze Ice, a fabric that lowers its temperature when it reacts with your perspiration. The baselayers, which come in gender-specific cutting, can be layered under a light jacket or worn on their own when you hit the gym. Strategically placed mesh panels keep you cool, while the sleek, no-stitch finish in high chaff zones means you won’t feel a thing – even after spending hours outdoors. The Omni Freeze Ice Collection is available at all Columbia Stores (MBS and Velocity @ Novena Square), selected World of Sports and World of Outdoors outlets, retailing at S$79.90.

Marmot Ares Down Jacket

Columbia Omni-Freeze Ice

PACK BUDDY

MOZZIE OFF There are many forms of mosquito protection out there, from Permethrinembedded clothing to DEET sprays.

The Para'Kito is a simple wristband with a pellet. You can wear it on your wrist or ankle, and the pellet slowly releases a blend of essential oils (which are extracted from plants) that mask human presence to mosquitoes. Product efficacy differs with each individual, and the waterproof, replaceable pellets are effective for 15 days. Wristbands (with 2 pellets) are available at 44 outlets in Singapore from S$26.50, while the 2-pellet pack retails at S$14.90.

The Mammut Creon Pro backpack’s innovative suspension system provides support and ventilation for both long hikes and lightweight backpacking trips. The backpack has lots of features, including side zip access to the main compartment, a removable bottom compartment, 4 extra pockets and 2 attachments for ice axes. At a reasonably light weight to carry, it is also compatible with a hydration system, making it ideal for long walks or hikes. Now available at Adventure 21 at S$309 (38L) and S$319 (45L).

Para’Kito

Mammut Creon Pro

LIGHT SLEEPER The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite mattress features the next generation of NeoAir technology that delivers ultralight support for gram-counting backpackers, warmth and comfort. The streamlined shape and advanced fabrics are almost 15% lighter than the original, while the internal truss system minimises shifting while you sleep. Year-round warmth is provided by the padding (which incorporates a welded-nylon grid of chambers) and the internal cells that trap warm air and return the heat to your body. The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad includes a stuff sack and repair kit, and is available at Outdoor Life, retailing at S$310.

KEEN Voyageur Mid

07 COOL BOOTS

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite

KEEN's Voyageur Mid is a hiking shoe that's stripped of its waterproof barrier in favour of mesh lining to allow for more ventilation for warm days.

The outsoles wrap up and over the toes providing patented toe protection, while the removable metatomical footbed provides excellent arch support to cradle the natural contours of the foot. The aggressive outsole has 4mm lugs to bite into the terrain, and the ESS shank provides torsional stability while the heel support structure is engineered to support the foot on impact, reducing your odds of a twisted ankle. The Voyageur Mid generally fits about a 1/2 size small, and retails at S$209 at selected World of Outdoors and World of Sports.

India

09 India is a vast country, covering more than 3 million sq.km., and boasting a huge diversity of cultures, ecosystems, species and terrain, from the deserts of Rajasthan and Gujarat in the west, to the lush Sundarbans in the east, and the towering Himalayas stretching from Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh in the north.

And while each region of the country offers distinctly different experiences, South India encompasses lush green landscape, mountains, sandy beaches, ancient temples and is home to a wide variety of wildlife.

SOUTH INDIA: WESTERN GHATS SOUTHERN INDIA Consisting of nine major states, South India feels dramatically different from its northern neighbours. With a history dating back over 3,000 years, the region's long been known through its extensive trade relations with both East and West, the legacy of which is still visible in places like Kochi (Kerala) and Pondicherry.

As the predominant culture is Dravidianbased, one major difference with the North is the spoken languages, which include Tamil and Malayalam - meaning English is generally better understood than Hindi.

For visitors, the most obviously striking difference is the South's profusion of Hindu temples with their ornate gopurams perched on every entrance. These stepped, steeply rising pyramids are carved with layer upon layer of detailed painted statues.

Tamil Nadu and Kerala For those with limited time to explore all the southern states, a trip to Tamil Nadu and Kerala encompasses many of the region’s best highlights, from ancient temple architecture to scenic hill stations.

While Tamil Nadu is probably best known for its 25,000+ historic temples and ruins, many dating back thousands of years, it's also dotted with hill stations, colonial outposts and great air and road connectivity, making it an ideal base to start a larger South India trip from.

Neighbouring Kerala’s most famous attraction is undoubtedly its extensive backwaters, which gives travellers easy access to rural communities from the decks of their kettuvallam houseboats. Further inland it’s mountainous terrain is dotted with wildlife reserves and rolling tea plantations.

The Western Ghats While Tamil Nadu and Kerala each offer something distinctly different, they also share some of South India's greatest destinations in the soaring Western Ghats – a mountainous ridgen that give rise to many important rivers and is home to hill stations, tea plantations and rolling mountains.

One of the “Top Ten Hottest Biodiversity Spots” in the world, this newly-listed UNESCO site is home to over 3,000 species, dozens of which are endemic and 325 of which are endangered.

Many places of interest along the Western Ghats straddle the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border, giving you a viable option to visit many of the states' better known attractions, including the hill stations of Ooty, Kodaikanal and Munnar, as well as Periyar National Park, all in a single trip.

WILDLIFE WATCHING: PERIYAR Covering 770sq.km., Periyar’s diverse terrain includes some of South India’s bestpreserved sholas (evergreen jungle), steep hills and a flooded forest reservoir created by the British in 1895.

Besides being one of India’s 27 Project Tiger parks, Periyar’s also known as one of the world’s best elephant reserves. Congregating around Lake Periyar, sightings of large family herds or solo male tuskers are commonplace, while the surrounding marshland makes an ideal habitat for more than 320 varieties of birds, from cormorants and kingfishers, to the huge Greater Hornbill.

People Power Periyar’s focus on win-win eco-strategies with local villagers has resulted in the successful implementation of 22 different community initiatives in cooperation with the local Manans and Oralis tribes. These include managing sustainable fishing and traditional forestry, as well as rehabilitating former poachers as rangers and guides.

A good way to explore Periyar is along a guided forest hike (accompanied by rangers), ranging from short day-trips to night treks for tiger patrol.

Lake Periyar is an ideal wildlife-spotting location, where you can board scheduled lake cruises. Chances of spotting wildlife sightings are better especially late in the season (March-April), when vegetation dries up prior to the monsoon and large herbivores like elephant and gaur come down to the lake to drink and bathe.

For more in India, visit www.incredibleindia.org.

Ooty COIMBATORE

KERALA

TAMIL NADU

Kodaikanal KOCHI

Munnar

Periyar

TEA AND HIKES: MUNNAR Overlooking the Deccan Plateau, Munnar and its surrounding mountains are home to some of the highest tea estates in the world, as well as some of the best hikes in Southern India. Escaping the lowland heat, nearby Eravikulam National Park has several major trails, criss-crossing high-altitude meadows, past waterfalls and ridgelines over 2,000m, where sightings of the rare Nilgiri tahr bounding across cliff faces are common.

Trekkers will find a multitude of hiking options along the undulating Western Ghats from Munnar. South India's highest peak – Anamudi (2,695m) – is located nearby, but access to it is prohibited. You can, however, climb the surrounding peaks like Messappulimala (2,650m), the second highest peak. These mountain trails sometimes yield sightings or

the Nilgiri Tahr as well as the occasional elephant.

Tea Trails As Munnar is tea country, expect to see rolling hills of tea bush, punctuated by picturesque lakes and waterfalls as you tour the area. You can take 4WD trips up to the world’s highest tea estate at Kolukkumalai, which is spread across 500 acres at elevations of up to 2,400m.

Perched at the junction of several major roads, Munnar is also an important eastwest access point, with the aptly named nearby town of Top Station marking the mountainous border between Kerala and Tamil Nadu and offering huge sweeping views of both states.

HERITAGE RAIL: OOTY South India’s most famous hill station, Odhagamandalam, or “Ooty”, is situated at 2,240m, and its cool mountain climate makes it unlike anywhere else in the state.

Ooty offers spectacular scenery and great trekking, as well as its historic toy train - a pint-sized, British era railroad that makes simply getting to Ooty half the fun. A journey up to Ooty on board the UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a like a journey back in time. It crosses 16 bridges and 250 tunnels over a winding 5-hour trip, as the original historic steam engines lumber up from Metupallayam 1,800m below.

There is a base camp at Parsons valley, from where you can start trekking to various points within the Western Ghats.

Supporting local guides With Ooty’s economic metamorphosis from tea country to tourism, the local Toda tribe have firmly established themselves as hiking guides. Already well-known for their characteristic half-tubular huts, they can organise local home stays and day treks up nearby Doddabetta Peak (2,623m), the highest point in the district.

While auto-rickshaws zoom around the bustling Charing Cross, the former British era commercial centre, just 1km out of town, Ooty gives way to rolling mountain and verdant meadows.

Beyond Ooty You can go for long walks and hikes around the tea and vegetable plantations in the area.

CHENNAI DELHI

INDIA

GETTING THERE Southern India has numerous international airports with regular connections to Singapore. The main gateway to the region is Chennai (Tamil Nadu), with plenty of airline options including Singapore Airlines, Jet Airways and SilkAir. However, to access the Western Ghats, it’s more convenient to fly direct to Kochi International Airport (Kerala).

ROCKY VIEWS: KODAIKANAL Much smaller than Ooty and more relaxed, Kodaikanal is situated on the crest of the Palani knolls. Surrounded by wooded slopes, waterfalls and precipitous rocky outcrops that you can easily hike to, the drive up and down the winding route is breathtaking.

Established in 1845, this is the only hill station set up by American missionaries, hence churches are abundant in Kodaikanal. These include the Church of South India, Union Church and Margaret Eddy Memorial Chapel at Kodai International School with services in a typical American style and distinctive stone architecture.

Walks and hikes Kodaikanal is a good base for hikes to the nearby attractions, including Coaker’s Walk,

a 1km paved trail with superb valley views where you may see a Brocken Spectre (you can see your shadow on the clouds with a rainbow halo).

Another popular hike is the 7km hike to the scenic Pillar Rocks, which is a set of three 122m-high giant rock pillars on the edge of a cliff. You can also hike 8km to Dolphin’s Nose, which is a flat rock projecting over a breathtaking chasm 2,000m deep, providing beautiful views of steep rocky escarpments rising from the plains.

The area is also dotted with pretty waterfalls that you can visit, including Bear Shola Falls (20 mins walk from town) and Silver Cascade (just along the road outside town).

The largest state in Malaysia, Sarawak is covered in thick jungle and mountains, where the majority of the population live near the coast or along rivers.

Even though it is part of Malaysia, Sarawak's mix of ethnicity is extremely diverse, with the largest ethnic group being the Iban, followed by Chinese and Malay. The rest of the populace is made up of over 20 other tribal groups, each with their own customs and rituals.

Sarawak's natural landscape is home to a host of flora and fauna, as well as interesting geology. For this reason, many areas are protected as national parks. Some of its most popular parks include Bako National Park (home to big-nosed Proboscis monkeys), Gunung Mulu National Park (home to some of the world's largest cave systems), Niah National Park (known for its archeological remains and historic cave paintings), as well as Batang Ai National Park (popular for longhouse visits).

As a large state, most populated towns and villages around the country's hinterland are linked not by road (thanks to the thick rainforest), but by the many rivers that slice through the landscape, providing essential links to the rest of the state, with the most important river in Sarawak being the mighty Rajang River.

RAJANG RIVER The Rajang River stretches for over 500km

SARAWAK’S RAJANG RIVER

from the Iran Mountains to the South China Sea, making it the longest river in Malaysia.

It penetrates deep into the state, and serves as a major link between the coast (where trade happens) and the jungle interior (where many tribal groups live).

The Sarawak hinterland is dotted by many small frontier towns and longhouses, many of which straddle the Rajang. These towns are inhabited mainly by the state's numerous tribes, including the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, Melanau and Penan.

This makes the Rejang River an ideal location to explore the country's cultural treasures, as well as its riverland ecology.

In addition, you can also explore the architectural vestiges of Rajah Brooke (the first 'White Rajah of Sarawak'), including Fort Emma in Kanowit and For Sylvia in Kapit.

There are 3 major towns along the river: Sibu (Sarawak's second largest city), Kapit (the

main town in the hinterland) and Belaga (a small town upriver). From these settlements, you can easily access the country's interior via the many speedboats that ply the river.

TRIBES AND LONGHOUSES One of the biggest draws to visiting Sarawak is experiencing its tribal culture. Borneo has long been known its headhunting history, which was practised by the larger tribal groups like the Iban, Orang Ulu and Bidayuh.

Once fierce headhunters, these people believed in the magical powers that emanated from severed heads, so it became an important rite of passage and source of honour for young men. The practice has since been outlawed and these days, the tribes have become peaceful farmers.

That said, many of the older longhouses still proudly display the skulls of their conquests, which are often roped together and hung near the entrance for all to see.

As there are over 4,500 longhouses in Sarawak, there are also plenty of authentic old-fashioned longhouses not far from the river if you know where to look.

If you're pressed for time, you can visit the authentic longhouses at Bawang Assan, about an hour by boat or road from Sibu.

There are 9 longhouses ranging from those dating from the 18th century to a modern incarnation, so you can see an evolution of its architecture.

There are a few specialist operators who can take you to some longhouses deep in Sarawak's interior, many of which can only be reached via trekking through the jungle.

The area around Kapit, midway down the Rajang River, is a popular gateway for longhouse visits, as many of these still retain their original structure and material.

Those who spend more than one night at these longhouses will get to experience how the local Iban or Orang Ulu people live first hand. Not only can you spend the night at the longhouse with the family – you'll sleep on floor mats and share amenities – but you can also visit rice fields and pepper gardens, or learn to cook Iban style by gathering

ALONG THE RIVER The Rajang links several important towns in the hinterland, some of which are good bases from which to explore the rainforest as well as nearby longhouses.

The best way to get to these towns is by speedboat – express boats are the lifeline for those living near the Rajang, as few roads penetrate the dense forest. From the express boats, you get a glimpse of villages, towns and even longhouses along the way.

Luxury colonial river steamer The Pandaw also operates along the Rajang, calling in at towns like Kanowit and Kapit for longhouse visits and short jungle treks along the way.

From the main town of Sibu, there are numerous options for express boats to towns

food from the rainforest.

In the evenings, the ruai (the main gallery of an Iban longhouse) comes alive and visitors will be entertained with traditional music and dance, and share a glass of tuak (rice wine) with the village elder.

A good time to visit is during the Gawai Dayak festival (June 1), one of Sarawak’s largest festivals marking the end of the rice harvest festival and is an important symbol of unity for all the 26 major tribes in the state.

Malaysia

Visiting a longhouse The best way to experience the tribal culture is by visiting a longhouse, whether it's for a day trip or multi-night excursion. While plenty of tribal longhouses line the Rajang River, many of these are quasi-modern in their construction – concrete walls replace wooden ones, and satellite dishes are standard in most households.

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like Kapit and Belaga, calling at smaller towns like Song and Kanowit along the way. The journey from Sibu to Kapit takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on the number of stops, and from Kapit, there are onward boats to Belaga.

Pelagus Rapids From Kapit, you can transfer onto a small longboat and tackle the churning Pelagus Rapids. This picturesque part of the river has numerous small islands, reefs and shoals, while the surrounding rainforest is rich in flora and fauna.

Depending on the level of water in this section, the river is impassable to certain vessels, and you can see a number of abandoned boats that were victims of the river tides.

JUNGLE TREKKING

WILDLIFE SPOTTING

There are a multitude of trails to trek, ranging from short hour-long hikes to longer trails requiring the aid of a guide, as some of them are unmaintained and overgrown.

Over 120 species of birds have been recorded here, ranging from tiny Spiderhunters to large eagles, as well as different types of Hornbills (many of which are protected).

Many of the trails are easily accessible from the Rajang, and the terrain is mainly hilly, with trails that cut through thick forests and cross jungle streams, so be prepared for mosquitoes and leeches.

Mammals like wild boars and deer can sometimes be seen in the jungle, along with rarer sightings of primates like gibbons, langurs, giant squirrels, slow loris and tarsier. In the river, dolphins and otters have also been spotted on occasion.

Depending on the guide or operator, trails may range from muddy tracks to those aided with bamboo boardwalks over difficult or wet sections of the path.

A trek into the jungle interior here would yield sightings of many bird species, in addition to a host of colourful insect life.

Having a local guide will help you identify some of the jungle's medicinal plants (some of which are used to counteract snake poison, among other things), and you can also try eating a live sago worm, which is considered a delicacy by the locals.

SARAWAK g jan Ra

Sibu Kanowit

KUCHING

Kapit

er Riv

Belaga

GETTING THERE The main access point to the Rajang River is the city of Sibu. There are direct daily flights from Kuching, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru to Sibu (via Malaysia Airlines or Air Asia).

From Sibu, the main speedboat terminus will take you to various towns along the river.

Taiwan

Day Lilies at Yangmingshan

15 Taiwan is well known for its high-altitude mountains and picturesque rocky coastlines. The best way to experience the country's scenic areas is along the coastal and mountain roads that crisscross this undulating landscape.

These roads lend themselves to amazing self-drives and – for the more ambitious and fit – cycling.

Aerial view of the Hualien coast

Driving along mountain roads

NORTH EASTERN TAIWAN ROAD TRIP THE SCENIC LOOP One of the best routes to explore both Taiwan's high-altitude mountains and rocky coastline is along a loop that takes you to the northern coast of Keelung and the scenic northeast coast, before heading further south towards the plains of Yilan, Hualien and the famous Taroko Gorge.

The road then meanders inland through the high-altitude chain of mountains, passing the East Rift Valley along some of the country's highest mountain roads before looping back to Taipei.

The loop takes in 4 major highways and traverses no less than four National Scenic Areas, which range from coastal to mountainous landscapes.

As a pure driving trip, the entire loop can be done in 3 days, with overnight stops around

Yilan and Hualien. However, to truly appreciate the surroundings and to stop for activities – like rock climbing at Longdong or hiking in Xueshan – a couple of nights at each stop is recommended.

STARTING FROM TAIPEI From Taipei, the most scenic way to get to the north coast is by cutting through Yangmingshan National Park (which is only accessible to vehicles on weekdays).

This undulating mountainous landscape is a hotbed of geothermal activity, which is evidenced by the plumes of sulphur. As such, there are a number of options for hot spring baths, ranging from free soaks at a public bath in Lengshuikeng to luxury spa resorts.

Yangmingshan is also famous for its network of well-maintained hiking trails, the most popular of which links Xiaoyukeng (which

features billowing fumaroles and steam vents) and Lengshuikeng (with its marshy lake), where you can soak in the public bath after a hike. The highest peak here is Mt. Cising (Seven Star Mountain), a popular hike that affords a sweeping 360º view of the entire park from the summit.

PRACTICALITIES The best place to start this picturesque road trip is Taipei. If you want to bypass the city's notoriously heavy traffic, you can also rent the car straight out of Taipei's Taoyuan Airport – most car rental companies can drop off and pick up the cars at the airport at no charge via email or phone.

There are no major international car rental brands here and average daily car rental rates are around NT2,400 per day.

NORTH COAST SCENIC AREA From Yangmingshan, the road drops you at the North Coast Scenic Area at Jinshan, a former gold mine town with scenic ocean views.

As a alternative route (or on weekends), you can drive to the coastal town of Danshui, which is a longer route to Jinshan.

The northern coast of Taiwan is a rocky landscape, dotted with fine sandy beaches (including Baishawan), hot springs and waterfalls. The drive time via the North Coast Scenic Area is longer to get to Jinshan, but

you can also get to experience the northern coast's burgeoning surf scene.

Thanks to the unforgiving wind and waves, the landscape has been carved into a strange but attractive geological wonderland.

From Jinshan, it's an easy access to Yeliu, a geological park with dramatically-sculpted granite and sandstone rocks that line the coast. Among the famous formations are the Queen's Head Rock (which is shaped like Queen Nefertiti's profile), Cinderella's Slipper as well as Earth and Elephant rocks.

Yeliu Geopark

Bitou Cape and Long Dong Fishing Harbour Š Matt Robertson

Scenery along the North Coast

NORTHEAST COAST SCENIC AREA For those with limited time, the fastest way to the northeast coast is via the seaside city of Keelung, which is famous for its nightly open-air market with over 200 seafood hawkers. From here, you can easily access the Northeast Coast Scenic Area directly.

The Northeast Coast Scenic Area is where the Pacific and East China Sea meet, and the area comprises a mixed terrain of rolling trails, excellent beaches, coastal hills and some of Asia's most dramatic coastal cliffs and rock formations. This is an area where you can do a bit of everything, from hiking to diving, rock climbing and cycling.

In many areas, the mountains seem to run into the sea, terminating abruptly in minuscule beaches at the foot of sheer cliffs. Pounded by the Pacific, the region has long been famous among surfers at places like Honeymoon Bay. The wind-and-sea-sculpted cliffs at Longdong is a burgeoning hotspot for rock climbing, while the waters around here are

popular for shore dives (nudibranchs are common).

Hikers can explore the area's churning blowholes and extinct lava vents along the Bitou Cape Trail, or tackle the 200-year old Caoling Historic Trail that takes you past historic landmarks and striking geology. You can also head to nearby Fulong to rent a bicycle and cycle through the Caoling Bikepath to explore the area's history.

Continuing along the coast, you'll hit the hot spring town of Jiaosi, which is a popular weekend getaway for Taipei dwellers. Here, you can enjoy a hot spring soak in the area's colourless and odourless spring water, or jump onboard a boat tour to nearby Turtle Island (March to November) for a spot of whale and dolphin watching.

South from Jiaosi is Yilan city, and just beyond that is Suao, which is known for its cold, carbonated natural spring (the only cold spring in Taiwan).

Jinshan Yeliu

KEELUNG TAIPEI

Bitou Cape Fulong

DRIVE TIMES:

Bitou Cape - Fulong: 25 mins Fulong - Jiaosi: 50 mins Jiaosi - Suao: 40 mins Suao - Hualien: 3 hrs YILAN Hualien - Wuling: 5 hrs Wuling - Yilan: 3 hrs Yilan - Taipei: 40 mins

Jiaosi

Suao

Xueshan Mountain Range

Wuling Farm Taroko Gorge

HUALIEN

MAP OF TAIWAN

TAROKO GORGE

After Suao, the road – sections of which were carved by hand – hugs the sheer cliffs as it twists and turns, making it one of the most dramatic and winding coastal roads in the world. It takes about 3 hours through this winding highway from Yilan to Hualien.

The road that cuts through this gorge is Highway #8 (Cross Island Highway) which was cut through by hand to provide access between Hualien in the east and Taichung in the west.

This East Coast Scenic Area is bounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Coastal Mountain Range, characterised by coastal terraces, pebble beaches, capes and sea caves. The area is also the primary homeland of the Amis aboriginal tribe, and if you're driving to Hualien in July and August, you can witness their harvest festival.

Spend a night in Hualien and explore its aboriginal history, or enjoy the sun and sea.

From Hualien it's a short drive to Taroko Gorge, arguably one of Taiwan's most famous landmarks.

Carved out of sheer rock, the road is overshadowed by dramatic 500m-high walls in most places, sliced through by the Liwu River. The gorge is dotted with stunning sights, including waterfalls, cliff-perched temples, manmade tunnels and geological landmarks. Famous portions include the Tunnel of Nine Turns (the narrowest point of the gorge that is now accessible only on foot or by bicycle), and the Swallow's Grotto (with limestone formations and cliffs).

You can also stop and explore the area on some of its excellent hiking trails, which range from the short Eternal Spring route (1.5km) to multiday treks. In season, you can opt for river tracing tours in the area.

Taroko Gorge to Taipei, so it's a good idea to break the journey with an overnight stop either in the gorge or somewhere in the mountains.

Taiwan

EAST COAST SCENIC AREA

17

Tunnel of Nine Turns at Taroko Gorge

Coastal Highway to Hualien

For more on Taiwan and places to explore on a self-drive, visit www.taiwan.net.tw.

Mountain Road along Hehuanshan

SEASONS In summer, it's a great time to head to the beaches for a swim or surf, and the mountains are a respite from the summer heat. However, it's worth checking beforehand about typhoons which can result in road closures.

Winter is the best time to enjoy hiking and hot spring soaks, so hot spring resort areas – like Yangmingshan and Jiaosi – can get fully booked over the weekends.

As with any self-drive, it is worth checking in advance about accessibility, as roads are prone to closure in any season.

the famous Wuling Farm (1,740m - 2,200m), once a fruit-growing area tended by retired soldiers. Now it's a starting point for those climbing to Xueshan (3,886m), or Snow Mountain, Taiwan's second highest peak.

EAST RIFT VALLEY SCENIC AREA Heading north from Taroko Gorge towards Yilan takes you through the mountainous East Rift Valley Scenic Area.

The highway takes you along some of Taiwan's highest motorable roads, and passes some of the tallest mountains in the country.

The road offers stunning vistas as it twists

and turns through the mountains and squeezes through numerous narrow single-lane tunnels. The high altitude roads (which can reach 3,700m) can easily fog over, so it is advisable to drive in daylight, as there are no street lights in the mountains.

Thanks to the cool climate, the area is also home to vegetable and fruit farms, including

The area is known as 'a land of milk and honey', and along the highway, you can see plenty of farms – apples, tea, vegetables – flanking the winding road as you drive through 4 major forest reserves along the way (Wuling, Cilan, Mingchin and Dongyan national forests).

The undulating road meanders its way down to the verdant plains at Yilan, from where you can connect to Taipei via the Xueshan Tunnel (Taiwan's longest tunnel).

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Advertorial No news isn't always good news. Just because you don't hear about travel mishaps and accidents, doesn't mean they're not going to potentially happen to you.

TRAVELLERS’ TALES Breaking Your Fall, Not Your Back

A Singaporean was recently learning to snowboard at a ski resort in Japan, and after days of lessons was finally ready to challenge the beginner slope on his own. He was doing fine, feeling cool, whizzing past other skiers, until halfway down, he unexpectedly hit an icy patch. He tried to slow down but was sent flying face first into the hard-packed snow doing what's known in the industry as a "face plant".

Luckily his shoulder broke his fall, saving his face, but dislocating his joint. Needless to say, that put an abrupt end to his snowboarding adventure. But at least with adequate travel insurance covering his cost of treatment, he could kick back and recuperate with hot sake and onsen for the rest of the week.

Losing It

You've just arrived in Barcelona for that longawaited holiday. And as you make your way to your hotel, you realise you've lost your smallest but most important baggage of all - your passport holder. Inside was your passport, your extra stash of cash, your travel insurance details and a mix of miscellaneous identification cards.

Didn’t think it could happen to you? Think again. That's what a seasoned traveller thought so too. He’d normally never make these kinds of amateur mistakes of not keeping a more observant eye over his belongings, but earlier this year, after a longhaul flight from Singapore – the time difference, and being preoccupied trying to navigate in a new city, it happened to him. It's easy to fall victim to pickpockets in a foreign city. It can happen to anyone. Luckily, he was covered by adequate travel insurance – which assisted him to replace his passport and travel documents quickly, plus reimbursement of the cost of replacement documents and stolen cash too!

Fit to Burst

Two best friends were taking a big vacation together through Indochina. Eating well.

Having a blast. Living like there's no tomorrow.

Which very nearly was the case when one awoke in terrible agony, thanks to a ruptured appendix.

Unlike a sprained ankle or a nagging cough, they instantly realised this wasn't the sort of medical condition that could wait a few days.

The friend needed immediate surgery, and was evacuated back home on the next available flight. Four days and almost S$40,000 later in emergency medical care and evacuation costs, the friends were able to laugh over their close call, thanks to having adequate travel insurance coverage.

Going Somewhere?

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Missed Train, Missed Plane

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Missing international trains can put your entire travel schedule out by a day or more. And it may be caused by a labour strike, train mechanical breakdown or bad weather which are all beyond your control.

In the case of one Singaporean couple last month – needing to reschedule their connecting flight home, all because of a delay that was caused by the mechanical breakdown of the train. At least with adequate travel insurance, it helped them defray some additional costs and provided some comfort for the delay.

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Litang Sertha

Sichuan province in China is most probably best known for giant pandas, spicy hot-pots, and other well-travelled tourist attractions such as Jiuzhaigou and Mt. Ermei. However, there are many hidden gems in the more remote destinations located in the western (Ganzi) and northern (Aba) parts of Sichuan.

Yarchen Monastery

This is a land of Khampa Tibetans, and was once an essential centre of Tibetan culture. A journey through this area takes you past rugged mountainous areas, beautiful lakes, snowy peaks and forests dotted with the last strongholds of Tibetan culture.

WESTERN SICHUAN TEXT AND PHOTOS

by Shangrila Adventure

CHENGDU TO LITANG From Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan, a westward journey takes you through the western highlands of the Qionglai mountain range to Kangding via ancient villages of Qiang and Tibetan minorities.

From here, you'll traverse several high mountain passes over 4,000m before reaching the historic town of Litang, one of the highest towns in China at 4,100m. Surrounded by a grassland plateau, this area was a key victory site of the Red Army during their Long March in 1934-1935.

Nestled between the Shaluli and Daxueshan mountain ranges, the key sight here is the Ganden Thubchen Choekhorling Monastery (founded in 1580 by the Yellow Hat sect),

from where you can get a sweeping panorama of Litang.

Those with an appetite for hiking can do a 3-4 day trek to Mt. Genyen from nearby Zhangna Tibetan village.

XINDUQIAO TO YADING En route to Yading is Xinduqiao, with its rustic Tibetan-styled houses, meandering streams and poplar trees.

Yading is renowned for its 3 sacred mountains (each named after a bodhisattva) which are located in Yading Nature Reserve. The 5,959m southern peak (Jambeyang) represents wisdom, while the eastern peak (Chanadorje) of the same height represents wrath, and the tallest peak, Chenrezig (6.032m), represents compassion.

XINLONG TO DEGE Xinlong marks the halfway point on the provincial road between Litang and Ganzi. This laid-back town is where you can experience the authentic Khampa Tibetan culture – the men still wear fur hats and equestrian attire armed with silver carved knives.

From here, you'll cross over the Picha Valley towards the vast and silent landscape of the Friendship Grassland.

As you head towards Dege, you can see the secluded Yarchen Monastery (Yaqing Si) along the way. The prominent feature of this monastery is the island-like living area of the nuns, which is separated from the mainland by a stream that runs through the area.

The last town in Sichuan before the highway crosses into Tibet, Derge is home to the world's largest Tibetan Buddhism sutra printing house. Located within Parkhang monastery, its huge collection of printing blocks are a treasure trove of Tibetan life.

En route to Ganzi, you will cross the 5,200mhigh pass of Mt. Chola, from where you can see huge mani rocks standing along the shores of the shimmering Yulong Lake (4,050m), or Xinluhai. This high-altitude lake is located at the base of Mt. Chola, and from winter to spring, its turquoise-blue colour forms a beautiful contrast with the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

SERTHA TO LANGMUSI Heading east, you'll hit the town of Sertha,

home of the Larung Wuming Buddhist school, with its striking cluster of red buildings set within a remote valley. The largest and most influential Buddhist school in the world, it is home to tens of thousands of lamas and nuns who live in small shoebox-sized wooden houses. You may get to attend some meditation sessions here.

Heading north, you'll hit the Ruoergai grassland (the second largest grassland in China) which is a habitat for a variety of rare animals like the pika and Himalayan marmot, as well as home to Tibetan nomads who herd yaks, horses and mountain sheep.

Further along the way is Langmusi, which straddles the two provinces of Sichuan and Gansu. Langmusi is made up of two key Tibetan monasteries; Dacang Nama (Kirti) on the Sichuan side, and the Dacang Langmu Mt. Genyen (Sertri) on the Gansu side, both of which are separated by the Bailong river.

Built in 1748, it is characterised

by Han Chinese, Tibetan and Hui (Muslim) architecture (there is also a mosque

Xinluhai

nearby). In its heyday, Langmusi housed over 500 monks, while today it has just over 130. musi is a great spot for photography, with its magnificent mountainous backdrop and prominent red roofed buildings surrounded by pine trees.

The second week of each New Year is important here, as several important festivals are held during this period, when devotees come from all around the region to circumambulate the monastery or mountain, throwing prayer papers (longda) high into the air to pray for good health.

China

DERGE TO GANZI

21

The celebration ends when the large thangka (a large Buddha image) is hoisted up the granite walls for everyone to make their offerings.

LANGMUSI TO CHENGDU The route returns to Chengdu via Maerkang, the capital of Aba prefecture, which was in important trade hub along the ancient tea and horse caravan route. A wide river cuts through town, and houses ascend along the slopes of the banks.

A short drive takes you past the Wenchuan area before you are greeted by the bright lights of Chengdu city.

Sun

Approx. 15 mins

Horizon

CHASING SUNSET When you’re in a foreign land, you may not know how many hours of sunlight you have left for you to enjoy whatever you’re doing. Here’s a simple trick to help you gauge your remaning sunlight hours:

WATER (N OT) EVERYW HERE

water, there are for survival. But if you’re out of We all know that water is essential re drinking): befo it fy puri to have still (you on other sources that you can rely s and mash Cacti: Cut off the top of a barrel cactu from it.

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AT SEA

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Rain: Catch rain in tarps or conta

IN THE DESERT

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ct in pools in Rocks: Periodic rainfall may colle g and siphon fissures of rock, so insert flexible tubin water.

KEEP THE BIKE MOVING When looking for a multi-tool make sure that you have a decent array of hex keys (Allen key). Most things on your bike will require either a 4, 5 or 6 mm hex key.

Check to see if your bike needs anything larger or smaller before deciding on what tool works best for you.

Beyond that you will also want to carry and

2. Stack one hand on top of the other from the horizon to the sun.

3. Each finger represents approximately 15 minutes. Each person's finger size varies, so for accurate results, do this at home with a watch to see if you have 10-, 15-, or 20-minute fingers.

IN THE JUNGLE/FOREST

Of course, this won’t work if you’re experiencing the midnight sun. Bear in mind that the sun moves the size of itself every 3 minutes.

tufts of grass, Dew: Droplets of water collect on ow with mead red cove dewa gh so walk throu s before sunrise, absorbent cloth around your ankle and wring the water out. is clear and Trees: Water from green bamboo and cut the odourless; to get water, bend a stalk t the night. top off. It will drip freely throughou cut the tree Banana trees also provide water; p out the centre down to a 30cm stump and scoo filled by water of it so that the hollow-shape will be from the roots.

TOURING Weight, size and durability are key to a comfortable ride. You simply don’t have the space to carry anything too large and the more your gear weighs, the slower and more difficult your trip will be. On the other hand if something breaks, chances are you won’t be able to get it fixed right away. In general, never compromise weight for durability.

1. Extend your arms before you and bend your wrists so your palms face you.

GEAR GUY: Ken Berg

Cycle touring is a great way to explore a foreign land. You can cover much more ground than hiking while being able to interact with others and truly enjoy the sights at a pace you are most comfortable with.

Ken grew up on the doorstep of the Canadian wilderness, backpacking, paddling and rock climbing in this rugged land. Armed with a degree in recreational studies, he has been working at Canada's premier outdoor retailer for the last 9 years, putting gear to the test whether it's cycling in -35ºC winters, running marathons or travelling to the far reaches of the planet.

know how to use a chain tool (find out how many turns it will take to push a pin out for your speed of bike or buy a tool that will stop before your pin is pushed all the way out). A personal favourite is the Crank Brothers Multi 17.

SHELTER Lightweight tents have come a long way in the last 7 years. Besides being lightweight, they typically have fantastic venting, making them quite comfortable in the heat but not great for cold weather. Bring some warm base layers if it looks like you might get caught in cool conditions. Also the floors are quite thin, so despite the extra weight you may want to consider a footprint. If

lightweight is your thing, then the Big Agnes Seedhouse series is a great option.

EYEWEAR Get polarized sunglasses. Spend a few extra dollars and get sunglasses with replaceable lenses and one polarized lens option.

Polarized lenses are great in high glare situations and if you are on a stretch where you are staring into the sun you’ll still need to see the road path or trail.

THAILAND NORTH The most mountainous region of Thailand, the northern region features plenty of scenic spots to drive and take in the landscape, or go for hikes into the cool evergreen, pine and deciduous forests. Head to Chiang Rai's Golden Triangle (for a view of three countries along a few trails) and Uttaradit's rolling Phu Sai Dao National Park on the border to Laos, which once sheltered various rebel groups. These days, hiking trails and camping grounds dot the 200 sq.km. park. Along the way, you can enjoy backpacker atmosphere at Mae Hong Son and drop in on a few historic religious sites at Lamphun, Phayao and Nan.

Spread over 77 provinces across 514,000 sq.km., Thailand has far more to offer than just the usual well-known destinations like Phuket, Chiang Mai and Ko Samui.

Here are some of the places that few locals go to, and far less tourists frequent.

NORTHEAST The northeast portion of the country is dotted with lots of archaeological sites, both manmade and natural. Millennia-old Khmer ruins can be found at Phanom Rung Historical Park (situated at the edge of a 400m high volcano), Phimai Historical Park (which is often compared to Angkor Wat) and Khao Phra Wihan National Park (near the border to Cambodia).

In Kaladin, you can check out their large collection of dinosaur bones at the Phu Kum Khao Dinosaur Excavation Site. In between the sites, you can enjoy a great hike in the region's lush wildlife sanctuaries, like those in Bueng Kan (which feature stone pools filled with lotus), Loei and Chaiyaphum. Š Benh Liew Song

CENTRAL

WEST Set in Kanchanaburi province, the famous Bridge over the River Kwai was built between 1942-43 at the cost of over 100,000 lives to move supplies between Thailand and Myanmar. Here you can visit WWII memorials, including a war graveyard, historical park and the famous bridge itself.

BANGKOK

Dotted with many historic sites, the central region of Thailand is a testament to the country's deep-rooted history.

Some of the most famous spots include the UNESCO sites of Sukhothai (Thailand's ancient capital with some of the best preserved temples dating back to the 13th century), Ayutthaya (with dozens of ancient sites dating from the 14th century) and Kamphaeng Phet (with several ruins set in the jungle). For unique experiences, visit Lopburi's ancient temples which are home to the annual monkey buffet, as well as the 1.5km long Tham Lot cave at Phitsanulok, which is filled with 1,000year old coffins.

SOUTH For most visitors, the main drawcard of the south is definitely its many islands and beaches.

While places like Ko Samui, Phuket and Similan Islands attract a large crowd, you can head to places like Phattalung (as an alternative rock climbing location) and Satun (for island hopping).

GETTING AROUND There are several domestic carriers that offer daily flights from Bangkok to most of the country.

In addition, it's relatively easy to get around via rail and road via self-drives or buses.

Penang Marathon

IMAGES FROM Penang State Tourism

This year’s annual Penang Bridge International Marathon (P.B.I.M.) on 18 November, 2012, will mark the 28th installment of Malaysia’s biggest road race.

Crossing the famous 13.5km-long Penang Bridge – which was the thirdlongest bridge in the world when it was built – the PBIM attracted 27,500 runners in 2011, and will likely hit a record 30,000 runners this year.

ABOUT THE RACE Race categories include Full-Marathon (Men’s, Women’s and Men’s Veteran), HalfMarathon (Men’s, Women’s, Men’s Veteran and Women’s Veteran), 10km Open (Men’s and Women’s), 10km Junior (Student Boy’s and Girl’s) and a 10km Fun Run. There are prizes for the top finishers in each category as well as the fastest Malaysian runners, with RM15,000 for the Men’s Open winner.

Beginning when the temperature is still relatively low (25ºC), the full marathon kicks off at 2am, with a 7-hour cut-off, while the half starts at 3am with a 3.5-hour cut-off. The

10km race starts at 6am and the Fun Run starts at 7am both with a 1.5-hour cut-offs.

The top Men’s and Women’s finishes in 2011 went to Kenyans Charles Kigen (2:21:56) and Margaret Njuguna (3:06:38).

JOINING THE RACE All entrants must pre-register before race day with normal and late registration fees for the PBIM from RM80/RM90 (fullmarathon), RM60/RM80 (half-marathon), RM40/RM50 (10km), RM20/RM30 (Fun Run); Normal registration is 1 June - 15 September, while late registration closes on 15 October.

For more information visit www.penangmarathon.gov.my.

Last Call for The Penang Bridge For anyone who previously wanted to run the historic bridge but hadn’t, this year will be the last chance. As of 2013, with the completion of the new Penang Second Bridge (23.4km), the PBIM will shift routes to the island’s longer, 2nd link meaning 2012 is the final opportunity to run one of Malaysia’s most iconic structures.

MORE THAN A MARATHON Apart from its beaches and famous local foods like laksa, Penang’s wellpreserved pre-war architecture means there’s no shortage of post-race activities for culture vultures. Having been awarded UNESCO status in 2008 for its outstanding global cultural value, Penang’s historic heart of George Town is home to South East Asia’s largest number of intact pre-WWII colonial buildings, including hundreds of historically significant structures such as the famous E&O Hotel, local tycoon Cheong Fatt Tze’s “Blue Mansion” and entire neighbourhoods like Little India and the former Japanese Quarter around Kampung Malabar.

Fairly compact, George Town can be easily explored on foot or by trishaw, with one of the best options being the Penang Heritage Trust’s daily tours (from RM60/person), through the historic neighbourhoods of Chulia Street and Little India.

GETTING THERE Penang is extremely well-serviced with over 75 direct flights per week from Singapore from carriers like Air Asia, Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines.

For more information on Penang visit www.visitpenang.gov.my.