The Travel Times - 2011 March - MATTA Fair

TRAVEL TIMES THE

THE TRAVEL TIMES • MARCH 2011 Travel times chairman & acknowledgement-page.pdf

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Great Australian Road Trips p10

India Discovering Kerala p12

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PUBLISHER • CECILIA WOO MANAGING EDITOR • BEN POON

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THE TRAVEL TIMES Travel times chairman & acknowledgement-page.pdf

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Is Travelling Without Insurance Worth The Risk? were covered under Travel Guard travel insurance policy.

The insurance company provided coverage for the medical care, evacuation and repatriation of victims of the bus crash.

Whilst travel insurance can never prevent such tragedies from taking place, it does assist in removing a significant part of the additional financial burden of having to arrange and bear for the cost of emergency medical evacuation.

Imagine what would happen if you are stranded on your holiday island during a medical emergency. You might need an ambulance or helicopter to transport you to immediate care or enough money to block a few seats on a commercial airline for medical equipment and an attendant to care for you.

Travel insurance also reimburses your medical expenses if you were to seek treatment or be hospitalised. Medical bills can be extremely costly overseas. Besides medical emergencies you can be reimbursed if you have to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances specified in the insurance policy, for example if you or your immediate family member is hospitalised. The same coverage applies if you have to return home early due to specified reasons.

So don’t be surprised as despite all these benefits, travel insurance is not as expensive as your think. Be smart and be sure to include travel insurance as part of your travel budget.

O

ften when planning your dream holiday insurance is the last thing on your mind because not many of us want to admit or even consider that things could go frightfully wrong and plans could go awry.

However consider this, what could possibly be so bad about expecting the unexpected and having contingency plans. Purchasing travel insurance isn’t as daunting as you think and it could literally save you and your family from financial ruin.

Get Travel Guard, Travel Assist from as low as RM30 from our registered Travel Agents/General Agents.

Insurance coverage is provided by Chartis Malaysia Insurance Berhad, formerly known as AIG General Insurance (Malaysia) Berhad.

According to a spokesperson from Malaysian Association of Travel and Tour Agents (MATTA), not many Malaysians purchase insurance protection when travelling because they mistakenly assume that their existing long term insurance policies will protect them when they are overseas. In fact, these policies often fall short of coverage provided by the travel insurance benefits.

Why do you need insurance when travelling?

One of the more important rules of travelling safely is to expect the unexpected. Imagine if you were to lose your travel documents, or need to pay for costly medical bills if you meet with an accident overseas or even if you lose your luggage or are forced to return home early or cancel your flight due to unforseen circumstances. What is supposed to be a relaxing time can turn out to be a stressful one if you are not protected by travel insurance.

Travel insurance provides related coverage even when you are miles away from home. Those which offer additional services such as 24 hour emergency assistance will come in useful if you are overseas and need local information such as the nearest hospital in case of accident, embassy contact in the event that you lose your travel document or if you need emergency medical evacuation and repatriation which can be costly.

One real life example of how travel insurance saved the day is the 2006 bus crash in China. Amongst the travellers 11 of the 17 Malaysian tourists involved in the accident

Your passport to a 24-hours comprehensive travel protection worldwide

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Hong Kong Disneyland: Celebration In The Air From float development to costume design, no expense was spared in creating the Flights of Fantasy Parade

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is celebrating its 5th anniversary with guests as it kicks off the year-long ‘Celebration in the Air’.

The cast of Toy Story join in the parade

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ong Kong Disneyland is celebrating its 5th year anniversary and the magic is being amplified as Sorcerer Mickey conjures up all new levels of excitement. With a little help from Tinker Bell, the magic of Hong Kong Disneyland will take to new heights as together they shower the resort with pixie dust.

Once every five years brings a celebration of this scale. You won’t believe your eyes as new possibilities and boundless dreams will come true. Be amazed as you witness the gravity-defying, aerial spectacular that is the Flights of Fantasy Parade and each evening, be dazzled as Tinker Bell showers Sleeping Beauty Castle with pixie dust. There’s Celebration in the Air during Hong Kong Disneyland’s 5th Year Anniversary, come and experience the magic.

STAR GUEST PROGRAM 2011 There is no better time to express your deepest appreciation and gratitude to the people special to you - your VIP, with the Star Guest Program at Hong Kong Disneyland, from March 11 – May 22.

Upon arrival, pick up the Star Recognition Pack for your VIP, which is only available to a selected number of guests each day and it will transform your VIP’s experience. Your VIP could be surprised as they are selected to open the park in the morning with a favourite Disney friend or lead the Disney Band as the Star Conductor on Main Street USA. These are just some of many delightful surprises that the Disney cast members have lined up to ensure your VIP receive a truly unforgettable experience.

An 18-month collaboration of world-class talent from Disney Parks around the world, the Flights of Fantasy Parade is Disney’s most innovative yet and will sweep you off your feet as you witness it transform before your eyes. Flights of Fantasy Parade will take you up, up and away on a skyhigh celebration as Mickey’s Magical Airship leads the way.

Stitch’s surfing dudes, Jungle Book monkeys, Toy Story Green Army Men and more, will all be floating on air.

Tinker Bell Castle The spectacular centrepiece to the Celebration in the Air, is Tinker Bell’s Pixie Dusted Castle. By day, Sleeping Beauty Castle glistens as the golden pixie dust sparkles and shimmers in the sun. By night, the castle magically transforms with a dramatic illumination as Tinker Bell’s magic pixie dust is showered all over the castle, making a rousing finale to each anniversary evening.

5th Anniversary Merchandise During Celebration in the Air, guests will be able to enjoy a more diversified shopping experience as the resort opens a new merchandise outlet, Center Street Boutique, on Main Street, USA. The shop offers trendy, exclusive collections created with a unique Disney twist.

Tinker Bell

The 5th anniversary merchandise series is definitely something not to be missed. It features three co-branded exclusive and collectible ‘Vinylmation’ figurines as well as more than 200 new items featuring Tinker Bell, Sorcerer Mickey, ‘Flights of Fantasy’ and Tinker Bell Castle.

Tinker Bell is so excited to be part of the Celebration in the Air that she’s found a new fairy garden in Fantasyland.

She’ll be making her sparkling debut to come and meet her favourite friends.

Visit www.hongkongdisneyland.com or call Disney Reservation Center at +852 1830 830 for more details on tickets and hotel reservation.

If you’re looking for an even more memorable visit to Hong Kong Disneyland, look no further than the privileged Star Experiences. The Star Pass entitles you to front-ofline privileges to shows and attractions. The Star Tour is a special guided tour of the Park..

The Star Sparkling Dinner package creates the ultimate ending to your day, including VIP viewing locations for the Tinker Bell Castle Illumination and Disney in the Stars fireworks show and a full course Chinese dinner at Plaza Inn. Star Photography Package features a dedicated personal photographer for one hour to capture your special moments during your visit to the park.

Star Experiences can be booked through our central reservations at +852 1-830-830 or visit hongkongdisneyland. com. For Star Photography Package, please call +852 3407 3111 or visit Town Square Photo in the Park.

IMAGES: HONG KONG TOURISM

Flights Of Fantasy Parade

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Great Australian Road Tips Great Ocean Road

Explore Australia’s great touring routes and you’ll discover why the journey itself is half the fun.

Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain

Sydney Opera House

Yarra Valley’s T’Gallant Vineyards

Good planning is essential for any self-drive Australian holiday, and there are a few important points to be aware of. Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road, and most Australian roads are in good condition. Traffic is generally not heavy, except for city peak hours, and even the remote parts of the Northern Territory can be reached in a standard vehicle. Well-maintained highways link Australia’s cities, and fuel is readily available.

Throughout Australia, you’ll pass road signs which alert drivers to the possibility that kangaroos, koalas and wombats might cross your path. But you certainly won’t be swerving around these animals in the cities.

Australian car-hire companies offer 24-hour roadside assistance. Hire cars are of excellent standard and GPS satellite navigation systems are widely available.

Some popular touring routes include: The Great Sunshine Way (7 to 10 days) Enjoy the best that Southern Queensland has to offer.

From Brisbane, head towards the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Fraser Coast. A fascinating mix of cities, country towns, coast and hinterland.

Pacific Coast Touring Route: Sydney to Brisbane (7 to 14 days) Beautiful coastal drive that takes you through Port Stephens, Australia’s dolphin capital, towards the bohemian Byron Bay, then exciting Gold Coast.

Sydney and Surrounds (4 to 7 days) Explore the regions beyond Sydney including the WorldHeritage-listed Blue Mountains area, Hunter Valley wine country and Port Stephens – Australia’s dolphin capital.

Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive (8 to 14 days) Highlights include national parks, The Grand Pacific Drive, wildlife, surf beaches and pristine lakes – plus whales, seals and penguins.

Canberra and Surrounds (4 to 7 days) Spectacular natural beauty awaits on this drive from Canberra to the nearby South Coast and charming Capital Country, or up to the famous Snowy Mountains.

Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula (4 to 7 days) Kangaroos and echidnas abound on this breathtaking route from Adelaide along the scenic Fleurieu Peninsula to Kangaroo Island, a haven for wildlife including penguins and koalas.

Wine and Outback (4 to 7 days) South Australia’s regional highlights – including the wine regions of Barossa and Clare Valley – combine in a funfilled ‘figure of eight’ drive.

Red Centre Way (4 to 7 days) The Red Centre Way links Alice Springs with the landmarks of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon).

Tasmanian Food & Nature Trail (4 to 7 days) Some of the country’s most outstanding scenery and fresh produce are found on the journey along Tasmania’s east coast from Tamar Valley to Hobart.

Perth to Australia’s South West Region (6 to 9 days) This drive showcases the diversity of Western Australia’s southwest corner; a region where world-class wineries adjoin great forests and a stunning coastline.

Check out our tourist attractions with great deals starting from A$290*! The best of Australia self-drive packages include: 2 nights regional hotel accommodation 3 days car rental 2 exciting choices of experiences *Terms and Conditions Apply For more information, please log on to www.australia.com or contact the following agents: Boustead Travel Services Sdn Bhd 03-20316001• Gem Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd 03-77279276 • Golden Deluxe Travel Service Agency Sdn Bhd 03-21446888 • Harpers Travel (M) Sdn Bhd 03-79471388 • Holiday Tours & Travel Sdn Bhd 03-62866288 • Malaysian Harmony Tour & Travel Sdn Bhd 03-21425227 • Mitra Tours & Travel 03-21611311 • MSL Travel Sdn Bhd 03-40424722 • Parlo Travel Sdn Bhd 03-22747877 • PNL Travel Sdn Bhd 03-92844859 • Sunway Travel Sdn Bhd 603-56333446 • TravelBiz & Tours Sdn Bhd 03-26148989 Get your copy of the specially produced Lonely Planet Great Australian Road Trips guide at participating Aussie Specialist Agents or visit Tourism Australia at booths number 1223-1227; 1250-1254; 1255-1259 and 12821286 in Hall 1 (next to stage performance), at the MATTA Fair held in PWTC Kuala Lumpur on March 11th to 13th (from 10am to 9pm).

IMAGES: AUSTRALIA TOURISM

S

elf-drive holidays in Australia can be short and exhilarating, or epic journeys. The self-drive options are limitless, from sweeping along in a Mustang in Tasmania or exploring the Red Centre in a 4WD. There are easy day-trips to be enjoyed from Australia’s capital cities, and these drives pack plenty of fun into a short time.

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There’s nothing like travelling through a postcard.

e camping trip, Whether setting off on a once in a lifetimby from the window of an watching the ever-changing landscape roll nningly beautiful coastline outback train, or navigating a car up a stued for a lifetime.

–your Aussie journeys will be remember ents to discover, And with such a large variety of environm meet, you’re never going cities to get lost in and friendly locals to to share. It’s no wonder to find yourself short of amazing stories re than photographs. people leave Australia with so much mo g like Australia.

And no wonder people say, there’s nothin rt from A$290 Best Of Australia Journeys packages sta Visit www.australia.com for details.

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THE TRAVEL TIMES

There’s nothing like travelling through a postcard.

e camping trip, Whether setting off on a once in a lifetimby from the window of an watching the ever-changing landscape roll nningly beautiful coastline outback train, or navigating a car up a stued for a lifetime.

–your Aussie journeys will be remember ents to discover, And with such a large variety of environm meet, you’re never going cities to get lost in and friendly locals to to share. It’s no wonder to find yourself short of amazing stories re than photographs. people leave Australia with so much mo g like Australia.

And no wonder people say, there’s nothin rt from A$290 Best Of Australia Journeys packages sta Visit www.australia.com for details.

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11-13 MARCH, 2011

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Discovering Kerala I

History Dated back to the 3rd century BC, traders from Egypt, Phoenicia, China and Babylon were involved in trading activities with Kerala. This had made Kerala a prominent trade centre. This state continued to flourish and in 1498, the Portuguese landed on its shore, followed by the French, English and Dutch, all enticed by the abundance of spices (especially pepper), teak and ivory. Other travellers and traders included Greeks, Romans, Arabians; all left an imprint in Kerala in forms of architecture, literature and cuisine.

Nature & Resorts

Periyar National Park, located in Thekkady, Idukki district of Kerala, is home to wild elephants, wild boars, bison, deer and tigers. Covering an area of 925 km², this protected area is a blanket of unaffected evergreen rain forest, and nearly 2,000 different kinds of flowering plants filled the park with life. Cross the lake which was formed by the damming of river Periyar in motor launches and see leafless tree trunks which still stand above the water surface. With 62 different kinds of mammals, 320 different kinds of birds, and 45 different kinds of reptiles, it is literally a wildlife paradise.

Festivals Arattupuzha Pooram is an annual celebration in Sree Sastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The main attraction of this festival lies on the last two days of this celebration. Attended by thousands of devotees, the last day of the festival sees an assembly of around 50 elephants line up in ceremonial attire with an assortment of paraphernalia like muthukuda (colourful and glittering parasols), alavattam (a disc-shaped fan, fringed by a ring of peacock feathers) and venchamaram (white whisks, usually made of hair from Yak’s tail). Then the idols of

gods and goddesses that took part in the ceremony will experience a cleansing ceremony by being immersed in water.

Kottangkulangara Chamayavilakku is a unique festival as it involves a group of beautiful women moving together in the Kottangkulangara Devi temple on the festival night.

The unusual factor about this celebration is that these women are men dressed up as women while holding traditional lamps and walking in procession, as a form of the temple’s ritual.

Shopping Don’t think Kerala is just about flora and fauna. The bustling street of MG Road between East Fort and Palayam is one of the busiest streets in the city. Lined with food outlets, restaurants, retail stores and theatres, this is the best place to bag in silks, diamonds and jewels. While one might find pleasure in shopping at MG Road, Jew Street should not be dismissed. Discover antique art, craft works and decorative pieces not only of Kerala origin but from all over India. Possessing good bargaining skills is a bonus.

11-13 MARCH, 2011

From nature, festivals to shopping, there is nothing more fascinating than an Indian adventure.

ndia is a land of plenty – its people, land, and cultures.

Same for the highly populated Kerala, a state with numerous smaller towns scattered across. Lying on the south-western part of India, Kerala is a long strip of enchanting land with tall and exotic coconut palm. It is said that the land derived its name from ‘Keram’ – the coconut palm, which is no wonder that coconut palm is also the main source of economy for this state. Explore this verdant paradise and you might just find something where your heart belongs.

Kovalam Beach is a major attraction within Thiruvananthapuram, capital city of Kerala. Kovalam curves a silver crescent around a sheltered bay with tall palm trees lining along the coast. It is one of the country’s finest beaches and has a large number of resorts where many seek the sanctuary for recuperation and regeneration, especially with its wide variety of Ayurvedic (traditional medicine native to India) treatments.

With beach resorts ranging from world-class to modest standards, tourists to Kovalam are spoiled for choices.

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Clockwise from top right: Roaming elephants in leisure; Aranmula boat race during Onam festival; Ayurvedic treatment for hair; Kovalam Beach; leafless tree trunks rising above water.

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the red centre way The Red Centre Way is a collection of linked roads and highways that conveys visitors to most of Central Australia’s iconic attractions such as Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (Ayers Rock and the Olgas), Kings Canyon, Palm Valley and the MacDonnell Ranges. The desert landscape is far more varied and beautiful that you would expect and for most of the year, the climate is pleasant, even cool at times, but can be freezing at night. There is a string of national parks along the Red Centre Way, each containing an array of special places unlike anywhere else in the world.

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11-13 MARCH, 2011

to journey the red centre 4 day suggested itinerary day 1 - alice springs

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Begin the day with a hot air balloon trip before visiting the art galleries in Todd Mall for fine indigenous art of Central Australia.

Take a drive to explore the West MacDonnell Ranges, stopping at Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm.

Darwin

day 2 - alice springs - uluru (ayers rock)

Katherine

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(445 km / 5 hours)

day 3 - uluru - kata tjuta national park

Catch the sun’s first rays with sunrise over Uluru / Ayers Rock, before strolling along Mala Walk and Kantju Gorge.

Or opt for a loop walk around the 9.8 kilometre monolith.

Continue to Uluru – Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre where you may try a dot painting workshop and interact with an Aboriginal artist.

Later travel to Uluru / Ayers Rock for a dazzling sun set. Try the Outback BBQ, a DIY BBQ with traditional Aussie charm.

day 4 - uluru (ayers rock)

Today’s adventure destination is Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park. Midway stop to view Mt. Ebenezer and Mt Conner.

Explore Kata Tjuta / Olgas and wander through the Walpa Gorge or the Valley of the Winds (7.4 km).

Tonight, enjoy the Sounds of Silence Dinner under the night sky.

Tennant Creek

detours

day 1 - alice springs - kings canyon

day 2 - kings canyon - uluru ayers rock (300 km / 3 hours)

It is well worthwhile to take an extra day or two in order to visit the majestic Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park.

Feeling adventurous? Stop at Kings Creek Station for a helicopter flight, camel ride or quad bike before heading to Uluru.

(471 km / 5 hours) Glen Helen

Watarrka National Park

Alice Springs Kings Canyon

Uluru / Ayers Rock

Take a scenic flight to gain a bird’s eye view of this amazing landscape from above or learn the Dreamtime stories associated with Uluru on a walking tour around its base with traditional Anangu owners.

Travellers can experience the Canyon’s impressive 300 metre high sandstone walls on a hike to the Canyon rim, follow a walking trail through the scenic desert surrounds or stroll along the boulder-strewn valley floor. From above, take in the panoramic views and the domed rock formation of the ‘Lost City’, before descending into the ‘Garden of Eden’.

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The scenery will take your breath away Just an hour ight from Melbourne

Natural beauty is

Tasmania’s

Tasmania, Australia’s only island state, is a world apart - a place of wild and beautiful landscapes, the cleanest of air, the freshest of seafood and a habitat where animals that once roamed the rest of Australia now ďŹ nd sanctuary.

Taste the difference Tasmania has ideal growing conditions for seafood, award-winning cheeses and wines, some of Australia’s best beers, mouthwatering berries, honey‌ and more.

Pick your own fruit at Sorell Fruit Farm, shuck oysters at Barilla Bay Oyster Farm or try anything made by King Island Diary.

Unexpected wildlife only found in Tasmania Tasmania is the last home of several mammals that once roamed the Australian continent. It is the only place to see in the wild a Tasmanian devil, an eastern quoll (or native cat), the spotted-tailed quoll (tiger cat) and the 40 cm Tasmanian bettong.

heart and soul

Tasmania East Coast Journeys Day 1

Hobart - Richmond - Tasman Peninsula (93 km - 1 hr 30mins) Visit Richmond, stop at Sorell Fruit Farm to pick fruit (when in season) and explore Tasman Peninsula. Visit the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, World Heritage listed - Port Arthur Historic Site and take the Tasman Island eco-cruise.

Day 3

East Coast – St Helens – Bay of Fires - Launceston (239 km - 5 hrs) Enjoy Tasmania’s most scenic coastal drive stopping at Natureworld before arriving at the beautiful Bay of Fires. Then head inland to Pyengana Cheese Factory, St Columba Falls and Forest EcoCentre. In summer, visit Bridestowe Lavender farm at Nabowla. Or drive 175 km inland via Lake Leake, detour to Ross; sample the delights at Ross Bakery, with its original wood-ďŹ red oven.

Day 4

Escape to a wilderness lodge

Cradle Mountain

Escape from the hustle and bustle in your own private cabin at Cradle Mountain, just two and half-hours from Launceston.

Rejuvenate your senses surrounded by inspiring mountain landscapes. Enjoy activities such as horse riding, bushwalks and night spotlighting tours to see wildlife like wombats, wallabies and the Tasmanian devil. At the end of the day sink back into a spa in your own wilderness escape.

Self drive Tasmania Take a self-drive tour and discover why Tasmania is so naturally beautiful. More than a third of Tasmania is protected in national parks, World Heritage Area, forest and marine reserves.

It is a landscape that is both spellbinding and refreshing. It’s easy to drive from the coast, through rolling farmlands and into the mountains in a pleasant day’s travel.

Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park

Day 2 Tasman Peninsula - East Coast (275 km - 2 hrs 30 mins) Explore Freycinet National Park; climb the Wineglass Bay lookout, take a challenging walk to Wineglass Bay, visit Cape Tourville Lighthouse and explore the coast in a sea kayak. Choose to cruise Wineglass Bay or take a 4WD motor bile to explore Freycinet’s magical beaches and granite sea cliffs. Visit Freycinet Marine Farm and join Bicheno Penguin Tours in the evening.

Launceston - Tamar Valley (100 km – 2 hrs return) Chairlift across Cataract Gorge and head north to Tamar Valley. Visit Lavender House; Seahorse World; Platypus House and spend time at Tasmania’s acclaimed cool-climate wineries. In the afternoon, tour south by visiting the Tasmanian Honey Company; Tasmanian Gourmet Sauce and World Heritage listed sites of Brickendon and Woolmer Estates, renowned for its Rose Garden.

Best of Tasmania Free & Easy Packages 4 Days / 3 Nights Wilderness & West Coast From A$402 Â… 3N Stay in Tasmania Â… 4D car Hire Â… Choice of 3 experiences: Seahorse World, Platypus House, Cataract Gorge 2 way Chairlift, Devils@Cradle Night feeding tour or Night Spotting Tour

4 Days / 3 Nights East Coast Food & Nature From A$402

4 Days / 3 Nights Hobart or Launceston City Lifestyle From A$320

MATTA Bonus Â… Stay a min of 5 nights & received A$50 fuel voucher for free * *

Per room basis, only applies to Innkeepers Hotels, Premium Hotels, Apartments and Premium Apartments)

Â… Enjoy a Free Tasmanian Gourmet Sauce gift pack or a Royal Danish Sweetheart cake * *

… 3N Stay in Tasmania … 4D car Hire … Choice of 3 experiences: National Holidays Park Pass, Hobart Airport – Hotel 1-way transfer, Tahune AirWalk, Port Arthur Historic Site or East Coast Natureworld

Â… 3N Stay in Hobart or Launceston + Choice of 1 Full day tour : Port Arthur Historic Site, Huon Valley & Tahune AirWalk or Cradle Mountain

Per room basis, limited stock, applicable to self-drive package only & travel by 15 Dec 2011

Â… Enjoy A$25 per person * *

Max 3 adult per room

*

MATTA bonus are valid for booking by 13 Mar 11 and base on first come first serve basis.

Please contact Best of Australia travel partners Boustead TravFM 1 Â… (FN TravFM , Â… (PMEFO %FMVxe TravFM 8 Â… )BSQFST TravFM , Â… )PMJEBZ Tours (0424)( 23070-H) .BMBZTJBO )BSNPOZ 7 Â… .JUra TravFM ) Â… .4L TravFM 6 Â… Parlo TravFM ) Â… 1NL Travel (0908 )(143718-V) Sunway TravFM % Â… TravelBiz & Tours (0757)( 10261-K)

discovertasmania.com

A world apart, not a world away.

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Discover Japan!

Taito

O

With the rise of popularity of Japan in the global travel scene, Japan is more accessible than ever. Haneda International airport has began operating in December 2010. After landing in Haneda International airport, down town Tokyo is just a brief 15 minutes away and connections to other major cities have become very convenient.

AirAsia has now started operation and one way ticket to Haneda could be less than RM800 depending on dates and availability. Japan is no longer the expensive destination it once was. Japan has experienced more than a decade of deflation while prices in Southeast Asia has boomed in the last decade.

If you are considering your next holiday destination, why not visit Japan Pavilion at MATTA FAIR 2011 for a holiday consideration. Japan National Tourism Organization and eight exhibitors from Japan including Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) will make a showcase to display what this country has to offer.

Kansai The Kansai region is a treasure house of history and culture. The Kansai region was home to Japan’s capital for more than 1,000 years after its birth as a unified nation.

Unique Japanese traditions and culture developed during

this long history and have been handed down to modern times. Landscapes rich in natural beauty and seasonal colours continue to charm visitor’s hearts.

If you want to explore World Heritage Sites in Japan, without doubts, Kansai Region would be your choice.

Japan has 11 cultural and three natural World Heritage Sites. The Kansai region boasts five of the 11 cultural World Heritage Sites.

City Of Osaka Geographically, Osaka City belongs to the Kansai Region.

As the economic centre and tourism hub of the Kansai Region, it deserves special attention.

Due to its convenient location, Osaka has developed as the western gateway to Japan, serving as a centre for international trade and cultural interaction. It had its own port by the 5th century and the city had become a centre of distribution for the rest of Japan by the 17th century, with many specialty products from the provinces finding their way to Osaka.

The canals and bridges that were built to facilitate the movement of goods helped to shape the city and their influence can still be seen to this day. Riverside attractions include the tree-lined banks of the gently flowing rivers in the Okawa~Nakanoshima area, the lively Dotombori area and the Bay area with its new amusements and theme parks.

Today, Osaka is developing as hub for the nextgeneration robots , combining a rich cultural past with a sophisticated high-tech future that provides countless attractions for visits and residents.

City Of Sendai Sendai is located in Japan’s Tohoku (northeast region) and is deemed as the political and economic centre of this region with a population of one million people. It is well known as a modern city dwelling with nature. Beautiful scenic spots are found everywhere. The Hirose river that runs through the heart of the city has become an icon.

Greenery is especially abundant in the centre of the city, which has tree-lined streets and parks. Hence, the Sendai is often referred as ‘City of Trees’.

Sendai is easily accessible from both Tokyo and Osaka.

From Tokyo it takes a mere 100 minutes by Shinkansen (bullet train) and the trip from Narita Airport to Sendai

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Japan is becoming an increasingly popular vacation destination around the globe.

Gifu

ne word that best describe Japan is the diversity that this country has to offer to the rest of the world. Japan’s attractions include four distinctive seasons, abundant nature, beautiful scenery, rich food culture, traditional performing arts, world heritage sites, high technology, industry, manga (comics), fashion, and pop culture.

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takes around two and a half hours by Narita Express and Shinkansen. From Kansai Internatinal Airport, it takes only about an hour and 20 minutes by air. Sendai International Airport has direct flights to six destinations including Taiwan and Beijing. A 3,000 metre runaway is now under construction to accommodate more international flights.

Central Japan The Gifu, Aichi, Mie, and Shizuoka Prefectures will unite to exhibit in the Matta Fair, under the name ‘Central Japan’.

‘Central Japan’ is a manufacturing industry area, where a wide variety of industrial goods such as automobiles and musical instruments are produced. The area is also well known for manufacturing Japanese festival floats, skilled craftsmanship, beautiful natural surroundings, and a rich historical and cultural heritage.

Highlights of the tourist attractions of each prefecture are described below:

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Okinawa

Furthermore, Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido are well represented in this area and visitors can experience the unique history and culture of Hokkaido.

Okinawa Okinawa, also referred to as ‘Ryukyu Islands’, is the southern most island of Japan with a subtropical climate.

Two hundred kinds of coral reefs surrounding the islands resemble necklaces in crystal clear sea water. Its beautiful natural environment, unique culture, food, arts and crafts, world class resort hotels, World Heritage sites, and gigantic aquarium park will make it a vacation you will never forget.

Travel: www.visitokinawa.jp Food: www.jpn-okinawa.com Logistics: www.okinawahub.com Taito

Gifu Located near the very centre of Japan, Gifu Prefecture is richly diverse and full of contrasts and a place where visitors can enjoy and appreciate the beauty of nature. http://www.kankou-gifu.jp/en/index.html

Aichi Aichi is known as Japan’s leader of manufacturing industries, from leading-edge industries like automobiles to the traditional industries like potteries. http://www.aichi-kanko.jp/j-heartland/

Mie Mie Prefecture offers a wide range of entertainment, shopping, and thrill seeking activities. http://tourismmiejapan.com/

Shizuoka Shizuoka is an attractive part of Japan where you can admire the sea and mountains together with the symbol of Japan, Mt Fuji. http://www.shizuoka-guide.com/english/index.html

Sendai

Taito City - Tokyo Taito City - Tokyo is an area rich in culture where many craftsman and merchants gather around from the old days and continues to exist as a genuine ‘Down Town’ with streets exuding a warm and welcoming atmosphere. http://www.city.taito.lg.jp/

Hokkaido Greater Toya-Noboribetsu The Noboribetsu and Lake Toya area is well known in Japan for its hot springs. The access from New Chitose airport, the gateway to Hokkaido, is a very convenient destination in terms of distance and accessibility.

While Hokkaido is well known for its beautiful landscapes this area is an ideal place to go to enjoy the colours of four seasons and was the first in Japan to be designated as ‘Global Geopark’. This area is also known for being a gourmet spot, where visitors can enjoy fresh and exquisite seafood from the northern sea and nutritious agricultural product grown in the fertile volcanic soil.

See you at MATTA travel fair 2011, at Mezzanine floor HALL-1, Putra World Trade Centre, KL!

IMAGES: JAPAN TOURISM BOARD

Otaru

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Philippines – The Great Enchantment Boracay

IMAGES JT Lim (Chocolate Hills); Wiki (White Beach); Kok Leng Yeo (Philippines Tarsier)

It’s no mystery why the White Beach in Philippines holds great allure – just stand on a soft sandy beach in the day to view the turquoise waters of Sulu Sea. This sandy beach that feels like cushion beneath your feet is where sea-sport enthusiasts and sun-bathers gather for a day of fun-filled activities.

Other than snoozing and sun-bathing, take part in adrenaline-pumping activities such as windsurfing, kite-boarding and banana-boat riding. The ultra clear waters and beautifully clean surroundings offer the best condition to snorkel, sail on a paraw (a local outrigger boat), and hobie-cat on the crashing waves. Also let the myriad of stalls entice you with massages and henna body art services.

Cebu Cebu is the country’s oldest but most developed city. Many considered it as the birthplace of Asia’s Chrisitianity. Basilica of Santo Nino is a 16th century church that houses a museum where religious articles such as Santo Nino’s (Holy Child Jesus) old cloaks, statues, relics, and antique furniture are displayed.

Expect high volume of devotees and curious visitors in this magnificent church throughout the year!

As the smallest but oldest tri-based fort in the Philippines, Fort San Pedro evolved from army camp, zoo, to National Museum where artefacts such as documents, sculptures and paintings are preserved from the Spanish regime.

Bohol Chocolate Hills in Bohol looks as intriguing as its name suggests. Chocolate Hills beared its name as these conical karst hills transforms from green to chocolate brown at the end of the dry season. The estimated number of such hills in the region amounts to about 1,776, making it a prime tourist destination in the Philippines.

If you find Chocolate Hills fascinating, then you haven’t seen the Philippines Tarsier. Being one of the world’s smallest primates, the Philippines Tarsier is so tiny that it measures only about 85 to 160 millimetres in height. Coloured gray to dark brown; these monkeys are about the size of a palm and definitely smaller than your handbag.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: White Beach; Philippines Tarsier; Chocolate Hills

Booth No. Hall 1, 1335-1336, 1347-1348

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BORACAY FREE & EASY

• Return Economy Class ticket Kuala Lumpur-Manila-Cacticlan v. v.

• Roundtrip airport transfer.

• 3 nights accommodation in 5 star hotel with daily breakfast.

4090

FROM MYR

PER PERSON Package is based on twin sharing per person basis. Terms and conditions apply.

Supported by PHILIPPINE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

206A, Block A, Mentari Business Park, 2, Jalan PJS 8/5, Bandar Sunway, 46150 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, MALAYSIA.

Tel: +603-5638 7288 Fax: +603-5637 Website: www.tourism.gov.ph

0988

4D 3N

CEBU FREE & EASY

• Return Economy Class ticket Kuala Lumpur-Manila-Cebu v. v.

• Roundtrip airport transfer • 3 nights accommodation in 5 star hotel with daily breakfast • Island hoping inclusive lunch

3190

FROM MYR

PER PERSON

3D 2N

BOHOL FREE & EASY

• Return Economy Class ticket Kuala Lumpur-Manila-Tagbilaran v. v.

• Roundtrip airport transfer • 2 nights accommodation in 5 star hotel with daily breakfast

2590

FROM MYR

PER PERSON

Philippine Airlines (PAL), offers twice daily direct code and Manila. With its hub in Manila, PAL offers connection to share service between Kuala Lumpur and Manila. PAL 29 domestic destinations within the Philippines and 31 also offers four daily direct service between Singapore international destinations.

For enquiry, contact your preferred travel agents or

Philippine Airlines GSA: Pacific World Travel Sdn Bhd. Email: kulsmpr@pacificworld.travel

Tel: +603-2141 Fax: +603-2148

0767 1357

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5 Ways To Experience Korea Rich in culture, natural beauty and entertainment, a Korean adventure is sure to reach out to all your senses.

Safari World, you can get to see the mighty big cats including the rare white tiger and get up close to giraffes and elephants.

Everland also houses colourful gardens with gorgeous flowers, a racing track and the Carribbean Bay water park.

Seoul’s Lotte World is a massive compound which consists of shopping malls, an amusement park, a hotel, a museum, theatres, and the world’s largest indoor theme park.

Catch A Show Touted as one of the ‘Top 10 Things To See In Seoul’ by the Korea Tourism Organization, Nanta, which means ‘random drum-beats’, is a non-verbal stage show that blends rhythmical movements with a touch of comedy. Nanta’s appeal transcends age and language and is a must-see for everyone.

Neon lights beckon twilight shoppers

Shop In Seoul With shops that remain open in the wee hours of the night, Seoul is the ultimate shopping destination.

If you are craving for some retail therapy at 2am, Dongdaemun is where you can head to. A popular shopping area, Dongdaemun is divided into two sections: one housing a traditional market, and another with huge multi-storey malls, one of which is Doosan Tower, more commonly known as Doota.

Eight floors of shopping goodness await you at Doota.

Each floor of the mall has a different theme, so maximize your time there by heading to the mall directory and picking out your floor of choice. This is a good place to sharpen your bargaining skills. Vendors are also more amenable to discounts if you pay cash, so make sure you have wads on hand before you embark on a spree here.

Another popular shopping spot is Myeongdong. Home to a mix of international brands like Zara, H&M, and Forever 21, as well as local labels, this labyrinth of streets is a shopping mecca for the younger crowd.

Another popular dish is samgye-tang, a ginseng chicken soup where the body cavity of a small chicken is filled with glutinous rice, ginseng shoots and jujubes and boiled in a clear stock.

If you have a palate for stronger flavours, slurp on cheonggukjang-jigae, a soup made from a pungent paste of fermented soybean, salt, garlic, ginger and crushed red pepper. Ingredients such as minced beef, shredded cabbage or radish and tofu make up the dish.

Fanta-Stick is a fresh interpretation of Romeo and Juliet. Break dancing, martial arts, dance and percussion and string performances make up this heart warming performance.

Colourful Everland

Roadside stalls can also serve up a gastronomic storm.

Stop at one and tuck into a plate of gimbap (rice wrapped in seaweed), sundae (Korean sausage stuffed with pig’s blood, rice, onion, etc) or tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cake in pepper sauce).

Get Some Thrills Home to a multitude of animals and exciting rides and attractions, Everland is a famous family park in Korea. At

Visit Beautiful Jeju Island Off the southern coast of South Korea, Jeju Island is one of the most beautiful places in Korea as well as the rest of the world. Spring is the best time visit Jeju Island as the island transforms into floral paradise with the blooming of flowers of all kinds, not least cherry blossoms, for which visitors flock to the island to see.

The Jeju cherry blossom is a species native to the island. Due to Jeju’s unique climate, they have larger petals and fuller flowers than regular cherry blossoms.

Walking down Jeju Cherry Avenue, with white snow gently cascading upon you and the pink cherry blossoms, is surely a romantic experience unmatched by any other.

Kimchi and rice are staples and served with almost every dish at restaurants. Beginners can start off with bibimbap, which is an all-in-one dish with rice and several vegetables, including bean sprouts and spinach, topped off with the red pepper sauce known as gochujang.

IMAGES: KOREA TOURISM

Savour The Cuisine

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From giant pandas to world class entertainment and scrumptious food, there is something for everyone in Macau.

t n e c fi i Magn

he Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) is introducing Macau as a unique holiday destination for families, couples and group of friends. Whether you are new or already been travelling to Macau in the past; whether you are food aficionados or heritage enthusiasts or photography enthusiasts, Macau, being a unique blend of eastern and western culture, affluence of old and new, is always ready to offer travellers personalised experiences in a sensational way.

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The Ruins of St Paul’s

New Attractions

EXPERIENCE

Recently there have been many exciting tourist attractions opening in Macau. For instance, Macau’s newest tourist attraction, Macau Giant Panda Pavilion, has been open since Jan 28, 2011. The pavilion is nestled against a hill side in Seac Pai Van Park in Coloanne, and is comprised of two 330 sq m indoor activity quarters and a 600 sq m outdoor yard as well as a 900 sq m indoor exhibit area for the inhabitation of the giant pandas presented from the China - central government to the Macao SAR; namely ‘Kai Kai’ and ‘Xin Xin’.

There are world class entertainment shows such as the world’s largest water extravaganza The House Of Dancing Water. An amazing epic adventure that transcends time and space, the show at City of Dreams has become a very sought-after attraction among visitors. By the end of April, ‘Galaxy Macau’ will be opened to enlighten all visitors for both leisure and MICE.

The giant pandas Kai Kai and Xin Xin

Macau Explorevaganza In conjunction with this travel fair, MGTO is bringing back the Macau Explorevaganza tour package due to popular demand from the public. This is a special travel package to provide visitors a treasure trove of experiences unlike any other. At only RM1899*, the four days three nights free and easy package includes Macau welcome kits, return air ticket on Air Asia with onboard meal, three nights accommodation at Hotel Royal Macau, return airport transfer, a half day walk-n-explore hunt around the heritage trail of Macau, half city tour, one prize award presentation dinner and a ticket to a well-known international world class show.

A World of difference , the difference is Macau

The House Of Dancing Water

Participants will be able to compete against each other during the walking trail exploring Macau historical attractions. As the climax of the trip, two winning teams will be awarded a cash prize of RM1,500 and RM1,000 respectively. Book your adventure now!

to Macau to facilitate photographers who wish to capture photos for submission. The Grand Prize winner will be awarded RM3,000 cash and a camera. Moreover there are three Merit Prizes of RM800 cash and a camera each and 10 Consolations Cash Prizes of RM300 to be won. Grab a chance to experience Macau and win fabulous prizes.

Photography Contest MGTO will also be launching the Experience Macau Photography Contest during the travel fair. With the theme of ‘Experience Macau With the 5 Senses’ (See, Taste, Feel, Hear and Touch), the objective is to tapping into the photography enthusiasts’ market and to promote Macau as a preferred destination for amateur and professional photographers as well as the general public. The contest period will be five months from 11th March to 10th August 2011.

In line with the contest, there will be photography tours

Visit us at Hall 1, Booth No. 1331-1334, 1349-1352.

MGTO is also sponsoring a three days two nights Macau Holiday Package as a lucky draw prize for the buyer contest. Also, there will be a gift redemption at the MGTO booth for those who purchase Macau packages throughout the duration of the fair.

For more information, please call Macau Government Tourist Office at 03-2144 2500 or log in http://www. macautourism.gov.mo *Terms and Conditions Apply

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Kayak Milford Sound, Fiordland Photo: Chris Sisarich

New Zealand A La Carte

S

outh Island in New Zealand is an amazing year-round holiday destination for all ages. It is one of the most favourite vacation spots among visitors. It’s all here VSHFWDFXODU JODFLHUV SLFWXUHVTXH ¿RUGV UXJJHG PRXQWDLQV vast plains, rolling hillsides, subtropical forest, volcanic plateau, miles of coastline with gorgeous sandy beaches within easy reach of each other.

Whether you choose to come in autumn (March – May), winter (June – August), spring (September – November) or summer (December – February), the South Island will keep you occupied for days. Here are some top fun tips to get more New Zealand for your budget.

Things to do for free

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Te Anau gloww orm caves Photo by Real Journeys

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Containing some of the country’s most treasured areas, they protect unique and beautiful areas that can be enjoyed responsibly by the public. ‡ )R[ )UDQ] -RVHSK *ODFLHUV :HVW &RDVW Fox and Franz Joseph glaciers, like many smaller others on the West Coast of the South Island, descend from the Southern Alps GRZQ LQWR WHPSHUDWH UDLQIRUHVW MXVW PHWUHV DERYH VHD OHYHO As these are among the most accessible in the world to visit,

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light pollution and consistency of stargazing throughout the canwalk easily to the footglaciers of the glaciers and at marvel and consistency of stargazing throughout the you canyou easily to walk the foot of the and marvel the at thelight pollution year.

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Amazing Osaka

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11-13 MARCH, 2011

Experience the magic of Osaka with these spectacular sightseeing spots.

The Umeda Sky Building

Dotombori is where you can experience the true meaning of kuidaore

Shin Umeda City Shin Umeda City, the new urban centre located northwest of JR Osaka Station, is an area comprising the Westin Osaka, Umeda Sky Building with its Floating Garden Observatory, Takimi Lane of Restaurants with its retro atmosphere, Chu-Shizennomori which is a forest environment, Hanano which is a flower garden, etc.

The Umeda Sky Building, the core building, is a complex facility with offices, shops, showrooms, event halls, movie theaters, etc. It is two 40-story buildings connected at the top, and the connecting portion is the Floating Garden Observatory.

Hanano and Chu-Shizennomori offer a tranquil and elegant atmosphere with the sound of a stream and chirping of the birds heard through the trees. Events are held numerous times throughout the year.

Osaka Castle Osaka Castle, which is a famous landmark, a popular sightseeing spot, and the symbol of Osaka, contains thirteen structures which have been designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government.

Of special note are the grand gates and turrets along the outer moat. The steep walls that rise close to 30

metres high are made of huge blocks of stone that were transported to Osaka from quarries over 100 kilometres away. The sheer height of the walls and the wide moats they rise above make for a grand sight that can be matched by no other castle in Japan.

Also of interest are the tower’s eight roof dolphins and the ornamental roof tiles and reliefs carved in the shape of tigers, all of which are gilded with gold.

Universal Studios Japan® Enjoy a variety of exciting theme rides and shows inspired by world famous movies, animations and comic series spread out among nine distinctly designed areas offering unique experiences.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

In addition to the main attractions there are numerous restaurants, shops and even street performances. A variety of street scenes and popular characters await you. For children and grownups alike, the entire park is filled with wonder and allows you to experience the thrill and excitement of the fantastically imaginative worlds of famous blockbuster movies.

Dotombori Dotombori is a symbol of the Minami Area and a mecca for the kuidaore food culture of Osaka. Dozens of restaurants line the Dotomborigawa River, and large famous billboards draw diners’ attention. On the north side of the river, where geisha used to entertain their customers, are now small bars and restaurants squeezed together in rows.

The southern side of the river is the centre of the Dotombori area, which was once known as the theater district. Nowadays, colorful neon signs and flash signboards enliven the area, showing that the district still represents the passion of Osakans.

Osaka Castle

Universal Studios Japan®

In one of Dotombori’s back streets, Hozenji-Yokocho, small restaurants are located along the stone-paved alley, retaining the flavour and atmosphere of old Osaka. It’s like a step back in time.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Within the Tempozan Harbor Village at the centre of the Bay Area you will find, housed in a structure of remarkable design, the Osaka Aquarium ‘Kaiyukan’, one of the largest aquariums in the world.

Consisting of 15 water tanks centred on a single huge tank holding 5,400 tonnes of water, it is home to 580 species and 30,000 marine animals from the Pacific Rim—everything from strangely delightful jellyfish, to playfully chortling sea otters, to dolphins, penguins, and even a pair of majestic giant whale sharks, the largest fish on earth.

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Rhythm in Paradise

The land of natural wonders aplenty presents two of the most fascinating music events of the year.

By DARREN WONG

May 13-14 Borneo Jazz Festival Hit the grooves this coming May at the annual Borneo Jazz Festival as musicians from around the world gather for a spectacular display of musical performances.

This enchanting music affair consists of top-notch Jazz performers such as Grammy nominee Maria Muldaur, Yuichiro Tokuda, CQuence, and Cunha & Piper.

Last year, visitors came from as far as the UK, Australia and Japan. Aiming to broaden its publicity, authorities announced that this year’s Borneo Jazz Festival will be bigger with more inclusive events. Reports also indicated that Sarawak Tourism Board would develop jazz packages targeting Japan, Korea, Singapore, Europe, Australia and the peninsula. With target attendance over 10,500 visitors and 60 percent coming from outside Sarawak, Borneo Jazz Festival promises to be one of the grandest music festivals in Southeast Asia.

the interiors of Borneo. To provide a wholesome festive experience, food, beverage and souvenir stalls will be set up for the benefit of all participants.

Held at the living museum dedicated to the preservation of the indigenous cultures, Rainforest World Music Festival will be playing for its audience at the beautiful 17-acre Sarawak Cultural Village. Replica longhouses serve as an architectural preservation as well as audience seats for visitors to this astounding musical fiesta.

With performers such as the Blue Canyon Boys (USA); Frigg (Finland); Victor Valdez Trio (Mexico); and Kenge Kenge (Kenya), visitors are in for an international music extravaganza! (rainforestmusic-borneo.com)

The two-day event will be held at Parkcity Everly Hotel, Miri, Sarawak. Performances are lined up from seven in the evening until midnight for both days. Experience jazz music in a totally different light as performers of various cultural backgrounds play you a spectrum of pieces fused with their own personal touch. For jazz music aficionados, get ready to maximise these two days of diverse jazz genres that will fill your soul and quench your jazz-y thirst! (mirijazzfestival.com)

Music is not just sound. It is an art, and with art comes cultures, races, creativity, talents, and performances.

Rainforest World Music Festival 2011 aims to bring all of these into one place, and Borneo is the perfect venue to hold such event. Home to the world’s most diverse eco-systems, visitors will get to experience a totally different sensation from cities’ concerts. Dance to the rhythm of the wind and sway with the lush greenery as the nights will be filled with jamming sessions, mini concerts and evening performances by 18 different bands and performers.

This event not only brings in renowned international musicians, it also invites indigenous musicians from

AN ENCHANTING FUSION of MUSIC & ADVENTURE 13 - 14 MAY 2011 ParkCity Everly Hotel Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia

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www.sarawaktourism.com

www.jazzborneo.com

IMAGES: STB Photos by Suchen.com

July 8-10 Rainforest World Music Festival

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Adventure Wonderland

Immerse yourself in the nature paradise of Sarawak, where adventure lives.

By DARREN WONG

W

hat comes to mind when we hear Sarawak?

Tropical rainforest, nature reserves, limestone caves, abundance of flora and fauna… The diverse ecosystem that holds an amazing variety of living organisms aptly demonstrates Mother Nature’s extensive generosity to this state.

IMAGES: Sarawak Tourism Board

The best way to utilise what nature provides is to be in it.

There is no Disneyland, nor Alexander McQueen flagship store. However, Sarawak offers an escapade, an expanse of national parks and stunning coasts that justly epitomise adventure.

Following closely to the common saying “what you see is what you get”, Sarawak inspires thousands of visitors each year. Its amazing ecosystem and the thoughtfully planned out tourism strategies give fresh meanings to “adventure”.

While many might have heard of Sarawak as a place with abundant natural habitat, few have personally experienced it. What Sarawak offers encompasses the ideology of “adventure”, which is not an empty boast.

Do it the Sarawak Way Trace the route of the ancient Kayan tribesmen. These tribesmen, indigenous to Borneo, are known for being fierce warriors, former headhunters, and lived in longhouses on river banks. As scary as it might sound, visitors can rest assure that no headhunting activities are in progress, in spite of the route named Headhunter’s Trail.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Member of the Iban Tribe in action; river boating as a family; Bako National Park; Golfing; Rafflesia

Explore Fairy & Wind Cave and see fascinating limestone structures that bring classroom geography to life. Formed some 100-150 million years ago, this cave is home to delicate stalagmites and stalactites that somehow resemble figures and animals. This impressive cave contains many swiftlets and bats that dwell within, and these creatures relish the constant breeze the blows throughout the cave.

marine life strives and flourish. Play in their backyard– the indigenous Iban people of Borneo reveal tales and stories of their land. Walk along its garden – discover Rafflesia, the largest flowering plant in the world, and other animals like hornbills and Orangutans in its tropical rainforest. Visit the park – carnivorous plants, monitor lizards, pangolins and spectacular stack formations residing at Bako National Park.

In a nutshell, Sarawak is the place for ultimate adventure.

Dip in Sarawak’s swimming pool – the clear sea where

If you’ve never been to Sarawak, it’s time to embark on an unforgettable journey. “Sarawak, where adventure lives”.

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Fascinating Taiwan We have zoomed in to some of the interesting locations from the itinerary and present you with a unique and inspiring Taiwan experience.

Yangmingshan National Park As the only park in Taiwan that has volcanic geography, Yangmingshan National Park is one of the most visited parks in the country. Within this compound stands the tallest extinct volcano, Seven Star Mountain, which peaks at 1,120m. Volcanic landforms include hot springs, fumaroles (opening of the earth’s crust), and numerous fault lines across the mountains. The expanse of this park stretches 125 hectares, and its structures are designed in traditional Chinese style. Beautiful and exquisite Chinese architecture and traditional pavilions complement the striking landscapes of ridges, lakes, waterfalls and water basins.

Lengshuikeng, also known as Milk Lake (due to infiltration of sulfurous fumes with the lake’s water), is an ideal spot for visitors to soak in its hot springs, which are cooler in temperature compared to other hot spring pools.

Otherwise take a walk to the observation platform on the northeast side which overlooks the milky white lake and the surrounding vegetation. If you are lucky, you might be able to spot migratory swallows constructing their nests, while some others flock across the sky in early spring.

These birds include the Barn Swallow and the Pacific Swallow.

MAIN PICTURE:123RF.COM, IMAGES: LAWRENCE LIM

Xin Beitou Beitou Library is hailed as Taiwan’s greenest building.

Although it’s not the only green library in Taiwan, Beitou Library has such unique features that it looks extremely modern compared to others. Based on the theme of ecology and preservation, the entire structure is constructed with wood, including the floor, walls, steps and furniture. Aiming to minimise environmental damages, this library uses recycled or renewable materials, installs large windows for abundance of natural light penetration and ventilation, minimising the use of interior lighting, fans and air-conditioning. Housing over 20,000 English and Chinese language books, visitors get to read at

leisure, and at the same time experience the library’s sheer architectural uniqueness. Also visit the Beitou’s Hot Spring Museum, once a public bath during Japanese Occupation, which is a stone’s throw away.

Danshui Street Located at the north of Taipei, Danshui is a massively popular tourist attraction, which might be partly due to the ease of access to this area by the MRT system. This street is famous for its unique and mind-boggling array of Taiwanese delicacies. Ice cream as long as an arm’s length, freshly grilled squid, fried durian with almond and iron eggs (small and dark eggs stewed in gravy), be dazzled by these assortments and satisfy your tummy.

Also take a stroll at the Danshui River which in the movie “Secret”, where Jay Chou and Kwai Lun-Mei romantically shared ice creams with each other. Visit other movie locations such as Bali and its left bank and experience the sprouted romance from these movie scenes.

East District Pop Culture Tour With Sogo Shopping Centre as the centralised icon of Sogo Shopping District, this first Japanese-Chinese joint venture is the main attraction to locals and tourists alike.

Be greeted by polite and friendly staff; shop luxury brands such as Dior, Gucci, Prada and Tiffany; eat authentic Taiwanese cuisine in its food court; this is one of the best places to spend your leisure time and fulfill your shopping craves.

Noted for its annual fireworks exhibition, visitors to Taipei should not miss a visit to Taipei 101. An adjoining multi-storey shopping mall houses countless fashionable stores and restaurants. From Calvin Klein, Ted Baker, Diesel, Coach, Montblanc, Louis Vuitton, Bvlgari to Fendi, Taipei 101 mall offers you an array of international trendy fashion brands that guarantees a world class shopping experience.

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Taroko Gorge

Danshui Lover Bridge

Route Name

Theme

Itinerary

1. Sanying Old Street Enchanting Tour

Local Culture

Sanxia Qingshui Zushi (Divine Ancestor) Temple  Sanxia Old Street  Historical Artifacts Museum  Lee Mei-Shu Memorial Hall  Yingge Old Street  Ceramics Museum

2. Pingxi Sky Lantern and Jiufen, A Tour of the Past

Customs and Religion

Coal Washing Factory at Jingtong Coal Mine  Shifen Old Street  Pingxi  Ruifang  Jiufen  Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park (Gold Temple)  Gold Waterfalls  Yinyang Sea  Old Caoling Bicycle Tunnel

3. Xinbeitou – Nutritious, Healthy, Beauty, Relaxing One Day Tour

Hot Springs

Xinbeitou  Beitou Library (Eco building)  Hot Spring Museum  Hell Valley  Zenkoji Temple (or Puji Tempe or Fazang Temple)  Hot Spring Resort  The Lin Yu-tang House, Yangmingshan National Park or Mountain Chateau

4. “Secret” + “Next Stop, Happiness” Movie Location Tour (Danshui, Bali) 

Tracking Celebrity Tours

Fortress San Domingo, Danshui  Little White House  Oxford College  Octagon Building, Tamkang Middle School  Lunch (Agay, Fish Ball Soup, Jay Chou Package)  Blue Way  Fisherman’s Wharf, Lover Bridge  Left Bank Bali (Bike-riding)  Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology  Formosa Fun Coast (Hot springs, Water park)  Take the ferry back to Danshui  Danshui Old Street

5. Jinshan Wanli – Mountain Spring Ocean Spring Two Day Tour

Hot Springs

Yehliu Geological Park  Ye Liou Ocean World  Jinshan Old Street  Shitoushan Park  Zhuming Musuem  Jinshan Wanli Hot Spring  Keelung Temple Plaza

6. East District Pop Culture Tour

Contemporary Culture

Sogo Shopping District  Zhongxiao East Road, Section 4 (East Metro Mall)  Shin Kong Mitsukoshi (Xinyi Shopping District)  Eslite Bookstore Xinyi Branch  Taipei 101  Nightclubs (Pub, Bar, Disco, etc.)

7. Sun Moon Lake Nine Main Tribal Culture Tour

Aborigines Tribes

Day 1: Taichung  Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village (Sun Moon Lake Cable Car)  Sun Moon Lake Ita Thao Trail  Ita Thao Community  Lake Tour Day 2: Snake Kiln  Checheng

8. Wufenpu Valuable Fashion Tour

Innovative Tours

Afternoon Tea at East District  Wufenpu Market  Night Market

9. Jiaoxi – Indulge in Hot Spring Therapy Facility

Hot Springs

Enjoy a farm experience at Toucheng or Leisure Farm  Water activities at Waiao Beach  Indulge in seafood at Wushih Harbor  Lanyang Museum  Jiaoxi Hot Spring Bath and Gourmet experience

10. Huatung Line Railway Tour

Innovative Tours

Day 1: Hualien  Chihsingtan  Taroko National Park Day 2: Taroko National Park  Shoufung (Liyu Lake)  Funglin  Kwangfu  Ruisui  Yuli Day 3: Yuli  Fuli  Chishang  Guanshan  Luye  Taitung

IMAGES: Taiwan Tourism

Top 10 Routes for International Travellers

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11-13 MARCH, 2011

The world’s largest water fight is part of the festivities

Happy Thai New Year

A

s mid-April’s temperature rises, ushering in the beginning of the hot season in Thailand, the whole country reverberates with the sounds of cheerful laughter and merry-making.

The occasion is the Songkran Festival, which ushers in the Thai New Year, celebrated nationwide from April 13-15 yearly. It is a time when much of the worries of the past year are left behind so that a new beginning can be planned for the year ahead. The water-splashing that usually accompanies a Thai New Year is certainly most appropriate, especially during the hot month.

Step out of your hotel rooms and you would probably be greeted by young and old alike with buckets of water or water guns, especially designed for the occasion. And if you are lucky, then the splashing would be followed by a face make-up with talcum powder and perfume.

Importance Of Songkran ‘Songkran’ (from the Sanskrit word Sankranti, signifying the sun’s shift from one zodiac to another) heralds the beginning of the solar year and is the most important festival for the people of Thailand.

The festival is celebrated over three days, ‘Mahasongkran’ on April 13, that marks the end of the old year, Wan Nao (April 14) is the day after and April 15 is Wan Thaloeng Sok when the New Year begins.

On New Year’s Day, families and friends gather to offer prayers to the Buddha, clean temples and houses, offer alms to the monks and sprinkle scented water on elders as a mark of respect and on each other’s hands as an act of wishing good luck.

The pouring of water is symbolic of the cleansing of the spirit, mind and body. The water is also supposed to wash away bad luck - so consider yourself blessed if you get drenched.

In recent years, the tradition of sprinkling water has been interpreted by youngsters as a great excuse for a water fight, and it is not uncommon to have buckets and containers of water thrown at you by teams of merry makers in the backs of trucks as you make your way down the street - particularly in major tourist areas like Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Hat Yai. The people of Thailand work hard in a very hot climate, so it only makes sense that their biggest party is the world’s largest water fight accompanied with music,

dancing and tonnes of splashing, as the typically mellow populace explodes into wild celebration.

Midnight Songkran In Hat Yai, there is something called the Midnight Songkran, where festivities and splashing of water begin at the stroke of midnight on April 12 to cater to the large number of tourists from Malaysia who troop to the southern Thai city to join in the fun.

This year, the Thai New Year falls on a Wednesday.

Make sure you book your accommodation early as you don’t want to miss out on this yearly celebration.

IMAGES: THAI TOURISM

From April 13-15, 2011, the Songkran Festival will usher in the Thai New Year.

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Ethereal Turkey A

n interview with Turkish Embassy Tourism & Information Office’s Culture and Tourism Counsellor, Mr Ali Gulen, gave us an insight on tourism in Turkey and its best places to visit this coming season.

28.5 million people worldwide visit Turkey annually, including 32,458 Malaysian travellers, and with continuous increase of 9.81% compared to last year. This increase of inbound tourism marks Turkey as the next country to plan a vacation on.

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Let its ancient charm blow you away

Efes Once a trade centre in the ancient world, Ephesus today is an important tourism centre in Turkey. This pilgrimage hub for Christians was home to the Virgin Mary, and visitors are able to find the house of Virgin Mary on Bubul Mountain, near St John Basilica. With easy accessibility from Adnan Menderes Airport and port Kusadasi, the ruins of Ephesus are a favourite local and international tourist attraction.

Visit Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; Library of Celsus – built by Gaius Julius Aquila in memory of his father; the Odeon – small roofed theater that seats 1,500 audience; Temple of Domitian – one of the largest temples in the city. You might just lose count of the wonders in amazing Ephesus.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia With its unique geographics and climate it is no wonder that Cappadocia is deemed as the most preferred ballooning region in Turkey. Famous for its balloon flights, this region has 14 companies operating more than 70 hot air balloons.

Drift over extraordinary rock formation, ravishing valleys, beautiful landscape dotted with villages, fruit orchards and vineyards. Rising 1,000 feet above land, the experience is as romantic as it is unforgettable. Expect champagne toast service and commemorative flight certificate after completing the hot air balloon tour.

Istanbul The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul offers a wide array of goods shopaholics and tourists find hard to resist. As one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, this Ephesus

“If the whole world was a state, Istanbul would be the capital of it.”

– Napoleon

bazaar consists of 58 covered streets and over 4,000 shops.

From luxurious Turkish carpets, copper and brassware, leather goods, to glazed tiles and pottery, it attracts about 250,000 visitors daily. Time will not be on your side if you plan to patronise all the stalls in just one day.

Other than offering a terrific shopping experience, this sprawling complex also houses several mosques, hamams (Turkish baths), fountains, restaurants and cafes. Spend the day viewing spectacular mosques, or sip a cup of Turkish tea in one of the cafes and watch the crowd buzz by.

IMAGES: TURKEY TOURISM

Istanbul

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Live The High Life At Equatorial Get great deals galore with Equatorial Cameron Highlands

transferable and refundable (at 50% of the voucher’s value) should it not be utilised or consumed before the expiry date. What’s more, there will be a further reduction for any single purchase of more than 10 vouchers.

E

quatorial Cameron Highlands, perched at 1,628 metres above sea level, the only resort located at the peak, offers the finest view of Cameron Highlands. The resort is surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills and majestic mountains that promises a room with a view. Complemented with the familiar Equatorial touch of warmth and hospitality combined with the serene atmosphere, we invite you to come and experience this ultimate highland getaway with a refreshing difference.

Equatorial Cash Voucher Pay RM80, Get RM100. The Hotel Equatorial cash voucher is back by popular demand. This cash voucher is

RM98 Giveaway Deal Discounted rates start from RM218++ per room per night with daily RM98.00 nett food and beverage spending credit, also accorded per room per night basis. Unused credit will be refunded at 50% of its value upon departure.

Honeymoon Package Treasure special moments with your loved one and celebrate your new journey together as ‘one’. The Equatorial Cameron Highlands Honeymoon Package starts from RM928.00++ per package inclusive of two nights accommodation in a suite room, strawberry platter with chocolate dip and welcome drink upon arrival, and candlelight dinner at the romantic Cricket Bistro.

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Cover Up Hit the snow with these stylish winter apparel

Code 20140 Ladies Knitted Scarf 100% Acrylic, RM59 (Promotional price, RM35.40)

Code 20161 Ladies 100% Acrylic Scarf, RM69 (Promotional price, RM41.40) Code 20117 Unisex Wool Mix Scarf, RM79 (Promotional price, RM47.40)

Code 80153 Ladies Polyester Parka, RM299 (Promotional price, RM239.20)

Code 89352 Ladies Polyester Down Parka, RM559 (Promotional price, RM391.30)

Code 10152 Ladies Wool Mix Cap, RM69 (Promotional price, RM41.40)

Code 10140 Ladies Knitted Scarf 100% Acrylic, RM59 (Promotional price, RM35.40)

Code 70177 Men Wool Mix Vest, RM159 (Promotional price, RM111.30) Code 88525 Men Detachable Down Parka, RM499 (Promotional price, RM349.30)

Code 89115, Men Reversible Parka RM459 (Promotional price, RM321.30) Code 70723 Men H/N Wool Mix Sweater, RM189 (Promotional price, RM151.20)

Code 70254 Ladies T/N Sweater Acrylic Mix, RM179 (Promotional price, RM125.30)

AVAILABLE AT MATTA FAIR | VISIT WWW.WINTERTIME.COM.MY FOR MORE INFORMATION

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Visit us at Hall 3 Booth No. 3138 & 3139

RM500 & above Cash Voucher and Luggage*

Purchase

FREE

*Please visit our booth for redemption details

*Terms & conditions apply

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THE TRAVEL TIMES Travel times Double spread.pdf

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* Above information accurate as at 24th February 2011.

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EXHIBITORS’ LIST

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Travel Times -

Exclusive Interviews Company: Cosmo Travel & Tours

Company: Parlo Tours

Interviewee: Hazel Sian (General Manager)

Interviewees: Carol Sum (Senior Operations Manager), Elaine Khoo (Marketing & Product Development Manager)

What is your agency’s Unique Selling Point (USP)?

As a service-oriented agency, we focus not only on product sales but also customer service. A simple thing like having a welcoming voice over phone conversations creates a friendly first impression which can in turn create great opportunities.

What differentiates you from your competitors?

Many customers know us through wordof-mouth. We listen to the feedback of our customers and customise their itinerary according to their desires.

Some customers are quite surprised and impressed that we are able to recognise them even after a long time!

Tell us about your company.

We started three years ago and we are also Insight Vacations’ preferred agent.

Is there anything new that we can expect?

We now offer ground packages to Europe and USA. It means that everything is arranged from the moment the customers touched down on the visiting country, excluding the air tickets.

Where are the popular destinations for Malaysians now?

More Malaysians are heading to Asian countries such as Hong Kong, Macau or China because it’s less costly. As they tend to go in larger groups (families), it’s better to travel to nearer destinations.

Where is your favourite travel destination? Why? Greece and Eastern Europe. These countries have such breathtaking sceneries and their historical architecture still retains an old world charm.

What is the must-see and must-try of that place?

You have to experience the luxurious and romantic lifestyle which you can hardly find here.

What is the most bizarre thing you’ve ever encountered?

I was quite shocked to witness the river festival in India. Thousands of people gathered at the river forming a spectacular sight which is something I’ve never seen before.

What is your overseas survival tip?

Choose the right weather to go and bring suitable clothing. You will also need to do research on local customs and cultures so as to avoid any embarrassing moments.

What is your agency’s Unique Selling Point (USP)?

As our customers are frequent travellers to many countries, we always provide fresh and interesting places and will come up with one or two major destinations every year.

Tell us about your company.

We started 30 years ago and specialise in outbound tours such as Europe, USA and Canada, South America, Australia and other exotic countries.

Is there anything new that we can expect?

The new places that we are introducing are Balkans in Europe and Turkey. It also depends on the airlines available to the different places. As close partners with the airlines, we are provided with more choices of countries that we can arrange for our customers.

What should a customer look out for when booking a tour package?

Customers should be clear on their decided destination. Trust between the customer and the agency is also important – trusting the itinerary prepared and the agency’s ability to deliver the content.

Where is your favourite travel destination? Why? Bhutan. It’s a very unique country as people are still dressed in their traditional clothes. With a clean environment, minimal high-rise buildings and good education system, one would be amazed that even the farmers can speak English!

What is the must-see and must-try of that place?

Tiger’s Nest, which is a monastery built on the side of the sheer cliff.

Where do you think is the best nightlife spot?

Las Vegas. This city has night clubs, magic shows, shopping centres, casinos… All of those that can keep you entertained all night long.

What is your overseas survival tip?

Bring a lot of money and credit cards, and have a lot of Facebook friends around the world (laughs!).

Company: Tradewinds Travel & Tours Interviewee: Mohd Khairy Abdul Rahim (General Manager) What differentiates you from your competitors?

We do not think ourselves like a travel agent, but more of a travel management company. We want to provide value at every point of transaction and communication – total solution regardless of segments (business, non-business).

We are consultants that provide not only solution but also additional perks for our customers. We are specialists that venture into niche markets.

Is there anything new that we can expect?

We are venturing into niche markets – cruise business (board from Penang and Singapore, and other ports for major cruise liners like RCCL, Costa and Princess); golfing (MICE for corporate) – tournament-based with premium accommodation and only restricted to small groups of less than eight members.

Where is your favourite travel destination? Why?

between the table-mountain and the ocean. It’s safe and warm, and the view is just mind-blowing.

What is the must-see and must-try of that place?

The food and sightseeing in Cape Town are awesome. You have got to try it yourself! The service of the people in this city is so great that I could hardly find fault in them.

What is the most bizarre thing you’ve ever encountered?

India was a culture shock for me. There were hundreds of taxis crowding outside the airport with no aircon and side mirrors.

It was really bizarre and completely different from what I expected.

Where do you think is the best nightlife spot?

Phuket.

What is your overseas survival tip?

You must have a set of clothes in your carry-on bag. Baggage might get lost or arrive late, and it is essential to have a fresh set of clothing for change. Credit cards are also important for travelling overseas.

Cape Town is a beautiful city that lies

Company: Malaysian Harmony Interviewee: Cooper Huang (CEO) What differentiates you from your competitors?

We are more diversified in terms of services. We cater to customers of different categories. For example, we have specially designed packages for our Muslim customers, which include bringing them to Muslim-friendly restaurants and hotels. We also cover destinations like Europe, Russia, USA, and Canada.

Tell us about your company.

With more than 30 years of experience, Malaysian Harmony is one of the top agents for the major airlines under International Air Transport Association (IATA). We deliver unique and exclusive travel experiences with utmost diligence.

Is there anything new that we can expect?

There will be premium tours based on customers’ requests. If a customer desires to stay in a five-star hotel, we will fulfill his/ her request. We also have a multiple airline portal – easy online access for users to

check travel related issues. For example, just key in London and 10 different available airlines would be available for their reference.

Where is your favourite travel destination? Why? I like Korea for its unique food, and I feel comfortable with their culture. Taiwan is also another destination which I love. The food and people in Taiwan are really nice which is always a temptation for me to go back again.

What is the must-see and must-try of that place?

The hot springs, spa, home-stay and farm-stay are the must-tries in Taiwan.

As for Korea, don’t miss out skiing and kimchi-making, which are really interesting.

What is the most bizarre thing you’ve ever encountered?

There was once when I went to Dubai and stayed in a suite that cost RM27,000 a night. The suite has three levels and it was luxury at its best.

What is your overseas survival tip?

Don’t bring too many bags overseas, just buy it there instead.

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TTN: Leading The Way Being a name you can trust for travel, TTN provides special airfares for leisure, business, student and group travelling. TTN offers leisure travel packages for individuals, families, group incentives, group departure dates, honeymoon packages, religious travel, cruises as well as custom made packages to suit travellers, covering Southeast Asia, Asia, Australia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and North and South America.

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TTN consolidates its standing as a leading travel agency in Malaysia with quality service, value for money, and great offers at MATTA Fair 2011.

London

Special Offers

TTN offers attractive packages for both domestic and international destinations that are great value for money.

Under Lufthansa City Center, with network links of over 600 travel agencies from 80 countries, TTN is committed to providing quality and reliable services for both individual and business travellers.

Plan your holiday and grab the offers at MATTA Fair 2011 by visiting our booth at 2194-2203, 2006 and 2007, Hall 2 at PWTC. These offers are also valid for these three days at our offices at KLCC (03-21618134) and TTDI (03-7729 1044). Visit our website at www.triways.com.my which showcases all the travel products on offer.

Venice

Packages To Suit All Being one of the biggest travel agencies in the market, prices offered by TTN are among the best in the market.

Winning numerous awards consecutively for top selling performance, TTN maintains good relationships with major airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Emirates and many others that have access to the best destinations for holidays.

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Europe offers multidestinations packages and remains a popular destination for international travellers

YTL Resorts offers value for money packages

IMAGES: Triways Travel

T

riways Travel Network (M) Sdn Bhd (TTN) is a leading travel agency in Malaysia. TTN celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and remains a top choice in providing travel services.

In conjunction with the March 2011 MATTA Fair, TTN offers special airfares, a choice of travel products with attractive destinations and tour packages providing the best holiday experiences at value prices.

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Enjoy the Blooms of Spring and Sunny Summer with Apple Vacations

Picking cherries and apples is an experience of the Hokkaido Summer Tour.

S

pring, between end-March and mid-June, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C, is the perfect time to catch a glimpse of the blossoming flowers. In countries with four distinct seasons, it’s not difficult to tell when spring has set in. Spring in Taiwan, Korea, China and Japan, is a time when people are captivated by the beauty of sakura. Apple Vacations will not let you miss any chance to miss the sakura season!

Apple Vacations’ Taiwan, Korea, China and Japan Sakura Tour depart almost daily.

Summer, between end-June and mid-September, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C, is a time when you must travel to China (Beijing, Shanghai, Zhangjiajie, Huangshan, Kunming, Guilin, Silk Road, etc), Taiwan and

Direct-Chartered Flight To Hokkaido

Apple Vacations accompanies you to the enchanting purple world of summer Hokkaido.

Korea! During this period, tour fees can be lowered than usual by up to 50%! This is also the season to satisfy your shopping needs as annual sales are held at factory outlet stores across Korea and Taiwan.

Other specially crafted tours include trips to Northern Europe (Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden), Eastern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, South Africa, Greece, Turkey, South America, Spain, Portugal, Morocco and more.

Apple Vacations Sdn Bhd’s managing director, Dato Desmond Lee, believes that in 2011, in-depth and thematic tours will be the main forms of vacation. Moving ahead, Apple Vacations will continue launching quality and affordable tours, bringing you on an extraordinary journey!

Last December, Apple Vacations took the extraordinary step of launching direct-chartered flights to Hokkaido! In a span of four months since its launch, we have chartered five planes from Malaysia Airlines, four direct-chartered trips and one semi-chartered trip, bringing a thousand travellers to experience a white winter in Hokkaido. This is an unprecedented move in Malaysia!

Due to overwhelming response, we are launching another four direct flights to Hokkaido this summer.

Bringing you and your love ones on a Furano lavender tour, experiencing the romantic purple fields of summer!

Dato Desmond Lee, JP, will be the guide to this in-depth tour named “This is The Journey”. How can you miss this chance to go on such an exotic trip! The three direct flights to Hokkaido this July would depart on the 8th, 14th and 20th of July. (Please note: There might be changes to departure dates and details.)

Apple Vacation’s New Departments Apple Vacations has set up a few new departments to provide you with a more professional and personalised experience. For instance, Apple West, which was set up the year before, has brought you on more thematic tours in western countries. In addition, there’s Apple Flexi, which provides information and route recommendations to independent travellers. On top of that, we have Apple 101, a digital platform providing free e-magazines, travel information, accommodation reservation (connected to 92 countries), online shopping and more. Please drop by for a chat with our travel agents during the MATTA Travel Fair!

During the MATTA Fair, you can enjoy special privileges and even get a discount of up to RM1200 (per pair), when you sign up for tour at Hall 1 or directly at Apple Vacations.

For further enquires, please call 03-2141 8250 or 03-2143 3939. Alternatively, you may visit www.appleholiday.com MATTA Booth Numbers: Apple Vacations: Hall 1 – 1130-1151, 1162-1183 (24 Booths) Apple Flexi Holiday: Hall 1 – 1159, 1160, 1161 (3 Booths) Apple 101: Hall 3 – 3040 (1 Booth)

IMAGES: Apple Vacations

March is the perfect time to embark on a vacation as flowers bloom in spectacular colours. Let Apple Vacations take you to some of the hottest new destinations this spring and summer, and view some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

Apple Vacations Sdn Bhd’s managing director, Dato Desmond Lee, believes in 2011, in-depth and thematic tours will be the main forms of vacation.

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Beautiful Planet

TM

亮星假期

www.beautifulplanetholiday.com

WIN f F O ort l e e

11-13 MARCH, 2011

03 - 7805 5506

Maldives

Stand a chance to a 5-Day Holidays in Maldives or RM 1000 worth travel vouchers

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From

RM

5 days or more

3xxx

for 2pax

*Terms & Conditions apply

$

$

$

$

7 3 8 $ 3 0 0 0 04 $ $ 4 00 0 0 0 0 05 0 0 0

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$ 3 6 $ 5 $ 5 $ 9 0 0 0 0 3 $ 0 0 00 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 0

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$

Buy 1 Free 1

Hotels + Meals +Tours + Airport Transfer

Bangkok Phuket Chiang Mai Krabi Hatyai

399 RM 399 RM 399 RM 399 RM 299 RM

Taiwan

3 + 1 Free

Hong Kong Hong Kong Shen Zheng Guang Zhou

3 + 1 Free From RM 999 *Free China VISA for min 10 pax booking

Dept Date 7/4, 14/4, 21/4, 28/4, 5/5, 12/5, 19/5, 26/5, 2/6, 9/6, 16/6, 23/6, 30/6

Korea

$

Bali Full Board 4 Days From RM 999 Turtle Island 10 + 1 Free

by MAS Airline

Visit us at HALL 1, Booths 1295-1297 & 1300

*Special Meal

Shopping & Sightseeing

Bali

Free & Easy 2 to go

1688

From RM Dept Date 7/4, 14/4, 21/4, 28/4, 5/5, 12/5, 19/5, 26/5, 2/6, 9/6, 16/6, 23/6, 30/6, 7/7, 14/7, 21/7, 28/7, 4/8, 11/8, 18/8, 27/8, 31/8, 8/9, 15/9, 22/9, 29/9

All Taiwan 7 Days

Taroko Big Cliff Sun Moon Lake For Guang San & more

399 1 + 1 Free From RM

Korea 7 Days Jeju Island Nami Island Mt. Sorak Ginseng SPA & more

4-5 star Hotel

2588 10 + 1 Free From RM

Dept Date 6/4, 13/4, 20/4, 27/4, 4/5, 11/5, 18/5, 25/5, 1/6, 8/6, 15/6, 22/6, 29/6, 6/7, 13/7, 20/7, 27/7, 3/8, 10/8, 17/8, 24/8, 31/8

*Public holidays & school holidays & local high seasons are subject to surcharge

Thailand

is a country with fantastic destinations waiting to be explored. Many of these destinations are little known outside the kingdom.

At Beautiful Planet Holiday, we are keen to showcase these places and make them better known to visitors from all over the world.

Beautiful Planet

Come to Matta Fair & speak with our Travel Consultants Hall 1, Booth 12951297 & 1300

just RM399

For , you have the opportunity to visit any of these fantastic destinations in Thailand, with either pick-ups at the Hatyai, Krabi and Bangkok airports.

Must-Visit Destinations of Amazing Thailand Brought to You by Beautiful Planet Holiday

Emerald Sea Cave is a beautiful cave passage on the island of Ko Prasat Hin Phimai Muk, in the sea off Trang, in southern Thailand. It can only be entered by boat during low tide. Visitors will be enthrilled by the sight of the towering limestone cliffs within the cave and the hidden beach as well.

Twin Islands

are a pair of islets in the sea off Krabi. The islets, called Koh Tap and Koh Mor, are linked by a sand bar. Visitors can walk across from one island to the other during low tide. It feels like walking in the sea.

Pink Dolphin Watching

Hatyai is renowned as a shopping destination. However, many people do not know that the sea off Hatyai is popular for dolphin watching, particularly pink dolphins, which get their pinkish pigmentation at an old age. At Beautiful Planet Holiday, we organise regular pink-dolphin watching boat trips.

A highlight of visiting Prasat Hin Phimai is to observe the ruins during sunrise and sunset, when the ray of sunlight penetrates right into the inner sanctuary. It is an example of the architectural achievement of the ancient Khmer builders.

Crystal Pool & Hot Waterfall

Krabi has numerous natural geological attractions. Among them include the Crystal Pool and Hot Waterfall. The Crystal Pool or Sra Morakot, is a crystal-clear pool located within a mangrove area.

Despite the surrounding marshes, the water of the pool has remained clear through natural filtration. The Hot Waterfall is a hot spring that cascades over natural pools to empty into a river below.

They are local attractions that are beginning to be discovered by foreign visitors.

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Promoting Indonesia At Its Best For an unforgettable trip to Indonesia book a holiday with AF Travel

T

he name Indonesia has its roots in two Greek words: ‘Indos’ meaning Indian and ‘Nesos’ which means islands. It is an appropriate description of the archipelago as there are estimated to be a total of 17,508 islands, of which only about 6,000 are inhabited, stretching for 5,150 km between the Australian and Asian continental mainland and dividing the Pacific and Indian Oceans at the equator.

During MATTA Fair, our all-time favourite sells from as low as RM408 for a three days two nights package to Bali, get a complimentary third night stay absolutely free.

The price also includes daily breakfast, return Denpasar airport-hotel transfers and choice of a full day sightseeing.

Not only that, we are giving away a free culinary voucher at Hard Rock Café and 30 minutes massage at participating hotels and resorts.

AF_Ad_250x170mm_colour_O.pdf

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AF Travel offers many more destinations such as Lombok, Jogja and Java among others. Packages covers from leisure to romance and escape to breakaway.

Book your holiday during MATTA Fair with us and enjoy savings up to RM240 per couple on selected packages.

Our office will be opened on Saturday and Sunday (12 and 13 March) from 9.30am-6pm and from March 2011 onwards, our office will be operating every Saturdays.

Best Airfare Deals From budget airlines to premium airlines, economy class cabin to first class cabin, we are the appointed agent for most of the major airlines. Namely, Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia, Firefly, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Etihad, Qatar Airways and many more.

Booking With AF Travel AF Travel commenced business in 1958 as a branch of Anglo-French Trading (Pte) Ltd Singapore and is now

part of a larger group of regional travel companies. The company enjoys a good reputation for providing friendly, reliable and personalised service. Some of our clients have been with us for decades. The company has two outlets, one centrally located at Jalan Bukit Nanas and another at the upmarket shopping complex of Solaris Dutamas which is a newly developed residential, shop lots, and office suites area with 5,000 parking bays available.

Whenever you are looking for great value packages to Indonesia or special airfares, look out for AF Travel this MATTA Fair from 11-13 March 2011 at Booth No.3242 and 3258, Tun Razak Hall 3, Level 3, PWTC. For more information, please call 03-6207 9383 / email inquiry@aftravel.com.my or log on to www.aftravel.com.my

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Be Wowed By Indonesia Jakarta and Bandung are hives of activities for business and leisure and a paradise for shoppers, offering upscale boutiques selling top brand names, to local goods at road-side stalls. Here gourmets can treat you to the many regions’ delectable spicy cuisine or dine sumptuously at international restaurants.

In Jogja’s Malioboro Street, rows of shops and outlets sell many kinds of souvenirs you can bring back home.

If you want to test your negotiation skills you can try to haggle with the street vendors. All’s fair in love and shopping.

Spa & Beauty For sheer relaxation, Indonesia’s spas are second to none. Bali, as an evergreen leisure destination, is home to hundreds of spas with authentic traditional Balinese spa and beauty treatment to pamper you.

11-13 MARCH, 2011

Natural Beauty A nature-based experience can be easily had in Indonesia.

One place is Lombok Island. The northern part of the island is mountainous and lush with tall trees and shrubs.

The south, on the other hand is arid and covered by savannas. Large Asian mammals are absent and replaced instead by marsupials, lizards, cockatoos and parrots.

Whether you want to indulge in non-stop shopping or feel like pampering yourself at a top quality spa, a holiday in Indonesia can meet your every need.

Shopping & Dining

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Discover WOW Indonesia

Try the Balinese body massage for kneading and sliding to sooth tired and aching muscles as well as for preventive treatment to your body or enjoy body lulur, a spice exfoliation and polishing process which has been practised in the palaces of Bali and Java since centuries. Or simply seat back and relax to the Balinese Facial experience with relaxing face massage, one of the royal Balinese beauty care treatment to pamper your face.

WOW Indonesia has all the holiday packages to select to meet your leisure and holiday needs. As a leading Destination Holiday Planner in Indonesia, we know your holiday needs and how to fulfil your requirements. We have a wide selection of hotels, resorts and villas, a constantly innovating list of touring options, and carefully selected meals and dining venues, ensuring that you are provided with the best available options in the selected destination.

Discover us and easily contact our WOW Indonesia Expert Travel Agents:

Art & Heritage

• AF Travel, 03-6207 9383 • Boustead Travel, 03-2031 6001 • Eden Tours, 03-2148 3880 • Golden Tourword Travel, 03-2118 7288 • Golden Tropics Travel & Tour, 03-9506 3388 • Holiday Tours & Travel, 03-6286 6288 • Holiday Asia Network, 03-4291 2163 • Orange Holiday World, 03-2053 0505 • PNL Travel, 03-9284 4859 • Tradewinds Travel & Tours, 03-7967 0888 • Worldtravellers-DMC, 03-9133 3233

Indonesia is home to the Borobudur Temple, one of the world’s wonders. The City of Yogyakarta (or Jogjakarta), known as The Neverending Asia, is the second most visited destination in Indonesia, next to Bali. Many say that a single visit to Jogja is never enough. The list of things you can experience in Jogja may seem overwhelming, ranging from natural splendors, art and tradition and heritages to culinary adventures.

Visit Us at PWTC - MATTA FAIR , 11 -13 March 2011

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The India Specialist RM1888

6D Kashmir

More Great Deals at Our Booth Come Visit Us! , PWTC Hall 1 Booth : 1316,1317,1318,1319

RM2888

10D Taj Mahal Kashmir

RM3188

10D Buddhist Pilgrimage

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11-13 MARCH, 2011

(171323 K) (KKKP 1439)

RM2488

Other Exotic Destinations

8D Sikkim Nepal

RM1188

4D Cochin

RM1788

5D Bollywood RM888

3D Chennai Shopping

5D Delhi - Agra

6D Shimla RM1098

4D Hyderabad

5D Best of Kerala RM1198

4D Bangalore

RM1588

Tibet RM15888

10D Palace on Wheels

Sri Lanka

6D Delhi - Agra - Jaipur

 min 2pax  meals at Hotel** BEST  return direct flight inclusive BUY  resort/city centre hotels  Fatehpur Sikri*  bazaar shopping  every THURSDAY guaranteed departure  Palace of Winds*  lotus shaped temple Shopping: Gems, Marble, Textile, Leather  most popular holiday destination in India

www.dhesu.travel

RM1888

 FREE elephant* + jeep ride*  FREE entrances worth USD50pp  FREE rajasthani night* (group)  exclusive tour + RM100 * only for 6D program

5/6D Taj Mahal from RM1388

tours@dhesu.travel

Tel : 603-2692 5525 / 2691 6999

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True Blue Aussie Experiences See our Aussie Specialists for exciting offers from seat-in-coach tours to selfdrive adventures and mini group touring.

The Mysterious Wave Rock

Club Med Buy 1 Free 1

4D3N Cherating

2 adults

RM 2145 for 1 adult From

2 adults

5D4N Bali

RM 2480 for 1 adult

5D4N Phuket

RM 2480 for 1 adult

From

2 adults

From

A

ustralia Citipac, the perennial favourite amongst travellers will be available for those looking for a hassle-free and relaxing vacation where all you need to do is hop onboard a touring coach for your choice of sightseeing. Available for all states, our Australia Citipac packages include accommodation, breakfast, return airport-hotel transfers and one tour option with additional value adds such as a FREE tour or dining vouchers and more.

For the more adventurous, Australia is the ideal country for a self-drive adventure of your own beyond the city. Fret not as we have pre-planned the self-drive itineraries complete with the best places to stay, the not-to-be-missed sights as well as the best available car rental rates to make sure you get the most out of

Strictly for bookings from 11-13 March 2011 Includes welcome drink + accommodation + 3 sumptuous international buffet meals daily + all-day bar & snacking (alcohol and non-alcoholic) + unlimited wine & beer during lunch and dinner + a variety of land & sea activities with tuition + nightly entertainment + Kids Club.

your adventure.

For a ‘family and friends’ vacation, our Mini Group itineraries lets you enjoy absolute privacy and flexibility with the vehicle and guide at your disposal should you decide to explore a little longer at selected attractions or detour slightly from your planned itineraries.

Treasures Of Europe A world of history, wonderful sceneries, exciting discoveries and experiences…. Europe’s the place to be and Trafalgar’s the way to go!

Air-inclusive Destination

4D3N Mauritius

2 adults

RM 5526 for 1 adult From

Unique Accommodations

5D4N Maldives on Beach Bungalows

2 adults RM 8040 for 1 adult 2 adults From

RM 8600 for 1 adult From

on Lagoon Suites

11-13 MARCH, 2011

Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic

U

nlock Europe’s richness and vibrancy with our wide range of regional Europe tours. With longer stays in most destinations, we’ll delve deeper into the heart of a particular country or region for a more indepth experience of a destination.

Alternatively, go on one of our European Discoveries tours where you will travel through multi-countries most popular in Europe. Our European Discoveries tours are interspersed with exclusive Trafalgar experiences like the Hidden Treasures which show you authentic local experiences that you may never discover on any other tours or on your own.

Travel validity: 16 Mar - 31 Oct 2011

Discover great Italian cities in all their glory. Immerse yourself in the regal splendor of England, the beauty of the Irish and Welsh countryside or the pageantry of Scotland.

Terms and conditions apply.

Blackout period may apply for selected dates. Above prices are based on ground cost only except for Mauritius which includes return flight tickets (excluding taxes & fuel surcharge).

Mauritius and Maldives packages include return airport transfers for 2 persons.

For a tour with a twist, head on to the Eastern part of Europe which includes the green hills of Slovenia and its beautiful glacial Lake Bled which has been nicknamed an ‘earthly paradise’. Or venture to Croatia, home of Split, the beautiful city by the sea and the amazingly beautiful coast of Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic.

Booths 1093-97 1120-24 (Hall 1)

Come and visit us!

PWTC, Hall 1 11-13 March 2011, 10am-9pm

Visit our offices from 9am to 6pm or log on to www.holidaytours.com.my KL Head Office: Co. No. 23070-H (KKKP: 0424)

A-0-1, Block A, No. 1, Jalan Seri Utara 1, Sri Utara, Off Jalan Ipoh, 68100 Kuala Lumpur

Petaling Jaya :

03-6286 6288 (KKKP:0424) 03-6286 6019 (KKKP:3705)

Penang: Johor Bahru: Kuantan:

04-238 2628 (KKKP:1096) 07-276 7110 (KKKP:1543) 09-516 4051 (KKKP:2707)

Our Eastern Europe journey will also include the enchanting Czech Republic, also known as the ‘Paris of the East’. This magical city of bridges, cathedrals, gold-tipped towers and church domes is rightly regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

For those looking for a visual feast on your Europe vacation, check out scenic Scandinavia to the north of Europe. Your Scandinavia adventure includes Copenhagen, one of Scandinavia’s liveliest cities and Stockholm, the capital and largest city of Sweden.

Like what you hear? Check out our exciting packages for Domestic, Asean, Australia, Europe, USA and Exotic.

Visit Holiday Tours at booths 1093-97, 1120-24 & 1109-10 @ Hall 1 (for international packages) or 3030-31 @ Hall 3 (for domestic packages) or contact 03-6286 6288 for more information.

IMAGES: Holiday Tours

Double-up your holiday cheer!

|

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Discover

Europe’s renowned treasures

18 to 35 years old?

with award-winning Trafalgar Tours

Ho����o�����o�t���

for cool adventures!

p to iki’s eu t Sav n Con o o G 25%Grab ‘na’ ls De

Save up to 20% on Last Minute Deals

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Save

Save

RM269

RM310

per person

per person

Save

Save

RM320

RM384

per person

10D The Little Hopper

12D The Escape

Normal price

Normal price

RM3149

RM2880

Discounted price

RM3661

RM3351

Discounted price

per person

5D Taste of Britain

8D Irish Wonder RM3197

Normal price

Discounted price

RM2877

RM3837

Normal price

RM3453

Discounted price

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Save

Save

RM408 Save

per person

Save

RM328

RM379

per person

per person

7D London & Paris RM3280

RM2952

Discounted price

per person

9D Spanish Experience RM3792

Normal price

8D Italian Dream

RM4080

Normal price

8D Italian Espresso

Normal price

RM448

Discounted price

RM3672

Save

Save

RM448

RM480

per person

RM403

RM333

RM4029

Discounted price

RM3413

Discounted price

Save

Save

RM4477

Normal price

per person

per person

per person

9D Greek Island Adventurer

10D European Horizon RM3898

Normal price

RM3565

Discounted price

Save

RM4029

Normal price

RM3626

Discounted price

13D Mediterranean Highlights RM5232

Normal price

Discounted price

RM4709

RM5424

Normal price

RM4882

Discounted price

Ground prices per person. Includes accommodation, meals and sightseeing as per itinerary. Terms and conditions apply.

Booths 1093-97 1120-24 (Hall 1)

Co. No. 23070-H (KKKP: 0424)

A-0-1, Block A, No. 1, Jalan Seri Utara 1, Sri Utara, Off Jalan Ipoh, 68100 Kuala Lumpur

Petaling Jaya:

03-6286 6288 (KKKP:0424) 03-6286 6019 (KKKP:3705)

Penang: Johor Bahru: Kuantan:

04-238 2628 (KKKP:1096) 07-276 7110 (KKKP:1543) 09-516 4051 (KKKP:2707)

RM4797

Normal price

RM4317

Discounted price

Save

RM704 per person

11D European Delight

13D Highlights of France RM6240

Normal price

Discounted price

RM5616

RM7037

Normal price

RM6333

Discounted price

Ground prices per person based on twin sharing basis. Includes accommodation, meals and sightseeing as per itinerary. Terms and conditions apply.

Come and visit us!

PWTC, Hall 1 11-13 March 2011, 10am-9pm

Visit our offices from 9am to 6pm or log on to www.holidaytours.com.my KL Head Office:

RM4029

per person

per person

14D Spanish Spree

Discounted price

RM624

RM542

per person

10D Imperial Highlights RM4477

Normal price

Save

Save

RM523

7D Glimpse of Europe

Booths 1093-97 1120-24 (Hall 1)

Come and visit us!

PWTC, Hall 1 11-13 March 2011, 10am-9pm

Visit our offices from 9am to 6pm or log on to www.holidaytours.com.my KL Head Office: Co. No. 23070-H (KKKP: 0424)

A-0-1, Block A, No. 1, Jalan Seri Utara 1, Sri Utara, Off Jalan Ipoh, 68100 Kuala Lumpur

Petaling Jaya :

03-6286 6288 (KKKP:0424) 03-6286 6019 (KKKP:3705)

Penang: Johor Bahru: Kuantan:

04-238 2628 (KKKP:1096) 07-276 7110 (KKKP:1543) 09-516 4051 (KKKP:2707)

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Agent Perfect

Golden Route Grandeur

Dep: 26, 28 March & 2, 3 April & etc

From

RM3,990

Alpine Route Breakaway

Dep: 21 May, 4, 18 Jun & etc

From

RM4,550

South Tohoku Masterpiece

Dep: 16, 17 April & etc

From

RM4,250

North Tohoku Classic

Dep: 22, 23 April & etc

From

RM4,550

Hokkaido Splendours

Dep: 8, 14 May & etc

From

RM4,990

Hokkaido Flower Discovery

Dep: 13, 21 May & etc

From

RM5,770

Japan Sea Encounter

Dep: 21 May & etc

From

RM4,550

Kyushu Indulgence

Dep: 19, 26 Mar & etc

From

RM4,250

6 Days 5 Night s 6 Days 5 Night s 7 Days 5 Night s 7 Days 4 Night s 7 Days 4 Night s 7 Days 5 Night s 6 Days 5 Night s 6 Days 5 Night s

*other terms & conditions apply.

J

apan Travel Bureau (JTB) boasts one of the largest travel agencies in Japan.

Statistically proven, it’s the fourth largest travel company in the world. To uphold such a reputation, JTB has proven itself by being the number one Japanese inbound operator in Malaysia, bringing in about 25,000 Japanese tourists every year, and is also an increasingly active outbound operator in this country.

Numbers aside, what differentiates JTB from other tour agencies is the reliability of its services. JTB understands the needs of their customers. By bringing the best quality service to the table, they ensure products presented are worth customers’ every cent. Starting from personal consultation, air tickets, and accommodation arrangements to guided shopping trips, every detail is covered with diligence.

JTB has also come up with meticulously designed brochures and booklets for customers’ reference. These beautifully illustrated, high quality brochures reflect the agency’s constant impetus for improvement and quality service. With no hidden costs and easy access to products and services (eg JR Rail Passes, chartered cars, coaches and licensed tour guides), JTB has earned the trust and confidence of its customers over the past decades.

Visit our booths at MATTA FAIR Booth No.: Hall 1 - 1315 & 1324

JAPAN TRAVEL BUREAU (MALAYSIA) SDN BHD

Unit 16.05~16.07, Level 16, Amoda Bldg., 22 Jalan Imbi 55100 Kuala Lumpur.

Fax: 03-2142 5344 E-mail: outbound@jtbmalaysia.com.my Website: www.jtbmalaysia.com

KPL/LN:1878(200323-V)

Destinations At Unbelievable Values India 5 Days Bollywood 6 Days Taj Mahal 6 Days Kerala Houseboat 7 Days North India 7 Days Kashmir/Taj Mahal 9 Days Kashmir Experience

RM

2688 RM 2880 RM 3180 RM 3680 RM

RM

3980

RM

6800

Turkey

9 Days Turkey Experience

Europe

7 Days London Experience 7 Days Paris/London

6800 RM 9800

RM

Spain

11 Days Andalusia by Rail

3580

RM

8880

China

6 Days Beijing Muslim Tour

5800 7800 RM 6980 12 Days Syria/Jordan/Jerusalem RM 9980 Uzbekistan 8 Days Samarkand/Bukhara 5180 Thailand 6 Days Kebun Dapur 2680 Egypt 8 Days Cairo/Alexandria RM 4680 10 Days Egyptian Cruise RM 4980

8 Days Syria Experience 8 Days Jordan/Al Aqsa 10 Days Syria/Jordan

RM RM

RM

RM

Suite A, Level 1, Wisma Kraftangan, No. 9 Jln Tun Perak, 50050 Kuala Lumpur.

Web : www.ibctours.com

2180

Syria/Jordan/Jerusalem

IBC Tours Corporation (M) Bhd (KPL/LN NO 2876) Tel : 03-2692 4323 / 313 / 305

RM

Fax : 03-2692 4332

Email : ibc@streamyx.com

Visit us at

Booth 2021 (Hall 2)

IMAGE: Darren Wong

Get a free T-shirt w ith any purchase d of J apan tour product or a round trip ticke t from Malaysia to J apan during MATTA FAIR 2011.

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Taiwan_TT2011.ai

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THE TRAVEL TIMES

7:37 PM

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11-13 MARCH, 2011

i Taipe

Visit Taiwan and Feel the Centennial Excitement

MATTA FAIR (11th – 13th March)

Welcome to Taiwan and enjoy its impressive fireworks displays, cycling adventures, beautiful flora expo and vibrant night markets!

With ten travel themes and 100 magical routes, our itineraries are set to touch your heart in many ways.

Great Gifts for Visitors in 2011!

For more information about 100 travel routes, please visit http://100.taiwan.net.tw http://www.facebook.com/100taiwan http://www.plurk.com/tourtaiwan100

FREE Taiwan High Mountain Oo Long Tea with every purchase of Taiwan Tour Package in MATTA Fair, free gifts will be collected in Taiwan Tourism booth at Hall 1, booth 1184-1188, 1191-1195, 1218-1222. Limited Stocks! Hurry Up, while stocks last!

With any purchase of a Taiwan Free & Easy package, you’ll entitle a Taipei MRT (Subway) ticket. ( Feb - Jun). While stocks last!

For more details, please visit the Taiwan Tourism Bureau website: www.welcome2taiwan.net

06th November 2010 - 25th April 2011

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Exclusively Parlo

P

arlo Tours brings you the two hottest destinations this MATTA Fair – Balkans and Turkey. Specialised in outbound tours such as Europe, USA and Canada, South America and exotic Egypt and Jordan, Parlo Tours never fails to impress.

Balkans Bran Dracula’s Castle, Romania In between Bucegi and Piatra Craiului Mountains stands the legendary fortress – Dracula’s Castle. Built in 1377 and inhabited by Vlad the Impaler, better known as Dracula, this spectacular castle seems to possess a deep, dark secret that battles to remain covert.

Postjona Caves & “Human Fish”, Slovenia Wondrously sculpted galleries, chambers and halls reside at Postjona Caves, which boast the longest cave system in Slovenia. Expect to see gigantic chambers that are able to hold as many as 10,000 people, and the endemic olm, otherwise known as “Human Fish”, due to its skin colour.

These creatures are notable residents of the darkness with its ability to adapt without natural lights.

Lake Bled, Slovenia Set against the picturesque splendour of mountains and forests, this impressive glacial lake stretches 2,120m long and up to 1,380m wide. Formed after the recession of the Bohinj glacier at the end of Ice Age, Lake Bled is well known among rowers for its adequate condition to perform such sport. A red and white medieval castle on the northern shore of Lake Bled offers a great view of the lake and the island surrounding it.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia UNESCO declared Plitvice Lakes National Park as a world heritage site in 1979. Its astounding beauty lies in the beautiful lakes, travertine waterfall and limestone caves. Heavily forested with beech, spruce and fir trees, it is home to a wide

variety of animals and bird species such as bears, lynx, fox, blackbirds and woodpeckers. This national park is perfect for hiking and photography.

Boyana Church, Bulgaria This is one of the few complete and perfectly preserved medieval monuments of the east European medieval art. The frescoes of the interior were layered according to different periods from 11th to 19th century. This church as undergone numerous transformation and extensions, and currently consists of three buildings. The paintings with the most outstanding artistic value are those from the 13th century.

FROM TOP: Lake Bled, Boyana Church

Turkey Turkey has become the next hottest destination for travellers around the world. Forget Ancient City of Troy or Goreme Valley Open Air Museum. Parlo Tours redefines ‘fun’ in a whole new level with their exclusive features that guarantee you a fulfilling and deluxe experience with affordable price.

Safari Ride One of the most exciting adventures in Cappadocia, jeep safari ride allows one to observe an unobstructed view of this region’s unique landscapes and structures with its open-top jeep vehicle. Magnificent valley and rock formations with brilliant horizon, there is endless discovery in this beautiful area.

Parlo Tours is the first and only travel agency in Malaysia to offer a voyage to Love Valley, Pigeon Valley and Hunting Valley. Take the chance to discover the lifestyle of the village people, see a variety of plants and animals, and snap away with your camera in this unforgettable adventure.

FROM LEFT: 4x4 Jeep safari ; Cappadocia

Service Upgrade By bringing their quality and service a notch higher, Parlo Tours now introduce an upgrade from normal to a fivestar accommodation throughout the whole journey. That includes an exotic stay at the Cave Hotel in Cappadocia, which is located in a restored thousand-year-old Byzantine monastic retreat. Be guaranteed to a unique lodging experience, as the exceptionally beautiful rooms with panoramic views are bound to capture your heart.

IMAGES Turkey Tourism; Parlo Tours; 123rf

Each room within the Cave Hotel is designed differently and has its own unique attributes. The juxtaposition of modernity with ancient sensation in this hotel let one enjoys cave-living in modern style.

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Pangkor Island Beach Resort - Rest, Relax & Rejuvenate

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Located in between Penang and Kuala Lumpur, the journey from the country’s capital takes only between 3 to 3.5 hours until the coastal city of Lumut, either by car or limousine coach, offering a scenic landscape that is an experience by itself. *Alternatively, Arwana Private Coach transfer is available from MATIC Building (opposite Renaissance Kuala Lumpur) to Lumut Jetty 03 (three) times a week (Wednesday, Friday & Sunday).

From Lumut, a short 30 minutes ferry journey in the calm waters of the strait, leads to the resort’s private jetty.

Surrounded by hills of virgin rain forest, sitting on a secluded and privately-owned bay over a 1.2km stretch of white sandy beach on the warm and clean Andaman sea and sheltered by the north end of the Sumatra island, the resort promises, except for some occasional showers, year round sunshine.

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IMAGE: Pangkor Island Beach Resort

A true jewel on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Pangkor Island Beach Resort is the perfect getaway from the metropolitan life to rest, relax and rejuvenate.

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Think “With No Box”

B

eing one of the key players in this industry since 1995, Tradewinds Travel adapts to changes as quickly as a Facebook user changes his status. Thinking outside the box is no longer sufficient for this travel management provider. The trendsetting travel population today is tech-savvy, and possesses clear objective even before professional consultation. Therefore possible solutions for all travel segments from leisure, corporate, family, honeymooners to special interest group and constant improvement are of cardinal importance for this innovative team.

IMAGES: Tradewinds Travel and Tours

Similar to a bespoke tailor who customises your tuxedo to the perfect fit, Tradewinds Travel’s way of doing business is so personal that recommendations, value-added services and solutions are like a three-course meal – from starters to dessert. Your requests are taken into serious consideration so as to ensure a perfect getaway for you, your family and your friends.

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Visit the Lonely Planet Booth at

Mezzanine Floor,

?

GUESS THE WEIGHT, MATCH THE WEIGHT

STAND TO WIN ATTRACTIVE GIFTS BY UNIVERSAL TRAVELLER.

M083 & M084 To take part, simply subscribe to 6 issues of Lonely Planet Asia Magazines at RM76 (usual price: RM90) to be entitled a chance.

HOW TO WIN 1. Guess the weight of the luggage from the selection.

2. Pack the winter clothes into the luggage.

3. Match the weight of the luggage and winter clothes to 20kg.

4. If the weight matches, you will receive a FREE gift.

Visit the Lonely Planet Booth at

Mezzanine Floor,

M083 & M084

FREE • 100 Japan Goodie Bags. (while stocks last) • Photoshoot with purchase of 3 Lonely Planet Asia Magazines.

• The best photo wins a Lonely Planet Japan Guide Book.

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DISCOVER, EXPLORE & EXPERIENCE THE WORLD VOLUME 2 ISSUE 2

* Learn about the

UNSUNG ITALY  BALI’S ENCHANTING CEREMONIES  WINE AND WILDLIFE IN SOUTH AFRICA  CHICAGO, CELLULOID CITY

people and customs of Bali * Explore unsung Italy without the crowds * Perfect Trip: South Africa – the best of the Western Cape * Visit the distilleries of the Whisky Coast for the perfect Scotch * 10 easy trips you can book now

MARCH/APRIL 2011 MARCH/APRIL 2011

In this issue

ASIA

UNSUNG ITALY

Step off the tourist trail and start exploring the real Italy

PLUS

l Communities and ceremonies in beautiful Bali l South Africa, from winelands to wildlife l On the Whisky trail in stunning Scotland l Chicago through the eyes of the silver screen SGD 7.50 RM 15 NT 270 RP 75.000 THB 195 MICA (P) 175/05/2010, PPS 1747/01/2012(028336)

GET YOUR COPY NOW!

LP Cover ITALY-FINAL.indd 1

Available at all major bookstores, petrol stations and newsstands, or subscribe online at www.e-shopping.sg

2

1

4

3

10

SIX MINI GUIDES

5

EASY

A Publication of Regent Media

TRIPS

6

ei, Go jungle-walking in Brun in catch the Paro Tsechu with my Bhutan and get chum n monkeys in Nagano, Japa

8

2/16/11 5:03 PM

10 9

MARCH/APRIL 2011

7 17

* Handy city guides to pull out, fold into pocket-size and keep * What to do and where to go *The best restaurants and bars * Hotels for any budget * Maps included

Fold 2

Fold 2

WHY GO?

tly. ts itself constan s and reinven cuttingBeijing redefine shoulders with orical sights rub Stunning hist change leaves of pace the ture as this once that e edge architec sens a thless. There’s of its life. residents brea ying the time capital is enjo conservative

r/Apr 2011 MINI GUIDE Ma

Beijing,

China

MINI GUIDE Mar/Ap r 2011

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

2/16/11 5:11 PM

10 EASY TRIPS_dj.indd

17

See

Eat & drink

Night Market Donghuamen g Dajie, is a food 6 , near Wangfujin bs, smelly expect lamb keba , squid, BEST FOR BEAC zoo: 1 HEStofu, as, quails’ eggs cicad Ipanema gained intern bs and more. keba ation al berry straw fame in the early dragon-spouted 1960s the for with out the Look bossa nova song ren cha The Girl from er kettles of xing copp Ipanema. It becam avoured e the hang for an almond-fl ors out of artists, intellectuals vend g’anmen Dajie; and sugar rush (Don wealthy liberals, ks US$1). who gathered snac m; -10p at 6pm the sidew st andcafés. You’ll the English touri Great Wallalk the aside find of the part Swat Walk same of the ofcity wealthy Cariocas,at Niuge Jiaozi 7 and stick northmix enjoy the viewsyoun g and old, at the menu does best – finetobeach Ipanem what .this place a beach p , where

See

1

ORY BEST FOR HIST erved ancient China’s best-pres n City was site, the Forbidde and Qing home to the Ming striking series dynasties. It is a tures and of wooden struc of imperial courtyards full 10 6513 2255; treasures (00 86 ay Tiananmen dpm.org.cn; subw n Dong; 8.30amXi or Tiananme m Oct-Apr, 8.30am-4p

WHY GO?

Rio de Janeiro stret ches between sandy beaches and mountains, w neighbourhoods, modernist arch i and the addictive sound of samba WHEN TO GO ng the Spring Festival, towards the toge duri ther. Rainforest tember to Sep ise Beijing parties still erw cove rs sw or February. Oth ther ary wea Janu the of n end to visit whe WHEN TO GO the best time ists.

November is are fewer tour °C) and there Rio’s humid, sout hern-hemisphere is good (12°C-15 December to Marc

h and sees spec Eve celebrations and the February HOW TO GO cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur,of n summer, Septemb a Asia or Chin maj Air From er and Octobe into Beijing with fly ei, with s Taip low humidity and warm 17 mile Bangkok and ital Airport is temp

). Beijing’s Cap (airchina.com HOW TO GO re. The Airport from the cent From Singapore connects l t-rai ligh and Kuala Lum Line pur, ound at France (airfrance .com) or British with the undergr Air (britishairway.com (US$4). A taxi Dongzhimen ) to s US$14.

Aeroporto Gale ão with a into the city cost stopover in Euro pe. Real Auto dden City.

Bus runs the nine LEFT The Forbi miles from the dog RIGHT Feng shui airport to the city ed and Ipanema (US$ figurines are believ radio taxi book luck to bring good ed and pre-paid at the airport will cost US$47 to Ipanema .

Fold 1

LEFT Sugarloaf Moun tain.

RIGHT The giant Cristo

Eat & drink In recent years flashy new kiosks have appeared on Copa Beach, allowing punte cabana rs to get a decent meal foodor but wonderful gourmet snack Try the weird witho Market Nightut leaving the sand. at Donghuamen Recanto do Sol 6 at the northeast k t Duc end serve ong Roas s small plates Beijing Dad of of rite fresh es and 9 sardin is a favou fish, plus nt aura Rest caipirinha . Its

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Discount up to

70%

SKC 6044/6045

Stocking Offer price : RM15 regular price RM29

DJV 7507

Sleeveless Down Jacket Offer price : RM89

regular price RM199

FJW 01

Sweater Offer price RM7 9

regular price :

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RM99

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Jacket n w o D n Childrerice : RM99 Offer p price RM239 5

DJB 750

regular

SNH 8014

SCF 0042 (Brown) / SCF 0043 (Pink)

Scarf Offer price: RM19

ink

- Rose / P

ts Winter Hzae : RM19 Offer Pri ice RM59 r

regular p

GVC 9040 (Black)

e)

/ GVC 9046 (Purpl

Gloves Offer price RM15 39

regular price RM

3 M3 M39 pr RM39 price arr pric regular

MATTA FAIR 11-13 MARCH 2011 BOOTH NO: 3134-3136 HALL 3 Purchase over RM150 in one receipt

FREE 1 copy Lonely Planet or Traveller’s Digest or Santai ŹŹ

Purchase RM299 and above

Free a pair of UT penguins ŹŹ

* While Stocks Last

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3:21 PM

|

11-13 MARCH, 2011

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THE TRAVEL TIMES

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11-13 MARCH, 2011

CUT-OUT COUPONS PROMOTIONS

at the escape! booth.

Specially brought to you by:

HALL 2, Booth 2031-2032

5 Days Taj Mahal (Ground Arrangement) “2 to go” First 100 booking only

w ww.cit.travel

ONLY

HALL 2, Booth 2021

HALL 2, Booth 2104-2113

*While stocks last.

Booth M051-052 & M081-082

Be the first to answer travel-related quiz correctly and

Win A Mystery Gift!*

Come and visit us at our booth now!

*Term & Conditions apply.

Please call 03-21416666.

MEZZANINE FLOOR, Booth M083-M084

MATTA early bird booking for all Japan packages from 7th-13th March 2011, FREE 3D free & easy Taipei ground tour and Japan T-shirt.

*While stocks last.

FREE Hello Kitty Mobile Phone Strap!

Visit us at Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Booth to receive this special Gift.

& Lonely Planet Asia magazine for the first 25 people who produce the coupon at India Tourism Booth each day. *While stocks last.

Travelling on May-Sep 2011

when you subscribe to Lonely Planet Asia magazine at 15% off.

HALL 1, Booth 1228-1235,1242-1249

FREE Incredible India polo t-shirt

RM580

w ww.ibctours.com ibc@streamyx.com

FREE Goodie Bag*

*Valid for redemption with minimum purchase of Two(2) AIR-INCLUSIVE packages. *Not redeemable on other special/promotional offer. *Validity: 11-13 March 2011

*Image is for illustration purposes only. *Other terms & conditions apply.

*While stocks last.

Present this coupon for a FREE*Antler Travel Product!

10 years warranty

Exclusive Sony freebies*

*Terms & Conditions apply. *While stocks last.

HALL 1, MEZZANINE FLOOR

www.jnto.go.jp

FREE Osaka Castle Mobile Phone Strap for the first 200 who produce coupon at Osaka booth. http://www.osakacity.com.sg *While stocks last.

HALL 2, Booth 2134-2143 & 2144-2153

HALL 1, MEZZANINE FLOOR ROYSTAR TRAVEL & TOURS SDN BHD

FREE recycle bag upon booking.

FREE lunch*, plus 50% OFF from 3rd night onwards.

FREE Souvenir Mug or other gift with any Philippines

*While stocks last.

*Term & Conditions apply.

Tel: 605 685 1091/ 603 2287 6868 www.pangkorislandbeach.com

HALL 3, Booth 3061

HALL 1, Booth 1335-1336 & 1347-1348

FREE Korea Tourism Organization

*While stocks last.

*While stocks last.

+

Surprise Gift

with every purchase of Taiwan Tour Package in MATTA Fair, free gifts will be collected in Taiwan Tourism booth at Hall 1.

Hurry Up, while stocks last!

FREE Taj Mahal miniature

a 5 Days Holiday in Maldives!

for every India Tour package booking.

Redeem the lucky draw entry with this coupon.

India specialist

HALL 1, Booth 1295-1297 & 1300

FREE FREE

Face Mask Sheet Set with every purchase of Korea Ground Tour Package in MATTA Fair, free gifts will be collected in Korea Tourism Organization booth.

*While stocks last.

Purchase any Europe Citipac package and you could WIN a €500 Gift Card for your shopping spree in any of the 9 Chic Outlet shopping® Villages in Europe.

Only with:

HALL 1, Booth 1093-1097 & 1120-1124

www.visitkorea.com.my

HALL 1, Booth 1260-1265 & 1276-1281

FREE

Eco Friendly Rainforest bag with this coupon.

Be a fan of Sarawak Travel: www.facebook.com/sarawaktravel

*While stocks last.

Redeem A Travel Magazine with this coupon. *Terms & conditions apply.

penguin* with purchase FREE A Pair of UTof RM199** and above. *While stocks last. **In single receipt.

HALL 3, Booth 3134-3136

HALL 3, Booth 3170-3173 & 3190-3193

www.thts.com.my

3..2..1 G O !

ASEAN DESTINATIONS

Call : +603-7987 3799 Come visit us at Hall 1, booth no 1331 – 1334 & 1349 – 1352 for a surprise gift. *Stock is limited and on first come first serve basis.

3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS FROM RM321/PAX

5%

Discount on other packages

MacauGovernmentTouristOffice Colour logo

Logo on white background

Logo on black or colour background

Email : sensation_holidays@yahoo.com

FREE Ground Arrangement in

Korea / Shanghai / Guilin Guilin

Withcomplimentsfrom

*Terms & Conditions Apply

MATTA FAIR 11-13 Mar 2011 PWTC: Hall 2, Booth No.2012&2013

HALL 3, Booth 3040

*While stocks last.

1-800-88-2033

RM500

HALL 1, Booth 1316-1319

*While stocks last.

Spoon & Chopstick Set with every purchase of Korea tour Package.

HALL 3, Booth 3138 & 3139

Save up to

*Terms & conditions apply.

FREE Scarf with purchase of any Jacket.

FREE Hat with purchase of any Sweater.

FRIENDS & FAMILY / OFFICE TRIP

*Terms & conditions apply.

HALL 1, Booth 1007-1008 & 1027-1028

WIN

*While stocks last.

Stand a chance to

HALL 2, Booth 2118 x 20

HALL 3, Booth 3006-3011

info@tradewindstravel.com.my

with any purchase of Hong Kong packages.

,/'/ 4RIBA %AST 4RAVEL LOGO

*Terms & conditions apply. *While stocks last. www.twtravel.com.my 03-79670888

FREE Ocean Park Photo Frame

*Limited to 50pcs/day.

* Not valid with any Best Buy Jacket/Sweater. * Valid only at MATTA Travel Fair 2011.

HALL 3, Booth 3242 & 3258

upon purchase of honeymoon package.

with purchase of selected packages.

www.welcome2taiwan.net HALL 1, Booth 1184-1188, 1191-1195, 1218-1222

*Applicable for Bali, Bandung, Jakarta, Jogja & Lombok. *While stocks last.

FREE travelling bag

RM50 Travel Voucher

FREE Taiwan High Mountain Oolong Tea

www.12fly.com.my

FREE T-shirt when you book any package during MATTA Fair

HALL 1, Booth 1232-1227, 1250-1254, 1255-1259 & 1282-1286

HALL 1, Booth 1203 x 4 & HALL 2 Booths 2077 x 2

HALL 1, Booth 1196-1201 & 1212-1217 Linkway, Booth L1 & L2

ROYSTAR TRAVEL & TOURS SDN BHD

Come and experience food demonstration by our Adelaide Celebrity Chef and bring along this coupon for a Mystery Gift.

Souvenir Custom made spoon & chopstick with any purchase

of Korea packages.

www.12fly.com.my

FREE

1 night stay when you book 1 night in Hong Kong Disneyland Hollywood Hotel at RM498. *Subject to room availability.

package purchased.

*Terms & Conditions Apply

*Terms & Conditions Apply

Visit Us Hall 2,

Booths 0 21 2209-2