Escapy Escape Into A World Of Travel & Adventure August Issue
Inside: HOHO Bus Guide
KL City Hop On Hop Off Bus
Explore Kuala Lumpur KL ECO Park Forest In The City A Must Watch MUD The Musical KL Tower The Place With A View Free National Textile Museum and Music Museum Foodies: Atmosphere 360 | Friends Of Burger
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Dear friends, Welcome to another issue of Escapy, your free travel “pockezine.” In this issue we explore Kuala Lumpur a modern city and also the capital city of Malaysia. There are quite a few places to visit and things to do within the city other than the normal shopping and dining. If you’re into theatre, you must watch MUD The Musical. It is one of my favourite local productions that tell a fun story of Kuala Lumpur’s modest beginning. Whether you’re a visitor to Malaysia or a local, this is something I recommend you to watch. Happy reading and more importantly, travel more. Follow not the footsteps of the frog that stayed under the coconut.
Cheers, Phil Foo Editor In Chief
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Contents
Click To Go Directly To Article
The City Of Kuala Lumpur
KL Tower
KL Eco Park
Page: 6
Page: 13
Page: 28
Malaysia Music Museum
National Textile Museum
Kuala Lumpur City Gallery
Page: 48
Page: 64
Page: 76
Kuala Lumpur Hop On Hop Off Bus, City Tour. Page: 94
MUD The Musical
Cruises For Couples
Page: 124
Page: 132
Atmosphere 360 Revolving Restaurant Page: 140
Friends Of Burger
Sevlor Fish Hunter Inflatable Kayak
Page: 148
Page: 154
SJCAM SJ5000x Elite
Blackview BV6000 4G Tuff Phone
Page: 156
Page: 157
CASIO G-SHOCK [GWF-D1000] FROGMAN Page: 158
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Contents Page located at end page of all articles. 5
Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
The City Of
Kuala Lumpur
>The iconic clock tower of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building just opposite Merdeka Square.
T
he city of Kuala Lumpur has grown from its once muddy history, through tragedy, and into what it is today, a modern day city. While Kuala Lumpur is a city lined with mega corporations, it offers tourist some interesting places to visit, learn its history, with some fun things to do. 7
Merdeka Square
Checkout Merdeka Square (Independence Square), a large field situated in front of some historical government buildings such as the Sultan Abdul Samad building, the Selangor Club, and various other buildings of which has since been turned into museums and galleries.
>The Sultan Abdul Samad building opposite Merdeka Square.
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>The iconic clock tower of the Sultan Abdul Samad building.
It was here that the Union Jack was lowered and the Malaysian flag hoisted, back in 21st August 1957 marking Malaysia’s Independence day. If you should be in Kuala Lumpur on the 31st of August, do visit Merdeka Square and watch the parade. It is also here that the largest flag and tallest flag pole in Malaysia stands. 11
This place will make a good start of your adventures around Kuala Lumpur. Many places are within reach such as the National Textile Museum, Music Museum of Kuala Lumpur, The KL City Gallery, the historical Central Market, Chinatown, etc. Contents Page
Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
KL Tower
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O
ne of the must visit places in Kuala Lumpur should one visit Kuala Lumpur is the KL Tower. It is essentially a telecommunication tower with an antenna that reaches up to about 412 metres. The KL Tower was completed in March 1995 offering an amazing view of Kuala Lumpur city.
What’s There To Do
There are a few things to do at KL Tower. The one that everyone should go (since it is free) is to go on the jungle trails of the KL Eco Park. Should you decide to do so, bring along drinking water and mosquito repellent. Also do wear proper clothing for the said jungle activity. For those not so into walking the jungle trails, there are a few other things to do.
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View Of Kuala Lumpur
Another thing to do here is to take the lift up to the Sky Deck. You will get an amazing view of Kuala Lumpur city from up here. Do ensure that you have your camera with you as it is a fantastic place to take some photos be it the KL city landscape or to focus on certain architecture.
One of my favourite things to capture digitally are the Petronas Twin Towers with a telephoto lens. One can see the essence of its architectural designs. 17
>The pinnacles of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers taken with a 70-250 telephoto lens.
Sky Box
Right up there hanging off the edge of the Sky Deck is a box made of glass called the Sky Box. Visitors go in to take in a an almost 360 degrees view of which includes the bottom, all the way down to ground level. This certainly is not a box for those with a fear of heights. One gets to spend a few minutes there taking photos. 19
>Certainly not a box for those with a fear of heights.
Observation Deck
For those who would like to be up there taking in the Kuala Lumpur city skyline but rather be within an enclosed area, the observation deck will be the place to go to. The other option is dine at the restaurant that offers a 360 degrees view of Kuala Lumpur. 21
Atmosphere 360
Atmosphere 360 is a revolving restaurant that offers good food and an amazing view of Kuala Lumpur city. One needs to constantly create a map of where one’s table is when one goes to the buffet as the restaurant’s dining area is constantly revolving while the buffet line remains fixed. This adds an element of fun too to the dining experience.
Other Things To Do
There is a Mini Zoo there with birds, rabbits, monkeys. There is also the Blue Coral Aquarium that one can check out should one want to be amazed by fishes. There is also an XD Theatre of which is a 6D theatre, and an F1 simulator for those who fantasize driving an F1 car. 23
Things To Note
All activities except for the KL Eco Park will incur a certain amount of entrance fees but they do have various packages to choose from. Best to checkout their website for these packages.
More Information
Address: Jalan P Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Hours: 9AM–10PM Phone: +60 3-2020 5444 25
>Canopy walk at the KL Eco Park.
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
KL Eco Park
I
have known Kuala Lumpur to be a bustling metropolitan, a concrete jungle with lots of buildings including some of the world famous landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower. Hence when someone invites me to a jungle trekking trip in Kuala Lumpur, my mind automatically thinks shopping. 29
Imagine the surprise I got when our guide at KL Tower told us that we would be going jungle trekking and that we will be learning about some local trees, also that there will be some mosquitoes. Seriously! Jungle trekking in this city?
>Tall trees along the track. 31
Time For A Workout
Turns out that he was serious. We walked towards a gate with an arch and on it hangs a sign that reads “Taman Eko Rimba KL” and below it “Hutan Simpan Bukit Nanas.” Taman Eko Rimba KL” means “KL Eco Park,” and “Hutan Simpan Bukit Nanas” means “Bukit Nanas forest reserve.”
Walking pass the gates brought us to the KL Eco Park and we were on a journey to one of the most important places in Kuala Lumpur City, its green lung. The trail took us through some trees before arriving at a herb garden. >The Puspanita Herb Garden officiated by YBHG. Puan Sri Datuk Rohani Abdullah, the head of Puspanita.
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Herb Garden
According to our guide, there are about 30 species of herbs at the herb garden in the form of plants and trees. One of them is the well known Tongkat Ali tree, of which is proven to help improve the vigour of males. Another herb here called “hempedu bumi” which loosely translates to “bile of the earth” is said to cure cancer. I am not sure how true this is.
>The Puspanita Herb Garden. 35
Huge Trees
As we continued on our journey we came upon some huge trees of which to me is something to be happy about as trees of such sizes and dimensions are hardly seen in the city. Trees such as the Surian Wangi tree (Toona sureni), Jelutong tree (Dyera costulata), and the giant bamboo make up part of the flora here. >Wooden steps on the jungle trail.
>The huge Dipterocarpus boudii tree. 37
>A giant vine along the jungle trail.
>Our guide standing beside come giant bamboo plants. Bamboo plants belong to the grass family.
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Parasites
Every forest will have nutrient providers and parasites. The KL Eco Park is no different. As we walked the trail I spotted some mushrooms feeding on a fallen tree trunk. What’s more interesting is the sighting of a land planarian (flat worm) that feeds on earthworms. This is bad news especially since earth worms are important as they help to keep the soil healthy.
>A land planarian that feeds on earth worms.
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Canopy Walk
Part of the trail we took brought us to the KL Eco Park’s canopy walk. The canopy walk is about 200 metres long with a few observation towers along the way. The canopy walk is nice giving us a different perspective of the forest. It brings us closer to the top of the trees while we look down at the grounds below.
>The Canopy Walk provides a unique view of the forest.
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Return To KL Tower
Our trail took about 1.5 hours and before long we ended up somewhere at the side of KL Tower. It was a good walk and mosquitoes were a plenty. Not so much at the trails but at areas such as the herb garden and an area with a gazebo and what looked like abandoned shops. Hence mosquito repellent is a must.
Various Trails
Other trails at the KL Eco Park are Jelutong Trail, Suboh Trail, Merawan Trail, Penarahan Trail, and Arboretum Trail
Things To Bring
Hiking shoes, mosquito repellent, drinking water, cap, camera, battery fan (should you need one), change of clothes. Free public access. No Permits required. Open daily between 8.00 am and 5.00 pm
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Travel Guide
Escapy
Malaysia Music Museum Kuala Lumpur
O
ne of the ways to feel the culture of a country and its people is by its music. Different cultures have a distinct type of music as well as musical instruments. Malaysia being a melting pot of cultures is certainly rich with a vast diversity of music and musical instruments from many cultures. These can be seen at the Malaysia Music Museum in Kuala Lumpur. 49
From A Mix Of Cultures
Music from the Malay, Chinese, Indian, indigenous people in Sabah and Sarawak, Borneo, Indonesian, as well as western and Arabian cultures brings us musical instruments that are interesting and certainly are pieces of art.
There are percussive instruments such as the gamelan, gongs, metallophones, “kendangs” or “gendangs”, xylophones, “compang”, “geduk”, “gedombak”, huge drums called “rebana ubi”, etc. are showcased here. A huge replica of the “rebana ubi” used at the 16th Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur is on display here. 51
>A xylophones make up part of a Gamelan musical en semble.
>A rebana ubi on display.
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Other displays include string instruments such as sitars, “rebab” (a bow instrument like a violin), “pipa”, “gambus” (much like a lute), “guzheng” or Chinese harp, “erhu” (bow instrument that is like a violin), “sape” (traditional lute of one of the tribes in Sarawak), “veena” (an Indian traditional musical instrument), etc. >A veena on display.
There are also instruments that uses air, called “aerophones” that are on display. These instruments include flutes, accordions, “serunai” (reed wind instrument), “Sheng” (Chinese pipe), trumpets, “seruling” (a type of flute), etc.
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>A Sheng pipe on display.
>A beautiful accordian on display. Just look at the keys.
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Local Legend
The Malaysia Music Museum pays tribute to one of the music legends known as P. Ramlee (19291973). Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr. Teuku Zakaria Teuku Nyak Putih or more fondly known as P. Ramlee used to grace the black and white television and cinema screens here in Malaysia with his musical and comedy genius.
To me personally, P. Ramlee is like the Elvis Presley of Malaysia. He was a musical star, a movie star, and he set the tone for the local comedy scene. He certainly deserves a place in the Malaysia Music Museum. 59
>Display of a person making a sompoton pipe.
>A beautifully crafted East Malaysian lute.
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Miscellaneous Information
Address: 29, Jalan Raja, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Open daily from 9am to 5pm Admission is free * Closed on Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidiladha >Nobat musical ensemble.
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Travel Guide
Escapy
National
Textile
Museum
T
he National Textile Museum showcases the origins of textile, tools of the trade, as well as, textile designs and fashion of the different cultures that make up Malaysia. This is an interesting place to visit especially if one likes arts and craft. The National Textile Museum is made up of four galleries. >Batik painting on display. 65
Pohon Budi Gallery
Pohon Budi also called Pohon Hayat or Tree of Life is a gallery that showcases the origins of textile to how it is made, tools of the trade, materials used, designs and patters, etc. It somewhat a gallery that showcases the lifecycle of textile in various cultures.
>Wax used in printing fabric. 67
Pelangi Gallery
Pelangi Gallery or Rainbow Gallery showcases the fashion heritage of various cultures here in Malaysia such as the many type of batik and batik designs, the Baba and Nyonya clothing, the designs of the Sabah and Sarawak of which are tribal and ethnic motifs, as well as Chinese designs. >Beaded footwear of the Baba and Nyonya.
>A walk down memory lane. An old sewing machine sewing a piece of cloth.
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Teluk Berantai Gallery
Teluk Berantai or Interlocking Bays Gallery showcases the making of the songket, a fabric that belongs to the “brocade� family of textiles with heritage coming from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. This beautiful and intricate designs are an everlasting heritage of the Malay culture kept alive till this day. >Textile such as songket being yarned.
>More modern designs. 71
Ratna Sari Gallery
Ratna Sari Gallery showcases the diamonds, gold, and other jewels by craftsmen from a long time ago. These craftsmen from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and indigenous people from both Peninsular Malaysia as well as Sabah and Sarawak have produced jewellery and personal adornment items from a hosts of natural materials as well such as beads, plants, copper, etc. >Sunong, a war jacket made of deer skin.
>Bark cloth vest worn by the Lun Bawang community for ceremonial occassions only.
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Miscellaneous Information
Address: Muzium Tekstil Negara, 26 Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, 50050 Kuala Lumpur Tel : 03-2694 3457 | Email : pr.mtn@jmm.gov.my Open daily from 9am to 6pm. *Close on Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidi ladha Entrance is free.
>Tools of the trade.
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
Kuala Lumpur City Gallery
T
he Kuala Lumpur City Gallery is an interesting place to visit where one can learn about the city of Kuala Lumpur; its history as well as what has been planned for its future. Its miniature exhibits of well known landmarks are made by skilled craftsmen who have spent many days building them. 77
The walls of the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery tells of how this great city got to be from the time of its humble beginnings to more modern times. Being housed in a colonial building just opposite the Merdeka Square (Independence Square) adds more character and feel to the stories shared within its walls for this is where it all begun.
>History lesson about some of the significant people involved in the building Kuala Lumpur.
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>Sir Frank Swettenham helped modernize Kuala Lumpur.
>Forming of the Federated Malay States with Kuala Lumpur being the capital.
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>Malaya gains independence.
>Kuala Lumpur gains city status. 83
Batik Gallery
Batik, is a traditional method of cloth printing in various countries including Malaysia. It is made using wax and dyes of various colours by the batik artist to create works of art, both wearable as well as for decoration. >Various batik designs at the gallery.
The Kuala Lumpur City Gallery houses a batik gallery showcasing some of these works of art; a local heritage that has gone through subtle design changes throughout the years. 85
Miniature City
The first floor houses a miniature replica of Kuala Lumpur city that has been carefully built by skilled craftsmen. Using lights, video, etc. this replica gives a brief story of the beginnings of Kuala Lumpur to some of the future plans that have been planned. >A model of the city of Kuala Lumpur on display.
>Colourful lights lit certain areas of the model as the video talks about them.
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Miniature Models
ARCH, one of the largest model making companies in Asia, has a workshop that specializes in making or building miniature buildings here. They build many miniature buildings and landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, the Empire State Building, etc.
>A wooden model of the Kuala Lumpur Library.
>Wooden model of a heritage building in Kuala Lumpur.
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Visitors can build their own miniature building too as well as other works of art. There is a workshop that teaches visitors the fine art of building miniature buildings. There is a minimal pax requirement though. >Visitors trying their hands at model making.
ARCH Cafe
After spending time walking about and checking out the exhibits, one can sit down for a meal at the ARCH Cafe. They serves main meals as well as desserts. Of you are a fan of the king of fruits; the durian, they do have a lovely durian dessert. For non durian lovers, cakes and pies would perhaps be the preferred choice. 91
More Information
Address: No. 27, Jalan Raja, Dataran Merdeka, 50050 Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Phone Number: +60 3-2698 3333 >Souvenir shop.
>Yummy durian dessert for durian lovers.
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Travel Guide
Escapy
Kuala Lumpur Hop On Hop Off
Bus City Tour
O
ne of the best ways to explore the city of Kuala Lumpur is to take the Kuala Lumpur Hop On Hop Off bus. The Kuala Lumpur Hop On Hop Off Bus also known as “HOHO” goes on a route that is more tourist focus allowing visitors to “hop off” and visit certain spots, and “hop on” again to the next spot. 95
Services of such are not new. They are available in many other countries such as the free tramp in Melbourne city and the London City Tour Hop On Hop Off bus. The City of Kuala Lumpur has replicated this service and it has proven to be a hit with both locals and visitors.
The Start (MATIC)
Should you decide to embark on a journey around Kuala Lumpur city via the HOHO bus, the first stop or the starting point is the Malaysian Tourism Centre. It is situated at 109, Jalan Ampang (Ampang Road); behind the Concord Hotel and Hard Rock Cafe Kuala Lumpur. 97
MATIC itself has some interesting things to see. First off, it is a tourism centre, thus you will be able to get lots of information about your holiday in Malaysia. The friendly staffs are ready to assist you and there are booklets and brochures that you can take to help plan your stay. MATIC has a craft shop, cafes and bistros such as the Saloma Bistro, a chocolate boutique, and it is the home of a motorcycle. Well, not just any motorcycle but one made by the famous Orange County Choppers from the television program; American Chopper.
Stop 2: KL Tower
KL Tower is an one of the world’s top 10 tallest towers, actually 7th or 8th tallest. It is a communications tower with a revolving restaurant called Atmosphere 360, a sky deck offering a 360 degrees view of Kuala Lumpur City, a Skybox, and aquarium called The Blue Coral, a Mini Zoo, and a Forest. 99
Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve
Bukit Nanas or Pineapple Hill is a forest reserve also known as the KL Eco Park. Here you can do some jungle tracking and learn about some of the flora and fauna that lives within the park. The tracks are well marked and there is also a canopy walk. Do bring drinking water and insect repellent though as there are a lot of mosquitoes there.
Stop 3: P. Ramlee
P. Ramlee Road (Jalan P. Ramlee) is named after one of Malaysia’s most famous TV Stars, director, singer, song writer, etc.; the late Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr. Teuku Zakaria Teuku Nyak Putih or more commonly known as P. Ramlee. P. Ramlee Road is famed for its pubs, clubs, and restaurants. It is one of the partying hotspots of Kuala Lumpur.
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Stop 4: KLCC / Aquaria
KLCC is one of the major shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur. Inside KLCC is the Aquaria KLCC a world class aquarium that showcases 5000 aquatic and land creatures, from large species such as sharks to smaller species the like the clown fish, as well as rays, and turtles. Outside the KLCC mall of which is Suria KLCC is a park with fountains, a huge water feature, and a garden. This Park is the KLCC Park. It is a nice place to hangout. It is also a good spot to take photographs of the Iconic Petronas Twin Towers.
Stop 5: Karyaneka
Karyaneka is an arts and craft centre situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city. It is a good place to see handicrafts as well as to experience doing some. Amongst the craft on display are Batik, Songket, Pewter, weaving and plaiting, metal works, wood carvings, and ceramic and crystal works. Other things to see are “Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman” or the House of local headsman, Abu Seman. The “Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman” is a house of which can only described as a piece of art. 103
Stop 6: Bukit Bintang
Bukit Bintang is a shopping area with a few malls within walking distances, such as Pavillion, Starhill, Lot 10, Berjaya Times Square, Sungei Wang Plaza, and Low Yat Plaza. Apart from shopping malls there are lots of restaurants, cafes, etc. within the area. >The Light Rail Transit train going through Bukit Bintang
Stop 7: Tengkat Tong Shin Tucked behind the main shopping areas Tengkat Tong Shin is one place where one will find budget hotels and boutique hotels of which are within walking distance to the malls. It is also a good place to try out local food.
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Stop 8: Chinatown
Chinatown is one of the places with a mix of things from street vendors selling all sorts of things such as clothing, watches, bags, etc. Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Nike shoes, Rolex, IWC, Patek Philippe, etc. are some of the common brands found here at very low prices. However, do note that they are not originals. Food on the other hand is good and reasonably priced. >The Light Rail Transit train going through Bukit Bintang
Stop 9: Central Market
Central Market is one of the places to go to should you be interested in buying souvenirs, arts and crafts, and clothing. There are some cafes and food outlets inside. Just beside the Central Market is Kasturi Walk that houses an open air flea market. 107
Stop 10: Little India
This is a haven for Indian cuisine, Jewellery from India, and lots of other products from India. You will hear Indian music as you walk by the shops. The fragrance of curry hits you as you walk towards some of the Indian restaurants. Certainly is a good place to go to for Indian food. >A fountain at Little India.
Stop 11: KL Sentral
Just off Little India is KL Sentral. This is the largest rail transport and transit hub of Malaysia. With different trains going on various routes to many places including the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, KL Sentral is certainly the place to go to should one decide to venture out of the city. >Buildings at KL Sentral. 109
Stop 12: National Museum
For a bit of history and to view some of the relics and treasures found around Malaysia, the National Museum is one of the places worth visiting. There are a few galleries to view as well as special exhibits depending on the time of visit. >An old train head on display at the museum.
Stop 13: National Palace
The National Palace is the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the monarch of Malaysia. The palace was completed in September 2011 nestled on 97.65 hectares of land. It replaces an older palace of which is now open to the public. Visitors are not allowed into the palace grounds (new) but they can take pictures from the outside. >The National Palace. Visitors will oly be able to view the palace from the gates.
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Stop 14: Lake Gardens
Lake Gardens, officially known as Perdana Botanical Gardens is a large garden with a land size measuring 91.6 hectares. In it are ornamental trees that are neatly sculptured, a lake, theatre, ASEAN Sculpture Garden, National Monument, Butterfly Park, children’s playground, etc.
Stop 15: KL Bird Park
Still within the Lake Gardens area is the KL Bird Park a place where visitors get to mingle with birds. Just opposite the KL Bird Park is the KL Orchid Garden, and National Planetarium. Further down the road brings us to the Tun Abdul Razak (2nd Prime Minister of Malaysia) Memorial.
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Stop 16: National Mosque
Near the Tun Razak Memorial is the National Mosque. One can actually walk all the way from the KL Bird Park all the way to the National Mosque should one choose too. Around the area of the National Mosque are the Islamic Arts Museum, and the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station of which is one of the historical buildings around the city. >National Mosque Kuala Lumpur.
Stop 17: Merdeka Square (Independence Square)
This stop takes you to one of the more important areas of Kuala Lumpur. Merdeka Square is surrounded by history. The Sultan Abdul Samad building designed by A.C. Norman and built in 1894-1897. There is the Music Museum, National Textile Museum, Kuala Lumpur City Gallery, and the Bandaraya Theatre that is currently playing MUD The Musical, a must see. >The Sultan Abdul Samad building opposite Merdeka Square. 115
On the Merdeka Square itself stands the tallest flag pole in Malaysia with the largest flag also in Malaysia. Behind the Merdeka Square sits the Royal Selangor Club founded in 1884 by the British who ruled Malaya then. The club has hosted the Rugby Union and cricket games.
Stop 18: Medan MARA
Medan MARA stop bring us yet again to another shopping and dining area with a few shopping malls nearby and plenty of shops to checkout along Tungku Abdul Rahman Road. There are also some famous food outlets one of them being the Coliseum that has been around since 1921. 117
Stop 19: Putra World Trade Centre
Putra World Trade Centre is where certain exhibitions are held such as the MATTA Fair of which is Malaysia’s largest travel fair, Car shows, etc. Opposite it is the Sunway Putra Mall, a mall that has been refurbished. Walk further down and you come to Chow Kit Road, an older area of Kuala Lumpur.
Stop 20: Titiwangsa This stop brings us to yet another transportation terminal. This time it is a bus terminal called the Pekeliling Bus Terminal of which is the transportation hub to the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. There is an LRT (Light Rail Transit) train service there as well.
Stop 21: Palace Of Culture
The Palace Of Culture stop has a few places to see nearby. They are the National Theatre a venue for many types of plays including music such as the opera, National Visual Arts Gallery, National Library, and Titiwangsa Lake Gardens.
Stop 22: Citibank Although this stop is called Citibank, what’s more interesting about the place is the Ampang Park Mall, one of the places that one can do some shopping. Around the area are some food outlets.
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Stop 23: KLCC
This stop brings us back to KLCC or Kuala Lumpur City Centre. This time in front of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, perhaps the most photographed towers in Kuala Lumpur. From here the bus returns to MATIC.
Where To Sit
Should you decide to sit on top in the open deck area, the weather is one thing that you will have to put up with. It can get really hot or it could get really wet (rain). Still it is the best place to sit at should your objective be to photograph the sites. If you’re sitting indoors, in the air-conditioned area, you have nothing to worry about except for the reflections in your photos. 121
Do bring along:
A hat, a bottle of drinking water, sunglasses, and a fan if you prefer to sit at the open deck area. Wear thinner comfortable clothing. Do not open your umbrella as it will become a disturbance to those sitting around you. >A dome of the old railway station.
For More Information
Address ELANG WAH SDN BHD [640812-T] No. 17-1, Jalan 1/76, Desa Pandan, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA Tel : +6 03-9282 2713 Hot-Line : 1800-88-5546 >Palace gates.
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
MUD The Musical
K
uala Lumpur has an illustrious and interesting past with its humble beginnings at the muddy banks of two rivers. No historical story of Kuala Lumpur has ever been told in such an enjoyable manner; in a musical. MUD The Musical; Our Story Of Kuala Lumpur.
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An Emotional Story
MUD The Musical is a collaboration between Kuala Lumpur City Hall and Enfinity Vision Media, that showcases a rags to riches story that keeps one at the edge of their seat laughing at times, and at times scrambling for the tissue as the flood gates open.
Not Just Dance And Music
MUD The Musical is not just a stage performance using dance and music to tell a story. The actors act out scenes that one can only imagine to have had happen during the earlier days of Malaysia when things were less mental, and they do with ramped up emotions. This don’t just make for a stage show that is entertaining but one that is captivating too. 127
Want To Be On Stage?
Should you have dreams on appearing on stage this here is your chance. Well, not as the star of the musical. Not even as an extra. A guest perhaps will be a more suitable word. MUD The Musical includes audience participation to give the play more zest. Audience are invited on stage to be part of the act as well.
The Story
Once upon a time there were two rivers and by its banks, a muddy confluence where folks lived a pretty normal life. I definitely do not one to be the “spoiler� here and thus will only say that, MUD The Musical is certainly worth watching. I loved every moment of it. And should you be sitting on a fence thinking hard if you should watch it; let me be the one to push you off. Yes you should. 129
Information
Venue: Bandaraya Theatre (Panggung Bandaraya) Address: Jalan Raja, Dataran Merdeka, 50350, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Show Time: Twice daily. 3PM and 8:30PM >Guests from the Philippines, Japan, etc. on stage.
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131
Travel News
Philemon Foo
Cruises For Couples
A
hhh... the sea or what the French so romantically call, la mer. There are many songs written about it, or with references to it. Thus a spending one’s honeymoon out at sea is a brilliant idea. Here are two packages that can make such dreams come true. >A couple having their wedding photography done while on a cruise.
Dream Cruise Honeymoon Package
Dream Cruises and Overseas Tours recently launched a new cruise package called the Dream Cruise Honeymoon Package of which is a special instalment to the usual Dream Cruise packages currently available. >One of the couples who won a prize during the launch. 133
Romance Of The Sea
This package is special because it is made specially for love birds looking for a romantic escape out to sea, enjoying the romance of the sea with each other while they dose themselves with great hospitality provided by the crew; making their honeymoon a memorable one.
Routes
The Dream Cruise will be sailing 2 routes departing from Guangzhou sailing to different Vietnamese coasts with an option for a stop at Hong Kong of which will be 7 nights instead of the original 5 nights. Route 1: Da Nang and Ha Long Bay and Route Route 2: Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang. > YB Elizabeth Wong handing a prize to another lucky couple.
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Package
All current Dream Cruise package includes flight from China Southern Airlines, with a choice to choose between economy or business class. The flight will fly from Kuala Lumpur to Guangzhou and also vice versa when the trip ends. >Lucky couples who have won holidays and wedding photo shoots.
The package also includes port transfer from the airport to the cruise. When the trip ends, there will be transport provided to go to the airport to board on the flight by China Southern Airlines, flying to Guangzhou and then back to Kuala Lumpur. >Swimming pool on one of the decks of the Superstar Gemini. 137
Photoshoot Package
Another package that love birds can enjoy is a wedding photoshoot package on Superstar Gemini, an idea by Overseas Tour and Travel, and a bridal house. This package provide newlyweds with wedding memories on a cruise ship featuring the beautiful sea, blue skies, etc as the background; creating a very special cruise ship themed wedding pictures.
Couples will also enjoy a honeymoon experience on a cruise sailing out to sea spending time with each other for a span of 3 days and 2 nights. After all, the sea is rich in romance thus a honeymoon package worth venturing for. One of the partners in these packages is Bank Rakyat providing interested couples with interest free easy payment schemes through their Mastercard making it easier for couples to attain their dream honeymoon. Contents Page
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For Foodies
Philemon Foo
W
alking into an elevator and standing in it for what feels like an eternity as it climbs meter after meter, popping one’s ears on the way; is what it takes to dine up in the skies at Atmosphere 360. 141
Dining High
Dining over 400 meters up in the sky with a wonderful 360 degrees view of the Kuala Lumpur city skyline, getting disoriented, and being unable to locate your table after you’ve gone to get more food at the buffet line are some of the things one gets to enjoy when dining here. >Comfortable dining with a superb view.
Good Food Nice Place
Atmosphere 360 is a lovely place to dine. It is comfortable and classy. Of course the view adds heaps to the ambience. The food is tasty and buffet spread is quite good offering tasty seafood, poultry, lovely desserts especially ice cream. >Lovely buffet spread.
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Disorientating Yet Wonderful
Being a revolving restaurant adds fun to the dining experience. Not only does one get a wonderful 360 degree view of Kuala Lumpur City, one could very well get disoriented and lost wondering where one’s table has gone to. >Dim sum and a bowl durian dessert. The dim sum bit is mediocre but the durian dessert is lovely.
>The food is good. I thoroughly enjoyed them.
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Additional Information
TH-02, Menara Kuala Lumpur, No.2, Jalan Punchak Off Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. TEL +603 2020 2020 | FAX +603 2020 2525 Time: 10am-11pm
>View from my seat at the restaurant.
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For Foodies
Philemon Foo
Friends Of
Burger
P
ersonally I am not a big fan of burgers but I do crave them once in a while. While Mc Donald’s may be the largest franchise burger outlet in the world, their burgers are totally forgettable. Here is another burger outlet with a 60s or 70s themed decor and their burgers are like a thousand time better. Maybe not a thousand but they taste a lot better. The place, Friends Of Burger. 149
Retro Design
The restaurant’s retro design was an eye catcher. I do like things retro and one of the items that caught my eye was a jukebox. I decided to walk in and to take a closer look at the jukebox. The jukebox uses a USB thumb drive. Retro look on a modern music machine. >Would be nicer if the jukebox was indeed one from years past.
>Modern yet retro. Nice, clean, and simple ambience. 151
Juicy Tasty Burgers
While I have not tasted many gourmet burgers my authority on burgers is basically nil but I do love to eat and I find the burgers here to be tasty, especially the lamb burger. The taste of the meat is actually quite apparent. Mixed with melted cheese and chopped onions, tomatoes, etc. I really enjoyed the burger and decided on ordering more; smaller size combos. They all tasted good too. >Would be nicer if the jukebox was indeed one from years past.
Worth A Visit
Do give Friends Of Burger a try. The prices are a little more as compared to those in Mc Donald’s but they taste is a lot better and is certainly worth the extra. Simple tasty burgers. LG03.04, Lower Ground Floor, Da:men Mall Store, Persiaran Kewajipan USJ 1, USJ, Subang Jaya, Selangor 47500. Opening hours: 10am to 10pm Contents Page
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Goodies
The Asian Angler
Sevylor Fish Hunter Inflatable Boats
S
evylor Fish Hunter Inflatable boats are a good alternative fibreglass or aluminium boats. They are mobile, easily stored, and they are tough. Sevylor Fish Hunter Inflatable boats are Coast Guard compliant and are certified NMMA. They are great to be used for boating or fishing out at lakes.
PDF Readers: Click Link To Watch Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLVUthj2Z-8
Features Double Lock and mini Double Lock Valves DIN Safety Chamber Inflated Floor Two Fishing rod holders 2 built in Berkley rod holder quick set mounts Gear holder Grabline and drain plugs Two Carry handles Fitting for a motor mount or Sevylor trolling motor Can be used with motor up to 2hp. Sits: 4 & 6 For more information contact Coleman: Tel: 1300 88 8388 http://coleman.com.my/ Note: May not be available in some markets. Contents Page
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Goodies
The Asian Angler
SJCAM SJ5000x Elite
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he SJCAM SJ5000x is SJCAM’s most feature robust Action Camera to date. Upgrading to 12.4mp Sony IMX078 Sensor, Adding Adjustable Viewing angles (70-170 Degrees), and 4K Video record at 24 frames per second (4K24 Interpolated) are all new features packed into the SJCAM SJ5000x Elite Edition – Be the First.
PDF Readers: Click Link To Watch Video Website: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_mJZOcUfAk
Website: http://sjcamhd.com/sjcam-sj5000x-elite/ Note: May not be available at come markets
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Goodies
The Asian Angler
Blackview BV6000 4G Tuff Phone
Y
ou probably know that some phones can handle a few splashes here and there and some can take a drop pretty well. The Blackview mobile phones are made to go the extremes. They are built to handle torture be it underwater, in the dessert, or up on the snowy. They are certainly made for the adventurous and those who go to the extremes.
PDF Readers: Click Link To Watch Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fq9Xzjrk53M
Website: http://www.blackview.hk/blackview-153/ Note: May not be available at come markets
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Goodies
The Asian Angler
CASIO G-SHOCK [GWF-D1000] FROGMAN
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asio’s Shock-resistant FROGMAN diver’s watches feature ISO 200-meter water resistance and a unique asymmetric shape that leaves wrist movement unrestricted. The GWF-D1000 is equipped with triple sensors and is designed to withstand the toughest of underwater missions.
PDF Readers: Click Link To Watch Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyBBLFs2R6I
The GWF-D1000 also marks a first for the FROGMAN Series, with a water depth function that measures the depth down to 80 meters in 10 centimeter increments. The temperature function measures water temperature in 0.1 degree Celsius increments, and the compass bearing function, which features auto horizontal compensation, measures bearing in one degree increments even when tilted. These sensors provide real-time measurement data to support underwater search and rescue activities.
website: http://www.casio-intl.com/asia-mea/en/ news/2016/basel/gwf-d1000/
website: http://www.casio-intl.com/asia-mea/en/news/2016/basel/gwf-d1000/
Note: May not be available in some markets.
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