Escapy Escape Into A World Of Travel & Adventure
n o ti a x a l e Hill Top R s l l i H a y a j Ber Homestays Endah Village Relax & Take In The Local Culture
Gourmet Safari Kuala Lumpur
An Adventure Of The Senses
Jugra
A Historical Royal Town With Lots To Offer
Legoland Malaysia Halloween Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights
Lots More Inside
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Dear friends, Welcome to another issue of Escapy, your free travel digital magazine and “Pockezine�; your magazine that is made to be read on mobile devices. Travel is always fun. It broadens the mind and feeds the soul. Talking about feeding the soul, it this issue we take an adventure into a gourmet world that feeds the senses as well as the tummy. The Gourmet Safari Kuala Lumpur is something I recommend you to try. We travel on the less beaten track to two villages in Selangor, Malaysia. If you are wondering what is there to see in villages, well, there are quite a few things actually. It is nice to once in a while go to some place quite and nice and just take in the surroundings. Are you a fan of Lego? Lego, the blocks that have been entertaining children and adults alike. If you are a fan you may want to pay Legoland Malaysia a visit. They are celebrating Halloween with the Halloween Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights and there are promotions too. Check out the article inside. Well my friends, travel more when opportunities arise. Should you have any feedback do email us at info@theasianpublisher.com. Thank you for reading Escapy and have many, many wonderful adventures.
Cheers, Phil Foo Editor In Chief
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Contents
Click To Go Directly To Article
Berjaya Hills Going French In A Malaysia Hill Page: 6
Horse Riding In The The Japanese Hills Garden Page: 16
Page: 22
A French Town In Malaysia; Colemar Tropicale Page: 34
Of Royalty & History: Jugra, Selangor Page: 50
Sijangkang Village Mangrove Recreation Park Page: 84
Endah Village: A Beautiful Village
Boh Tea Estate, Bukit Cheeding (Cheeding HIll) Page: 118
Legoland Malaysia Halloween BrickOr-Treat Page: 134
Gourmet Safari Kuala Lumpur
Hungry In Banting? Wak Dol Soto
Page: 98 A Day Out With Tourism Selangor #TSDayout2016 Page: 154 Coleman 12 Hours Cooler Backpack Page: 212
Page: 180 Page: 206 Coleman Weather Tech, Oakley Flak 2.0, Merrel Sandals Page: 220
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Contents Pagelocated at end page of all articles. 5
Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
Berjaya Hills
Going French In A Malaysian Hill
U
p in the hills of Bukit Tinggi, Pahang; lies Berjaya Hills. Berjaya Hills was developed years ago as a hill resort for holidaying city slickers and travellers from countries far and near that prefer a more natural environment but not too “jungle and wild� to holiday at.
y l i m a F e h T r o F e c A Pla
Berjaya Hills offers quite a few activities for families to enjoy such as a mini animal park, a botanical garden, a Japanese village, an equestrian centre, an adventure park, a French town, etc. For those that prefer a little peace and quiet, Berjaya Hills offers that too. 7
k r a P l a m i n A i n i M
Kids will love this place where rabbits and sometimes dears run about freely within an enclosure waiting to be fed by visitors. There are also donkey rides available for children. The donkeys are led by one of the staffs to ensure safety.
Note though that rabbits generally do not like to be picked up and they can get quite aggressive to free themselves especially when they feel threatened or when handled in the wrong way, of which could harm both the person who picked up the rabbit and the rabbit itself. 9
e g a l l i V e s e n a Jap
For those who want to see what a Japanese garden looks like and experience some things Japanese like the Japanese tea ceremony dressed in Japanese traditional costumes such as the kimono, have a Japanese meal, or go for a Japanese spa; a visit to the Japanese Village is a must.
This village and the Botanical Garden of which are in the same area (left to Japanese Village and right to Botanical Garden) offer many photo opportunities to photography enthusiasts. There are flowers, insects, water droplets (after rain), etc. to click the shutter at. 11
Golfing
There is a golf course too for golfers to enjoy a game or two. The Berjaya Hills Golf & Country Club offers a 18 holes course of which is designed by J.Michael Poetllot. It has since hosted a few prestigious tournaments and has been Top 20 Best Golf Course in Malaysia (2010/2011).
s t s a i s u h t n E r a Bikers And C
The curvy snaky roads from the bottom of the hill to the top has been an attraction to weekend bikers and car enthusiasts. Bikers on high powered bikes ride up and down the hills using one of the lesser used roads during the weekends. A car hill climb time trial race called the JPM MOTORSPORT Bukit Tinggi HILL CLIMB TIME CHALLENGE was held there back in 2009. 13
y a w a t e G g n i x a l e AR
Some say that the Berjaya Hills is an alternative to the more well known Genting Highlands for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and the crowd in Genting Highlands. To me it is a nice getaway that offers relaxation as well as lots of places to exercise my camera.
A large jungle millipede making its way down the slope as we walked towards the Japanese Garden,
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
Horse Riding In The Hills
H
orses are strong, powerful, and majestic animals used for many reasons from transportation, to movie making, to racing. Even the power of an automobile and other machinery goes by the term “horsepower.� Who doesn’t like horses? Most people like horses.
s l i a r T e s r o H s l l i Berjaya H
For those who want to experience horse riding or learn horse riding, there is an equestrian centre up here in Berjaya Hills. They offer short rides being led by a trained “leader�, longer rides through various terrains such as hills and forest, progressive riding lessons, and horse handling and management courses. 17
d e n o i t c n a S d n A Registered
The Berjaya Hills Horse Trails is registered with the Malaysian and British Riding Centre and sanctioned by the Malaysia Equine Council. The team running the place is internationally qualified and is managed by a professional International Coach. This team ensures that the horses are trained and well taken cared off.
s e d i R f O s e p y Various T
We opted for a ride down the road without going into any part of the forest. For the more adventurous there are creek and river rides, jungle rides, etc. They even have a picnic ride where one gets to enjoy one’s lunch at a scenic spot, arriving there on horseback. How cool is that? 19
Contact Details
Equestrian Manager: Lorraine +6012 2891925 Equestrian Coordinator: +6016 6097089
Click To Check Out Our
2016 Catalogue http://coleman.com.my/downloads/coleman-catalogue-2016.pdf
Contents Page
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
Japanese Garden
T
here is something about Japanese gardens that tends to calm the soul. It’s probably the zen thing that so many Japanese gardens seem to have. The Japanese garden up in Berjaya Hills too has something to calm the soul. Perhaps it is the feeling of “zenness” from the streams, carp fishes, and greens.
What A Walk
Before one arrives at the Japanese Garden one will have to walk up a steep hill giving oneself a seriously tough aerobic workout especially for the less than reasonably fit. I do not know who’s ideas this is to put visitors through quite a torturous workout but at the top, once one’s breath has return; a state of calmness takes over. 23
Beautiful And Calming
Flowers, greens, insects, stream, little waterfalls, girls in kimono (guys too), etc. seem to have this calming effect. The air is fresh too and one may get a natural high from the extra oxygen inhaled throughout the garden. In no time the torturous climb one endured earlier will all be gone from one’s mind.
Photographer's Haven
With so many subjects to shoot photog’s (short for photographers) will find themselves in photography haven. Macro artists can hunt down tiny insects, water droplets, natural designs, etc. to shoot. Landscape artists will be putting on their ND filters and slowing down their shutter speeds. This place is indeed a haven for photogs. 25
Pamper Yourself
Should one want to pamper oneself, the Tatami Spa is the place to go. Here one gets to relax and enjoy various Japanese holistic health treatments the likes of aromatherapy, massages, body scrubs, etc. all designed to pamper and rejuvenate.
The Tatami Spa is housed within a traditional Japanese design two storey bungalow but equipped with modern amenities. There is even an outdoor “onsen� or hot spring bath that is placed inside a beautiful rock garden with views of the forest. 27
>The Tatami Spa.
Japanese Restaurant
If Japanese carps, streams, spa, wearing Kimono, etc. is still not enough to “Japanise� your soul, perhaps Japanese food will do the trick. The Ryo Zan Tei Japanese Restaurant serves up Japanese food to help complete your experience here at the Japanese Garden. To go further you will have to take Japanese language classes. 29
>Dining with a view at the Ryo Zan Tei Japanese restaurant.
What a beautiful place. Just let go and relax. Allow the “zen� of the place to calm you and bring you to another place... Japan perhaps. When peace is achieved you can then make your way back down the hill. Hey! Now I understand why they made climbing the hill a must. 31
>Kimonos are available for rent.
>A Japanese tea house.
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33
Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
A French Town In
Malaysia
Colmar Tropicale
C
olmar is a town in the Alsace region of north eastern France near the border of France and Germany. A resort resembling the original Colmar was built many years ago with a mix and match of some the architecture found there. That resort is called Colmar Tropicale. 35
Colmar Tropicale
Colmare Tropicale sits some 2,700 feet above sea level. It is one of the resorts that I frequently visit. What I liked about Colmar Tropicale is its architecture and the nature that surrounds it. A lot of photographers are attracted to this place as it offers up many unique photo opportunities both of the resort’s French themed architecture, and the natural beauty of the hills
Lovely Suites
Colmar Tropicale has rooms of different configurations from superior twin rooms to grand suites. I’ve stayed in the superior twin room and the one bedroom deluxe suite and I found them to be cosy and nice.
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While the superior twin room is cosy and nicely decorated, the one bedroom deluxe suite is where the pampering takes place. I love the suite. It is decently decorated and is comfortable to stay in with lots of space. It has a nice bath tub and shower with an area that sits a dressing table, comfortable bed, comfortable living area, a kitchen, a cute dining area, etc.
Facilities
Below the rooms are shops, arcade gaming centres, restaurants, etc. for visitors to spend time at. There are shops that offer activities to families such as clay art / figurine painting, arcade machine gaming and rides, small fun fair styled area, etc. as well as souvenirs. 39
Yummy Food
Having been a frequent visitor to this place, I found improvements in the food that they serve. I never had much good to say about the food but on my last visit I enjoyed the food a lot. I usually dine at Le Blason (breakfast) and I enjoyed the food. The chicken sausages, croissant, chicken ham, etc. was good. The desserts were delicious too. Service too have gone through vast improvements.
There other restaurants too such as La Cigogne that offers French fine dining, La Flamme a restaurant that serves Italian food, Le Poulet Roti (another restaurant I frequent) a roast chicken outlet, La Boulangerie (bakery), L’Orient an Asian noodle place, and Le Vin (sports bar). 41
>La Cigogne Restaurant and its menu presenting depic tion of a French maid.
Other Activities
There is a swimming pool below the main street (where most of the activity is at)where one can go for a swim or just sit on the deckchair and relax taking in the beautiful view of nature. Should one prefer some pampering, the La Lavande spa is the place to go. >The entrance to La Lavande Spa.
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Stage Performances
There are stage performances that start somewhere in the late afternoon and goes on to about 10 to 10.30pm at various intervals. There are dance performances, magic shows, and performance by bands. Personally I have seen too much of them but for most people, these free shows are worth waiting for. >Breakdancing going on on stage.
Overall, Colmar Tropicale is a nice place to visit. I like that there are activities within the resort as well as just outside the resort that will keep the family occupied. Some of them are free and some requires a small entrance fee. There are lots of photo opportunities and these make me happy. 45
Getting There
Driving from Kuala Lumpur takes about 45 minutes via the Karak Highway. Follow the highway by passing the turn offs to Genting Highlands, and Bukit Tinggi Village. There will be a turn off on the left that heads to Berjaya Hills. The other option is to take a shuttle from Berjaya Time Square in Kuala Lumpur. The rates are RM60.00 per adult (return) and RM55.00 per child (return). Time: 8am, 10.45am, 4 pm and 7.30pm.
> The fountain at the entrance to Colmar Tropicale. 47
>A white swan at the Colmar Tropicale castle mote.
Information
COLMAR TROPICALE, BERJAYA HILLS KM48, Persimpangan Bertingkat Lebuhraya Karak 28750 Bukit Tinggi, Bentong, Pahang Malaysia Tel: + 60 (9) 221 3666 Fax: + 60 (9) 221 3828 Contents Page
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
Of Royalty & History
Jugra
Selangor
J
ugra, one of the old historical royal towns within the district of Selangor, Malaysia, has lots to offer travellers. Most of them are historical sites such as the old palace, the old jail of which is now a museum, and the royals tombs. Jugra was the royal capital of Selangor when back in 1875, Sultan Abdul Samad built the Jugra Palace and lived there. The place was strategic as it was near the river mouth and the Jugra Hill offered lookout points and protection. 51
Jugra Hill
These days Jugra Hill offers thrill seekers such as paragliders, a take off point as they soar taking in the scenic views of the area. Paragliders can soar to over 300 metres up in the skies coming in to land at a field below the Jugra Hill. >Paragliding, an activity to do at Jugra Hill.
Being about 146 meters above sea level Jugra Hill offers a lovely view of the river mouth, the greenery of Carrey Island, and the area surrounding the hill even for those who prefer to have both feet on solid ground. Sitting down and just staring out into the beautiful surroundings is calming and relaxing. >A lovely view of the area. 53
Jugra Hill had been an important landmark to navigators navigating the Straits of Malacca and it was known by many foreign navigators as Parcelar Hill. The Chinese, Arab, and European sailors use Jugra Hill as one of their landmarks as they came in to trade. Now a lighthouse sits on top of Jugra Hill offering assistance to sailors these days. >Jugra Hill lighthouse.
Jugra Insitu Museum
The Jugra Insitu Museum is located at the foot of Jugra Hill. It is a historical site of what once used to be a police station and prison; constructed in 1875 by Captain Harry Charles Syers, a police officer entrusted with carrying out the rule of law. >The Jugra Insitu Museum built around the area of the old police station and jail. 55
The Jugra Insitu Museum was built using granite stones that were available around the area it was built. Although the police station and prison has long been beaten up by the environment, some of its structures can still be seen. >A mannequin in old police uniform standing next to wall with granite stone designs as those used to build the wall in the early days.
Restoration work is ongoing but visitors can visit the new more modern building where the museum is. Parts of the olden police station and prison are on display together with information about the history of the Sultanate (Sultan Abdul Samad’s reign), the area, as well as the police station and prison. 57
One of my favourites are two armoured vehicles used by the police during the days of old, on display at the site. One is allowed to climb into these vehicles to take a closer look at how it is inside and the difficulty of having to drive one due to the limited vision afforded. >The armoured vehicle used by the police in earlier days.
>The back section of the armoured vehicle. 59
>The driver’s side of the armoured vehicle. Notice the limited vision available to the driver.
>A tiny window for the front passenger. Probably where a gun would have pointed out. 61
>The Armoured Personal Carrier GMC 15 CWT.
Armoured Personal Carrier GMC 15 CWT
C T 15A or known as GMC is an armoured carrier used by the Federation of Malaya Police to carry and escort security forces when making patrols in areas exposed by communist threat around 1948 until 1960 (Emergency Era). The vehicle was built by General Motors Canada during the World War II. An estimate of 145 vehicles are believe to be in Malaysia. This 4WD is said to be tough and easy to manoeuvre in narrow areas. 63
Weight:
4.5 t
Length:
4.75 m (15 ft 7 in)
Width:
2.34 m (7 ft 8 in)
Height:
2.31 m (7 ft 7 in)
Crew:
2
Passengers: 8 Armour:
6-14 mm
Engine:
GMC 6 cyl. gasoline
100 hp (74 kW)
Power/weight: 22.2 hp/tonne Suspension:
4 x 4 wheel, leaf spring
Speed:
65 km/h (40 mph)
Sultan Abdul Samad Mausoleum
The Sultan Abdul Samad Mausoleum also known as the Royal Mausoleum is located at Jugra Hill. It is visited by royal families as well as the common visitors who come to visit the tomb of Sultan Abdul Samad as well as other cemeteries of those related that share the area.
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The area measuring approximately five acres was chosen as the royal burial ground by the Selangor Royal family back in 1886. A big complex houses the Mausoleum of Sultan Abdul Samad Ibni Almarhum Tengku Abdullah who ruled from 1859 to 1898 when he passed away. >The complex that houses the Mausoleum of Sultan Abdul Samad Ibni Almarhum Tengku Abdullah.
Around the complex are a few more mausoleums of relatives such Almarhum Tengku Muda Musa, Almarhum Tunku Alfah Binti Almarhum Sultan Abdul Samad, Almarhum Tunku Jaafar, Almarhum Tunku Yaakob, Almarhum Tunku Maharum, Almarhum Raja Berkat, and Almarhum Tengku Muteh Ibni Sultan Abdul Samad. 67
There are many more cemeteries of around the complex and at different areas of the land belonging to those related to the royal family. Should one decide to visit the Royal Mausoleum, one must adhere to the rules (dos and don’ts) of the place and treat it with respect at all times.
>The Mausoleum of Sultan Abdul Samad Ibni Almarhum Tengku Abdullah.
69
Istana Alaeddin (Alaeddin Palace)
The Alaeddin Palace, was built in 1905 by Sultan Aladdin Suleiman Syah Ibni Almarhum Raja Muda Musa, the 5th Sultan of Selangor on a piece of land measuring 12.96 acres. It is also known as Istana Bandar Jugra or Jugra City Palace. He lived there until his passing in 1938. >The main entrance to the Alaeddin Palace.
The building’s design is largely Islamic, mainly of Indian and Middle-Eastern origin. There are also some Chinese influences as craftsmen from China helped build the palace. The palace is built using high quality timber (cengal wood) and marble, has 15 rooms, and beautifully landscaped gardens with a pool in the centre. >The large balcony. 71
It has not been used for many years since the administrative centre of the state moved to Kuala Lumpur. It is currently being restored to its original state. Istana Bandar Jugra was designated a historical monument and a historical site under the Antiquities Act 1976 in 1980. >The large balcony at the front.
Alaeddin Palace is one of the favourite places for photographers to shoot wedding photos, fashion shots, etc. However permission is needed should one decides to visit Alaeddin Palace as the building does harbour some danger due to certain deteriorated areas such as certain areas of its flooring that has yet to be restored. Permission may be acquired at the Kuala Langat District Office. 73
>The courtyard of the palace.
>A favourite place for photographers. 75
>One of the windows that overlooks the courtyard.
>One of the courtyards. 77
>A long walkway at one of the courtyards.
>One of the halls. 79
Fishing In Jugra
Should you decide to do some fishing there are a few commercial fishing ponds in Jugra that house a few variety of fishes such as barramundis, groupers, and snappers. You can fish them and buy them (prices are set by the weight). You can then bring your catch to your restaurant of choice and have them cook them. >Fish on at the Jugra Barramundi pond.
Jugra Barramundi Pond The fishes there are fun to play with. Charges range from RM3 per fishing rod to RM 35 (per rod) for 3 hours; depending on which pond you go to. The cheaper alternative has a catch. You are not allowed to release any fish that you do not want meaning that you have to pay for every fish you catch. >A barramundi caught at the Jugra Barramundi pond.
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The RM35.00 pond is a catch and release pond. But should you decide to buy the fishes that you catch, you can do so. They too charge according to the weight of the fish or fishes that you intend to buy. Fishes from these ponds taste good as they are fresh. >A fish takes the bait on another trip.
Jugra does have more to offer such as good food, golfing nearby at the Amverton Cove Golf & Island Resort, traditional crafts by the Mah Meri folks at the Mah Meri Cultural Village, and lots more. Contents Page
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
Kampung Sijangkang (Sijangkang Village) Mangrove Recreation Park
What’s In The Name
K
ampung Sijangkang is located in the Kuala Langat district of Selangor. It is essentially a Javanese Malay village that got its name from a tree that is known as the Jangkang tree found in some parts of Indonesia. It is said that a dead Jangkang tree was found in the river and the Chinese word for dead is “si” and both words (Jangkang and si) were put together making the phrase Si Jangkang that meant dead Jangkang tree. The name was later changed to Sijangkang. 85
Mangrove Recreation Park
One of the things to do here in Kampung Sijangkang is to visit the Mangrove Recreation Park. Here, a wooden walkway built on stilts above a mangrove swamp allows visitors to take in the scenery of the mangrove. >Entrance to the Mangrove Recreation Park.
This wooden walkway was built by the villagers to help improve the economy of the Sijangkang Village, hoping to attract more visitors. The Mangrove Recreation Park helps educate visitors about the ecosystem of the mangrove. 87
Along the wooden walkway are various stops (huts or gazebos) that one can sit down and relax while taking in the environment before continuing on with one’s journey to the end of the walkway. >One of the gazebos or stops.
Here there are trees with labels on them stating the names or species of the trees. There are also lots of wildlife that call the mangrove home such as the few species of crabs the likes of fiddler crabs with one claw much larger than the other. >A label that tells the type of tree. This here is the ButaButa tree (non scientific name). 89
Photo Paradise
Photographers will have lots of fun taking photos of the wildlife here. Zoom lenses or telephoto lenses are highly recommended as that is perhaps the only way for one to get up close to any one of the denizens of the mangrove. >A fiddler crab.
>A beautiful fiddler crab about to run back into its home. 91
>The distinctive blue coloured shell of the fiddler crab.
>A different species of crab at the mangrove. 93
There is a small gallery after the entrance of the walkway that explains a little about Kampung Sijangkang with bits of history about the place such as the river, graves, the opening of the village, etc. >The gallery that shares a little about the village.
An entrance fee of RM2.00 (USD0.48) for adults and RM1.00 (USD0.24) for children below 12 year of age is charged. There may be an increase in the entrance fees as the village folks hope to collect more funds to continue developing their mangrove project. 95
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Travel Guide
Escapy
Endah Village (Kampung Endah)
“E
ndah” simply means beauty in the older Malay language. “Kampung” is the Malay word for village. Put both words together and we get Kampung Endah or Beautiful Village. However, since it is a name it is thus called Endah Village.
Endah Village is one of the more organized villages in Malaysia. Houses are built in a sort of organized grid thus ensuring the best or rather most efficient use of land. Endah Village wasn’t always called Endah Village or Kampung Endah. It was once called Kampung Pindah of which meant a relocated Village as three villages were relocated here. They decided to change the name to Endah which sound better. 99
Most Beautiful Village
Endah Village has on numerous times won the “Most Beautiful Village� contest; so much so that they were advised against contesting (or rather barred from contesting), thus making way for other villages to have an opportunity at winning. That they did.
Homestays
Endah Village has lots of homestays (30 over houses) setup for visitors to experience the “kampung life.� These homestays offer traditional games, all you can eat fruits from the orchard during the fruiting season, and a simple serene quiet break from the busy city life.
101
During my visit it was rambutan season. Rambutans are fruits with a hairy shell and sweet meat within. We visited the home of the Village Chief and had our fill of three different species of rambutans from the rambutan trees in his huge garden.
The Village Chief’s house is also part of the homestay program at Endah Village and visitors can rent his house of which is a traditional house with a few rooms available for rent including one done and decorated for honeymooning couple. For now the rooms are not airconditioned. Hopefully in the future he will install airconditioning. One good thing is that guests get to eat all the fruits they want from the trees in his garden. >The living room of the Village Chief’s homestay. 103
>The honeymooner room at the Village Chief’s homestay.
Dodol
“Dodol”is a sweet sticky yummy treat that is popular in a few countries including Malaysia. Personally I love “dodol.” The best “dodol” I have ever had to opportunity of tasting is available here at Endah Village. I have learnt not to buy “dodol” from the larger shops. >The yummiest “dodol“ I have ever had the pleasure of tasting.
105
>The kitchen where some of the best “dodols� are made.
>The “dodol chef” will stirr the the mixture of sweet tasting magic ingrdients that makes the “dodol“ here so yummie, for hours.
107
>I recommend Dodol Salam should you be interested. Contact details available in the picture.
aF rmer’s Market
When at Endah Village, a visit to the farmer’s market is a must. The produce there are fresh from various small farms around the village. Certain food stuffs that are not grown within the village are brought in from outside. >The yummiest “dodol“ I have ever had the pleasure of tasting.
109
One of my favourite treats here at the farmer’s market is the coconut jelly. This cooling, soothing, sweet, and very tasty treat is one that I highly recommend anyone visiting Endah Village to try especially on a hot sunny day. One can feel one’s body cool down as one enjoy this yummy treat.
>Some of the produce grown within the village. 111
>There is a booming mushroom farm at the village.
Beaches
There are two beaches that are close to Endah Village (short driving distance) and they are Morib Beach of which is the more famous one, and Kelanang Beach. Morib Beach is where families go to picnic at. >The nicer Morib Beach. 113
Kelanang Beach on the other hand is a good place to go fishing at, surfcasting in particular. It certainly is not a beach to swim at but the fishing here is said to be grade A. A fishing competition is held here annually. >Kelanang Beach, a very good beach to fish at.
>A small horseshoe crab, a living fossil; shot at Kelanang Beach.
115
Getting There
Endah Village is located in Banting at the coastal areas of the Straits of Malacca, about an hour and a half by car from Kuala Lumpur. One can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur to Banting (nearest town). From here take a taxi to Endah Village. Or you could arrange for transportation with the Homestay operator. >A room at Haji Sitiris Homestay.
Contacts Homestay Kampung Endah En. Ramlan Bin Hj. Misnan Tel: +6013-645 6489 Fax: +603-3198 2312 Address: PSK 11 Jalan Sekolah, Kampung Endah, 42700 Banting, Selangor
Homestay Haji Sitiris Tel: +6019-3977626 Land Line: +603-31981954 Address: PO Box 191, Jalan Randu, Kampung Endah, 42700 Banting, Kuala Langat, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Travel Guide
Escapy
Boh Tea Estate Bukit Cheeding (Cheeding Hill)
T
ea, a beverage enjoyed around the world by millions if not billions of people, is an important commodity and one of the many economy feeding crops for quite a few countries. Malaysia too has a few tea plantations and one of them is the Bukit Cheeding Boh Tea plantation. 119
Low Land Tea
Boh Tea is the largest tea producer in Malaysia with their highland tea plantations in Cameron Highlands being the larger plantations and more well known. The Bukit Cheeding Boh Tea Plantation is Boh’s lesser known lowland tea plantation and the only plantation with tea grown beneath palm trees. >Tea plants below palm trees.
The Hub
Boh Tea in Bukit Cheeding is also the hub or tea collection centre where the processed tea leaves from Cameron Highlands are brought to. Here at Bukit Cheeding, these leaves are packed and distributed (over 100 tonnes or tea dust, 100 tonnes of tea leaves, and 80 tonnes of teabags) out into the various tea drinking countries around the world. >Tea leaves from other Boh plantations land here. 121
Tea And Blends
Boh produces black tea but they do pack other tea blends as well the likes or Earl Grey tea and ginger tea, where Boh adds spices and other natural ingredients to their tea. Other that the usual tea dust and leaves, Boh also produces instant tea such as Boh’s 3 in 1 mixes that come in various flavour such as Boh’s Teh Tarik (pull tea), Green Tea “Teh Tarik,” etc. >Various types of tea by Boh.
>Machines that pack tea.
123
>Tea that has been packed.
>Tea blended with other natural ingredients.
125
>Tea is also packed into teabags here at Cheeding Hill.
>A packet of tea being weighed to ensure the right amount of contents are inside.
127
>Tea being packed into larger boxes by staffs of Boh.
>At another station a staff packs Boh 3 in 1 instant tea into a larger boxes.
129
Paying A Visit
Unlike the Boh Tea gardens in Cameron Highlands, the Bukit Cheeding Boh Tea plantations does not allow walk in visitors. One will have to make an appointment with them in advanced should one intend to visit and learn a little about tea producing processes (study group visits). >Another station with another packing machine.
Things To Do
Other than enhancing one’s knowledge one can also embark on a photography adventure of the tea plantation and some of the fauna, an especially enjoyable affair with nature for macro photographers. >Taking photos at one of the wooden buildings.
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To Make An Appointment
To make an appointment to visit Bukit Cheeding Boh Tea Plantation, do contact the Kuala Langat Municiple Council (Majlis Daerah Kuala Langat). Jalan Sultan Alam Shah, Taman Budiman, 42700 Banting, Selangor, Malaysia Tel: +603 3187 2825
>A nice scenary of tea plants beneath some palm trees.
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Legoland Malaysia Travel News
L
ego, the building blocks that many of us grew up playing has certainly found a place in many of our hearts. Imagine then an entire land made up of Lego bricks. Well, almost an entire land. Legoland Malaysia, the first Legoland in Asia, is that land that those of us who grew up building with Lego blocks want to visit. >The entrance to Legoland Malaysia. 135
Halloween Brick-Or-Treat
Now is no better a time to visit Legoland Malaysia as they celebrate Halloween with the Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights. Yes the Brick-Or-Treat Party is held at night but not every night. The Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights is available on these dates: September 2016: 16th-17th, 23rd-24th, 30th October 2016: 1st, 7th-8th, 14th-15th, 21st-22nd, 28th-29th >The Haloween Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights is lots of fun.
What’s There
There are lots of activities for the whole family. There will be stage shows, storytelling tours, fun activities, etc., and not forgetting the many rides at the Legoland Malaysia theme park that are lots of fun. >Monster Catcher’s Mayhem stage play at the Kingdom, Castle Stage. 137
Follow The Halloween Trail
Just for fun, follow the Halloween trail that has 10 stops. Every stop gives one an opportunity to collect prizes such as titbits, colour pencils, etc. There are also activities on the stops such as a shouting contest, Star Wars Miniland Activity, Lord Vampire’s maze, etc. >Follow the trail at night and collect some prizes.
Monster Catcher Mayhem Show
This stage show is a comedy stage play that rings laughter to everyone. The show is designed for children but adults too will find it funny and quite entertaining. During the show there will be a best dress contest where winners get to win prizes. >Monster Catcher’s Mayhem is a funny comdey stage play that kids will enjoy. 139
Spooky Miniland Tour
There is a spooky tour that goes around Miniland stopping at certain places where story tellers tell a spooky yet funny story. While the objective of the tour is to enjoy the experience, one gets a chop at the end of the tour as it is one of the activities on the Halloween trail >Follow the spooky tour to a few stops and listen to the spooky stories shared by story tellers.
>Adults and kids watching the Monster Catcher’s Mayhem show.
141
>Winners of the Halloween best dressed contest.
>Children on stage for a photo session with Lord Vampire, the witch, monster catchers, and bosses.
143
>The Monsters dance.
>Monsters on the loose at Legoland Kingdom. 145
Legoland Special Promotions
The Legoland Halloween Brick-Or-Treat Party Night certainly is a party one should not miss. Bring the whole family and book a stay with the special Halloween Day & Night Promotion. Booking Period: 25th August to 30th October 2016 Stay Period: 18th September to 31st October 2016 >The most fun rooms in any hotel or resort in Malaysia is in Legoland Malaysia Resort.
>The lovely lobby of the Legoland Malaysia Resort. 147
Package Includes
- Daily Breakfast. - Dinner for 2 adults and up to 3 children below 6 years of age (3rd adult or child above 7 years is chargeable at RM95 per adult and RM50 per child. - Halloween Brick-Or-Treat Commemorative Brick (one brick per child in room, while stocks last). - Day and Night Hotel Halloween activities (Colouring, Witch Cat Building Speed Challenge, Ghostly Bowling, Three Magic Withces musical performance, Little Chef Pastry Making, and lots more >Working area in the room.
>Castle at the lobby. 149
Legoland Malaysia Resort Halloween Promotions:
- Annual Pass Holders get to enter free and bring a friend for just RM70. - Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights Tickets (4pm-9pm entry) at RM85. - Online promotion for day tickets : Buy 3 and get 1 free. - Maybank Card Holder Specials: 25% off on Halloween tickets upon purchase at the ticketing window. >The many Lego people at the front office.
>The Bricks Family Restaurant. 151
Come And Have Fun
Well, go party with Lord Vampire and his friends at Legoland Malaysia and have your family and yourself a swell time before time runs out. Enjoy!
>The Bricks Family Restaurant, the main restaurant at Legoland Malaysia Resort.
>Giant Lego knights guard the entrances to Legoland Malaysia Resort.
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Travel News
A Day Out With Tourism Selangor #TSDayout2016
T
ourism Selangor has been hard at work promoting Selangor to tourist both local and overseas. Recently I embarked on a day out with Tourism Selangor called the TSDayout 2016 where we experienced the Sepang 1000km race, enjoyed the scenic Paya Indah Wetland, and got to race a gokart. >Shot taken at the starting grid of the Sepang 1,0000km. 155
Stop 1: Paya Indah Wetlands
Our first stop was the Paya Indah Wetlands. Paya Indah Wetlands is a nice place to visit. It is an area where the beauty of nature is preserved. It is a 450 hectares sanctuary with about 210 species of birds (migratory and residential), over 50 crocodiles, hippopotamus’, many fish species, etc. >A crocodile relaxing in the morning..
There are plenty of activities for the family to do there such as cycling, angling, boating, nature walks, bird watching, hippopotamus feeding, crocodile feeding, fish feeding, Night 4WD Safari, tours, etc. >Mother nature showing off her beauty.
157
Photographers Field Day
Photographers will certainly have a field day with so much to shoot. Action shots are a plenty especially during the animal feeding times. There are lots of insects and flowers to shoot. Of course birds. Photo opportunities are just a plenty. >Pelicans hanging about at the lake.
>Corcodile feeding time at the lake where crocodiles call home. 159
>A hippopotamus asking for food .
Stop 2: Sepang International Circuit
For those with a need for speed, The Sepang International Circuit is certainly the place to be especially during races and car test drives. Many races are raced here including certain intenational GT races and the world famous, F1. >Pit stops.
161
We were there to experience the Sepang 1,000km endurance race, and at the same time go behind the scenes to places not open to public (circuit tour). We visited the pits where crews paid attention to the race, media centre, race control room, etc. >A Porsche coming in for what looks like a time trial.
The Sepang International Circuit is designed by German designer Hermann Tilke who designed few other F1 venues such as Marina Bay, Valencia, etc. The main circuit is 5.543 kilometres long with sweeping corners and wide straights. >One of the teams racing the Sepang 1,000km race. 163
>Hot on the tail...
>One of the pits where teams are busy trying to win the race.
165
>A racing car being pushed back into the pit.
>An F1 car sitting in wait at one of the parking areas.
167
>Race control, the brains of the circuit.
>The Perdana Lounge where VIPs watch races from.
169
>The race is about to begin.
>Track girls / models posing for the multitude of cameras at the grid. 171
>Teams at the grid posing for the cameras.
>My friend is racing too in this race.
173
Stop 3: Sepang International Kart Circuit
On our next stop we got to race ourselves. Te Sepang International Kart Circuit is a 1.247km long track that is 10 metres wide. It has 11 challenging bends. It is designed by renowned F1 Track designer, Hermann Tilke. >There was a race going on when we arrived. Those guys are really fast.
The Sepang International Kart Circuit is a professional kart racing circuit sanctioned by the Commission Internationale de Karting (CIK) under the Federation Internationale de Automobile (FIA) for Asia Zone C. >The make shift tents that act as pits for the teams racing here. 175
>A sneaky go-kart racer is creeping up behind.
>The happiest participant on the track.
177
The Sepang International Kart Circuit has go-karts on rental for those who want to experience racing a go-kart. Series 1 Karts: RM42.40 (USD10.30) per pax
200cc, 4 stroke engine, 6.5bhp
Series 2 Karts: RM106.00 (USD25.75)per pax
100cc, 2 stroke, Engine 16 horsepower
Series 3 Karts: RM159.00 (USD38.62)
125cc, 2 stroke, Engine 21 horsepower
>We, the amatures, raced each other; an experience worth every penny, Dollar, Ringgit, etc.
>A great opportunity to practise panning especially when fellow team mates are so obliging.
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For Foodies
Philemon Foo
Gourmet Safari Kuala Lumpur
I
love to eat and was happy to learn about a “Gourmet Safari” available right in Changkat Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur; thanks to an invitation by Gaya Travel and Tourism Malaysia. This here is a foodie’s adventure. 181
Opium
Our food adventure started at the Opium, a restaurant with an olden day classical Chinese atmosphere; one right off the set of a Chinese drama depicting the days of old in China where men sat around smoking opium, drinking wine, and enjoying each other’s companion with ladies in hand. >A setting depicting olden days China.
>Drawers used in days of old in China.
183
>The arrival of our starters.
Starter: The Emperor’s Fore Play
Well that was just a depiction. At the Opium one sits around a table with friends and enjoy a starter, the start to a wonderful adventure of the taste buds. At the Opium we were served Cajun Prawn with Mango Salad, and an alcoholic started called the Consort Yang a cocktail made of Gin, lychee, ginger flower, Kaffir lime leaves, and lemon juice. >Consort Yang cocktail. 185
>Cajun prawn with mango salad.
>A fiery pot of tea... 187
>A picture of an opium pot.
Dining In The Dark Kuala Lumpur
The next stop of our Gourmet Safari is Dining In The Dark Kuala Lumpur where one dines in total darkness so dark that should one puts one hands in front of one’s face, one would probably knock into it. Visually impaired waiters are our only guides within the restaurant. Should one decide to stand up and walk about, one will certainly go missing. >Dine in total darkness. 189
It is said that dining in the dark sharpens one’s senses especially the sense of taste. Well, it didn’t work for me sadly, but nevertheless, the experience was indeed fun and something new. Of the four dishes I tasted, I could make out two of them. >How dark could it be? There is a picture of a black ant somewhere here. Try lookinh for it. That dark.
Four Sensual Pleasures
a. Fried chicken and shrimp parcel on cucumber chutney b. Roasted eggplant, red pepper and onions with thyme smoked lamb c. Orange, pomegranate and lettuce salad with vinaigrette
d. Smoked mackerel on a leek and mushroom stew The dishes were served with a glass of Chilean Chardonnay, year 2013; TerraMater, Paso Del Sol. 191
>Behind this door is total absolute darkness.
After dining in the dark we headed to The Steakhouse and enjoyed one of the best steaks paired with red wine. We were served Beef Medallion on garlic mashed, and red wine sauce. This was paired with a glass of red wine; Italian, from Villa Almadi Valpolicella. >Really good steaks are available here.
193
>Villa Almadi Valpolicella; medium bodied and dry, with a hint of cherries, raspberries, and plum with a floral note.
>Beef Medallion on garlic mashed, and red wine sauce. Simply delicious.
195
El Cerdo
From The Steakhouse we headed to El Cerdo a restaurant that serves mainly pork dishes. One of the things to do here is to break one’s plate after one’s finishes one’s meal (certain meals only). >This restaurant is all about pork.
>Greetings and welcome to El Cerdo. 197
Be My Babe
The name of our experience here is called “Be My Babe� that comes with grilled pork shoulder steak that has been marinated for 48 hours in paprika, herbs, onions, garlic, and served with jalapeno and smoked paprika sauce. This dish is paired with a bottle of 2014 Balduzzi Merlot from Chile. >Cute piggy light.
Black Forest German Restaurant And Bar
>This German restaurant and bar is quite neat.
199
Schnapps
After having all that meat we needed some help with digestion. What better way is there than to down a shot of Schnapps, called “A Quickie” here at the Gourmet Safari. We downed a shot of Cherry Schnapps by Altes Schwarzwälder Kirschwasser from Germany. >A quick shot and we’re out of here.
The Whiskey Bar Kuala Lumpur
Our next stop is The Whiskey Bar Kuala Lumpur. Here one gets to play “whiskey scientist” mixing water with one’s whiskey or drinking it with ice (wasting away good whiskey). We had a shot of Chivas Regal Extra. >Playing scientist with whiskey. 201
Happy Ending
As we enjoyed our whiskey, we got to play “mad scientist� on the side. We were given a platter with Camembert cheese, strawberries, Bananas, and marshmallows with a chocolate dip. We then got to drowned these treats in a bowl of liquid nitrogen creating an illusion of a mad scientist at work as smoke slowly flows out of the said mug. What a lovely experience. >The magic of liquid nitrogen.
The Forbidden City
>A lovely cocktail to go with good music. What a night. 203
Music For The Soul
Our Gourmet Safari ended at the Forbidden City where we sat back and relax as the Jamie Wilson Trio blues band played some hard rocking blues tunes; my kind of music. The Gourmet Safari is a must do should one visits the wonderful city of Kuala Lumpur. Just head over to Changkat Bukit Bintang and lookout for the Opium; the “den” where your adventure senses and taste begin. >A quick shot and we’re out of here.
For More Information...
... Click The Link Below: www.gourmetsafarikl.com Contents Page
205
For Foodies
Escapy
Hungry In Banting? Checkout
Wak Dol Soto
S
hould you be in Banting and find yourself stuck in a dilemma of not knowing what to eat, head out to the food stalls at Taman Budiman (Budiman Garden) and give Wak Dol Soto a go. Soto is a soup with vegetables and meat in it. It comes served with noodles and rice here at Wak Dol Soto.
207
Origins
Soto is served in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore; however it originated in Indonesia. In Indonesia there are a variety of sotos of which are essentially soup with various types of vegetables and meat, and can be spicy or non-spicy. >A lovely bowl of soto.
Not To Be Missed
Wak Dol Soto is certainly a must try when one comes to Banting as it is hailed by many to be the best soto in Banting. The soup is really tasty and I love the fried vermicelli noodles put into the bowl of soto. They turn soft and starts to almost melt in the mouth. Lovely! >Behind the scenes; in the kitchen.
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Additional Information Owner: Jefri Bin Tabuti and Fazliza Ayob (wife) Address: Persiaran Majlis, Taman Budiman, 42700 Banting, Selangor, Malaysia. Contact: +6013 3087769 Business Hours: 10.30am – 10pm (closed on Thursdays) Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/GA1mjhLGV632
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211
Introducin’
The Asian Angler
Coleman 12 Hour Soft Cooler Bag (Backpack)
W
hen we go out for a day at a park or on a road trip, many a times we wish to have something cold to drink especially on a hot day. The Coleman 12 Hour Soft Cooler Bag allows you to keep drinks cool for 12 hours. 213
Keep The Cool
The Coleman 12 Hour Soft Cooler Bag helps contain the cool inside and thus keeping drinks and any other items to be kept cool, cool together with ice packs to slow down the increase of temperature.
Additional Storage
Should one need additional storage, the Coleman 12 Hour Soft Cooler Bag comes with two meshed side pockets that allows one to put a variety of things like a battery fan, raincoats, maps, etc. It also has a holding space using elastic cords for larger things like a small roll up mat as an example. 215
Better Comfort
The Coleman 12 Hour Soft Cooler Bag comes with padded shoulder straps for additional comfort. These straps are insulated allowing for some breathing or air space between the strap and one’s shoulders.
Tough
When it comes to toughness, the Coleman 12 Hour Soft Cooler Bag is built tough with high quality threads and materials allowing one to go on one’s trips with peace of mind and not having to worry if one’s bag will make it. 217
Neat Bag
The Coleman 12 Hour Soft Cooler Bag is well designed and is a neat backpack to carry about keeping items inside safe as the walls of the bag are well padded. So it’s not just to keep what’s inside cool, it offers protection too. The Coleman 12 Hour Soft Cooler Bag certainly is one neat bag.
For More Information
Coleman Concept Store LG2.137, Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall No.3, Jalan PJS 11/15, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. Tel: 1300 88 8388 Contents Page
219
Goodies
Coleman WeatherTec System Keeps You Dry
T
our tent is the most important piece of equipment of your camping trip. The tent is your home away from home. Campers have many choices in selecting a tent or shelter that will meet a variety of needs. Tents are offered in cabins, domes and other geometric shapes that provide many storage and comfort options. Choose a tent that meets your outdoor recreation needs for protection, comfort, size, weight and features. By choosing carefully, you are laying a strong foundation for years of enjoyable camping experiences.
Website: http://coleman.com.my/ Note: May not be available in certain market
.
PDF Readers: Click Link To Watch Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B3UcsC-k68
Website: http://coleman.com.my/ Note: May not be available in certain market
. Contents Page
221
Goodies
Oakley速 Flak 2.0 XL Polarized Sunglasses
O
akley engineering takes performance to the next level and brings style along for the ride. Flak 2.0 offers a standard size frame with enhanced lens coverage, and every millimeter of the lens is optimized with High Definition Optics速 in a ruggedly durable yet lightweight design. Designed to push your limits with patented XYZ Optics速 for razor sharp clarity and secure grip of Unobtanium速
Click HERE to go to site
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Note: May not be available in certain markets
Contents Page
Goodies
Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve
I
ntense overland missions require both speed and hiking performance. Add in stream crossings, and you need this water-ready, agile hiking shoe. Its open designed, watershedding upper hugs your foot to an aggressive, responsive trail platform made to flex naturally and connect to terrain, while protecting underfoot.
223
Freatures UPPER/LINING • Waxy waterproof leather fabric upper • Lycra™ neoprene stretch collar for easy on and off • M Select™ FRESH antimicrobial agents reduce shoe odor
MIDSOLE/OUTSOLE • UniFly™ midsole connects you to the trail, protects you from the terrain • 3 mm lug depth • TC5+Vibram™ outsole • Weight: 1lb 5oz
http://www.merrell.com/US/en/all-out-blaze-sieve/17573M.html Note: May not be available in certain markets
Contents Page
225
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