» Things http://thaholiday.com Fri, 13 Mar 2015 13:44:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 5 Fun Things to Do In Penang http://thaholiday.com/5-fun-things-to-do-in-penang/ http://thaholiday.com/5-fun-things-to-do-in-penang/#comments Thu, 11 Jul 2013 15:13:19 +0000 http://thaholiday.com/?p=8284 Beachy, foodie Penang is a great stopover for visitors to Malaysia. Located just south of the Thai border, this province consisting of a strip of coastline and Pulau Penang boasts quaint colonial architecture, laid-back beach resorts, and fantastic ethnic and fusion cuisine. Here are five fun things to do while visiting Penang: 1) Hit the […]

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Beachy, foodie Penang is a great stopover for visitors to Malaysia. Located just south of the Thai border, this province consisting of a strip of coastline and Pulau Penang boasts quaint colonial architecture, laid-back beach resorts, and fantastic ethnic and fusion cuisine. Here are five fun things to do while visiting Penang:

1) Hit the Beach at Batu Ferringhi

Romantic sunset at the beach (Photo by epSos .de)

Eat, shop and relax along the beach at Batu Ferringhi. In daylight hours, play in the water or rise above it on a parasail. At night, check into a resort along the waterfront and browse the night markets and food stalls. Batu Ferringhi is on the north tip of the island and can be accessed by public bus from Georgetown.

2) Devour Street Food—And Don’t Forget the Chendul

Chendul (also spelled cendol) (Photo by Jan)

In Penang, your best options for dinner might be right on the pavement in front of your hotel. Malaysian street food is good all over the country, but Penang’s offerings of Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisine from roadside stalls are some of the best in the nation. Though there are countless dishes to tempt the palate, don’t forget to have a big bowl of sweet, icy chendul (also spelled cendol) on a hot afternoon. Made with cane sugar, pandan noodles and other ingredients, it’s one of the oddest looking, best-tasting foods in the province.

3) Flutter with the Butterflies

Penang Butterfly Farm (Photo by McKay Savage )

Penang has one of the best-reviewed butterfly farms in Southeast Asia. Located in Teluk Bahang, the Penang Butterfly Farm is a butterfly and insect sanctuary that seems part museum, part zoo, and part research facility. Visitors are allowed to wander among the free-flying butterflies or stop by closed terrariums of insects and lizards and marvel at the diversity within nature.

4) Take a Trishaw Tour

Uncle Trishaw (Photo by SioW )

There’s a lot to absorb in Georgetown. In the old colonial district, and by the wharf, most of the buildings have colonnades protecting narrow sidewalks. Pedestrians may have a hard time catching the great facades of these beautiful, pastel-painted buildings while on foot. Taking a trishaw tour of the downtown not only covers most of the highlights of the UNESCO-rated architecture downtown but will also give your feet a rest and your eyes a treat.

5) Get Above It All on Penang Hill

Penang Hill (Photo by Khalzuri Yazid)

If you’re not used to the Malaysian heat, you might want to head up to Penang Hill for some refreshing breezes and great panoramas. About 800 meters above sea level, this park is a cool, popular attraction for visitors and locals. On top of the hill, have a meal in the restaurant and visit the three houses of worship: a church, a mosque and a Hindu temple. You can get to Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera is the Malaysian name) by taking the funicular from Air Itam or, if you love flowers and don’t mind walking in the heat, you can walk up the hill through the botanical gardens.

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Bangkok’s top 10 things to do: Don’t miss out on these http://thaholiday.com/bangkoks-top-10-things-to-do-dont-miss-out-on-these/ http://thaholiday.com/bangkoks-top-10-things-to-do-dont-miss-out-on-these/#comments Sat, 15 Jun 2013 15:40:32 +0000 http://thaholiday.com/?p=7706 Bangkok is one of the most interesting, perplexing, and famously cultural Asian cities on the map. This cosmopolitan city is hectic and even overwhelming at times, however it has a compelling draw for most people who visit. While in this mega city full of lights, smiles, massage parlors and tuk-tuks, you surely shouldn’t miss these […]

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Bangkok is one of the most interesting, perplexing, and famously cultural Asian cities on the map. This cosmopolitan city is hectic and even overwhelming at times, however it has a compelling draw for most people who visit. While in this mega city full of lights, smiles, massage parlors and tuk-tuks, you surely shouldn’t miss these top 10 things to do.

Just getting started:

1) River cruise

River cruise in the Chao Phraya River (Photo by Mark Fischer)

To get yourself a bit more acquainted with the city and perhaps not shock yourself, a peaceful and beautiful night ride down the Chao Phraya River that snakes through this magnificent city would be a nice place to start. You will pass the highly revered and sparkling temples that sit along the river like Wat Arun to Phra Sumeru.

2) Grand Palace

Grand Palace (Photo by Greg Knapp)

Another temple that should be on your list as well, is the Grand Palace. This famous Bangkok landmark has been the home to Thailand’s King for 150 years and it’s marvelous architecture and intricate details will blow you away.

3) Tuk-tuk ride

Tuk-tuk in Bangkok (Photo by Colin Tsoi)

Before we go any further with this list, your trip to Bangkok will not be complete without a ride in tuk-tuk. These obnoxiously loud vehicles come in all shapes and sizes. Some fit two people, some cram in five or more. Whatever tuk-tuk you find, be sure to whip out your best negotiating skills and then hop in for a ride anywhere. Depending how far you are away from any of the next items on this list, a tuk-tuk will likely be the best way to get around anyway.

Sky High and Good Eats:

4) Skybars

Sit up high in Sirocco & Sky Bar (Photo by Sirocco & SkyBar Management)

To get a better glimpse of Bangkok, you should fly up to one of the many sky bars the city offers. Sirocco, from the Hangover 2 movie, and Vertigo Moon Bar are popular choices. Get here before sundown for the best photo opportunities and one of the best seats in the house.

5) Chinatown Market

Chinatown, Bangkok (Photo by Heiko S)

To get the cheapest, best tasting fare, and be surrounded by complete madness, you must checkout the Chinatown Market. With amazing deals to be had, and more food than you can stomach, you have worked your way up to dealing with a true Bangkok street market.

Shopaholics:

6) Floating Market

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (Photo by Dennis Jarvis)

For the most interesting shopping experience of your life, check out Bangkok’s floating market. This narrow river full of boats will be a first for your eyes guaranteed. Who else can say they floated down a river and bought fruits, vegetables, and coconut juice straight off another boat that floated by?

7) Chatuchak market

Chatuchak Market (Photo by Nan-Cheng Tsai)

Should you still be in the shopping mood, get ready for the largest weekend market in the world, Chatuchak market. From spiritual trinkets to exotic animals, clothes and handicrafts, this market literally has it all. You could spend all day here and still not see the entire market. It sprawls over 27 acres and has over 15,000 booths to browse and blow money on.

8) Thai massage

Thai foot massage (Photo by taylorandayumi)

If your feet are sore and hands tired from holding all those bags, it sounds like a nice massage will do you well. Thai’s are known for their massages and they are so cheap, you won’t feel as guilty treating yourself after all that shopping. A Thai massage is a nice experience but not as relaxing as their oil massages. Lay back and enjoy, you deserve it.

Party Punch:

9) Muay Thai Fight

A Muay Thai fight will give your holiday a nice punch (Photo by Josh Evnin)

To start you night off with an exciting event, you should certainly check out Thailand’s ultimate sport, Muay Thai. There are stadiums scattered about the city but Lumpini Stadium happens to be the most popular. There is a fight going down nearly every night of the week.

10) Khao San Road

Khao San Road (Photo by Robert Brands)

To finish your night off with a sinful touch make your way to the backpackers ghetto, also know as, Khao San Road. Party like you have never partied before, down more whiskey buckets than you can remember, and make it home at the wee hours of the morning. It will be the most epic ending to your tour of Bangkok.

There is a world of things to get into while you are here in Bangkok. Hundreds of temples, sinful bars, traditional Thai dances and performances, gourmet to market fare, cooking classes, tailor made clothes, and more. The list is endless when you are in the “Sin city of Asia.” So be sure to not miss out these must do activities, and try to make time to explore even more.

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10 Romantic Things to Do in Singapore http://thaholiday.com/10-romantic-things-to-do-in-singapore/ http://thaholiday.com/10-romantic-things-to-do-in-singapore/#comments Sun, 26 May 2013 11:44:56 +0000 http://thaholiday.com/?p=7384 Singapore is known for its shopping, cuisine and cleanliness. But despite its very practical image, Singapore can also be a romantic place to visit. Alongside Singapore’s shops and squeaky-clean streets are unique opportunities to show your special someone just how much you love him or her. Here are a list of 10 great destinations and […]

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Singapore is known for its shopping, cuisine and cleanliness. But despite its very practical image, Singapore can also be a romantic place to visit.

Alongside Singapore’s shops and squeaky-clean streets are unique opportunities to show your special someone just how much you love him or her. Here are a list of 10 great destinations and activities you can indulge in as a couple during a romantic Singapore getaway.

An Orchid by Any Other Name: Gardens by the Bay

Supertrees (Photo by Choo Yut Shing)

Contemplate nature and your beloved amongst the blooms at Singapore’s state-of-the-art Gardens by the Bay. Exhibiting native and exotic plants in both indoor and outdoor settings, the Gardens by the Bay allows for happy ramblings up a man-made mountain biome, under energy- and water-conserving Supertrees, and through a series of nature trails.

The Gardens are located on Marina Gardens Drive, near the Marina Bay Sands. For inexpensive romance, visiting the outdoor gardens is free, while entrance to the conservatories costs between SGD$8 and $28.

Go Chic or Go Home: The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark’s KU DÉ TA and The Chocolate Bar

KU DÉ TA Sky Terrace

One of Singapore’s must-see sights is the unique architecture of the Marina Bay Sands hotel. Opened in 2011, the hotel-resort complex is now a signature part of the Singaporean skyline. Consisting of three towers topped by a one-hectare terrace called the SkyPark, it’s almost 200 meters high.

While looking at modern architecture might not be everyone’s definition of a romantic activity, two of the venues located on the SkyPark definitely make the grade for swooningly romantic places for a lovers’ rendezvous, an intimate meal, or even a proposal.

KU DÉ TA, a restaurant and club lounge on the SkyPark, is probably the best venue in all of Singapore to watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail. If you’ve already got evening plans, even a simple lunch on the terrace overlooking the city will help you foster that feeling of get-away-from-it-all. Visiting KU DÉ TA in the evenings is also a great excuse to dress up: “stylish chic” is the stated dress code for visitors after 6 p.m.

Or, for sweet-toothed sweethearts, a buffet at The Chocolate Bar in the Sands SkyPark will make a date to remember. For SGD $38 per person, try up to 57 hand-crafted sinfully sweet desserts.

Their signature delicacy? The “Botanica,” a tribute to the neighboring Gardens by the Bay. It’s described as “Sicilian Sable baked with fresh raspberries, topped with white Chocolate-Marigold Whipped Ganache and sprinkled with an edible flower.” In a word? Decadent.

Love is a Wheel: The Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer (Photo by Cheryl Leong)

Most visitors to Singapore focus on the street-level: shopping, eating and history. So it makes sense that romantic getaways in the city-state are ones that take you above it all. One great option to get in a view while holding hands is a ride on the Singapore Flyer. This 42-story-high Ferris wheel sits on the reclaimed land of the Marina Centre. During its 30-minute rotation, visitors get a 360-degree vista of the city and its historical landmarks. On a clear day, you may see all the way to the Straits of Johor and the Indonesian Spice Islands. One rotation for an adult costs $33. Watching the sunset while spinning above the city is a good start to a romantic evening out.

And, if you’d like some refreshment while watching the city spin by, the Singapore Flyer offers a cozy four-course meal-and-flight package for two. This includes two full rotations (“flights”)of the wheel, with dessert, coffee and tea. It costs $269 per couple.

If that seems a bit too pricey to be truly romantic (you don’t want the worry about paying your credit card bills to get in the way of contemplating your future together), you could indulge in the less expensive High Tea Flight for SGD $99 per couple, or try one of the cocktail flights. The cocktail flight’s SGD $69 fee per person includes a signature cocktail souvenir glass. You can choose between a Singapore Sling or a “Signature” cocktail. Or, for the same price, you can have a Moet & Chandon Champagne Flight while nibbling on strawberries and chocolates.

River Romance: A Cruise of the Singapore River

Marina Bay Sands laser light show (Photo by Erwin Soo)

Water lovers will want to take in the Marina Bay Sands’ laser light show (at 8 and 9:30 p.m. on weeknights) as they drift along the Singapore River. Or, hop a boat in the daytime to see the city’s skyline and historic elements from the water. Being on the river is a breezy and fun way to spend time with your loved one as you snap photos of the city sights.

There are several tour companies offering river cruises, for example the traditional “bumboats” cruise, leaving from many points throughout the city. You can find several cruises at Clarke Quay or the Esplanade, or ask at your hotel front desk for their recommendation.

Hearts in History: Fort Canning Hill

Walk path in Fort Canning Hill (Photo by Teddy Sipaseuth)

At only 60 meters above sea level, Fort Canning Hill won’t provide you and your honey with a marvelous vista. But it will allow you to stroll arm-in-arm in one of Singapore’s famous spots for lovers. If you’ve got a mind to follow a trail, the National Parks system provides a self-guided tour map depicting points of Singaporean history on the hill.

Or, take a cue from the locals and just wander the grounds together before seeking out a quiet bench and staring deeply into each other’s eyes.

Fly Away with Me: Dinner for Two on a Cable Car from Mount Faber

Mount Faber Cable Car Station (Photo by Choo Yut Shing )

Mount Faber is a tourist destination blessed with great views at any time of day. At night, the city lights 100 meters below make Mount Faber an extra-special place for an evening stroll or a romantic dinner in one of the hilltop restaurants.

For an all-out declaration of love, book the Jewel Box’s SkyDining experience: a three-course meal in your very own cable car shuttling over the city between Mount Faber and Sentosa. When booking, you can also choose to have the car draped in flowers. Dinner with the floral option costs SGD $488 per couple, while a regular cabin costs SGD $218 per couple.

A Sensual Treat: Spa Botanica’s Couples Package

Spa Botanica on Sentosa (Photo by TOMODA )

Why not pamper your love? Vacations are fun, but they’re not always relaxing. Take the stress out of your sightseeing by spending a “Spa Two-Gether Day” with your beloved at the tropical Spa Botanica on Sentosa.

This package allows the two of you to indulge in a series of relaxing treatments simultaneously. Enjoy a body scrub, Vichy shower, body wrap, massage, and petal bath with an intermission for a light lunch. This might be the perfect way to soothe your bodies and renew your commitment to a harmonious life together.

Teamwork for Two: Rent a Tandem Bike on the Eastern Coastal Park Connector Network

Cycling in East Coast Park (Photo by Qinrong Lim)

Prove what a good team you and your lover are by renting tandem bikes and cycling along Singapore’s Eastern Coastal Park Connector Network.

The network links up the city’s parks and nature sites in a 42 km green sweep, with plenty of places to stop and smell the orchids. If you’ve never tried it before, tandem cycling is great fun, but a little bit challenging. Some tips: put the most experienced cyclist on the front seat. This “captain” is in charge of balancing and steering the bike–so it should be a good measure of your trust in each other! The rider in the back, “the stoker,” won’t have to steer, so should be in charge of encouraging words, light shoulder rubs, and taking plenty of pictures.

Bikes can be rented along the Connector Network, for example at East Coast Park or Changi Beach.

Snuggle Up: Take a Trishaw Tour

Trishaw Tour in Little India (Photo by Choo Yut Shing )

Get to know the city while you snuggle up to your sweetie on a trishaw tour of Singapore. Trishaws, also called cycle rickshaws or pedicabs, are bicycle-powered carts that seat two people behind the driver. The cycle rickshaw was first used in Singapore in the 1920s, and the invention quickly spread to neighboring Asian nations. Now, nostalgic trishaw tour routes encompass Bugis, Little India, and the Singapore River. This popular tourist jaunt lets you experience sights and sounds of street-side Singapore that you would miss on a motorized tour, and the small seats give you a great excuse to wrap your arms around each other in public.

Whether you’re in Singapore for a quick weekend away, or whether you have a longer period of time to explore the city, there are plenty of opportunities and places to add a romantic vibe to your trip.  What are your favorite romantic places in Singapore? Tell us in the comments!

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Eat, Pray, Laugh: 10 Things to Do in Manila, Philippines http://thaholiday.com/10-things-to-do-in-manila-philippines/ http://thaholiday.com/10-things-to-do-in-manila-philippines/#comments Sun, 03 Mar 2013 16:17:18 +0000 http://thaholiday.com/?p=5657 It’s easy to see Manila as a city of bumper-to-bumper cars in rush hour and overlook the pockets of charm that it exudes when the monsoon rains come. But look past its urban trappings and the vagaries of weather to experience the city’s character that provides an apt introduction to Filipino culture and heritage, and […]

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It’s easy to see Manila as a city of bumper-to-bumper cars in rush hour and overlook the pockets of charm that it exudes when the monsoon rains come. But look past its urban trappings and the vagaries of weather to experience the city’s character that provides an apt introduction to Filipino culture and heritage, and even to the people’s spontaneous warmth and willingness to go out of their way to make their visitors’ stay memorable. These 10 things to do in Manila, Philippines will make you see the city with new eyes and in a new light.

1. Retrace the footsteps of Rizal from his cell in Intramuros to his place of execution

Rizal Monument on Rizal Day

Jose Rizal’s literary works angered the Spanish authorities that he was eventually punished for inciting rebellion with his books. He was incarcerated in what is now known as the Rizal Museum in Intramuros, and he was led from a nearby cell to his death by firing squad in what is now called the Rizal Park. He was publicly executed on December 30, 1896, an event that fueled the growing discontent of Filipinos against their colonizers.

2. Light a candle in Quiapo Church

Feast of the Black Nazarene at the Quiapo Church (Photo by denvie balidoy)

Being a predominantly Catholic city, Manila is home to a multitude of religious festivities that culminate on January 9 when the Black Nazarene (a miraculous black image of Jesus Christ bearing a cross) of Quiapo Church is brought out for public veneration, a procession that attracts (eight) millions of the Catholic faithful. On any given day, Quiapo Church overflows with churchgoers as they hear mass or line up in front of the Black Nazarene replica to pray for miracles, healing or a better life.

3. Shop until you drop in Divisoria

168 Mall in Divisoria (Photo by dodong flores)

Divisoria is Manila’s busiest and most crowded market district, and for good reason. Here, a penny-conscious shopper can stretch her pesos as she contemplates on a smorgasbord of retail delights that are easy on the eyes and easier on the budget.

4. Ride the jeepney

Jeepney (Photo by Patricia Feaster)

The jeepneys came to the Philippines during the American occupation, and they have become a fixture of public transport when American surplus jeeps after WWII were converted to carry civilians instead. Today, jeepneys have become part of the country’s culture as ingrained to the Filipino psyche as Catholicism (that the Spanish introduced).

5. Enjoy Ermita, night and day

Manila Ocean Park (Photo by Roberto Verzo)

Ermita is where the concentration of Manila attractions can be found. By day, you can easily fill up your itineraries by hopping from Manila Ocean Park to the Museum of the Filipino People. At night, Ermita and adjoining district Malate, light up with hedonistic delights that are sure to spark your partygoing instinct.

6. Join the Old Manila Walks

San Agustin Church inside the walled city of Intramuros (Photo by Jun Acullador)

As the name suggests, this tour, operated by private individuals, is nothing short of epic. Old Manila comprises Intramuros, the 400-year old Walled City that the Spanish built on the existing site of a Tagalog village; Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world; San Miguel, the district that plays home to Malacanang Palace, the Philippine president’s office and living quarters; and Far Eastern University, home to classic Filipino art.

7. Sample Filipino cuisine and street food

Chicken and pork adobo (Photo by Ace Armstrong)

Filipinos are resourceful not only in converting US Army surplus jeeps into vehicles for public transport (see jeepneys), but also in making limited ingredients go a long way. This resourcefulness, coupled with kitchen creativity, brings about culinary delights that both tickle and intrigue the palate. ‘Adobo’, ‘lechon’ and ‘bulalo’ tickle; ‘balut’ and ‘isaw’ intrigue.

8. Visit the Museum of the Filipino People

Ayala Museum (Photo by Jun Acullador)

No visit to a city is ever complete without taking a holistic view of the country’s heritage and culture in one sitting, or walking. The Museum houses the skullcap of the Tabon man, the earliest human remains found in the country.

9. Laugh out loud

Malate Church (Photo by Jun Acullador)

Filipinos are known to make light of their dire situation. Flooding in Manila or squabbles in the local polls are often made fodders of jokes onstage and off. Malate and the greater Manila area are home to some of the country’s best stand up comedians.

10. Wine and dine on board a Manila cruise

Manila Bay sunset (Photo by R924)

Since the Pasig River ferry service has been suspended indefinitely last year, the best way to experience Manila on water is to splurge a little and enjoy cocktails and sunset on board a cruise vessel plying the Manila Bay. Manila Bay sunsets are legendary, and a frozen margarita is perfect after a hard day’s tour.

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10 Things to do in Singapore http://thaholiday.com/10-things-to-do-in-singapore/ http://thaholiday.com/10-things-to-do-in-singapore/#comments Mon, 25 Feb 2013 17:27:07 +0000 http://thaholiday.com/?p=5519 Singapore has much to offer their tourist population. It’s got everything for everyone, whether you be looking something for the urbane and cosmopolitan, or rustic and homegrown, Singapore has it all within reach. Here are ten things you can do in Singapore. 1. Get a bird’s eye view of the city A relaxing and low-key […]

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Singapore has much to offer their tourist population. It’s got everything for everyone, whether you be looking something for the urbane and cosmopolitan, or rustic and homegrown, Singapore has it all within reach. Here are ten things you can do in Singapore.

1. Get a bird’s eye view of the city

View from Singapore Flyer (Photo by Tomoaki INABA)

A relaxing and low-key way to get a quick glimpse of the city is to get on the Singapore Flyer. With a total height of 541 feet, it’s even taller than the London Eye. You can also experience the Journey of Dreams, an interactive multi-media display about the Flyer’s history. The capsules you ride on can fit 28 people, and its clear glass walls allow you a stunning 360 view of the city, and you can even spot islands in Indonesia and Johor, Malaysia.

2. Explore the Airport

Kinetic Rain at Changi Airport (Photo by Choo Yut Shing)

For most travelers, the airport is nothing more than a mere blip on the radar. Singapore’s Changi Airport makes you want to spend hours there. It has been consistently named the “World’s Best Airport” because of its innovative designs, superior amenities and world class service that improve over time. Millions of passengers go through its three terminals each day, and a fourth one is being renovated for better service. The Changi Airport has areas that are open to non-passengers, including shops and food outlets, garden spaces and beautiful art installations. Flight delays will never be a good experience, but at least in the Changi Airport, it isn’t so boring.

3. Night Safari

Fire Dance Show in Night Safari (Photo by Marc van der Chijs)

The Night Safari is the first of its kind in the world, where nocturnal animals are on display in the most natural way possible. No cages, bars or boxes hinder their movement, but instead are kept in their respective area by moats, trees and other unobtrusive barriers. Lighting mimics moonlight, allowing visitors to see the animals but not disturb their habits. You can explore the Night Safari by foot by taking one of the several trails available. The tram safari is a guided tour around the 99 acre zoo that represent the world’s seven geographical zones. Be sure to catch the Creatures of the Night, an interactive and informative show starring many of the zoo’s animals. The Night Safari is also promoting the conservation and care of these animals, particularly those that are on the endangered list.

4. Shop

Paragon Shopping Center at Orchard Road (Photo by Choo Yut Shing)

Mention Singapore and most tourists will think of “shopping”, and it’s true. Singapore is home to many shopping centers that have stores, boutiques and shops of various brands that range from local names to international brands. Unique products, handicrafts, clothes and the like can be found in places like Chinatown, Kampong Glam and Little India, but for designer goods check out Orchard Road. I went a little crazy at the IKEA and the outlet shops along Alexander Road, and I fairly drooled at the selection of books at Kinokuniya at Takashimaya. Imagine how I was able to take them home. For those who want to shop electronics, Funan Digital Life mall is for you.

5. Learn

ArtScience Museum (Photo by Choo Yut Shing)

Despite being a small country, Singapore has a rich cultural history that you can learn about by visiting its museums. Take a tour of the country’s oldest museum which is the National Museum of Singapore. Learn about modern art and science at the Marina Bay’s ArtScience museum and if you love letter-writing and stamps, the Singapore Philately Museum is for you. On a side note, most of the museums in Singapore are housed in fabulous buildings that are not only historical, but also works of art in themselves. Additional knowledge and history can be gleaned from other architectural beauties like the Raffles Hotel and the once Catholic convent compound along Victoria Street, CHIJMES.

5. Eat!

Maxwell Food Hawker Center (Photo by Karl Baron)

Maxwell Food Hawker Center (Photo by JesusAbizanda)

When it comes to eating in Singapore, you will wish that you have a bottomless stomach. Begin by checking out hawker centers that are scattered all over the city, the most popular ones being at the Old Airport Road, Chinatown and Little India. There are also smaller hawker centers scattered all over the city, perhaps even one at the corner of your hostel. Hawker stalls offer affordable and delicious meals, and the choices are endless. You can choose from traditional Chinese cuisine, flavorful Indian dishes and memorable Malay entrées. Even along the streets you will find something to munch on. Check out the dollar ice cream stands. Blocks of variously flavored ice cream cut into thick slabs and placed in between two slices of bread. I’m pretty traditional and stuck to the flavors that sounded familiar, but the adventurous can try the durian flavored ones. Definitely acquired taste, in my opinion.

6. Join the Festivities

The decorations for the Deepavali (Festival of Lights) in Little India. (Photo by Choo Yut Shing)

Because of Singapore’s diverse roots, the country celebrates festivals that are mostly cultural and religion based. If your trip coincides with a holiday, don’t be shy in joining in. Among the more popular holidays in Singapore is the Chinese New Year, which is celebrated not just by the Chinese community, but the whole country. Then there is the Hindu holiday of Thaipusam, and the Muslim holidays of Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Hajj, among others. These various holidays give you a look into the individual cultures that form Singapore. It’s not just fun and celebration, it’s also educational and somehow, spiritual.

7. Take a walking tour

Chinatown Shophouses (Photo by alantankenghoe)

Singapore has several walking tour services that you can try out. These tours mostly take you to places that are off the map, and often places that the average tourist won’t even think of going to. The Original Singapore Tour is the most popular, and it explores different historical places each day. Another tour is the Changi Museum War Trails, where trained specialist guides walk you through Singapore’s history during World War II. While pre-registrations are not needed for the former, guests are encouraged to do so with the latter. Group tours and customized tours are also available.

An interesting note for travelers who are in Singapore for a layover of at least five hours. The Changi Airport offers a free, two-hour tour around the city. You can take the Heritage Tour that will allow you to see the best places in Singapore, while the City Lights tour are for those who have a layover in the evenings. It’s a great introduction to the city and will give you an idea where to go when you’ve got a longer stay in Singapore.

8. Identify the Language

Singapore Women (Photo by Simon Jones)

This may seem like a rather silly suggestion, but it’s a fun one to do while you are sitting at a cafe or having some down time. Because of Singapore’s diverse culture and steady economy, it has become the choice to move to in Southeast Asia for many expatriates of other countries. Therefore it is not unusual for you to hear not just the language of the locals, but also other languages of other people. I heard English, Chinese, Tamil, German, Japanese, Filipino and Malay while I was at the train heading to Chinatown. While I didn’t understand what they were saying, it was very interesting to know that you are truly in a city of melding cultures.

9. Explore the Singapore Botanic Garden

Eco Lake at the Singapore Botanic Garden (Photo by Choo Yut Shing)

Singapore’s Botanic Garden is unique from all other similar gardens because not only does it stay open all year round, it is the only botanical garden in the world with a tropical rainforest inside it. It’s about six hectares, and is much older than the garden, which you can say was probably built around it. The Singapore Botanic Garden is a lovely oasis of calm from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the biggest attractions here is the National Orchid Garden, which has a collection of over 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids. The garden is impressive in its size and the variety of flora that thrives in it and is well worth the visit.

10. Get lost

Get lost? (Photo by Erwin Soo)

The people I went with during my first Singapore trip were pretty limited to where they wanted to go (shopping mostly). I had other ideas, so I one day I left them so I could explore on my own. Armed with my map and my list, I was ready… but I got lost. Was I scared? Yes, but it was also the best thing to happen to me. It allowed me to see spots that I would normally had missed if I followed tour guides and recommendations from fellow tourists. Getting lost also allowed me to somehow see the city from a local’s point of view. And when I needed to get back, all I had to do was ask directions for the nearest train station. This adventure combines the suggestions on this list, and then some.

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Top 10 Things to do in Kuala Lumpur http://thaholiday.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-kuala-lumpur/ http://thaholiday.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-kuala-lumpur/#comments Mon, 17 Dec 2012 13:14:40 +0000 http://thaholiday.com/?p=3667 Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital city of Malaysia, is a vibrant place where there is an activity to suit almost every traveler’s preferences. The influences from different religions and cultures make KL a spectacular melting pot of a city, which presents wonderful surprises in almost every corner that you get to explore. Regardless of the […]

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Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital city of Malaysia, is a vibrant place where there is an activity to suit almost every traveler’s preferences. The influences from different religions and cultures make KL a spectacular melting pot of a city, which presents wonderful surprises in almost every corner that you get to explore. Regardless of the length of your stay in Kuala Lumpur, make sure that you do most (if not all!) of the things/activities listed below – so that you can truly say that you have fully experienced what KL is all about.

1. Go on an Asian food exploration

Hawker food stalls in Jalan Alor

Kuala Lumpur offers some of the best in different Asian cuisines, such as Malay, Chinese, and Indian food. Tickle your taste buds with an explosion of flavors from restaurants and food courts in shopping malls – where you can sample the best of Asian cuisine at reasonable prices. For a more authentic Asian dining experience, you can try out the hawker food stalls along Jalan Alor, considered as the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s local cuisine.

2. Go (very high) up the Petronas Towers

Petronas Towers also known as the Petronas Twin Towers or KLCC

Go to the Petronas Towers’ Skybridge, and get to see the rest of the city from 170 meters above the ground. Make sure that you to the Petronas Towers very early in the morning, as there are limited tickets available for daily visitors.

3. Go even higher on the KL Tower

KL Tower & KLCC

The observation deck of the KL Tower (Menara KL) puts you 421 meters above the ground, and you will see not only the rest of the Kuala Lumpur cityscape, but also the Petronas Towers from a breathtaking vantage point as well.

4. Shopping sprees

Jalan Petaling, Petaling Street

Shopping is one of the things you can do to your heart’s content in KL, especially because there are a lot of places to choose from depending on your preference, and your budget. High-end, designer brands can be seen in the city’s biggest shopping malls like Suria KLCC; Chinatown’s Jalan Petaling, on the other hand, is a must-visit for bargain-hunters for inexpensive clothes, bags, shoes, and other items.

5. Explore Chinatown and the Central Market

View of the inside of Central Market

Chinatown is best explored by walking around, so you can see the old-fashioned coffee and tea houses, the street food stalls, the gold shops, Chinese herbal medicines/remedies shops, and a wide array of other interesting merchandise and people. After the Chinatown exploration, you can then check the Central Market for interesting trinkets and handicrafts that you can take home as souvenirs of your Malaysian adventure.

Check out the best hotel offers in KL.

6. Visit the museums and Malaysia’s rich heritage

National Museum, Kuala Lumpur

The museums in Kuala Lumpur will offer you a peek into the rich Malay cultural heritage. The National Museum features dioramas and exhibits featuring Chinese and Malay culture, vintage automobiles, and more. The National Art Gallery has more than 2,500 art pieces by Malaysian and international artists, and workshops are available as well on certain dates.

7. Get to know the beauty of pewter


This photo of Royal Selangor Pewter Factory and Visitor Centre is courtesy of TripAdvisor
 A visit to the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre can be awe-inspiring, as you get to see the beauty of the pewter pieces (and how they are made). Royal Selangor is the world’s largest pewter maker; the visitor’s centre offers guided tours and workshops to those who are interested. You can indulge in some retail therapy as well by purchasing some of the finest pieces of pewter gifts and tableware.

8. Go on a historic walking tour

National Mosque

A walking tour of the city’s historic landmarks is a must if you wish to get a deeper feel of Kuala Lumpur’s rich heritage and interesting architecture. The Moorish-inspired Old Railway station is an ideal starting point, after which you can marvel at the National Mosque and its electric blue dome, and on to the Independence Square (Merdeka Square). This historic walking tour can be concluded at the birthplace of KL, where the Klang and Gombak rivers meet.

9. Visit the KL Bird Park

KL Bird Park

The KL Bird Park, world’s largest free-flight walk-in aviary, is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. Located in the scenic Lake Gardens, the bird park has a lush valley terrain spanning 20.9 acres just waiting to be explored by nature lovers. As you explore the park’s attractions, don’t be surprised if you feel supremely relaxed at the same time as you appreciate the beauty that only nature can offer.

10. Relax in a coffee shop and people-watch

Yut Kee Kopitiam (coffee shop) – it is more than 82 years old in KL

Kuala Lumpur has numerous coffee shops where you can sit down and recharge your energy after all that exploring and walking around. As you sip your coffee or tea, you can also indulge in observing the people who pass by (and the people around your perch); you might be surprised that you can learn a lot about Malaysian culture by being a silent observer!

Photos by migikata, thomaswanhoff, rifqy, Auswandern, Khalzuri, roaming-the-planet, Pon Pon Tin(hohiyan), Uspn and Tianyake

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