Travelling can be an expensive affair, as I have recently discovered during my nine-day vacation in the Netherlands, especially coming from Malaysia where our currency, Malaysian Ringgit, is more than four times weaker than the Euro. Flying from Asia to Europe, I have already splurged on air tickets alone.

Coupled with the summer season, it was not easy on the pocket. Even hibernating in the hotel costs money. Travelling as a family will be even costlier, and so, a little savings here and there certainly help to stretch the Euro.

Therefore, let me share with you a few money-saving tips that I discovered during my own recent trip to Holland.

1) Drink tap water
Tap water, I am happy to say, is absolutely safe to drink in the Netherlands. It was good news to me and saved me a ton of money on bottled water!

Though this may not be applicable to the whole of Europe, it works in Holland, although you should always get your drinking water from the cold tap only.

2) Buy tickets online
Most tourist attractions come with an admission fee, unfortunately. However, if you are able to purchase your tickets online or make a pre-event purchase, you usually get to enjoy a discount on the ticket.

Do take note that sometimes, you are required to print out your ticket, and while travelling, you may not have access to a printer. Obviously, your hotel is happy to do this for you, but at a small fee. Is this savings worth the fee, then? Maybe, or maybe not.

3) Mini Cards
When I was in Holland, I found these Mini Cards (minicards.com) really useful. Cards give out a range of discounts and freebies to popular tourist attractions around the country, from a reduction of up to €4,50 per ticket to 25% discount and free postcards, pastries and other gifts.

Mini Cards for maximum discounts

Granted, even with Mini Cards at hand, tickets may not be as cheap as those purchased online. However, when these cards are easily and readily available at most hotels, they beat the hassle of having to print out your eticket(s).

4) 3-day OV-Chipkaart
A disposable 3-day OV-Chipkaart at €14,20 allows the holder to use the RET Metro (subway), tram and bus for an unlimited number of times throughout three consecutive days beginning on the day it is activated. Remember to check-in and check-out at the terminal for each trip.

Purchasing this card at the service counter incurs an additional transaction fee of €0,50 per card, which could be saved if purchased from the automated machine. You may require the assistance of an RET staff.

If you are planning a long stay in Holland, it’s definitely worth getting this 3-day card, especially if you are new to the country and thus, allowing for making errors in your travel plans.

1-day cards are also available at about €7,- per card (not worth).

5) HTM Dagkaarten
If you are travelling around The Hague on the tram, this 1-day HTM Dagkaarten for €7.50 is what you need. It allows for unlimited travel for one day from first activation until the end of service on all HTM lines and RandstadRail 3 and 4.

Similar to the OV-Chipkaart above, remember to check-in and check-out for every ride.

60-minute tickets are also available at €3,50 each (not worth).

If you have any other tips on how to lower your travel expenses, particularly in the Netherlands, do share via comments.

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KLIA2

Upon landing at Kuala Lumpur International Airport returning from my Dutch vacation, I decided to hop over to KLIA2 to check it out, having read so much about it in the papers. The fare via KLIA Transit from KLIA is only RM2 for 2 minutes’ ride (less than 2km).

flight information board

busy with travellers

Travellers using KLIA Ekspres from KL Sentral to KLIA or KLIA2 pay the same adult fare of RM35 one way, or RM70 return. Child fares are RM15 and RM30 respectively.

counters for check-in and baggage drop

to the Departure and Arrival Halls - with estimated walking time

In operation since early May, 2014, KLIA2 has replaced the Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT), catering to three times as many passengers annually. Known as Malaysia’s Next Generation Hub, this international airport hub allows for seamless connectivity for both low-cost and full-service carriers in domestic and international sectors.

Jaya Grocer supermarket

some of the retail outlets

Built at a cost of more than RM4 billion, during my visit, only about 50% of retail space was occupied, although the terminal can accommodate up to 225 retail outlets.

overlooking the tarmac

open-air dining

Many of my friends have reported that it’s a long walk to the Departure Hall compared to LCCT. Surely it is but compared to KLIA, it isn’t so. At least, at KLIA2, there’s no need for an Aerotrain.

layout of the terminal

one of the many food and beverage outlets

There are two hotels within KLIA2 grounds. One is CAPSULE by Container Hotel and the other, just opposite the bus pick-up point, is Tune Hotel. These are most convenient for travellers with long layovers.

Capsule Hotel

ticket counters for express buses and car rentals

Returning to Ipoh from KLIA2, I opted to take the direct airport shuttle, where tickets are sold from general bus counters. I had two options: Yoyo and Star Shuttle. I was not given the bus schedules, but was told the first available buses of the two companies when asked. One-way fare from KLIA2 (and KLIA) to Ipoh is RM42 for Star Shuttle and RM45 for Yoyo.

bus pick-up point

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2 Comments

• At June 20, 2014, thomas wrote:

  so near yet so far,

  the open air dining looks interesting

• At June 20, 2014, Emily wrote:

  Thomas, that's supposed to be smoking areas, but most travellers go there for the view, whether they are smokers or not.

Ernest Zacharevic’s new pieces of wall art in Ipoh’s Old Town have been all the rage recently. Commissioned by Oldtown White Coffee for its “Art of Oldtown Project”, the Lithuanian-born artist has brought his unique brand of wall art that incorporates local culture, enlivening that part of Ipoh. Locals and tourists alike are having a whale of a time taking photos with these artworks.

uncle drinking kopi

1) Uncle drinking coffee (Jalan Bandar)
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.876′ E101° 04.595′

paper plane

2) Paper plane (Jalan Tun Sambanthan)
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.875′ E101° 04.609′

five packets of kopi-O

3) Five packets of kopi-O (Jalan Tun Sambanthan)
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.847′ E101° 04.714′

hummingbird

hummingbird

4) Hummingbird (Jalan Panglima)
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.798′ E101° 04.714′

evolution

5) Evolution (Jalan Bijeh Timah)
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.779′ E101° 04.757′

trishaw garbage collector

6) Trishaw garbage collector (Concubine Lane 3)
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.718′ E101° 04.747′

a refreshed girl and sparrows

7) Girl and sparrows (Jalan Bandar Timah)
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.835 E101° 04.696′

the original kopi-O

8) Original kopi-o (Jalan Bandar Timah) not in map
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.781′ E 101° 4.667′

map by Oldtown White Coffee

I hope that this post helps you in locating these wall art pieces, which are actually within walking distance from one another but not easy to spot if one is unfamiliar with the area.

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2 Comments

• At July 2, 2014, thomas wrote:

  nice sharing especially the coordinates.

• At July 3, 2014, Emily wrote:

  If you have the chance, you should check out these street art yourself, Thomas. Not sure how long they can be preserved!

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Street art has taken Ipoh by storm, once again, with the recent launch of Oldtown White Coffee’s “Art of Oldtown Project” by Ernest Zacharevic.

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Today, I am sharing an image intensified post with you with scant information on where in Ipoh these wall art pieces are found.

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The clue is that most of them are near to this location.

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Also, these were not by Ernest Zacharevic, but by local Ipoh artists. Not bad, eh?

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dinner at Pen Mutiara, Penang

Serving authentic traditional Malay cuisine, Pen Mutiara Restaurant is located at the Batu Maung LKIM Jetty, near the new second link to Penang Island.

curry fish head

spicy deep-fried fish

It is owned by the Penang Fishermen’s Association and the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM).

deep-fried squid

chilli prawns

Opened for business since Jan 1, 2006, the signature dish of Pen Mutiara is its curry fish head, served in a clay pot.

egg

pickles

Other traditional Malay cuisine served, which we ordered for dinner, were spicy deep-fried fish and deep-fried squid. Check out my photos of our mouth-watering meal.

stir-fried vegetables

Malay-style salad

By the way, the restaurant’s architecture reminded me of Ipoh’s Tandoor Grill. Pen Mutiara Restaurant is also able to cope with large dinner functions.

restaurant ambience

Pen Mutiara Restaurant

Pen Mutiara Restaurant (Restoran Pen Mutiara)
Add: Wisma Nelayan, Pelabuhan LKIM Batu Maung, 11960 Bayan Lepas, Penang.
Tel: +604-6264615
Fax: +604-6261134
Web: www.penmutiara.com

Opening hours: 11am – 10.30pm daily

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1 Comments

• At September 1, 2014, Nadzrul Kamal wrote:

  Yumm <3

Mary (L) promoting YOU Wings and their selfie contest

The concourse area of Ipoh Parade was teeming with potential holiday-makers trying to catch an unbeatable travel deal at the current MATTA Fair Perak, on the first day of the fair itself.

some exhibitors

This travel fair, held concurrently nationwide, is more vibrant than I remember it to be over the past few years. It looks like many people are not afraid to fly.

Keris Travel & Tour

Those looking for cheap travel packages are really in for a good time, what with rival MITM Travel Fair organising their three-day fair over the same weekend, at Dewan Leong Wan Chin. Unfortunately, I am not able to catch the action there due to time constraints.

Sri Maju

While many of the exhibitors are familiar names, I am happy to spot a few new developments during my visit on Friday. For one, Firefly will start to operate Ipoh – Johor Bahru flights four times a week beginning September 15. I made a check on Firefly website for the fare. The cheapest I could get is RM119 one way, excluding taxes.

Deluxe Tours

New player YOU Wings on the other hand, will be operating Ipoh – Medan flights from November onwards. Further information on this will be announced in due time. Meanwhile. the company is running a selfie contest. Take a selfie with an Ipoh icon, post the photo on Facebook and tag #YOUWings to stand a chance to win entrance tickets to Sunway Lost World of Tambun, or even walk away with the grand prize of return air tickets for two to Medan! For terms and conditions, click HERE.

Ipoh Overland Tours & Travel

Visitors to MATTA Fair Perak do not only have the opportunity to buy travel packages at low prizes. Impiana Hotel Ipoh is promoting Weekend Hi-Tea at The Coffee House at RM20 nett per person, a discount from the usual price of RM32 nett. Voucher is valid till the end of the year. For more information, visit the Impiana Hotel Ipoh booth or just pick up your phone and dial 05-255 5555.

promoting China tours

Event: MATTA Fair Perak 2014
Venue: Ipoh Parade, Ipoh
Date: 5th – 7th Sept, 2014
Time: 10am – 10pm

only a section of MATTA Fair Perak at Ipoh Parade

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1. M Boutique Hotel

M Boutique Hotel, managed by Ariva, may look compact on the outside, but it actually offers 93 rooms, comparable to a decent-sized hotel, say, Symphony Suites Hotel.

2. lobby

3. lobby area

With rooms spread over three levels of the building, M Boutique Hotel, at first glance, comes with the “wow factor”. It is said that with 93 rooms, comes 93 different interior designs.

4. lobby area

5. lounge on the ground floor

The novelty, however, soon wears off when one realises that the decorative items are the same, except that they have been arranged differently.

6. reading lounge

7. internet station

Even it has been admitted that the housekeeping staff do not know how a room is actually set up, if a cheeky guest had his room rearranged.

8. gymnasium

9. free use of washing machine and dryer

Still, each floor spots its own theme, from Adventure to Numbers and Letters, with cosy corners around the hotel great for photo-taking.

10. first floor lift lobby

11. corridor

In fact, this smoke-free M Boutique Hotel is currently one of the top venues in Ipoh for pre-wedding photography. It’s not surprising, seeing how the hotel is decorated.

12. rest area

13. Standard Queen

There are five room categories; Superior, Deluxe, Premier, Family and Suite. The hotel has one disabled-friendly room.

14. Standard Queen

15. second floor lift lobby

Despite the size of the hotel, there is a meeting room that can accommodate up to 70 pax in a theatre setting.

16. Majestic

17. second floor

Opened for business on October 31st, 2013, with a grand launching ceremony on January 19th, 2014, M Boutique Hotel is part of a row of shop lots, with two eateries on its left and right, namely Signature Old Town White Coffee and Myth Eatery & Bar.

18. second floor

19. Superior Single

In-room facilities include complimentary WiFi, LCD TV with satellite channels, digital safe, mini bar, radio alarm with iPod/iPhone dock (too bad I left my iPod at home!), mini bar, coffee and tea making facilities, and rain shower.

20. Superior Single

21. Superior Single

Other facilities around the hotel are security key card access, elevator, free self-service washing machine, dryer and iron, internet station and reading lounge.

22. in-room digital safe

23. Superior Single

Guests could also enjoy the lifestyle shop (M Shop by M Boutique) where items are said to be custom-made. Oh, and I almost forgot the private car park.

24. Superior Single

25. Premier Twin

With the theme “Strangers as Friends – come as strangers, leave as friends”, staff here are young, friendly and helpful too. I really had a wonderful time during my recent stay here.

26. Premier Twin

TURN NEXT PAGE FOR PHOTOS OF THE THIRD FLOOR…

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1. baby Mia Zara Ariana walking back and forth on the daun gelenggang (Cassia Senna)

Steep in tradition and superstition, the Rawa (Rao) community performs a ritual called “berjojak” (berjejak tanah in standard Bahasa Malaysia) for babies before they are allowed to step on the ground.

2. the items to be used are neatly arranged in a try

This age-old ceremony dates back to the time of the royals in Rawa, West Sumatra, Indonesia where story has it that in a child of a princess was kidnapped by the people of Pagar Ruyung and forced to ascend the throne of their deceased Sultan.

3. dotting the baby’s joints with three items: cooling rice powder (bedak sejuk), yellow clay and black clay

The princess, angered, placed a curse on the decedents of the royals. To break this curse, staunch believers put their babies through this ritual before they are allowed to step foot on the ground. It is believed that if the curse wasn’t broken, ill-fate would befall the family.

4. baby is shielded with an umbrella and carried to the bathing spot

If a family has a string of children, every one of them has to go through the same ritual, and the subsequent children following the first child have to have their ceremonies performed when they were not older then when the first child had his/hers.

5. bathing the baby with specially prepared water

Conducted by an experienced shaman of the community, he/she would continuously chant mantras, whilst the baby, under a yellow strip of cloth of signify the sky, has cooling rice powder (bedak sejuk) applied onto her joints, and then made to walk to and fro the ground that has been laid with a particular type of leaf, daun gelenggang (Cassia Senna).

6. drying the baby

This is repeated with yellow clay applied on the baby’s joints. After walking on the leaves, black clay is applied instead, and then she has to take a final walk on the leaves before being carried to have a symbolic bath, shielded by an umbrella under the yellow “sky”.

7. carrying the back into the house, shielded by an umbrella, under the yellow sky

Fire crackers are let off at three different junctures of this ritual, a way to inform villagers near and far that the baby has already undergone the ceremony, and was now “of age”.

8. baby has popcorn and rice thrown over her as she enters the house

After her bath, and with rice and popcorn thrown over her head before entering her house, the baby is dressed in her resplendent yellow-coloured frock, and fed with a meal especially prepared for the event, consisting of a plate of yellow glutinous rice and half a chicken cooked with turmeric. The other half of the chicken dish was presented to the family of the shaman.

9. baby gets dressed

Yellow was the colour of the day, the colour of royals, as they were believed to be descendants of the Rawa royal family.

10. glutinous rice and chicken cooked with turmeric for the yellow colour to be fed to the baby

Still, even after undergoing the ceremony, the baby is still not allowed to walk on the ground until three more days have passed.

11. baby is symbolically fed with the specially prepared yellow-coloured food

Those interested in the ethnic culture and tradition of the Rawa people and would like to witness first hand this cultural presentation of Adat Berjojak (sans the mantra chanting) may do so at Homestay Gopeng, which has the largest Rawa community in Malaysia. 99% of the Malays in Gopeng are said to be Rawas.

This homestay is well-known for its adventurous and outdoor programmes, such as white water rafting, caving and water abseiling.

For further information on Homestay Gopeng and/or Adat Berjojak Melayu Rawa, contact:

Pn. Noradidah Hj. Mokhtar
(Chairperson Homestay Perak / EXCO Homestay Malaysia)
Mobile: +6012-5060700
Email: didah65@yahoo.com.my

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After witnessing a cultural presentation of Adat Berjojak (berjejak tanah in standard Bahasa Malaysia) for babies before they are allowed to step on the ground., a ritual performed by the Rawa (Rao) community, we were ushered to see how kelemai is cooked.

En. Johari shows the mixture of ingredients ready to be cooked

Kelemai is a traditional Rawa food that is similar to lemang, except that kelemai is cooked using different ingredients. Ingredients used in kelemai are rough-ground glutinous rice, liquid brown sugar, and residue of cooking coconut oil.

the three ingredients of rough-ground glutinous rice, liquid brown sugar (boiled) and residue from cooking coconut oil, in their original form and after being prepared for cooking

These ingredients are mixed together and marinated for three days before they are stuffed into specially prepared bamboo (aur). The shaved bamboos, 3/4 filled, are then placed over hot coals for eight hours, during which the bamboos have to be constantly turn over the heat to ensure the contents inside are thoroughly cooked.

En. Johari explains the correct way to prepare the bamboo

Superstitions to be observed are pretty obvious, such as don’t walk over the bamboo, or use your foot to kick the coals.

En. Johari explaining the superstitions observed when kelemai is cooked

The amazing thing about kelemai is that it could be kept for a year or longer. Wow, isn’t that a long, expiry date, without the help of preservatives?

asam daging (beef)

In this post, I have included other traditional dishes of the Rawa community, who make up 99% of the Malays in Gopeng.

ayam masak lemak

Those interested in the ethnic culture and tradition of the Rawa community may do so at Homestay Gopeng. This homestay is well-known for its adventurous and outdoor programmes, such as white water rafting, caving and water abseiling.

ikan bilis tempoyak

For further information, contact:

Pn. Noradidah Hj. Mokhtar
(Chairperson Homestay Perak / EXCO Homestay Malaysia)
Mobile: +6012-5060700
Email: didah65@yahoo.com.my

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1. the dragon arch leading to Sam Wong Kong temple

Sam Wong Kong in Batu Gajah, about 20km or 40 minutes’ drive from Ipoh, is the only Nine Emperor Gods temple in the town.

2. Heaven altar

3. Legendary Third Prince

Surprisingly, many of the Taoist devotees here are from the south – Johor and Singapore. Of course, locals throng the temple as well for nine days to pay homage to the Nine Emperor Gods and to give thanks for wishes granted throughout the year.

4. entrance to Sam Wong Kong temple

5. devotees praying at the main altar, with Goddess Dou Mu in the centre

Sam Wong Kong is actually very famous for its red tortoise-shaped buns , which are offered in pairs to the Nine Emperor Gods and Goddess Dou Mu to seek good health and longevity. The tortoise is known for its long life, while red is an auspicious colour.

6. offerings to Taoist deities at the main altar

7. the Legendary Five Directional Camps Generals / Marshals

Like many Taoist temples, Sam Wong Kong serves complimentary vegetarian meals three times a day during the Nine Emperor Gods festival. It is a norm for the devotees to pack home the food for their families.

8. entrance to the Nine Emperor Gods inner chamber

9. Pak Yeh

The temple will also be conducting a religious procession around Batu Gajah town later today from 7pm onwards. It is expected to take an hour.

10. Datuk Kong

11. spiritual horse

Additionally, on the final day of the festival (Oct 2), there will be a fire-walking ceremony in the evening. These rituals are expected to pull in a large crowd of spectators, whether they are Taoists or not.

12. Nine Emperor Gods powerful cloth talisman issued by Sam Wong Kong for betterment

13. devotees queue up to purchase a joss package that includes a pair of tortoise dumplings to offer to the deities

Although Sam Wong Kong has no specific address, it is not difficult to locate as it is just off 0.5Km Jalan Tanjung Tualang main road from Batu Gajah. With the new dragon arch that leads towards the temple, it is even easier to spot.

14. devotees queuing up to pack home complimentary vegetarian meals

15. the dragon arch

Sam Wong Kong (Taoist temple)
Add: 0.5Km off Jalan Tanjung Tualang from Batu Gajah, Perak.
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 28.037′ E101° 02.542′

*for non-Muslims only

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The much-anticipated Ipoh-Medan-Ipoh direct flight was finally announced following a gala dinner to welcome travel agents and associations from Medan, North Sumatra.

1. thumbs up for the commencement of direct flights between Ipoh and Medan four times weekly

The maiden flight will commence on November 25, and there will be four flights weekly on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

With the promotional fare of RM99 one-way, it will be most attractive and affordable, positioning itself well among its competitors.

2. at the press conference to address questions from the media

Making Ipoh a lot more accessible now with direct flights between these two cities is a step forward for Medan residents to explore specialist medical facilities offered by Ipoh hospitals.

This is, obviously, a good chance for Ipoh’s medical tourism to tap the new Medan market, which until now, has only looked at Kuala Lumpur and Penang in Malaysia.

3. Y.B. Dato’ Nolee Ashilin bt. Mohd Radzi – Perak EXCO Tourism, Health & Culture, receives an appreciation gift from Pak Elisa Marbun - Chairman of Tourism & Culture North Sumatra (R) and En. Solahuddin Nasution - Chairman of ASITA (Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies) (L)

Said Chairman of YOU Wings, Dato’ Hakim Hamidi, “We are targeting full flights for our planes as Medan is our hub, as well as the gateway to the rest of Indonesia.”

Serving this route will be Boeing 737-400 air planes with a capacity of 168 passengers.

4. a gift from Y.B. Dato’ Nolee Ashilin bt. Mohd Radzi – Perak EXCO Tourism, Health & Culture to her counterpart Pak Elisa Marbun - Chairman of Tourism & Culture North Sumatra as CEO and Chairman of YOU Wings Daniel Lee (L) and Dato' Hakim Hamidi respectively look on

Announced at the same time are direct Kuala Terengganu-Medan flights from November 24 onwards, three times weekly on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, also proudly operated by YOU Wings for Sriwijaya Air.

This is exciting news to the East Coast city as it will be the very first direct flight out to Indonesia from Terengganu.

Following the development of these two new flight routes, Sriwijaya Air and YOU Wings are increasing their Penang-Medan air service to twice daily, from its current one flight a day.

This is certainly good news for the aviation and tourism industries for Ipoh as well as Kuala Terengganu.

Industry players in Malaysia and Indonesia are already excitedly forging smart partnerships in anticipation of catering to tourists to and from Medan, as a run up to the commencement of these flights at the end of November.

Event: Announcement of Ipoh-Medan Direct Flights
Venue: Casuarina@Meru, Ipoh
Date: 8th Oct, 2014
Time: 9pm

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1. MH Sentral Sungai Siput

A part of the Man Hoe Hotel Group, with a growing brand name in the hospitality industry, this hotel named MH Sentral Sungai Siput, located in the heart of Sungai Siput (U), offers 118 rooms, ideal for guests who would rather stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

2. reception

3. lounge

Opened since December 2012, this business class hotel with six floors, and has a ballroom, function halls, dining outlets and a convenience stall, is built amidst 16 units of 2 & 3 storeys of commercial shops.

4. Warisan Coffee House

5. Saujana Ballroom

As the latest landmark in downtown Sungai Siput, anyone who enters the town from Ipoh City, will certainly not miss this imposing building, as it is strategically located by the main road of Jalan Kuala Kangsar, just five minutes from town.

6. ballroom

7. foyer

Ipoh City is about 30 minutes’ drive away but the distance to the nearest attraction, Ladang Infoternak Sungai Siput, is just 5km.

8. Jasmine function room

9. Deluxe Twin

Facilities available at the hotel include housekeeping service, laundry and dry cleaning service, coffee/tea making facilities, TV with in-house channels, room service, 24-hour CCTV surveillance and complimentary WiFi connectivity.

10. Deluxe Twin

11. Deluxe Twin

There are four room categories, including two units of VIP suites on the top floor of the building. An in-room safe deposit box is provided for VIP Suites.

12. Family Suite

13. Family Suite

Room type – Rack Rates / Bar Rate / Promo Rate (Weekdays) / Weekends

Deluxe Suite – RM280++ / RM220 nett / RM160 nett / RM198 nett
Executive Suite – RM420++ / RM380 nett / RM280 nett / RM350 nett
Family Suite – RM600++ / RM480 nett / RM320 nett / RM380 nett
VIP Suite – RM800++ / RM650 nett / RM400 nett / RM550 nett

14. Executive Suite

15. Executive Suite

Ipoh-based property developer Kinta Saujana Group of Companies hospitality arm, Man Hoe Hotel Group, also has two hotels in Ipoh, MH Hotel Ipoh and MH Studio Hotel, as well as one in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, named MH Hotel & Residences Kuala Lumpur (MHKL).

16. VIP Suite

17. VIP Suite

MH Sentral Sungai Siput (Hotel)
Add: Lot 3543, Sentral MH, 31100, Sungai Siput (U), Perak.
Tel: +605-5971000
Fax: +605-5971001
Web: www.mhhotels.com.my

18. MH Sentral Sungai Siput in the wee hours of the morning

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1. arriving at Casuarina@Meru, Medan delegates are served Ipoh’s famous white coffee by the hotel’s Assistant Front Office Manager Brandon Ahmad

At the invitation of YOU Wings and supported by the state tourism offices in Perak and Terengganu, top travel agents and heads of travel organisations from the North Sumatran city of Medan visited Ipoh and Kuala Terengganu for a total of 5Ds/4Ns in early October.

2. at the official welcoming dinner-cum-announcement of Ipoh – Medan direct flight operated by YOU Wings for Sriwijaya Air

The fact-finding mission was a run-up to the maiden direct flights of Kuala Terengganu-Medan and Ipoh-Medan on 24th and 25th November respectively, operated by YOU Wings for Sriwijaya Air.

3. night shopping at Gerbang Malam

The objective of the familiarisation trip was to provide first-hand experience to these major players of the tourism industry from Medan, Indonesia, to facilitate them in drawing up travel packages to Ipoh and Kuala Terengganu for their clients back home.

4. official photos of the delegation (clockwise from top left) to Casuarina@ Meru, to KPJ Ipoh Specialist Hospital, at the conclusion of a business matching session and at Kek Lok Tong

At the official welcoming dinner in Ipoh hosted by Perak state, a special announcement was made on the inaugural flight of Ipoh-Medan that will commence this November 25.

Served by a Boeing 737-400 aircraft with a capacity of 168 passengers, there will be four flights weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The promotional fare is RM99 one way all-in. Tickets are already on sale at the website of Sriwijaya Air at www.sriwijayaair.co.id

5. photo shoot in front of the Ipoh Railway Station and City Hall

Ipoh is beginning to explore medical tourism and will try to divert the attention of Medan holiday-makers from hospitals and specialist centres in Kuala Lumpur and Penang with attractively priced health and wellness packages.

6. chilling out at the Lost World of Tambun

To this end, these Medan delegates were given the opportunity to see for themselves top-of-the-line medical facilities offered by three major hospitals in the city, namely Pantai Hospital Ipoh, KPJ Ipoh Specialist Hospital and Hospital Fatimah.

7. arriving at Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Terengganu

Spending just two short days in Ipoh, the Medan delegates were taken to Gerbang Malam for a night shopping tour and to the Lost World of Tambun for rest and recreation, after a business matching session where they had the chance to meet up with representatives from local hotels, hospitals and travel agencies for possible future collaboration.

8. host hotel, Primula Beach Resort at Kuala Terengganu

Both Ipoh and Kuala Terengganu, located on the opposite coasts of Peninsular Malaysia, offer different experiences to visitors, and can cater to the various markets of Medan tourists.

9. visiting Terengganu State Museum

So, it was no wonder that these Medan tour agents gave the thumbs up for Ipoh as well as Kuala Terengganu.

10. visiting Islamic Civilisation Park in Kuala Terengganu

While Ipoh is a vibrant and modern city, Kuala Terengganu is more laid-back. Despite having to get out of bed at the ungodly hour of 4am for their flight to the East Coast state, many delegates were enthusiastic about their first trip to Kuala Terengganu, famous around the world for its pristine beaches.

11. mini travel mart at the Islamic Civilisation Park in Kuala Terengganu

After a brief stop at the Terengganu State Museum, the largest museum in Malaysia, delegates were taken on a tour of the Islamic Civilisation Park (Taman Tamdun Islam) in Puala Wan Man.

I’d say that with more than 20 great replicas of Islamic monuments from around the world reminiscing the rise of Islam into a sophisticated global religion, TTI is the pride of the state.

12. enjoying the Taman Tamadun Islam dining cruise

Taman Tamadun Islam was also the venue of a mini travel mart, where Medan delegates were given the chance to quickly exchange business contacts with their counterparts in Kuala Terengganu, again for possible future partnerships in catering to vacationers both in Kuala Terengganu and Medan.

13. visiting Lake Kenyir and its Kelah Sanctuary

The delegation was subsequently treated to a dining cruise offered by TTI River Cruise. Known as TTI Dining Cruise, it is a new tourism product.

The river cruise takes approximately 1.5 hours, and diners have the option to select from a menu of six main courses. Catering to a minimum group of 20 pax, the price is RM49 per adult and RM45 per child.

14. lunch at Petang Island Resort

It is said that a trip to Kuala Terengganu is incomplete without visiting Lake Kenyir, and rightly so. The largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia spanning almost 210,000 hectares, it has plenty to offer nature lovers and adventurers.

15. Kenyir Elephant Village (KEV)

Although the delegation of 30-odd people spent a limited time at the Lake and had to forgo a visit to the Herb Island and Orchid Park, they managed to have some refreshing fun at the Kelah (freshwater fish) Sanctuary.

16. state welcoming dinner hosted by the Menteri Besar of Terengganu

That was followed by lunch at Petang Island Resort and then a visit to Kenyir Elephant Village (KEV) located nearby at Temelong River. The eight elephants at the Village perform to visitors daily. Admission is RM30 per adult and RM15 per child.

17. photo shoot at Tengku Tengah Zaharah floating mosque

As night fell, it was time to head back to the hotel, Primula Beach Resort, for a state-hosted official dinner, which was also attended by players of the tourism industry in both North America and Europe.

Graced by the Menteri Besar of Terengganu YAB Dato’ Haji Ahmad Razif bin Abd Rahman, who incidentally writes his own blog at ybrazif.blogspot.com, it was a formal function with guests dressed in their best.

18. a visit to Noor Arfa Craft Complex (NACC)

That being the final night spent in Kuala Terengganu, the Medan delegates also networked with fellow guests from North America and Europe. Perhaps, there could be an avenue to work together?

19. checking out Turtle Alley

Before leaving for Kuala Lumpur, and then Medan, the group made a city tour, visiting the Tengku Tengah Zaharah floating mosque, Noor Arfa Craft Complex (NACC), Turtle Alley, Kuala Terengganu Chinatown and Pasar Payang.

As you can see, most of these stops were for shopping! Terengganu batik, keropok lekor (fish crackers), longkong (fruit), you name it, they bought it!

20. Chinatown walkabout

Lunch was hosted by TH Hotel & Convention, after an obligatory hotel inspection. The hotel graciously presented a surprise birthday cake to Ibu Suci Mazira Karmen, who celebrated her 22nd birthday that day.

Zira is from the media and provided coverage on the delegation’s activities in Malaysia on Sindo Trijaya FM Radio.

21. shopping at Pasar Payang

Soon, it was time to leave for the Sultan Mahmud Airport, just 5 minutes’ drive from TH Hotel, to catch a flight to KLIA2, and henceforth home to Medan. After spending five days together, saying farewell was difficult.

22. lunch stop at TH Hotel & Convention

Cliché as it may sound, “We met as strangers, and parted as friends.” Till we meet again, in Ipoh, Kuala Terengganu, Medan, or wherever our paths take us.

23. farewell to Medan delegates at Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Terengganu

Event: Familiarisation Trip to Ipoh & Kuala Terengganu by Medan Delegates
Venue: Ipoh & Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
Date: 8th – 12th October, 2014

*Photos by Emily2U and YOU Wings

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1. Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

Translated into English as “Serene Hill”, Qing Xin Ling is Ipoh’s latest tourism attraction. This leisure and cultural village is free to visit at this time of posting, and there is no charge whatsoever, except for the chalets.

2. the first chalet to greet visitors

3. chalets with verandas that extend out to the pond

Opened in August, 2014, it has thus far attracted some 10,000 visitors, with the majority of them taking obligatory photos of themselves selling food and drinks using the props readily available at the grounds of the village.

4. colourful double-storey chalets

5. colourful single-storey chalets

The building of Qing Xin Ling began a year ago, and was ready for the public by August 2014. This village is expected to be completed by the end of this year. However, Qing Xin Ling remains a work in progress, so expect to be surprised by improvements with every visit to the village.

6. recreational facilities such as swings

7. main hall

What used to be a former iron ore mine (I was told operations ceased some time in the late 1970s) has seen much changes under the hands of contractor Jason Tang, who surprisingly, has no formal apprenticeship or experience in woodwork.

8. interior of the main hall

9. old-style food stalls and wooden structures

His creative ideas of reusing old hardwood from abandoned village houses all over Perak to build chalets and giving them a coat of bold colour have been well-received among guests and visitors. And in fact, his redesigned food and drinks carts, gazebos, carriages and other woodcraft, along with the chalets are handmade with wood that date at least a hundred years old.

10. 1950s drinks stall

11. photography prop

During my recent visit, Jason proudly showed me his main hall, his design that, similar to the chalets, didn’t require the use of a single nail. Beams are joined by bolts, nuts and screws instead. Currently, there are twelve buildings, all of which spot tropical designs. Nine of these are chalets of various sizes that can accommodate from two to twelve guests. They are all equipped with basic amenities, including air-conditioners.

12. a view from across the pond

13. landscaped with bonsai and suiseki

Although Jason also has a hand in landscaping, the grounds of the village is littered with exotic bonsai and suiseki, due to the fact that the owner of Qing Xin Ling, Mr. Cheng, is a collector of the trees and rocks.

14. at the foot of the hill

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1. Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites

Although it was only three years since Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites opened its doors for business, and about a year since Hillcity Hotel’s relaunch after a RM2 million refurbishment exercise, these two hotels, owned by Ipoh’s largest hotel group, Morubina Group of Companies, are currently being revamped for a fresher, more contemporary look.

2. Kinta Riverfront Hotel lobby

3. Grand Valley Ballroom

This extensive restoration work, which began last month, will fully complete by the end of 2014. With a reinvestment of over RM10 million, these two hotel properties will see meticulous detailing done not only in terms of hardware but also service and comfort levels.

4. Great Miner Chinese Cuisine

5. swimming pool

Based on comments and feedback, these changes will include new paintwork, furniture, wallpaper and carpeting, as well as an upgrade on elevators and banquet equipment to better serve guests.

6. Kenny Gym

7. Palong Coffee House

Both properties will spot a modern concept, although Kinta Riverfront Hotel shall retain its distinct tin mining theme. Tin mining holds an important history in Kinta Valley, once the biggest tin ore producer in the world.

8. Tin Ore Bistro

9. Standard King

Across the Kinta River, in the pipeline is a 50-feet tall giant Christmas tree to celebrate the Yuletide season, and will create a haven of outdoor enjoyment for all ages.

10. Superior King

11. Deluxe King

As for Hillcity Hotel, the recreational park in front of the hotel has been lighted up with LED-wrapped palm trees. This enhancement to the landscape brings a natural environment surrounding the hotel and exudes a cheery welcome to guests and visitors alike.

12. Executive Suite

13. Executive Suite

Hillcity Hotel’s new Chinese restaurant, Hillcity Restaurant, is opened for business and offers an extensive selection of Chinese dishes. On the other hand, steamboat lovers will be delighted to know that a Halal steamboat restaurant is in the works.

14. Family Suite

15. Family Suite

Amidst all the hotels that are being established in Ipoh these past couple of years, Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites and Hillcity Hotel, after an uplift, will look almost like new.

Both hotels offer a combined total of 510 guest rooms and suites, as well as a banquet capacity of 3000 pax.

Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites
Add: Jalan Lim Bo Seng, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 36.126′ E101° 4.768′

Tel: +605-2458888
Fax: +605-2458899
email: sales@kintariverfront.com.my
Website: kintariverfront.com.my

16. Hillcity Restaurant

Hillcity Hotel
Add: 227, Jalan Raja Dr. Nazrin Shah, 31350 Ipoh, Perak.
GPS: N 04° 33.831′ E101° 6.71′

Tel: +605-3135555
Fax: +605-3129355
email: enquires@hillcity.com.my
Website: hillcity.com.my

Photos courtesy of Morubina Group.

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1 Comments

• At November 2, 2014, thomas wrote:

  Looks beautiful the view from this hotel.

1. Titi Eco Farm Resort, Jelebu

Located about a thousand feet above sea level in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, is Titi Eco Farm Resort, where even ants are not killed, for fear of upsetting the eco-system of Mother Nature.

2. reception counter

3. log swing

Amidst lush greenery and fresh, crisp air, this countryside retreat is the ultimate destination for those seeking total wellness of mind, body and soul.

4. a maze fashioned with mint shrubs

5. organic farm

Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Titi Eco Farm Resort covers an area of 35 acres of land carefully planted with vegetables and trees, organically.

6. sesame field

7. giant aloe vera plants

As the first solar-powered resort in Malaysia, Titi Eco Farm advocates among its guests to practise the 3Rs of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

8. avocado fruits

9. natural garden

Titi Eco Farm Resort can accommodate overnight guests in their semi-detached traditional kampung-style houses.

10. an ostrich

11. accommodation

Although there are currently only 14 units of rooms, either twin or triple sharing per room, the retreat has enough land space for those who prefer to camp outdoors.

12. triple sharing room

13. another triple sharing room

Guests are free to bring along their own camping gear. And don’t forget your mosquito repellent!

14. connecting rooms

15. organic store

While staying at Titi Eco Farm Resort, do not expect modern necessities such as television and air-conditioning.

16. reusable bags

17. dining area

Guests, however, get to enjoy wholesome and fresh organic food harvested straight from the farm – REAL food that’s processed and refined as little as possible before being served, to maintain its natural integrity and nutrition.

18. an organic meal

19. a statement to reduce the use of toilet paper

Titi Eco Farm Resort
Add: Jalan Sungai Rotan, Titi, Jelebu, 71650 Negeri Sembilan.
Web: www.titieco.com.my

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1. star attractions of Rantau Eco Park - Mary (R) & Eddie (L)

Opened for business just five months ago, Rantau Eco Park in what was formerly a flood-prone area offers visitors ultimate relaxation.

2. lake ready for water activities

3. boating recreations

On this piece of 100-acre land, you can indulge yourself in all sorts of activities, from just lounging around to water sports in the man-made lake.

4. boating

5. mini cruise

Besides those adventurous activities, there is also an arts centre, where guests can get hands-on in batik painting, wood carving and bamboo weaving.

6. scenic Mother Nature

7. on the way back to shore

Getting around easily either on foot, bicycles, All Terrain Vehicles or even in a vintage car, you would be surrounded by lush forests, as you visit the mini zoo, horse barn, deer farm, Pulau Kura-Kura or indulging in one of the many other activities such as horse-riding and canoeing.

8. jogging track

9. Pulau Kura-Kura

Unlike other zoos, visitors to this mini zoo are allowed to feed some of the animals, including deer, horses and chickens. Animal pellets are for sale at the reception counter.

10. tortoise

11. horses

Also, Rantau Eco Park is soon to be known as THE venue to host massive events due to its ample space, and it had already successfully hosted Pesta Hari Buruh, Pesta Hari Ibu, Larian Rantau and most recently, the Mid-Autumn Festival.

12. Aan riding the All Terrain Vehicle

13. a ride in a classic car

While Rantau Eco Park receives day visitors, those who prefer to stay the night here can opt for a room or dormitory unit.

14. dormitory

15. a dorm unit

Presently, there are 16 rooms, each with two single beds or one queen bed, and 20 dormitories with four beds per unit.

16. room with a Queen bed

17. another room with a Queen bed

As Rantau Eco Park is being developed phase by phase, visitors can expect a lot more attractions from the resort in due time.

18. plenty of activities going on

19. woodcraft items for sale

For example, the current boat ride will be extended to a 6km cruise, which is something to look forward to. Going through the park’s future development plans, Rantau Eco Park will be a world of its own when it is fully developed.

20. bamboo weaving demonstration

21. bamboo craft

Rantau Eco Park
Add: Kg. Pasir, Kuala Sawah, 71200 Rantau, Negeri Sembilan.
Tel: 03-92876833
Fax: 03-92870233
Web: www.rantauecopark.com.my
E-mail: info@rantauecopark.com.my

Business hours: 8am – 6pm daily

22. batik painting

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1. Ipoh’s Sultan Azlan Shah Airport welcomes YOU Wings maiden flight from Medan

Being invited to YOU Wings’ inaugural launch and maiden flight from Medan, Indonesia to Ipoh, Malaysia, and the only blogger at that, meant that I was one of the privileged few to view the landing of a Boeing at the newly renovated Sultan Azlan Shah Airport from the VIP room.

2. Boeing 737-500 from Sriwijaya Air managed by YOU Wings

The aircraft by Sriwijaya Air, managed by YOU Wings, was the first Boeing to touch down at Ipoh’s airport since its runway was lengthened from 1.8km to 2km last year.

3. welcome to Ipoh!

Although business at the airport has picked up lately and more destinations are now accessible via Ipoh airport, YOU Wings remain the only company that is flying a Boeing from this airport.

4. the crew of the maiden flight

The maiden flight using Boeing 737-500W had a capacity of 120 passengers, with eight Executive Class seats and the rest, Economy. It was full flight coming in from Medan, and similarly packed flying out of Ipoh to Medan. I was on that maiden flight as I was also invited to join in a familiarisation tour of Medan for 3D/2N.

5. at the immigration counter

Commenced on Nov 25, YOU Wings fly Medan-Ipoh-Medan four times weekly, on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

The following is the flight schedule:

KNO-IPH:
Departure from Medan at 11.45am (local time)
Arrival in Ipoh at 1.40pm (local time)

IPH-KNO:
Departure from Ipoh at 2.25pm (local time)
Arrival in Medan at 2.20pm (local time)

YOU Wings’ on-going promotion is an introductory all-in fare of RM99 one way from Ipoh to Medan. Additionally, golfers would be happy to know that for the first three months, they can enjoy a waiver on golf bag charges.

6. at the customs check point – the airport is in need of baggage scanners

A day earlier, YOU Wings launched direct flights from Kuala Terengganu to Medan. The company now fly out of the East Coast city three times weekly, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

This December 15, YOU Wings will also increase their flights from once to twice daily from Penang to Medan.

7. Dato’ Nolee Ashilin (R) & Dato’ Harun Rawi (L) officiate the launching ceremony of YOU Wings inaugural flight from Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh, as YOU Wings CEO Daniel Lee looks on

In the pipeline for YOU Wings are flights to more Indonesian and Chinese destinations, directly from the Ipoh airport. Of course, the ultimate dream for Chief Executive Officer Daniel Lee, is to make the airport the company’s hub, he being a true Ipoh boy.

8. some of the passengers on YOU Wings maiden flight to Medan from Ipoh

YOU Wings provide full service flights for passengers, inclusive of light on-board refreshment and 20kg checked luggage. Those who fly YOU Wings also enjoy maximum comfort, top level service, PLUS a pleasant surprise that will only be unveiled on board.

Event: YOU Wings Inaugural Flight Launch (Ipoh – Medan)
Venue: Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH)
Date: 25th Nov, 2014
Time: 2pm

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1. The Haven Resorts

The New Year is upon us soon and suddenly, it seems that everything is happening all at once. I don’t remember being this busy. Sure, friends are envious that I get to travel to places, but trust me, travelling comes with a certain level of stress too!

2. the lobby

3. living room

And so, an opportunity for a staycation with my family couldn’t have come at a more timely manner. Well, it wasn’t a staycation in the true sense of the word, but I am sure you get my meaning – a holiday in my own hometown, Ipoh.

4. the living room

5. dining area

Is it possible to take a vacation in your own hometown? Yes, of course. I’ve always said that we don’t have to travel too far to have a good time! In fact, guests at the 5-star luxurious condotel The Haven Resorts also enjoy privacy and exclusivity, without having to forgo the convenience of being close to the heart of the city.

6. hardwood dining table custom-made for The Haven

7. kitchen counter

No doubt, The Haven is very well-connected by OCE fibre-optic broadband and one could get work done speedily while staying here, but personally, I didn’t even want to think about my assignments at hand. They can wait!

8. master bedroom

9. master bedroom

These photos I am sharing are of the 2+1 Lakeview Executive Suite that is going for RM 1,370++ with complimentary buffet breakfast. If you check the website of The Haven Resorts, you can get a better deal for the suite, so always plan your holiday well.

10. attached bathroom with glass partition

11. second bedroom

At a cursory glance, one wouldn’t realise the thought in details that the developer has put into the building of this condotel project. However, to live in it, guests would appreciate the placement of power points at just the right spots, the high ceiling, rectified tiles or grade 40 walls that reduce noise pollution.

12. the single room

13. the maid’s room with attached bathroom

I was surprised to learn that the hardwood dining table was custom-made purposely for The Haven. In addition, unlike the balconies of other high-rise buildings, all the balconies here have rain-guards and drainage. Also as you can see from my photos, safety measures are in place.

14. view from the suite

15. the stainless steel balcony rail that bends at the edge that prevents kids from climbing and accidentally fall over

Take a look at the stainless steel balcony rail that bends at the top to prevent children from climbing up and accidentally fall over and the windows that don’t fully open to ensure children can be left alone in the unit for a short while without harm coming to them.

16. the window that doesn’t open fully - a safety feature

17. dual door lock - guests could opt to use a key or card access

The Haven Resorts is a disabled-friendly property. Besides rental to guests like a conventional hotel, these units are also for sale, like a condominium. That’s why it is called “condotel”. There are seven types of suites, most offer either lake or horizon view.

18. The Premiere Restaurant

19. the ballroom

Other facilities available at The Haven for use by guests are the ballroom, seminar halls, club house, swimming pool and covered car park.

20. the function room

21. a smaller function room that connects to the larger one that can have its partition removed for a bigger space

Once you’re in The Haven, you wouldn’t want to leave. That was exactly how I felt. Hungry go where? There’s Cuisines, The Haven’s exclusive restaurant, at our service.

22. The Haven Resorts

BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Haven Ipoh
Add: Jalan Haven (Persiaran Lembah Perpaduan), 31150 Tambun, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 38.167′ E101° 9.684′

Email: reservations@bestwesternhaven.com.my
Web: Best Western Haven | The Haven Resorts
Tel: +605 220 9000
Fax: +605 220 9011
Hotline: 1700.8.1700.0

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1. Ipoh’s Mural Arts Lane

What began as a simple idea to enliven the dirty walls of shop houses along the back lanes of Old Town in Ipoh, inspired by Ernest Zacharevic’s work in Penang, has now evolved to be a new destination for city tourists to Ipoh.

2.

3.

Eric Lai’s “art lane” stretching the whole of Lorong Panglima, which he and his art students painted over the past two years with colourful murals that depict the many cultural and traditional aspects of Malaysian life, was launched last Sunday as Ipoh’s Mural Arts Lane.

4.

5.

Naturally, with its new status, there are even more murals now, plus the number of artists involved in the redecoration of the back lane has expanded to involve art students in the institutions of higher learning in Perak.

6.

7.

During my visit to Mural Arts Lane a couple of days ago, the area was teeming with visitors eager to take photos of and with the murals.

8.

9.

As I have visited Panglima Lane numerous times before, in this post, I am just sharing the new art work.

10.

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