FEI World Endurance Accommodation 2008 at Sutra Beach Resort, Lembah Bidong, Setiu Terengganu

WEBSITE : http://www.eventuz.com/events/index.php?eventID=3
The FEI WEC 2008, held once every two years, is one of the greatest and toughest horse endurance racing championships, covering a total ride distance of 160km. The organiser Yayasan DiRaja Sultan Mizan (DYSM) believes the FEI WEC 2008 has all the trappings of the most keenly contested endurance competition ever since its official inception in Pratoni del Vavario, Italy in 1986.

The uniqueness is of this sport is that there are two athletes involved (rider and horse) and they need to be in perfect synchronisation on the day of the race in order to achieve the top spot. It therefore not only requires a well conditioned, tough horse at its peak fitness level but a high dose of physical strength, fitness, stamina, strong mental power and determination from the rider.

International Equestrian Federation (FEI) World Endurance Championship 2008
Date: 6th November - 9th November 2008
Venue: Lembang Bidong, Merang, Setiu, Terengganu
Organiser: State Government of Terengganu / Yayasan Diraja Sultan Mizan / Arif Solutions
Telephone No: 09-623 1957 / 03-7713 5585 (Secretariat WEC)
Website: http://www.malaysia-wec.com/



HOTEL ACCOMMODATION FOR TEAMS/INDIVIDUALS
Accommodation, food and soft drinks with meals, will be provided for all individuals nominated by their NF (as per the definite entries list) from the dates as detailed below. Additional persons (if any) will have to make their own arrangements.
Accommodation will be provided for team/individuals in the following Official Hotels:
Sutra Beach Resort
Hotel Address: Kampung Rhu Tapai, Merang
21010 Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia

Phone : +609 669 6200 / 653 1111
Fax : +609 653 1226




Getting There
Located at the easter coast of the Peninsular in Terengganu, amidst the fishing village of Merang. The journey will take close to half an hour from Sultan Mahmud Shah, Kuala Terengganu Airport. 7 hours from Kuala Lumpur, but if you'd rather take the easy way, you could always take a plane to the airport which will only take about 45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur.

Services and Facilities
* Swimming Pool
* Outdoor/Indoor games and activities
* Traditional massages
* VCR for rental
* Books and magazines provided.
* Internet services.
* Meeting and conference facilities

The Most Happening Street Bukit Bintang Walk

Bintang Walk is located along the Jalan Bukit Bintang shopping strip. This place has been transformed over the last 5 years to be one of the busiest shopping haven. Cafes, restaurants, clubs, shops, malls and more fill up this street. On weekends, thousands of locals as well as tourists promenade along Bintang Walk and its shopping centres. Almost every major nightlife event happens here such as the New Year's countdown, Merdeka eve celebrations, as well as fashion shows, street concerts and parties.

A wide pedestrian walkway running the length of the street has transformed it into an exciting rendezvous point with open air cafes and restaurants.

The many shopping centres along Bukit Bintang ensure that you will never run out of options.

Here, we have shopping centres- Starhill Gallery, Lot 10, Sungai Wang Plaza, Bukit BIntang Plaza, Imbi Plaza, Low Yat Plaza, Galleria Mondo, KL Plaza.

Bintang Walk has al fresco dining outlets, fast food outlets, individual stores selling bric brac, gifts, pharmary , banks, Indian coffee shops,

There is also Little Arab, off Jl Bukit Bintang at Jl Berangan.

The nearest hotel is Capitol Hotel Kuala Lumpur, located at Jalan Bulan, Off Jalan Bukit Bintang.

This place become packed during the months of July to Sept when many Arabs come to Malaysia for holidays. This time coincide with their school holidays and many choose to go overseas to escape the scorching heat in Middle East during this time of the year. The temperature in the Middle East during the peak summer can go up as high as 47°C.

Its just a short walk away is Sungei Wang Plaza Shopping Centre and BB Plaza Shopping Mall and the nearby Batik Malaysia Berhad Retail outlet - a must for fine Malaysian Batik. Further along is Bintang Walk, Lot 10, KL Plaza with Planet Hollywood and Starhill, with the Louis Vuitton mega store.

Fraser's Hill Resort

Fraser's Hill Resort main activity are that you can do here is bird-watching. This hill resort has become a premier bird watching centre in Malaysia with more than 270 species of birds discovered so far. As a recognition of this, the Malaysian Nature society, the WWF Malaysia and Fraser's Hill Development Corporation organise the International Bird Race annually usually in the month of June. Getting a good binocular and a camera is a must if you want to enjoy the most of your bird-watching activity.

The birds that can easily spotted here are the silver-eared mesia, long tailed sibia, fire tufted barbet and the blyth's hawk eagle.

This hill was founded by Louis James Fraser, a Scottish trader who established tin ore trading station at the end of 1900. He used to use mule to transport the goods. However, he mysteriously disappeared in the jungle of Fraser's Hill without a trace in the early 1900s. In 1919, the hill was developed into a hill station for those who want to escape the heat and humid weather at the lowlands of Malaysia.

If you have your own transport, visit the Jeriau Falls, a waterfall with crystal clear water where you can take a dip and enjoy the tranquility of the nature. It is located 5km away from the town centre.

There is also the man-made lake called Allan's Water where you can do boating for a fee. Children will love the boating on the lake in the midst of cool and quiet environment.

The distance of the resort from Kuala Lumpur is approximately 105km. There is no direct bus from Kuala Lumpur to Fraser's Hill. You will need to take bus no 66 from Pudu Raya Bus Terminal to Kuala Kubu Bahru. The bus services are available every 30 minutes. From Kuala Kubu Bahru, take the 10am bus to the hill.




If you are driving from Kuala Lumpur, take the North South Highway to the north and exit at Rawang. From Rawang, follow the signage to Ipoh and you will pass Serendah town followed by Batang Kali and Rasa town. After Rasa town, follow the signage and turn right to Kuala Kubu Bahru town. From here, follow the easterly road past the police station and up the hill. There is no longer any time restriction to go up and down the resort as a new road was opened in March 2006.

Secretariat
Perbadanan Kemajuan Bukit Fraser
JKR300, Jalan Masjid, 25000 Kuantan
Pahang Darul Makmur

Tel: +6 09 5171 623, +6 09 5171 624
Tel: +6 09 3622 195 (Fraser's Hill Office)

Rubber Tapping Experience At Pelegong Homestay

Rubber Tapping Experience At Pelegong Homestay, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia




Get away from it all and return to the serenity of life in a traditional Malay village under the Pelegong Homestay programme in Negeri Sembilan. Here, you are able to enjoy the warm hospitality of your host family and be a part of the household by joining them in their daily activities.

Wake up to the authenticity of 'kampung' life. Listen to the sounds of cockerels greeting a new day, breathe in the crisp fresh air and look forward to the simple pleasures of life -- collect your own eggs from the coop, learn to tap a rubber tree, enjoy an icy cool dip at the nearby river before trying your luck at fishing and try your hand at baking delicious Malay cakes.














Another trade on the village (kampung) is rubber. Unfortunately this monoculture isn't exactly the best thing for the environment. However, this is a cash crop for many of the islanders. They like showing travelers how to produce a rubber mat. It's actually rather interesting. You'll get to tap a tree with a special knife and work the rolling machine that makes the mats.
















Syaza Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd
No 18/AF Jalan Kosas 1/5, Taman Kosas Ampang
Selangor

Phone : 019-2207789 (DIN)

Bukit Gantang Homestay - Perak Vacation

Bukit Gantang Homestay is one of the Perak Vacation destination. Bukit Gantang is rich in history. According to local folklore, an escaped elephant from the village was found stuck in mud covered in rich tin.

Its owner, Long Jaafar, soon became wealthy with the opening of tin mines in the area. He was also appointed as territory controller and contributed much to the growth of the area.

Since then, Bukit Gantang has grown from a small village to a bustling area full of activity. Eventhough the area has been developed, traditional cultural practices are still alive here.

Get to experience Malay homestay with the locals. Feed the chickens, and tour the village on a bicycle. Get up early in the morning to tap rubber, or see the process of making 'asam gelugor'.

Other activities include visits to the local museum and an eco natural hot springs treatment. Take time to immerse in the lovely Malay culture of Bukit Gantang, and discover a world of wonders!

HOMESTAY KAMPUNG ACTIVITIES:
1. Rubber tapping experience
2. Asam Gelugor' processing
3. Visits local products such as 'Bedak Sejuk', 'Kerepek' and Malay cookies.
4. Orientation visits at Agrotourism Farm

HOW TO GO THERE:
By car. About 10 minutes drive from Changkat Jering Toll Exit, from the North-South Highway. Turn left on the first traffic-light and turn right on the second traffic-light. Drive for another 5 km to Bukit Gantang Farm.

BUKIT LARUT
Taiping has always been known as an attractive little town with its distinct and charming architecture of mostly pre-world war 2 shops houses. The town itself is overlooked by serene jungle-clad hills, the most famous of them being Bukit Larut.

Founded in 1884 as Maxwell Hill by the British, Bukit Larut is Malaysia's oldest hill station and is located a mere ten kilometres from the quiet and sleepy old town of Taiping. Located at approximately 1250 m above sea level, the hill station has the distinction of being in the wettest part of the country and therefore experiences the highest rainfall in Malaysia.

Visitors to Bukit Larut will definitely notice how Bukit Larut's charm lies in its simplicity. Rather than being a typical superfluous and developed hill resort, Bukit Larut retains much of its original atmosphere as a colonial hill station. The hill station is dotted with many rustic colonial style bungalows and almost all of which are surrounded by colourful and carefully tended gardens. Most of the bungalows are available for rent, with rates starting from RM120 a night. Visitors can inquire or make bookings at the entrance of the hill station located near its foothill.

VIDEO:



LOCATION:
Bukit Gantang Homestay,
Pejabat Penyelaras Homestay,
Jalan Kuala Kangsar,
34850 Changkat Jering, Taiping,
Perak.

Tel/ Fax:
605- 855 4967/ 605- 855 4078/ 605- 855 4180.
Email:BGHomestay@Gmail.com

City Homestay Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia

Tucked away in the state of Perak, this fishing village is just a two and a half hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur.
You will meet the friendly kampong folks who will treat you like their own children. You will also learn about their culture and they will learn about yours too.

There are many activities that you can participate; either action-packed or simply take a stroll along the charming pathways in town. Here, you will enjoy every minute of your homestay experience. It can be as exciting or as relaxing as you want!

Room provided are very comfortable. Rooms are clean, with a lot of facilities provided. Queen size beds, big bathroom attached, large screen TV, air-conditioned, it's all what we can find in big-name hotels for twice less to pay! (We paid only 30 Euros for that room.)

Besides, the manager is very kind to provide transport to/from Ipoh bus/train station. We don't have any airport around here unfortunately.

5-star treatment in a what we call a budget hotel, transport to/from bus station provided. Balcony offers great views.



Would I recommend this hotel to my best friend?
absolutely!

I recommend this hotel for:
Young singles, An amazing honeymoon, Older travelers, Families with young children, Families with teenagers, Tourists




LOCATION:
No 4, Hala Rapat Baru 26
Taman Taufik,
Off Jalan Gopeng Ipoh 31350 Malaysia

Booking, Please Call:
05-3131020
019-5713131
019-5693131
019-5793131

Web : http://city-homestay.tripod.com
Email: cityhomestay@gmail.com

Travel Video Today 1 - Travel to Malaysia

The Malaysia Truly Asia campaign was very successful but we needed to focus more on these key markets because of language barriers and this will be helped by Michael’s continued participation,” Director of Tourism Malaysia Promotion Board’s Hong Kong, Macau and China office Zaliha Zainuddin told e-travelblackboard. “This new sub-campaign will have an emphasis on experiential travel to Malaysia, focusing on all the unique moments that can be experienced.

GOOD VIEW COLLECTION : Travel Video Today

Travel agent in Malaysia will manage to do hotel reservations and tour packages all categories including eco tours to Taman Negara and Endau Rompin. Visitor with their passports and travel documents must be endorsed for traveling in Malaysia. ost visitors, either on business or pleasure trips, do not require visas to enter Malaysia but this really depends on how long you will be in the country.

This website will offer comfort and quality information about backpackers, cheap tickets and cheap flights with great value for the money, ideal for leisure and business travelers.

Search and compare airline tickets and hotel deals to thousand of locations. Cheap flights is a comprehensive source for online travel information.

For flight booking : http://www.putraonline.com/flightsbooking/index.htm

Fishing in Kelong Malaysia : Kelong Wing Sing, Sibu Island

Kelong, lift nets are use to catch fishes that are attracted by the lights placed above the nets at night.

LOCATION:
Kelong Wing Sing is located at Sibu Island, Johor, Malaysia. It is one of the best in the east cost of Johor. Don't be surprise because the kelong is equipped with TV, kitchen, bathroom and living room.



Pulau Sibu forms part of the Seribuat chain of islands and lies 12 kilometres off the east coast of the West Peninsular of Malaysia. The island is shaped like a triangular hour glass, about 6 kilometres long and never more than one kilometre wide it's whole length.













ACTIVITIES:
fishing, island hopping, swimming, snorkeling.





PACKAGE:
2 days 1 nights RM 180 /person (Adult) RM 100 /person (child)
3 days 2 nights RM 250 /person RM 130 /person
4 days 3 nights RM 280 /person RM 160 /person

Package will include :
* kelong accommodation
* 2 ways boat transfer Tg Leman Jetty - kelong (25 minutes)
* meals : breakfast, lunch and dinner
* fishing baits and ice.
* island hopping, swimming, snorkelling etc (advance confirmation is required).

VIDEO:


SELECTED COLLECTION : Fight During Fishing


CONTACT:
Address
MYOUTDOOR.COM SDN BHD
15-01, Jalan Padi Emas 3/1,
Bandar Baru UDA,
81200 Johor Bahru Johor.
Fax +607-235 1217
Email inquiry@myoutdoor.com, yasmin@myoutdoor.com
Website http://www.myoutdoor.com

OR

1.Ah Fatt's Kelong | Pulau Sibu | +6019 712 0333
2.Ah Ngan's Kelong | Pulau Sibu | +6019 771 2879
3.Kelong Wing Sing | Pulau Sibu | (+607) 227 2907

MALAYSIAN BUDGET 2008 - 22 Million For Homestay Activities

To further increase the country’s attraction as a major tourist destination, RM858 million is allocated for the implementation of various programmes, including the provision and upgrading of tourism facilities as well as diversification of tourism products. An allocation of RM22 million is provided to increase homestay activities in 47 selected villages. In addition, the development of ecotourism projects will be undertaken to generate income for the rural community, including Orang Asli.

To further promote tourism activities in Sabah and Sarawak, RM200 million is provided under the Tourism Infrastructure Fund, managed by Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad. Priority will be given to tourism projects which leverage on the rich natural endowments of Sabah and Sarawak.

Orang Asli Kampung Chadak Aborigine Village Homestay, Ulu Kinta, Perak, Malaysia

Ulu Kinta’s geographical spot has been its most intriguing feature. Located inland at the foot of the Titiwangsa Mountain Range, it has been an age-old spot where Temiar aborigines, also called the Orang Asli, from hilly interior exchange and bartered with traders from coastal towns. The Temiars still collect and trade off jungle produce like rattans, resins, honey, petai (an edible bean pod that grows on lofty trees), bamboo and medicinal plants for coastal items like salt, fish, poultry and other domestic essential not available from the rainforest.

To help edge nature-lovers closer to this unsung region, we have chosen Ulu Kinta’s most strategic village Kampung Chadak as base. Flanking the banks of upper Kinta and Senoi Oi rivers, the village is home to 30 odd Temiar families who still practices traditions and taboos passed down from their forefathers. Temiars have deep respect for wildlife and only hunt for sustenance. Kampung Chadak is also the starting point for one of Malaysia’s most gruesome mountain trail, the Trans-Titiwangsa Range. For hundreds of years, people from this village were much sought after as guides by adventurers wanting to scale nearby Mount Korbu (2,183 metres), the highest peak on main range Titiwangsa. Needless to say, the Temiars are brave, hardy and jungle savvy.

Apart from wowing one with authentic jungle living experience, this homestay package is also designed for those who want to learn and take home some jungle survival skills. Take heart, it’s not all rough and tough. We’ll be gentle on you. There is ample time to explore the village or simply read a book by the cool riverside.




LOCATION
Pick up Point - We provide free transfer from JUSCO Shopping Mall (see above map) to Kampung Chadak by 4×4 vehicles. For direct pick-ups from Medan Kidd or Medan Gopeng bus station, additional charges shall be levied. You can also hop on buses that ply Medan Kidd-JUSCO on hourly basis, which is a cheaper option. From Medan Gopeng, there’s no bus to JUSCO and the journey by taxi takes 20 mins.





ACTIVITY
Quick Itinerary Glance

DAY 1 – Blending In
12.00 noon – Pick up in Ipoh and enjoy an authentic Malay welcome lunch
1:00 pm – 4×4 transfer to Ulu Kinta Aboriginal Forest Reserve.
3:00 pm – Learn how to make and weave baskets and mat from native womenfolk
5:00 pm – Free & easy, swim and bath in the river
7:00 pm – Dinner of Orang Asli jungle food

DAY 2 – Live like the Aborigines
8.00 am – Breakfast.
9.00 am – Trek, explore and learn about rainforest ecology and useful medicinal, edible or special plants from aborigine jungle experts.
1.00 pm – Under Temiar guide’s tutelage, cook your own jungle lunch.
2.00 pm - After lunch, learn how to use the blowpipe.
3.00 pm - Learn to make and rig traps on trees and forest floor.
4.00 pm – Back trek to Kampung Chadak
5:00 pm – 4×4 transfer back to Ipoh.

This is an easy going itinerary that leaves travellers with a lot of time for photography, relaxing and connecting with nature.

COST
Duration: 2 days 1 night
Season: January – December
Price: RM690 per person




Price Includes …

- 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, fruits and snacks.
- Complimentary 4 liters of bottled drinking water.
- Sleeping bags
- English speaking naturalist and Orang Asli guides
- 4×4 offroad return transfers ex-Ipoh.
- Rainforest and aborigine reserve entrance permits.




CONTACT
No.10 Persiaran Ind. Bercham 9
31400 Bercham, Ipoh, Kinta Valley
Perak, MALAYSIA

Phone 05 5421006 Mobile 019 5717008 Fax 05 5421008
Skype ID - adven7u
Email : travelscenes@yahoo.com.my, outskirtoutreach@gmail.com

Uncle Chang’s Sipadan Mabul Dive Lodge, Semporna, Sabah Malaysia

With the famous Uncle Chang’s Sipadan Mabul Dive Lodge, you no longer need to stay in Semporna. Situated on beautiful Mabul Island, our Lodge puts you in the heart of world-class diving, with all of the sites you want to dive only minutes away.



Come stay with us over the holiday months and take advantages of our special promotional prices. With a brand new, spacious open air dining hall over the waters of the Celebes Sea, a revamped dive center and new guest rooms, Uncle Chang has made a quality Malay experience affordable for all.

BUDGET:
For Rm. 50.00 With All Meals Per Person/Night. Plus free tea, coffee, water and sandwiches.

Room
Non-Diver Rm 80.00
2 Dives Rm 130.00
3 Dives Rm 170.00

No Night Dive Allowed In Sipadan, Please See Price For Mabul Island.
Mabul - Night Dive Rm 80.00, Torch Light Rm 20.00

Rental : Snorkeling Gear Rm 15.00, cuba gear Rm 40.00


How to Contact:
Tel : (+6) 089-781002 ( Office Hrs ),
(+6) 089-786988 ( 24 hrs ), (+6) 089-781789 ( Fax )

Mobile # s :(+6) 0178940002, (+6) 0178980002

Email: info@sipadanbackpackers.com, mabulbackpackerslodge@yahoo.com

Website : www.sipadanbackpackers.com

Spheredivers Homestay, Mabul Island, Sabah, Malaysia

ABOUT MABUL ISLAND
Mabul Island is reputed to be one of the best places for underwater macro photography in the world. Located in the clear waters of the Celebes Sea off the mainland of Sabah, it is surrounded by gentle sloping reefs two to 40m deep. Covering some 21 ha., it is considerably larger than the nearby Sipadan Island and is home to the Bajau Laut tribe, one of many ethnic groups in Sabah. Diving is the main activity on this island, and it can be done all year round. Marine life that can be seen here includes sea horses, exotic starfish, fire gobies, crocodile fish, pipefish and snake eels. There are over eight popular dive spots, each with its own specialty. Three resorts cater to scuba divers - two are on the island itself while one is on a converted oil rig platform about 500m offshore. The offshore resort is called Sipadan Water Village Resort. Sipadan Water Village is a resort beautifully constructed with Bajau architectural design. The entire resort is built over water on stilts made of Belian Wood commonly called ironwood, laid in certain points so as to minimise damage to the existing reef. In its design, Sipadan Water Village has achieved near utopia in its over-the-water layout, splendid water cottage accommodations with flowered sidewalks, wonderfully prepared Asian and Continental cuisine, and impeccable and personable service. All of the resorts provide day trips for their guests to the nearby Pulau Sipadan and Kapalai Island. To reach Mabul Island, it is a 30-minute boat ride from Semporna and 20 minutes from Sipadan Island.




ABOUT SPHEREDIVERS HOMESTAY
Spheredivers Homestay provides accomodation for Divers and Non Divers.Diving packages varies upon guests request whether to dive in Sipadan Island or hunting for small critters around Mabul and Kapalai dive sites.As for snorkelers, its all free to snorkels around Mabul Island.We also provides Discovery Scuba and PADI/SSI Open Water courses to guests,not to mention other courses from Advanced to Dive Master courses by our most experienced Instructor(PADI/SSI)

Situated in Mabul Island,Spheredivers Homestay and Scuba Diving is among the Bajau people houses who lives on stilts.So do our homestay, maintaining the originality of the surroundings creating a similar environment to our guests. Guests form all over the world would definitely experience the culture of this island with its friendly people with a well construct diving facilities to cater for your dives.We mainly serve traditional Malay food but also offers simple western food especially for breakfast.

Homestay houses

* 6 Twin Sharing Rooms (Single bed)
* Dining Area
* Dive Centre with all Diving facilities
* Sundeck

Accomodation Price
Divers RM 70/Night for
Non Divers RM 170 + RM 70 subsequent night




LOCATION
There's no airport in Semporna, so book your flight to Tawau (some airlines via Kuala Lumpur/K.Kinabalu) instead and a 45 minutes ride by taxi to Semporna.For domestic , Airasia flies directly from LCCT (Kuala Lumpur) to Tawau,whereas Malaysian Airlines(MAS) at this moment only flies to Tawau via Kota Kinabalu.To reach Mabul Island, it is a 30-minutes boat ride from Semporna and 25 min from Sipadan Island.

Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia provide flights departing from Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru to Kota Kinabalu. From Kota Kinabalu you fly with Malaysia Airlines in 50 minutes to Tawau.

At the new Tawau airport you are picked up by minivan and transferred in 1,5 hours to the fishing village Semporna. If you arrive there in the afternoon it is better to stay there one night and travel to the islands on the next day.

From Semporna all operators bring their guests by speedboat to the islands.

Semporna - Mabul 30 Min.
Semporna - Kapalai 45 Min.
Semporna - Sipadan 60 Min


Facilities/Services
♦Diving
♦Snorkeling
♦Fishing
♦Underwater Video Service
As much as Scuba Divers and Snorkelers love to see the creatures of the sea, as more grows the urge for many of us to capture these beautiful animals and their behavior on video(DVD).Therefore,we provide this service on request basis.Prices differs accordingly to numbers of people in a group.Do inform us in advance(at least one day earlier) so that we can arrange with the underwater video dive team.

♦Internet Service
We provides internet service at minimum rate and provides rental notebook usage for image downloadings.


♦Cavern Dive(Turtle Tomb Sipadan)
Check out with our Cavern Instructor and our Dive Master who has hundreds of logged cavern dive in turtle tomb Sipadan for that experience you will never forget.



Contact Persons

For reservations or enquiry , please e-mail to:-
Reservations@spheredivers.com

or if you wish to speak in person to us, please contact:-
stanley@spheredivers.com or scubado@pd.jaring.com Tel no: +6019-668-3731
azhar@spheredivers.com Tel no: +6012-285-7043

YourHomeStay Blog Choosen by Tech & U * NSTP

A taste of ‘kampung’ life
Rozana Sani, NSTP
July 28, 2008



THE Petronas Twin Towers, F1 track in Sepang, Genting Highlands, Malacca and Penang often top the must-see sites for tourists to Malaysia. While these are arguably some of the most popular attractions, they do not exactly give tourists an insight into who Malaysians really are. Besides, not all travel budgets can accommodate such an itinerary.



On that premise, 43-year-old Shahruddin Mohamad Nor took the initiative to set up a local homestay guide targeted at budget travellers looking to experience a more traditional lifestyle in the country, in particular the kampung.

“I started Malaysia Backpackers Destination and Homestay (http://yourhomestay.blogspot.com) two years ago. My main aim is to promote homestay or rural tourist destinations that may be suitable for backpackers around the world to visit. Subsequently, this will help expose youths of the world to the Malaysian culture,” said the Putrajaya-based Government officer.

He explained that to take part in a homestay programme means to be “adopted” by a family and treated as a member of that family for the duration of the stay. Participants can immerse themselves in village activities such as wear traditional attire, go fishing in the rivers, play kites with the kids, eat simple local food, and observe local customs, just like how locals would go about their day.

The Malaysia Backpackers Destination and Homestay blog currently enjoys an average of 30 to 50 unique or loyal visitors daily.

Other than posts on the various homestay programmes available in the country, the blog features online hostel and flight booking.



“I intend to make the blog more interactive. I plan to integrate maps and demographic information on the homestay locations for tourists. Ultimately, I hope to turn the blog into a Malaysian homestay knowledge bank,” Shahruddin said.

He is optimistic that traffic to his blog will increase significantly once those plans are put in place.

READ NSTP ONLINE

Visit Desaku Homestay, Kota Bahru, Kelantan

Desaku Homestay is a guest house. The name "Homestay" denotes the home-like atmosphere of our guest house. We do not host homestay programs at Desaku Homestay.

Some people like to stay in the city. Some prefer the serenity and quaintness of a secluded village. Desaku Homestay offers peace and quiet kampung environment. Located three kilometers from the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport, we offer clean rooms at affordable prices for the budget-conscious traveler. Our homestay is suitable for layover for tourists coming from or going to Pulau Perhentian.


Desaku Homestay is also located near the historical beach Pantai Dasar Sabak.

Room Rates:

1.Double Bed + Double Decker = RM 80.00
2.Double Room (has 2 double beds) = from RM80.00 to RM 90.00
3.Standard (has 1 double bed) = RM 50.00


Facilities :

1.Ample and well-lit parking space
2.Guest kitchen
3.Satelite TV (Astro) in the common area
4.WiFi Internet connection


RESERVEATION:
Khairul Hakimin (Manager)
Telephone: +60 19 999 4920

Desaku Homestay
Lot 935, Kg Tebing Tinggi
Batu 7 1/2 Jalan Sabak,
16100 Kota Bharu,
Kelantan.

WEB : http://desakuhomestay.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,1/lang,english/

A Taste of Life as a Farmer - Kampung Sungai Haji Dorani, Sekinchan, Selangor

LOCATED about 15km away from Sekinchan in the northwest part of Selangor, Kampung Sungai Haji Dorani offers a unique getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The traditional village, which was established in the early 1800s, not only boasts picturesque padi fields but also welcomes city folk and foreign tourists to experience the lifestyle and traditions of the local people under the Dorani Homestay programme.

Many villagers start off the day as farmers on their padi fields and attend to their vegetable farms and fruit orchards in the afternoon. At sunset, they go to the nearby mangroves to catch crabs and snails.


VIDEO


ACTIVITIES
Under the homestay programme that is run by the villagers, visitors can have hands-on experience in everything related to padi, sleep and eat with their foster families and learn about the villagers' culture and tradition.





The programme promises a memorable experience as one communicates with the villagers, who are mostly of Javanese and Banjar descent and share the unique nasi embang in a huge tray.

Visitors would also be able to watch the traditional kuda kepang performance, zapin dance, Javanese wayang kulit and gamelan musical performance by the younger generation of the village.

MARINE PARK
Besides the homestay programme, the village is expected to attract more tourists once the first phase of the RM30mil marine park is completed at the end of the year.



The facilities include a 200m jetty for 114 small boats and five yachts, three rows of shophouses, floating seafood restaurants, a boat clubhouse, 13 chalets, a cultural square, an amphitheatre and a pedestrian bridge.

RESERVATION
For more information, call Abdul Rahman at 013-607 7025 or +603-32410846
Address:
Kediaman Haji Ahmad Jamiran,
Kampung Parit 1,
Sungai Haji Dorani,
45300 Sungai Besar, Selangor.

Mr Villa Homestay, Kedah

Bulan Jun 2006 adalah tarikh mulanya MR VILLA HOMESTAY beroperasi. Pelanggan pertama kami ialah 8 orang pegawai dari RTM Selangor yang membuat liputan SUKMA XI yang berlangsung di Kedah dan sejak dari tarikh itu MR VILLA HOMESTAY sentiasa dilanggani sehinggalah sekarang. Saya amat berterima kasih kepada pelanggan masakini kerana citarasa mereka telah berubah memilih untuk menginap di “homestay” yang lebih selesa, bersih dan aman seperti tinggal di rumah sendiri..

Sokongan dan cadangan-cadangan yang diberikan oleh pelanggan dari masa kesemasa telah dipenuhi, dan MR VILLA HOMESTAY telah menjadi pilihan utama pelanggan-pelangan tempatan dan juga dari luar Kedah.

For Reservation,
Phone : 604 - 771 3832
Mobile : 013 - 431 6629 (Rahim)
013 - 525 4115(Maria)
Email : mar@mr-villahomestay.comAlternative
Email : jabkes2000@yahoo.com
Website : http://www.mr-villahomestay.com/index.html
No 17 & 37, Jalan Desa Seraya 9/3, Taman Desa Seraya, Lebuhraya Sultanah Bahiyah (Lencong Barat),
05400 Alor Setar, Kedah Darul Aman.

Homestay Kg Relau, Kedah

Pekan Relau is a small traditional Malay rural township tucked away in the Bandar Baharu district which lies in the Southern part of Kedah Darul Aman. Bordering Northern Perak and Southern of Seberang Perai, it takes visitors only 45 minutes to reach the destination from Penang and 15 minutes from Parit Buntar in Perak. Its uniqueness is in the location itself. Surrounded by lush green hills with unspoilt natural beauty hence giving the town the extra edge over other rural locations of Kedah.

The Homestay Programme of Kampung Relau, is registered with the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism of Malaysia and manage by company called Sri Impian Recreation. Under this programme visitor are put up with their 'adopter' family throughout their stay. The company had selected 24 houses where visitor could be accommodated. The house are equipped with all facilities and basic amenities such as water and electricity. Some of the houses have built-in wells. The Homestay Programme offers visitors a unique and invaluable experience of a life time. It also has a large scale of camping site to whom that like the nature. It can support about 200 person at certain time.

Wall Climbing/abseiling
Canoeing Lake
Performance of traditional cultural shows:
The Malay Wedding
Kompang (hand held drum)
Nasyid (rendition of religious songs)
Dikir Barat
Boria
Traditional Malay Cooking

For reservation, kindly contact :
Sri Impian Holidays and Recreation Sdn. Bhd.
70, Jalan Jawi Jaya 1, Taman Jawi Jaya, 14200 Sg. Bakap S.P.S., Malaysia
Tel : 04-5825858, 013-4351520, 04-5824122, 012-4883620

Malaysia, Langkawi Pulau Tuba Homestay Program

There are currently four villages participating in the homestay program - Pulau Tuba, Kampung Wang Tok Rendong, Kampung Sungai Itau and Kampung Bukit Tangga. The villages offer a number of 90 rooms for the homestay program.

If you participate in the homestay program, you'd have the chance to stay with fisherman and farmers of this legendary island, and could see closely their daily routines, Malays' cultures and traditions, and other unique attractions.

Pulau Tuba is one among the 3 islands in Langkawi that is inhibited by people. This island occupies an area of about 20 square kilometre and consist of 5 fishing villages. Pulau Tuba is also known as "Pulau Islam" as all of its 3000 people are Muslims.



Getting to Pulau Tuba

The main route to Pulau Tuba starts at Kedah Cement Jetty in Kuah, Langkawi and ended up at Telok Puyoh, the main entrance to Pulau Tuba, a distance of 5 nautical km from Kuah. From Kuah, Langkawi, two types of transportation are available specifically speed boat (fibre-glass ) and normal passenger boats (modified fishing boats). Speed boats are meant for chartered services only. Chartered boat service are available at any time of the day. For a normal passenger boat, adults are charge RM 6.00 per person and RM3.00 for children. The boat ride will take a time of 25 minutes.

From Telok Puyoh, you can hire car and motorcyle (RM2-RM3) to explore the island.

For bookings please contact:

Langkawi Fishermen Association
07000, Kuah, Langkawi.
Tel: 04-9666102
Fax: 04-9666102

Kijang Care Homestay in Pantai Mek Mas, Kota Bahru, Kelantan

Kijang Care Homestay is located in Pantai Mek Mas, which is only about 20 minutes away from Kota Bharu.For your information, this area is very famous for local batik industry so you will have an opportunity to shop for good locally designed batik for sure.

Situated in a beautiful fishermen’s village in Kijang district, Kijang Care Homestay offers a very affordable stay at RM70.00 per night (approximately USD25).

It is interesting to know that 50% of the proceed from these homestay income will be used to finance other homestay projects to help the fishermen in the villages.

For more information on how to book the Kijang Care Homestay, please call Mr. Zaidi Hj Abdullah at +6019 372 7197 or +609 744 6800.

Malaysia Airlines low fare strategy to boost domestic load factor

Malaysian Airline System Bhd’s (MAS) just-launched “Everyday Low Fares” programme should boost its domestic load factor at a small expense to yields, says OSK Investment Research said.

In a research note issued on Monday, the research house said MAS’ current low load factor of around 70% allowed it to offer zero fare tickets for around 30% of its domestic flights.

It said the need to book the tickets early meant there should be minimal cannibalisation of existing passengers while collection of fuel surcharges and other taxes should cover additional costs.

“Overall, we see a positive impact, lifting core net profit by between 3% and 4%. Fair value is raised to RM5.20 and we see MAS leveraging on its enhanced efficiency to increasingly muscle into low-cost carrier (LCC) territory where it deems profitable. Maintain Buy,” it said.

Under the programme, MAS will set aside one million tickets or 30% of each flight between June 10 and Dec 14. Passengers must book the tickets at least 30 days in advance over the Iternet and still pay the surcharges and administrative charges. No cancellations or modifications are allowed.

DETAILS : http://www.malaysiaairlines.com/ELFZERO/fares.htm

BACKPACKERS ACCOMMODATION AND DESTINATION IN MALAYSIA

If you want to holiday in Malaysia, this website (www.putraonline.com) is worth it to visit.
It will help you to find out to get cheap flight and related hotel in Malaysia.

Even for backpacker its has list a lists of hostel which really popular in Malaysia.

Malaysia provide a huge number of guesthouses, backpacker and youth hostels in all over the cities in Malaysia and all over the world with the lowest internate rates that suit the backpackers and travelers.

Please visit www.putraonline.com and you are open to drop you comment.

How to Choose a Good Travel Agent in Malaysia

A travel agency is a business that sells travel related products and services, particularly package tours, to end-user customers on behalf of third party travel suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, tour companies, and cruise lines. In addition to dealing with ordinary tourists, most travel agents have a special department devoted to travel arrangements for business travelers, while some agencies specialize in commercial and business travelers. Some agencies also serve as general service agents for foreign travel companies in different countries.

Planning a vacation abroad can be difficult so its best to find a travel agent to guide you from start to finish. Even if you want to travel within your own country, it is always best to speak to those who are familiar with transportation, lodging, costs and also able to guide you.

HOW?
1. Ask family members or friends for recommendations.
2. Have a look at the travel agent's website (if they have one).
3. Have a walk past and have a look at the interior and exterior of the store.
4. Make a short list of your favorite so far and give them a call. Cross any travel agents off the list that are not willing to listen or who don't answer your questions properly.
5. Note that if you still haven't selected a travel agent, choose the one from your list that has the most years of experience, cheapest deals and is the most helpful.

Backpacking Malaysia for Solo Travel - Malaysia Travel Guide

Accommodation:

Like Thailand there are very few dormitories in the hostels in Malaysia. You will almost certainly have your own room. This should not pose too much of a problem if you are looking to meet other travellers.

Because Malaysia is slightly less popular than Thailand you are more likely to be sharing a guesthouse with fewer people which can make for a friendly atmosphere. As a solo traveller the more off the beaten track you get the friendly other travellers tend to be.

The cheapest places to stay tend to be Chinese owned guesthouses.

Budget:

Guesthouses in Malaysia tend to start at around 50 rg for a single room to 90 rg double. Prices to vary throughout the country and tend to be cheaper in KL.

Camping options are limited in Malaysia and are normallyconfined to national parks and jungles.

Trips and activities:

Malaysia offers the solo traveller a wealth of activities throughout the peninsular and Malaysia Borneo.

Here is a list of ideas.

Trekkingin the Cameron islands
Cultural trips around he capital KL
Visiting the virgin rainforests.
Learning to dive around Malaysia's islands

Links:

http://www.virtualtourist.com
http:// www.tourism.gov.my
http://www.geographia.com/malaysia

Check out the Solo Travel Malaysia budget travel calculator

WHY BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE?

We must understand that your vacation can take a year to save for, but only a second to ruin. While you can't do anything to prevent an unexpected storm from closing the airport, you can do something to help cover your travel investment-buy travel insurance.

Travel insurance can provide you coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage damage, and much more. Plus, with every international travel insurance plan you will also receive 24-hour travel assistance.

Here with i list out the company which can provide you international travel insurance:
http://www.travelguard.com/
http://www.globaltravelinsurance.com/
http://www.travelinsured.com/

Backpackers Hostels in Malaysia - The free information platform

Backpackers-Planet.com was born with the idea to create an international hostel address database, which is free-to-use for everybody. Every traveller has already remarked that it is a lot more difficult to get in direct contact with a hostel in a city by google.com than one could imagine because you will always fall back at online booking services. A booking service where I pay my hostel in advance even if I dont already know if I want to leave today or tomorrow.
This is how we want to differ from all the other already established pages:

- an international address database with only hostels and cheap Bed and Breakfasts and guest houses listed
- links for every city and country, giving the first directions for the traveller
- direct contact with hostels and companies
- free listing for hostels and companies, free using for everybody
- transparent organisation
- ads at minimum

About 16 Cities or District in Malaysia are listed for backpacker accommodation. Who the person or backpacker group interested to find out and to know about backpacker accommodation in Malaysia, you can browse through this URL :
http://www.backpackers-planet.com/backpackers-hostels-Malaysia-000277.html

Top 5 Backpackers Travel Tips

Are you thinking of going travelling or backpacking for an extended length of time? Are you worried about the prospect particularly if you are going alone?

• The little plastic containers that camera film comes in are excellent for storing things. The best use I found for them was salt and pepper holders.

• If you're a drinker, make sure you have your own wine/bottle opener! Sometimes you can get them as key rings. You'll never find one in a hostel cause they're constantly stolen.

• Always travel with a pack of cards. It's the best way to make friends and a lifesaver if you're staying in a hostel with no TV.

• A sarong has many uses. It acts as a tablecloth during a picnic. A wrap around if you've unfortunately managed to fry your legs to a crunchy crusty crisp in the midday sun. A belt that keeps your trousers up. A blanket to sit on while relaxing on the beach or in the park. Finally, my personal favourite, if you're lucky enough to get a bottom bunk, you can pin it under the mattress above so you get a little more privacy.

• Don't leave home without a journal. The scribbled stories from Singapore , tales from Thailand and memories of amazing people and places will be what you treasure when you're in your 50s. Think of it less as a journal or diary and more as the story of your travels. Your own little book!

Borneo Backpackers

Centrally located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Borneo Backpackers has already attracted the attention of discerning travellers from around the world. Some guests have already made return visits, and many more have vowed to return.

While guests originally come for the facilities on offer, such as clean bathroom, toilets, pantry area, internet facility, laundry, cosy lounge area, roof garden deck, 24 hours security, and a tour information counter. They return for the service from our friendly, helpful and knowledgeable local staff.


Shared Facilities:
* WI-FI Accessibility
* Common bathroom
* Self-catering pantry with refrigerator and microwave
* Free flow of filtered drinking water, tea and coffee
* Free Internet facility
* Free bed linen
* Bath towel available for rent
* Laundry service
* Cosy lounge area with wide selection of reading material, TV and ASTRO (Satellite TV)
* DVD player and in-house movies
* Open-air roof Garden Deck
* 24 hours security
* Tours Information Counter
* FREE Luggage Storage

CONTACT THEM :
Borneo Backpackers Sdn. Bhd.
No. 24 Lorong Dewan, 88801
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
Tel: 60 88 234 009 Fax: 60 88 233 688
E-mail: info@borneobackpackers.com
Website: www.borneobackpackers.com