Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia



Kuala Lumpur was not one of my favorite destinations to visit, but I managed to enjoy my time here and was glad I visited Malaysia.  I figure I had to come to see Kuala Lumpur being I was in Singapore and just transit through.

I spent two nights in Kuala Lumpur.  This city is not quite as friendly, safe, or easy to get around in like Singapore or Bali, but it is good to see.  I really enjoyed the Malaysian food and they have lots of nice restaurants in Kuala Lumpur.  Shopping is also very good in Kuala Lumpur if you are a shopaholic.  I love to eat and try different foods and shop around so this alone made my trip enjoyable.

My favorite highlights of coming to Kuala Lumpur was China Town and Batu Caves. Batu Caves is a limestone hill with a series of caves with built-in temples in the Gombak District, north of Kuala Lumpur.  This is one of the most famous Hindu shrines outside of India and is the site for the famous Thaipusam Hindu Festival in Malaysia.

I really liked Kuala Lumpur’s China Town on Petaling Street, it is one of the best China Towns I have been to so far.  So don’t miss the China Town here.  Get all things cheap here; t-shirts, perfumes, clothes, shoes and a million other things, including all your favorite knock-off brands.  I also really enjoyed my visit to Batu Caves, this is a must when you come to Kuala Lumpur.  Alleged to have the world's tallest Murugan statue.  It is a long hike up many, many steps to the top of the cave, and you will need to take breaks along the way.  But don’t worry, there are monkeys galore everywhere to entertain you during your ascend up.  But once you get to the top and in the cave, it is a so peaceful and quiet, so no monkeying around inside the cave.

Some other main things to do and see are the Petronas Twin Towers and the K.L. Tower, which is the tallest tower in Asia and the 4th largest in the world which has a revolving restaurant.  Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, it is suppose to be the world's largest aviary.  I did not see it but I hear it is a must to visit.  Don’t forget to checkout Berjaya Times Square, this place is shopper’s paradise.  My hotel was right around the corner from here, and this is a nice area to stay in.   They have it all, from every kind of store you could imagine, massage areas, bars and nightclubs, the real K.L.  Berjaya Times Square has it all for the young and old, the young for sure, or the young at heart.



Saturday, January 5, 2013

Singapore



Singapore is nice place to stop for a few days on transit.  A few days is plenty to see it all in Singapore .  A cultural melting pot, world-class tourist destination, and colorful cultures allure visitors from far and wide.  Singapore assails the senses of the first time visitor.

One of the most prominent features of Singapore is its cleanliness, this city is immaculate, and indeed, its many regulations, has made it one of the world’s safest places to visit, and serious crimes are extremely low.  The visitor is spoiled for choices of things to see and do.  It boasts museums and river tours, plentiful greenery, a vibrant nightlife, a rich cultural mix, and a whole planet's worth of culinary experiences.

Rapid development over the years, Singapore tourism has acquired world-renowned status.  A holiday in Singapore offers the tourists with a unique, pleasant experience.  Singapore has constantly been an appealing destination for shoppers and food lovers of all kind.

The weather remains tropical almost all through the year, and because of warm temperatures, the city features a year-round high humidity and rainfall.  When it comes to planning a Singapore holiday, winter season, ranging from October to March, is considered the best time.  Cool weather and festive atmosphere, you will have unforgettable memories during this time.

Sentosa Island is the center of attraction for vacationers in Singapore .  Along with splendid scenic beaches, this city has plenty tourist places like the Under Water World, Singapore Botanic Garden , Resort World Casino, Universal Studios Theme Park and much more. The Singapore River is also a tourist hub with hundreds of bars and night clubs nearby. Apart from that, Singapore Zoo is a good selection for families to visit.  Moreover, one can head to the Night Safari, Chinatown and Chinese Gardens to have more fun and enjoyment.



Thursday, January 3, 2013

Bali, Indonesia


I have been to some of the most amazing, spectacular places around the globe, and Bali tops the list.  My friends and colleagues ask me, “Is Bali really paradise, is it really that nice” and I say “YES”.  I was in awe when I arrived here and the locals were really friendly.  During my time I rented a motor bike and the driver took me around to all the tourist spots.  My recommendation, forget the car and rent a motor bike and see this magical island with the wind blowing through your face and hair.  Why be stuck in some car, boringgggggggg.  This is one beautiful place so everything from the outside is better.

I was walking from breakfast on my second day here and happened to find someone with a sign on his bike, “rent my bike” so I negotiated a price for a few days and I had the time of my life.  It is cheaper and more authentic then finding some over-priced tour group on the island and being stuck to a particular agenda.  This place is swarming with motor bikes, so it should not be a problem hiring a local.  The picture above, my bike I rented during my time in Bali.

Bali, not only is it a gorgeous place with its lush greenery, clear skies and sparkling blue waters, but there is also a wealth of things to do in Bali. The best part about Bali is that it caters to everyone, and perfect for honeymooners.  The weather is phenomenal and it just feels like heaven on earth.

There are an abundance of villas and places to stay in Bali, and a private villa is the most exquisite way to vacation in Bali. With a private villa or the traditional tropical Bali resort, you get a chance for the ultimate in rest and relaxation and the tranquility is insurmountable.  Many of the private villas in Bali boast a pool along with private beach access, so you will not have to go far for some much needed time in paradise.

When in Bali, there are also many areas that are great for shopping.  The shopping in Bali will astound and amaze you with all the items that you will be able to find.  The feel is superbly tropical and you will definitely have the feeling that you are “away from it all” which is truly what is supposed to feel like.

The greatest part about Bali is that you can truly feel isolated and away from it all or you can choose to be social in many of the truly magnificent dining arenas, bars and nightclubs, which are in abundance.  This place is rocking with bars and nightclubs, at least where I stayed in the Kuta Beach area.  Kuta Beach is one of the most popular places to stay in Bali, but if you really want to get away from it all, some vacationers choose to stay in Ubud, which is another option.  Bali is charming, traditional, romantic, and beautiful, what could be better.  It truly is paradise !