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Whenever I travel, I always play Malaysia’s little
ambassador to new people I meet. The excited looks on their faces when I tell
them why they should visit Malaysia are priceless. Plus, the country is very
affordable to explore if you know the drill.
Normally, tourists will have the Petronas Twin Towers, KL
Tower, Batu Caves and Chinatown in their mind. Those are the popular
attractions but Malaysia has a lot more to offer. Thus, I will (virtually)
bring you to see some other parts of Malaysia, on a budget!
Putrajaya
If you love photography or just an architecture lover, you
cannot miss this administrative centre of Malaysia. You will go “oohh” and
“aahh” admiring the beautiful buildings. The majestic Prime Minister's Office--the
Perdana Putra, Putra Mosque, Putrajaya International Convention Centre, Palace
of Justice, and Seri Wawasan Bridge are some of the many great architecture to
behold.
Putra Mosque
Perdana Putra
Wait till it’s dark. The city offers a breathtaking view when the lights are on.
Perbadanan Putrajaya complex
Because of this, night runs in Putrajaya are famous too. Never missed participating since I started joining the running bandwagon (well that's another story to share).
Good news is, it's quite near to the LCCT (Low Cost Carrier
Terminal). So, you can head there straight after you’ve landed. There is a
feeder bus to KLIA and from there, hop onto the KLIA Transit. Putrajaya is just
a station away. From there, you can take the Nadi Putra bus which operates
around the city. When you're done, head back to the station and you will reach
KL within half an hour. Total ‘RM’ spent is less than RM20!
Genting Highlands
Now who doesn’t love a cool, breezy sunny afternoon?
Malaysia has a hot and humid weather all year round so if you want to escape
that for a while, head to Genting Highlands for a change of climate. Head
to ‘Snow World’ at First World Plaza for a winter experience! But that's not
the only attraction in Genting Highlands. This place just spells fun!
The flying coaster
There are the outdoor and indoor theme parks to explore, with attractions ranging from kiddy rides to the adrenaline pumping ones. You also get to feel how it's like to be able to fly with Asia's one and only wind tunnel. The excitement doesn't end there. You may enjoy the cinema, bowling, shopping or if you have a little more budget and you think lady luck is on your side, try spinning some money at the casino, the only gambling area in Malaysia.
You can reach Genting Highlands from LCCT by Aerobus for
only RM35 per way. Another option, if you are from KL, get a package from
Go Genting at KL Sentral. For RM47, the package includes return bus transfer,
return cable car ride and the entrance to its outdoor theme park! But if you
are too scared to take on the challenge of the roller coasters, you have a
choice to enjoy the buffet lunch at one of the restaurants. Sounds like a good
deal, no?
Malacca
Next, let's go down south to this historical state of
Malaysia. I spent seven years of my life studying in this state, from high
school to getting my degree. You wouldn't want to know all the excuses I made
just to go back to KL. But true as what people say, you will miss something
when it's gone. After graduation, I miss Malacca so much! Once, my friends and
I drove to Malacca for a day trip just to do some sight-seeing and eat!
Well, it's not difficult to get there. It's 2-hour drive
from Kuala Lumpur or you can take bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan. Buses to
Malacca are abundant and frequent. The fare is only RM12.30, cheap eh?
Jonker Walk along Jonker Street
Once you're there, the happening Jonker Street is a must-go. Mind you, the street is more alive at night and on weekends. Every time I visit Malacca, this is the one place I never miss to visit. You can find unique souvenirs from the many stalls and antique shops. Also, try the mouth-watering ‘Cendol’ *salivating*. Ahh...writing this makes me want to go there right now!
Just a short distance from Jonker Street are the Dutch
Square, Stadthuys, A’ Famosa Fort, and Menara Taming Sari. Don’t forget to
check out the Malacca River cruise. Most of the attractions are free or with
just a minimal ticket fee.
The Dutch Square
A’ Famosa Fort
After all that sightseeing, savour all these yummylicious dishes--‘Asam Pedas’, ‘Chicken Rice Ball’ or ’Cendol’, which caused my expanding waistline during my student days. Sheeshhh...
So now you know you don't have to fork out a
fortune to enjoy this country. What are you waiting for then? Your budget trip
starts with low fare flights which you can only find with AirAsia.
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