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Some of the best ways to experience a country is on two wheels so why not take a spin around our very own backyard and explore Malaysia on a bicycle. As World Bicycle Day just passed on 3 June, there are five reasons why a bike is the best mode of transport and great cycling routes around Malaysia to save for later travel, courtesy of Agoda. 5 Reasons to get on your bike Get Closer to Nature According to Agoda’s Usage & Attitude Study 2019, Nature/Countryside is the top motivation for people to travel. Cycling gets you close to that with many cycle routes boasting and connecting scenic sights, nature parks and the countryside. Take in the sights at your own pace, hop on or off where you like, and quite literally stop to smell the roses. Unique Experiences Get to know a place, maybe even your own town or country, authentically; Traveling on two wheels allows you to easily navigate off the beaten track areas, go and stop where public transport might not take you , explore country lanes and tracks, meet the locals and experience travel from a different perspective. A Rewarding Workout With health being a key topic in 2020, who would mind some exercise and have fun while at it? There is even greater satisfaction and reward in the experience when you’ve put in the effort to pedal the distance. Eco-Friendly Keen to reduce your carbon footprint? More than 25% of travelers want to make more eco-friendly travel choices in the next decade, according to Agoda’s recent Next Decade Travel Trends research. Cycling is an affordable and eco-friendly way to get around. It is All in the Journey You know what they say about how it is the journey that matters. It could be a challenging route with hills and climbs or a few-hours family scenic cycle with the wind in your hair to a new part of town, traveling on a bicycle brings an incredible adventure from start to end. Pedal power routes across Malaysia From lovely beaches to historical towns, there is much to explore on bike in Malaysia beyond the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur. If you’re spending more than a day, check in at one of Agoda’s 39,000 properties in Malaysia . Solo or family and group travelers will be spoiled for choice with the wide range of hotels and Agoda homes and apartments. For families: Take the family on a fun educational and food adventure in historic Penang. Sundays are car-free days in Georgetown, an ideal time to experience this UNESCO Heritage site. Feel the sea breeze cycling past the clan jetties, go down the Georgetown heritage trail and spot traditional Peranakan architecture and iconic street art, and stopping at your convenience for some local street food. For cycling enthusiasts: Discover the beautiful Kiulu countryside on a cycling tour where you get to pedal across a suspension bridge and visit the riverside villages that are home to the hospitable Dusun tribal people. For nature lovers: Be sure to visit one of the oldest rainforests in the world at Selangor’s Forest Research Institute Of Malaysia (FRIM), where you can pick from a range of easy to challenging cycling trails. You might get to meet FRIM’s researchers along the way or spot what remains of an old Orang Asli settlement. Be it near or far, Malaysia is truly a stunning country with many hidden paths to discover. So instead of taking a car into town, why not just rent a bike and explore it from a different perspective? Stay safe!

5 Reasons Why You should Explore Malaysia on a Bicycle

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Laksa – a dish that is a pretty accurate presentation of Malaysia. All same same but different. At its core, it’s a much loved dish that can be eaten at all hours of the day and is basically a rich, hearty noodle soup made of fish (or chicken or spices) broth that has been boiled for hours and topped with a myriad of ingredients. I shall not even list down how laksa is on many international food list because Malaysians don’t need a list to tell us how good our food is. Much like our beloved country, the ingredients and cooking methods of laksa varies from each region of our country, bringing forth a confusion definition of what is laksa. We clear the air on what is laksa across Malaysia’s many states. SARAWAK LAKSA States of Origin: Sarawak, Sabah Photo Credit: Asian Inspirations Admitting to biasness here because this writer is from Kuching and absolutely loves her Sarawak Laksa. As did the dearly departed Anthony Bourdain. The Sarawak laksa comes with a shrimp belacan-based broth and contains no curry. It’s served with vermicelli rice noodles and shredded omelette, prawns and chicken strips as toppings. The broth boiled with more than 20 ingredients, giving it that complex, yet aromatic flavor that just entices the tastebuds. It’s no wonder that Mr. Bourdain once called the Sarawak laksa “breakfast of the gods”! Most cafes and kopitiams in Sarawak and even Sabah serves up a mean bowl of Sarawak Laksa daily so be sure to give it a try before you head out for your daily adventurous around east Malaysia. Sedunia Travel has tour packages to Kuching , Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan which will allow you to get your laksa fix while experiencing the less explored side of Malaysia. ASSAM LAKSA State of Origin: Penang Photo Credit: Craftlog The most well known laksa in Malaysia would be Asam Laksa. Originated from Penang, Asam Laksa is a fish-based noodle dish. This sweet, sour and spicy soup is made from shredded ikan kembung (mackerel fish), asam (tamarind), flavoured with shallots, turmeric, lemongrass and chillies. There is no coconut milk in its broth, which instead is made of fish and torch ginger flower. It is usually served with thick rice noodles and garnished with a salad of finely-sliced cucumber, lettuce, onion, mint, pineapple and red chillies. Occasionally, prawn/shrimp paste is served on the side (if in need of stronger flavour). This dish has many flocking to Penang Island regularly to get a taste of the authentic deal. Of course, you can also check out what the rest of this island state has to offer with this 4D3N tour of Penang , perfect for a long weekend getaway combined with some hardcore foodie adventure. NYONYA LAKSA State of Origin: Malacca Photo Credit: Seasalt with Food Also known as Laksa Lemak, Malacca’s signature laksa is rich in coconut gravy. Its fish-based broth embodies the creaminess of the coconut and brings out a sweet and strongly spiced flavour in its soup. As a result, you get a not-too-spicy broth that is often served with tau pok (bean curd puffs), taugeh (bean sprout), prawns and sliced fish cakes. Yes, it does look like Curry Laksa at first but then you would notice the hard-boiled eggs, cucumber slices and daun kesum (polygonum) garnish on the Nyonya Laksa, replacing Curry Laksa’s si ham (cockles). CURRY LAKSA States of Origin: Malacca, Johor but available in most states in Malaysia Photo Credit: Papparich Malaysia Since we’d already mentioned Curry Laksa, let’s talk about this spicy peranakan dish. Similar to the aforementioned Nyonya Laksa, the nationwide well-loved curry laksa is made of coconut milk, curry and accompanied by extra dollops of sambal chili paste and laksa leaf (coriander) for that extra kick. You will find prawns, chicken, tau pok, si ham and fish balls or cakes atop its yellow noodles or vermicelli rice noodles or even a mix of both. In Penang, curry mee is served with congealed pork blood! So popular is this laksa amongst Malaysians that you can find it readily available in most coffee shops, kopitiams, mamaks and restaurants in almost every city in Malaysia. JOHOR LAKSA State of Origin: Johor Photo Credit: Asian Inspirations The Johor Laksa is like the Assam Laksa save for a few unique differences due to its history and geographical differences. For one, the noodles used are spaghetti instead of your standard vermicelli rice. This unusual choice is believed to have originated from Sultan Abu Baker, the founder of Modern Johor and the first Malay ruler to have visited Europe. Because of his European trip, the Sultan acquired a love for pasta and decided to introduce it into local dishes. Apart from the pasta, Johor Laksa consists of coconut milk, dried prawns, lemongrass, kerisik, galangal and spices. Instead of a soupy-based broth, its consistency is also thicker, and usually served in a shallow plate. Also, don’t be surprised when you’re not served with cutleries, as you’re supposed to eat with your hands! Talk about a hands-on experience. LAKSAM States of Origin: Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah Photo Credit: Asian Inspirations Another type of coconut milk- and fish-based laksa is the laksam, uniquely served with flat, rice noodles. For its more chewy texture, the rice noodles are made of rice flour, rolled, flattened then steamed, and finally, cut into small bite-sized pieces. The toppings of various local herbs and shredded vegetables are served in separate bowls. Sometimes, it is even served with eels instead of fish! A dollop of sambal is a must! Like Johor Laksa, laksam is traditionally eaten with hands and something that you should try if you’re up for it. LAKSA UTARA State of Origin: Kedah Photo Credit: Masam Manis Laksa utara (northern laksa) or laksa Kedah is a dish of rice noodles in a fish-based asam-flavoured gravy, garnished with cucumber and onions, and fragranced with herbs like daun kesum (polygonum). The dominating sour asam (tamarind) notes and the sweetness of the fish differentiates this laksa from the rest. The secret ingredient to this dish is the freshest ikan kembung (mackerel) or ikan selayang (sardines) from the fishing villages along the coast of Kedah. Otak udang (prawn paste), coconut sambal and cili padi (bird’s eye chillies) are a must for more depth, flavour and spiciness. Photo Credit: Couple J Laksa’s versatility and its origins steeped in rich history makes it one fascinating story of how food unites diverse cultures and it continues to be an appealing dish across various ethnicities not just in Malaysia, but also in Southeast Asia today. Did we miss out on any variation of laksa? Tell us in the comment section below! If you’re planning a foodie trip around Malaysia, Sedunia Travel has you covered with variety of different domestic travel arrangements for 3D2N, 4D3N and more depending on your plans. You tell them and they can make it happen. For more information, log on to https://www.sedunia.com.my or email Sedunia Travel at contact@seduniatravel.com to book your next adventure around Malaysia. #inMYBackyard #seduniatravel Source: Pumpkin Cheeks

Time to Visit Malaysia’s States of Laksa

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Gold Coast stands out from many of Australia’s destinations for its long stretches of beaches, exciting combinations of theme parks and scenic sunset views. On one side, it hugs the South Pacific Ocean and on the other side looms mountains of hiking trails that crosses the Lamington National park. The city itself boast a laidback surfer’s paradise and its suburbs, an elaborate system of inland canals and waterways where the boating lifestyle has taken root. In other words, Gold Coast is the perfect escape for any Malaysian wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the cities like Kuala Lumpur, Melbourne and Sydney. If say, you only have 4 days to see what this sunny city has to offer, then let our itinerary take you through its adventurous side. Getting to Gold Coast We highly recommended flying overnight into Gold Coast to make the most of your trip. The flight from Kuala Lumpur to Gold Coast Airport (formerly known as Coolangatta Airport) takes about 8 hours 10 minutes. The airport itself is only 40 minutes from Surfers Paradise, the heart of Gold Coast’s city. DAY 1 - BEACH ESCAPE Begin your getaway at Broadbeach – the epitome of Aussie beach culture. With glamorous apartments, shops and bar centred around its Kurrawa Beach, you can start off your morning with a cup of coffee in hand as you stroll along Kurrawa Beach. Join in a beach yoga session near Pratten park or check out the Sunday markets nearby. Entrance Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Address: Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach QLD 4218, Australia Gold Coast is well known for over 70km of coastline to explore. Take your pick from Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, Kurrawa Beach, Mermaid Beach, Miami Beach, Burleigh Heads, Palm Beach and Kirra Beach, just to name a few. Be it just sunbathing, surfing or dipping in the cooling waters, a morning at Gold Coast’s beach can easily become a day there. Grab a Bite at Tupe-Aloha After a day at the beach, head to the local’s favourite post-surf hangout: Tupe-Aloha. Enjoy tasty Mexican food, wicked cocktails and tiki vibes and stay for the eccentric staff. Stack your table with a mix of their uber popular jalapeno poppers or Hokie Pokie (fresh, raw tuna with soy, wasabi mayo and ginger). And don’t forget to order a side of the curly fries. They are perfectly crispy and dusted with just the right amount of salt and a little hint of chilli.
Where: 1/1 Douglas Street, Kirra
When: 3pm – late (Monday to Friday); 12pm – late (Saturday and Sunday). Tip: At Tupe-Aloha, Taco Tuesdays (three tacos for just AUD10) is followed by 2-4-1 Burrito Wednesdays. Tuck in! DAY 2 – THEME PARK DAY! Wet’n’Wild Kick off a day of adventure and fun at Gold Coast’s Wet’n’Wild. The appeal of this aquatic playground is that there is an underpinning element of H20 for everyone. You have fast water slides, sudden drops into loops, epic waves to gentle, lazy rivers with donuts to sit on. It is a guarantee you will be soaked to the bone by the end of this trip. You can check out this blog post on how to conquer Australia’s biggest water park in a day. Entrance Fee: AUD79 (Adults) AUD74 (Kids 3 - 13 years old)
Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
Address: Pacific Motorway, Oxenford QLD 4210, Australia Warner Bros Movie World And right next door to Wet’n’Wild is Warner Bros Movie World. If you’re a fan of DC, Bug Bunny, Looney Toons and just crazy rollercoaster fun, then this theme park is a must. Warner Bros. Movie World is arguably the Gold Coast‘s most famed, and not only is it a particularly child-friendly way to spend the day, parents might just have some fun along the way too. Plan your afternoon around their daily parades of famous comic book characters such as Batman, the Flash and many more. Check out this post for a more detail rundown on how to do Movie World Gold Coast in a day. Entrance Fee: AUD99 (Adults) AUD74 (Kids 3 - 13 years old)
Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
Address: Pacific Motorway, Oxenford QLD 4210, Australia Tip: Book your tickets online or with your travel agent to save the hassle of queueing to get in as believe me, there will be a lot of people there. Buying the 3 Days multi-park-pass gives you even more value as it costs only AUD 139 with unlimited access to Wet’n’wild, Movie World and Sea World for three consecutive days. Dine at Hurricane’s Grill and Bar After a whole day at the theme parks, it is time to head back to Surfers Paradise for a bite at Hurricane’s Grill and Bar. Famed for the flamed grilled ribs and steaks, the restaurant offers beach front views and a relaxing tropical lounge bar to rest and chill while watching the sunset. Where: level 2/4-14 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia
When: 12 -10pm daily. Tip: Reservations are recommended due to the popularity of the place. DAY 3 – BACK TO NATURE SeaWorld Gold Coast With so much to see and do at SeaWorld Gold Coast, you need to plan your time carefully. There’s lots to cover, but Sea World’s famous educational marine life shows, featuring penguins, seals and dolphins are always popular, so get in early to snap up the best spot. Make a list of the attractions you want to visit and shows you want to see, so you don’t miss a thing. That way, you can easily jump from one to the other without wasting time looking at what’s on when. We have got six insider tips here for you to enjoy the most of Sea World Gold Coast , courtesy of Queensland Tourism. Entrance Fee: AUD89 (Adults), AUD79 (Kids 3 – 13 Years old)
Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm
Address: Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Gold Coast, Queensland 4217, Australia Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Pop on over to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to spend some time with the native Aussie wildlife. All 27 hectares of Currumbin rainforest is home to a variety of native creatures with open animal enclosures. You can get up close and feed kangaroos or cuddle koalas for an unforgettable experience. Half a day will just easily fly by here. As it is a non-profit organisation, all proceeds are channelled into its wildlife and conversation programmes. Entrance Fee: AUD40
Opening Hours: 930am – 5pm
Address: 28 Tomewin St, Currumbin QLD 4223, Australia Whale Watching Between June to November, humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Queensland. If you’re lucky, you can spot a whale or two completely FOC at the naturally elevated lookout points at Currumbin Rocks. Day 4 – Shop Shop Shop What’s a holiday without some shopping for souvenirs and Aussie’s famed chocolates? There are many shopping options in Gold Coast but we find the most fun one to shop at is Harbour Town. An open air shopping mall with factory outlets and retail for many well known brands such as Roxy, Cotton On and so on, you will be walking away with bargain steals and more. Opening Hours: 930am – 530pm (daily), 930am – 7pm (Thursday), 10am – 5pm (Sunday)
Address: 28 Tomewin St, Currumbin QLD 4223, Australia Gold Coast Transportation If you’re not planning to drive around Gold Coast, get the go explore Gold Coast card. It allows you travel on buses and trams all day until 3am at only AUD10 for adults and AUD5 for kids. Uber and cab services are also available in Gold Coast. However, if you’re planning to extend your visit beyond the city and into the surrounding areas and even to Brisbane, then we recommend hiring a car to allow for more flexibility. In groups of 3 – 4, it might even work out to be cheaper. Driving around Gold Coast is relatively easier than Melbourne or Sydney as the roads are pretty straight forward and easy to navigate. Gold Coast Itinerary Budget Breakdown (excl flights) Sedunia 4D3N Gold Coast Free and Easy Package incl: Accommodation, breakfast for 3 days and airport shuttle: RM668 Wet’n’ Wild, Movie World, Sea World Pass: AUD139 (RM417~) Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: AUD40 (RM120~) Transport*: AUD100 (RM300~) Food*: AUD200 (RM600~) Miscellaneous*: AUD100 (RM300~) Total: RM2,405 *Amount given is a rough estimate for a comfortable trip and is subjected to the traveller’s preferences and budget ~ AUD1 = RM3 This itinerary is great for a short quick trip to Gold Coast to take advantage of a long public holiday-weekend combo or as part of a longer, more adventurous trip around Queensland. Brisbane is just an hour’s drive or a train ride away, opening up more possibilities to explore what Queensland has to offer. Check out Sedunia Travel for more packages to Gold Coast and the rest of Queensland. For more travelinspiration, Queensland Tourism website offers a variety of activities and ideas to get your wanderlust flowing.

4D3N Gold Coast Theme Park Itinerary For Under RM2.5K (incl. Accom, Transport & Theme Park Passes)

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Experience Western Australia's Wonders Virtually

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The Japanese government is looking to revive the tourism industry, a key driver of the economy that has been battered by the novel coronavirus pandemic, by paying for people to go on vacation in the country. Under its Go To Travel initiative, the government will provide subsidies worth up to 20,000 yen per day for people going on leisure trips. The subsidies will cover half the cost of trips, distributed through a combination of steep discounts and vouchers to be used at nearby restaurants and shops. The initiative is expected to begin as early as late July, applying to bookings made through Japanese travel agencies or directly with hotels or "ryokan" traditional Japanese inns, though the cost of traveling to Japan will not be covered in any part. The government is eager to jump-start the world's third-largest economy, which was already flagging following a consumption tax hike last year before the coronavirus and emergency brought business activity to a halt. The tourism industry has been among the hardest hit as many Japanese have stopped going to the office, much less on vacation. Hopes for an influx of foreign visitors this summer were dashed as the Tokyo Olympics were postponed and Japan imposed an entry ban on more than 100 countries and regions. According to a survey by Tokyo Shoko Research, 31 companies in the accommodation business either declared or were preparing to file for bankruptcy in April because of the pandemic. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday lifted the state of emergency in Tokyo and the surrounding area as well as Hokkaido, having done so for the rest of the country earlier this month, signaling the start of the return to normal life. Some 1.35 trillion yen has been earmarked for the Go To Travel initiative, part of an emergency package that Abe has said will exceed 200 trillion yen. Updated: 27 May, 930pm - The state-run Go to Travel Campaign will slash 50 per cent off air, sea and land transport, and halve the costs of overnight stays. Covering these “big expenses” are vital to get people moving again, an agency staff member responsible for the campaign told TTG Asia. With no fixed end to the arrivals ban, the government is looking towards domestic travellers to inject some much-needed cash into travel agencies, hotels, attractions and eateries, following the lifting of its lockdown. So to clear the air here for those still plotting a trip to Japan in hopes of taking advantage of this, it's only for the local Japanese people. Source: Japan Today, TTG Asia

Japan to subsidize domestic travel to boost local tourism, not valid for international visitors

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Contributed by Yuni Kweh After this pandemic is over, my dream destination to travel to is Xi'an, China. You must be wondering why China of all place. Well, even though i have visited it once few years ago, I want to visit to Xi'an again because it's just so historical and beautiful. Xi'an is a place full of monuments and is one of the "Four Great Ancient Capitals of China" . To see the best of Xi'an, I would suggest travelling in April as it is the Mountain Peony season during which you would be able to see this delicate and lovely flower in full bloom. Xi'an is a large city and capital of Shaanxi Province in central China. Once known as Changan ( Eternal Peace), it marks the Silk Road's eastern end and was home to the Zhou, Qin, Han and Tang dynasties' ruling houses. At archaeological sites in Xi'an's surrounding plains are the famed Bingmayong (Terra Cotta Army) thousands of life-size, hand-molded figures buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Surrounding Xi'an's inner core is the Ancient City Wall, standing at 12m tall. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is an iconic, tapering Buddhist temple from the Tang Dynasty. The Muslim Quarter contains twisting lanes with shops, kebab houses and fruit stalls. It also includes the expansive, china-style Great Mosque, founded during the height of the Tang Dynasty in the year 742. The Stele Forest or Beilin Museum holds a large number of inscribed tablets including the Confucian classics. Outside Xi'an, another popular site is Han Yang Ling, Emperor Jingdi's mausoleum, containing Terra-Cotta soldiers, eunuchs and domesticated animals. Here are a few places I would recommend visiting when you're planning to travel to Xi'an: 1) Mount Hua Mount Hua is a mountain located near the city of Huayin in Shaanxi province, about 120 kilometres east of Xi'an. It is the western mountain of the Five Great Mountain of China, and has a long history of religious significance. 2) Yongxingfang Street Though Muslim Quarter is still the most popular food street in Xi'an, an increasing number of Xi'an people and domestic go to Yongxingfang Food Street to try typical Shaanxi food. If you want to see the bustling scenery, Muslim Quarter will be the first choice. If you want to try some Shaanxi food, I will recommend to the Yongxingfang area nearby East Gate of the City Wall. 3) Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Giant Wild Goose Pagoda was built in 652 during the Tang Dynasty & extensively renovated during Empress Wu ZeTian reign and in Ming Dynasty. The pagoda's main function was to house the Sutras and figurines of the Buddha that were brought to China from India by the Buddhist translator and traveler Xuanzang was later appointed by Emperor Gaozong to build the DaCi'en Temple with the pagoda inside the temple and invited monks to translate 1335 Sanskrit Sutras into China. 4) Drum Tower Of Xi'a The Drum Tower was built in 1380 during the Ming Dynasty where the drum was beat at sunset to indicate the end of the day. On first floor, many large drums are showcase in a hall, each decorated with intrinsic Chinese writing that symbolizes good fortune. The Muslim Quarter which offers plenty Hui Chinese Muslim food is located right beside Drum Tower. Xi'an is not only a place for Chinese people as even our Muslim friends are recommended to visit. You will find a lot of Halal restaurant, so Muslim can enjoy the local cuisine in Xi'an too with little worry. Check out Sedunia Travel to find out more about their China travel packages should Xi'an ever be on your bucketlist for next year!

Once Upon a Time in Xi'an

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Contributed by Geraldine Mills The lockdown worldwide is something that is uniting everyone all over the world. Aside from the fact that everybody is staying at home together, we are also combining in one other thing. That one other thing is our immense wanderlust all of a sudden. Even though the Malaysian government has since loosened the lockdown and has allowed people to return to work and businesses to open, interstate travel still isn’t permitted without a justifiable reason. And even Malaysians prefer to remain cautious and stay at home. It’s no surprise that two months into this lockdown measure, everybody's feeling a bit of cabin fever nowadays. However, you can still stave off your wanderlust at home in little ways. As much as possible, you should be staying at home so that you reduce the chances of you getting sick. Therefore, you should instead look for productive ways with which you can prepare for your next travel adventure while you're at home in lockdown instead. Luckily, the Internet is there to help you prepare for your next travel adventure. If you're ready to start developing plans for your next travel adventure, then here are five ways you can do that while at home. 1. Make a wanderlust mood board. If you are feeling a bit of wanderlust but don't know where you plan on going, then you can start by making a mood board that will help inspire you. There are plenty of free apps or websites such as Pinterest that can help you create your mood board for your future travel plans. A mood board is a visual collage of sorts that centralize around a specific idea. With a mood board, you can plan out several things. You can start window-shopping for luggage sets , and since not a lot of people are traveling nowadays, you might even find yourself a solid bargain on these. There's nothing that will make you want to visit more than if you have cute luggage sets with you. A mood board is especially great for creating visual representations of the places you in your travel bucket list. You can center your one mood board on a specific country, for example, and then put up photos or images of the activities that you want to do there. A wanderlust mood board will help you find an avenue to release your desire for travel. At the same time, the mood board will help you have a foundation for your itinerary before the journey itself. 2. Find off the beaten track adventures When you're preparing for your next travel adventure, you have more opportunities to research places that nobody has been to before. Before the lockdown, you usually just thought of the first place you wanted to travel to and then planned out your trip there. What this traveling usually entails is that you go to the most popular (and often crowded) places the country has to offer. However, what the lockdown should have taught you is that maybe you want to avoid crowds for a little bit. Perhaps it's time for you to start looking for places that are off the beaten path. If you want your next trip to feel like a real adventure, then going to fewer tourist traps is the way to go. 3. Scrub up on the local language When people travel to a foreign country for the first time, one of the things that people research first is the local language. However, with the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the learning stops there. When it comes time to start packing for your vacation there, you don't brush up on the local language as much as you should. Now that you have a lot more free time given the lockdown, you should be able to scrub up on the local language of the next non-English speaking country that you plan on visiting. At the very least, you should practice common phrases such as "thank you," "how much is it?" or "where is the bathroom?" 4. Research all the best places to eat, drink and stay Research is fundamental, no matter where you plan on traveling. If you do your research beforehand, you have an easier time planning out your itinerary. You also avoid being disappointed by the places you go to during your trip. On that note, one of the most important things that you should research beforehand is the best places to eat, drink, or stay. Researching the best places to eat and drink and stay during your travel there will help you stay on budget while having the best possible time. You can also find out which tourist traps are worth going to and which ones are a waste of money and time. 5. Experience virtual travel If you're craving travel right now, then there are a few modern alternatives available to you. One of the best ways you can "travel" today is through a virtual tour. There are plenty of virtual trips all over the world. From the Vatican to the Pyramids of Giza, if you want to travel the world in the comfort of your own home, then look for virtual tours available online . Final Thoughts The lockdown all over the world is tight for everyone. However, it is our responsibility, and the least we can do to help our front liners. It's also going to be a big help as the rest of the world heals from this phenomenon. At the very least, you can help prepare for your next adventure while at home to help you relieve that itch to travel. Stay safe, everyone, and remember to stay at home! About the writer
Geraldine Mills is a self-confessed wanderlust, with a passion not only for traveling but also for sharing her travel experiences and tips as a writer. She writes at Geraldine Walks so check it out for more travelspirations!

5 Productive Ways Malaysians can Use This Lockdown to Prepare for Their Next Travel Adventures

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Qatar Airways has further enhanced its onboard safety measures for passengers and cabin crew. The airline is implementing several changes, including the introduction of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) suits for cabin crew while onboard, as well as a modified service that reduces interactions between the passengers and the crew inflight. Cabin crew have already been wearing PPE during flights for a number of weeks, including gloves and face masks. Cabin crew will wear the PPE suit over their uniforms in addition to safety goggles, gloves and a mask to provide even greater reassurance to customers in addition to enhanced hygienic measures already in place. The airline now requires passengers from Monday, May 25, to wear face coverings inflight and recommends people bring their own for fit and comfort purposes. The airline has also applied other additional health and safety measures onboard its flights, Business Class meals will be served on a tray instead of a table set up, and a cutlery wrap will be offered to passengers as an alternative to individual cutlery service, in an effort to reduce contact between the crew and the passengers. While in Economy Class, all meals and cutlery are served sealed as usual. Additionally, large bottles of hand sanitiser will be placed in the galleys and made available for both cabin crew and passengers. All social areas onboard the aircraft have also been closed to observe social distancing measures. Passengers flying Business Class can avail of the enhanced privacy the Qsuite provides include sliding privacy partitions and fully closing doors creating a private sanctuary. Passengers can also opt to the ‘Do Not Disturb (DND)’ indicator in their private suite, if they wish to limit their interactions with the cabin crew. Its aircraft are regularly disinfected using cleaning products recommended by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Its home airport, Hamad International Airport, has also invested in deploying disinfectant robots, fully autonomous mobile emitting concentrated UV-C light known to be effective in eliminating majority of infectious microorganisms. Qatar Airways’ aircraft feature the most advanced air filtration systems, equipped with industrial-size HEPA filters that remove 99.97% of viral and bacterial contaminants from re-circulated air, providing the most effective protection against infection. All the airline’s onboard linen and blankets are washed, dried and pressed at microbial lethal temperatures, while its headsets are removed of ear foams and rigorously sanitized after each flight. These items are then sealed into individual packaging by staff wearing hygienic disposable gloves. Meal service utensils and cutlery are washed with detergents and rinsed with demineralized fresh water at temperatures that kill pathogenic bacteria. Cabin crew have received training on how to minimise their chances of contracting or spreading the infection, are thermally screened before the departure of flights and after their arrival, and are quarantined and tested if any colleagues or passengers on a flight shows any symptoms of infection or test positive for the virus. In addition, Qatar Airways has revised its distribution of cabin crew on flights, sending two groups on short-haul and medium-haul flights – the first to manage the outbound trip, the second to manage the inbound trip. For long-haul flights, crew members who have to stay overnight in a foreign city can only travel in Qatar Airways-approved transport and must remain in their rooms, limiting human interactions. In terms of passengers, Qatar Airways is encouraging social distancing where possible, especially on flights with lighter loads. Distancing is also implemented during the boarding process, ensuring passengers are allocated seats far apart from each other. The airline is also encouraging passengers to follow hygiene practices recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), such as regular hand washing and refraining from touching the face. A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was named ‘World’s Best Airline’ by the 2019 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation Skytrax. It was also named ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’, ‘World’s Best Business Class’, and ‘Best Business Class Seat’, in recognition of its ground-breaking Business Class experience, Qsuite. It is the only airline to have been awarded the coveted “Skytrax Airline of the Year” title, which is recognised as the pinnacle of excellence in the airline industry, five times. Source: Qatar Airways press release

Qatar Airways Introduces Additional Safety Measures Onboard For Passengers And Cabin Crew

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There is a famous saying in Japan that goes, “You’re wise to climb Mt. Fuji once, but a fool to climb it twice.” Mt Fuji is Japan's most iconic feature with its perfectly symmetrical cone form that borders two prefectures and can be spotted even from Tokyo on a good day. Every year, July to mid September is the official climbing season for those wanting a glimpse of sunrise atop Mt Fuji. It's estimated that in 2019, around 236,000 people climbed Mt Fuji. However this year, there will be no first and second times for climbers. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the hiking trails will remain closed throughout the summer. On Monday, the government of Shizuoka Prefecture, one of the two prefectures by which Mt. Fuji can be accessed, said that they will be keeping Shizuoka’s three hiking trails that lead to the top of the mountain closed throughout the summer. Under normal conditions, the trails would have been open to the public during Mt. Fuji’s official climbing season, which this year was scheduled to run from July 10 to September 10. In response to the pandemic, though, the decision was reached to keep the trails closed. The closure affects the Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya trails, all of which start at “fifth stations” half-way up Japan’s tallest mountain. Shizuoka’s decision comes after Yamanashi, the other Fuji-adjacent prefecture, already announced that it will not be opening its Yoshida Trail, that leads to the peak, this summer, meaning that all four paths to Mt. Fuji’s summit will be closed. While alpine slopes with the boundless sky above may not spring to mind when thinking of places likely to be hotbeds of airborne virus transmission, Mt. Fuji’s popularity as a travel destination, combined with a relatively narrow window in which ascents are allowed, can create human traffic jams as hikers stand around in close proximity waiting for their turn to walk on narrow sections of the trails . There’s also the fact that the most common Mt. Fuji itinerary is to time your hike so that you draw near to the peak late at night, spend a couple hours sleeping in a communal room in a small mountain hut among a large group of strangers, then arrive at the top just in time to see the sunrise. That kind of close, extended proximity to others isn’t something Shizuoka and Yamanashi want people exposed to, so the trails will be remain closed, and before anyone starts thinking about just hiking up during the off-season, bear in mind that for as gentle and inviting as Mt. Fuji’s slopes may look from afar, a misplaced step can lead to lethal consequences with shocking speed , especially near the top or in cold-weather conditions. The Shizuoka government has yet to reach a decision as to whether or not access roads to the mountain’s various fifth stations, where the trails start, will remain open while the trails are closed. “This summer I would invite people to enjoy taking photos of Mt. Fuji,” said Shizuoka governor Keita Kawakatsu, “composing haiku about it, or gazing at it from afar.” We’d add munching on a slice of Mt. Fuji bread to the list of alternatives, while taking the extra time to maybe plan a sea-to-summit hike for 2021 using these bilingual maps . Source: NHK News Web

Mt. Fuji Climbing Season Officially Cancelled this Year

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As with 2019, East Asia dominated this year's World Airport Awards, with seven of the top 10 airports for 2020 based in the region -- including four in Japan. While we continue to dream of when we can actually fly in and out of them again, the world's top aviation hubs for 2020 have been revealed at the annual Skytrax World Airport Awards recently. The awards, voted for by customers in a global airport customer satisfaction survey, were originally scheduled to take place on April 1 at the Passenger Terminal Expo in Paris, which was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Instead, the 2020 award announcements were made on May 10 through a virtual ceremony that took place live on YouTube. And in what will come as a surprise to virtually no one, Singapore Changi Airport has for the eighth year in a row been crowned the "World's Best Airport." Tokyo Haneda Airport earned second place and Doha's Hamad International Airport rose to the number three spot. "Having deferred the award announcements for nearly six weeks, we felt it was now right to try and bring some cheer into the airport industry in these difficult times," said Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, in a statement. The World's Top 10 Airports of 2020 1. Singapore Changi Airport 2. Tokyo Haneda Airport 3. Hamad International Airport (Doha, Qatar) 4. Incheon International Airport (South Korea) 5. Munich Airport (Germany) 6. Hong Kong International Airport 7. Narita International Airport (Tokyo) 8. Chūbu Centrair International Airport (Nagoya, Japan) 9. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport 10. Kansai International Airport (Osaka, Japan) According to Skytrax, customers from more than 100 different countries participated in the survey, which was conducted from September 2019 to February 2020 and covers 550 airports. Singapore's win was practically guaranteed. The April 2019 opening of the Jewel Changi Airport , a multi-use complex designed to connect three of Changi Airport's four terminals, bolstered the hub's already impressive array of offerings. Jewel's star attraction is the 40-meter-tall (around 130 feet) HSBC Rain Vortex, which cascades through a huge oculus in the middle and is billed as the world's tallest indoor waterfall. Though Tokyo Haneda might have been bested by Singapore's Changi in the main "World's Best Airport" category, it did snag the "World's Best Domestic Airport" and "World's Cleanest Airport" prizes. Also in Japan, Osaka's Kansai International Airport was awarded "World's Best Airport Staff Service," Chūbu Centrair International Airport in Nagoya got the "World's Best Regional Airport" prize and Tokyo's Narita International Airport was awarded "World's Best Airport Dining." Moving to South Korea, Incheon International Airport's T2 won the "World's Best Airport Terminal" award. Singapore's Crown Plaza Changi Airport once again was awarded "World's Best Airport Hotel" and Hong Kong International Airport won the "World's Best Airport Immigration" prize. Outside of Asia, the award for "World's Most Improved Airport" went to Paris Orly Airport, while London Heathrow Airport was awarded "World's Best Airport Shopping" and Houston Airports won the "Best Airport Website & Digital Services" award. For the full list of winners, visit the Skytrax World Airport Awards website . Or you can watch the ceremony here: Source: Skytrax, CNN

Skytrax reveals the World's Best Airports for 2020

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Comprising Hong Kong-based luxury hotel brands including Harilela Hotels, The Langham Hotels & Resorts, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, Swire Hotels, The Peninsula Hotels, and Wharf Hotels, the Heritage Tourism Brands group has launched a promotional video to showcase the beauty and diversity of Hong Kong as it emerges from the coronavirus crisis.
“Our group, which also includes Cathay Pacific, decided to come together at a time of unprecedented crisis for the travel industry in Hong Kong in the second half of 2019,” said Dr Jennifer Cronin, President of Wharf Hotels and Chair of Heritage Tourism Brands. “We all come from different backgrounds, but we are all hoteliers who share a great love and passion for Hong Kong. It is our desire to do whatever is in our power to revive Hong Kong tourism, at home and overseas at the appropriate time and when people feel safe again. We felt it was time to take fast action, not as competitors, but as a joint force in the private sector, with a common objective which is to restore confidence in the vibrancy and stability of our home, Hong Kong. Now, as we emerge from COVID-19, this objective is even more relevant,” said Dr Cronin.
As a first step, the group is launching a video to inspire local Hong Kong people with the objective of showcasing the city in all its beauty and diversity, to encourage people to enjoy their home and appreciate what makes it unique. The video entitled “Our Home”, features the song “Touch of Love” donated by Hong Kong singer Jacky Cheung. “Hong Kong is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with incredible scenery – from mountains, country parks, city skylines and beaches. It is an efficient and dynamic world-class city yet has spectacular natural beauty and we wanted to put together a video that portrays the city in its best light. We recognise that people cannot travel yet, and they may not wish to travel for the next few months, and therefore our objective is to bring the city together and highlight the amazing attractions that we can enjoy on our own doorstep,” said Dr Cronin. The Heritage Tourism Brands group is also planning to introduce inspiring experiences for local residents, and regional travellers when travel restrictions are lowered featuring a variety of cross-hotel collaborations, in partnership with other major Hong Kong attractions.
Sedunia Travel has a selection of travel packages to Hong Kong should it be on your next destination bucketlist. Find out more at https://seduniatravel.com/holidays/hong-kong/

Heritage Tourism Brands' New Video Showcases Hong Kong's Beauty and Diversity

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Some of us get our travel inspiration from books, movies and things we see on a daily basis. Some of us want to travel because we want to relax and getaway, regardless of where the destination. And some of us inherits our wanderlust from our parents. These parents are the ones who won't be stopped by age and retirement only serves to allow them more time to explore the world. They are the true YOLO generation, having worked hard and saved up for their travels. So why not show your appreciation for your parents by empowering them for their travels with these meaningful gift ideas. And if in the process, this wins you more bonus points over your siblings, why not? ;) If you're the only child, then feel free to refer to this list for ideas! Because ultimately, we just want to show our parents our gratitude! 1. Batik Passport Cover Let's start off simple. A passport cover is the ideal gift for anyone attached to their passports. What more by giving your parents two different coloured passport covers, they can say goodbye to mixing up their passports while protecting it from external factors. These batik passport covers are made by local artisans and is available at Butik Boutique . 2. Smartphone Lens Kit Save packing space without compromising on photos with a versatile Smartphone Lens Kit. Most of these lens kits come equipped with wide angle, zoom, 15x macro, portrait and even a marble effect lens. Not only are you saving luggage space and weight for your parents, you're also helping them capture unforgettable memories of a lifetime. Available on Lazada and Shopee. 3. Scratch It Off Travel Map Keep fueling their wanderlust with a Scratch It Off Travel map, a practical gift for the ever active globetrotter. Not only does it add some personality to a room, it also acts as a checklist to remind them where they have been and what has yet to be discovered! Available on Lazada and Shopee.
3. Two-Way Translator With a language barrier, it can be hard to figure out where you’re going or what you’re ordering. Take their travel experience to the next level and help make communication smoother with this Pocketalk, a portable, AI-powered instant voice translation device that breaks down language barriers and bridges the gap between different spoken languages. This one device and a must have for travellers supports 74 languages and counting! Available at Tsunago. 4. Travel Packing Cubes Source: Says
Staying organized is key to making a trip feel like a vacation. Packing for a trip can be a huge pain. Things get disorganized, and you could end up ripping apart your whole suitcase now to find that one shirt. Instead, organize everything quickly and efficiently with travel packing cubes. Your parents won't be having on holiday arguments about where their clothes are with these. Available on Lazada and Shopee. 5. The Gift of Travel Of course, the ultimate gift to get for your parents is to put them on a plane and send them on an unforgettable adventure - all expenses paid by you. Collect experiences, not things” – put this mantra into gift-form with a quick weekend trip to one of Malaysia's magical island getaways. A 3D2N weekend trip to Pulau Redang cost only RM389 if booked with Sedunia Travel and covers accommodation, meals and return boat transfer. If you're feeling really generous and in debt to your parents (and ultimately one-up your siblings), you can book entire package vacation with Globus or Cosmos via Sedunia Travel . Sedunia Travel has many travel destinations waiting for you and simply with a call or an email, you could be very well on your way to planning that dream holiday for you and your loved ones - be it in Malaysia, Japan, Switzerland, Russia or even Antarctica! So log on to their official website . But at the end of the day, what matters to your parents is that you are there with them, spending precious time with them as a family. No matter what gift you or your siblings give them, it's the thought that counts.

5 Gift Ideas for Your Globetrotting Parents (& to one-up your siblings while you're at it)

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It would be a shame not to bring yourselves wander in this historical town once you are already in Selangor. One attention-grabbing fact is that the name Selangor itself was originated from the famous river here! There are a number of historical attractions for you to explore in this town where many villages are still kept in their original state and has been maintained throughout the years. Kuala Selangor is now reputed as one of the must-visit Districts when looking for an easy day trip from the city. 8.00 a.m. : Fill your morning energy at Auntie Foo Café What a better way to start your morning by recharging yourselves at the famous local kopitiam , the Auntie Foo Café. With a variety of food choices, make sure not to miss out on their scrumptious tuna toast, half boiled eggs as well as their refreshing vegetable juice! Located near the Malawati Hill, it surely is hard to miss! 9.00 a.m. : Take a boat ride to witness the splendid Sky Mirror There are tons of ways to loosen up and have some fun while you’re in Kuala Selangor. Head over to the jetty and take the 30 to 45 minutes’ boat ride to the beautiful panoramic view of the Sky Mirror. Here, you will feel as if you are taken to a whole new dimension of complete beauty and serenity. Famously known as an island with a mirror-like reflection of the sky, Sky Mirror is considered as one of a travel hot spots in Kuala Selangor. 12.00 p.m. : Enjoy Selangor’s local dish at Warung Ibu Nasi Ambeng If you are hunting for the best local food in town, don’t forget to stop by Warung Ibu Nasi Ambeng! Serving you with its signature dish the Javanish Nasi Ambeng, a local favourite and everything else on the menu that is unquestionably worth the try! 1.00 p.m. : Visit the Sri Shakti Dhevasthanam Temple Exploring the whole town without visiting the Sri Shakti Temple in Kuala Selangor would be a total waste! Explore what was believed to be the only temple in the world with 51 Shaktis of Manifestations installed. The design and architecture of the temple itself best describes the Indian culture and beliefs and witnessing it first-hand will be jaw-dropping! 2.00 p.m. : Tour around the significant Malawati Hill When it comes to prominent historical sites, do not leave out Malawati Hill from your travel itinerary! Amidst all other various attractions around, hop on the tram to explore the whole area. As you reached to the top, you will be welcomed by the breath-taking view of Kota Malawati! Also, don’t forget to stop by the popular Lighthouse and Historical Museum nearby while you are there! 3.30 p.m. : Shop at the great Kuala Selangor Agro Bazaar Many can agree that the best part of travelling is, food hunting. When you are travelling to Kuala Selangor, stop by and discover the glorious Agro Bazaar to bring home some of their best-selling local food sold here such as the delicious Bahulu panas and Ikan kering . 4.40 p.m. : Chill out at Café Lumiere If you are a coffee enthusiast, Café Lumiere is the place for you! Offering you with mouth-watering, tantalizing dishes like their handmade lasagna, French recipe chicken as well as their homemade cheesecake, it will totally leave you wanting more! Surrounded with aesthetically pleasing interior along with a comfortable place to chill, you can take your loved ones here anytime! 5.40 p.m. : Wander around Remis Beach What’s more calming than having a casual walk at the beach in the evening. Take this opportunity and step into Remis Beach that will truly sweep you away with its amazing view! Not only is it a great spot for you to relax, you can also carry various activities here such as picnicking, flying kites and collecting seashells. There are also stalls that are open on weekends for you to experience the local culture on the beach of Kuala Selangor. 6.40 p.m. : Be blown away with an array of selection of seafood at River View Seafood Restaurant Calling out all seafood lovers! You do not want to exclude the best seafood restaurant in town from your checklist. Feast on some fresh and delicious seafood that are packed with flavours at River View Seafood Restaurant that is situated in Pasir Penambang. Serving you with their signature dishes such as the Aroma Dry Chili Crab and Buttered Prawns, you will definitely come back for more. 8.00 p.m. : Experience the glittering lights of the Kuala Selangor fireflies at night. Witness the extraordinary fireflies lighting up the dark rivers at night! There are thousands of fireflies that glow for you to see and the only way to catch this memorable moment is by getting on a traditional sampan on the Selangor rivers. Truly a scenic view. Step into this historical town of Kuala Selangor where you will be taken to countless exciting attractions that you don’t want to miss! For a joyous and mind-boggling trip, be sure to plan your visit to all of the places recommended in the itinerary and trust us, you won’t be disappointed! For more information, visit Selangor.Travel and to plan your travel itinerary, get in touch with Sedunia Travel .

1-Day off the Beaten Track Itinerary in Kuala Selangor

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The quiet town of Taiping, Perak is not a common stop for those going north of Kuala Lumpur. Its neighbouring town, Ipoh tends to get most of the attention for its food affair. But recently, Taiping Zoo's resident tiger, Baby has given us three absolutely adorable reasons to make this sleepy town a day stopover once domestic travel is permitted. Born on 12 April 2020 amidst a global pandemic, Baby's three new cubs offer a small ray of good news that reminds us that we can still look forward to visiting our local zoos once it's safe again. Zoo director Dr Kevin Lazarus said the three cubs and their 11-year-old mother were all doing fine and in stable condition. “The cubs are estimated to weigh between 700g and 900g but we have yet to determine their sex. The cubs, which have yet to be named, will remain with their mother, whom zookeepers call Baby, for 18 months," “They will be weaned off their mother’s milk when they are between three and four months. “We will continue to monitor them regularly to ensure their well-being and safety.” Dr Lazarus said it was the fourth birth of Malayan tigers at the zoo since 2009. Baby too was born at Taiping Zoo. Dr Lazarus said the Malayan tiger, categorised as critically endangered by the Union for Conservation of Nature, could live up to 20 years. “The zoo will continue its efforts to breed, preserve and educate about the wildlife in the country, ” he added. Taiping Zoo and Night Safari is the only zoo in the north of Peninsular Malaysia and has embarked on an expansion programme which see the building of a new Open Concept animal enclosure. It takes into consideration the natural habitat of the respective animal to keep them relax and comfortable. Furthermore, attempts to breed their animals have been very successful. This has seen the proliferation of such animals like the Malaysian tiger, lion, siamang, deer, nilgai, night heron and many others. If there was one stop to make if you're on the way to Penang or even to Ipoh, then let it be Taiping Zoo and Night Safari. Information Zoo Hours: 8:30am - 6pm Prices: RM16 (adults), RM8 (children age 3- 12, senior citizens 60 and above) Safari Hours: 8pm - 11pm RM20 (adults), RM10 (children age 3- 12, senior citizens 60 and above) Head on over to Sedunia Travel to check out more local destinations.

3 Adorable Reasons to Visit Taiping, Perak

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Wall's X Tealive: Malaysia's first Boba Ice Cream

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