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Australia, a continent known for its natural wonders, has an island state south of Melbourne called Tasmania (affectionally known as Tassie) that appeals to a diverse crowd seeking to connect with the great outdoors, and create deep memories that sustain long after their trip. Nature lovers will marvel at its rustic landscapes, food and wine followers will be tantalised by the freshest and most interesting produce and chefs, culture buffs will be challenged to deepen their knowledge and photographers will be inspired to expand their horizons. With just a population of 500,000, the island of Tasmania is as intimate as it is beautiful. Meet its Main Cities Tassie’s capital city of Hobart, stands out amongst other Australian cities for not having skyscrapers and towering buildings, instead fostering a cultural hub with its historical Georgian buildings, with former warehouses and port buildings converted into small restaurants, cafes and shops. Just three hours up north from Hobart is Launceston – a city meshing well-preserved Colonial and Victorian architecture and century old parks with its unique natural setting. Launceston is also the gateway to the island’s upper region and its hidden treasures. Whether you start your trip from Hobart or Launceston, there are so many things to do see and do. Visitors can travel along beach-lined coasts for a fun-filled surf day or venture into World Heritage-listed mountain areas, all within several hours drive from one another. Along the way, experience a true-blue farm to table experience with farmers, distilleries, wineries and restaurants that highlights fresh local produce. Below are five ways you can enjoy Tasmania. 5 Ways to Enjoy Tasmania 1. Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries and Conservation Areas With a plethora of habitats ranging from rainforest to alpine, coastal scrubland to wild open heath, Tassie is a natural haven for Australian wildlife. Like the rest of Australia, Tassie has strict laws in place to protect its flora and fauna, so don’t be surprised to see the local wildlife wandering freely across the roads in the countryside and in the nature reserve parks. There are many unique animals to see, such as the Tasmanian devil, pademelon (they look like mini kangaroos) and spotted-tail quoll. In addition, some of the oldest and most ancient plant species on the planet can also be found there. If you want a more up-close encounter with these unique creatures, stop by Bonorong Wildlife Park or the D evils @ Cradle Tasmanian devil sanctuary to feed them or enjoy a night tour to see them in their nocturnal state. A drive along the island coastline will not only yield dramatic cliffs and sea stacks, but is also an opportunity to do some whale spotting. Blue, humpback, and killer whales often swim along the east coast during their migratory seasons in June and July and then in September, October and November. You can also choose from the various cruises available, to catch sea birds and sea mammals in their natural habitat. 2. Embark on Adventures in Stunning Outdoor Havens With towering mountain ridges along the centre of the island and many parks for hiking and camping, Tassie is no slouch for outdoor adventurers. Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park are some of the state’s most popular hiking sites, and worth planning a day’s trip for as it offers stunning views of the region at sunrise and sunset. At night, the skies can be so clear that it’s possible to catch the milky way. There are also many other activities available in the great outdoors of Tasmania, such as golfing, fishing and biking. Tassie has some of the most beautiful golf courses in Australia, with two of them lying next to each other while overlooking the rugged coastline of Bass Strait. Take a leisurely stroll along award-winning guided walking tours through its remote wilderness or embark on an exhilarating adventure through its mountain bike parks and trails. When it comes to fishing, Tassie takes the cake as one of the last great fisheries of the world with over 3,000 lakes and rivers for a memorable fishing experience. With 334 islands scattered around the main island, Tassie is also great for island-hopping. Take your pick from Flinders, Macquarie, Bruny, Maria and King Islands to enjoy glittering beaches, adventurous ranges and unique natural life found at these paradises. 3. Savour Fresh Produce and Delicious Wine Tassie has gained a reputation for delivering quality food enhanced by great chefs and restaurants, but the island state knows that the true hero of its stellar quality of food is its fresh ingredients lovingly cultivated and harvested by the local producers and farmers. Surrounded by the cleanest ocean water on the planet, Tassie undoubtedly has some of the best seafood offerings in the country. You will find that the region’s most prized underwater treasure is its high-quality wild blacklip and greenlip abalone, and some businesses such as Candy Abalone still individually harvest their abalone by hand from the pristine waters of southern Australia, and use traditional and natural methods to dry them. With the hands-on approach of many eateries in Tassie, one can expect freshness and open communication between guests, farmers and business owners. Foodies can enjoy intimate settings with the farmers and chefs by joining food tours such as the Tasmanian Seafood Seduction or enjoy cooking classes with the Agrarian Kitchen Cooking School. For wine, Tassie is home to seven distinct sub-regions – each of which offers different wine styles and tourism experiences. The Tamar Valley is great place to start for the wine connoisseur, as it is the oldest and largest wine district in the state. Known for producing sparking wines, pinot noir and sauvignon black, its collection varies from rustic to sophisticated. 4. Marvel at Tasmania’s World Heritage Wonders A fifth of the total area of Tasmania was included in the World Heritage List, including the Western Tasmanian Wilderness. This area composes of scenic and rugged terrains, enriched with natural wonders such as national parks, rainforests, islands, rivers and remote coastlines. Did you know that approximately half of all the Australian convict sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list are in Tasmania? These convict sites were officially included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010, having been recognised as a key component of Tasmania’s history and settlement, due to its contribution to the development of modern-day Tasmania. Reflect on the historical tales of 76,000 convicts transported to Tasmania from 1804 to 1853 as you venture along the Convict Trail, from Richmond to the Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur, or explore the Heritage Highway from Launceston to Hobart. While many of them played a crucial role as the workforce backbone for the British colony in Tassie, the worst of the worst ended up back in prisons which can be toured and explored today. 5. Soak in Vibrant Arts and Cultural Experiences Amazing cultural and art experiences can be found all around Tassie, from small artist-run spaces to world class museums. With its dark history during the colonial times and heritage of its palawa people, the aboriginals of Tasmania, the island state’s culture is diverse as it is unique. The cities also feature cutting edge contemporary art galleries and festivals that caters to interests from all walks of life. You will find that the local art scene often draws their inspiration from the natural environment of the state. There's also a strong live music and theatre scene with everything from a world class symphony orchestra to underground acts and performance art. In 2011, the opening of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart introduced new world art with its Avant Garde , thought provocative and interactive exhibitions. It also hosts an impressive program of events all year-round including MONA FOMA in summer and Dark MOFO in winter. Meanwhile, Australia’s second oldest museum, the Tasmania Museum and Art Gallery, stays true to the origins of the state with its take on the island’s art and natural history. Getting to Tasmania Tasmania is easily reachable by its two major cities of Hobart and Launceston, with direct flights from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. International visitors have the option to transit at these mainland cities or use the daily car ferry, Spirit of Tasmania, which departs from Melbourne to Devonport, located near Launceston. So if you’re planning to visit Australia this year, why not make Tassie your next holiday destination? Amidst a blend of culture, nature and history, come down for air as you reconnect with yourself once more and reinvigorate your inner calm and inspiration, and leave behind the stresses of modern life – even if it’s just for a holiday. For a truly wholesome experience of Tassie, it’s recommended to spend a week or more in this beautiful island state. To get you started, embark on your Tassie journey with this 10D9 Tasmanian Wonders tour . It will take you to Tassie’s main cities, historical attractions and stunning nature such as Hobart, Cradle Mountain, Launceston and Port Arthur. To find out more about what Tassie has to offer, check out https://www.discovertasmania.com.au/ . To get inspiration for your trip to Tassie, Sedunia Travel can help you get started with these travel packages to Tasmania .

5 Reasons Why Tasmania Should Be Your Next Aussie Destination

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Hilton Kuala Lumpur announces the appointment of Executive Chef Kazi Hassan, a modern Australian chef who combines his penchant for exotic spices and aromatic flavours with the freshest meats, vegetables and ingredients. Chef Kazi has 18 impressive years of international culinary experiences from Australia, Middle East and Asia. During a prior 2-year stint at Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Chef Kazi’s passion and skill brought the hotel’s F&B outlets into the local dining scene’s spotlight. His return will see him taking the reign to refining hospitality and leading exciting culinary initiatives to elevate the quality of experience at Hilton Kuala Lumpur. With a love for travel, culture and food, the global chef and his international team at Hilton Kuala Lumpur will curate new versatile menus and food concepts for all F&B outlets, room service, and all sizes of banquets and outside catering events – suited for all taste buds. “We are excited to have Chef Kazi back at Hilton Kuala Lumpur and certain that his international experiences at top five-star hotels and Michelin-starred restaurant will see the development of stellar culinary initiatives.” said Jamie Mead, Hilton's regional general manager for Malaysia, Vietnam and Philippines. Hilton Kuala Lumpur’s much-awaited, newly renovated Grand Ballroom launches mid-March with Chef Kazi spearheading an innovative, always-on F&B concept as his first official project back at the hotel. In line with Hilton’s Meet with Purpose concept, the Delicatessen promotes Mindful Eating and Chef Kazi demonstrates his knack of delivering exquisite flavours with the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu is filling, healthy and constantly refreshed, featuring the likes of Malaysian Breakfast Burritos, Banana Oatmeal Muffins and Roti Bakar. The live stations will have chefs dishing up specials such as Chynna’s Peking Duck Rolls, Mini ABCs and more. From Cappuccino to Americano, the Barista Café serves freshly made coffee using Hilton Kuala Lumpur’s bespoke blend. “During my tenure at Hilton Singapore and Hilton Colombo, I redesigned and relaunched a variety of F&B outlets. Though at times I was taken out of my comfort zone, these opportunities allowed me to inject my own creative concepts and ideas into each location from inception. Hilton Kuala Lumpur was where my Southeast Asia journey began, and taking on the role as the Executive Chef presents me with numerous exciting projects ahead. I look forward to sharing my international culinary experiences with the team and growing together as a family”, said Chef Kazi. Grown and trained in Melbourne, Chef Kazi began his culinary journey in 2002 and spent more than six years in Australia focusing on large banquet operations. In 2008, he moved to the Middle East and became Chef de Cuisine at Market Restaurant, inspired by one of the world’s most famous two Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Two years later, Chef Kazi returned to Sydney as Executive Sous Chef at Sheraton on the Park Hotel until he departed on his SouthEast Asia adventure. For more information kindly contact +603 2264 2264 or visit www.eatdrinkhilton.com

Executive Chef Kazi Hassan Returns to Hilton Kuala Lumpur

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When one of the most highly anticipated runs of the year has been canceled, you know it's bad. The Tokyo Marathon Foundation announced Monday that its annual race will be canceled for non-professional runners in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus in the region. The foundation said in a statement posted on its website that the recent confirmation of a case of coronavirus — formally named COVID-19 — in Tokyo prompted the decision to limit the number of runners. “We have been preparing for the Tokyo Marathon 2020 (Sunday, March 1) while implementing preventive safety measures, however, now that case of COVID-19 has been confirmed within Tokyo, we cannot continue to launch the event within the scale we originally anticipated,” the organizer said. Competitive races, however, will still occur since the Tokyo marathon is an Olympic trial race for elite athletes. But many of the 38,000 runners who had registered for the March 1 race took to social media to voice their disappointment as well as frustrations with their now-scuttled travel plans.
Others worried that the coronavirus could have a similar impact on the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics, one of the globe’s largest sports gatherings. The 2020 Olympics are scheduled to begin in July, and the event is expected to draw tens of thousands of international travelers.

Tokyo Marathon 2020 Canceled General Entry

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Tokyo is already home to the renowned Disney Resort (which encompasses both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Sea) and the much loved Sanrio Puroland but come 2023, Harry Potter will soon join the capital's list of theme parks. It has been reported by NHK that Warner Bros is interested in opening a dedicated Harry Potter theme park in Tokyo, making it the franchise's second theme park in Japan. The first is Osaka's Universal Studios Japan with the inclusion of its Wizarding World of Harry Potter expansion in 2014. However the new theme park will be solely dedicated to Mr Potter and his magical world alone. This announcement follows after reports of one of Japan's oldest amusement park, Toshimaen closing its doors as a result of poor ticket sales in recent years. Given that today's park goers are often driven by social media hype and media franchises, it should come as no surprise that Toshimen's generic carnival like rides have become its greatest liability. To put things in perspective, at its peak in the 90s, Toshimaen could draw a consistent annual crowd of 4 million. In 2018, only 1,120,000 tickets were sold. Furthermore, ask any foreign tourists of it and you will be met with a confused look. Park owner, Seibu Railway is considering closing the park down gradually and selling off the property which is where Warner Bros may come in. What a shame considering that Toshimaen has been opened since the 1920s and has been a part in the childhood experience for many Tokyolites. NHK says that negotiations are still ongoing, and so details are scarce, including the potential scale of the project. Still, should the Harry Potter plan go through, it’ll make Nerima Ward, where Toshimaen is located, a major mecca for fans of the franchise and could potentially rejuvenate the area for tourism.

WB's Harry Potter Park may be opening in Tokyo, come 2023

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For the first time ever, love can take you places with the all new Travel For Love show, a travel lifestyle series by Discovery and Astro. The series sees micro-influencers embark on a trip of a lifetime to experience the magic of a new adventure with the anticipation of meeting someone for the first time. This entire series is unscripted and promises to reinvent the genre of travel shows. Travel for Love is a social experiment presenting all the thrills of travel, with a refreshing take on the beginnings of new relationships. Kicking off in the East Malaysian state of Sarawak, the eight-part series will be shot in different parts of Asia. In each episode, the influencer will discover the amazing local flavours, colourful festivities and culture, and also step out of their comfort zones by travelling with individuals outside of their usual sphere of interaction. Should a connection be formed, viewers can expect bonus digital content, with the tantalizing possibility of second dates and behind-the-scenes moments. The digital element provides viewers with an additional touchpoint and also helps give more depth to the story as each adventure unfolds. It is scheduled to air on 14 Feb 2020, Friday aka Valentine's Day at 9.25pm (local time) on TLC (Astro Channel 728), Discovery’s flagship lifestyle channel and will run for 10 30-mins episodes.

Travel For Love, a Discovery and Astro production on Finding Love Abroad

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Time to pack your bags and cuti-cuti Malaysia 2020 because MATTA Fair has some great domestic deals lined up for you. In light of the recent viral outbreak, MATTA will be organising the first ever MATTA Fair Cuti Cuti Malaysia which will be held on 4 – 5 April 2020 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). Not only will this cure Malaysians' itch to travel but also help the local tourism industry recover after being hit by mass cancellations from the China market due to the virus. MATTA President Datuk Tan Kok Liang says “In view of the current consumer sentiment, it is now the best time to hold a new MATTA Fair exclusively for domestic tourism that facilitates Malaysian holidaymakers to enjoy the many attractions and safe havens within the country, and for service providers to switch focus from inbound market to domestic.” “The biannual Kuala Lumpur MATTA Fair will continue to feature both domestic and overseas travel. The next Fair, normally held in March, has been deferred to 1 – 3 May 2020 with the venue unchanged. As domestic tourism is now on everyone’s lips, the MATTA Fair Cuti Cuti Malaysia will be held earlier to meet consumer demand.” “MATTA Fair Cuti Cuti Malaysia will be a great one-stop centre for foreign travel agents organising tours to Malaysia to view what exhibitors are offering and engage with suppliers directly. Many organisations have taken cognisance that Malaysia is a safe and secure destination. We are also rated in the top 10 percent as a peaceful country among 163 nations by the global Institute for Economics & Peace.” “MATTA Fair Cuti Cuti Malaysia will be offering a great variety of new or interesting products allowing Malaysians with penchant to travel on holidays to discover, explore and enjoy with peace of mind. This is because our country had remained safe from all necessary measures taken by government authorities, which received commendation from the World Health Organsation (WHO).” “Staging a successful domestic travel fair will serve as the best testament that Malaysia is safe for all visitors and this message should be conveyed to the world by all responsible media and tourism players. Regrettably, those fixated only on the negative have only been successful in spreading doom and gloom, and fear spreads faster than coronavirus,” concluded Tan. To get some travel inspirations, check out our previous postings featuring stunning Malaysian gems: 5 Romantic Glamping Experiences in Malaysia 10 Places in Malaysia that look like Foreign Destinations

Cuti-Cuti Malaysia MATTA Fair to push domestic destinations

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Written by Kachina Dimmock on May 9, 2019 for GoLiveIt blog All too often, we hear of people cancelling travel plans due to not having someone to travel with. It’s as if travelling alone isn’t even considered as an option – perhaps due to concerns about being lonely, bored and safety.
However, travelling alone can be one of the most rewarding ways to travel. Afterall, there’s nothing quite like discovering a new place on your own – therefore resulting in the expanding of your horizons and comfort zones!
While travelling solo in a foreign country can seem intimidating, it is definitely something that everyone should experience at least once in their life! Here are some of our favorite perks when it comes to solo travel:
Freeeeeedom! When you travel with others, you need to be considerate of activities and timings when planning your itinerary; you might not always get to do/see the things you were really hoping to include in your plans.
When you travel alone, you can set your own schedule; imagine being able to wake up whenever you want, eat whatever you want and see whatever you want. When you travel alone, the itinerary is completely up to you-you don’t have to consult anyone else. Make new friends When you travel with others, it’s only normal that you stick together. However, when you travel alone, you might be surprised by how easy it is to actually strike up a conversation with others.
A lot of people assume that when you’re travelling with a group you don’t want to be disturbed, so will turn to the solo traveller for conversation almost every time. It’s a great way to make new friendships and interact with locals! Gain self confidence Travelling alone helps you to gain valuable skills and will challenge your limits and ability to cope with obstacles that may arise. You will build confidence as you navigate unfamiliar areas, converse with strangers and figure out how to get from one place to another. Learn to enjoy your own company When you travel alone, you start to see the importance of “me time”. You start to appreciate your own company and actually learn to enjoy spending time on your own. It’s a great way to enhance your relationship with yourself! Push yourself out of your comfort zone Being away from the comforts of home and going to new places will ultimately challenge you to learn how to rely on yourself at difficult times and test your patience. You might be struggling to understand directions from a local or find yourself hiking for hours – both of these situations will test your ability to overcome obstacles, challenge you and help you to grow. It’s only by putting yourself out there that you are able to explore our amazing planet and discover many new and exciting places.
If you’re interested in booking your next solo adventure, check out our Avalon Waterways river cruise itineraries – we’ve slashed the single supplement for our 2020 cruises!

The Perks of Solo Travel

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Grooves, the human resources tech (HR Tech) startup partners with The Bank of Iwate Group, Iwagin Jigyo Souzou Capital, Hachimantai City and Halal Navi to expand into adventure tourism at Appi Highland in Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture. This expansion marks an effort to transform the city into a Muslim-friendly destination for adventure tourism, where visitors have the opportunity to experience Japan’s unique powder-like snow, “Japow”. The influx of tourists will also assist the city in achieving sustainable growth and creating job opportunities for the local community. Against the backdrop of this expansion, Grooves conducted a travel demonstration, by leveraging this year’s annual Freeride World Tour (FWT) to promote Appi Highland as a Muslim-friendly snow resort while expanding the Muslim tourism market in Hachimantai City. Through this experiment, Muslim influencers who attended the demonstration not only experienced freeriding ‒ a form of skiing and snowboarding by riding natural mountain terrain free from rules and man-made features ‒ at Appi Highland, but also participated in the Freeride World Qualifier and Freeride Junior Tour events. “We want to extend a hand of invitation to Muslim tourists around the world. With over 1.8 billion Muslims around the world, we want to provide them with access and encouragement to experience Japan’s snow resorts. Japan is gaining popularity as the world’s leading ski destination and the demonstration that we’ve conducted at Appi Highland has shown promising results. We are definitely exploring other possibilities through our existing partnerships and resources to deliver unforgettable travel experiences and to increase sustainable job opportunities for the local community in Hachimantai City” said Mr. Yukihiro Ikemi, Chief Executive Officer of Grooves Inc. Following the success of the demonstration, Grooves will proceed with the design and construction of tours and activities at Appi Highland. This initiative aims to provide Muslim travelers from around the world an opportunity to experience the uniqueness of snow in Japan, which will in turn lead to the creation of new job opportunities. Grooves believes that the potential snow resort will need to be coordinated with local governments and 22 regional financial institutions to further increase inbound traffic to 60 million tourists by 2050. “Adventure tourism is expected to contribute 50 trillion yen (estimated RM1.89 billion) with a growing potential of 111% year-on-year. At the same time, there are very few halal-friendly snow resorts around the world. This initiative taps into an industry with high growth potential while giving Muslim tourists the opportunity to experience the uniqueness of Japanese snow,” adds Mr. Ikemi. The ‘Snow Resort’ is an important factor of the inbound tourism in Japan as the number of foreign skiers visiting Japan has increased over the years and snow resorts are expected to have great potential to help achieve the number of tourists to 40 million annually by 2020. Furthermore, the Japanese government has set it as a major policy for the future at the 34th Tourism Strategy Implementation Conference held back in November 2019.

Iwate Prefecture Opens Up Doors to Muslim Market with Adventure Tourism

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Hey, travellers. We know that you’re all wary of travelling due to the Coronavirus outbreak and we hope that the situation will improve for those in China and aboard. But all the same, we know that the travel bug in us is just itching to get out and explore. Can you guess which ones are in Malaysia Fret not as we have found several hidden gems in Malaysia that look as though you're in different country altogether. Without the risk of an infection. 1. Sungai Pisang, Gombak Source: Sungai Pisang from Montanic Source: Gigit Waterfall from BaliSakti This spot is still a relatively hidden gem amongst hikers and even we're a bit reluctant to reveal it here for worry of further pollution in the area. But the waterfall at the end of the hike rivals those famously found in Indonesia such as Gitgit Waterfall in Bali. The hike along Sungai Pisang is easy and satisfying rewarding with a stunning waterfall at the end of the trail. Even the hike itself offers a unique experience as you pass through two storm drains under the Karak Highway. 2. Bukit Tabur, Selangor Source: Bukit Tabur from Syibli flickr Source: Glass House Mountains fromTourism & Events Queensland Is it possible that we have our very own Glass House Mountains of the Sunshine Coast, Australia right at the doorsteps of Kuala Lumpur? Why, yes it is in the towering form of Bukit Tabur. Also known as the Dragon's Back, this ridge is famous for its mesmerising views of the Klang Gate Dams and the city landscape at sunrise. But we would advice caution as the trail along the ridge can get technical. Best to bring an experienced hiker with you and check with the Forestry Department on the trail status before attempting it. 3. Astaka Morocco, Putrajaya Source: Morocco by Alex Azabache Source: Astaka Morocco by Sugoi Days Are we in Morocco? It would seem like it especially when everything in Astaka Morocco aka Morocco Pavilion in Putrajaya was designed by skilled artists in Morocco itself. Inside this building, you will find that no two rooms are alike, each with their own distinctive features Morocco's oldest imperial cities. The architecture design is simply intricate and amazing plus totally instagram-worthy! Do bare in mind though that photos are only allowed in the external part of the pavilion and there is a fee of RM3 to enter the other section. 4. Klebang Beach, Melaka source: Malaysian Flavours Sahara Desert may be out of reach for now but if sand boarding or surfing is something you've been itching to try, have a go at Melaka's very own Klebang Beach. Manmade sand dunes have unintentionally turned it into a recent tourist attraction with white sands towering along a pathway to a pond in the middle of it. If angled right, it will really look as though you're in the Sahara Desert or Japan's own Tottori Sand Dune. source: Sahara Desert by Falkenpost from Pixabay 5. Kundasang, Sabah source: Kundasang from Traveloka Ah, listen to the gentle mooing of the ranch cows as you breath in the cold air of....no, wait, not New Zealand but rather Kundasang, Sabah! It certainly looks like New Zealand's green pastures but the imposing figure of Akinabalu aka Mount Kinabalu is a quick reminder that we're in fact still in Malaysia. East Malaysia to be exact. Only a two hours drive from Kota Kinabalu, Kundasang perfectly replicates New Zealand from cows gazing in its green fields, towering mountain backdrops and cooling climate. source: New Zealand by Falco from Pixabay 6. Sekinchan, Selangor source: Sekinchan from Lifestyle Asia We've all seen the impossibly beautiful photos of paddy fields of Ubud, Indonesia or Guizhou, China. But located just 2 hours from the city is our own little rice bowl called Sekinchan. With a part of the West Coast Expressway now opened, getting there is now faster and soon you will have those beautiful shots of endless paddy fields to wow your friends. Of course, do also stop for an affordable seafood meal while you're there. source: Ubud by Joel Vodell on Unsplash 7. Kwai Chai Hong, Kuala Lumpur source: Kwai Chai Hong Facebook It will be a while before we can explore China's street lanes like Tianzifung once more but until then why not journey through time in our own Kwai Chai Hong near Petaling Street. Just a year old, it's easy to see how and why a once abandoned alleyway is now Kuala Lumpur's hot tourist spot. Part of the Project Kwai Chai Hong, the restoration of pre-war buildings involves 10 shophouses — six fronting Jalan Petaling and another four units along Lorong Panggung, as well as a delightful laneway tucked between the two roads of Jalan Petaling and Lorong Panggung. Best of all, it's within walking distance from several train lines and Chinatown. source: Tianzifang from China Tourism 8. Pulau Kapas, Terengganu source: Pulau Kapas Facebook Malaysia is blessed with many picturesque islands to rival Maldives and Bora Bora and one such a destination is Kapas Island. Its name comes from its sandy beaches that look like cotton. Expect a great place to unwind, relax and enjoy your getaway at a number of resorts scattered throughout the island. The water is pristine and invitingly beautiful for swimming and snorkeling amongst the fishes. Just like you would do in Maldives. source: Maldives by karl muscat on Unsplash 9. Siniawan, Sarawak source: Siniawan from Sarawak Tourism The vibrant bustling streets of Taipei is known for their myriad of delicious food but did you know that Sarawak has its own little Taipei located just 30 minutes from its capital? In recent year, the quiet town of Siniawan has drawn the attention of many visitors for its colourful night market. Over the weekends, an entire street is filled with tables and chairs for people to mingle and enjoy the different types of street food available from seafood to finger licking good chicken wings. But if you're planning to head out there to take part in the fun, best to rent a car as public transportation to that area is infrequent. source: Shilin, Taiwan by Vernon Raineil Cenzon on Unsplash 10. Kokol Hill, Sabah No longer do you need to travel all the way to Bali for the swing photo for your instagram because swinging (pun intended) into action is the Le' One Kokol Elf, Sabah. This hidden spot is a 45 minutes drive away from the city of Kota Kinabalu and is known for its Insta-worthy attractions and amazing sunset views of the city. *** And there you have it. Just a few of Malaysia's own little exotic places that will make it look as though you have left the country. After all, we still need a break from time to time. Of course, we also hope these gems will inspire your travel more and further so that you can see what else the world has to offer. At the meantime, feel free to browse through seduniatravel.com for more travel tour ideas and destinations.

10 Places in Malaysia that look like Foreign Destinations

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The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair, which was set to be held on 13 - 15 March, has now be postponed, in light of the coronavirus outbreak. MATTA president Datuk Tan Kok Liang said that the management committee has decided to move the fair to May 1 to 3 at the Putra World Trade Centre. He added that the decision came after “extensive consultation with key partners, sponsors and NTOs (national tourism organisations) with written requests and feedback from participating MATTA members”. The travel fair which was initially scheduled for March is being deferred due to the adverse effects that recent travel bans and negative public perception caused by indiscriminate social media postings pertaining to the coronavirus have had on the Malaysian tour and travel trade. Discussions with industry partners both locally and abroad coupled with events that are unfolding in the travel space have resulted in weak forward booking trends by customers who are preferring to delay making travel plans until the current global situation shows signs of returning to normalcy. MATTA President Datuk Tan Kok Liang says “Although the shift in dates will not be convenient to everyone we are amazed at the level of support and encouragement that we have received from our exhibitors, sponsors and trade partners. Even now the team is working very hard with industry partners to put together irresistible travel deals in anticipation of a bounce-back in the market.” “History has shown that our travel industry has proven to be very resilient and that Malaysians are an adventurous and hardy lot who won't stop traveling,” added Tan. In the meantime, MATTA will be working very closely with all our participating industry partners to create greater opportunities in preparation for the upcoming Fair. More than 200 exhibitors, ranging from National Tourism Organisations, State Tourism Offices, travel agencies, airlines, theme parks, cruise lines and hotels have registered their participation in the MATTA Fair. MATTA is also looking into other exciting initiatives to satiate Malaysians' love for travel even during this difficult period in time. The public can visit and follow the official MATTA Fair Facebook account @mattafairkualalumpur and official Twitter account @MATTA_FAIR to receive the latest updates. Source: Matta Fair

March MATTA Fair 2020 Postponed to May following Coronavirus outbreak

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Updated 21.2.2020: Due to the virus outbreak, Sanrio Puroland will be closed from 22nd Feb till 12th Mar 2020. Check back here again for further updates. Hello Kitty Land Tokyo, also known as Sanrio Puroland celebrates My Melody’s 45th anniversary this year. The My Melody’s birthday fair will open 17th of January and last until 31st December 2020 with the theme, “My Melody Pink Therapy". The theme focuses on the Sanrio character’s warmth and kindness and conveys its spirit of making people feel happy and positive. Keep an eye out as My Melody will be donning two new birthday dresses for the special occasion during her hug time and meet and greet. In order to mark the celebration, the "My Melody shop" will reopens for the first time in five years in an entirely pink colour scheme. Fans of the character will be able to get their hands on limited edition 45th anniversary merchandise as well as Sanrio Puroland original goods. At the back of the shop awaits a captivating new photo spot, the “My Melody Garden”. Dotted with cherry blossom trees this photogenic place, kept all in pink, offers some quirky photo spots such as a My Melody-shaped giant flower and a romantic antique-style sofa. The popular ride "My Melody and Kuromi's My Meroad Drive" will be an entirely new experience as My Melody’s original anniversary scent will be added to the attraction. Visitors can now unwind with the scent of aromatic lavender and cherry blossoms derived from its natural oils. Following the idea "Pink and Sakura (cherry blossom) with My Melody” the Puroland menu will incorporate My Melody-inspired dishes and drinks. Visitors can opt for example for a special My Melody curry with heart-shaped fried shrimp or a strawberry and almond boba pearl drink, and of course a delicious My Melody anniversary cake. “2020 will be an amazing year for Sanrio Puroland”, says Yuya Makizato of Sanrio Entertainment Co. Ltd., the Hello Kitty Land Tokyo operator. “It marks the 45th anniversaries for My Melody and the Little Twin Stars and also the 30th anniversary of Sanrio Puroland itself. We are looking forward with excitement to share with our visitors the many new activities and attractions in the pipe for this year.” For more information, visit Sanrio Puroland

Hello Kitty Land Tokyo celebrates My Melody’s 45th anniversary

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Nipping close at the heels of Chinese New Year are two version of Valentine’s Day: Chap Goh Mei and the V-Day itself. Instead of the typical standard dinner at super expensive fine dining restaurant or a staycation at a five-star hotel, why not escape the city and every romantic couple there by heading out to nature for a memorable glamping experience with that special someone. Here are a few places you can go in Malaysia for that perfect glamping date. 1. Canopy Villa, Genting Highlands Without having to traveling too far from the city center, Canopy Villa is your home away from home for this Valentine’s Day with your significant other. Situated in tranquil foothills of Genting Highlands, this glamping getaway is spread over eight acres of land where a unique circus-like or air tents await you in Janda Baik. Don’t worry about food and drinks as the accommodation has it covered with their eight-course barbecue buffet and English breakfast. Address: Kampung Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Room rates start from: RM185
Website: Canopy Villa 2. A’moss Farmstay, Cameron Highlands Located in a secluded hidden part of Cameron Highlands is A’moss Farmstay which offers nature-loving couples a unique romantic escape from the usual hotel stays in the highlands. You will feel as though you’re on an entirely different country as you gazed out the windows of your geodesic dome tent - come sunset, night and sunrise. The domes also overlook the famous Boh Plantation but its location is ideal for a hidden getaway. Address: Amoss Road, Kampung Gerak Sepadu, 39000, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang Room rate starts from RM200 – RM220 Website: Airbnb 3. Sekeping Serendah, Selangor Going back to nature doesn’t necessarily mean roughing it out or having to travel far out from the city. A staycation at Sekeping Serendah makes the perfect weekend date amidst Mother Nature. The rooms are aesthetically pleasing while allowing natural sunlight and fresh air to flood the cosy space. GPS Coordinates: N3.368050, E101.631150 Room rates start from RM300 Website: Sekeping Serendah 4. JapaMala Resort, Pulau Tioman Sun, sand, sea – the best way to knock your back-to-nature date out of the park. If you’re planning to get away for a whole weekend, then why not consider an island retreat for just the two of you. Enjoy the sea breeze as you stroll hand in hand along the sandy beaches of Pulau Tioman or embark on a jungle-trekking adventure together. Address: Kampung Lanting, 26800, Pahang Room rates start from RM600 Website: JapaMala Resort 5. Sailor’s Rest, Janda Baik Fancy living on a yacht or a boat? Wake up to the gentle lulls of your boathouse at Sailor’s Rest. Less than an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur, this glamping site is nestled among the Titiwangsa mountains in Janda Baik. The cool, crisp air is perfect for those wanting a quick getaway that doesn't require long travel time. If motion sickness is an issue for you or your significant other then consider one of their spacious tent set up by the stream. Address: Lot 8592, Lorong Dato Panglima, Kg. Sg. Lurau, Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang.
Room rates start from: RM95 per person.
Website: Sailor's Rest Resort Now, here’s a few tips to make the most of your glamping getaway. We recommend booking directly on the website of the resort as this will get you better perks for the special occasion. Secondly, trying booking through a travel agent first for special rates or Valentine’s Day packages. Finally book on a weekday. Yes, Valentine’s Day is on a weekend but it would make the experience so much more intimate, secluded and romantic when the entire site is a void of people save for the two of you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning!

5 Romantic Glamping Experiences in Malaysia

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AirAsia is canceling selected flights to and from mainland China until 29 February 2020, while making provisions for guests with flight bookings to/from all destinations in mainland China as well as Hong Kong and Macao to obtain credit account or full refund. All flights to and from Wuhan remain suspended until 29th February 2020. Certain destinations within AirAsia’s flight network have imposed travel bans for guests based on nationalities, cities of origin, travel history or the purpose of travel. Guests are recommended to check with respective governments or embassy offices prior to travel. The following options are available to AirAsia guests who were affected by the flight changes, or wish to make changes to their flight: 1. Move flight: One-time flight change to a new travel date on the same route within 30 calendar days from original flight time without additional cost, subject to seat availability. Applicable for guests affected by cancelled flights (except flights to/from Wuhan) and travel restrictions imposed; OR 2. Credit account: Retain the value of your fare in your AirAsia BIG Loyalty account for future travel with AirAsia. The online credit account is to be redeemed for booking within 90 calendar days from the issuance date for your travel with us. The actual travel dates can be after the expiry date as long as our flight schedule is out. Applicable for all flights to/from mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao until 15 February 2020 (or 29 February 2020 for flights to/from Wuhan only) that was ticketed prior to 28 January 2020; OR 3. Full refund: Obtain a full refund to your original payment method for the amount equivalent to your booking. Applicable for all flights to/from mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao until 15 February 2020 that was ticketed prior to 28 January 2020. Guests whose flights fall into the above date range can obtain a full refund in the amount equivalent to that booking in the form of original payment. Refund requests can be made with AVA at support.airasia.com. From the main menu categories available, click on “Refund” then “New Refund Request” and finally “AirAsia flights to/from Wuhan” for flights to/from Wuhan OR “China Voluntary Refund” for flights to/from other China destinations, including Hong Kong and Macao. From there, simply follow the instructions as directed by AVA. AirAsia strongly encourages guests to update their contact details using the “My Bookings” feature on airasia.com to ensure that they receive timely notifications. Guests can also check on their flights via the “Flight Status” function on airasia.com website and mobile app. For bookings made through travel agents including online travel agents, refund requests are to be made via the respective travel agents. AirAsia assures that the safety and wellbeing of our guests and Allstars is our top priority. AirAsia is complying with the advice and regulations from the local government, civil aviation authorities, global and local health agencies, including the World Health Organisation. AirAsia is closely monitoring this situation and reserves the right to announce further policies according to the latest developments. Follow AirAsia on Twitter (@AirAsia) and Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsia) for the latest updates, or contact our customer support team at support.airasia.com. Guests are also encouraged to check their flight status at airasia.com/flightstatus for live updates. source: AirAsia Travel Advisory updated 3 February, 10pm

AirAsia cancels selected flights to and from China, allows refunds

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The Tokyo Summer Olympics is less than seven months away and with it, a high volume of visitors to the capital of beautiful Japan. Of course, Japan with their reliable efficiency has sought to improve its transportation means to welcome visitors with the introduction of the improved Japan Rail Pass. What is the Japan Rail Pass? As known as the JR Pass, the Japan Rail Pass lets guests to Japan to travel on Japan's superior train system at a discount. This includes unlimited travel on Japan's bullet train network, other train, bus and ferry routes. However, many will agree that it can a hassle to buy and collect the pass. But, good news for international visitors as the Japan Rail Pass system will undergo some improvements to make the process more convenient for foreign visitors. Read on to learn more about the coming changes and how they can improve your next trip to Japan! How Does the Japan Rail Pass Work? Until the new JR Pass is introduced, international guests will need to buy an exchange order for an authoritised seller in the home country before arriving in Japan. This exchange order is only valid for 90 days during which it must be redeemed at a JR ticket office in Japan for the actual rail pass. Travellers can pick from 7, 14 or 21 days validity periods which begins from the day it's activated in Japan. During this time, pass holders can enjoy unlimited travel on bullet trains, JR trains and participating lines. Everyone knows that the famous Shinkansen train are the must efficient and effective way of moving around Japan but it can be pricey. This is why the JR Rail Pass has proven to be one of the more cost effective passes to pass especially if you're planning to travel around Japan. What’s Changing with the Japan Rail Pass In 2020? The upgrades to the Japan Rail Pass system will start in the spring of 2020, just in time for the influx of visitors expected for the Tokyo Olympics. These changes are designed to make the process simpler for visitors through the use of a multilingual website that supports English, Chinese (traditional and simplified), and Korean, as well as some upgrades to the pass system itself. The new website is scheduled to open around April, so we're expecting more information about the buying process to be released by Japan Rail in the coming months. No More Exchange Orders The exchange order system that has been in place up until now added a sometimes inconvenient step for people who wanted to buy a pass. From spring 2020, Japan Rail Pass users will be able to buy their pass directly on the new website without needing to visit a travel agent or have an exchange order posted to their home address. After buying online, they can then pick the pass up at a JR ticket office once arriving in Japan. Simplified Reserved Seat Bookings On Japanese bullet trains, there are two types of seating options: non-reserved or reserved. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you can simply jump on non-reserved carriages without needing to book a seat. This is not a problem most of the time - in fact, the ability to catch any train gives you a lot of flexibility. However, if you're traveling during a busy period, knowing that you have your seats secured can also be worth the surcharge. Under the current system, Japan Rail Pass customers need to go to a JR ticket window to book a reserved seat on bullet trains. From the spring of 2020, Japan Rail Pass customers will be able to book these reserved seats online or get one from a ticket machine at bullet train stations. Some travelers to Japan don't realize that if the bullet trains are full, you may have to stand for your entire ride, split your group up into different carriages, or even wait in line at the station until a spot opens up. This easier way to reserve a seat will hopefully help people make their bookings well in advance and travel with peace of mind. Quicker Travel with Automatic Ticket Gates Another welcome change coming this year is the fact that Japan Rail Passes will now be able to be used at regular automatic ticket gates. Currently, users need to show their pass to a staff member at the manned station gates each time they travel. Since the Japan Rail Pass can be used on local JR trains as well as bullet trains, potentially being caught in a line at the manned gate multiple times a day can quickly get old. This new improvement will allow you to zip through the gates like a local. Even Easier Train Travel in Japan! Unlimited travel on Japan's amazing bullet train network at a huge discount is a hard deal to pass up! Even so, the Japan Rail Pass system can present a bit of information overload when you first start learning about all the details. Japan Rail's new website and general improvements to the system will make the system just a little more frictionless for visitors, and just in time for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

How to take advantage of the new & improved Japan Rail Pass for Tokyo 2020

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Eh, what’s up, Doc? Bugs Bunny welcomes you to the adventure of the lifetime in Abu Dhabi come 2021 with the opening of the World’s first Warner Bros Hotel on Yas Island. The renowned island is already home to many big entertainment names such as Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Links Golf Course and more. So having a Warner Bros themed hotel doesn’t seem so out of this world. Reports have shared that the hotel known as WB Abu Dhabi is already 40% completed and the project of a unique collaboration between Miral, an assets management company responsible for developing Yas Island and Warner Bros. It aims to position Yas Island as one of the top global destinations for entertainment, leisure and business. The WB Abu Dhabi will be located just adjacent to the Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi theme park for easy convenience of visitors and park goers. The hotel’s design and concept offering premium amenities and distinct experiences catering to both leisure and business travellers. Costing US$112 million, WB Abu Dhabi will offer 250 keys over eight levels, fully adorned with modern décor that celebrates Warner Bros.' extensive film and television library. Parents can book their kids into the indoor and outdoor Kid's Club, before relaxing at the spa and fitness club and enjoying dinner at one of the hotel’s signature WB restaurants. There’s also a shaded rooftop pool where guests can take in Yas Island's distinctive skyline. There is also a host of adaptable meeting rooms, and a large ballroom catering to the needs of business travellers. This will mark Warner Bros. Studios’ first-ever branded hotel, where “this new venture will pay tribute to Warner Bros.' legacy of rich entertainment, offering fans a unique way to experience their favorite brands and characters,” said Pam Lifford, president of Warner Bros. global brands and experiences. We are certainly looking forward to hang out with our favourite Warner Bros characters next year in Abu Dhabi!

World’s first Warner Bros. Hotel opening 2021 in Abu Dhabi

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