After a day’s city tour and souvenir hunting, a bowl of soup is just what the soul demands. And when in Penang, nothing other than a bowl of steaming Asam Laksa will do! A fish and tamarind based soup with a touch of a sour aftertaste, it remains a local favourite of all time; right from when the Chinese immigrants moved to the island to this present day. Said to be a dish born out of the intermarriage of the Chinese and local Malays, it is a dish made for the soul.

The many versions of Asam Laksa

Ever since it featured in CNN’s top ten best food list, the dish inevitably remains on everyone’s must-try dishes. Made from poached and shredded mackerel, the sourness of the soup makes it the perfect “feel good” meal. The distinctive flavour attributes to the use of tamarind, lemongrass, chilli and galangal (Asian plant of ginger family) in the right quantities and mixtures. You can customise the soup as per your liking, from the variety of base ingredients used to garnishes. Also, adding a dollop of shrimp paste would do the trick to enhance the flavours a lot more.

The dish tantalises your taste buds with its tangy flavour. Priced low, Asam Laksa makes up a whole bunch of different versions you can try and experiment with. Meanwhile, a friendly little chat with the locals can get you close with the food culture of the locals. 

A local guide from Locaguide will ensure an experiment with the perfect meal to re-energise with, between shopping sprees. The guide will make you try more than just a single version of Asam Laksa during your tour of Malaysia. Take your guide’s help to find the local hole in the wall shops selling the most authentic version of this dish. The dish lets you take home food memories of a lifetime. Thus, sure to change your idea of soup noodles upon tasting the iconic Asam Laksa.

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As you explore the city of Johor Bahru, make sure to keep a day alone to explore Johor Bahru’s old town. The town is well known for its famous food stalls and buildings of the past. You can spend a whole day walking and still not feel like you have seen it all at the end of the day.

Lined with several buildings that hold stories from the past, Johor Bahru’s Old Town reflects the Chinese and Indian Heritage. They seem to possess a greater influence on the town of Johor. Visited by both locals and tourists likewise for the local and authentic food options available, the town is a foodie’s paradise.

Things to do at Johor Bahru town

Meanwhile, on your stroll through the neighbourhood, find yourself paying attention to multiple things at the same. The vintage buildings, the street side souvenir shops and the food stalls selling mouthwatering dishes at every street corner.

Starting at the city square, make your way to the end. Walk through the lanes clicking pictures of the murals that decorate the city walls or the heritage buildings. These buildings still keep the rich past of the city alive. The famous Red House remains a perfect example for the people to remember the past. Thus, if lucky, you may even get to walk into the red house for an art or culture display.

The best way to tour the old town of Johor Bahru is probably with a local guide. With Locaguide, you can not only build a customised itinerary, but you can also opt for a guided tour. Your guide will help you select the restaurants and bakeries to eat from and share anecdotes from the old city. Spend time with the hidden art murals on the walls and try working on your photographic skills.

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Located in the western coast of Tioman island, Genting village is a small local village stretching 1.5 km along the coast. Nestled between the sea and lush rainforest, the pristine village spoils you with choices of places to visit, stay and eat.

Things to do at Genting village

You can spend your time exploring the village or relaxing on the clean sandy beaches. While here, learn about the village and its multiple spots just like the locals and discover their way of life. Take a stroll around the village to find the local wildlife and the flora and fauna of the island along the walkways. Also, explore the wooden houses the village is known for and shop local goodies at the multiple shops selling everything. You can find yourself some souvenirs to take back for your friends and family from your holiday on Tioman island.

Speak with a local guide from Locaguide about the best eating places and mingle around with some of the locals. It might leave you amused to see them share pieces of anecdotes about their life on the island. Or you can sing with them the local songs at multiple karaoke spots across the village. Thus, interacting with them is the best way to unravel local spots in the village’s coastline. Moreover, to just enjoy the sun, sand and sea minus the crowds; and lose yourself to the salty air as you indulge in local snacks by the seaside or take a dip into the clear blue waters.

If you want to explore beyond just Genting Village, then take suggestions from your guide on the nearby villages. You will find plenty of accommodation options here. Meanwhile, you could also opt for a homestay if you want a taste of the local lifestyle. Or maybe stay at one of the chalet-style hotels that stand strewn all over the island. 

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Mount Kajang, also locally known as Gunung Kajang, is the highest mountain peak on Tioman Island. If you want to add a bit of adventure on your trip then sign up for the hike to Mount Kajang. An extinct volcano, the peak of the mountain dwells in the clouds, and the trek uphill is your test of endurance.

The trek up the Mount Kajang

As you hike you occur to notice how different the flora exists on the island when compared to the mainland. The trees here possess a life of their own and you can feel how ancient and evolved the mountain stands; from its volcanic past to its rainforest covered presently. The mountain does not have many set trails. Thus, often you see that your trek guide maps out a route for your group to navigate to the top.

As you scale the mountain, try keeping your talks minimal, so as to get a perfect glimpse of the surroundings. A Glimpse that of the wildlife the mountain houses, from the ever-present monkeys to the rarely spotted mouse deer. The animals here add to the thrill of the trek up the mountain. Alongside, you can also get up close to nature and admire the beauty of the cascading waterfalls.

At the summit, you can explore few caves that add a sense of mystery to Mount Kajang and its past. You can also witness the vastness of the milky way with a clear night sky if luck is on your side — certain to leave you enamoured with the beauty of nature. The chilly nip in the air reminds you of the high altitude climbed by you. The views of the island and the sea nearby remains proof of how gorgeous the Tioman island really is.

A hike like this is best undertaken by an experienced local guide. He/she might have a way around and can help you stay on track. Plan a hike to Mount Kajang with a local travel expert from Locaguide. The guide will assist you to plan every detail of the trek to make sure that it stays in your memories for a long time. 

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On your trip to Ipoh, Malaysia you cannot miss visiting the Kellie’s Castle. A truly haunting experience, either at the sight of the castle or because of the multiple supernatural sightings. Situated a short drive from the city of Ipoh, the best way to reach the castle would be a private taxi. Your local tour guide from Locaguide can help you book and negotiate the correct fare for the same.

Sightings at Kellie’s Castle

Built by a Scottish engineer as a gift for his wife, but left incomplete due to his untimely death; the castle remains filled with stories from locals and tourist of the supernatural sightings and historical facts. Those revolving around the castle’s construction, about the types of materials used and the ancient methods of construction. The castle alongside also makes for a photographer’s paradise! With sights and a labyrinth of underground paths, the castle takes quite a few hours to explore and experience the haunting sensation.

Get talking with the locals or other tourists around when you visit the castle. And you stand bound to hear at least a couple of stories that involve a sighting or experience involving the undead. A few stories by the locals are descriptive enough to send chills down your spine. If you possibly want to get a first-hand ghostly experience then consult your local guide from Locaguide. He/ She may take you to the spots that might hold multiple sightings and gain an experience of your own to share with others.

Include Kellie’s Castle in your Malaysia itinerary not only for the haunting stories and experiences but for the gorgeous sight. Also, not to forget the picture-perfect views of the castle. All in all this place would make you feel like a pro photographer because of the ideal design.  

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Thean Hou Temple seated along Jalan Klang Lama forms one of the largest and oldest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia. Termed as a notable religious landmark in Kuala Lumpur because of the large number of visitors it attracts every year.

About Thean Hou Temple

The Thean Hou Temple, locally known as the Temple of the Goddess of Heaven themes an elaborate six tired Pagoda. Dedicated to Tian Hou, the protector of the fishermen community the temple sits atop a hill. The Hainanese community of Kuala Lumpur established the temple in 1894. The mix of red and gold designs give a visual treat to the eyes.

The multi-arch gateway and red pillars at the main entrance symbolize prosperity and good luck. A modern Buddhist temple, it features images and art depicting Buddha all around the main hall.

Statues of Guan Di, the god of war and Wei Tuo, a divine protector are present in the temple. With elements of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, the grand structure showcases influences from all these schools of thought. 

Things to do

A walk around the temple complex leads you to a tortoise pond and a herb garden filled with Chinese medicinal plants. A sanctified Boddhi tree also graces the compound and creates an aura of mysticism!

The Thean Hou temple marks as one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Create a customised itinerary with Locaguide so that you do not miss out on this beautiful temple. With the local travel expert, you can not only visit the temple but experience the prayer ceremonies like a local. He/ She can also help you get your fortune read at the temple if it makes you keen.

The Thean Hou temple makes up for more than just a place of worship. An architectural marvel in itself which brings the local Chinese community together. So, do pay a visit and experience it for yourself.

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The Cat Museum makes up for a fun idea to spend an hour or two when in Kuching. Have an affinity towards feline creatures? Then make sure you visit this cat museum. As the name suggests, the museum contains artefacts, paintings and information on cats. Entertaining people since 1993, the museum houses over 4000 art pieces all related to cats. A cat lover or not, anyone who visits the museum certainly enjoys the museum tour.

What does the cat museum include?

The museum holds artefacts, news articles, information, stories, mummified and stuffed toys all belonging to the cats. So, to say the least, a trip to Malaysia remains incomplete without a stop at this museum. A fun excursion to discover more about cats if you never had one.

From mummified cats dating back to 3000 BC to containing the history and beliefs revolving around cats, the museum holds everything.

The legend of cats at the museum entertains almost everyone and appears comical for children too. The museum covers itself with photographic pieces and funny cat-shaped objects to entertain all age groups. Upon a walk through the museum, make sure to pick up souvenirs that remind you of the time spent at the museum. These quirky souvenirs make for some perfect gifts to take back home for family and friends.

The name of the city, Kuching, originated from the Malay word for cat, ‘kucing’. So, it naturally becomes imperative to visit the museum when in the city. Include it in your customised Kuching itinerary on Locaguide. The local travel expert will ensure a safe trip to this unique cat museum. While the entry to the museum is free of cost, you might need to pay a small fee to take photographs. The museum is definitely worth every penny.

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Want to spend time away from the bustling city during your trip to Malaysia? then Cameron Highlands makes up for a perfect getaway destination for a one day trip or two. While in Cameron Highlands, a visit to the local Big Red Strawberry Farm is a must. To reach the farm you can either trek or drive to follow the path uphill. A day at the Big Red Strawberry Farm remains ideal for a fun outing with the whole family.

Pick your own strawberries at the farm

Spend some time meandering along the trails of the strawberry farm and breath in some fresh air. Meanwhile, the idea of picking the juicy red strawberries is not frowned upon as a ticket for the same is available. Take a quick pause along the way to admire the gorgeous surroundings of the farm. Colourful potted plants and a little fish pond add to the extravaganza of the place. You can also pose to capture the memories of the day.

Savour at some delectable strawberry dishes

The hydroponic cultivation of leafy vegetables and lettuces alongside the strawberries is worth getting the first-hand view of. While a tour of the cultivation technology goes to show the advances and the positive impact science holds in the farming industry. Upon spending the day along the shady trails stop at the cafe to try some mouth-watering strawberry dishes. The variety of strawberry based dishes at the cafe offers something or the other to all the age groups. Especially, do not forget to try the melted chocolate with fresh strawberry.

While planning an itinerary to Cameron Highlands, make sure to add this vibrant farm for a firsthand experience of how your favourite fruits are grown. A local tour guide from Locaguide can help you plan a trip here and also help you make the most of this experience!

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Cameron Highlands in Malaysia is not just known for its scenic beauty and tranquil mountains but for diverse tea plantations. It is an abode to the largest tea plantation in Southeast Asia — the Boh tea plantation.

About the tea plantation

Spread over an area of 8000 acres, the Boh tea plantation on the rolling hills of Cameron Highlands is an exquisite place. In addition to the plantation, the company has its own production and packaging unit and a retail outlet for visitors. At present, the BOH estate remains one of the largest tea plantations in Malaysia. So, if you have a trip planned here, touring the Boh tea factory is the best things to do.

The name BOH is derived from Bohea, the hills in Fujian Province where tea was originally thought to be discovered.

Things to do?

The walk through the picturesque plantation is perfect for budding photographers. And for the remaining, it easily remains as one of the best spots to enjoy the uninterrupted scenic view. So, get around to explore the lush green plantations and take a glimpse of the tea production process. Also, learn how the employee spends his day there.

When planning your Cameron Highlands itinerary, discuss with a local travel expert on Locaguide. He will help you schedule a hassle-free trip to the Boh tea plantation and the factory. He may also help you with the minute details of planning like transportation and the best time to visit. 

Upon having your fill of the stunning views at the plantation, head to the in-house cafe. Savour a meal or sip on the afternoon tea here. Known for its authentic English pastries, scones and the multiple tea options, the cafe is the perfect place to sit back. Take in the view of the plantation and recap the day as you get ready to head back to your hotel.

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A short drive from Kuching is the Sarawak Cultural Village. The famous cultural park offers an insight into the local lifestyle of tribes. The village showcases cultural elements from the various ethnic groups of Sarawak. Ranging from traditional houses, locals wearing ethnic attire etc, the park has a lot to offer for all age groups.

Things to do

The village staff here share stories and explain the way of life of the tribes as they welcome you into their homes. Explore their lifestyle and way of living as you walk around the village. In addition to houses, try your hand at hunting like the locals, or the blowpipes. Try to learn the local musical instruments and dance routines with the villagers. Furthermore, the cultural village offers many photo-worthy moments and dance performances. The experience they offer is something that will keep you talking about the troupe for days to come.

Activities in Sculpture park

You can spend the afternoon walking in the sculpture park and reflecting on the meaning of stone art. Afterward, sit around the waterfall watching a performance by the locals, as you sip on one of the local teas.

Meanwhile, if you prefer some activity, you can go kayaking in the stream that flows through the village. Also, spend time at the beach near the village, swimming in the warm water and working up an appetite.

Finally, a meal at one of the many restaurants will give you a chance to try the traditional dishes of the Sarawak tribes.

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