Lot 2810, Tan Hiok Nee Street, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
33, 34, Jalan Dhoby, 80000, Johor Bahru, Johor, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
L1 Galleria @ Kotaraya (Jalan Trus), 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Jalan Abu Bakar, 80100, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Jalan Straits View, Bukit Serene, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Galleria @ Kotaraya LG-02 & LG-03, Lower Ground, Galleria@Kotaraya, Jalan Trus, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor.
Johor Bahru City Square (108 Jalan Wong Ah Fook), 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Danga City Mall, 2378, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, Wadi Hana, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Plaza Kotaraya Jalan Trus 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Malaysia
Masjid An-Nur 6, Admiralty Road Admiralty Road Singapore 739983
The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world today. Among the things that were affected are places of worship that were temporarily shut down all over the world, to prevent the spread of the virus. This year's Eid-ul Fitr celebration is also different from previous years due to mosque closures, as Muslims are encouraged to do their Eid prayers at home instead. As more countries are slowly lifting restrictions, some of the mosques all over the world have reopened. Despite the reopening of the mosques, strict measures have been put in place to reduce the risk of contagion of the virus. Some of these mosques have implemented social distancing measures when praying, as well as other rules in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Here are several mosques that have reopened after the Covid-19 closure. 1. The Reopening of Al-Aqsa Mosque in the Old City of Jerusalem Image Credit: Al-Aqsa Mosque on Facebook After more than a 2-month closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Al-Aqsa Mosque has reopened its doors to worshippers last Sunday, 31st May. According to The Council of Islamic Waqf, this was due to the slowed local spread of the virus which allowed for entry restrictions to be lifted and the Al-Aqsa mosque to be reopened. However, precautionary measures have been put in place by the Jordan-appointed council. Worshippers have to wear face masks and bring their own prayer mats. This is part of the effort to prevent further spread of the virus at Islam’s third holiest site. 2. The Reopening of Mosques in Saudi Arabia Image Credit: Ryan Pradipta Putra on Unsplash Saudi Arabia has reopened its doors to worshippers but stricter measures have been imposed to reduce the contagion of the virus. Al Masjid An-Nabawi was one amongst 90,000 mosques that have reopened for prayers in Saudi Arabia. Prior to the reopening of mosques, worshippers were informed of the new rules in place for public prayers via text messages by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. Worshippers had to comply with social distancing measures such as praying two metres (6.5ft) apart and avoiding greeting each other with hugs and handshakes. They also had to perform ablution at home since the washrooms are closed in the mosque. Mosques will also open for 15 minutes before the five daily prayers and will close 10 minutes after they conclude. Friday sermons and prayers will also last no longer than 15 minutes. 3. The Reopening of Mosques in Turkey Image Credit: Osman Köycü on Unsplash The mosques in Turkey reopened last Friday for mass prayers, as the country eased restrictions. There were hundreds of worshippers who performed mass prayers outside the historical Blue Mosque for the first time since its closure - all wearing protective masks. Since May, Turkey has been shifting towards a “new normal” by loosening lockdown measures in the country. Most public places have since reopened across the country. 4. The Reopening of Mosques in Singapore Image Credit: Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) on Facebook Most mosques in Singapore have reopened on Monday, 1 June 2020 but with precautionary measures in place. There are limited private prayer spaces, worshippers have to wear a mask and bring their own personal prayer items, as well as carry a scannable identification or a smartphone. There is also a priority given to those whose jobs require them to be on the move such as taxi drivers and delivery riders. During the first phase of the post-circuit breaker period, daily communal prayers and congregational Friday prayers will not be conducted which is in line with the national guidelines for places of worship. According to MUIS, this will be organized in the later phases when the situation permits. The reopening of the mosque, with stricter precautionary measures in place, is in line with Phase One of Post-Circuit Breaker where Singapore slowly resumes activities. 5. The Reopening of Mosques in Nigeria The government in Nigeria has since lifted restrictions placed on religious gatherings during the pandemic. Mosques, together with churches and hotels, are now free to open but with stricter measures implemented to curb the spread of the virus. Worshippers have to wear face masks, maintain social distancing as well as maintaining personal hygiene by thoroughly washing and sanitizing their hands before joining their congregation. Also, according to Sani Aliyu, chairman of the Task Force, places of worship like churches and mosques are only allowed to operate between 5am and 8pm daily, with Friday prayers in mosques not exceeding one hour. Daily updates on the reopening of mosques all over the world will be provided so be sure to download the HalalTrip App to stay updated, here! Stay safe and stay healthy. ...
Planning a getaway to restart your life after the pandemic? Great idea! Why not plan for a road trip, especially in Australia since it has some spectacular routes and scenic drives as you traverse this large island continent? A road trip will also give you an opportunity to revive long-standing relationships with friends whom you have been social distancing from recently. And, you can do this while taking in the awe-inspiring scenes, hidden natural wonders, and some out-of-the-way places which can only be reached via a road! What is more, a road trip does away with the tedious tasks of extreme budgeting, applying for visas, considering travel restrictions, and embarking on a long flight to reach your destination. It allows you to travel at your own pace, it can nicely work out on a limited budget, and there is no fuss on what to wear – comfort-wear is the way to go! Most importantly, it enables you to create your own unique route while traveling. Road trips are a convenient way for you to travel with your friends after Covid-19 and it is expected to rise with domestic travel will begin to recover first. To help you plan for your next road trip, here are 10 best road trips in Australia! via GIPHY 1. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria Image Credit: Mateusz Glogowski on Unsplash This is one famed road trip route taking you across the southern coast of Australia from between Torquay and Warrnambool, Allansford, or a little further to Port Fairy in Victoria. The Great Ocean Road, completed in 1932 as a First World War memorial, showcases breath-taking clifftop vistas, wildlife, shipwrecks, and the never-ending coastlines while passing through quaint towns and rain forest. Things to do and see: Bells Beach, 12 Apostles, Erskine Falls, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell National Park, Loch Ard Gorge, the Island Archway, the cliff-face Gibson Steps, Cape Otway lighthouse, Great Otway National Park, Lorne, Anglesea, Peterborough, the historic fishing village of Port Fairy, and many delicious eateries along the way. Time frame: The route is about 9.5 hours (approximately a 250-kilometre drive). So, a day-trip is possible and done often if you want to enjoy only the passing scenery. But the best way to take in all the sights and sounds and venture further afield is a three to four-day road trip along these most famous road trip routes. 2. The Great Beach Drive, Queensland Image Credit: Tim Foster on Unsplash; You can get a nice view of the beautiful sunrise at Hervey Bay while on this route. For those of you living in Queensland, you need not go too far to catch some scenic views and some of the best routes for a road trip. The Great Beach Drive is the famed road trip on some of the Sunshine Coast’s most stunning beaches leading to Fraser Island and the Fraser Coast while meandering through UNESCO Heritage sites, national parks, and many historically significant landscapes. While traversing this most wonderful of road routes, you will be privy to whale, dolphin, turtle, platypus, kangaroo, and rare bird sightings. Don't miss out on the Hervey Bay; you can get a nice view of the beautiful sunrise and sunset here! Things to do and see: Noosa Biosphere, Great Sandy Biosphere, wildlife sightings, picnics, camping inside national parks, off-road driving, Double Island Point lighthouse, Hervey Bay, Teewah beach, Rainbow beach, surfing, kayaking, swimming, Great Barrier Reef, hiking and trekking, and Fraser Island - the largest sand island in the world. Time frame: The route is about 168 hours (a 380-kilometre drive). Take a three to seven-day road trip along the Great Beach Drive or even longer, depending on how long you want your getaway trip to be and what you want to explore with your friends. 3. The Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales Image Credit: Mara Page on Unsplash; The Grand Pacific Drive will lead you to some of the iconic places in Australia such as the whitest sand beach, Hyams beach at Jervis Bay. For those in New South Wales, the Grand Pacific Drive will lead you along some of the territory’s most memorable places and coastal scenes through a 140-kilometre bitumen road. Things to do and see: Sydney’s Royal National Park, Wollongong, Shellharbour, Sea Cliff Bridge, booming blowholes at Kiama, Austinmer Beach, Nan Tien Temple, hang-gliding, paragliding Minamurra Rainforest, whitest sand beaches in the world at Jervis Bay, and Jamberoo Action Park. Timeframe: The route is just a few hours (approximately a 140-kilometre drive) and an ideal one-day road trip for anyone from Sydney, Canberra, or other neighboring areas. However, there is nothing to stop you from making this road trip a longer vacation by staying over in any one of the towns or reserves along the way. 4. Great Alpine Road, Victoria Image Credit: Linda Xu on Unsplash; Experience the beauty of lush mountains at Mount Buffalo National Park Another scenic drive starts off at Wangaratta in Victoria and traverses through the Victorian High Country and ends at Metung in the Gippsland Lakes region. The Great Alpine road trip will stun you with its fabulous Alpine scenes, mountain ranges, deep valleys, wine country, and sparkling waterways. This route will let you revel in the beauty of the mountains while enjoying some relaxation time with close friends whether you live in New South Wales or in Victoria! Things to do and see: Be inspired and rejuvenated by the lush mountains and rain forests, Mount Buffalo National Park, Gorge Lookout at Mt Buffalo, unique rock formations, and waterfalls. You can also try activities like mountain biking, trekking, and horse riding with your friends. Drive through Victoria’s highest alpine village, and view the 1,750 meter above sea-level Mt Hotham. Don't forget to visit towns such as Beechworth, Bright, and Omeo to experience the local hospitality. Time frame: The road trip is approximately 500 kilometres and best enjoyed through a week where you can take in the scenes and enjoy the local hospitality. 5. Cairns to Cape York Peninsula, Queensland Image Credit: Photo by Pierre-Henry de Soria on Unsplash; Drop by the Palm Cove while on this route, and spend some time with your friends, catching up. A Sunshine Coast epic journey is the road trip starting from Cairns and ending at the Cape York Peninsula. While this route is not common, unlike the Cairns to Cape Tribulations road trip, it will take you through the World Heritage-listed, Great Barrier Reef to the ancient World Heritage Daintree National Park across red sand, rain forests, many national parks, indigenous history and culture, and scenic views like no other. While the drive is said to be bumpy and does not boast much comfort, it is a once in a lifetime adventure and a chance to experience a simple lifestyle! Things to do and see: Palm Cove, Port Douglas, Daintree National Park, river crossings, ancient rock art at The Quinkan Galleries at Laura, rainforests, Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, camping, Lakefield National Park, traverse the Old Telegraph Track, and walk to The Tip – the northern most point of Australia. Time frame: The route is about 14 hours (approximately a 1,000-kilometre one-way drive). Considering the dirt roads, raw terrain, and the need to do a round trip while exploring places and experiences the region, a minimum two-week road trip is called for. If you really are short on time, consider a one-way drive and return by air. 6. Gibb River Road, Western Australia Image Credit: jancolaco from Pixabay; Enjoy the Kimberley gorges on the Gibb River Road. Western Australia’s Gibb River Road is another epic Australian road trip route for the adventurous. This route beginning and ending from Derby to Wyndham, or vice versa, will take you through the Kimberley region. Traveling through the outback on dusty roads will require a four-wheel drive, but the journey will take you through national parks, waterfalls, plateaus, gorges, natural wonders and lets you soak in the 50 to 60 thousand-year-old indigenous Australian culture. Things to do and see: Crocodile sighting; Windjana Gorge National Park; Mitchell Falls and Mitchell Plateau; El Questro; ziplining; King Leopold Ranges; visit outback cattle stations; compare and contrast between the Adcock, Manning, Galvans, Leonard, and Bell Gorges; Zebedee Springs; and Tunnel Creek. Time frame: Approximately a 660-kilometre route with only two roadhouses along the way – at Imintji and Mt Barnett. An ideal road trip would be a week-long, and more if you plan to stay and visit some out of the way places. Be prepared with extra fuel which can be expensive to purchase. 7. Red Centre Way, Northern Territory Image Credit: Philippe Wuyts on Unsplash; Kings Canyon, a must-visit to enjoy spectacular views! The Northern Territory’s Red Centre Way is another epic and very cliched Australian road trip over sealed and unsealed roads. The route takes you through several mountain ranges, red earth deserts, isolated rocks, fresh swimming holes, ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, and historic towns. So, get ready for one epic Australian outback road trip experience! Things to do and see: Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, and West MacDonnell ranges; walking and hiking; Finke Gorge National Park; Watarrka National Park, the only place to see the red cabbage palm; the spirited lands of mulga forest; and the spinifex. Time frame: A loop route of about 1,135 kilometres starting at Alice Springs and taking you through Uluru and Kings Canyon is a 5 to 6-day road trip. 8. The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia to Western Australia Image Credits: Simon Maisch on Unsplash; Create unforgettable memories with your friends here at Nullarbor, South Australia If you are living somewhere in South or Western Australia, consider taking the Nullarbor Plain road trip which stretches across Ceduna/Adelaide in South Australia and Perth in Western Australia. While quite remote, the desert highway is an easy route meandering through the goldfields of Western Australia and the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. If you enjoy off-road driving, then use a four-wheel drive to ride through wide-open spaces, sand dunes, and wooded hills while re-hashing some legendary UFO stories and old-time myths with friends. Things to do and see: Bragging rights to having seen and driven on the largest piece of limestone on earth; strange landscapes which the Nullarbor Plain is renowned for; wildlife such as giant wedge-tailed eagles, emus, kangaroos, dingoes, and camels; whale watching beneath the world's longest line of sea cliffs; the world’s longest golf course; unique caves; riding over sand dunes; ruins of Eucla Telegraph Station built in the 1870s; and camping under the starlit skies. Time frame: An ideal 6-day road trip of 1,256 kilometres which requires some preparation due to it being remote. So, carry enough fuel, water, and other essential supplies. 9. Heritage Highway, Tasmania Image Credit: Samuel Scrimshaw on Unsplash; Rural Building at Tasmania, Australia. Living in Tasmania? No worries… This little island has quite a few road trips on offer from the Tassie Loop, to the route from Hobart to Freycinet, and of course the famed Heritage Highway. The Heritage highway which runs between Hobart and Launceston is a 200-year-old road built by convict road gangs in the 1800s. The highway meanders through some scenic views of farmlands, Georgian villages, grand rural estates and the authentic scenes of Tasmania’s historic midlands. Things to do and see: Visit the towns of Oatlands, Longford, Evandale, Cressy, and Perth; enjoy some gourmet food; Heritage Highway Museum and Visitors Centre in Campbell Town; Shene Estate & Distillery; and the Chauncy Vale Wildlife Sanctuary. Time frame: A short 2 to 3 days road trip of approximately 200 kilometres. 10. The Big Lap, Australia Image Credit: Martyna Bober on Unsplash; Visit the Bondi Beach at Sydney, one of the most famous beach destinations. Last but certainly not the least… we have “The Big Lap”, a spectacular adventure around the entire country. Try this fabulous road trip of 15,000 kilometres using Highway One around the edge of Australia as you take in the changing scenes and landscapes of the country’s diverse territories and mixed natural environs. The big lap route will take you through seven capital cities, ride through rain forests and the red earth deserts, cruise along the coastline, and enjoy the vast emptiness of the outback. Things to do and see: Everything and anything that you fancy from the coastline between Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Broome, Perth, Esperance, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Hobart. Time frame: To truly experience the big lap, you will need at least six months, so, consider this a final hurrah kind of road trip adventure! In ending this article, let me say that depending on the amount of time you have for a vacation, some of these road trip routes can be combined with some fun activities to make it a super adventure. So, take this chance; do not agonize about limited overseas travel, but instead, make the most of exploring your own country and enjoying a relaxing, fun-filled time with your friends! Don't forget to download the HalalTrip App, here, for more travel tips, prayer times and Qibla Direction, and many more! via GIPHY...
The COVID-19 situation has placed some business on a halt, some may have even closed their doors. We have seen how entertainment centers, tourist attractions, zoos, and even museums were affected by this outbreak. There is no denying that technology has made life simpler, making us feel that the world is at our fingertips. As travel bans have been imposed all around the world, you may have heard about virtual traveling. Exploring the world at the comfort of your home might not give you the best experience but think about its convenience; you don't have to deal with the crowd! Even better, some of these tours are free! From the deepest part of the world to local zoos to historical and art museums; there's an abundance of virtual tours made available for you. Can't travel to visit these iconic museums? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here are 10 best virtual museum tours you need to check out in 2020! via GIPHY 1. The British Museum, London Image Credit: Ryan Stefan on Unsplash The British Museum in London was opened in 1759 and was the first national public museum in the world. You can learn about human histories and culture dated way back to over two million years.There are several ways for you to enjoy these historic artifacts. Explore the virtual museum tours through Google Street View. You can visit up to 60 over galleries like the Egyptian sculpture gallery and The World of Alexander. You can also view an infographic timeline of each artifact through History Connected. You can easily read through the facts or even listen to the audio made available. It is very informative and must not be missed by all history buffs! For those of you who had always dreamed of visiting this museum, this is your chance. And the best part is, it's free! Website 2. The Broad, Los Angeles Image Credit: Tu Tram Pham on UnsplashThe Broad in Los Angeles features contemporary art from the 1950s to the present. With almost 2,000 pieces of artwork, you can find collections from influential contemporary artists like Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama.Get inspired by the effort made by The Broad to bring this wonderful experience to you at home. Watch one of The Broad's famous installations, Yayoi Kasuma's Infinity Mirrored Room, over some lights and sounds environment. If you want to find activities you can do with the kids, get inspired through the family workshops at home series. It contains step-by-step tutorials that you can enjoy with your family. If you can't get over the Infinity Mirrored Room, then you can learn how to create one from one of the videos.Website 3. National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Image Credit: Mitchell Luo on Unsplash National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia, is one of the oldest museums to exist in the country. Founded in 1861, you can find artworks from both local and international artists, ranging from contemporary art, fashion, architecture, and dance.Fans of KAWS, you no longer have to feel disappointed about missing this exhibition. Now available via virtual tours, head down to the website to visit KAWS: Companionship in the Age of Loneliness exhibition. Other exhibitions you can visit virtually includes the 'Japanese Modernism' and 'Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines.' The latter exhibition is worth visiting as you can listen to the audio tour by the curator himself. Wonderful isn't it? Website 4. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul Image Credit: National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has established four museums in different venues; Gwacheon, Deoksugung, Seoul, and Cheongju. It is one of the most famous museums in Korea that showcases Korea's art and culture. The four museums are unique; each showcasing different aspects of art and culture in Korea but are geared towards a common goal which is to provide a rewarding cultural experience to visitors. You can find various artworks ranging from literature to calligraphy, architecture to design, and family-oriented space and children's museum.One of the ways you can enjoy a tour around the museum is through the official website. You can watch tour videos on Jonathan Borofsky's Singing Man or Kim Whanki's Two Moon. Meanwhile, on Google Art & Culture, you can view more collections from renowned artistes or even go on a virtual tour on all levels.Website 5. Musée d’Orsay, Paris Image Credit: Armand Khoury on Unsplash Musée d’Orsay in Paris, France, holds French artworks dated way back in 1848 to 1914. These artworks range from painting, sculpture, furniture, and photographs. Fans of impressionist will find solace in this museum, witnessing artworks from renowned painters like Monet and Van Gogh.As Musée d’Orsay used to be a railway station, you may catch a glimpse of its history through an online exhibition called From Station to the Renovated Musée d'Orsay. Apart from that, get inspired by the canvas painting and oil painting made available for you in Google Art & Culture. You can now enjoy the artworks from this exhibition in the comfort of your home!Website 6. China Paper Cutting Museum, Yangzhou Image Credit: China Paper Cutting Museum on Discover China The China Paper Cutting Museum in Yangzhou holds a diverse collection of paper-cutting arts from around the country. With almost 400 pieces of artwork, its genre ranged from landscapes, birds and flowers, and plants, and insects. Paper-cutting art has always been important to Chinese folk culture. These delicate and detailed arts may leave you in awe and keep you inspired in many ways.You can view the artwork virtually from local artistes via the online exhibitions made available. If you wanna try making some paper cutting art, how about watching the online exhibition called 'The Art of Cutting Paper by Zhang Muli?' All you need is just a pair of scissors and some paper. Time to get crafty! Website 7. Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, Kyoto Image Credit: Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts The Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, also known as Fureaikan, features Kyoto's traditional crafts. With almost 500 collections ranging from Kimonos, lacquerwares, and textiles, there is always something to see and learn on Kyoto crafts.The traditional garment Kimono has always featured beautiful and intricate designs. Learn its history from the online exhibition, 'The Ancient History Making and Wearing a Kimono' and 'Historical Development of Kimono Pattern'. The beautiful textiles of a Kimono will leave you in awe, as you learn to appreciate them more given that the time and effort it takes to make the textiles can be excruciating. Website 8. Singapore Art Museum, Singapore Image Credit: The Singapore Art Museum The Singapore Art Museum is dedicated to contemporary art based in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Whether the museum is closed for major transformation or due to the COVID-19 situation, you can still visit the museum and view the exhibitions virtually. Singapore Art Museum has been an organizer for the Singapore Biennale in four different years. If you missed it, you may get the chance to view the last years' collections in the online exhibition 'Singapore Biennale 2019: Every Step in the Right Direction.' You can also go on a virtual walk in the museum and explore all levels that are made available.Website 9. National Museum of Natural Science, Taichung Image Credit: National Museum of Natural Science on Taichung Travel Net If you want to skip the art and history, or if you are just into nature and science, then this museum is for you! The National Museum of Natural Science in Taichung, Taiwan, covers exhibitions like astronomy, space science, and ecology. With over 50 permanent exhibitions to look out for, there is always something for everyone to learn from, be it adults or children.As one of the most visited museums in Taiwan, there shouldn't be a reason to skip this museum especially when you can visit it virtually!. Run through the 100 specimens of different departments; geology, botany, zoology, and anthropology in this online exhibition. You will never leave this virtual tour without learning something new, we promise! Website 10. Fubon Art Foundation, Taipei Image Credit: Fubon Art Foundation Fubon Art Foundation may be a little different from the rest of the museums on this list. Its aim is to promote art education and support art-based events. To incorporate art into one's lifestyle, it is not necessary to visit a museum or a gallery. Hence, "Very Fun Park" is established where people can experience art from the streets and alleyways in the city.Don't be sad if your trip to Taiwan is canceled, and you can't witness these awesome artworks. Now, you can navigate through the online galleries and view the various installations from different contemporary visual artists. The colorful and unique installations are interesting to look at; it makes you want to witness them in real life too!Website If you think that you can't experience new things without leaving your house, then you are wrong! This list of virtual museum tours will occupy your time, give you some inspiration, relax your mind, and perhaps, allow you to learn something new. If these museums piqued your interest, then you can include them in your itinerary the next time you are traveling! via GIPHY...
Planning a family trip where everyone can enjoy themselves can be exciting but stressful as well. After Covid-19, it is expected that domestic travel will recover first. Why not use this time to plan for a road trip in Malaysia? Going on a road trip is a great way to bond and spend quality time with your family! Whether you are planning for a short weekend getaway or a vacation, Malaysia has so much to offer! Malaysia is ideal for family road trips as there are so many destinations that you can explore and enjoy with your family. Here are 10 best family road trips in Malaysia! via GIPHYAlso Read: Here Is What Travel Will Look Like After Covid-19 1. Kota Tinggi to Desaru Image Credit: Kota Tinggi Waterfalls Resort It will take approximately 50 mins to drive down from Kota Tinggi to Desaru, hence making it an ideal short weekend getaway to enjoy with your family. Bring your family for a picnic and take a dip in the Kota Tinggi Waterfall. This spectacular view offers serenity, allowing us to relax and unwind. If you have more time to spare in Kota Tinggi, you can also visit the Kota Tinggi Firefly Park. Participate in outdoor studies with your family and get close to nature. This can be a fun yet enriching experience for the family! Image Credit: Desaru Fruit Farm More family-fun activities await you in Desaru. Drive down to Desaru Fruit Farm and learn how to grow various kinds of fruits. On top of that, you can even do a taste testing of the fruits you have picked. You can also bring the kids to feed the ostriches at the Desaru Ostrich Farm. My best pick will be the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, which can be enjoyed by people of all ages - adults and kids alike. 2. Port Dickson to Malacca Image Credit: Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson This trip is another ideal short getaway that you can consider. Stay for a night in Port Dickson and the following day, you can drive down to Malacca in less than 1.5 hours. Port Dickson is the best place to relax and rewind. Book one of the water chalets available like Lexis Hibiscus and enjoy a night stay. Nothing can go wrong with spending quality with the family in a private pool. Image Credit: St. Paul's Church on Lonely Planet The following day, you can take a drive to Malacca. There are many historical sites that you can visit in Malacca, which is known for its rich history. Head down to A Famosa and walk up the small hill to reach St. Paul's Church. Image Credit: Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum There are also plenty of museums around the area that you can visit too, like Flora de la Mar Maritime Museum and the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum. If you happened to be in Klebang area, you must not miss the Klebang Original Coconut Shake! Nothing can beat teatime with some traditional Malay kuih (delicious!) and a cup of coconut shake topped with vanilla ice cream (yummy!). 3. Kuala Lumpur to Penang Image Credit: Wayne Chew on Unsplash No matter how long you are planning to stay in Kuala Lumpur, there are always things to see and do. It has become mandatory to take a trip to PETRONAS tower whenever one is in Kuala Lumpur. There are various things to see and do around the area like exploring Aquaria KLCC, visiting the aquarium, or shop at Suria KLCC. After spending some time sightseeing and shopping at Kuala Lumpur, continue your journey down the road for about 4 hours to reach a UNESCO heritage town, George Town in Penang. Image Credit: Dark Mansion More fun-filled activities await you in Penang. Visit Dark Mansion, a 3D trick art museum unlike the normal, because they glow in the dark! Your kids will definitely enjoy this, we promise! Image Credit: Penang Hill on Facebook One of my best take in Penang will be Penang Hill. Ride up the funicular ride to enjoy breathtaking views, learn heritage and culture, and enjoy mother nature. Make sure to feast on their local delights like Char Kuay Teow and Assam Laksa. Penang houses some affordable cafes too so be sure to check that out with your family! 4. Ipoh to Cameron Highlands Image Credit: Old Town Ipoh on Lonely Planet If you are looking for a lush greenery view on a trip, this road trip is made for you. The drive from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands takes about 2 hours. Firstly, wander down Old Town in Ipoh and discover the street arts and cute streets. You can also visit the city's gem such as Kellie's Castle and Birch Memorial Clock Tower. Once you're done exploring Ipoh's beautiful landmark and art, take a trip to Cameron Highlands. Image Credit: Strawberry Farms on visitmalaysia.info Meanwhile, at Cameron Highlands, you can bring your family out for some outdoor activities. Don't miss out on fun activities like strawberry picking in the strawberry farm, visiting the butterfly farm, and exploring the lavender garden. At the end of the day, spend some quality family time over steamboat in Cameron Highlands. 5. Johor Bahru to Mersing Image Credit: Legoland Malaysia on Facebook Our trip down to Johor Bahru will always be about the food or groceries on the usual days. How about a short getaway, let's say a 2-days 1-night trip with a detour to Mersing? In less than 2 hours drive, you can get to Mersing from Johor Bahru. Over at Johor Bahru, you can visit Legoland, a popular theme park that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Spend a day with your family here; enjoy the rides and attractions it has to offer. Image Credit: Kishor on Unsplash After having some fun at Legoland, you can drive to Mersing. Mersing is all about the beautiful beaches and white sands. You can opt for snorkeling and island hopping in Mersing if your family is up for it. My best take in Mersing is to book a resort and enjoy a relaxing time at the beaches with your loved ones. 6. Sepang to Genting Highlands Image Credit: Sepang International Circuit If you think that Sepang is only home to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, you are wrong. There are some fun-filled activities that you can do with your family here. In less than a 2 hours drive, you can get to Genting Highlands and the fun continues. Sepang is known for its Formula One race circuit, but if you're not in Sepang to watch one, head down to Avani Gold Coast Resort. You may choose to stay a night here or visit the Extreme Park for some activities like Go-kart, archery, and ATV jungle trail. Image Credit: Resorts World Genting Next, take a 2-hour drive to Genting Highlands. Enjoy the rides and attractions at the outdoor theme park, which caters to both kids and adults. You might also want to check the indoor theme park and video game park. Hop on the Awana Skyway; you can enjoy the spectacular view from a distance together with your loved ones. 7. Kuantan to Kuala Terengganu Image Credit: The Sungai Pandan Waterfall on Hotel Grand Continental Kuantan For me, Kuantan is an underrated city. Not many tourists visit this beautiful destination. In less than a 3-hour drive from Kuantan, you can reach your destination, Kuala Terengganu. In Kuantan, you can find several beautiful waterfalls. In my opinion, Sungai Pandan Waterfall will be an ideal spot if you are on this road trip with young kids or the elderly. Make a trip to Kula Cakes to eat the local's favorite Mango Cheesecakes. This store should be in every cheesecake lovers' list as they serve other unique flavors as well. Image Credit: Terengganu State Museum on Malaysia.travel After all that fun, drive to Kuala Terengganu for a heritage tour. Visit the Terengganu State Museum to learn about the history and culture of this place. Don't forget to also visit Pantai Batu Burok to enjoy the scenic beach view. 8. Bukit Tinggi to Kuala Selangor Image Credit: Berjaya Hills on visitmalaysia.info Another two locations that are off the beaten track should be on your list if you want to have a unique experience. It takes a 1.5-hour drive to get you to Kuala Selangor from Bukit Tinggi. The Japanese Tea House in Bukit Tinggi, also known as Berjaya Hills, offers you a soulful retreat. Explore the French-themed Colmar Tropicale and the zen-inspired Japanese garden. The rabbit farm is a must-visit for families; you can play and feed the cute little furry friends. Image Credit: Mount Melawati on The Star Next, drive to Kuala Selangor which takes about 1.5 hours. You can hike up Mount Melawati with your family and learn more about the history behind this notable hill. Also, make time to visit the Kuala Selangor Nature Park and walk through the mangroves. You can spot various species of birds here too! You should also try the Cendol Bakar. The preparation of the gula Melaka in this cendol is different from those of the normal cendol out there. 9. Banting to Sekinchan Image Credit: Tadom Hill Resorts This trip is catered to you if you're bringing along pre-teen kids or older who are adventurous and love outdoor activities. It takes 2 hours to reach Sekinchan by car from Banting. First, enjoy various adrenaline attractions in Banting. Head down to Tadom Hill Resorts, where you can enjoy activities like ATV and water swings. If you want to try some paragliding, you can hike up Bukit Jugra. Otherwise, you can just enjoy the scenic view from the peak with your family. Next, take a 2-hour drive to Sekinchan. Expect to see the lush green field of paddy in Sekinchan as it is home to the Paddy Processing Factory. Don't forget to drop by any of the small businesses selling tropical fruits nearby. The juicy giant mangoes, soursops, and guavas can quench your thirst over the hot day (Yum!). 10. Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang Image Credit: Sosodikon Hill on Facebook Located in Sabah, both Kota Kinabalu and Kundasang offers you scenic locations with fresh mountain air. Just about a 2-hour drive, you can get from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang. You don't always have to hike up Mount Kinabalu when you're in Kota Kinabalu. If you still want to enjoy some mountain views but don't want to break a sweat, visit Sosodikon Hill. Don't forget to visit the Asquare Kota Kinabalu, the first creative container night food market in Kota Kinabalu. You will be spoilt for choices with over 60 varieties of food to choose from different street vendors. Image Credit: Desa Dairy Farm on Facebook Next, take a 2-hour drive to Kundasang. You can visit Desa Dairy Farm in Kundasang with the kids and feed the calves and goats while enjoying some freshly made gelato. I'm sure your kids will enjoy this activity! Also Read: 10 Tips On How To Prepare For A Road Trip There you have it, the 10 best family road trips in Malaysia. So what are you waiting for? Start planning for your next road trip to Malaysia now! via GIPHY ...
During this Covid-19 pandemic where most of us are staying home to prevent the spread of the virus, I'm sure many of us have thought about travelling after Covid-19. Some of us may have spent some time at home thinking about the perfect destination to go. It could be somewhere new, or somewhere with a beautiful view, as long as we get to spend quality time with our family and friends. Domestic travel is expected to recover first after Covid-19 and going on road trips would thus be the most common way for people to travel with their family and friends. Imagine all the scenic views you can enjoy with your loved ones! A road trip is certainly one of the best ways to enrich your travel experience. To help you out in creating the best experience for a road trip, especially for first-timers, here are 10 tips on how to prepare for a road trip! via GIPHY 1. Prepare Your Vehicle Image Credit: Ian Noble on Unsplash To have a pleasant and safe road trip, pick the best vehicle for this road trip that suits the terrain and the number of people you will bring along. Will it be a 4- seated car, SUV, minivan, or RV? You surely do not want your vehicle crowded with people. A pleasant road trip could be obtained by planning which type of vehicle best suits the number of people you are bringing along for this road trip. Furthermore, it is very important to check your vehicle performance before going on a road trip. Make sure to do checks on your vehicle and if possible, get the mechanics to check your vehicle’s fluids, tires and brakes at least 3 days before a road trip. Also, prepare a fully inflated spare tire, vehicle jack, basic vehicle repair tools, jumper cables, and wiper fluids. After that, be sure to clean your vehicle before going on a road trip and be sure to dispose of trash at the right place during the trip. Having a clean vehicle would certainly elevate everyone’s mood and make travelling more comfortable. 2. Plan Your Road Trip Ahead Image Credit: Simon Migaj on Unsplash Plan your road trip ahead by doing some research. Have insights about your road trip’s destination and its routes. It is important that you are fully aware of where you are going, how long you will take to get there, and the route options available. Also, book your accommodations ahead to avoid going to a fully booked one. This is to save you time from all the hassle on the day of the road trip itself. Also, think about the rest stops that you can stop at to perform Salah, have a meal, and restroom breaks. However, to have the best road trip experience, be flexible. Planning for the road trip is important but try not to be too fixated on sticking to your timetable as road trips can be really fun if it is done more spontaneously. 3. Travel With The Right People Image Credit: Matheus Ferrero on Unsplash We must add this to our list! Traveling is not only about where or how we travel but also with whom we travel. Picking your best travel buddies can be an important factor that makes this road trip fun. By travelling with the right people, those that you are more comfortable with can make the road trip fun and exciting. It is also recommended to have at least two people who can drive on your road trip so that you both can take turns driving on the road. Also, it is better to have someone who knows how to navigate. It is best for the navigator to sit next to the driver to help and assist the driver on the road. This is to make things easier and more convenient on the road. However, if you are the only driver, you can still make the road trip fun. Just be sure to take frequent rest, drink more water as well as eat some snacks to keep you energized. 4. Prepare An Offline Playlist Image Credit: Tobias Tullius on Unsplash Be sure to have enough entertainment on the road. Without it, having a road trip could be boring. It is important to keep everyone entertained, especially the driver to avoid drowsiness while driving. Therefore, we suggest preparing an offline playlist for your road trip beforehand in case there is a bad signal on the road. You can add a variety of songs, as well as songs suitable for kids if you are travelling with kids, in order to keep them entertained. If you like to listen to podcasts on your road trip, be sure to check out our article here. 5. Bring Extra Cash Image Credit: Chris Lawton on Unsplash You might have already prepared a fixed budget plan for your road trip but bringing extra cash will not hurt everyone. Our safety tips for a road trip is to always bring extra cash, at least enough to fully fill up your vehicle’s gas tank. You can put the extra cash inside your pockets or any hidden place to use for any emergency situation. Remember that it is always best to be safe! 6. Bring Enough Essential Items Image Credit: Tai's Captures on Unsplash To make it easier for you, we have listed some essential items for you to bring to your road trip after Covid-19. You can bring face masks, hand sanitizer, a small bag like a fanny pack or sling bag, medicines, enough clothes and a warm jacket or jumper, one pair of shoes or sandals for spare use, fully charged power banks, tissue paper, lotion, mukena, prayer rugs, travel pillow, sunglasses, cap or hat, and a camera. Also, do not forget to bring your ID cards like your driver’s license! 7. Prepare Your Body And Mind Image Credit: Ben Kolde on Unsplash You not only have to prepare your vehicle, but also prepare your body and mind before going on this road trip. To keep yourself and your travel buddies energized, eat a meal before going on this road trip. Never skip your breakfast! A healthy meal before a road trip could sustain your energy, which is important for the road trip. Also, make sure to stretch and make dua before starting your road trip journey. Other than that, plan for driving breaks. Stop for at least 15 minutes for every 4-hour drive. 8. Bring Healthy Snacks And Stay Hydrated Image Credit: Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash Keep yourself hydrated along the way by drinking at least 2 liters of water per day. Make sure to bring enough water for everyone. Other than that, snacks are also road trip essentials. It is believed that snacks can keep you awake and more energized. This is especially important for the driver who may be driving for long hours on the road. You could start with a simple snack such as gums, snack bars, or nuts. However, keep in mind that everyone has their own preferences when it comes to snacks, so be sure to bring your own favourite snacks. Also, do not litter and ensure that you dispose of your trash in its rightful place. 9. Stay Adventurous Photo by Coleen Rivas on Unsplash You can make your road trip fun by staying adventurous. The keyword to it is to just stay local! Staying local means eating local food, buying local snacks, and getting other local-made items. This is the best way to have an enriching road trip. This way, you can gain knowledge of the local culture. Try popular local food and explore interesting cultural sites on your road trip journey. Be adventurous; you never know what you will find ahead that can make your road trip memorable. Visiting places with local cuisine and culture can make your road trip memory beautiful and unforgettable! 10. Have Fun Image Credit: Timon Studler on Unsplash The last tip on how to prepare for your road trip is to have fun. Leave your problems at home. We don't need them here, especially on this road trip, because this is the time for adventures and new experiences. This is the time that we have all been waiting for! So, the key to having fun is to be spontaneous. Be open to trying new things that you have discovered on the journey to your destination. Stop by safely at some interesting places along the way and capture these moments with your mobile phone or cameras. That's all we have for today, tips for you on how to prepare for a road trip. Do not forget to perform dua and sunnah on your road trip. For those of you who have worries about missing out prayer times, having difficulties finding Qibla, Halal restaurants, or hotels, simply download the HalalTrip to get the best Muslim travel insights here! Stay healthy and stay safe readers! via GIPHY ...
Prayer times for Johor Bahru,Malaysia
Amin Ismail
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