Sabah, Malaysia - Top Ten Major Tourist Attractions

The following are the top ten major tourist attractions at Sabah:

Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain in South-east Asia, rising to 4,101meters in north-western East Malaysia. You can find variety of plants which consist of 1200 species. In year 2000, UNESCO declared Mount Kinabalu as "The World Natural Heritage in Malaysia"

Turtle Island Park

Turtle Island Park is located at Sulu Sea, off the east coast of Sabah. You may find three beautiful small islands over the Turtle Island Park, Selingan, Gulisan and Bakungan Kechil Island. The main activities over these islands is to see turtle laying eggs. The best time to visit these islands is between July and October when the sea is calmer.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park consist of five islands, they are Gaya Island, Mamutik Island, Manukan Island, Sapi Island and Sulug Island. The nature lovers are attracted by the shallow waters, sumptuous coral gardens, scuba diving, the sandy beaches and enjoying the beautiful flora and fauna.

Gomantong Caves

Gomantong Caves located at the eastern lowlands of Sabah, are the intricate limestone cave system of Gomantong Hill. Collection of birds' nests is the main activities of the caves, WWF described it as 'the best-managed edible birds nest cave in the world'. The harvesting season is around February to April and July to September.

Sabah State Museum

Sabah State Museum was built in 1985. The attractions for this museum are handicraft, collection of ceramics, traditional weapons, traditional houses and in summary you can get to know the Sabah's history, culture and social by just having a one day tour.

Poring Hot Spring

Poring Hot Spring is located within the Kinabalu Park. The sulfuric hot waters of the springs can make you feel relax and rest your limbs after climbing the Mt Kinabalu. You may also have chance to see the world's largest flower, Rafflesia over here. Remember to stop at the native market for fruits and handicrafts along the way.

Kinabatangan River

Kinabatangan River begins its 563 km north-easterly course towards the Sulu Sea, this is the second longest river of Malaysia and the longest river over Sabah. You must visit to the limestone caves, reverie forest, freshwater swamp forest, oxbow lakes and salty mangrove swamps when you reach there.

Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island is one of the top five dive sites in the world, it also surrounded by the most amazing marine animals. Sipadan is an oceanic island and was formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct undersea volcano. Sipadan Island also gather the green and hawksbill turtles to mate and nest at the beach.

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre was established in 1964. The primary objective of the centre is to rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned baby orangutan and prepares them for life in the jungle. You will have chance to see others wild animals like hornbills, spiders and 200 species of birds too.

Semporna

Semporna is known as the scuba diving and snorkeling spot. Each year, in the month of April, the traditional boat race, Regatta Lepa will be conducting at this Island too. Bajau is their major population and they live in sprawling stilt villages over the water and away from the town. Their main source of income is from the pearl culturing.

By visiting Sabah, for sure you will have an unforgettable experience; check out http://www.1asiantravel.com for other attractive tour destinations over Malaysia.

Mary is the founder of http://www.1asiantravel.com, a website that offers information on tour destination, hotel information for Asian countries. She is a natural lover and a mother of few kids.

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National Parks of Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, is located in eastern part of Malaysia. It lies on the northwest coast of Borneo, which is itself the third largest island in the world. The state is the first choice of wildlife lovers in Malaysia. Forests are the most valuable asset of Sarawak which holds the national parks of the likes of Gunung Mulu, Niah, Bako, Talang Satang, Lambir Hills and Similajau.

Gunung Mulu National Park
Gunung Mulu National Park, the most famous of Sarawak parks, is visited for its clear forest streams, diversity of wildlife and rainforests. However, the topmost among the Gunung Mulu are its large limestone cave systems. The cave system is nothing less than a marvel. The park boasts of the cave systems like Sarawak Chamber, the world's largest natural chamber; Clearwater Cave, the longest cave in Southeast Asia; and Deer Cave, the world's largest cave passage.

Niah National Park
Archaeological assets make Niah National special. The huge cave sheltered humans some 30,000 to 40,000 years ago. The oldest human remains in Southeast Asia have been discovered in Niah National Park. The Painted Cave, bedecked by early humans, is another attraction of Niah Cave. Both the caves have been granted the status of National Historical Monuments by the Malaysian government.

Bako National Park
Bako is just 45 minutes from Kuching, the provincial capital, making it the most accessible among Sarawak parks. For seeing wildlife, it is the best among all parks in Sarawak. One gets plenty of chances to observe and photograph wildlife. For seeing the best of wildlife, you must visit the park at dawn or dusk. There are some very good trails for trekkers. An array of activities makes it among the most popular parks in Sarawak.

Talang Satang National Park
Talang Satang, developed with objective of marine turtle conservation, is the first national park in Sarawak having significant marine landscape. The park is comprised of the islands of Pulau Satang Besar, Pulau Satang Kecil, Pulau Talang-Talang Besar, and Pulau Talang-Talang Kecil. You could visit it some good marine beauty and creatures.

Lambir Hills National Park
Located 30km off Miri town, Lambir has good value for recreational and educational purposes. The park has several good waterfalls, a high tree tower and the trail systems consisting primary, secondary and tertiary trails.

Similajau National Park
Scenic coastal region is what makes Similajau distinct. Located just 30km off Bintulu town, it has several places of tourist interest including Batu Mandi, Selunsur Rapid, Turtle Beach, View Point, Batu Anchau, Golden Beach, Sebubong Pool and the trails.

Dinesh Patairya has been writing on Malaysia Vacations [http://www.yourasianvacations.com/malaysia/index.html] for several online and offline publications for several years. This article is part of his assignment with YourAsianVacations.com.

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Travel Vaccination Tips

The number of people who travel has exploded in the past 5 years due to the rise of budget carriers. People who would never have been able to afford flying to far off destinations because of the high cost associated with full carrier airlines in the past are now able to fly cheaply. There is even an airline that was launched in Malaysia some years ago, Air Asia, that has it's tagline as, "Now Everyone Can Fly." The expansion of air travel has been more phenomenal in Asia than in Europe or the US in these past few years.

This increase in travelers brings with it, its own set of problems. People are traveling to countries with endemic diseases that the travelers have no natural immunity against. For example, malaria is not endemic in the US and Europe but is an everyday event in Africa and certain Asian countries. Therefore travelers from the US would not have any immunity from this disease if they are infected with the malaria agent.

Travelers are one of the biggest transmitters of infectious diseases. Transmission of such diseases is even more rampant and fast because of air travel. It's like air travel has unleashed the infectious agents onto the world. Recall the speed with which SARS spread from Hong Kong to Canada - within 5 days of its recognition.

In order to avoid personal infection and therefore avoid becoming a carrier of disease, it's only judicious that travelers avail themselves of the following information for personal protection.


Find out the diseases prevalent in the country traveling to at the time of visit
Check if they need to be vaccinated against the diseases endemic in this country because some diseases only affect those of a particular age range
Check if they have been vaccinated before for these diseases
Check if they need to revaccinate, if they have already received the vaccine before. Some vaccines need boosters or revaccination after some years and others don't.
Equip oneself with a medical travel kit that contains relevant medical accessories and medication.
If they ascertain that they need to be vaccinated, then ideally they should vaccinate 14 days before embarking on the preferred mode of travel. This is to ensure that the measure of antibodies achieve the optimum levels before travel. Some vaccines take only 7 days to achieve maximum levels and others up to 14 days. Oftentimes the rate of antibody production depends on the efficiency of each person's physiological makeup. So 14 days is a general rule of thumb. However, if the ideal cannot be adhered to, vaccination even on the day of travel is advisable - the philosophy being, better late than never! Vaccination is akin to an insurance policy.

Here are some vaccines that are considered travel vaccines. They may not be considered travel vaccines for denizens of the country where the disease is endemic.

i) Influenza - for those traveling from one hemisphere to the other during the winter of the destination country
ii) Travelers diarrhea
iii) Cholera
iv) Typhoid
v) Hepatitis A
vi) Hepatitis B
vii) Japanese encephalitis
viii) Meningococcal A,C,W,Y
ix) Polio
x) Rabies
xi) Tetanus
xii) Yellow Fever
xiii) Diphtheria
xiv) Pertussis
xv) Lyme disease
xvi) Tick-borne encephalitis
xvii) Measles-Mumps-Rubella

Generally anyone can receive these vaccines if it's appropriate for their age.

People who have an allergy to specific components of the vaccine should not receive the vaccine, so be sure to inform the healthcare professional of such allergy status.

Pregnant women are usually discouraged from vaccines unless there is a life threatening need.

Having fever rules out vaccination during the episode.

James T Pereira is the Founder of Breakthrough Health Solutions, LLC that reveals the breakthrough health tools that help people achieve supercharged health.

Vaccines are unnatural methods of safeguarding your health and they cause side-effects that can maim you. There are natural methods to shield yourself fro infections.

If you want to boost your health using natural, safe and low-cost techniques, sign up for the free "Your Daily Health Booster Tips at http://www.BreakthroughHealthSolutions.com

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Great Travel Safety Tips For You

The world has not quite become a global village yet. Although it has become a lot easier than before to travel to most places around the globe, it's yet not as simple as roaming about in your own country. Add to that, the problems of terrorism and insurgency, in most countries you can think of and travel can become a really scary prospect. So, what do you do if you're planning a trip abroad?

Going abroad may be something you have wanted for a long time. Despite potentially volatile conditions in many parts of the world, you will see that people still travel to the supposedly 'dangerous zones'. This is because of the magnitude of their wanderlust. If you are one of them, then there is no need to hold yourself back. These travel safety tips can ensure that you have a safe trip abroad.

1. Do thorough research about the language and culture of the country which you intend to visit. Learning a few important phrases in the local language can help you a lot in times of emergency. Knowing the local customs and traditions can also help not to offend the residents and blend in as much as possible.

2. Choose your hotel carefully. Do not go for cheap motels and inns which might turn out to be seedy joints! Look for moderately priced hotels located in the heart of the city.

While in your hotel room, keep the door bolted at all times and do not open without verifying the identity of the person knocking at the door. Check and locate the fire escapes and alarm systems. Do not hesitate to complain to the reception, in case you see any irregularities.

3. Get your transport arranged beforehand. You can arrange pick-ups and drops with registered transport agencies, throughout the duration of your trip. This is the best way to prevent possible problems with local drivers who may not understand your language.

In case you are renting a car for your entire trip. Make sure that you get the right maps with directions marked for you. If the car has GPS, it's even better. Do not stop to give lifts to strangers and keep your car doors locked at all times. In case you get lost, drive on to the next populated area and ask for directions.

4. Make sure that you do not carry any expensive or valuable items when you travel. Only have the necessary credit cards and as much cash as you simply cannot do without.

Always keep passports and visas close to you and not with your other luggage. Remember that your passport can let you access help from the embassy in case something goes terribly wrong. It may be a good idea to submit photocopies of the vital documents to the embassies beforehand.

5. Be polite and try not to stand as the odd one out. But take care not to get overly friendly with strangers and share your travel plans with them. Do not accept food and drink from anyone for they might be laced with drugs.

If you stick to these travel trips, you might have a great time abroad and find inspiration for more trips in future!

Simon Johnnson is the director of content for Executive Gift Shoppe. They specialize in leather briefcases and wallets.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Johnnson

Travel Tips to Malaysia

Malaysia is a country that is not only diverse in culture, it also offer a diversity of holiday genre. Malaysia is a country consisting of 13 states and 3 federal territories. The country is separated into two regions, West Malaysia which is the main Malaysia Peninsular and East Malaysia which is connected to Brunei and Indonesia.

Malaysia has lots to offer as a holiday destination. There are places that will satisfy different travel delights. Though it is relatively easy to get around in Malaysia, it is always good to look out for some useful information about the place before you begin your travel. Here are some useful travel tips for Malaysia:

Malaysia Visas

To enter Malaysia, all travellers must possess a valid national Passport or internationally recognized Travel Document valid for travel to Malaysia. There is no Malaysia visa requirements for citizens of The Commonwealth countries (except Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria), and British protected persons or citizens of the Republic of Ireland and citizens of Switzerland, the Netherlands, San Marino and Liechtenstein. U.S.A. citizens visiting for social, business or academic purposes (except for local employment) do not require a Malaysian Visa to enter the country. Foreign nationals who require a Visa to enter Malaysia must apply and obtain a Visa in advance at Malaysian Representative Office before entering the country. Visa which has been granted is not absolute guarantee that the holder will be allowed to enter Malaysia. The final decision lies with the Immigration Officer at the entry point.

Trading hours in Malaysia

You can enjoy all day and all night shopping and dining in Malaysia. The common trading hours in Malaysia are from 10am to 10pm, from Monday to Sunday.

Car rental in Malaysia

If you decide to rent a car in Malaysia, a national driving license or an International Driving Permit is required. Drivers must also be at least 23 years old. Malaysian drive on the left hand side of the road and seat belts must be put on at all times. The maximum speed limit in cities and towns is 60km/h and 110km/h for expressways.

Electricity connection in Malaysia

Visitors to Malaysia must check if their electrical appliances can handle the voltage of 220-240 volts AC, 50Hz. The power plugs used in Malaysia are of the three-pin, square-shaped type. If your electrical device does not accept the voltage and the appliance plug shape is different, you will need a voltage converter and a plug adapter.

Weather in Malaysia

The climate in Malaysia is generally equatorial and hence it is constantly warm with high humidity and plentiful rainfall. The average temperature stays around 20C to 30C throughout the year. Though there are no distinct seasons, November to January tends to be slightly cooler and May through to August is some of the hotter months.

Customs requirements when entering Malaysia

Visitors to Malaysia are allowed to bring in the following goods under the regulated limit set by the Malaysian Government. The items are Tobacco:Tobacco not more than 225 gram (equivalent to 200 cigarettes), Alcohol: Wine, spirit, malt liquor not more than 1 litre, Wearing apparels not more than 3 pieces., One pair of new footwear, Portable electrical or battery operated appliances for personal care and hygiene not exceeding 1 unit each. Food preparations to a value of not exceeding RM75 and all other goods including gifts and souvenirs valued at not more than RM400 (except for goods from Langkawi, Pulau Tioman and Labuan, the total amount valued at not more than RM500) Further information about the custom regulation can be obtained at http://www.customs.gov.my

Malaysian currency

The local currency in Malaysia is called Ringgit Malaysia (RM) and the currency code is MYR. Notes come in denominations of RM 1, 2, 5, 10, 50 and 100. Coins come in denominations of 5sen, 10sen, 20sen and 50 sen. All international credit cards such as Diners, American Express, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in hotels, shops and other commercial establishments.

Cash dispensing machines in Malaysia

Cash dispensing machines or Automatic Teller Machines are widely available in Malaysia. A surcharge may be levied when you draw cash from the cash machine. The fee varies between institutions.

Foreign currency exchange in Malaysia

Foreign currency exchange is widely available at licensed money changer, hotels and banks. Some of these exchange outlets levy a transaction charge. Shop around for the best exchange rate as there many foreign exchange outlets available for you to compare.

Crime rate in Malaysia

Overall the crime rate in Malaysia is low and violent crime involving tourists is relatively uncommon. Petty theft like purse snatching and pick pocket is the most common criminal activity directed against foreigners. Such incidents can happen in crowded places and snatch thieves are known to operate using motorcycles. It is advisable to be alert of your surrounding and be careful with your bags especially when walking on street.

Tipping in Malaysia

Tipping in Malaysia is not compulsory as a 10% service charge in addition to the 5% government tax will be included in the total figure of your restaurant bill.

Emergency numbers in Malaysia

There are several emergency call numbers in Malaysia. For police and medical assistance, the number to dial is 999. The fire department can be reached at 994 and if you have a mobile phone, just dial 112 and you will be connected straight to an emergency hotline.

Languages in Malaysia

The national language in Malaysia is Bahasa Melayu. Other major languages spoken include Mandarin, Cantonese and Tamil. English is a common language used in business.

Smoking in Malaysia

Smoking is not allowed in public places such as air conditioned shops, public transport, airport, public lifts and banks. A fine not exceeding RM1000 may be levied if caught.

Visiting places of worship in Malaysia

When visiting religious places in Malaysia, visitors are expected to be respectable dressed and behave. Visitors to mosque must be dress modestly, covering your body as much as possible and you are also required to take off your shoe before entering the mosque.

Travel Malaysia - An Exotic Retreat in South East Asia

Malaysia is an exotic land pampered by a tropical climate, blessed with immense natural beauty and packed with loads of adventure. It is the tropical climate of the place that allows it to afford a rich and varied floral and faunal wealth, making it a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Golden beaches with swaying palms and perfect sunshine make Malaysia a perfect lazing out spot too. With a dozen of islands teeming with coral reefs, Malaysia is a perfect adventure place with loads of diving, snorkeling and surfing opportunities. One of the most preferred holidaying destinations around the world, the country offers everything one would wish for a dream holiday.

The sheer beauty and bounty of nature makes Malaysia a place as enchanting it is. The tropical climate and dense woods make it a natural home to a wide variety of birds. The forests here are home to around 450 species of birds. It is this avifaunal wealth that attracts thousands of avian-watchers to the land. Tropical rainforests the cover the hills in Langkawi also afford a good population of tigers, orangutans, bears, crocodiles, elephants, leopards, monkeys, panthers, rhinoceroses and elephants, an undying excitement for all wildlife lovers. Langkawi is one of the best places here to enjoy the tropical climate. Penang too is a known for its sheer natural beauty.

Though calm and quiet, Malaysia has immense options for fun and excitement. A host of coral reefs and beaches make the land a hub of thrilling activities. The numerous beaches give out ample of scope for beach games and leisurely strolls. While the crystal clear waters and the corals allow you to dive, snorkel and surf. A number of marine parks have come up in Malaysia that offer a wide range of water-bound activities and exciting games. Langkawi is again one of the best places in the country to grab some bit of fun.

Apart from the beauty bestowed by Mother Nature, Malaysia is alluring for the urbane excitement it has to offer. The country's capital, Kuala Lumpur throbs with a thumping night life. As the sun goes down the entire city glows as life pounds in the numerous pubs, karaoke, discos and lounges that dot the city. Also known to be a shopper's paradise, Malaysia offers a whole world of goods for shoppers to pick from. Think of a thing and the markets of Malaysia have it for you. From Oriental treasures to the best of world-famous brands, it's all there. Walk the streets of the bazaars where tiny shops offer you the most unusual curios or go to the high-tech malls that have the best of brands and labels from every corner of the world.

A trip here cannot be complete without visiting the Genting Highlands, the Las Vegas of Malaysia. The only casino city in the country, Genting Highlands is a place to live the happening spirit of Malaysia. Genting Highlands are also home to two famous theme parks and the Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum. Some of the finest golf courses and swankiest of malls in the country are present here too.

Home to almost all kinds of hotels and resorts, Malaysia can hardly be a problem when it comes to finding a suitable accommodation. From splurge to economy to budget, hotels in Malaysia serve almost every kind of visitor it receives. With the best of resorts and hotels under the most well-known banners from all around the globe, Malaysia has the best of opulent hotels and lavish resorts. One can also find the best Spa resorts and upscale star properties in here. Apart from these there are a good number of hotels for the economy minded travelers too. The country is truly exceptional and is a perfect holiday destination for everyone.

For more information on Malaysia Holidays or other International Holidays please visit our website.

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Asia Tours

Asia mesmerizes visitors with its ancient alleyways, bustling colors and magnificent relics from a culture that dates over 6,000 years. This ancient past has not been overtaken by modern buildings, but rather many cities offer both. See skyscrapers and modern architecture, and not far away, visit amazing shrines, monasteries and temples. Walk the Great Wall of China. Walk through a Zen garden. Shop in a modern mall, or visit local markets. Participate in time honored traditions such as a tea ceremony or dance the night away at a modern nightclub. Eat at a stylish five start restaurant, or join the locals for exotic food cooked with Thai, Malaysian or Indian spices. Need transportation? Depending on what Asian city you are visiting, you may see cars, bicycles, rickshaws, a high speed bullet train or even an elephant.

Popular cities to visit in China include Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai. Some of the popular tourist sites include the Forbidden City in Beijing, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall, and the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xian.

Popular cities in Japan include Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo. Visit highlights such as the Golden Pavilion Temple, Mt. Fuji and Todaiji Temple, which is home to the largest bronze Buddha in Japan.

Singapore and Thailand have also become popular destinations for those traveling to Asia.

Traveling on a land tour is the best way to cover various cities in Asia. Tour operators offer packages as short as eight days which would visit just two cities such ash Beijing combined with Shanghai or Hong Kong. These packages are more basic and include just hotel accommodations, transfers and some sightseeing, with a lot of free time. Tour operators also offer more comprehensive tours of two weeks or more that cover at least four major cities in Asia with more inclusions, but still plenty of time to explore on your own.

If you feel that touring is not right for you, then you may want to consider a Yangtze River cruise or a cruise of Asian countries onboard a mainstream cruise line such as Princess, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America or Royal Caribbean.

Sue Brage blogs about the latest news, travel advice, tips and deals for Atlas Cruises & Tours => We invite you to read more about Asia travel including travel tips, vacations, tours and river cruises @ http://www.escortedasiatours.com/

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