KUALA LUMPUR, 9 June — Tourism Malaysia and Dorsett Hotels Malaysia have launched a nationwide domestic tourism campaign featuring immersive Wira and Manja-themed family rooms, as the agency intensifies efforts to strengthen local travel amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties affecting international tourism.

The “Jom Cuti! Bersama Wira & Manja” campaign, launched in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), marks a strategic collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and Dorsett Hotels Malaysia aimed at encouraging Malaysians to rediscover destinations closer to home while supporting the country’s tourism industry.

Speaking at the launch, Tourism Malaysia Director-General Muhammad Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim described domestic tourism as the backbone of Malaysia’s tourism sector, particularly during periods of global instability.

He acknowledged that recent tourism indicators have become less encouraging amid developments in the Middle East and other international markets, making domestic travel an increasingly important buffer for the industry.

Domestic Tourism

“Domestic tourism has always helped sustain the sector during times of crisis. After the Covid-19 pandemic, local travellers played a significant role in supporting hotels and tourism businesses nationwide,” he said.

Amirul added that Tourism Malaysia is recalibrating some of its promotional strategies in response to ongoing uncertainties affecting the Middle East market, while placing greater emphasis on domestic travel and key regional markets such as China, India and Southeast Asia.

He also revealed that initiatives under Visit Malaysia 2026 will continue into 2027 to ensure sustained momentum for the national tourism campaign.

A key highlight of the collaboration is the introduction of specially designed Wira and Manja-themed rooms across Dorsett’s participating hotels nationwide.

Immersive Experience

Inspired by Malaysia’s tropical rainforests and wildlife, the rooms transform conventional hotel stays into an interactive family experience. During a media preview, guests were treated to a room featuring floor-to-ceiling rainforest murals, jungle-inspired furnishings, themed bedding, plush mascots, children’s play corners and educational elements centred on Malaysia’s biodiversity.

The concept draws heavily on the conservation message behind Wira and Manja, the official sun bear mascots of Visit Malaysia 2026.

By incorporating wildlife themes into the guest experience, Tourism Malaysia hopes to strengthen awareness of environmental conservation while making travel more engaging for younger visitors.

Dorsett Malaysia Vice Chairman Datin Jasmine Heng Abdullah said the hotel group was honoured to partner with Tourism Malaysia on an initiative that celebrates local exploration and family togetherness.

“Through ‘Jom Cuti! Bersama Wira & Manja’, we hope to inspire Malaysians to create lasting memories while discovering destinations across the country,” she said.

The campaign covers Dorsett’s network of 13 hotels nationwide, including properties in Kuala Lumpur, Subang Jaya, Putrajaya, Johor Bahru and Labuan.

Participating hotels will offer special promotional packages featuring discounts of up to 30 per cent off standard room rates, RM50 dining vouchers, family-friendly activities and a unique 26-hour stay concept that allows guests greater flexibility in their check-in and check-out times, subject to availability.

During the media briefing, Dorsett representatives said the flagship Sun Bear-themed family room package is currently priced from approximately RM480 nett for a two-day, one-night stay, complete with connecting family rooms, breakfast and themed experiences designed specifically for families with young children.

Effort by Tourism Malaysia to Sustain Tourism Growth

The partnership also forms part of Tourism Malaysia’s broader efforts to sustain strong tourism growth in the midst of Visit Malaysia 2026.

Malaysia welcomed 42.2 million visitors in 2025, representing an 11.2 per cent increase compared with 2024. The first quarter of 2026 recorded 10.6 million visitor arrivals, a 5.4 per cent increase over the corresponding period last year.

Tourism Malaysia believes campaigns such as “Jom Cuti! Bersama Wira & Manja” will help maintain momentum by encouraging Malaysians to explore the country’s attractions while supporting local hotels, restaurants, tour operators and tourism-related businesses.

With its combination of affordable family packages, immersive themed accommodation and conservation-focused storytelling, the campaign aims to position domestic travel not merely as an alternative to overseas holidays, but as a compelling experience in its own right. – NMH

The post Tourism Malaysia, Dorsett Join Forces Amid Global Tourism Uncertainty first appeared on NMH.

Kuala Lumpur, 22 May 2025 – An innovative photography and video competition, aimed at showcasing the beauty of Malaysia’s tourist destinations, was launched at MaTIC today, setting the stage for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). Malaysia Photo Hunt 2025 promises a celebration of creativity and tourism.

Officiated by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Khairul Firdaus bin Akbar Khan the event highlighted the importance of creative promotion in the tourism sector. “Malaysia Photo Hunt 2025 is not just a competition, it’s a celebration of our nation’s beauty and diversity,” he stated. “We invite everyone to capture and share the essence of Malaysia through their lenses.”

Running from 01 June to 31 August 2025, the competition is open to all Malaysian citizens, foreign residents, and international visitors. Participants are encouraged to explore and capture the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Malaysia using cameras and smartphones.

Photo Hunt Key Highlights:

•⁠ ⁠Inclusivity: The competition welcomes all brands of cameras and smartphones, ensuring broad participation.
•⁠ ⁠Submission Requirements: Participants must submit their photos or videos along with proof of travel activities within Malaysia, dated from January 1 to August 31, 2025.
•⁠ ⁠Categories and Prizes: The competition features two main categories—camera and smartphone—with first to third-place prizes and 20 consolation prizes in each. The grand prizes total RM 100,000, with individual prizes ranging from RM 15,000 to RM 35,000.
•⁠ ⁠Total Prize Pool: With a total prize pool exceeding RM 400,000, Malaysia Photo Hunt 2025 is set to be one of the largest photo and video competitions in the country.

Strategic Partnerships and Support

The event has garnered strong support from leading brands such as Canon, Sony, Samsung, OPPO, and Huawei. Perodua has also contributed by sponsoring ten cars for a Fam Trip for influencers, scheduled from June 13 to 15, 2025. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both public and private sectors to promote Malaysia’s tourism industry.

Industry Backing

The initiative has received widespread support from various state tourism boards, including the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), Penang Global Tourism, Sarawak Tourism Board, and Sabah Tourism Board. Industry associations such as MATTA, BUMITRA, MAH, MAHO, MyBHA, and MITA have also pledged their support, highlighting the collective effort to boost tourism.

How to Participate

Aspiring participants can visit the official Tourism Malaysia website at www.mphunt.tourism.gov.my to submit their entries from June 1 to August 31, 2025. The first 2,000 participants will receive exclusive mystery gifts, adding an extra incentive to join the competition. The winners will be announced in October 2025, followed by a special exhibition showcasing the selected photos and videos.

Bright Future for Malaysian Tourism

As the event concluded, the sense of optimism and excitement was palpable. The Malaysia Photo Hunt 2025 promises to be a vibrant celebration of Malaysia’s natural beauty and cultural diversity, encouraging both locals and tourists to explore and share their experiences. With substantial prizes and widespread support, this initiative is set to significantly boost Malaysia’s tourism industry as it prepares for VM2026. – NMH

The post Malaysia Photo Hunt 2025: Vibrant Launch to Boost Tourism first appeared on NMH.

SEPANG – Budget flights are now within reach for travelers between Sri Lanka and Kuala Lumpur, with the launch of a new low-cost airline!

Tourism Malaysia is celebrating a significant expansion in air travel between Sri Lanka and Malaysia with the introduction of FitsAir’s new direct flights connecting Colombo to Kuala Lumpur. Starting April 4, 2025, this new route will operate four times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday), enhancing convenience and offering more flexibility for travelers.

This new direct service strengthens the existing air connectivity between the two nations, providing an additional low-cost carrier option to Sri Lankan passengers seeking affordable, reliable travel to Malaysia.

Enhancing Connectivity and Boosting Tourism

This new service comes as Sri Lanka’s visits to Malaysia rise, with 61,766 Sri Lankan visitors in 2024, a 4.2% increase from the previous year. FitsAir joins 30 existing weekly flights between Colombo and Malaysia, expanding travel choices.

Aligned with Malaysia’s Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, the route is set to enhance Malaysia’s appeal and further strengthen tourism and aviation ties between the two nations.

Budget Flights A Strategic Move for Tourism and Aviation

This route expansion is also aligned with Malaysia’s long-term tourism goals, particularly the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. Dato’ Shaharuddin Abu Sohot, Secretary General of Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture, expressed his enthusiasm for the new service:

“We are thrilled to see FitsAir launching this new route to Kuala Lumpur. It is a great step in enhancing the appeal of Malaysia as a top destination for Sri Lankan visitors and contributes to our efforts to increase flight frequencies and tourism activity in the region.”

What This Means for Air Travelers

For aviation enthusiasts and travelers, this move not only increases options for those flying between Colombo and Kuala Lumpur but also signals a growing trend of low-cost carriers expanding their footprint in South East Asia. FitsAir’s entry into this market complements the existing offerings by major full-service carriers and low-cost airlines. – NMH

Also Read:

Sorry Bali, we’re going to Langkawi instead

The post Budget Flights, Big Adventures: Sri Lanka’s Latest Airline Now Connecting to KL first appeared on NMH.

KUALA LUMPUR – The vibrant atmosphere of the Matta Fair at MITEC was electrified by the presence of Salam Taiwan Ambassador, Nabila Razali, alongside popular influencers Intan Serah and Safwan Nazri. This three-day event attracted a significant number of visitors to the Taiwan Tourism pavilion and Salam Taiwan booths, showcasing the rich cultural offerings and tourism potential of Taiwan.

Nabila Razali, a well-known singer and actor, was recently appointed as the Ambassador for Salam Taiwan, which promotes Islamic tourism in conjunction with Visit Taiwan Year 2025. During her appearances at the fair, she shared captivating stories from her three visits to Taiwan. One notable experience included her participation in shooting the “Jom Taiwan” video, which highlights various attractions and experiences available in Taiwan. Her enthusiasm for Taiwanese culture and hospitality resonated with attendees, inspiring many to consider visiting this beautiful island nation.

When asked to describe in one word her first impression of Taiwan, Nabila uttered ‘Breathtaking’.  She then went on to highlight a few scenic places that she visited which are a testament to that word.  Among them are Bitoujiao Trail for hikers, Jingtong Station for a bit of history and healing places like the Sicao Green Tunnel.

Salam Taiwan and Ties with Malaysia

The event also featured remarks from key figures such as Choi Shih Pi, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration KL Office, who emphasised the importance of fostering tourism ties between Malaysia and Taiwan. Additionally, James Bu, Deputy Representative of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Malaysia, highlighted collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing travel experiences for Malaysian tourists.

Influencer Intan Serah made a significant impact during the event as well. As Malaysia’s first female footballer to gain international recognition, she brought a unique perspective to the fair. Intan engaged with fans by sharing her personal journey in sports and acting while emphasising the importance of travel in broadening one’s horizons. Her dynamic personality and relatable storytelling captivated audiences, encouraging them to explore not only Taiwan, but also their own potential through travel.

Safwan Nazri further enriched the event with his charm and charisma. Known for his engaging content on social media platforms, Safwan interacted with fans and attendees alike. He shared insights into his travels and experiences in Taiwan—highlighting its diverse landscapes, culinary delights (including local favourites that make you go “Vroom Vroom” with excitement), and cultural richness. His presence added an element of excitement to the Salam Taiwan booth as he participated in live giveaways that included enticing prizes such as free trips to Taiwan.

The collaboration between these influential figures and the Taiwanese tourism sector aims to promote not just travel, but also cultural exchange between Malaysia and Taiwan. The Matta Fair served as an ideal platform for this initiative, allowing visitors to learn more about what makes Taiwan a must-visit destination for Malaysian travellers.

Taiwanese Culture on Display

In addition to performances and prize giveaways, both pavilions featured interactive displays showcasing Taiwanese culture—ranging from traditional crafts to modern innovations—further enhancing visitor engagement. Attendees were encouraged to immerse themselves in Taiwanese culture through various activities designed for all ages.

As part of its commitment to promoting tourism that aligns with Islamic values, Salam Taiwan aims to create an inclusive environment where all travellers can feel welcome while exploring new destinations like “permatah hati.” The presence of Nabila Razali along with Intan Serah and Safwan Nazri at Matta Fair is a testament to this mission.

With such high-profile endorsements from beloved public figures, it is clear that interest in Taiwanese tourism is set to grow significantly leading up to Visit Taiwan Year 2025, just a few months away. – NMH

The post Salam Taiwan An Eye Opener For Muslim Travellers first appeared on NMH.

TAIPEI – The latest country to draw in Muslims to their country is, surprisingly, Taiwan. Understanding the stringent needs of the fastest growing religion in the world, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau has launched its 2024 Salam Taiwan Muslim-friendly travel promotional video, “Jom Taiwan!”

This is no surprise move as Taiwan is tapping on the global halal industry figures which is estimated to be worth around USD6.53 trillion. Growing at an estimated annual rate of 20%, the industry is valued at an average of USD560 billion a year. This makes it one of the fastest growing consumer segments in the world while the current Muslim population is 2.18 billion, which is 28.26% of the total population, increasing at 1.84% a year.

Over the last two decades, Islamic life style market has been growing as sharia’h complaint products
and services (e.g. halal food, Islamic tourism and Islamic finance) have become an important
component of the global economy. With an increasing awareness and expanding numbers of Muslim
tourists, many tourism industry players have started to offer special products and services, developed
and designed in accordance with the Islamic principles, to cater the needs and demands of these
tourists.

“Jom Taiwan!” Video Launching

The “Jom Taiwan!” video was launched here by Mr. Huang Yi-Cheng, Head of the International Division of the Tourism Bureau, and Mr. Chou Shi-Pi, Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Kuala Lumpur, with Taiwan’s Muslim Travel Ambassador, celebrity Nabila Razali. Over 40 Malaysian media representatives were invited to experience Taiwan’s Muslim-friendly travel environment and its natural beauty.

From January to April 2024, Malaysian visitors to Taiwan exceeded 170,000, recovering to 97% of pre-pandemic levels, making Malaysia one of Taiwan’s key Southeast Asian markets. Since 2019, Taiwan has ranked among the top three non-OIC destinations in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), reflecting its recognition of the Muslim-friendly environment. This year, Taiwan is focusing its promotional efforts on the Malaysian Muslim travel market.

The Taiwan Tourism Bureau has used the “Salam Taiwan” brand since 2018 to position Taiwan as a welcoming destination for Malaysian Muslims. This year, they have invited Malaysian star Nabila Razali, with over 3.5 million social media followers, as the promotional ambassador. The new video, directed by Ooi Shi Wei from the Golden Horse Academy and Muslim community influencer Neollene, highlights Taiwan’s urban trends, eco-friendly travel, adventurous romance, and cultural experiences.

Nabila shared her experiences from her previous trips to Taiwan, visiting attractions like Bitou Cape, Yangmingshan, Jingtong Station on the Pingxi Line, and various theme parks. She tasted Taiwanese Muslim cuisine, including fried chicken cutlets, and enjoyed DIY Hakka Lei Cha (pounded tea). The journey also included cycling along the Tanyashen Greenway in Taichung and taking the Pingxi Line train where she experienced Taiwan’s diverse transportation and warm hospitality. Nabila expressed her honor in being the ambassador and was impressed by Taiwan’s natural beauty and friendly atmosphere.

“72 hours in Taiwan”

In addition to the video, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau launched a new Muslim travel brochure and the “72 hours in Taiwan” voting campaign, where Malaysians can vote for their favorite Taiwan itinerary on the event website. Participants stand a chance to win a four-day, three-night Taiwan tour package for two, including round-trip airfare. The Bureau aims to attract more Malaysian Muslim travellers to Taiwan.

The promotional video will be broadcast through Malaysian TV, outdoor billboards, and online platforms. In September, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau will participate in the MATTA Travel Fair in Kuala Lumpur, where Nabila will hold a fan meet-and-greet. The Bureau, in collaboration with top Muslim travel agencies in Malaysia, will also launch limited-time group discount packages, aiming to double business opportunities in the Malaysian Muslim travel market. – NMH

About Islamic Tourism

Travelling and journey are highly recommended by the Qur’an. Allah asked us to travel through
the earth to take the lessons from His creation that He offers to us in His mercy (Al-Quran 29:20). It is a well-established fact that religion has influence on the day-to-day activities of Muslims, whether at home or travelling, and thus it shapes the choice of a destination for discretionary purposes and what is done at the destination (Jafari and Scott, 2014).

Nevertheless, the concept ‘Halal’ is not limited to Muslim consumers only, although the prime target is the Muslim consumers. The word halal is rooted from an Arabic word which means ‘permissible’ or ‘lawful’ according to the Islamic rules and regulations.

Additionally, the word associates ‘Toyyibaan’, which means ‘good’ for human being. Thus, all halal components of the halal industry including Halal travel sector provide products and services which are good and quality for the consumers. It is well accepted by non-Muslim consumers as a lifestyle choice because of the values promoted by halal industry such as animal welfare, social responsibility, environment-friendly, stewardship to earth, economic and social justice, and ethical investment. – NMH

The post “Jom Taiwan!” – Latest Draw For Muslim Travellers Launched first appeared on NMH.

Pelancaran video “Jom Taiwan!” adalah bagi menarik lebih ramai pelancong Muslim ke Taiwan. Ini kerana lebih daripada 2 billion penduduk dunia beragama islam termasuk sebagai penduduk minoriti. Mereka ini merupakan pelancong sasaran bagi kempen ini.

Di Taiwan penduduk Islamnya ada lah sekitar 60,000, dan 90% dari mereka beretnik Hui. Populasi muslim yang berkembang sihat ini merupakan antara faktor yang dijangka mampu menarik lebih ramai pelancong Muslim, terutamanya dari Malaysia.

Baru-baru ini, Biro Pelancongan Taiwan telah melancarkan sebuah video promosi perlancongan mesra Muslim, Salam Taiwan 2024, “Jom Taiwan!” Acara itu telah diketuai oleh Encik Huang Yi-Cheng, Ketua Bahagian Antarabangsa Biro Pelancongan, bersama Encik Chou Shi-Pi, Pengarah Pejabat Ekonomi dan Kebudayaan Taipei di Kuala Lumpur, dan Duta Pelancongan Muslim Taiwan, Cik Nabila Razali. Lebih 40 orang wakil media dari Malaysia telah dijemput ke Taiwan untuk merasai sendiri pengalaman pelancongan mesra- muslim Taiwan dan keindahan semulajadinya.

Taiwan Sebagai Destinasi Mesra-Muslim

Dengan berlatarbelakangkan budaya yang unik, panorama indah dan makanan yang lazat, Taiwan dijangka mampu menjadi destinasi pilihan utama lebih ramai masyarakat muslim Malaysia. Ini kerana dari Januari sehingga April 2024, pelancong Malaysia ke Taiwan melebihi 170,000, meningkat sebanyak 97% berbanding waktu pra-pandemik, menjadikan Malaysia salah satu pasaran pelancongan dari Asia Tenggara yang paling penting di Taiwan. Sejak 2019, Taiwan telah disenaraikan sebagai antara tiga destinasi utama bukan OIC dalam Indeks Perjalanan Muslim Global (GMTI), Taiwan diiktiraf berjaya menonjolkan persekitaran pelancongan mesra Muslim . Pada tahun ini, Biro Pelancongan Taiwan telah melancarkan promosi komprehensif yang menyasarkan pasaran pelancongan untuk Muslim Malaysia.

Biro Pelancongan Taiwan telah menggunakan jenama “Salam Taiwan” sejak 2018 untuk menonjolkan Taiwan sebagai destinasi yang mengalu-alukan kedatangan pelancong Muslim Malaysia. Tahun ini, mereka menjemput bintang selebriti Malaysia Nabila Razali, dengan 3.5 juta pengikut di media sosial sebagai Duta Promosi. Video terbaharu mereka adalah diarahkan oleh pengarah Malaysia Ooi Shi Wei dari Golden Horse Academy dan pengarah pempengaruh dari komuniti Muslim, Neollene. Video itu mempamerkan daya tarikan pelancongan Taiwan melalui empat tema utama: trend bandar, eko-pelancongan, pengembaraan yang mengujakan dan pengalaman budaya.

Nabila Razali juga berkongsi pengalamannya ke Taiwan sebelum ini, di mana beliau melawat beberapa tempat tarikan pelancong seperti Bitou Cape, Yangmingshan, Stesen Jingtong di Laluan Pingxi, dan pelbagai taman tema. Beliau sempat merasai masakan Muslim Taiwan, termasuk potongan ayam goreng yang lazat, dan menikmati Hakka Lei Cha DIY (teh yang ditumbuk). Perjalanan beliau juga termasuk berbasikal di sepanjang Tanyashen Greenway di Taichung dan menaiki kereta api Laluan Pingxi semasa perjalanan lawatan yang begitu mempesonakan. Nabila menyatakan rasa bertuah dijadikan duta dan sangat kagum dengan keindahan semula jadi dan suasana mesra Taiwan.

Kempen Pengundian “72 Jam di Taiwan”

Selain daripada video, Biro Pelancongan Taiwan turut melancarkan risalah perjalanan Muslim baharu dan kempen pengundian “72 jam di Taiwan”, menjemput rakyat Malaysia mengundi jadual perjalanan ke Taiwan yang mereka gemari di laman web acara ( URL akan diberikan). Peserta bakal berpeluang memenangi pakej pelancongan Taiwan selama empat hari tiga malam untuk dua orang, termasuk tambang penerbangan pergi balik. Biro Pelancongan Taiwan menyasarkan untuk menarik lebih ramai pengunjung Muslim dari Malaysia.

Video promosi itu akan disiarkan melalui iklan TV Malaysia, papan iklan elektronik luar, dan platform dalam talian. Pada bulan September, Biro Pelancongan Taiwan akan mengambil bahagian dalam Pameran Pelancongan MATTA di Kuala Lumpur, di mana Nabila akan mengadakan sesi ‘meet-and-greet’ bersama peminat. Biro, dengan agensi-agensi pelancongan muslim ternama di Malaysia akan bekerjasama bagi mengadakan pakej diskaun pelancongan berkumpulan terhad-masa, bertujuan menggandakan peluang perniagaan bagi pasaran Muslim Malaysia. – NMH

The post Video “Jom Taiwan!” Dilancarkan Untuk Menarik Pelancong Muslim Malaysia first appeared on NMH.

Look Bali, you’re wonderful, so it’s not you, it’s me. Same with you, Phuket – as lovely as you are. And Koh Samet, it’s just hasn’t been the same between us for a while.

Seems I’ve developed something known as ‘Asian island holiday contempt’ – I am sure it’s a thing – where all the crowds flocking in the direction of a few key holiday spots result in making you look elsewhere.

And my attention is now firmly on Langkawi, the stunning main island in archipelago of 99 islands located about 30 km off Malaysia’s north-western coastline in the Straits of Malacca.

Langkawi is an island destination that just keeps delivering – so much so, after a few days of strolling the golden sands of its beaches, trekking the rainforests, swimming in crystal clear mountain waterfalls, and enjoying boating adventures, I wondered why I had not been here before. Here are eight reasons why I’m heading back soon.

Getting there

From Australia, Langkawi is a two-stop journey. AirAsia flies the nine-hour leg into Kuala Lumpur from Sydney and Melbourne, and then it’s an hour connecting flight to the island, with January fares available from $319 one way. AirAsia is commencing flights from Perth to KL in March. There are also direct flights from Singapore into Langkawi, taking just over 90 minutes. 

Spending up

The conversion of the Malaysia ringgit to the Australian dollar is already in our favour –RM100 (ringgit) equals about $33AUD – but on Langkawi, the travel budget stretches further as this is a duty-free island. One barman joked Langkawi is where beer is almost cheaper than water. Save space in your suitcase, with the biggest range of duty-free shopping in the main town of Kuah.

Pantai Cenang 

The main tourist strip of Pantai Cenang has beachfront restaurants, bars, and shops and while it gets busy, it’s never swarmed by hordes of visitors like some other holiday spots. The 2km coconut tree-lined beach is the main attraction, with water so clear, you can see your feet while wading out to swim. For something more active than lounging on a sunbed, head out on a boat ride or take a jet ski adventure.

Best beaches

Jump into a Grab taxi – Asia’s version of Uber – and spend a few dollars and about 30 minutes to explore some of the other beach gems of the coastline. To the west is Pantai Kok which is surrounded by national park, or head north to the gorgeous Pantai Pasir Tengkorak (Sandy Skulls Beach), while further along the northern coastline is Pantai Pasir Hitam (Black Sand Beach) with its dramatic colourings.

Heading sky high

It’s 20 minutes by the Langkawi Cable Car to the top of the Gunung Machinchang mountain, and worth every second for the amazing views across the island, the forest and the sea. It’s a 700 metre climb by the gondola and at the top is the 125-metre Skybridge which crosses a deep valley and offers even better views. An inclinator links the cable car to the bridge, but more exciting is the 10 minute walk along the top of the valley ridge. Entry fees start from $12. 

Wading in waterfalls

A 15-minute walk from the base of the cable car is the Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh) in the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park. The waterfalls are split into two sections – a climb of 630 steps to the upper pools, and the lower pool where the waterfall is. The upper rockpools are perfect to cool off in after the steep walk while the lower pool is easier to reach and offers the spectacle of the cascading water falling from the cliff above. 

The enchanted forest

Let the sea of lights lead the way through the Dream Forest, a multi-sensory night-time rainforest adventure, where three mythical tales taken from the history of Langkawi are recounted in visual storytelling involving animation, bold imagery, and a galaxy of lighting effects. This is so imaginative and can’t be dismissed as only for the kids. Rates start from $15, but this place demands a second visit. 

On the high seas

With islands dotting the waters around Langkawi, a sunset cruise offers the best view of the shape and scale of the rocky outcrops. Watching the sunset from the open sea, as the glowing red ball disappears beneath the horizon while tasting fresh prawns, was a good way to wind up a day. Rates for the Avanate Yacht Charter cruise start from $40 per person.

Where to stay

One of the newest hotels on the island is the four-star Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang, which is also one of the best located, only a few minutes stroll from the main beach. The 164 room hotel, situated around an attractive central pool, also has features the fine Rice Garden Restaurant. The Prawn Mee Rebus is highly recommended. Rates in February commence from $129 / night. 

The writer was a guest of AirAsia and the Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang

The article was originally published in The Escape on January 15, 2024

The post Sorry Bali, we’re going to Langkawi instead first appeared on NMH.

Home

Our usual destination for the past few years has been Cherry Hill Orchards, one of the largest cherry orchards in Victoria, first established in 1940, and located in Wandin East. It’s about an hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD for tourists visiting Melbourne (it’s only less than half an hour from where I live). Cherry Hill Orchards has a secondary location at Coldstream, Victoria.

The historical home of Victorian cherries, the iconic Yarra Valley is where it all began for CherryHill. Rich, fertile soils, long sunshine hours and an ample supply of fresh water from the Yarra River ensure the Yarra Valley is synonymous with all things agriculture.

This cool climate region is made up of rolling hills and temperate forest valleys, with the Dandenong Ranges to the South and the Plenty Ranges to the West. The mild temperatures and dry summers, plus the fertile, red volcanic soils of our Wandin orchard, provide the perfect conditions for our mid late season cherries, producing large, juicy, deep red fruit with a superior sweetness.

The home of CherryHill’s ‘Pick Your Own Cherries’, every summer thousands of cherry lovers flock here to pick their own cherries straight from the tree, enjoying the spectacular views and quality time spent with friends and family at this fantastic location.

Only 30 minutes from Melbourne’s leafy outer suburbs the Yarra Valley’s reputation as a premier food and wine destination is owing to its enduring natural beauty and prosperity.

So how does it work? Once you reach Wandin East orchard, park your car and head to the reception area where you can pay and collect your bucket. You then hop on to vans that take you to the part of the orchard where the picking happens. A short safety and introduction to cherry picking later, you’re off picking cherries. You are allowed to eat as many cherries as you want while you pick. You pay for only what you take back. 

Summers in Australia can get very hot. You need to ensure that you’re wearing loose clothes, a sun hat and if you’re particularly sensitive to sun, SPF50 protection. Please bring your water bottles. 

Once you’ve finished filling your bellies and picked up your bags of cherries, you hop back on the vans and head back to the main reception where there is a cafe selling cherry ice cream, cordials and memorabilia. 

Booking is essential. You can book your visit here :

Tour Group Select a Cherry Picking Location

For tourists, you can pack your cherries in boxes and fly them back to your countries. They last about two to three weeks with the stems.

Getting there: Malaysia Airlines flies twice daily to Melbourne from Kuala Lumpur. You can get to Wandin East by hiring a car.

As for me and my kids, cherry picking is our annual ritual that creates full bellies, happy smiles, and ever-lasting memories. Being lucky enough to live near Yarra Valley gives my family the enormous ability to experience the best of what Australia has to offer in terms of products. 

The post Travel Victoria : Cherry Picking at Cherry Hill Orchards first appeared on NMH.