Vacation in Malaysia with Asian Vacations, Inc.

MALAYSIA ACTIVITIES:

Jungle Trekking

Malaysia's primeval and largely unexplored rainforests offer intrepid trekkers endless opportunities to observe exotic and rare tropical flora and fauna. striding through the forests, the lush vegetation parts before you, affording glimpses of tapirs grazing in the undergrowth. In the background, a massive Rafflesia rises from the forest floor, radiant in its glory at being the world's largest flower. Crossing swaying hanging bridges will be a feat of balance, and there is nothing an energizing dip in a crystal clear rock pool next to a cascading waterfall can't fix! Refreshed and re-inspired, push onward through the steaming, vibrant ecosystem that stretches out before you, welcoming, embracing, and teaching you about nature at its most natural. Trekking excursions are centered in the National Parks and Forest Reserves. The trails are plentiful and so are some of the legends that surround them! In Sarawak, the terrain is hilly and the trek more arduous. The choice is yours - make a day of it, a week, or a month-long experience of a lifetime. If you plan on some real �jungle trekking� it is a good idea to go armed with insect repellant for the mosquitoes and other tropical insects. Leeches can be a problem in the jungle, particularly if you are near water. These blood-sucking creatures have an anti-coagulant in their saliva that could cause problems. Simply sprinkle a little salt on the creatures or burn them off with a cigarette lighter. Better still, wear protective clothes in the form of long trousers, closed shoes and socks (pulled over the trouser bottoms) for protection. Long sleeves will help too. Top locations for Jungle Trekking include Kedah (Gunung Jerai), Sabah (Kinabalu Park), Sarawak (Niah National Park and Lambir National Park), Perak (Banding Resort), Selangor (Malaysia Agriculture Park at Bukit Cahaya Seri Alam), Johor (Gunung Ledang), Pahang (Taman Negara and Tasik Cini) and Malacca (Air Keroh Recreational Forest)

Mountain and Rock Climbing:

Are you a seasoned climber or merely a determined beginner? Regardless, Malaysia has a mountain for everyone. And with each ascent you make come the rewards of sights of breathtaking beauty and terrain that span the spectrum of the imagination. For some climbs, the very bottom of the mountain is the starting point, and the bottom could mean dense, sweaty jungle, tricky rapids with lightning fast currents, or waist-deep swamps teeming with hidden activity. Make it through these obstacles and the peak awaits. It could be a relaxed, leisurely climb. It could be a challenging, spectacular, even spine-tingling excursion up the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, Mount Kinabalu. For all climbs, adequate preparation is paramount, and depending on your level of expertise, rest assured that guides will be there to assist you. Rock climbing is a popular sport around the world and Malaysia is fast catching on to this pass-time. Most climbing companies check their gear very well, but it is always a good idea to check clip fastenings and ropes for signs of wear yourself. Main peaks of interest include Kedah (Gunung Jerai at 1,217 metres), Sarawak (Gunung Santubong at 810m, Gunung Serapi at 1,710m and Gunung Mulu at 2,376m), Sabah (Gunung Kinabalu at 4,101m and Gunung Trusmadi at 2,642m), Perak (Gunung Korbu at 2,183m), Johor (Gunung Ledang at 1,276 m) and Pahang (Gunung Tahan at 2,187m)

Spelunking Caving and Cave Exploring:

Caves are not hard to find. Great caves are a different matter. Caves can be found in all Malaysian states, and are home to local fruit bats, birds and beautifully sculpted stalagmites and stalactites. The Mulu Caves in Sarawak are truly a spectacular cave system. With its network of caves stretching 200 km through the hills, it is one of the world's most impressive. So vast is this system that it can be divided into show caves (such as Deer Cave and Lang Cave) and adventure caves (like Drunken Forest Cave and Lagan's Cave). The Niah Caves in Sarawak are famous for their prehistoric paintings and luminous rock formations, whilst the Gomantong Caves of Sabah house the world's largest bird nesting site (source of the famous bird's nests used in Chinese cuisine). If you want to mix religion with exploration, try Batu Caves and its Hindu temple, or the Sam Po Tong Temple, recessed in the limestone caverns of Gunung Rapat. All are safe and inviting places to quench your thirst for exploring. Malaysia's limestone outcrops and hills are riddled with caves. Some of these are easily accessible and can be visited without any special equipment others are strictly for the experienced caver. Never venture into any caves alone and always carry a reliable torch and spare batteries. Another good idea is to take a ball of fine string with you incase you venture into any tunnels. This way you can tie it onto something sturdy before entering a tunnel and reel it out as you explore further, ensuring you won't get lost on your return...something that is VERY easy to do. Also keep a look out for loose gravel and rocks. Highly recommended caves are Sarawak (Mulu Caves (Deer Cave, Moon Cave, Drunken Forest Cave, Lang Cave), Bau Caves (Fairy Cave, Wind Cave), Niah Caves (Niah Great Cave and Niah Painted Cave), Sabah (Gomantong Caves), Perak (Kandu Cave, Tempurung Cave and Gunung Rapat), Perlis (Kelam Cave), Taman Negara (Daun Menari Cave) and Selangor (Batu Caves)

Angling and Fishing:

The aching in the arms is overpowering and perspiration is dripping from your brow. You've been battling this fish for 3 hours, but it isn't going to be "the one that got away". This isn't a scene from a Hemingway novel. This is you fighting a Black Marlin off the coast of Sabah. For deep sea sports fishermen, Malaysian's waters are stocked with game fish that'll provide grand competition. In the coastal waters off Terengganu, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak you can drop a line and wait for the strike! It could be a Sharp-Toothed Bass, Siluer Jewfsh or the prized Black Marlin. For the freshwater angler, try the lakes and rivers and maybe snare a Giant Snakehead or Malaysian Mahsa. A different challenge, but equally as rewarding. Then there is "candat" fishing. Learn from the local East Coast fishermen the art of catching cuttlefish using lights and multiple lines with hooks. Truly a distinct mode of fishing! Recommended sites are Kelantan (Gua Musang and Sungai Lebir), Kedah (Pulau Cincin, Pulau Tuba and Pulau Langkawi), Terengganu (Pulau Redang, Tasik Kenyir and Pulau Kapas), Pahang (Tasik Cini and Pulau Tioman), Sabah (Pulau Layang-Layang and Tunku Abdul Rahman Park), Perak (Tasik Banding (Temenggor Dam)), Melaka (Pulau Besar), Johor (Pulau Besar, Pulau Rawa and Pulau Tinggi) and Sarawak(Pulau Satang and Japanese Wreck (off Kuching))

White Water Rafting:

Heart- pounding, gut-wrenching. totally exhilarating! How else would you describe a ride on nature's rollercoaster? For some, a run down a churning, thundering river is the ultimate adventure. For them, Malaysia has rivers that would put any amusement park ride to shame. Sabah and Sarawak have rivers characterized by long stretches of rapids, boiling with contempt at man's attempts to conquer them. Pahang has a few of its own, no less scintillating and certainly no less indignant. If you manage to tear your eyes away from the chaos around you, you might catch some of the magnificent foliage that line these majestic waterways, replete with bemused jungle folk gazing down at your thrill seeking excursion. Guides are always on hand to assist, and your mode of transport is up to you� inflatable dinghy, bamboo raft, or the traditional sampan (dugout canoe). As the river levels are governed by rainfall, be sure to check the local conditions before embarking. Monsoon season, as usual, is not the best time to go rafting. Recommended sites are Sabah (Sungai Padas, Sungai Papar, Sungai Tamparuli, and Sungai Kiulu), Sarawak (Sungai Skrang), Pahang (Sungai Tembeling and Jeram Besu (Sungai Lipis)), and Perak (Sungai Sungkai),

Bird Watching:

If it's an adventure that's a little more refined and certainly less strenuous that's wanted, try bird watching! Malaysian's vast expanses of rainforest are home to more than 700 species of exotic birdlife and some extremely rare ones. Due to its location on the cross-migratory paths of certain bird species, Malaysia has emerged as a bird watching haven. Foreign and local birds alike, the avian extravaganza is one to behold. Scan the treetops, listen for the tell-tale calls. Look hard. You'll see them all, from the timid and tiny highland species to the bright and resplendent lowland varieties. Bird sanctuaries have been designated throughout the country. These include Taman Negara, Fraser's Hill and the Kuala Selangor Nature Park. In Sabah. Kinabalu Park and Layang-Layang Island are the spots to seek out. You're certain to sight the likes of Silver- Eared Mesias, Mountain Bulbuls, and Collared Kingfishers. If you see a Mountain Peacock Pheasant or a Malayan Whistling Thrush you are one of a privileged few, as they are the rarest of birds to be found. Recommended sites are Kedah (Pulau Langkawi), Sabah (Pulau Layang-Layang, Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, Kinabalu Park, Samunsam and Kota Belud Bird Sanctuary), Perak (Kuala Guia and Maxwell Hill), Selangor (Kuala Selangor Nature Park), Pahang (Taman Negara and Frasers Hill)

Diving and Snorkeling:

The water off Malaysia has some of the best, and most convenient, spots for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Crystal-clear water, colorful sea creatures and a rich marine life are the main features of the country. Choose from 11 of the Marine Parks found in the state or simply don a mask and snorkel and discover the world beneath the waves yourself. Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts can take their pick of several excellent east-coast islands, including Tioman Island, Pulau Kapas, Pulau Redang and the Perhentian Islands. Drop out of the searing heat and into calm, warm water that envelopes your body and soul. As your eyes adjust to the clear blue light, a brightly colored tropical fish swims by in greeting, then turns to rejoin the feeding school hovering above the nearby reef. Some of the world's best diving is to be done in the waters of Malaysia. Shallow seas, warm currents and rich marine life beckon the diving enthusiast or the avid snorkeled, and because of the relatively high visibility of the waters, they're a photographers paradise. For sheer beauty, Tioman Island is a magical spot, as is Redang Island. Both locations boast coral reefs of breathtaking majesty, and divers can glide through underwater caves, rifts and passages of brilliant scenery. Of all the dive spots ,there is one that stands on its own �Sipadan Island, off Sabah. With its deep waters, lush coral reefs and array of deep ocean species (Hammerhead Sharks, Manta Rays and Barracudas to name a few), Sipadan was recognized as an underwater haven by none other than Jacques Cousteau, ocean explorer par excellence. Take note, however, that diving is not recommended during the monsoon months of November to January, as the South China Sea can be rather rough. Recommended sites are Kedah(Pulau Payar and Pulau Segantang), Sabah (Pulau Sipadan and Tunku Abdul Rahman Park), Johor (Pulau Rawa, Pulau Hujung and Pulau Besar, Pahang(Pulau Tioman) and Terengganu (Pulau Perhentian, and Pulau Redang)

Biking:

The flat coastal roads offer not only a great scenery, but are also excellent for cycling. Take in the sights at your own time, stopping by at the various fishing villages along the way. While further in the interior, the countryside offers a varied and interesting terrain for serious mountain bikers. The state's mountains, such as Gunung Gagau and Gunung Tebu, also present exciting challenges for mountain climbers as do the mountains of Sarawak and Sabah. For the landlubber, the favorite bicycle touring routes are up the east coast of the peninsula and a cross-peninsula route from Butterworth to Baling.

Sailing can be done off almost every beach where you'll find hotels and tourist areas along Malaysia's coast and off-shore islands. Many hotels and resorts rent out small sailing dinghy's and catamarans for some thrilling action on the water. If it's more serious stuff you are after, charter a yacht either within Malaysian waters or to other destinations such as Thailand or Singapore. Sailing, especially on an ocean going yacht, is a wonderful way to explore Malaysia's coast as well as being great fun for the whole family, littlies included.

Kinabalu Mountain Sightseeing:

Turtle watching: Turtle Islands National Park, 40km (25mi) north of Sandakan, Sabah, is a good place to see green turtles between July and October, when they come ashore to lay their eggs. The Terengganu coast, in north-eastern Peninsular Malaysia, Pulau Pangkor off Lumut, and Selingan Island, north of Sabah, are other favored turtle-watching locations. National Parks: These are plentiful throughout Malaysia and each has it�s own unique areas of interest and all are one of the main tourist attractions in this part of the world. The reserve system is not wholly Taman Tasik Perdana government controlled and many are privately owned. Many national parks preserve some of the most outstanding rainforest samples of fauna and flora to be found anywhere in the world. Many species still undiscovered and many on the verge of extinction due to vast deforestation and fires in the area. Who knows, you, the visitor, may be the first to record or even see some of the creatures and plant life you will experience in one of these reserves? Mulu National Park is one of Sarawak's greatest attractions. Mulu's major claim to frame is its spectacular limestone caves. The caves of Mulu include the world's Malay Customs largest cave passage (the Deer Cave), the world's largest natural rock chamber (the Sarawak Chamber) and the Clearwater Cave, the longest cave system in South-East Asia. There are numerous other caves to explore but this is probably the most spectacular. Mt Kinabalu is an incredibly high granite peak located in Sabah simply begs to be climbed and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the province. Surrounded by beautiful rainforests and having gentle jungle trails, it is easy to negotiate by both the young at heart and those of a slower pace. The Snake Temple in Penang is probably the only temple of its kind in the world. The multitude of pit vipers coiled around objects on the altar are believed to be rendered harmless by the smoke of the burning incense in the temple. Just for good measure, the snakes have also been de-venomed. Admission is free; bravery should be obtained in advance. Taman Tasik Perdana is Kuala Lumpur's most popular park and includes various recreational facilities and other attractions like the Orchid Garden, the Bird Park, the Hibiscus Park, the Butterfly Park; the Deer Park and Memorial Tun Razak. Orang Asli (Aborigines) Settlement of Taman Negara call themselves 'Batek'. Some still live a semi nomadic life within the Park and their settlements can be found usually along some of the forest trails or by the rivers. Experience their lifestyle, one that 'time' forgot and discover what it's like to live without material wealth. The Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre where, unlike in a zoo, the Orang Utan (wild man of Borneo) at Semenggoh Rehabilitation Centre in Sarawak are set free in a 740 hectare forest reserve. Here, the Orang Utans and other native animals are nurtured to readapt themselves to the jungle life and to once again live Orang Asli in the wild.

Water sports: Generally the waters off Malaysia are safe for all forms of water sport. One does however have to take care during the rougher seasons, as some of the currents that rush along the coast can be particularly strong. A good idea, if swimming alone is to tell someone before you step in the water. There have been instances of jellyfish stings but generally, that�s about all you have to worry about. If you are stung by a jelly fish and don�t have vinegar (yes, the stuff from the kitchen) to pour on the sting ASAP three other good remedies for anything like that, (i.e. sea-urchin spine stuck in one�s foot etc.) are the juice from a lime, the crushed leaves of the creeper you�ll find on many beaches with purple flowers or, horror of horrors, your own urine. Any of the above will help ease the pain from the sting and help dissolve those urchin spines.