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MoonKissed by the River in Hulu Langat, Selangor

Photo Credit: Moonkissed By The River Facebook

The soothing moonlight at night, the soothing sound of the river and the gentle breeze make for the perfect glamping experience. Get a moon kiss by the river, as the name suggests MoonKissed By the River!

This glamping location is perfect for nature lovers out there! Located in Hulu Langat, MoonKissed By the River is famous for its family-friendly glamping site suitable for large groups of Family Day, relaxing with close friends and doing nature activities. In addition, enjoy BBQ activities and camping by the Semungkis River with family and friends.

Photo Credit: Moonkissed By The River Facebook

Here, you will find well-decorated glamping tents for glamper comfort. Several fire pits are located on site so you can enjoy a warm and relaxing evening. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit and floats to dive into the river located inside the campsite!

Photo Credit: Moonkissed By The River Facebook
Accommodation type* Glamping tent
Convenience* Air conditioning, fans, and electric kettles are provided.
Campfire and private BBQ
* Ice in icebox, charcoal & large bottle of mineral water, breakfast.
* The bathroom and river area are clean 
* Transport from the car park to the glamp site (on request)
* Cafe and dining room 
Price rate* From RM250 โ€“ RM500, depending on the size of the glamping room

You can book your stay at MoonKissed By The River below. For every successful and completed booking, I’ll receive a commission.

Booking.com

Originally published on IQI Global


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5 Best Homestays in Malaysia (Part 2)

stool city vacation art

Continuing from the previous post – 5 Best Homestays in Malaysia (Part 1) – for those of you who like to travel, the main destination to look for is the best accommodation or homestay that is perfect and comfortable enough.

Let’s check the best homestay options in Malaysia that you can choose from below!


1. One Riimba Private Pool & Garden Residence in Johor Bharu

One Riimba Private Pool & Garden Residence is the best homestay for you and your family to spend an enjoyable vacation. This homestay is located in the Bukit Indah area where it is close to various facilities such as restaurants, shopping centers and also attractions around Johor Bahru.

This bungalow type homestay has 6 bedrooms with 6 bathrooms and can accommodate almost 30 people at a time. In addition, this homestay also has a very spacious and comfortable living room and dining room for you to live in.

Outside the homestay, you can do various interesting activities such as BBQ while swimming in the private swimming pool that is also provided in this homestay. Visit the Facebook to learn more about this homestay.


2. Che Adham Guest House

Che Adham Guest House is one of the best homestays with private pools in the state of Kelantan. Che Adham Guest House is a two-storey bungalow located in Bandar Baru Pasir Mas, Kelantan. It has 4 bed rooms and three bathrooms which can provide more comfort for those who stay here.

This homestay is also close to Rantau Panjang and Kota Bharu. Visit the Facebook to learn more about this homestay.


3. Cloud9 Holiday Cottages in Langkawi

This homestay with a cottage concept offers you a luxurious and interesting vacation.

It has an atmosphere and decor that is quite beautiful and soothing. Cloud9 Holiday Cottages located on Pantai Cenang is also close to Underwater world Langkawi and Pantai Kuala Muda.

It is quite easy for you to visit these two places to complete a perfect vacation. At Cloud9 Holiday Cottages there are also some interesting facilities such as a swimming pool, shared terrace and others.

In fact, breakfast is also provided here. This homestay has a choice of houses which are one room, 2 room and 3 room where all these units have en-suite bathroom equipment and simple necessities such as fridge and kettle.

You can also enjoy free WiFi access around Cloud9 Holiday Cottages.


4. Borneo Beach Villas Karambunai

If you are looking for a homestay that guarantees luxury and privacy for your family, Borneo Beach Villas Karambunai is a must and right choice.

This resort themed villa is close to the beach and is very beautiful and able to enchant you as a family. With quite beautiful scenery accompanied by the breeze of language, we are sure that your days will be full of excitement.

This villa is also complete with a private swimming pool and guarantees your comfort to bathe without any disturbance. It has an option for you to choose which is a villa with 2 or 3 rooms to live in.

In addition, you can also access wifi for free if you stay here with daily room cleaning service. Visit the website to learn more about this homestay.


5. Nanga Damai Homestay

The next best homestay option is Nanga Damai Homestay which is a quite popular and well-known homestay in Kuching, Sarawak.

You will definitely be excited to see the beauty found in the environment and also the interior of this interesting homestay. Nanga Damai Homestay, which is located in the Borneo Forest, is able to provide you with an interesting holiday with all the equipment and facilities provided.

This homestay provides accommodation from villa rooms to double rooms where you can choose according to your budget and suitability.

Most interestingly here, you are also provided with breakfast and no longer have to bother going out to find food.

The green plants and flowers that flourish and bloom in the surroundings of this homestay yard will surely make your soul calm and peaceful plus the beauty of its green nature.

This homestay also has a swimming pool where you can spend time bathing together with the children. Visit the website to learn more about this homestay.

Originally published on IQI Global


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Tadom Hill Resorts in Banting, Selangor

Photo Credit: Tadom Hill Resorts Facebook

It’s often quite difficult to find a bamboo-inspired accommodation like this one at Tadom Hill Resorts. Located exclusively in Banting’s own nature reserve, Tadom Hill Resorts is a 45-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur and a 15-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The relatively close distance is perfect for a glamping place for your family!

At Tadom, you can choose a variety of activities to spend your free time. Complete with a variety of land and water activities, you can choose to be an adventurer, be active and relax when you want, or spend all your time just relaxing. 

Photo Credit: Tadom Hill Resorts Facebook

Whether it’s getting your adrenaline pumping for a dive into Tadom’s Emerald Lake, sitting in a bamboo-made gazebo while enjoying the breathtaking view of nature, the list goes on. More importantly, Tadom Hill Resorts offers something for everyone.

Photo Credit: Tadom Hill Resorts Facebook
Accommodation type* Chalet
* Bamboo Hut
Convenience* Private bed and bathroom
* Pillows, blankets, linens and towels
* Air conditioning and ceiling fan
* Canopy mosquito nets are available at select accommodations
Activities provided* Water Activities โ€“ 5m Bamboo Diving Platform, Tarzan Swing, Bamboo Raft
* Extreme Activities โ€“ Flying fox, ATV, Archery and snorkelling
* Indoor Activities โ€“ Giant Jenga, Congkak, Table Tennis, Badminton, and Beach Volleyball
* Children’s Activities โ€“ Rustic bamboo playground with obstacle course 
Rates* From RM 140.00/night for 2 people.
* From RM 540.00/night for 6 to 7 people.

Browse the map below to book your stay at Tadom Hill Resorts. For every successful and completed booking, I’ll earn a commission.

Booking.com

Originally published on IQI Global


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5 Best Homestays in Malaysia (Part 1)

For those of you who like to travel, the main destination to look for is the best accommodation or homestay that is perfect and comfortable enough.

It doesn’t feel complete if you spend your vacation time without getting the best accommodation, not to mention if the homestay you choose to stay in will create the worst memories for you throughout your vacation trip.

With the existence of homestay dumping, it is quite difficult for you to make the best choice. But that doesn’t mean you won’t find the best in this list of homestay options available throughout Malaysia.

As we share below, it will definitely help you to find the best homestay that you can make your stay destination.

Let’s check the best homestay options in Malaysia that you can choose from below!


1. Kainsal Guesthouse Melaka

Don’t be fooled by appearances! Sometimes the outside view does not fully describe the state of a place.

Just like this Kainsal Guesthouse in Melaka, if you look at the physical appearance of the outside it looks like a warehouse or even an old fort but once you step foot into the grounds of this homestay, we believe and are very confident that you will definitely be fascinated by the interior decoration.

Located about 15 minutes to Bandari Hilir, this homestay provides a variety of facilities that are very customer friendly and worth staying. Among the services provided by Kainsal Guesthouse Melaka are air-conditioned houses, free wifi access, private swimming pools, fully equipped BBQ tools and panoramas that will make your day exciting.

This homestay is located in the middle between Alor Gajah, A’Famosa, Banda Hilir, Jonker Street and Ayer Keroh.

What is interesting, this homestay can accommodate up to 20 guests where it provides 6 bedrooms with complete equipment such as television, toilet and hair dryer.

The price starts from RM1,050 for one night. For those of you who want to visit here, you can visit the Kainsal Guesthouse Melaka Facebook.


2. Hins’s Villa @ Tanjung Bungah in Penang

source: Agoda

The next best homestay is Hins’s Villa @ Tanjung Bungah. Hins’s Villa @ Tanjung Bungah is able to receive the presence of 20 guests at a time.

For your information, this homestay is located in Tanjung Bungah which is 3.9km from Straits Quay Convention Centre. It is equipped with 5 bedrooms which are 3 Queen beds and 2 Single Twin beds and 3 toilets.

For those of you who like to swim and want privacy, don’t worry because this homestay really meets your needs.

Hins’s Villa @ Tanjung Bungah has a private swimming pool with a very beautiful and perfectly maintained yard.

Using a different theme, which is industrial, it can make this homestay stand out and look more attractive compared to other homestays.

It is also equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi access, a BBQ set and a bathroom set.ย The accommodation price starts at RM980 for one night.


3. Villa 969 in Port Dickson

source: Agoda

Villa 969 in Port Dickson has 4 bedrooms and 1 bedroom and can accommodate up to 15 guests at a time.

It is equipped with security features such as 24-hour CCTV security and is located in a gated neighborhood with an area of โ€‹โ€‹up to 12,000 square feet to make your stay more comfortable and safe as well as enjoyable.

This villa also provides 5 additional mattresses and 1 sofa bed where it can provide more comfort for your perfect sleep.

In addition, this villa is also very suitable for all ages and is equipped with 3 bathrooms and water heater, air conditioner, TV and Astro, wifi, BBQ equipment set, water dispenser, outdoor and indoor games as well as basic equipment for cooking.

This villa offers prices starting from RM825 for one night. Visit the website to know more about this homestay.


4. Villa Kaseh Ain in Terengganu

source: Villa Kaseh Ain

The next best homestay is Villa Kaseh Ain located in Terengganu. This villa offers a variety of interesting facilities that suit the taste and comfort of your family.

For your information, this homestay can accommodate up to 30 guests, which is suitable for those of you who have a large number of family members.

Villa Kaseh Ain has 7 bedrooms which are 4 rooms with King beds, 2 rooms with Queen beds, 1 room with 2 Single beds and 5 extra mattresses with 3 sofa beds and equipped with 6 toilets. So you no longer have to fight for sleep because it is enough to give you long-lasting comfort.

In addition, this villa also has a swimming pool located right in front of the beach in Rantau Abang, Dungun where it adds to the peaceful, peaceful and refreshing atmosphere.

In fact, if you choose to stay here from May to August, you might be able to see with your own eyes the turtles coming to lay their eggs around the beach. You can also visit Tenggol Island and Kapas Island which are close to this villa.

The price of accommodation for one night in this villa starts from RM1,900. Visit the Facebook to learn more about this homestay.


5. Arfa Home Homestay

source: Arfa Home

The next best homestay option is Arfa Home Homestay. This homestay has a very spacious swimming pool and is divided into two, for adults and children.

So you don’t have to share to bathe in the pool with them and feel more satisfied to soak and play in the water. Arfa Home Homestay also provides 4 bedrooms where each room has queen size beds as well as air conditioning and wall fans.

Most interestingly, this homestay also has a home theater where you can spend time together with all your family members. In addition to bathing in the swimming pool, you can also do other activities such as karaoke and fishing.

For those of you who have a large number of family members, don’t worry because this homestay can accommodate up to 20 to 25 guests at a time. Visit the Facebook to learn more about this homestay.


Originally published on IQI Global


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5 Best Glamping Locations in Selangor

As the holiday season approaches, many of you must be busy planning to take your family to enjoy outdoor activities away from the hustle and bustle of the city, right? One of them is to go camping.

But, it’s kind of difficult with the fuss and difficulty of setting up a tent. Having to cook and light the fire again, are quite tiring. Not to mention if you want to bring small children and elderly family members along.

If you still want a mock camping atmosphere with nature, then glamping is the best choice for you! You can stay close to and enjoy nature without having to sacrifice comfort and peace of mind.

  1. Tadom Hill Resorts
  2. River & Glamp.
  3. The Sticks
  4. MoonKissed By the River
  5. Dusun Bonda

Did you know that there are actually many places suitable for the whole family to go glamping in Malaysia? If you are looking for a glamping spot in Selangor, below is a list of interesting glamping locations for you here. So read on to find out more!


What is glamping?

Glamping is an abbreviation of the term resulting from the combination of “glamorous” and “camping”. Just as the name suggests, glamping is camping in style.

It is an upgrade from traditional camping and often involves staying in small self-contained accommodation such as homestays, chalets or modern canopy tents. Glamping provides the perfect balance between nature exploration and comfortable accommodation. Needs and facilities are all provided, meaning you don’t have to worry about toiletries, bathroom and bed.

In Malaysia, glamping accommodation facilities may differ. Some may come complete with Wi-Fi and daily cleaning service, while others may not. Of course, glamping may not be as authentic as regular camping, but glamping is definitely less stressful and more comfortable!

Relax your mind and body and these glamping locations!


1. Tadom Hill Resorts

Photo Credit: Tadom Hill Resorts Facebook

It’s often quite difficult to find a bamboo-inspired accommodation like this one at Tadom Hill Resorts. Located exclusively in Banting’s own nature reserve, Tadom Hill Resorts is a 45-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur and a 15-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The relatively close distance is perfect for a glamping place for your family!

At Tadom, you can choose a variety of activities to spend your free time. Complete with a variety of land and water activities, you can choose to be an adventurer, be active and relax when you want, or spend all your time just relaxing. 

Photo Credit: Tadom Hill Resorts Facebook

Whether it’s getting your adrenaline pumping for a dive into Tadom’s Emerald Lake, sitting in a bamboo-made gazebo while enjoying the breathtaking view of nature, the list goes on. More importantly, Tadom Hill Resorts offers something for everyone.

Photo Credit: Tadom Hill Resorts Facebook
Accommodation type* Chalet
* Bamboo Hut
Convenience* Private bed and bathroom
* Pillows, blankets, linens and towels
* Air conditioning and ceiling fan
* Canopy mosquito nets are available at select accommodations
Activities provided* Water Activities โ€“ 5m Bamboo Diving Platform, Tarzan Swing, Bamboo Raft
* Extreme Activities โ€“ Flying fox, ATV, Archery and snorkelling
* Indoor Activities โ€“ Giant Jenga, Congkak, Table Tennis, Badminton, and Beach Volleyball
* Children’s Activities โ€“ Rustic bamboo playground with obstacle course 
Rates* From RM 140.00/night for 2 people.
* From RM 540.00/night for 6 to 7 people.

2. River & Glamp.

Photo Credit: River & Glamp. Facebook

Located in Sungai Buloh, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at River & Glamp! This Muslim-owned nature glamping resort in Selangor is the perfect getaway from city life, and has many types of accommodation available. Ranging from chalets to riverside huts. Take this opportunity to explore this forest reserve without having to sacrifice your modern comforts by spending the night in the resort’s brand new glamping tent! 

Photo Credit: River & Glamp. Facebook

Suitable for five guests, each glamping tent has five mattresses, a portable fan and air conditioner, fresh linen, and access to a nearby bathroom. Not only that, cutlery, barbecue grill and instant drink pouches are also provided if you are hungry. Not only that, the resort also provides breakfast and dinner with only a charge of RM25 per person.

Photo Credit: River & Glamp. Facebook
Accommodation type* Chalet
* Hut
Convenience* Fresh mattresses and linens
* Portable fans and air conditioners
* Shared bathroom
* Barbecue grill
Rates* From RM495 per Glamping tent per night for 4-5 people.
* From RM695 per night for a VIP Glamping tent

3. The Sticks

The main goal at The Sticks is to reduce the burden, reduce the use of electronics and make you relax! This eco-friendly inn promises a forest home for you to fully relax and unwind. Their accommodation is called a tentok, a cross between a tent and a hut, intended to provide a retreat back to nature. Don’t worry, tents still make a comfortable, beautiful and peaceful place to live!

In addition, dinner and breakfast are included as part of the room rate. Additionally, you can add another RM25 per person to get a full meal including lunch and afternoon tea. However, you are advised not to bring outside food! So don’t worry about food, and you have more time to sunbathe in the beautiful surroundings, swim in the river and play in the swing or hammock!

Accommodation type* Tendok (a cross between a tent and a hut)
Convenience* There are tents complete with bathrooms, others rely on shared bathrooms.
* There is no air conditioning, but a fan is provided.
* Towels and basic toiletries are provided
* No WiFi available, so you can enjoy nature
* Common areas are available for lounging, along with the river and other facilities such as tubing for tubing
* Breakfast and dinner are provided
Rates* From RM342 per room per night for Serene Tendok
* From RM564 per room per night for a Family Room

Note: The Sticks provides delicious meals cooked entirely with halal ingredients. However, please note that alcoholic beverages are also available for sale in the dining room (known as the Hall). We recommend you eat at your own discretion.


4. MoonKissed By the River

Photo Credit: Moonkissed By The River Facebook

The soothing moonlight at night, the soothing sound of the river and the gentle breeze make for the perfect glamping experience. Get a moon kiss by the river, as the name suggests MoonKissed By the River!

This glamping location is perfect for nature lovers out there! Located in Hulu Langat, MoonKissed By the River is famous for its family-friendly glamping site suitable for large groups of Family Day, relaxing with close friends and doing nature activities. In addition, enjoy BBQ activities and camping by the Semungkis River with family and friends.

Photo Credit: Moonkissed By The River Facebook

Here, you will find well-decorated glamping tents for glamper comfort. Several fire pits are located on site so you can enjoy a warm and relaxing evening. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit and floats to dive into the river located inside the campsite!

Photo Credit: Moonkissed By The River Facebook
Accommodation type* Glamping tent
Convenience* Air conditioning, fans, and electric kettles are provided.
Campfire and private BBQ
* Ice in icebox, charcoal & large bottle of mineral water, breakfast.
* The bathroom and river area are clean 
* Transport from the car park to the glamp site (on request)
* Cafe and dining room 
Price rate* From RM250 โ€“ RM500, depending on the size of the glamping room

5. Dusun Bonda

Photo Credit: Dusun Bonda Website

Dusun Bonda embodies the true definition of glamping, also meaning “mother’s garden” created by the owner with the hope of providing a wonderful childhood experience to her daughter.

Kid-friendly is the best word to describe this glamping site with amenities like man-made pools, waterfalls and playgrounds. Several types of glamping accommodation are available to choose from. If you want a real glamping experience, you can choose a Bell Tent with a private bathroom next to the unit. Alternatively, you can spend the rest of your time at the nearby Sungai Ulu Tamu or prepare your meals in the fully equipped communal kitchen. FYI, there are two natural hot springs just three minutes drive from the glamping campsite.

So bring your kids here to enjoy a wonderful glamping experience and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones!

Accommodation Type* Bell glamping tent
Convenience* Air conditioner, fan, 
* Electric mosquito repellent is also supplied
* Fully equipped pantry with fridge, microwave and electric kettle.
* Breakfast is available.
* Basic ingredients such as oil, sugar, salt are available.
* Campfire and BBQ.
* A private bathroom and toiletries are also provided.
* Swimming pool, playground and surau are also available
Price rate* From the price of RM350 โ€“ RM650, depending on the size of the glamping room

So, if you’re looking for the best glamping spots in Selangor, be sure to use this list for inspiration! Again almost all recommended glamping locations are close to the river. This is so that you and your loved ones can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. You will stay close to and enjoy nature without having to sacrifice comfort and peace of mind.

The soothing sound of the river and the gentle breeze, make it the perfect glamping experience. Don’t wait any longer! Go ahead and plan the perfect vacation with friends and family based on these locations we’ve shared! 

Originally published on IQI Global


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Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection

Experience Kuala Lumpurโ€™s energy and rich culture at Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection. 

Also known as STRIPES, it is located in the heart of the Kuala Lumpur and Malaysiaโ€™s business district. Stay right in Kuala Lumpur’s business and social hub, near some of the cityโ€™s top restaurants, art galleries, shops and legendary landmarks. It is also near to the Stesen Monorel Medan Tuanku, Dang Wangi LRT Station on the Kelana Jaya line, and Bukit Nanas Monorail Station.

KL Tower is 2.3 km from Hotel Stripes. It is also 2.9 km to Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC, while Aquaria KLCC is 2.6 km from the hotel. Kuala Lumpur International Airport is 68.3 km away.

Booking.com

Accommodations

Stylish urban accommodations in Kuala Lumpur for individual, family, or group stays:

  • Stripes Suite : 1 Bedroom Suite, 1 King, Sofa bed
  • Executive Studio : Larger Studio, 1 King, Sofa bed
  • Studio : Studio, 1 King, Sofa bed
  • Executive Deluxe Room : Guest room, 1 King, Sofa bed
  • Deluxe Twin : Guest room, 2 Twin/Single Bed(s)
  • Deluxe King : Guest room, 1 King
Booking.com

Dining @ Brasserie 25

Enjoy food and drinks offered at Hotel Stripes.

Brasserie 25 exudes a rustic charm. With its red brick arcades, mid-century copper sputnik chandeliers and dark wood floors, this restaurant and bar located on level 1 provides a dramatic yet relaxed vibe.

Throwback to 2018, when we had afternoon tea with cakes, macaroons, and tarts at Brasserie 25.

Then, back again in 2020, when we had a Bao-Tea-Ful (meal) at Brasserie 25.

“All it takes to fall in love is a single bite of our bao, made fresh and stuffed with only the best ingredients.”

The baos had different fillings, from lamb rendang to roast duck to salted egg butter prawn to braised beef brisket to with ice cream.

You can choose the bao to go with cendol, bubur cha cha, or red bean soup.


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Seaside Staycation at Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort

Honeymoon? Anniversary? Family staycation not too far from Kuala Lumpur City Center? Located along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and Sepangโ€™s 22 kilometer shore is a secluded tropical hideaway – Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort.

Located 90 minutes from the cosmopolitan buzz of Kuala Lumpur city, and only 40 minutes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort is easily accessible and hassle-free.

Settle into the perfect beachside staycation with gorgeous sunset and celebrate in style with your special someone and enjoy VIP treatment with perks to set the mood.

Booking.com

Photos shared are throwback to my 2016 holiday in Avani (short for Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort).

Avani

Avani has a mainland beachfront setting with lush gardens and a palm structure built on stilts which extends over warm shallow waters. The overwater palm features 315 contemporary Polynesian-inspired guest rooms and villas, all with a sea view.

We were welcomed by the Avani-hut building. From the balcony of the main building, youโ€™ve an overview of the resort and the branch straight down.

The resortโ€™s over water palm features 315 rooms and one, two and three bedroom villas for couples, families and friends. Well designed space with essential comforts ease you into a totally relaxing stay. Fresh and contemporary, warm natural tones are splashed with colorful artwork, cushions, throws and flowers. Sleep well in a comfy bed. Drink in views of open water and stunning sunsets from your private balcony or terrace. 

Click image to book a room at Avani
Booking.com

Two-Bedroom Villa

Travelling as a family, we stayed in the two-bedroom villa. The villa was located on a palm. The villa can accommodate 5 adults or 3 adults with 2 children or 2 adults and 3 children.

The master bedroom had a king size bed, walk-in wardrobe, and LCD television. The master bathroom had marble flooring with sunken bathtub and a separate shower.

Click here to book a two-bedroom villa

The second bedroom had twin beds.

There was an extra โ€œroomโ€ which had a sofa bed and could be used as a work or study room.

The lounge area was spacious with an LCD television in the lounge. In addition to the television, the villa also had high-speed internet access, individually controlled air conditioning, ceiling fans, mini fridge, and a personal safe.

Click image to book a room

The villa had a large private terrace with panoramic sea view. 

click here to book a room and enjoy a sunset view

Sepoi-Sepoi

For dinner, we tasted authentic dishes and chilled at Sepoi-Sepoi.

Bila-Bila

Next dayโ€™s breakfast was a breakfast buffet at Bila-Bila. It is located at the Club House, directly ahead upon the Avani entrance.

Meaning โ€˜anytimeโ€™ in Malay, Bila-Bila is open from early to late with a range to suit every appetite. Dining room or open deck, local or international, buffet or ร  la carte. Anything goes at Bila-bila. If only all Sepang restaurants were this relaxed.

Bila-Bila overlooked the infinity pool and the sea.


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5 Benefits of Staying in a Homestay while Travelling

peaceful

Recently, travellers sought a homestay โ€“ a way to engage with local communities and discover the heart of a countryโ€™s culture. Take Malaysia as an example โ€“ due to social travel networks that have become increasingly popular such as TikTok and Instagram; local travellers have a rising interest in experiential and responsible tourism. 

In simple terms, they are becoming a trending topic for the views on their social media presence but still acting like decent human beings. 

The homestay experience would be the answer these travellers seek โ€“ a way to gain a genuine insight into their destination. 

Besides becoming a viral hit, what are the other benefits of staying in a homestay while travelling?

1. Experiencing the local life

When you stay in a family home, youโ€™ll have an experience you wonโ€™t have in any other accommodation. Youโ€™ll get to know regular, genuine locals personally and stay with them. Staying in a homestay is a way to experience the destination instead of only visiting.

Youโ€™ll learn all about the local cultures and customs you canโ€™t find in standard travel guides during your stay. By experiencing them first-hand, you will be given insight into local life that is unique, interesting and groundbreaking. For a few days, you will become part of their family, and trust me, this is the best way to broaden your horizon and truly experience the country you are visiting.

2. Exploring hidden gems

Homestays allow you to get to know a destination you probably wouldnโ€™t have explored otherwise. Not only could you find a neighbourhood, town, or village yet to feature on the tourist map, but youโ€™ll learn about local customs and traditions, from eating habits to family routines.

Hosts will give you the scoop on the hidden highlights and unusual attractions. They might tip you off on the best place to watch the sunrise, share their favourite cosy cafรฉ, or help you find the cityโ€™s most astonishing bar scene.

Many homestay hosts are happy to show you around their local area, which allows you to get off the beaten tracks, avoid large tourist groups and experience the destination like a local. Your host will know everything about their area, and with their insider tips and connections, you will have the most authentic local experience.

3. Enjoy the memorable local meals

Many hosts will rustle up a traditional meal or include breakfast in the roomโ€™s price. If you want to put your culinary skills to the test, offer to help out, and youโ€™ll likely head home with a new recipe or two up your sleeve. You could even cook a traditional dish from your own country to share with your host, making the experience one of genuine cultural exchange.

There is a high chance your hosts will be able to cook traditional local dishes like no other. When staying with a family, you witness the cooking of the most delicious local dishes. Your hosts will take you to the market, where youโ€™ll have a personal guide explaining all the foreign products.

Back in the homestay, you can help your host cook dinner and not only will you learn how to do this at home yourself, but you can also now easily connect with your host when doing this together. A homestay provides the possibility to experience the best local dishes cooked with tradition and love and then shared.

4. Embrace moments of a language lesson on your homestay

Hanging out with a resident means ample chance to practise your language skills. Many hosts inevitably speak English but will happily support you as you learn. This is an excellent chance for you to understand the local language better and pick up some new phrases.

If youโ€™re on the road and trying to pick up the language along the way, you need to speak it everywhere you go. What better way to do this than staying in a localโ€™s house when you travel? Or, if youโ€™re a student attending a language school in another country, stay in a homestay, and youโ€™ll get to speak the language every day with your host family.

5. Embark on providing a vital source of revenue in the countriesโ€™ economies

Staying in homestays is a great way to contribute to local families directly. About 1.2 billion travellers worldwide last year, but their spent money often leaks back to the Western economies.

You know where your money is going with a homestay as the family directly receives your payment. The family or community directly benefits by sleeping in peopleโ€™s homes. It is incredible to see what your money can do locally, while we had the best time staying there. Win-win!

Have you booked your next homestay journey?

Have you ever stayed in a homestay? Did you enjoy the local experience, or is this not for you? Eager to try it yourself now? Homestays are not only for the adventurous traveller. Homestays are a fun experience for everyone, whether travelling with friends, partners, or children!

You will have the best local experience you can get, and youโ€™ll also start to appreciate your wealth.

Originally published on IQI Global


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Hard Rock Hotel Penang Review

Booking.com

Along the beaches of Batu Ferringhi is the first Hard Rock Hotel in Penang, Malaysia which opened it’s doors on 19th September 2009.

Upon entering the car park, you’ll be greeted by a huge Hard Rock Penang guitar at the entrance. If you can’t play the guitar, at least you can strike a rock-star pose with the giant guitar monument.

Then just at the entrance of the hotel lobby, look down on the ground and then up. On the ground, you’ll see a reflection of the Hard Rock Hotel logo. Above is like a rain shower of lights projecting the logo and the lights change colours every few seconds.

Hard Rock Hotel Penang is a 6-storey hotel with 250 guest rooms and 11 types of rooms. The hotel has the largest free-form pool in Penang. The swimming pool consists of sand islands, three water slides and private poolside cabanas.

Here is a sneak peak of a room directly facing the swimming pool.

Here’s some sneak peek of a room while we were in Penang back then.

Overlooking the bed is a picture of John Lennon, illuminated by the purple light from beneath.

The room was fitted and decorated with an LED TV, a handy smartphone to make international calls, and a bedside lamp with it’s own fingerboard and real guitar strings.

In the bathroom is a picture of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll.

All pictures taken are throwback to my visit at Hard Rock Hotel Penang in 2014 and 2018.

You can book a room in Hard Rock Hotel Penang through the link below. Do note that for any booking made, I’ll receive a referral from the completed booking.

Booking.com

Credits to:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hard_Rock_Hotel_Penang

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Toya Kanko Hotel Review

Booking.com

Toya Kanko Hotel is in Toyako Onsen in Hokkaido, Japan. At the foot of Mount Usu is where you will find most of the area’s hotels and shops, a visitor center, the sightseeing boat pier and the bus terminal.

Toya Kanko Hotel offers elegant rooms. The hotel comprises 131 rooms. WiFi throughout the accommodation is available. Some rooms offer a heating system, a safe box and a wardrobe with views of the mountain. A tub, a hairdryer and free toiletries are featured.

At ใƒฌใ‚นใƒˆใƒฉใƒณใ€Œๆน–็•”ใ€ restaurant all guests are invited to enjoy Japanese cuisine. The outdoor bar is a nice spot for relaxation. Boyotei and Sobakura are situated about 200 meters from the venue. A private pool is featured onsite. Toya Kanko Hotel offers sport activities, such as tennis and table tennis.

You’re welcome to use the link below to search and book a room in Toya Kanko Hotel. Do note that I’ll earn a referral from any completed booking made.

Booking.com

How to get to Toya Kanko Hotel

From Tokyo, you can reach Lake Toya by flying to Chitose City’s New Chitose Airport, and then jumping on a local train from there. You can also ride the shinkansen all the way from Tokyo, a journey completely covered by the JR Rail Pass.

If you’re coming by car, it is:

  • about 2 hours from Sapporo
  • about 1 hour and a half from New Chitose Airport
  • about 2 hours and 15 minutes from Hakodate

Coming from Sapporo, we took the train from JR Sapporo station down to Toya station. It was a 1 hour and 52 minutes, or 163km train ride.

Toya Station

From Toya station to Lake Toya, it was another 15 minutes bus ride. The bus stopped at Toyako Onsen bus terminal, where we continued on foot (4 minutes or 300 meters) to the hotel.

Japanese Style Room
Japanese Style Room
Yukata (Japanese Pajamas)
Direct view of Lake Toya from hotel room

To search for an available room in Toya Kanko Hotel, you can use the link below.

Booking.com

Private Dinner at Toya Kanko Hotel

At our stay here, we had a private dinner of pork, cooked seafood, fresh raw seafood, desserts, and passion fruit at the hotel.

Booking.com

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