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Fun on the cheap side |
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ZALINA MOHD SOM
ZALINA MOHD SOM suggests 10 things to do and see
around the country that won´t burn a hole in your pocket
1. Sky Bridge, Petronas Twin Towers
A VISIT to Kuala Lumpur is not complete without a stopover at the Petronas Twin Towers. This iconic landmark is best enjoyed at its Sky Bridge on levels 41 and 42 which gives a magnificent view of the city. With its arch support forming a symbolic gateway to the city centre, the unique 58.4m double-deck sky bridge is probably the hottest-selling place in the city.
Visitors start to queue for the free tickets as early as 5.30am and in less than four hours, all 1,600 ticket holders would have gone up to the bridge. Tours are conducted every 15 minutes for 20 people. For details, call 03-2331 4444.
2. KLCC Park
THE KLCC Park - Suria KLCC is surrounded by a sprawling tropical landscape. Although it has nearly 2,000 indigenous trees and palms, its most interesting facet is its water features, especially the Lake Symphony and Water Park. Comprising two water fountains, Lake Symphony is programmed to provide 150 magical dramatic animations.
For kids, the Water Park is the place to go. Though not really a theme park, it has interesting play structures and a wading pool.
3. Galeri Petronas, Suria KLCC
APART from being a shopping and dining haven, Suria KLCC houses Galeri Petronas. Set up by Petronas, the art gallery promotes the development and preservation of art with regular art exhibitions by both local and foreign artists. For details, call 03-2051 7770.
4. KL Craft Complex
THIS complex houses a comprehensive collection of crafts from all over the country. There are galleries that showcase crafts based on their materials and methods.
At the Craft Museum, you can spend hours learning about craft history and heritage, while at the Art Colony, you get to meet artists who will share their passion in art with you. For guided tours, call 03-2161 1470/80.
5. Penang Heritage Walk
THIS sightseeing option can be done either on foot or by taking the colourfully decorated trishaws around the area. Learn more about the state´s heritage attractions including Kapitan Keling Mosque, Hainanese Mariners Lodge and the Khoo Kongsi clan house.
6. KL Lake Gardens
KUALA Lumpur´s best green lung, KL Lake Gardens, is a cool sanctuary in the heart of the city surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the National Mosque and Islamic Arts Museum. Nearby are the National Monument, Deer Park, Butterfly Park, Bird Park, Orchid Garden and Hibiscus Garden. Although there is a tram service, it´s only available on weekends at RM1 a ride. Some of the parks and gardens impose minimal entrance fees.
7. Bas Bandar
TERENGGANU´S tourist hop-on, hop-off bus, called Bas Bandar, is uniquely decorated based on the state´s Malay-style architecture. It starts from the Syahbandar in the heart of Kuala Terengganu and goes as far as Chendering to the Floating Mosque and the Noor Arfa Batik Complex. Its route covers almost all tourist spots in town. Visitors who wish to explore the city can hop on and off at any stop they fancy.
8. Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM)
There is more to FRIM than just its museum, arboretum, insectariums, ethno-botanical garden and traditional Malay houses. It´s probably one of the best places to experience the rainforest. There are a few nature trails which are well-marked and safe, as long as you don´t venture out alone. There is a minimal fee for those who want to try the canopy walkway above the forest floor. For details, call 03-6279 7000.
9. Royal Selangor Visitor Centre
THE Royal Selangor Visitor Centre is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Entrance is free and there are guided tours for visitors to learn more about pewter making. For those who wish to create their own pewter masterpiece, it costs RM50 to enrol in the School Of Hard Knocks workshop but prior booking is required.
10. Kuantan River Cruise
THE cruise starts at the Shahbandar Jetty, located just beside the Municipal Council Office near the Esplanade. As you cruise along the river, you can see modern skyscraper buildings alongside traditional fishing villages. Take note of the inhabitants of the mangrove swamps along the river. The two-hour day cruise is available everyday while night cruises are available on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Source : New Straits Times – 16 September 2010
