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Malaysia's
Top Travel Portal
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Johor
is on the southernmost tip of Peninsular Malaysia.
The name Johor was purportedly taken from Arabic
word, 'Jauhar', which literally means 'Precious
Stones'. This is probably related to the early Arab
traders who traded spices in Johor. The name has
certainly brought prosperity as today the state is
among the most developed in Malaysia.
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Its close proximity to Singapore, especially its
capital Johor Bahru (JB), has turned the state into
a favourite weekend getaway for the people of the
republic. They not only shop but also take the
opportunity to visit other attractions such as the
beaches, waterfalls or to simply enjoy the food! |
Johor is also the only state in Malaysia that has a
coastline both along the Straits of Melaka and the
South China Sea. |
Before you proceed to other parts of Johor, take
time off to visit interesting places in the state
capital. The Royal Sultan Abu Bakar Museum and Grand
Palace with its beautiful and well-manicured garden
make a splendid background for photographs. The dome
of the Royal Sultan Abu Bakar Museum is reflective
of the European influence that manifested itself
during the colonial days. On the other hand, the
Johor Art Gallery displays a wide
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array
artefacts that relates to the rich Malay heritage.
And if you're looking for souvenirs to bring home,
stop over at Mawar Gift Shop and Johor Tourism
Information Centre (JOTIC).
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After
touring the city, perhaps you need some cooling
fresh air and what better way to relax than to visit
the waterfalls in Kota Tinggi. About 45 minutes
drive from JB, Kota Tinggi though rapidly developed,
has not lost its natural charm. Chalets are
available for those wishing to stay overnight.
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If
you're in for seafood, Kukup with its fishing
village provides fresh seafood at reasonable
price. Here you can even visit the fish farms.
And
for those seeking jungle adventure, the
Endau-Rompin National Park is an ideal place. The
park is
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to many unique varieties of tropical plants. The
Endau Rompin National Park covers some 488 sq.
kilometres of forest and is gazetted as the
country's second national park. This haven for
nature lovers is one of the few remaining lowland
forests in the country and possibly the oldest. In
1985 and 1986, a scientific expedition identified 25
new species of plants within the area and its rocks
and hills have been estimated to be 248 million
years old. But that is not all, its various legends
and myths add up to its overall appeal. |
After enjoying Endau-Rompin lush greenery, perhaps
it's time for some fun on the beach. Desaru is the
place to be. Its 25 kilometre-stretch of sandy beach
and the waves of the South China Sea make you yearn
for a longer holiday. You can choose from a few
hotels operating at the resort. Besides lazing under
the sun and tanning your skin, you have an array of
activities to while away your time…you can go
fishing, snorkelling, windsurfing, boating,
canoeing, swimming and jungle trekking. |
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Johor is also known for the islands off its eastern
seaboard. Take your pick from these wonderful
islands - Rawa, Sibu, Aur, Besar and Pemanggil. They
will definitely make great escape from modern
bustling life in the city. |
A visit to a new place is not complete without
exploring its art and crafts. Ayer Hitam offers a
wide range of ceramics, porcelain and potteries. If
you're already in Ayer Hitam, then proceed to the
quaint town, Muar. This serene town is a good place
for you to sample delicious and inexpensive food at
the foodstalls and restaurants. The waterfalls at
the foot of Mount Ophir (Gunung Ledang) are also
accessible from Muar. |
If you want to taste Johor's famed pineapples,
hasten to Pontian, about an hour's drive from Johor
Bahru. The town is also the staging point for
visitors going to Gunung Pulai - a place for
waterfall picnic and jungle trekking. |
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Just like any other states in Malaysia, Johor food
is not to be missed. Among the popular ones are
Laksa Johor, Briyani Gam and Otak-otak. Laksa Johor
is a combination of spaghetti-like noodle, fish
gravy and condiments such as cucumber, onions and
salad. If you want the extra spicy "kick",
add some sambal, a special |
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paste to go with the dish. You should also try the
Briyani Gam - special rice cooked with spices and
eaten with chicken, beef or mutton. If you want
something light, then try the Otak-otak. Otak-otak
is a traditional grilled fish cake wrapped in
coconut leaf - good to be eaten as appetiser. While
you're savouring the food, perhaps you'll also get
to enjoy the well-known traditional dance - kuda
kepang. You'll be mesmerised by the charm of the
dancers and their graceful movements. |
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With
such fascinating features of Johor, there is no
reason why you shouldn't visit this southern gem of
peninsular Malaysia.
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