Larry Pruitt's Exotic Treks
Po.Box 26531
Eugene, Oregon USA 97402
Ph or Fax 1-541-687-6685
Email hunter_tracker@excite.com

POPULATION:

20 Million. Contrasts of racial and cultural roots, with predominance of Malays, Chinese and Indians. Smaller groups in the community such as Sikhs, Eurasians and indigenous groups like the Ibans, Bidayuhs, Kadazans and Muruts which are often found in Sabah and Sarawak. The official language is Bahasa Malaysia, but the ethnic groups still use their mother tongue for communication among themselves. However, English is widely spoken in the country.

CLIMATE:

With a temperature that fluctuates little throughout the year, travel in Malaysia is a pleasure. Average temperature is between 21* C - 32* C. Humidity is high. Rain tends to occur between November to February on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, on western Sarawak, and north-eastern Sabah.On the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia the rainy season is April to May and October to November.

PASSPORT:

Visitor to Malaysia must be in possession of valid passport/travel documents with a minimum validity of six months beyond the period of intended stay. In the case of national passport not recognized by the Malaysian Government, the holder must be in possession of a document in lieu of passport obtainable at the nearest Malaysian Mission abroad. The national passport holder must also ensure his re-entry into the country of his citizenship.

VISA:

Is not requested to enter Malaysia, except for a few countries (Check with your Country Malaysian Mission). The travelers can obtain either a social or business visa, for a period of one week and not exceeding three months. Passport is necessary for visitor traveling between Sabah and Sarawak.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:

Upon arrival visitors must fill up the immigration and custom declaration forms. All visitors have to declare the foreign currency in possession, to avoid confiscation by the custom before leaving the country.For international flights the airport tax is RM 40 while for domestic flights the tax is RM 5.

CURRENCY:

Foreign currencies can be changed at banks or authorized money- changer throughout the country. Malaysian currency consist of the Ringgit Malaysia (RM) which is worth 100 sen. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 10, 50 sen and 1 Ringgit, currency notes are in 1, 2, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1.000 rm. Traveler's cheques and credit cards (American express, Barclays, Visa, Diners and Master card) are accepted in any bank, money changer and large shopping complexes.

MAIL:

Aerogrammes cost 50 sen to all countries. Postcards and letters vary. Enquire at the post office.

CUSTOMS:

Items such as video equipment, cameras, radio cassette players, watches, pens, lighters, perfumes and cosmetics are duty-free items in Malaysia. Visitors bringing in dutiable goods may have to pay a deposit for temporary importation, refundable on departure.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS:

IDD or trunk calls may be dialed direct using area codes or assisted by the operator.

BUSINESS HOURS:

Banks: 9.30 am - 3.30 pm (Mon to Fri) 9.30 am - 11.30 am (Sat), Shopping complexes: 10 am - 10 pm daily

WHAT TO WEAR:

As Malaysia's climate is sunny almost year round, light clothing is ideal. It is advisable for ladies, when entering mosques and temples, to wear long sleeves and loose pants or long skirts.

TIME:

Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

HEALTH:

No vaccination is required for cholera and smallpox. Water is generally safe to drink straight from the tap. Bottled mineral water is easily available in shops and supermarket Which I Recommend. In the event you need medical care, there are private clinics in most towns. It is a good idea to take out a medical insurance before you travel as Malaysia does not have reciprocal health service agreements with other nations. For over-the-counter prescriptions, there are pharmacies and 'Chinese medical halls'.

ELETRICAL SUPPLY:

Electric supply is on a 240-volt 50-cycle system.

ETIQUETTE:

To avoid "cultural offences", here are some tips: · Remove shoes when entering homes and places of worship. · Dress neatly in a suitable attire which covers arms and legs when visiting places of worship. · Handle food with your right hand. · Do not point your foot at some one.

Spot Adventures: Malaysia Tours : A friend in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia's Spot Adventure Tours, in Kuala Lumpur provides the same professionality, attention to details, high quality services.

Our local staff is experienced and English Speaking.

Spot Adventure Tours offers a total destination management service for your travel arrangements in Malaysia. We will provide the high level of personalized service expected by tour operators all over the world, with special attention.

In our confidential tariff you will find the classic itineraries prepared to visit the country in the best way, by car, boat or by bus or even airplane. The accommodations are provided in the best available hotels whether you need to pinch pennies or have deluxe or superior 5 star service. We also provide meals in our deluxe programs at the hotels' restaurants with a choice of menu. There are up-gradings for honey-mooners and special conditions for long staying guests.

We can, of course organize tailor made trips, and special quotations for groups, meetings and incentives : just let us know and we will be glad to answer any of your requests.

We can Provide Fishing Trips, Scuba Snorkle trips, Camping, Jungle Trekking, Shopping, Sightseeing, Or just quiet Relaxation.

TOURS

KUALA LUMPUR

KUALA LUMPUR CITY TOUR KUL-CT
The tour starts by viewing a fine range of intricate Malaysian Handicrafts at Karyaneka. Pass through the busy city center and witness the longest painting in the world on the walls of the Pudu Jail and cruise along Independence Square before driving through Chinatown. Drive up to the King's Palace and the river confluence at Masjid Jamek, where Kuala Lumpur was founded.

Visit the National Monument which was built in dedication to the fallen heroes before stopping at the National Museum for an insight of the Country as a whole. Witness a fine Moorish Architecture from the 19th Century which are Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the Railway Station. Catch a glimpse of the National Mosque.

MALACCA TOUR MKZ-FD

In the morning depart for a full day tour to Malacca, which is 160 kilometers to the south of Kuala Lumpur. Malacca was founded by Parameswara, a Hindu Prince from Palembang whom later converted to Islam in 1402. This state is the most important landmark in the country. Malacca had been also ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch and English. The ruins and building of these foreign powers can still be seen today, in the midst of the fast developing, but carefully planned township.The Porta de Santiago, St Paul's Church, the Stadhuys Building, Christchurch, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple (Oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia), Jonker Street, jade house showroom and Bukit China are among the places to visit.

COUNTRY TOUR KUL-CY

The tour begins with a drive along the out skirt of the city through the Ambassador's row and Rumah Malaysia. Stop at a rubber estate and learn how rubber is tapped. Visit the Batik entrepreneur and witness how a simple plain cotton cloth is transformed into colourful exotic patterns by hand. The Pewter factory awaits visitors and never fails to amaze visitors with the skilled workers abilities to produce handcrafted pewter ware. Proceed to the famous Batu Caves which gathers half a million people yearly during the Thaipusam. Climb up the 272 steps to witness the fascinating cave structures. Along the route view the local traditional Malay Villages and take a brief stop at the Butterfly and Insect shop. Whenever time permits, take a stroll through the Bukit Tunku, an exclusive residential area.

CHINATOWN NIGHT TOUR KUL-NT

Kuala Lumpur by night is completely transformed into the city of lights. The Sultan Abdul Samad building is a unique Moorish architectural building amidst the sky scrappers of Kuala Lumpur. Sri Mahamariaman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in the city, located within walking distance from the Chinatown. Chinatown is a unique night market with open air stalls frequented by people from all walks of life. Be prepared for a good bargains for clothes, leather goods and genuine imitations. Sample some local food and fruits from the ever friendly traders. Optional Malay Buffet Dinner and Cultural Show offers a sumptuous variety of authentic Malay cuisine, spicy or otherwise. For the rest of the evening you will be entertained by the traditional cultural Malay dances and song accompanied by the traditional musical instruments.

SELANGOR FIREFLIES TOURS KUL-FF

Be prepared for a fascinating sight displayed by millions of fireflies synchronize in the dark moonless night on a wooden sampan rowed by an experienced "helmsman". Seafood dinner will be served at a local restaurant. Along the journey drive past many local villages, plantations(rubber, palm oil, cocoa and coconut) and a pewter factory and showroom.

WHITE WATER RAFTING KUL-WR

For those who are looking for an adventurous outing, we welcome you on our exciting white water rafting tour. The rapids are categorized between Grade 1 and Grade 3, depending on the water level. Safety helmets and life jackets are provided. You need not have the experience, but the ability to stay afloat is required for this tour. Time will be given for the participants to practice to coordinate as a team before going through the rapids. Rafting time will be approximately 75 minutes and there are 10 rapids along the river. The journey by road will take approximately 3 hours one-way and we will stop at places of interest such as native museum, local villages and plantations.

PENANG

ROUND ISLAND TOUR PEN-RI

Drive along the famous Batu Ferringhi road and enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean and on a clear day catch a glimpse of Mount Jerai on the mainland. Take a brief stop at a fishing village and the Batik Factory to view some various designs printed in batik. Visit the famous Butterfly Farm (entrance fees not included) which is the first of its kind in Asia where you will find hundreds of tropical butterfly species flying freely in a well-landscaped garden. Stop at a local fruit stall and visit the famous Snake Temple.

HILL & TEMPLE PEN-HT

Visit the Kek Lok Si Temple, the most beautiful and largest Buddhist temple in South East Asia. The temple with its seven storey pagoda standing at 30 meters is very unique due to the Chinese, Thai and Burmese influences in the architecture and craftsmanship of the entire temple complex. Enjoy a cooler environment at the Penang Hill which is 821 meters above sea-level, permitting viewers a panoramic view of the island as well as the mainland. The mode of transportation up and down the hill is by electric powered train.

GEORGETOWN CITY TOUR PEN-CT

Visit the reclining Buddha at the Wat Chayamangkalaram, the 4th longest reclining Buddha in the world. Next visit the Fort Cornwallis of the East India Co., where Captain Francis Light landed in 1786. View the heritage of the Khoo Kongsi Clan house, where you will be fascinated by the detailed carvings on the walls, pillars and roofs by master craftsmen from China. Finally, stop at the Botanical Gardens which offers a lush green surroundings with a variety of tropical plants and birdlife. Beware of the monkeys that await some feeding from visitors, but please do not feed the monkeys.

LANGKAWI

ROUND ISLAND TOUR LGK-RI

Langkawi Island natural scenery will be part of the attractions beside the legendary places such as the Field of Burnt Rice, the Tomb of Mahsuri, a Batik and Marble Factory, Tanjung Rhu and shopping at the Kuah Town.

ISLAND HOPPING LGK-IH

Explore the various islands off the coast Langkawi Island for a change. Pulau Singa Besar (an animal sanctuary), Pulau Dayang Bunting (an island of intriguing legend with a fresh water lake) and Pulau Beras Basah (a great place for swimming and sun-tanning) are some of the islands worth exploring.

MANGROVE TOUR LGK-MG

Explore by boat the Langkawi's rugged coastline, limestone rock formation, bird life (including the rare brown wing stork-bill Kingfisher), colourful corals and the amazing mangrove forest.

PULAU PAYA MARINE PARK LGK-PP

This island is a marine park with a large number of marine life inhabiting the sea off the south coast of Langkawi. Pulau Paya is a must for snorkeling and scuba diving. For diving purposes, one has to be a qualified diver in order to dive.

KUANTAN

VILLAGE TOURS KUA-VT

Take a 45 km drive north of Kuantan along the coastline of the South China Sea, flecked with coconut trees, colourful fishing boats and picturesque villages. To experience the local way of life, stop at the Beserah Fishing Village and stand a chance of seeing a fishermen hauling in their catch to be processed as salted fish (anchovies). Proceed to a Malay village to see local women working on intricate handicrafts. On the way back, stop to see how brown palm sugar and vinegar are made.

PANCHING KUA-PC

Discover a Buddhist cave monastery some 26 kilometers northwest of Kuantan towards the tin mining town of Sungai Lembing. The Bukit Cherah limestone stands above the rubber and palm-oil plantations. Climb up the steep narrow footway which leads to the entrance of the cave. The cave is lighted by a generator operated by the monk. At noon when the sunlight creeps through a natural opening in the roof, it lights up the 9 meter reclining Buddha built some 20 years ago by a Siamese monk.

LAKE CHINI TOUR KUA-LC

Lake Chini is an attraction for nature lovers with a spirit for adventure. This natural attraction is riddled with fiction and facts. Located in the wild and surrounded by mountains, Lake Chini is 90 kms southwest of Kuantan and is assesssible by a 40 minute boat (sampan) ride beneath the shade of tropical trees lining the narrow winding river. When in season, one could see beautiful pink lotus in full bloom. Visit the Orang Asli settlement for an insight of their traditional ways of hunting with the use of a blow-pipe.

KUALA TERENGGANU TOUR KUA-KT

Drive 230 kms north of Kuantan, passing through beautiful yet tranquil malay villages, coconut trees and fishing bays marking the coastal road. Visit the local market to experience the colourful atmosphere of the typical lifestyle of the East Coast. In the town, one will be able to see the Palace and several old buildings shadowed with history. A stop at some local handicrafts shops and the most important being the silk factory. Take a lunch break (on own account) before our journey back home.

contact: Simon Teo
ph 019-758-3460
11A,Jalan 11, Taman Delima, 86000
Kluang, Johor, Malaysia
Ph or Fax 607 773 1408

in the USA contact;
Larry Pruitt's Exotic Treks
Po.Box 26531
Eugene, Oregon USA 97402
Ph or Fax 1-541-687-6685
Email hunter_tracker@excite.com

An early morning drive up north to the fishing village of Marang to catch the boat for the Kapas Island. The name "Kapas", meaning cotton, is given to this island because of the softness of the sand on the beach. Sun bathing, trekking into the jungle to discover the flora and fauna and snorkeling are some of the things that one could do in Kapas Island. Corals are abundant and the water is clear enough to see the colours of the tropical fishes from the surface.

KUCHING

KUCHING CITY TOUR KCH-CT

This comprehensive tour covers a wide range of interesting places including historical buildings and monuments. A leisurely drive through the riverine capital city brings us to the Kuching South City Hall. After that, proceed to the gigantic cat statue located in front of the entrance to the China Town. Cruise through the China Town until the next stop at the Tua Pek Kong temple built in 1876 - the oldest Chinese Temple in Sarawak. From this temple you will be able to see Fort Margherita which was built in 1879. Today the Fort has been converted into a police museum. Next destination will be the modern civic center where you will get a panoramic view of the city from the tower. After the tower, proceed to the oldest suspension bridge across the Sarawak River at Satok. The bridge was built in 1962 amidst the Malay villages and traditional houses built on stilts. You will be able to see the Kuching Mosque, built in 1968. As you pass through the city, you will witness the Astana, the imposing palace on the north bank of the river opposite the Waterfront, was built in 1870 by Charles Brooke as a bridal gift to his wife Margaret. Today, it is the official residence of the Head of State of Sarawak. At the Kuching Waterfront, you can see the old colonial Court House with the Clock Tower and a granite obelisk built in memory of the second White Rajah - Charles Brooke. After that, take a tour along the wet market at Gambier Street. The final stopover is the Sarawak Museum - one of the finest in the world.

SARAWAK CULTURAL VILLAGE KCH-CV

Sarawak Cultural Village, a unique award-winning living museum offering an excellent introduction to local cultures and lifestyles. This village is located at the foot of the Legendary Mount Santubong. There are seven representative ethnic houses - The Bidayuh (Land Dayak) longhouse, Iban (Sea Dayak) longhouse, Penan Hut, Orang Ulu (Up-river Dayak) longhouse, Melanau tall house, Malay town house and Chinese farm house. The houses are built according to the authentic styles and furnish with real traditional artifacts. All the buildings are staffed with members of the various ethnic groups and "story-teller" who is expert in describing and interpreting traditional cultures and lifestyles. Cultural show is also performed where you can witness different ethnic groups presenting their colourful tribal dance.

SARAWAK RIVER CRUISE KCH-RC

Cruise along the waterway at sunset on an air-conditioned boat. Along the cruise you will be able to get a different view of the lifestyle of the locals and the attraction that can be seen along the riverbanks. We will pass by the Astana and Fort Margherita.(Optional dinner)

BAKO NATIONAL PARK KCH-BP

A National Park since 1957, Bako covers an area of 27 sq km. Bako contains a large range of vegetation, ranging from lush cliff and lowland dipterocarp forest to almost desert-like scrubs on the upper plateau. Among these vegetation are the carnivorous plants of the pitcher, sundews and bladderworts family. The mangrove forest is a home for the long-nosed or proboscis monkeys(endemic only to Borneo), long-tailed macaques, silver-leaf monkeys, monitor lizards, deers and wild boars. We will go on a jungle walk and Bako also offers some good white sand beaches that provide perfect resting spots in between jungle walks. Enjoy the unusual beauties of eroded rocks and cliff while you deep in the warm waters of the South China Sea. (Lunch)

SABAH

- KOTA KINABALU

KOTA KINABALU CITY TOUR BKI-CT

Kota Kinabalu highlights which cover the Signal Hill Observatory Pavillion for a bird's eye view of the town, the Yayasan Sabah Foundation - the highest building in Sabah with its unique hanging Polygon Structure, the Poh Toh Tze Chinese Temple which provides its majestic statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin and a massive 300 Ibs bell. Sabah State Museum will provide you with an inside knowledge of our rich cultures and races and the State Mosque which is the third largest in Malaysia.

TUNKU ABDUL RAHAMAN ISLAND PARK BKI-IT

You will be met at your hotel by our guide and transfer to the jetty for a boat ride to one of the islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Upon arrival, bask in the sun on the clear white sandy beaches, swim and snorkel or explore the trails on the islands. Lunch will be provided and late afternoon, transfer back to mainland.(Lunch) NOTE : Minimum 2 persons. Rental of the snorkeling set and diving equipment are available upon request.

TENOM TRAIN EXPERIENCE BKI-TT

Board a train at the Tanjung Aru Railway Station to Tenom. Experience the only railroad in Borneo built in 1896. The train travels along the Padas George, through the rubber estates and villages. Upon arrival you will be met by our guide and drive up to Lagud Sebrang(30 km) and visit the Orchid Center, home to over 600 species of orchids. Visit the Living Crop Museum of the tropical fruits and beverage trees before departing back to Kota Kinabalu. (Lunch)

KOTA KINABALU NATIONAL PARK & PORING HOT SPRING BKI-PP

The trip begins with a 2 hour drive from Kota Kinabalu through the industrial area and across the spectacular mountain scenery. Upon arrival, experience the cool fresh air and beautiful environment of the Park. Join the Jungle Guided Walk with the Park Naturalist. Lunch will be served at the Park's restaurant before proceeding on a brief tour of the Kundasang area. Proceed to the Poring Hot Spring, east of the Kinabalu Park Headquarters. Vegetation here is the Tropical Lowland Rainforest. Explore the jungle trails leading up to the treetop Canopy Walkways, 50m above the forest floor. Soak in the Hot Sulphuric Tub before returning to the Kota Kinabalu.

SANDAKAN

SEPILOK SANCTUARY SDK-SS

The Sepilok Sanctuary which is about 15 minutes drive form Sandakan, is the world's largest Orang Utan sanctuary. The Orang Utans (jungle men of Borneo) which are rehabilitated at this sanctuary were formerly abandoned by their mothers or were formerly in captivity. Once they are fit enough to the return to the wild, the Orang Utans will be released. It is a pure delight to see these charming and entertaining Orang Utans especially during their feeding time at 1000 hrs and 1430 hrs.

BEACH STAY 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS IN BORNEO

PACKAGES INCLUSIVE OF 2 NIGHTS ACCOMODATION WITH ABF AND RETURN AIRPORT TRANSFERS.

DESTINATIONS
DAMAI BEACH EX KUCHING AIRPORT/CITY BCH-DM
RASA RIA EX KOTA KINABALU AIRPORT/CITY BCH-RR
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Contact:
Larry Pruitt's Exotic Treks
Po.Box 26531
Eugene, Oregon USA 97402
Ph or Fax 1-541-687-6685

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