Feature Archives

One Day in Kuala Lumpur – What To Do in A Day in Malaysia’s Capital City

Jul 19, 2019 | Feature, Malaysia, Selangor - Malacca

When you only have one day in Kuala Lumpur, for whatever reasons it could be, here are the places you must visit in a day in Malaysia’s Capital City.

You better have your running shoes on when you only have one day in Kuala Lumpur. A day trip to Malaysia’s Capital City will be pretty hectic, and you won’t have time for a coffee break.

Just kidding, there’s always time for coffee on your KL City tour!

Anyway, you’re not going to be able to reach all of the Kuala Lumpur Tourist attractions on your big day out. A one day trip to Kuala Lumpur will not allow for it.

The reasons are that not everything within the city limits is near, and with the manic traffic, keeping close to the city and using the monorail or subway is the best option for a short trip.

In this Kuala Lumpur day tour itinerary, we’ll keep most activities compacted to the city. If you’re to follow this path, you’re bound to see plenty of Kl attractions of heritage buildings, shopping malls, beautiful gardens, taste great food and even visit a couple of famous buildings.

One day in Kuala Lumpur! Let’s get into the big day out, and by the day’s end, you’ll be buying a cold beer and chillin’ at the bar because the petrol tickets would have run out.

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Discovering Kuala Lumpur – You’ll love it.

One Day in Kuala Lumpur – Places To Go In A Day in Malaysia’s Capital City

The first thing is first, the best transportation options in KL

Public transport is not expensive in Malaysia, and if you’re having a one day trip in KL, you should buy a KL Rapid Card. This pass will allow you to ride on the bus, monorail or train system in Kuala Lumpur. Your only job is to make sure you’re topping the card up with enough funds.

Personally, the best way around KL is to download the Grab App (UBER), register your details and go from there. The downfall with the Grab is the waiting time can be excessive, and when you don’t have time to waste, it causes unfortunate delays.

Alternatively, you can get around with a taxi, it’s twice the cost of Grab, but taxis are everywhere in the city, so it’s easily accessible.

Final word to the wise: don’t waste your time with a taxi/Grab in the morning or evening peak hours. While the KL traffic is extreme at most times, it’s a nightmare during peak hours.

During rush hour, stick to walking the streets of Kuala Lumpur or catch a train or monorail instead.

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Let the monorail take you around the city.

Attractions left out of one-day Kuala Lumpur City Tour Itinerary.

A few tourist places in KL are bound to be missed in a mad rush around a major city.

In this Kuala Lumpur itinerary, a few distant attractions like the Batu Caves, Sunway Lagoon and Genting Highlands are excluded. These KL attractions are a distance from the City Centre, and it’ll demand a few hours of your time.

If your motto while travelling is less is more, by all means, add Batu Caves and include other major attractions, like the Petronas Towers and KL Tower.

No matter which way you go about it, you’re bound to have a great day out in KL.

Let’s begin the one day in Kuala Lumpur!

The Lord Murugan Statue at Batu Caves.

Begin the morning at Perdana Botanical Gardens

In the scorching heat of Malaysia, a morning walk through the Perdana Botanical Gardens is the ideal way to start the day trip in Kuala Lumpur.

With free entry to the gardens, it’s recommended to spend time walking in nature before heading to the hustle and bustle of the city.

There is a variety of things to do in the Botanical Gardens. You can visit the Hibiscus Gardens, walk through the Sunken Garden, view beautiful water features during your quiet walk and wander around the picturesque Lake Garden for shade and relaxation.

The activities will mount, but what will be appreciated most is the laid-back and peaceful nature of the Perdana Botanical Gardens.

Enjoy a picturesque one day in Kuala Lumpur with a Gardens tour with Klook!

Perdana Botanical Gardens.

Go Heritage with Merdeka Square and Central Market in your KL one day trip

Once finished with the delightful gardens, it’s heritage time in your KL City tour with the Merdeka Square, known locally as Dataran Merdeka, in translation meaning Independence Square.

Heritage buildings within Merdeka Square include the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, The Kuala Lumpur City Gallery, St Mary’s Anglican Cathedral and many more camera-worthy snapshots of well-constructed buildings.

Once you walk through Merdeka Square, the Central Markets is another landmark building not too far away and provides fascinating local shopping within a two-story building.

Central Market is an indoor and outdoor market layout where you can browse through different stalls in the comfort of a closed roof.

Inside Central Market, there is a range of goods for sale from traditional clothing, souvenirs, unique jewellery and beautiful art, which will undoubtedly capture your attention.

Outside the markets, the products are modern and may suit your style preference as you search for the next bargain on your KL trip.

Merdeka Sqaure in KL.

Explore Chinatown and enjoy the vibrancy in the Kuala Lumpur City Tour

Chinatown Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant marketplace decorated with Chinese lanterns and sells various goods usually seen in a famous Asian market. Including popular souvenirs to bring back home for memories of your KL trip.

By the time you have wandered through Chinatown KL, it should be lunchtime. There are many tasty Chinese street foods within the markets, such as the delicious dim sims, pork bun rolls, and other delicious goods to snack on while walking around.

You’ll also find plenty of sit-down restaurants too when you need to rest your feet at the halfway point of your one day trip in KL.

Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur Style.

Visit KL Towers and the KL Forest ECO Park

A taxi or Grab is probably the best way to go from Chinatown to the KL Tower. Precious time can’t afford to be wasted in your busy afternoon schedule as you visit one of the best attractions in KL.

The KL Tower is appropriately priced to gain entrance to the Sky Deck, which has unbelievable city views.

There are added things to do other than take pictures of the city skyline at the Sky Deck. Inside, you can test your fear of heights by stepping into the glass cube and enjoying panoramic views at the Revolving 360 restaurant.

At the base of the tower, if you choose to avoid the Sky Deck, you can check out the mini-zoo and other minor attractions to enjoy the Tower experience from a different angle.

Not too far from the tower is the beautiful KL Forest ECO Park; it’s free entry and gives you respite from the typical heat of Malaysia.

It’s a laid-back nature walk on the doorstep to the city and has plenty of bushlands, gardens, skywalks and more views of the KL Tower.

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Eco Forest and the KL Tower.

Visiting Bukit Bintang and dinner at Jalan Alor Night Food Market

When the sun begins to come down over Kuala Lumpur, it’s time to go to the hottest tourist spot in the city, Bukit Bintang.

Bukit Bintang is a famous nightspot and offers plenty of shopping, cafes and Malaysian food experience at the Jalan Alor Night Food Market, the perfect place for dinner.

The Jalan Alor Night Food Court contains many food outlets with a variety of cuisines, such as grilled meats, Asian soups and famous Chinese dishes. At Jalan Alor, you can either sit down a-la-carte style or purchase street food and eat on the run to enjoy the carnival-like atmosphere of the food market.

For those who need more retail therapy in their one day in Kuala Lumpur, shopping is a must a Bukit Bintang, thanks to the number one Shopping Mall, The Pavilion. The Mall is a city within a city and has an impressive food court, cafes, bars and Retail Outlets that will dent the credit card.

There are other retail outlets along the streets of Bukit Bintang where you can purchase stylish and fashionable clothing. An extensive range of fashion accessories such as quality jewellery, sports goods, unique art and a selection of your favourite stationery.

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Wandering through the Pavilion Mall!

Conclude the hectic day at Petronas Twin Towers under the night sky

Leaving the most famous tourist attraction in KL for last, The Petronas Twin towers light up the city at night and looks incredible, especially from ground zero.

Whether you elect to view the 86th floor of the Observation deck is up to you. The experience is not cheap, and sometimes that fate is out of your hands anyway as sessions are generally sold out and you need to book in advance.

It’s advised to plan accordingly and book a session time in advance, it’s worthwhile because you never know when you’ll see the Petronas again.

If you don’t make it to the top, no big deal, the best pictures of Petronas are taken from the base looking up at the incredible Twin Buildings.

The best vantage points are at the front of the towers or the rear at the KLCC park, where you can capture more great photos of a tower that certainly stands out in an incredible city.

When you’re done marvelling the star attraction, depending on the time you have available, there is plenty to do in KLCC.

You can go inside the Suria Mall under the Petronas and experience another fantastic shopping experience with popular retail outlets and excellent food choices.

Alternatively, you may want to wander the streets of KLCC and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in one of the several bars located in the area for a drink or two, recovering from a big day.

It’s one day in Kuala Lumpur; it’s been rushed, quite chaotic, and memorable all in one.

Who knows, if the days allow for it, you may change your Malaysia itinerary to include KL for a more extended stay, because one day, is never enough.

Suria Mall and Petronas Twin Towers come together.

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An Evening Tour in Kuala Selangor – A Short Trip From Kuala Lumpur

Jul 10, 2019 | Feature, Malaysia, Selangor - Malacca

An evening in Kuala Selangor is the tonic you need for your Malaysia trip when you’re looking for a brief getaway from Kuala Lumpur.

It’s a short detour you must partake in during your Kuala Lumpur holiday.

An evening in Kuala Selangor will be a welcomed decision to your Malaysian Itinerary as you leave the chaotic streets of the big city behind and check out the laid-back town along the West Coast.

There are several searching reasons to visit Selangor, which we found out during our evening tour of the boutique town when a tour guide from Kuala Lumpur took us for a drive down the Motorway Way to visit a Kuala Selangor attraction or two.

What happened next was an evening of surprise as we saw many hungry monkeys, had a delicious seafood dinner along the Selangor River with spectacular views and watched the magic of the Kuala Selangor fireflies in the night sky.

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An Evening in Kuala Selangor – Malaysia.

Where is Kuala Selangor, Malaysia

Depending on the traffic getting out of the city, Kuala Selangor is approximately 90-minutes from Kuala Lumpur and is perfect for a short tour or for spending a couple of days in the quiet coastal town off the strait of Malacca.

The best way to get to Selangor is via bus or train, which only costs around 16-Malaysian Ringgit ($4). You can also go via taxi for around 165-Malaysian Ringgit ($40) or hire a car and tour Malaysia with freedom.

On the way to a beautiful destination which is only a short drive from KL, it makes for the perfect evening.

Finding a Kuala Selangor Tour from Kuala Lumpur

Fireflies and Kuala Selangor tours are frequent day trips from Kuala Lumpur that go deep into the night. Most tours run for approximately 6-8-hours and usually departs Kuala Lumpur in the afternoon, meaning you’ll be in Selangor to watch a magnificent sunset and to have a picturesque dinner by the river.

The best firefly tour in KL to Selangor is found through Get Your Guide with excellent prices, and you can have a large selection of trips to choose from when visiting Selangor.

A day tour with the monkeys, fireflies and a delicious seafood dinner, what more could ask for in an afternoon and evening in Malaysia.?

The monkeys at Taman Alam

When we went on our Kuala Selangor evening tour, our first stop was at Taman Alum Kuala Selangor Nature Park, a beautiful nature strip of over 200-hectares with lots of flora, fauna and species of wildlife.

Within the reserve, there is plenty of black and brown coloured monkeys running around and eager for scraps of food, that they’ll do anything to get their feed. The black monkeys will even jump all over you and sometimes you’ll have two or three hanging over your shoulder.

While both species of monkeys are friendly enough, the nearby locals will give you a significant bit of advice upon arrival. That advice is, the black monkeys are free of viruses, even if they were to accidentally scratch or bite you.

However, the grey monkeys are not, and you’ll have to visit a doctor if scratched or bitten by one. The grey monkeys don’t typically jump on you, nor are you suggested to feed them; however, it is a word to the wise if visiting Taman Alam.

The monkeys at Taman Alum Kuala Selangor are the enjoyment of the tourist spot.

Delicious Seafood along the Selangor River

If you love seafood, you’re going to love the Kuala Selangor Seafood, with many restaurants situated off the main river and providing the perfect scenic dinner with a magnificent sunset.

The best seafood restaurant in Kuala Selangor is Kuang Wah Seafood, with an array of assorted seafood such as fresh crabs and prawns, fish and other seafood delicacies.

There is even a choice of different Asian cuisines like sweet and sour pork and a large bowl of fried rice which will go perfectly with your meal.

The Seafood at Kuala Selangor is nothing short of sensational, as you sit down for a perfect evening tasting the delicious cuisines and enjoying the spectacular views over the Selangor River.

A seafood feast by the Selangor River, it’s delicious food with a fantastic view at sundown.

The Kuala Selangor fireflies create a little light in the dark

When the sun has fully set over the Strait of Malacca, it’s time for the firefly, Malaysia Style.

I will have to apologise from the outset; I have no quality pictures of the event because to get the full effect of the flies, it needed to be pitch black, meaning cameras were useless.

To catch a glimpse of a few fireflies in the clear night sky, it took place on a slow and quiet longboat. In this scenario,it’s a case of wait and see for the experience, because while fireflies are often out,it’s a matter of how many are seen, and fortunately, we saw quite a few.

The experience was not bad; however,it’s only worth the tour price if other attractions are included; it’s not enough to visit Selangor only to view the fireflies.

For our tour, we got quite fortunate. There were many fireflies along the banks of the river. It was a beautiful evening in Kuala Selangor, with the peaceful sounds in the nature reserve the only things heard.

An evening tour to Kuala Selangor,it’s the perfect little getaway where you can experience a few excellent attractions in the one trip. When you’re looking for extra activities during your Kuala Lumpur Itinerary give the West Coast a call, it may be what you are seeking during your Malaysia Holiday.

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A family tour from KL to the fireflies.

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Why You Need To Go Travel More Frequently Every Single Year

Jul 10, 2019 | Feature

Life is a hard slog; there is no doubting that aspect.

Whether you work in a 9-5 desk office job or the rigours of shift work in a dark mine, nothing comes easy in life when you think of the demands of paying your mortgage and providing the best situation for your family.

The stress levels can rise through the roof.

A demanding lifestyle is a non-negotiable in adulthood, and we do what we have to do not just to stay afloat but to keep ahead.

So every week, we count the days to the weekend, but sometimes we creep a little forward in time and begin counting down the weeks or days until the next vacation.

The question needs to be asked, why wouldn’t you go and travel more frequently?

The issues of travel come in a range of topics, affordability, lack of time, lack of annual leave, fear of flying, hate travelling (not if your reading this) and it all mounts up.

They’re all understandable excuses, some valid but travel doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, because there are alternatives, but more on that later.

Right now, I will get into a few valid points why you need to go travel more frequently because, in life, you need to live and breathe the world and not just work in it.

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Travelling twice a year can give you epic moments in life like Kayaking in Thailand.

Seven Reasons To Go Travel More Frequently Every Single Year

1. Forget about your problems: Work stress, mortgage, home life issues, you name it, the problems can add up and in this instance travel can assist with any mental health issues which arise.

Getting away for a week or two gets you away from the real world, and that’s crucial for unwinding and clearing your head.

Sometimes you might surprise yourself and come back from your holiday with bright space and solve a few of those life’s little problems that were still around before your vacation.

2. Go travel for yourself: Go on, you work hard, reward yourself, go and travel the world, because you only live once at it’s ideal to see as much of the world as possible.

3. Do it for your family: Don’t forget your purpose in life, which is to hold strong family values. Your family is the number one priority, and they should be treated as such.

You must remember the great memories in life that arise from a family holiday long after your kids have grown up and moved out.

4. Relaxation therapy: You can drink lots of alcohol, have plenty of relaxation massages, sleep in every day and go on lots of lovely walks to get the treatment in full swing.

It’s your holiday, and you can relax any way you wish, and anyhow you want.

5. Fewer days to your next holiday: There is nothing worse than getting back from a holiday with that depressing feeling of when the next vacation be incoming.

If you can, book the next one before you even go on the first trip; that’ll mean going back to work won’t be such a drag knowing you have a holiday to look forward to in the future.

6. Be the real you: Life is crazy and on edge at times. Going on holidays will get the real you out of the shadows or better you.

The real you is a good thing, especially for the partner and the little ones in your life.

7. You won’t be at work: Do you need more convincing than that, while on holiday, you won’t be at work, always a bonus.

Perfect for families too.

I know what you’re asking off the beat, Affordability? How can I afford to go on holiday more than once a year? Taking two trips a year doesn’t mean you’re are trekking Europe, having a safari in Africa, and touring the United States of America every time. Now that would be nice, but it’s not realistic.

You don’t even need to leave your home state or city to have a vacation. You don’t have to get on a plane; instead, you can take a road trip. No matter how you look at it, it’s still a holiday.

So what is the best way to travel more frequently in a single year without breaking the budget? I will give you five of the best ways to go about it.

Camping is a great way to have a family holiday.

How To Go and Travel More Frequently Every Single Year

1. Break up the type of holidays: Take one trip abroad or domestically by aeroplane, then alternatively, the next vacation can be closer to home, either in the city, by the seaside, or amongst nature in the forests.

2. Go camping in the sticks: That’s right, buy a reliable tent, a good size for the number of people attending, find an ideal site, whether it means roughing without any power or at a beautiful caravan park with perks.

Relaxing doesn’t mean drinking cocktails at a beach, it can also mean drinking a beer under the stars with an esky close by, while the sausages cook on the grill.

3. Look out for holiday deals: Whether it is a cheap flight or cheap hotel deals, you’ll often find great travel deals if you look hard enough.

Travel is a hot business in the modern world, and they’ll always be tempting you with useful, honest deals. Trust me, tourism outlets are looking for you and are still trying to entice you to holiday with them.

4. Keep close to home for a staycation: Sometimes your backyard has some of the most significant tourism gems that are waiting for you to discover it.

Open your eyes and don’t neglect what is around you; the best things in life are only moments away.

5. Split your annual leave: Don’t take your annual leave all at once and leave yourself hanging at least twelve months to the next holiday. Halve it, and be sure to treat yourself twice or three times a year.

There you have it — no more excuses.

Spoil yourself and spoil your family, holidays come and go, but memories stay with you forever. Why not travel and give yourself many happy and lasting memories. You never know; it might just give you that smile you need in that next mid-life crisis that seems to creep up to us in life. Happy travels.

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All smiles on holiday

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One Day in Kyoto – Top Tourist Attractions you Must Visit in a Day

Jun 29, 2019 | Feature, Japan

During your hectic Japan Itinerary, you may only have time for one day in Kyoto; it’s not enough, but here are the attractions you must visit on a day trip.

Download the PDF version of the top things to see in Kyoto – Japan!

One day in Kyoto, I can’t fathom why you’d want to have a single-day Kyoto tour, but in a world where we are rushed and continuously on the move, these things are hard to avoid during a hectic Japan trip.

My Kyoto Itinerary lasted four days. To be truthful, I wish it were longer, but I can tell you this: I logged around one hundred thousand steps on the old Fitbit because I didn’t want to miss a beat of all the things to do in Kyoto.

I saw many unique Kyoto attractions; most were mesmerising and inspiring to be near such history. It was apparent from the get-go that a Kyoto trip is highly recommended for all tourists visiting the country; it is a beautiful city.

It also made me realise why many travellers rush around the country to catch a glimpse of everything; this incredible country is one big tourist attraction after another.

If I had to spend one day in Kyoto, what would be the must-see attractions in such a short amount of time? This list is hard to do because, quite honestly, you will miss out on a fair bit if you don’t advance the Kyoto sightseeing tour further. However, I gave it my best shot for those crazy enough to be here for a single day.

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Get excited about your one day in Kyoto.

One Day in Kyoto – Top Tourist Attractions You Must Visit in a Day

In the vibrant city of Kyoto, it’s genuinely challenging to comprehend the reasons behind opting for a brief, single-day tour. However, in a world where time is a luxury and schedules are demanding, such expedited glimpses become somewhat inevitable, particularly in the whirlwind of a bustling trip across Japan.

Enjoy a Kyoto City Tour with Klook

Travel tour company Klook offers a fabulous Kyoto Day Tour Package. With this package, you can be picked up from Osaka or Kyoto and enjoy a scenic sightseeing Tour of Kyoto in a single day.

You’ll stop at plenty of the best landmarks and discover the famous ancient sites in Kyoto. You’ll see the best temples and shrines in the package, including Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkakuji Temple. You’ll also visit Arashiyama and the renowned Bamboo Grove, meaning you will not miss any of the best bits during your brief Kyoto tour.

You can click here to check out the prices and conditions of a Kyoto Day Tour Package with Klook!

The streets of Gion in your Kyoto Day tour are a must-see for a cultural experience.

Transportation in Kyoto

Transport in Kyoto is well-organised and runs like clockwork. Additionally, it’s a great city for walking, with plenty of footpaths and crossing lights to help you get from point A to point B.

However, walking won’t be enough for your one-day tour in Kyoto, as the city is large and spread out. But don’t worry; you can easily catch affordable trains and buses using your ICOCA card, allowing you to reach most attractions quickly without spending too much money. And if all else fails, taxis are readily available, although they can be expensive.

Start the Kyoto Day Trip with Higashiyama District in Eastern Kyoto

The Higashiyama District comprises a whole line of Kyoto attractions, and the famous area attracts many tourists and locals for sightseeing.

It is an excellent area to try fabulous Japanese cuisines, drink your favourite tea from a fancy Japanese tea house and admire the many temples and shrines associated with the District.

Let’s examine the must-see attractions in the Higashiyama District of Eastern Kyoto to help you start your single-day Kyoto Itinerary on the right foot.

Yasaka Shrine: Yasaka Shrine is worth your attention and is the first place to start when visiting Eastern Kyoto. It has dazzling colours and impressive structures, and the culture is alive, with many people wandering around in their Kimono dresses, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Kyoto Sightseeing at its best – Yasaka Shrine.

Kodai-Ji Temple: Constructed in 1606, the enchanting Kodai-Ji Temple is a sight to behold during your day trip to Kyoto. As you wander through the temple grounds, you’ll be captivated by the intricate details of the architecture, which beautifully complement the serene natural landscape that encircles the temple.

The temple’s delicate structures harmonise with the lush, mesmerising surroundings, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience for visitors.s.

Check out my main feature on the Kodai-Ji Temple with this link here!

The Kodai-Ji temple.

Ninenzaka: Ninenzaka is a famous street located in Kyoto, Japan. This charming thoroughfare is deeply immersed in Japanese culture and tradition and is lined with beautiful Japanese-style houses housing various retail outlets, traditional tea houses, and authentic restaurants.

As with any popular attraction in Kyoto, Ninenzaka is bustling with crowds who come to experience the area’s vibrant energy and soak in its cheerful atmosphere.

Ninenzaka.

Kiyomizudera: Located in Kyoto, Kiyomizudera is a magnificent temple that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name “Kiyomizudera” translates to “pure water.” It is renowned as one of the most visited temples in Kyoto. The temple’s architectural beauty and serene surroundings make it a captivating destination for tourists and locals alike.

One of the most cherished activities at Kiyomizudera is the opportunity to visit one of the waterfalls and partake in the tradition of touching the particular water. Water is believed to possess magical powers that bless those who contact it. This age-old tradition has drawn countless visitors seeking spiritual and physical well-being.

Visitors to Kiyomizudera can admire the temple’s stunning architectural design and panoramic views of Kyoto and participate in this unique ritual passed down through generations. This experience offers a sense of mystery and enchantment, adding an extra layer of significance to a visit to this remarkable site.

Kiyomizu-Dera Temple.

Move on Quickly to Kinkakuji Temple

When visiting Kyoto, it’s recommended that you take some time to visit Kinkakuji Temple. While spending a significant amount of time there is unnecessary, the temple is a must-see for tourists. The Golden Pavilion of the Kinkakuji Temple is truly a sight to behold, especially with the picturesque mountains in the background providing a stunning backdrop.

While the temple does not offer a wide array of activities, the opportunity to gaze at the incredible golden structure alone makes the price of admission worthwhile.

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Kinkaku-Ji temple.

A trip to Arashiyama is compulsory.

Arashiyama is a gold mine for tourists, and any trip to Japan is not complete without a visit to this popular tourist spot, which is situated a little outside of Kyoto.

There are many attractions to visit, including temples, gardens, tea houses, a monkey park, and the world-famous Bamboo Grove walk, which is a real hit with visitors.

However, the enormous appeal of Arashiyama is its natural beauty; it’s gorgeous to walk through the breathtaking attractions and take in the surroundings and nature around you.

Main attractions to quickly squeeze in at Arashiyama:

The Bamboo Grove: Thousands of bamboo trees are lined up as far as the eye can see as you walk down the path through the middle of the Bamboo tree. It is a beautiful place, even with all the crowds hanging around.

The Bamboo Grove.

Ten-Ryu Temple: The temple at Arashiyama is stunning, with its intricate architecture and serene surroundings. The abundance of natural beauty enveloping the temple creates a mesmerising backdrop, offering visitors a perfect opportunity to capture some genuinely picturesque moments.

Tenryu Temple.

Okochi Sanso Garden: Exploring Arashiyama offers a delightful experience with its stunning gardens, traditional Japanese architecture, and captivating panoramic views of Kyoto from the hills.

Although there is an admission fee to enter the garden, the experience is well worth it, especially when you visit the charming tea house and savour the delightful combination of green tea and sweet cake amidst the picturesque surroundings.

A Japanese house inside Okochi Sanso Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan.

A quick stroll down Katsura River: Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Katsura River by walking along its picturesque riverside. Breathe in the tranquillity and marvel at the natural surroundings as you meander along the riverbank.

Afterwards, treat yourself to a delightful bowl of ramen at one of the charming riverside restaurants. Here, you can savour the local flavours while enjoying the calming view of the flowing river. If you’re up for more adventure, consider embarking on a scenic boat ride to appreciate the serene ambience of the Katsura River.

Before returning to the lively town centre, consider catching a train to explore the next major attraction on your Kyoto Day Trip. Utilise the convenient transportation options to seamlessly continue your journey of discovery and make the most of your time in this captivating city.

View the stunning Katsura River of Arashiyama in Kyoto.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine

The last stop of the Kyoto places of interest during your one-day trip is the world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.

The main Shrine of the Fushimi is a stunning feature, with beautiful Japanese-decorated buildings in splendid bright colours. Amongst the large crowds, tourists gather for the best possible photo shoot.

Once you disperse from the crowds at the entrance’s main buildings, you go further into the Shrine until you reach the famous orange torii gates, the number one reason visitors visit the iconic attraction.

The Torii gates are meant to represent the staple of all holy Shinto sites, and the Fushimi Inari Shrine has thousands of them, which ultimately leads to a short hike through the bushlands as you follow the row of Torii Gates.

The length to hike through the Torii gates is approximately 2.4km. In the process, you’ll pass through grave sites and religious relics before walking down the hill and finding more incredible views that overlook Kyoto City. One final look over the region before you depart the city.

The Orange Torri Gates at Fushimi Irani Shrine.

If time remains, explore the city area.

You would have exhausted all your energy before you finally head back by train to your hotel in Osaka or even Tokyo. Perhaps you are catching the overnight bus to another destination in Japan for another busy day tomorrow.

With that in mind, you may have a little extra time to explore the area near Kyoto Station and relax in a café for coffee, eat a delicious Japanese meal for dinner or unwind with a cold beer at a nearby bar.

I don’t know if the energy levels allow you to keep moving, but one thing is sure: Your one day in Kyoto would have been full of fond memories you’ll never forget.

I doubt you’ll be returning for a more extended stay someday.

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Wandering through Nishiki Market in Kyoto City.

Hong Kong Day Trips which are Simply Eventful and Unforgettable

Jun 21, 2019 | Feature, Hong Kong - Macau

Hong Kong is a gift that is kept on being given to travellers.

It may be an East Asian destination, with a small inland space compared to its neighbour in China, but it’s big in terms of fascinating Hong Kong attractions that’ll delight any tourist in the region.

Hong Kong day trips are a common theme because once you leave your hotel room after a fulfilling breakfast, you won’t be back to your room until dark after exploring a specific area throughout the eventful day.

Choices were plenty with my family trip to the famous Region, Mainland China and the fabulous Shenzhen City on one side, and the unbelievable Macau ferry trip away, day tours from Hong Kong were eventful, yet exciting.

However, you don’t always need a passport to enjoy the best Hong Kong Day Trips with Lantau Island, Tsim Sha Shui or a hike at Lion Rock to keep the local adventures rolling.

Therefore, why don’t you take your notepad and pen and prepare for the upcoming Hong Kong trip?

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Enjoying the very best of the Hong Kong Day Trips.

The best Hong Kong Day Trips, which are Eventful and Unforgettable

Hong Kong is a captivating destination with many attractions catering to every traveller’s interests. Day trips in Hong Kong are particularly popular, offering a full day of exploration and adventure from morning until night. Whether visiting nearby regions like Mainland China and Shenzhen or taking a ferry to Macau, there are endless opportunities for exciting experiences. From exploring Lantau Island to wandering through Tsim Sha Tsui or hiking up Lion Rock, the local adventures in Hong Kong are diverse and memorable.

An active day at Disneyland

I have only been to one Disneyland in my life, so let me tell you this: If the other Disney’s are as good as the Hong Kong edition, then I have been missing out in a big way.

You have to forget the price for a moment because you’re not going to visit Hong Kong all the time. Once you enter through the gates of Disneyland, you are in for an epic day out that will last well until the sun has come down.

A fun adventure is a sure thing while you explore different worlds in Disneyland such as Adventure Land, Toy Story Land and Tomorrow Land, to name a few of the various themed lands available.

While out & about enjoying the sights of the glamorous theme park and experiencing the many dizzying rides, you’ll also get side-tracked by Live shows throughout the day, with Festival of the Lion King and the “We Love Mickey” projection show, a must-see event.

You’ll love the atmosphere along Main Street, where there is a carnival all day and night, with plenty of parades and live events. It’s the central location where you’ll find the best Disneyland souvenirs and buy a bite for lunch, although many specialty restaurants are in the park.

If you are seeking the cheapest tickets to Disneyland, you can’t beat Klook. They provide fantastic one-day passes and meal vouchers. You’ll save plenty of money purchasing through this method, especially if you buy multiple tickets.

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We are walking along Main Street in Disneyland Hong Kong.

Take in the glitz and the glamour of Macau.

I would recommend spending more than a day in Macau to fully explore the destination’s tourist attractions, which include many casinos, heritage buildings, cathedrals, and lively street thoroughfares.

However, when time doesn’t suffice with your crowded Hong Kong Itinerary, a day trip to Macau will be more than enough to explore the glitzy city, and there are ample opportunities to get a lot out of a one-day trip to Macau from Hong Kong.

A great way to see the best of Macau is via the Hop-on, Hop-off bus service, which will take you to all the best attractions, including Venetian Macau and the Gondola rides, Galaxy Macau, The Ruins of St Paul, The Fisherman’s Wharf, and The Macau Tower, to mention only a few.

Because, with this intended purpose, you’re only spending one day in Macau, you’ll want to stay until dark and check out the lavish nightlife of the vibrant area as the casinos take centre stage with gambling, live shows and an epic night out of drinking and fine dining.

Don’t fear about missing the last ferry. The previous cruise back to Hong Kong will depart Macau Ferry terminal at midnight, and if all else fails, the first-morning boat will leave at 7 a.m., meaning you could turn it into an all-night bender.

Best things to do in Macau

Wynn Macau
Venetian Macau
The Ruins of St Pauls
The Cathedral of Nativity of Our Lady
The A-Ma Temple

Watch Gondolas flow through the water at Venetian Macau.

A Ferry trip to Cheung Chau

The picturesque Cheung Chau Island is one of the best attractions for your Hong Kong trip.

Especially when you have had enough of the busy city area and want to head to the perfect island that offers culture, an excellent seafood feast and a bit of tropical life with stunning beaches and seaside bars.

Cheung Chau is around 50 minutes from Hong Kong Island by Ferry, making it the perfect day trip from Hong Kong. During your day trip, you can enjoy several hours of sightseeing and see plenty of the main tourist places.

Once on the active island, you can wander through the township with stacks of marketplaces for souvenir buying, and you’ll also find many cafés, including McDonald’s, where you can rest up with a hot or cold drink of your choice.

For all the seafood lovers out there, I am sure there are many. In Cheung Chau, there are many seafood restaurants with great views, making it the perfect opportunity to drink cold beer, enjoy a good meal, and take in the atmosphere around you.

Other things to do in Cheung Chau include fun in the sun at Tung Wan Beach, viewing hidden temples that appear at random, witnessing the Mini Great Wall, being genuinely mesmerised by extraordinary coastal views and checking out the best lookout points on the island that oversee Cheung Chau.

Best places to see at Cheung Chau

Mini Great Wall
Tung Wan Beach
Pak Tai Temple
Cheung Po Tsai Temple
North Lookout Pavilion

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A day trip to Cheung Chau Island.

Cross the border to Shenzhen City – China.

If you’re going on a Shenzhen day trip from Hong Kong, be sure to follow the steps for obtaining a China Visa with this helpful article. Otherwise, you could end up like me in a world of confusion, wasting valuable Shenzhen City time.

Eventually, everything went well in getting our Visas, and we crossed the border for our Shenzhen day trip. However, for a smoother path, you must catch the Hong Kong train to the Lok Ma Chau MTR, which is the main border gate with a Chinese Visa office to Mainland China.

Our day in Shenzhen was quite limited, but we appreciated the affordable cost of everything in the city, from fantastic dining prices to transportation by train around the city. It is that much cheaper than Hong Kong.

For your time in Shenzhen, consider visiting the Ping Am Financial Centre, the fourth tallest building in the World, and the magnificent Observatory Deck, which is 562-metres in height.

Other things to do in your Shenzhen trip include visiting the Splendid China Folk Village, Overseas Chinese Town, and Lianhuashan Park, among many other vibrant attractions.

Things to do in Shenzhen

The Window of the World (ice skate & Ski Resort)
China Folk Village
Ping An Financial Centre
Mai Po Marshes

Ping An Financial Centre in Shenzhen.

Stay Central and explore Hong Kong Island.

Sometimes, the best day trips during your holiday are those you don’t have to travel too far to reach, even closer, if you are staying on Hong Kong Island.

Most of your time on Hong Kong Island will be at Victoria Peak. In this famous tourist area, you can catch the Victoria Peak tram to the popular tourist destination and capture the best views over the stunning Victoria Harbour.

To continue your presence at Victoria Peak, you can go to the Peak Tower for shopping, dining, amusements, and an Observation Sky terrace with excellent 360-degree views of Hong Kong. You can also keep fit at the Peak with many walking trails to enjoy more outdoor fun in Hong Kong.

Away from the Peak, on Hong Kong Island, you can wander many luxurious shopping malls with top-class dining, enjoy horse racing at Happy Valley, and have a splashing fun day at Ocean World. You can walk along the Promenade to glimpse Tsim Sha Tsui on the other side of the Harbour and capture the dazzling Symphony of Lights show at 8 pm every evening.

After the light show, you may want to go to one of the rooftop bars in Hong Kong and enjoy a few drinks while taking in the sensational views over the city.

Things to do on Hong Kong Island

Victoria Peak
Happy Valley Racecourse
Ocean Park
Causeway Bay
Stanley Market
Golden Bauhinia Square

The Symphony of Lights show.

Enjoy the adventure and culture of Lantau Island.

Yes, Disneyland is on Lantau Island, but it’s not feasible to explore the other parts of Lantau Island and visit Mickey Mouse and friends at Disneyland on the same day.

Therefore, I recommend that you catch a train to the island a second time and check out the rest of the activities at Lantau.

The best way to continue your Hong Kong Tour on Lantau Island is to catch a train, MTR Tung Chung Station. This station is the home of Ngong Ping Cable Cars, where you can have an excellent cable ride over Lantau and witness more incredible Hong Kong views.

The best way to purchase the tickets for the cable cars is to buy through Klook; it means you’ll not have to stand in lines longer than necessary, as the wait to get on the cable cars can take a while.

Once you admire the views from the Cable Car and arrive on the other side at Ngong Ping Village, another world awaits you with a fascinating cultural Village where you can eat various local foods and purchase a few Ngong Ping souvenirs.

Once you are past the Village area, it’s time to check out the giant Tian Tan Buddha that caught your attention early during your time at Ngong Ping. The Tian Tan Buddha sits on top of 268 steps, and the views up top are quite incredible as you look over the Village and the Po Lin Monastery below.

Things to do on Lantau Island

Ngong Ping Cable Cars
Ngong Ping Village
Tian Tan Buddha
Lantau Trail (hiking)
Po Lin Monastery

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The Tian Tan Buddha is seen in Ngong Ping Village.

Hong Kong Disneyland Review for Families – The Happiest Place on Earth

Jun 11, 2019 | Feature, Hong Kong - Macau

The happiest place on earth may sound cliché, yet I can’t help but ponder that feeling when thinking back on my first visit to Disneyland worldwide. For this occasion, on a busy family trip to Hong Kong, the smile wouldn’t leave our faces anytime during a day trip to Disneyland Hong Kong.

Perhaps I have shown my cards a little early; my Hong Kong Disneyland Review will be a positive response. Primarily because I found the day to be everything I had hoped to be when taking my family of four to the famous theme park. It was a special day with the family, providing laughs, thrills, screams, excitement, and positive energy.

Let’s delve into the Hong Kong Disney Review and cover all the best bits of the famous amusement park. The review will include the best advice for purchasing tickets, the best bits inside Disneyland HK, and the entertainment factor that keeps the family on edge throughout the day and into the colourful evening.

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We are walking along Main Street in Disneyland Hong Kong.

An Overview of the Hong Kong Disneyland Review

Hong Kong Disneyland offers a magical escape in the heart of Asia, enchanting visitors with its blend of classic Disney charm and unique cultural elements. From iconic attractions like Sleeping Beauty Castle to thrilling rides such as Space Mountain, the park promises endless entertainment for all ages.

Impeccable service and attention to detail elevate the experience, while diverse dining options and souvenir shops cater to every taste. While some may find the park smaller than its counterparts, its compact size makes for a manageable and immersive adventure. Overall, Hong Kong Disneyland delivers an enchanting blend of fantasy and culture, ensuring memories that last a lifetime.

Purchasing Hong Kong Disneyland Tickets through Klook

In the lead-up to the trip to Hong Kong Disneyland, I researched the cheapest fares, and without a shadow of a doubt, Klook provided the cheapest Disneyland HK tickets. Whether you’re chasing a one-day or two-day pass to the happiest place on earth.

Purchasing Hong Kong Disneyland tickets through Klook is very convenient and easy, too. Once you have bought the tickets online, the tickets are added to your Klook smartphone App or email inbox; therefore, you scan the E-ticket at the gate upon entry.

If you have purchased a pass with meal vouchers included (highly recommended), once inside Disneyland, go to the very left of the entrance gates. Upon scanning your e-ticket, the meal voucher tickets will be presented to you. If you have any problems, the staff at Hong Kong Disneyland and the happy team will be able to assist you.

Purchase your Disney Hong Kong tickets at a discounted price through Klook!

Get ready for a fun day out in Hong Kong at Disneyland.

Spending the day at Hong Kong Disneyland

If you plan on spending only one day at Disney, make the most of it by squeezing in every possible minute and enjoying yourself fully as a family.

Arrive early at the opening time of 10 am, get yourself settled in quickly by grabbing a map and other information, and prepare yourself to stay at Disney HK until dark. When the sun goes down is the time the dazzling Disney lights come on, and further street parades are happening along Main Street.

Once you return to your hotel to end the exhaustive day, you’ll soon be asleep on your head, hitting the pillow. However, the time of your Hong Kong Disneyland trip will be more than worth it when you reflect on the positive memories from the eventful day at the happiest place on earth.

The train goes by at Hong Kong Disneyland.

The Best Way to Navigate the Hong Kong Disneyland Map

To navigate the Hong Kong Disney map and make the most of your precious time in a single day, where to start will not be simple, as you’ll soon see when entering through the Disney gates.

Upon getting through the chaotic action along Main Street, I started left at Adventureland and kept going around the park to different fabulous themes like Grizzly Gulch and Toy Story Land, continuing in a clockwise direction until I reached Tomorrow Land, which will lead you to Main Street.

Throughout the day, it’s essential to check the session times for the live shows that are happening at various times and plan your day accordingly around the fantastic performances.

Try and not to get lost when visiting Disneyland in Hong Kong.

The Main Highlight of Disneyland Hong Kong

Festival of the Lion King: Every time you visit a major attraction, amongst all the things you see and do, there is that one event that sticks out on top of the others. On this occasion, it was the spectacular Lion King performance that left the fondest of memories.

The Festival of the Lion King takes place in the Adventureland segment of Disneyland and is situated close by to the rear of Main Street. The show consists of everything that is included in the original movie. Yet, it’s a much-condensed version, with the performers acting, singing and dancing to the famous story throughout the impressive 30-minute performance.

If you’re anything like me, you won’t help but get stuck into the famous Lion King tunes such as; I Can’t Wait to Be King, The Circle of Life, Can You Feel the Love Tonight, and my ultimate favourite, Hakuna Matata.

Perhaps, The Festival of the Lion King was my favourite for sentimental reasons, the show brought back childhood memories, but it was much more than a trip back in time, the whole show had you entertained from start to finish, with a classic relived in front of your very eyes.

The Festival of the Lion King.

The Best Bits of a Day at Disney Hong Kong

Main Street: Disneyland’s Main Street is a dynamic and vibrant thoroughfare that serves as the perfect introduction to the park’s magic. This bustling street is a hive of activity, offering various entertainment options, from lively street parades featuring favourite Disney characters to enchanting retail shops brimming with charming souvenirs. Visitors can also indulge in delightful snacks and treats while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Main Street is the opportunity to meet beloved Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, creating unforgettable memories for guests of all ages. The street is always filled with an infectious sense of excitement and energy, with the lively ambience further enhanced by enthusiastic crowds. While waiting in line for a Starbucks coffee or a delicious treat is a common occurrence, the experience is always accompanied by a sense of joy and anticipation, adding to the overall enchantment of Main Street.

Main Street Disneyland.

Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars: My son’s mixture of excitement and fear was palpable as we embarked on the exhilarating Big Grizzly ride at Hong Kong Disneyland. This adrenaline-pumping experience took us on a wild journey, with heart-pounding loops, breathtaking forward speeds, and hair-raising backward twists that left us gasping for more.

Despite the anticipation in the line, the thrill of the ride was worth it as we unleashed a chorus of exhilarated screams, making it an unforgettable experience for both of us.

Going at speeds on the Grizzly Gulch ride.

“We Love Mickey” Projection Show: The enchanting “We Love Mickey” show is a mesmerizing nighttime spectacle that beautifully illuminates the sky. As the sun sets, the Disney event kicks off with a captivating projection show that bathes the buildings of Main Street in a dazzling array of animated effects, bringing beloved characters to life in a stunning display.

The culmination of the Projection Show is marked by Mickey and Minnie Mouse’s grand entrance, which makes a regal appearance on a lofty stage at the start of Main Street. As the crowd below erupts in cheers, Mickey and Minnie joyfully greet their fans with waves and blown kisses, creating a magical moment that lingers in the hearts of all who witness it.

“We Love Mickey” Projection Show.

Take Flight with Ironman: With two enthusiastic Marvel fans accompanying me, we eagerly embarked on the 4D Take Flight with Ironman ride, feeling like it was not merely an option but a mandatory experience. As we entered, we wore StarkVision Glasses before taking our seas. We entered ats and securely fastened ourselves for an exhilarating 10-minute adventure.

The ride took us on a thrilling journey to save the world, providing us with the sensation of being right alongside Iron Man as we battled to prevent mass destruction. The immersive experience captivated us, and it was a particularly enjoyable experience for the boys.

Mickey and the Wondrous Book: If you are passionate about Disney music, you’re in for a treat with the “Mickey and the Wondrous Book” performance. This captivating show includes a delightful selection of songs from beloved Disney movies such as Frozen, Tangled, The Little Mermaid, and other timeless classics.

During the 30-minute performance, you’ll have the opportunity to sing along to a variety of hit songs, creating an unforgettable and interactive experience for Disney fans of all ages.

Frozen Time with Mickey and the Wondrous Book.

Tarzan’s Treehouse: I am passionate about outdoor adventures, which is why I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of taking the Tarzan Raft across the water and discovering the intricacies of the Tarzan Treehouse in Disneyland HK. Upon disembarking from the raft, I found myself immersed in a world of exploration, navigating through various obstacles within the Treehouse.

As I ventured through this captivating structure, I was enveloped by the sounds of the jungle and marveled at the stunning scenery that Tarzan’s Treehouse had to offer. Additionally, I was treated to a breathtaking bird’ s-eye view of the surrounding area, further enhancing the magic of the experience.

A raft ride over to Tarzan’s Treehouse.

Fairy Tale Forest: As you venture through the enchanting garden forest, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of nature at its finest. Along the way, you’ll encounter various Disney themes, including Snow White, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and Tinkerbell.

Each themed area is lovingly designed to immerse you in the magic of these beloved stories, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Wandering through the Fairy Tale Magical Garden.

Hong Kong Disneyland Food Experience

Dining options are aplenty at Hong Kong Disneyland, with many different and fun restaurants located throughout the Theme Park. You can eat at the Starline Diner, enjoy the beautiful views at Riverside Café, or get Festive at the Clopins Festival of Foods, to mention only a few restaurants available.

Our meals were included in the package we bought through Klook, which covered lunch and dinner. The package also included a popcorn snack to take with us on our adventures in Hong Kong Disneyland.

Purchasing meal vouchers through Klook will save you plenty of money compared to buying the meals separately at Disneyland. The best thing about the meal vouchers is that they are valid at most restaurants inside the Theme Park.

Click here to Purchase your Disney Pass and Meal Vouchers through Klook!

Snacking on the run at Disneyland.

A Conclusion to the Hong Kong Disneyland Review

The Hong Kong Disneyland, often called “the happiest place on earth,” truly lived up to its reputation during our visit. We spent over ten hours exploring the gigantic theme park, immersing ourselves in the enchanting atmosphere and experiencing the thrilling rides and captivating shows.

Despite feeling a bit exhausted by the end of the day, we were filled with joy and left with cherished memories and plenty of smiles. I highly recommend checking out Klook for sensational Hong Kong Disneyland ticket prices for anyone planning a visit, as they often offer great deals and discounts. If you’re interested, you can also take a look at the gallery below for more pictures capturing the magic of our day at the park.

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Are you visiting The Happiest Place on Earth? Find a suitable Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel Package at Booking.com!