WORLD TOURISM

GREAT WALL OF CHINA

The Great Wall of China is a series of stone and earthen fortifications in northern China, built, rebuilt, and maintained between the 5th century BC and the 16th century to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire from Xiongnu attacks during various successive dynasties. Since the 5th century BC, several walls have been built that were referred to as the Great Wall. One of the most famous is the wall built between 220–206 BC by the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. Little of that wall remains; the majority of the existing wall were built during the Ming Dynasty.

The Great Wall stretches from Shanhaiguan in the east to Lop Nur in the west, along an arc that roughly delineates the southern edge of Inner Mongolia. The most comprehensive archaeological survey, using advanced technologies, has recently concluded that the entire Great Wall, with all of its branches, stretches for 8,851.8 km (5,500.3 mi). This is made up of 6,259.6 km (3,889.5 mi) of sections of actual wall, 359.7 km (223.5 mi) of trenches and 2,232.5 km (1,387.2 mi) of natural defensive barriers such as hills and rivers.

History

The Chinese were already familiar with the techniques of wall-building by the time of the Spring and Autumn Period, which began around the 8th century BC. During the Warring States Period from the 5th century BC to 221 BC, the states of Qi, Yan and Zhao all constructed extensive fortifications to defend their own borders. Built to withstand the attack of small arms such as swords and spears, these walls were made mostly by stamping earth and gravel between board frames. Qin Shi Huang conquered all opposing states and unified China in 221 BC, establishing the Qin Dynasty. Intending to impose centralized rule and prevent the resurgence of feudal lords, he ordered the destruction of the wall sections that divided his empire along the former state borders. To protect the empire against intrusions by the Xiongnu people from the north, he ordered the building of a new wall to connect the remaining fortifications along the empire's new northern frontier. Transporting the large quantity of materials required for construction was difficult, so builders always tried to use local resources. Stones from the mountains were used over mountain ranges, while rammed earth was used for construction in the plains. There are no surviving historical records indicating the exact length and course of the Qin Dynasty walls. Most of the ancient walls have eroded away over the centuries, and very few sections remain today. Later, the Han, Sui, Northern and Jin dynasties all repaired, rebuilt, or expanded sections of the Great Wall at great cost to defend themselves against northern invaders.

The Great Wall concept was revived again during the Ming Dynasty following the Ming army's defeat by the Oirats in the Battle of Tumu in 1449. The Ming had failed to gain a clear upper-hand over the Manchurian and Mongolian tribes after successive battles, and the long-drawn conflict was taking a toll on the empire. The Ming adopted a new strategy to keep the nomadic tribes out by constructing walls along the northern border of China. Acknowledging the Mongol control established in the Ordos Desert, the wall followed the desert's southern edge instead of incorporating the bend of the Huang He.


Photograph of the Great Wall in 1907Unlike the earlier Qin fortifications, the Ming construction was stronger and more elaborate due to the use of bricks and stone instead of rammed earth. As Mongol raids continued periodically over the years, the Ming devoted considerable resources to repair and reinforce the walls. Sections near the Ming capital of Beijing were especially strong.

During the 1440s–1460s, the Ming also built a so-called "Liaodong Wall". Similar in function to the Great Wall (whose extension, in a sense, it was), but more basic in construction, the Liaodong Wall enclosed the agricultural heartland of the Liaodong province, protecting it against potential incursions by Jurched-Mongol Oriyanghan from the northwest and the Jianzhou Jurchens from the north. While stones and tiles were used in some parts of the Liaodong Wall, most of it was in fact simply an earth dike with moats on both sides.

Towards the end of the Ming Dynasty, the Great Wall helped defend the empire against the Manchu invasions that began around 1600. Under the military command of Yuan Chonghuan, the Ming army held off the Manchus at the heavily fortified Shanhaiguan pass, preventing the Manchus from entering the Chinese heartland. The Manchus were finally able to cross the Great Wall in 1644, when the gates at Shanhaiguan were opened by Wu Sangui, a Ming border general who disliked the activities of rulers of the Shun Dynasty. The Manchus quickly seized Beijing, and defeated the newly founded Shun Dynasty and remaining Ming resistance, to establish the Qing Dynasty.

In 2009, an additional 290 kilometres (180 miles) of previously undetected portions of the wall, built during the Ming Dynasty, were discovered. The newly discovered sections range from the Hushan mountains in the northern Liaoning province to Jiayuguan in western Gansu province. The sections had been submerged over time by sandstorms that moved across the arid region.

Under Qing rule, China's borders extended beyond the walls and Mongolia was annexed into the empire, so construction and repairs on the Great Wall were discontinued.

Gallery

BALI INDONESIA


The Indonesian island of Bali is a favorite destination for both adventurers and those in need of a little relaxation. The waters off the coast of Bali's white beaches are an ideal spot for diving, while the dense jungles, teeming with monkeys and hidden stone temples, call out for exploration. Hike the rugged path to the summit of Mount Batur, and your effort will be rewarded with a stunning view. Then coax your sore muscles back into action with a massage at one of Bali's many luxury spas.

Traveler Advice on Bali

1,134 Hotels & Accommodations
* Top-Rated Hotels
* Komaneka at Tanggayuda
* The Samaya Bali
* Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa
* Alam Shanti
* Tegal Sari
* Legian Bali
* The Laguna Resort & Spa
* Maya Ubud Resort & Spa
* Poinciana Resort

Other Destinations
Popular Bali Destinations
* Denpasar Hotels
* Kuta Hotels
* Ubud Hotels

Zen Bali Dive Resort is a boutique hotel in the serene and natural environment of unspoilt North Bali and over looking the Sea of Bali at Puri Jati. The 15 Ocean view sunset and sunrise villas are surround by vineyards and rice terraces and located just 300 meters from the beach.
The resort is also in the perfect place for scuba diving, with Bali's famous macro diving hotspot PJ and Menjangen National Marine Park, just a short ride away. All scuba diving trips can be arranged from the resort to ensure that you make the most of Bali's best dive sites.

GENTING HIGHLAND



BUSINESS ACTIVITIES

Genting Malaysia Berhad* ("Genting Malaysia") was incorporated under the Companies Act, 1965, Malaysia as a private company limited by shares under the name of Resorts World Sdn Bhd on 7 May 1980 in Malaysia. Genting Malaysia’s company registration number is 58019-U. It changed its name to Resorts World Bhd upon its conversion into a public company on 14 July 1989.

On 30 August 1989, Genting Berhad and Genting Malaysia underwent a restructuring exercise, which resulted in Genting Malaysia's acquiring from Genting Berhad its entire gaming, hotel and resort-related operations inclusive of goodwill and other relevant assets. The shares of Genting Malaysia have been listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia since 22 December 1989.

Genting Malaysia is principally involved in the leisure and hospitality business and its activities cover theme parks, gaming, hotels, seaside resorts and entertainment. The jewel of its crown is Genting Highlands Resort, a premier integrated family leisure and entertainment resort at the peak of Genting Highlands that attracted 19.6 million visitors in 2007.

Known as Resorts World Genting, the resort offers six hotels with 10,000 rooms, over 50 fun rides, 170 dining and shopping outlets, mega shows, business convention facilities and endless entertainment - all at one location.

The six hotels at Genting Highlands Resort are Genting Hotel, Highlands Hotel, Theme Park Hotel, Resort Hotel, Awana Genting Highlands, Golf & Country Resort and First World Hotel – the world’s largest hotel with 6,118 rooms as acknowledged by the Guinness World Records and Ripley's Believe It or Not.

Genting Highlands Resort was voted the World's Leading Casino Resort (2005, 2007 and 2008) and Asia's Leading Casino Resort from 2005 to 2008 by World Travel Awards.

Apart from the highland resort, Genting Malaysia owns and operates two beautiful seaside properties called Awana Kijal Golf, Beach & Spa Resort in Terengganu (on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia) and Awana Porto Malai in Langkawi (off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia).

In 1998, Genting Malaysia undertook an equity investment in Star Cruises Limited, the leading cruise operator in the Asia Pacific. Genting Malaysia currently owns about 19.3% of Star Cruises.

Genting Malaysia's registered office is located at 24th Floor, Wisma Genting, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

First World Hotel Genting Highlands Info

With 6118 rooms on offer, the First World Hotel is the largest hotel in the world by room counts. First World Hotel is adjoined to the First World Plaza, which boasts 500,000 sq feet of indoor theme park, shopping centre and food galore. First World remains one of the favourite hotel among holiday makers in Genting Highlands. Its grand concept of all things under one roof is the main catalyst of its attraction among visitors and when you check into a Superior Deluxe or World Club room in the new tower, you’ll encounter exclusively designed spaces enhanced by all the comforts you may need. After all, no expense should be spared for a little extra luxury.

Cineplex

Fitness Centre

International Showroom

Louge

Outdoor Theme Park - Spinner

Grand Ballroom

World Club Room

Universal Walk

Superior Deluxe Room

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Genting Highlands — pronounced ghen-ting with a hard "G" — is in Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia.

Understand

Scale model of Genting HighlandsA self-proclaimed City of Entertainment, Genting is Malaysia's low-budget, family-friendly, sanitized attempt at Las Vegas. The primary draw is that Genting is the only place where you can gamble legally in Malaysia, but there's also a theme park to keep the kids amused. As a plus, being located up in the highlands means it's cooler than the steamy lowlands.

Orientation

Orienting yourself in Genting is simultaneously easy and difficult. There are no "streets" of any kind; instead, all the (gigantic) buildings are connected with a vast warren of linkways, underground tunnels and escalators, all filled with enough signage to stop you from getting lost. Figuring out the fastest route from A to B is not always easy though, because the signage is designed to lead you into the hotels and their casinos!

Climate

Located at an altitude of 1800 meters, temperatures in Genting are a good 5-10°C lower than in Kuala Lumpur, generally staying in the 15-25°C range. On a clear day, there are stunning views down into the valley — but when it's raining in KL, Genting is swathed in rolling clouds and visibility drops to zero. Thanks to the walkway system, you almost never need to venture outside, but hotel rooms are unheated and can get chilly at night.


GET IN
By plane

The nearest airport is in Kuala Lumpur. Skybus [1] used to run direct buses, but seems to have stopped; the fastest way is thus to KL Sentral by train (28 min) and then connecting to the bus from there. Alternatively, if you're feeling flush after hitting a jackpot in the casino, Sabah Air (tel. +60-3-62578604) will be happy to charter a helicopter for you (30 min).

By bus

Genting Skyway on a misty dayThere are frequent buses from various points in Kuala Lumpur, including the Puduraya bus terminal (every 30 min) and KL Sentral train station (hourly). There are also buses from Pekeliling Bus Station to Genting Highlands (every 30 minutes). Booking in advance is advisable as services can sell out, especially on weekends.

All buses take around one hour and cost RM8.30-8.50 one way, with most terminating at the Skyway cable car station, from where it's an 11-minute ride up to Genting (included in bus ticket price). Buses departing after 8 PM head directly to the resort.

Transtar [2] operates one daily superluxury "Solitaire" bus direct from Singapore (S$87/77 one-way from/to Singapore). Other companies running direct buses include Five Star Tours, Grassland, Konsortium and Easibook.

By car

Genting Highlands is 40 minutes from Kuala Lumpur on the Karak Highway.

GET AROUND

All hotels in Genting (except Awana) are connected by sheltered walkways and escalators, so you never actually need to go outside. The entire complex is, theoretically, wheelchair accessible.
See & Do
Casinos

Let's face it: if you aren't into theme park rides, the only thing to do in Genting is gamble. There are two casinos open to the general public, both of which are open 24 hours and are limited to non-Muslims over 21. (Non-Malaysian Muslims are welcome.) Table games of choice are roulette, baccarat and Chinese games such as tai sai and pai gow, with poker barely registering. There are also countless slot machines, but many if most require signing up with Genting's WorldCard [3] system if you want to withdraw any winnings.

A notional but widely ignored dress code applies, prohibiting T-shirts, shorts and sandals, and while there are theoretical non-smoking zones here and there, all casinos are wreathed in dense smoke. One final difference to Vegas: not only are there no cocktail waitresses, but you can't even buy a drink inside.

Casino de Genting, Genting Hotel, [4]. Located in the and connected by walkway to the neighboring Monte Carlo Casino, this is easily the largest of the casinos and you'll probably find your vice of choice in here somewhere — they even have a few video poker machines. Visitors with foreign passports are allowed to enter the "International Room" VIP zone if they agree to sign up to WorldCard.
StarWorld, First World Hotel, [5]. A smaller-size replica of the Casino de Genting.

Other

Genting Theme ParkArena of Stars, [6]. Hosts concerts and shows most weekends, but most feature B-grade Chinese pop stars or Western artists well past their prime.
Genting Theme Park, [7]. Features the first 'flying' roller coaster in Asia, which simulates the experience of flying as you duck and swoop in the air while lying down.

Buy
First World Plaza, in First World Hotel, [8]. Malaysia's self-proclaimed highest shopping mall, this is an ungainly mix of indoor theme park and low-rent shopping mall with replicas of random landmarks from around the world, all covered with a giant metal roof that makes the entire place seem dark and dingy.

Eat
Food in Genting is generally overpriced and mediocre. Local, Western and fast food are available, but prices are often twice or more what the same meal would cost in Kuala Lumpur. Most restaurants are halal to cater for the large number of Muslim visitors.

Budget
There are a number of fast food chains like McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, and Marybrown. Try Marybrown's Nasi Lemak meal as breakfast: one piece of chicken, a hot tea/coffee, and other Nasi Lemak condiments for RM ~10.

Penang Food Village, (Theme Park Hotel). would be unremarkable anywhere else in Malaysia, but in Genting it's a notch above the competition: prices are reasonable (most remain under RM10), there are no crowds or clouds of smoke, and the food is tasty. Try the lor mee (noodles in black gravy). The spicy prawn noodle soup and the Penang Fried Kway Teow are not to be missed.

Mid-range
There are some decent Chinese restaurants like the Causeway Bay (FW Plaza Second floor) and Shanghai 10 (FW Plaza Main Atrium). They serve good food and a meal for 3 (One main course, side dish and a drink per pax) should not cost you more than RM60.

Coffee Terrace, Genting Hotel. Newly renovated restaurant with an international buffet in plush settings, with many chefs cooking on-the-spot upon your orders. Recommendations include Penang Fried Kway Teow, Chicken Rice, Indian Naan, Japanese Sashimi (really fresh!) and Medium-well beef steak. Depending on different timings, the prices differ, ranging from RM40 to RM60 per person.

Splurge
The Olive, (Genting Hotel). Genting's signature award-winning restaurant, located in the hotel lobby, attractively done in a very modern style. Very expensive, but if you're going to splurge, you might as well go whole hog and try the Wagyu steak, flown in directly from Japan.

Drink
Nightlife in Genting is very limited. There are four (4) bars of any description in the entire complex, three of them (Safari, Cloud 9, Sportsbook) in the lower level of the Genting Hotel and one (Patio) on the second floor of the First World Hotel. Expect to pay north of RM20 for a single drink.

Safari, Genting Hotel (lower level). Tropical jungle theme, spinning R&B.
Cloud 9, Genting Hotel (lower level). A more relaxing lounge.
There are several cafes around such as Starbucks Coffee and Coffee Beans & Tea Leaf available in the First World Hotel.

Sleep

With 10,000 rooms to choose from, there are usually plenty of beds at Genting. On weekdays in the off-season, rooms can be very cheap indeed (under RM 20), but demand is highly seasonal and the hotels fill up fast in November and December. Note that all rooms are unheated and can thus get chilly at night!

All hotels are run by Genting and share the same reservations center, reachable online or by phone.

First World Hotel: Catering towards the masses and the budget conscious, this three-star monolith with gaudy exterior paint is (by some measures) the biggest hotel in the entire world, with 6,118 rooms in two towers. And you aren't likely to forget it: check-in queues often stretch over an hour, room numbers have five digits and the enormous First World Cafe's breakfast buffet has all the charm of a reform school cafeteria. Standard/deluxe rooms are spartan but clean. The main selling point is the price: while rack rate is RM240, advance booking weekday promotions go for as little as RM20.



Genting Hotel: One of the earliest to open in the Highlands, this 5-star hotel offers a wide range of entertainment and recreational facilities such as heated indoor swimming pool, 10 restaurants (including the award-winning, The Olive), and a large karaoke center. Rates from RM235 nett (low season).

Highlands Hotel: This 5-star hotel is supposed to be furnished as a Scottish castle with dark oak panels and low lighting. 932 rooms, open to invited high rollers and Genting WorldCard Silver and above only.

Resort Hotel: The Resort is a four-star hotel adjacent to the Genting Hotel with its own section of the Casino and three F&B outlets. Standard low season rates from RM160 nett.

Theme Park Hotel: A French-themed castle-village-hotel notionally modeled on the 16th-century village of Colmar in Alsace, France, complete with drawbridge. It ranks as a 3 star hotel, with affordable yet comfy rooms.

NIAH NATIONAL PARK


Located on the Sungai (river) Niah, about 3 km from the small town of Batu Niah, a 110 km to the south-west of Miri in northern Sarawak. The park was first gazetted as a National Historic Monument in 1958, gazetted as National Park on 23 November 1974 and was published to the public on 1 January 1975. The Park is one of Sarawak's smaller national parks, but it is certainly one of the most important and has some of the most unusual visitor attractions. The park's main claim to fame is its role as one of the birthplaces of civilisation in the region. The oldest modern human remains discovered in Southeast Asia were found at Niah, making the park one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.

Forty thousand years ago, the Niah Great Cave sheltered human life. Here lies the oldest human remains in Southeast Asia, along with many other relics of prehistoric man. Today the Cave is home only to bats, swiftlets and other specially adapted forms of life. However, a few locals still venture into the dark interior to collect guano (bird and bat droppings used as fertilizer) and bird's nest.

The famous Painted Cave is another highlight of the visit to Niah Cave. Here, little human-like figures drawn in red haematite watch over a gravesite where the bodies of the dead were each laid in its own boat-shaped coffin. The Great Cave and Painted Cave have been declared as National Historical Monuments.

The Caves are accessible via a raised plankwalk that winds through lowland forest vibrant with birds and butterflies. Apart from the Caves, visitors can explore several kilometres of forest trails to feel the richness of tropical rainforests, climb a 400m tall limestone ridge or visit an Iban longhouse located near the Park boundary. Visitors can also rent a boat or walk along the river from Park headquarters to Batu Niah town.

Early Human Settlements

Niah's important was first realised in 1957. The curator of the Sarawak Museum, Tom harrison, led an archeological dig at the West Mouth of the Great Cave. The exavations revealed plenty of human settlements in the area; tools, cooking utensils and and ornaments, made of bone, stone or clay. The types of items found suggested a long period of settlement reaching back into the palaeolithic era (the earlist part of the stone age).

In 1958, a discovery was made which confirmed Niah's place as a site of major archaeological significance. Harrisson and his team unearthed a skull which was estimated to be 40,000 years old. The find was at first rediculed by the scientific community, for it was the skull of a modern human (homo sapiens), and it was widely believed that Borneo was settled much later. However, as dating techniques improved and as more evidence of the settlement of Southeast Asia and Australasia came to light, Harrissson was proved right.

What is most interesting about Niah, however is the continued human presence over tens of thousands of years and sophistication of societies that gradually developed there. A large burial site further into the mouth of the cave had clearly been used from palaeolithic times right up to the modern era, as late as 1400 Ad. The earlist graves found in the deepest levels, were simple shallow graves without adornment. Yet moving up through the layer, coffins and urns appeared along with grave goods such as pottery, textiles and ornaments and even glass and metal items, which came comparatively late to Borneo.

The Great cave is not only important archaeological site. The painted Cave as its name suggests, houses detailed wall-paintings depicting the boat journey of the dead into the afterlife. The meaning of the paintings was explained by the discovery of a number of "deadth-ships" on the cave floor-boat shaped coffins containing the remains of the deceased and a selection of grave-goods considered useful in the afterlife, such as Chinese ceramics, ornaments and glass beads. The death-ships have been dated as ranging between 1 AD and 780 AD, although local Penan folklore tells of the use of dead-ship burials as late as the 19th century.

Interesting sites to Visit

The Great Cave

The Great Cave is approximately 3 km from the Park Office and is easily reached via the plakwalk which is enclosed on both sides by dense primary rainforest. The stroll along the planwalk is fascinating in its own right, as you pass close to giant tapang trees (Koompassia excelsa (Becc) Taub.) with their enormous buttressed roots, padanus plants twice the size of a person and colourful exquisitely formed orchids and tree fungi.

It is worth taking your time and walking quietly along the way, as you may well see some of the park's wildlife. Colourful birds, squirrels, lizards, butterflies and all maner of unsual insects and invertebrates are commonly seen. If you are lucky, you may see monkeys, flying lizards and the ocasional hornbill.

The first significant rock formation you reach is the Trader's Cave, which is really an extended rock overhang rather than a cave proper. This is where the birds nest and quano traders conduct their business, hence the name.

A few minutes later, the West Mouth of the Great Cave comes into view and you are left in no doubt that this cave deserves its name. At over 60m high and 250m wide, it is one of the world's most spectacular cave entrance leading to an even larger chamber within. On the left of the cave mouth the archaeological excavation are clearly visible. Photographer should come prepared as the view from the cave mouth out over the surounding jungle is quite unique and the jagged stalacites, overhang and dangling creepers of the cave mouth make a dramatic frame for a very memorable photo.

Proceeding into the cave, the sound of disembodied voices mingles with the squeaking of million of bats and swiftlets to create an eerie atmosphere. The voices belong to the guano (bird and bat excrement) covering the cave floor. The guano is then carried in sacks to the Sungai Niah, where it is graded and sold as fertiliser.

The Large Chamber (Padang)

The passage at the back of the Great cave leads to the large chamber known as 'Padang' where shafts of sunlight stream down from the large holes in the cave roof to illuminate the bizzarre rock formations in the Burnt Cave. This ia another excellent spot for taking photos. After the Padang, the cave passage becomes pitch black and it is here that you will need the flashlight, not only to find your way along the plankwalk but to view the extraordinary shapes and weathering effects found in the Moon Cave.

The Painted Cave

Shortly after the moon Cave, the plankwalk emerges into daylight and a short pathway through the forest leads to the Painted Cave. This is the site of the famous Niah cave paintings and the place where the 'death-ship' were found. The contents of the death-ships have since been transferred to the Sarawak Museum, but the wall behind the fenced-off burial site.

The paintings can be difficult to see unless you allow your eyes to become accustomed to the light. They are rendered in red hematite and cover a long narrow strip (approximately 30m) at the back of the wall. They potray spread-eagled human figures, probably representing warriors and hunters, some of the animals of the souls of the deceased on the dangerous journey to the land of the dead.

Although the burial site at the painted cave is far more recent than those at the Great Cave, it is no less important as it offers a clear insight into the develoment of the traditional religions of Borneo. It is worth spending some time at the Painted cave, as the atmosphere of the place is very tranquil and relaxing resting place for their ancestors.

Birds Nest

The guanocollectors are not the only people who earn a living from the cave. Strategically positioned bamboo poles and leaders are evidence of the birds nest collectors, local people who have practised this dangerous occupation for generations. The half million swiftlets that live in the cave make their nests purly from their own salivary secretions and when the nests are cleaned and cooked they produce the famous birds nest soup, which is as highly regarded in Chinese cuisine as caviar is in the West.

Wildlife And The Rainforest

If you leave the Great cave and return along the plankwalk around clouds intermingling. This is the nighty 'changing of the guard' half a million swiftlets are returning to their nests, whilst half a million bats fly out to forage in the forest. although this is one of Niah's most spectalucar sight, it represents only small niches in a complex ecosystem. One of Niah's other notable sights is the unsual number of luminous fungi (which can be clearly seen from the plankwalk at night).

Treks And Trails

The Park has two-marked walking trails, Jalan Bukit Kasut and Jalan Madu.

Jalan Bukit Kasut

This trail (green and white markings) leads to the summit of Bukit Kasut. The 45 minutes walk passes through beautiful primary rainforest before moving into Kerangas forest at the foot of the hill. You will also see some fascinating cliff vegetation clinging tenuously to life in the steep lomestone slopes. The trail is a little steep but the view at the top is worth it, offering a sweeping panarama of the rainforest canopy.

Jalan Madu

This trail (red and white markings) sticks quite close to the banks of the Sungai Subis, a tributary of the Sungai Niah. It takes roughly an hour and passes through both alluvial and peat swamp forest. There are plenty of wild orchids, bizarre mushrooms and giant pandanus plants along the side of the trail.

How to get there?
The Park Headquarters at Pengkalan Batu is accessible either from Miri or Bintulu (109km or 2 hours by road from Miri and 131km or 3 hours from Bintulu).

From Miri

Syarikat Bas Suria (tel: (6) 085-434317/412173) has a regular bus service to batu Niah from Miri Bus Station. The journey 1 hr 40 mins to 2 hrs. Share taxis from the Bus Station are available as there are regular taxis, which can usually be chartered on a daily basis. self-drive cars are also available (ask at your counter or check in the yellow pages).


From Bintulu

Syarikat Bas Suria (Tel: (6) 086-335489) has a regular bus service to Batu Niah from Bintulu Bus Station. The journey time is about 2 hr to 3 hrs drived. Share taxis from the Bus Station are available as there are regular taxis, which can usually be chartered on a daily basis. self-drive cars are also available (ask at your counter or check in the yellow pages).

From Batu Niah to the Park Office

The Park office ia about 3km from Batu Niah town. Chartered taxis and tour buses will take you straight there but if you arrive by bus or share taxi, you have three choices.

1.A motorised longboat from Batu Niah town to the Park Office brings you through delighful jungle scenery.

2.A taxi from Batu Niah town is not so interesting but a good idea if it is raining.

3.If you are not too heavily burdened with luggage, the park Office is a pleasant 45 minute stroll along the river bank.

Accommodation & Other Charges


Accommodation facilities consist of chalets units, a rest house and hostel-style rooms, all with electriciy and piped water. Unlike some of the other parks there are no cooking facilities.

SUTERA HARBOUR (THE PACIFIC SUTERA)

Thoughtfully designed and tastefully furnished, The Pacific Sutera features 500 immaculately appointed rooms and suites to offer the ultimate in comfort and luxury as the preferred business accommodation.


This is carried through to the design of the hotel with its grand entrance and high-ceiling lobby lounge complete with a panoramic view of the ocean. The hotel’s perfectly manicured gardens provide a sense of unending tranquillity and relaxation for the weary traveller.


Accommodation

This incomparable property has 500 beautifully appointed, spacious guest rooms and suites, each with an inviting atmosphere; contemporary décor and dramatic views with modern comforts and an impressive list of amenities.

All rooms and suites offer breathtaking view of either the lush golf course of the vast South China Sea. These immaculately appointed rooms exude comfort and luxury with a subtle touch of elegance.

The Pacific Sutera has 500 beautifully appointed, spacious guest rooms and suites, each with an inviting atmosphere; contemporary décor and dramatic views with modern comforts and an impressive list of amenities.

• Deluxe Golf View
• Deluxe Sea View
• Pacific Club Golf View
• Pacific Club Sea View
• Junior Suite
• Executive Suite
• Deluxe Suite
• Presidential Suite



Dining

Restaurants
Delight your palate with exotic and exciting flavours from any 5 of our superb food and beverage outlets.


Lounges & Bars
Unwind at any one of our lounges, bars and fun pub, which offer a blend of quality wines, exotic cocktails, fine cuisine and soothing music.



Spa

Pampering, relaxation and wellness of body are some of the things we like our guest to leave us with and who better to provide those gifts than Mandara Spa. With one outlet each at The Pacific Sutera with a menu tailored to the busy individual, and The Magellan Sutera with a laid-back pace and relaxation in mind, you’ll be spoiled for choice

Langkawi Malaysia

Once a sanctuary for pirates, only the locals knew the delights of Langkawi until it was made a duty-free port in 1987. Since then, the construction of modern amenities has created an idyllic Malaysian getaway. Its natural beauty and intriguing folklore make a visit here one to remember.

Situated off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Pulau Langkawi is the largest among an archipelago of 99 islands collectively known as Langkawi. With a resident population of only 54,000, the economy is driven mainly by tourism. The most comfortable way to reach this exquisite spot is by air from Kuala Lumpur or Penang. The Langkawi International Airport is situated 20 kilometres from Kuah , the main town. Although public transport is limited, touring is not a problem. To best appreciate Langkawi, a bicycle or motorcycle would be an ideal choice.

Kuah If you choose not to fly, a ferry ride from either Kuala Kedah (51 kilometres) or Kuala Perlis (30 kilometres) on the mainland will bring you to Kuah. Here you can find hotels and restaurants to suit all pockets, banks and tour agencies, car and bike rentals and the story behind the town's name.

A stone's throw from the jetty lies Dataran Lang , or Eagle Square, with a statue of the island's symbolic eagle. Lang is an abbreviation of the old Malay word for eagle—helang. Kawi is the eagle's distinctive colour. Adjacent to the square is Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman —(Langkawi Legends in the Park). The garden, adorned with sculptures, will give you an insight into the tales of this legendary island.

Kuah is also shopping hub with numerous duty-free outlets. Visitors need only stay 48 hours in order to purchase at duty-free prices and the temptation to spend will be hard to resist. A popular place to start your spree is Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall featuring more than 100 outlets. Other shopping outlets worth visiting include Langkawi Duty Free , Jetty Point Complex and Teow Soon Huat Supermarket & Departmental Store . Souvenirs, sports attire, audio-visual items, electrical goods, perfume and liquor are among the bargains to be had.

Folklore And Fables Due west about 12 kilometres from Kuah is Kampong Mawat , the location of Mahsuri's Mausoleum . Legend has it that Mahsuri, a local village maiden, made a curse some 300 years ago to impoverish Langkawi for seven generations. To this day, Mahsuri is a celebrated figure despite the curse, which appears to have at last ended.

Lying to the north-east is Padang Matsirat , or Field of Burnt Rice. Once the island's granary, the village head ordered it destroyed during the Siamese invasion of 1821. It is said that remnants of burnt rice can still be found after a downpour and that these are a potent medical treatment. This is also the location of the airport and the The Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre , where the biennial Langkawi Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) is held.

Further north-west are the 'seven wells'— Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls . Situated on the slopes of Gunung Mat Cincang , water, which streams down the mountain through seven natural pools, forms a series of cascading waterfalls. Reaching the highest requires some serious jungle trekking but the lowest is easily accessible via concrete steps. This is an ideal site for a picnic, and both the mountain and the wells have legends. Gunung Mat Cincang is believed to be a quarrelsome giant and the Seven Wells a favorite bathing place for the mountain fairies. Locals will tell you that a sweet aroma fills the air when the fairies are present.

Datai is to the east and home to Langkawi Crocodile Farm with more than 1,000 alligators on display. A few kilometres away lies Air Hangat Village , or Hot Water Village. This hot springs village is said to be a result of a disagreement between Mat Cinang (our quarrelsome giant) and Mat Raya over the marriage of their children. During the argument a cauldron of boiling water landed on the site of Air Hangat, while the pot of gravy was spilt at Kuah. A cultural centre at Air Hangat showcases batik painting, wood carving and traditional games.

Sweat It Out At The Beach Lush greenery and pristine beaches abound. Pantai Cenang on the western coastline is the liveliest of these, offering all sorts of water sports and the modern Underwater World Langkawi , which showcases 5,000 fish and marine creatures. This is also where most of the international hotels are located.

Much quieter, Pantai Tengah is a short distance to the south. It offers two idyllic beaches in Burau Bay and Pantai Kok . Further up at the north-western end is The Datai Langkawi , where an 18-hole golf course beckons. On the north coast, the Beach of Black Sand and the Beach of Skulls are worth visiting. Although they are not suitable for water activities, each has its own story, as suggested by its name.

About 20 kilometres from Kuah, Pantai Tanjung Rhu is another favourite spot for adventurers. Popularly known as Casuarina Beach, it is rich in coral and marine life although the casuarina trees that once filled the area have long gone.

Hop Around The Islands If beaches are not your style, try island hopping. Favourites are Pulau Payar, Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Singa Besar and Pulau Rebak. Pulau Payar , along with Pulau Kaca, Pulau Segantan, and Pulau Lembu, is known for its beautiful coral gardens and has been rightfully gazetted as a marine park. Even if you are not an ardent scuba diver, a 45-minute boat trip to this gorgeous island is highly recommended.

Pulau Dayang Bunting , the second largest island, is ideal for snorkelling. It also offers two interesting spots— Lake of the Pregnant Maiden and Gua Langsiar , or Banshee Cave—with legends to be unravelled. Pulau Singa Besar is an animal sanctuary with deer, peacocks, horses, and macaques. Pulau Rebak , on the other hand, has a privately developed luxurious resort, Rebak Marina , equipped with all modern facilities.

Mabul - Sweet Little Sister

Mabul Island has historically played a supporting role its famous neighbour in Sabah, Sipadan Island. Since Mabul is considerably larger, and Pulau Sipadan is now protected from overnight stays, its profile has greatly increased and resort owners have been able to construct a much higher standard of accommodation, albeit within the constraints of a remote getaway.

The island is covered in palm trees and fringed with fine beaches. Villagers live next door to the resorts and guests are free to stroll around the island, mingling with the locals. From Mabul Island, guests are taken the 25 to 30 minutes to Sipadan every day for diving. In addition they can dive the macro-world of Mabul, normally once a day.

The rest of this page contains information about:

How to Get There
Flight - Boat Transfer
The recommended flight in Sabah from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau leaves at 6:15 hrs and arrives at 6:55 hrs, with Malaysia Airlines (www.MalaysiaAirlines.com). This is the flight most resorts favour and guests will be collected here and driven for around one hour to Semporna, where the resort boat will transfer you the 45 minutes to Mabul Island.

Later flights are available but can cause problems with transfers and will almost certainly mean no diving on the first day. Air Asia (www.AirAsia.com) is free-seating and Malaysia Airlines is not. Both have emergency exit seats with acres of leg-room. For Air Asia you need to be at the front of the queue to secure one of these. For Malaysia Airlines ask for 14A or 14F, and spend the flight stretching your legs to the annoyance of your jealous neighbours.

There are direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau with Air Asia (07:20-10:05 hrs and 17:20-20:05 hrs) and Malaysia Airlines (12.40-15.30), but these will probably mean an overnight in Tawau and pick up from your hotel at 6:15 hrs.

Due to the dangers of flying after diving, some Mabul resorts may require you to sign a waiver. This is because some guests want to squeeze in as many dives as possible regardless of the risks. Guests who will be flying within 24 hours after departure from the resorts may be subject to diving restrictions on the last day.

Flights back from Tawau are Malaysia Airlines to Kota Kinabalu (16:10-16:55 hrs) or to Sandakan (17:30-18:10 hrs). If you do not wish to stay overnight in Kota Kinabalu, you can fly direct to Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines (19:05-21:45 hrs) and Air Asia (20:00-22:45 hrs).

The name of Sipadan is simply legendary in diving circles, conjuring images of patrolling hammerhead sharks, millions of technicolored reef fish and, above all, dozens of sea turtles swimming peacefully everywhere.

This description is not far from reality: it might even actually be down played a little as Sipadan is considered one of the five top diving destinations in the world. This small rainforest-covered tropical island rising from a 700 meter abyss in the Celebes Sea is a destination the committed diver cannot miss.

Pulau Sipadan Resort & Tours Sdn Bhd is one of the dive operators that are allowed to bring divers to Sipadan Island. Specialize in dive and nature tour packages to 3 notably top dive and nature resorts in Borneo; Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort, Lankayan Island Dive Resort and Sepilok Nature Resort as well as to other Sabah’s wildlife destinations, we provide an ideal combination of the perfect Borneo holiday for those who seek fun and adventures on a tranquil settings.

MOUNT KINABALU

Mount Kinabalu (Malay: Gunung Kinabalu) is a prominent mountain in Southeast Asia. It is located in Kinabalu National Park (a World Heritage Site) in the east Malaysian state of Sabah, which is on the island of Borneo in the tropics. It is the tallest mountain in the Malay Archipelago.

In 1997, a re-survey using satellite technology established its summit (known as Low’s Peak) height at 4,095 metres (13,435 ft) above sea level, which is some 6 metres (20 ft) less than the previously thought and hitherto published figure of 4,101 metres (13,455 ft).

The mountain and its surroundings are among the most important biological sites in the world, with over 600 species of ferns, 326 species of birds, and 100 mammalian species identified. Among them are the gigantic Rafflesia plants and the orangutan. Mount Kinabalu has been accorded UNESCO World Heritage status.

The main peak of the mountain (Low's Peak) can be climbed easily by a person with a good physical condition, and requires no mountaineering equipment. Other peaks along the massif, however, require rock climbing skills.


Biology

Significantly, Mount Kinabalu is well-known worldwide for its tremendous botanical and biological species biodiversity, with high levels of endemism (i.e. species which are found only within Kinabalu Park and are not found anywhere else in the world). As examples, it has one of the world’s richest orchid flora with over 800 species, over 600 species of ferns (more than the whole of Africa’s 500 species) of which 50 are found no where else, and is the richest place in the world for the Nepenthes insectivorous pitcher plants (five of the thirteen are found nowhere else on earth) which reach spectacular proportions (the largest in the world being the endemic Nepenthes rajah).

The parasitic Rafflesia plant, which has the largest single flower in the world, is also found in Kinabalu (particularly the Rafflesia keithii whose flower grows to 94 centimetres or 37 inches in diameter),though it should be noted that blooms of the flower are rare and difficult to find. A recent botanical survey of the mountain estimated a staggering 5,000 to 6,000 plant species (excluding mosses and liverworts but including ferns), which is more than all of Europe and North America (excluding tropical regions of Mexico) combined. It is therefore one of the world’s most important biological sites.

Its incredible biodiversity in plant life is due to a combination of several unique factors: its setting in one of the richest plant regions of the world (the tropical biogeographical region known as western Malesia which comprises the island of Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula, and the island of Borneo), the fact that the mountain covers a wide climatic range from near sea level to freezing ground conditions near the summit, the jagged terrain and diversity of rocks and soils, the high levels of rainfall (averaging about 2700 mm a year at park HQ), and the climatic instability caused by periods of glaciation and catastrophic droughts which result in evolution and speciation. This diversity is greatest in the lowland regions (consisting of lowland dipterocarp forests, so called because the tree family Dipterocarpaceae are dominant). However, most of Kinabalu’s endemic species are found in the mountain forests, particularly on ultramafic soils (i.e soils which are low in phosphates and high in iron and metals poisonous to many plants; this high toxic content gave rise to the development of distinctive plant species found nowhere else).

Endemic annelids number less than a dozen known species but include the Kinabalu giant red leech that preys on various earthworms, including the Kinabalu giant earthworm.

There are some 326 species of birds in Kinabalu Park (including the spectacular Rhinoceros Hornbill); and some 100 mammalian species, including one of the four great apes, the Orang Utan (though sightings of these are uncommon; estimates of its numbers in the park range from 25 to 120).

Geology

Mount Kinabalu is essentially a massive granodiorite which is intrusive into sedimentary and ultrabasic rocks, and forms the central part, or core, of the Kinabalu massive. The granodiorite is intrusive into strongly folded strata, probably of Eocene to Miocene age, and associated ultrabasic and basic igneous rocks. It was pushed up from the earth’s crust as molten rock millions of years ago. In geological terms, it is a very young mountain as the granodiorite cooled and hardened only about 10 million years ago. The present landform is considered to be a mid-Pliocene peneplain, arched and deeply dissected, through which the Kinabalu granodiorite body has risen in isostatic adjustment. It is still pushing up at the rate of 5 mm per annum. During the Pleistocene Period of about 100,000 years ago, the massive mountain was covered by huge sheets of ice and glaciers which flowed down its slopes, scouring its surface in the process and creating the 1800 m deep Low's Gully ( named after Hugh Low) on its North side. Its granite composition and the glacial formative processes are readily apparent when viewing its craggy rocky peaks.


Climbing route

Climbers must be accompanied by accredited guides at all times. There are two main starting points for the climb: the Timpohon Gate (near the national park headquarters, at about Template:Unit), and the Mesilau Nature Resort. The latter starting point is slightly higher in elevation, but crosses a ridge, adding about two kilometres to the ascent and making the total elevation gain slightly higher. The two trails meet about two kilometres below Laban Rata.

Accommodation is available inside the park or outside near the headquarters. From there, climbers proceed to the Timpohon gate at 1866 m (6,122 ft), either by minibus or by walking, and then walk to the Laban Rata Resthouse at 3,270 m (10,728 ft). Most people accomplish this part of the climb in 3 to 6 hours. Since there are no roads, the supplies for the Laban Rata Resthouse are carried by porters, who bring up to 30 kilograms of supplies on their backs. Hot food and beverages, hot showers and heated rooms are available at Laban Rata. The last 2 km (2600 ft), from the Laban Rata Resthouse at 3,270 m to Low's Peak (summit) at 4,095.2 m, takes between 2 and 4 hours. The last part of the climb is on naked granite rock.

Given the high altitude, some people may suffer from altitude sickness and should return immediately to the bottom of the mountain, as breathing and any further movement becomes increasingly difficult.[7] More importantly, these kinds of difficulties can be a sign of suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness, which can lead to High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or/and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Acetazolamide (Also known as "Diamox" is often used for preventing / treating acute mountain sickness.

A typical descent from the summit is quicker but it is often equally painful as the ascent: knee joints, ankle joints and toes tend to suffer as the climbers descend more than 3000 m (9850 ft) in five hours.


Tales

There are two stories that led to the main beliefs in the origin of the mountain's name.

The first derivation of the word Kinabalu is extracted from the short form for the Kadazan Dusun word 'Aki Nabalu', meaning "the revered place of the dead".

The second source states that the name "Kinabalu" actually means "Cina Balu" (which would fully mean "A Chinese Widow"). Due to the lingual influence among the Kadazan Dusun of Sabah, the pronunciation for the word "cina" (chee-na) was changed to "Kina" (kee-na).

It was told that a Chinese prince, was cast away to Borneo when his ship sank in the middle of the South China Sea. He was subsequently rescued by the natives from a nearby village. As he recovered, he was slowly accepted as one of the people of the village. Eventually, he fell in love with a local woman, and married her. Years went by, and he started to feel homesick. So he asked permission from his newly-found family to go back to China to visit his parents (the Emperor and Empress of China). To his wife, he promised that as soon as he was done with his family duties in China, he would come back to Borneo to take her and their children back to China.

When he made his return to China, he was given a grand welcome by his family. However, to his dismay, his parents disagreed with him about taking his Bornean wife back to China. Worse, they told him that he was already betrothed to a princess of a neighbouring kingdom. Having no choice (due to high respect towards his parents), he obeyed with a heavy heart.

Meanwhile, back in Borneo, his wife grew more and more anxious. Eventually, she decided that she will wait for her husband's ship. However, since the village was situated far away from the coast, she couldn't afford to come to the shore and wait for him daily. Instead she decided to climb to the top of the highest mountain near her village, so that she could have a better view of the ships sailing in the South China Sea. Thus, she was then seen climbing up the mountain at every sunrise, returning only at night to attend to her growing children.

Eventually her efforts took their toll. She fell ill, and died at the top of the cold mountain while waiting for her husband. The spirit of the mountain, having observed her for years, was extremely touched by her loyalty towards her husband. Out of admiration for this woman, the spirit of the mountain turned her into a stone. Her face was made to face the South China Sea, so that she could wait forever for her dear husband's return.

The people in her hometown who heard about this were also gravely touched by this. Thus, they decided to name the mountain "Kinabalu" in remembrance of her. To them, the mountain is a symbol of the everlasting love and loyalty that should be taken as a good example by women.

Local legend among the people of Ranau, a district in Sabah, has it that St. John's Peak was the stone which her body was turned into.