Emirates resumes regularly scheduled operations after minimal disruption on 23 June

 

Emirates’ passengers experienced minimal disruptions to their travel plans after last night’s (23 June) regional events, with regularly scheduled flights resuming within a few short hours. The airline quickly activated its robust contingency and disruption plans, with no diversions, only a small number of cancellations and a few flights experiencing longer flight paths due to airspace congestion.

Despite rapidly evolving regional developments, it’s been business as usual across the Emirates network. In the past two weeks, Emirates has maintained scheduled services by rerouting flights to avoid conflict zones, successfully serving over 1.7 million passengers on more than 5,800 flights across its global network and delivering certainty to their travel plans when they needed it the most, while upholding its commitment to safe, reliable travel.

The airline took immediate action by suspending flights only to areas directly impacted by conflict while maintaining operations to all other destinations. Services to Amman and Beirut were briefly suspended but resumed quickly, demonstrating Emirates’ ability to nimbly adapt its operations while prioritising safety, and helping thousands of families start their summer holidays.

The safety of Emirates’ passengers and crew is its absolute priority, and the airline would never fly if it was not safe to do so. Emirates continuously monitors developments, coordinates with aviation authorities, and assesses every potential risk to ensure all flights are safely rerouted away from conflict zones, all the while meeting the most stringent regulatory requirements.

Throughout the last two weeks, the airline kept customers informed with regular operational website updates as well as on its social media channels, and reservations teams helped reaccommodate affected customers.

As Emirates gears up for the busy summer travel season, it will continue to actively monitor developments in co-ordination with the relevant authorities, and the airline’s priority will always be to ensure safe and smooth operations, by adapting quickly and appropriately, so that customers can travel with confidence.

For decades, the airline has successfully navigated challenges while maintaining its commitment to connecting customers to their destinations safely, efficiently and comfortably all while delivering exceptional service onboard and on ground. The UAE’s leadership have put in place strong contingency plans and systems to support essential services, empowering Emirates to maintain safe, uninterrupted operations.

Visit Maldives Announces “The World’s Biggest Giveaway” Campaign Featuring 52 Holiday Giveaways - One For Each Week of 2025

 The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) is thrilled to announce the launch of the ‘World’s Biggest Giveaway’ Campaign, a groundbreaking initiative featuring 52 free holiday giveaways—one for every week of 2025. This ambitious campaign was unveiled during the World Travel Mart (WTM) in London on November 5, 2024. Designed to captivate potential travelers from around the world, the campaign aims to boost awareness of the Maldives as a premier year-round travel destination.

The campaign will unfold through a series of monthly social media contests hosted on Visit Maldives’ social media platforms. Each month, four lucky winners will be chosen, culminating in 52 winners throughout the year. Each giveaway will spotlight a unique aspect of the Maldives, showcasing its famed white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the rich diversity of its marine life and culture. The contests will also emphasize different visitor segments, from romantic getaways and luxury experiences to family-friendly holidays, diving adventures, and more.

Mr. Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of MMPRC, emphasized the inclusivity and excitement behind the campaign: “This is the perfect opportunity to discover the Maldives and to promote the Sunny Side of Life as a year-round destination. Anyone from anywhere in the world can participate in this giveaway for the chance to win a dream vacation in the Maldives.”

The primary goal of the campaign is to elevate the global profile of the Maldives by engaging travel enthusiasts through social media, fostering a community that is both informed and inspired by the Maldives’ diverse offerings. Each contest aims to educate participants on the varied experiences available, from luxury and wellness retreats to adventure sports and cultural exploration, thus reinforcing the Maldives’ status as a leading destination for all kinds of travelers.

Beyond this landmark giveaway campaign, Visit Maldives is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the Maldives' reputation as a top tourist destination through various initiatives. These include participation in global trade fairs, webinars, roadshows, and other marketing platforms. The strategic marketing calendar for 2025 will place significant emphasis on sustainability and emerging segments, such as film tourism and wellness tourism, reflecting the evolving preferences of modern travelers.

Through these concerted efforts, MMPRC aims to highlight the Maldives not just as an idyllic vacation spot, but as a dynamic and multifaceted destination that can meet the diverse desires of travelers worldwide. This campaign stands as a testament to the Maldives’ commitment to promoting its unique beauty and cultural richness, ensuring that the ‘Sunny Side of Life’ remains a compelling choice for tourists throughout the year.

Disney Cruise Line Reveals Spaces and Experiences Coming to the Disney Adventure, Setting Sail on December 15, 2025

 When the Disney Adventure sets sail from Singapore on December 15, 2025, guests will be treated to a magical cruise holiday that celebrates Disney’s rich legacy of storytelling, bringing to life the fantastical worlds and beloved characters at the heart of Disney, Pixar and Marvel

Continuing Disney Cruise Line’s tradition of delivering the most magical and relaxing vacations at sea, the Disney Adventure will also feature many “firsts” for the fleet, including experiences specially created for guests in Asia to enjoy.

In a first for Disney Cruise Line, the Disney Adventure will include three all-new Disney attractions on the upper decks in an adventure zone that celebrates the larger-than-life personalities from the Marvel Universe. One of the attractions will be Ironcycle Test Run – the longest rollercoaster at sea. Guests can also look forward to a remarkable spread of dining options comprising not just international favorites but also world-renowned Asian cuisine. Showstopping Broadway-style entertainment will dazzle in an all-new musical spectacular, “Remember,” developed exclusively for the Disney Adventure, and, for every traveling group and size, there will be numerous luxurious and comfortable stateroom types for guests to retreat and unwind in.

Bookings for the Disney Adventure are scheduled to open on December 10, 2024. Details on pricing and sailing dates will be released on November 14, 2024.

“As part of our unprecedented expansion for Disney Cruise Line, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences that bring our special brand of cruising and the best of Disney storytelling to new guests on new shores,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “When the Disney Adventure sets sail in December 2025, guests throughout Southeast Asia will have the opportunity to experience the magic of their favorite Disney, Pixar and Marvel stories, in their very own backyard.”

Disney Cruise Line guests can look forward to an exceptional experience anchored in world-class

entertainment, themed dining and artful accommodations. On the Disney Adventure, this magic will come alive through seven uniquely themed areas: Disney Imagination Garden, Toy Story Place, San Fransokyo Street, Town Square, Wayfinder Bay, Disney Discovery Reef and Marvel Landing.

“Today we unveil the spectacular new Disney Adventure to the world,” said Sarah Fox, vice president and regional general manager, Southeast Asia, Disney Cruise Line. “Sailing on primarily three- and four-night voyages designed with only dedicated days at sea, the ship will include something for everyone. From fun and interactive spaces for kids, to relaxing venues for adults to unwind, to entertaining and engaging places for families to enjoy together, guests will find endless adventures from bow to stern.”

Enthralling Entertainment

Disney Cruise Line’s unique approach to ship design – where every space and venue is an opportunity

for stories to come to life – sets the fleet apart. On the Disney Adventure, guests will be in for entertainment on an epic scale: unforgettable character encounters, dazzling Broadway-style shows, signature events, first-run films, karaoke, game shows and more.

Surrounded by the open sea and sky, the upper decks of the Disney Adventure will have something for everyone to enjoy. At Marvel Landing, guests will experience Avengers-level adventures on three all-

new attractions and experiences inspired by iconic Marvel Super Heroes. On Ironcycle Test Run, a 250-metre-long (820 feet) rollercoaster, guests will test-drive Tony Stark’s latest Ironcycle prototype on a

thrilling high-speed circuit and be suspended up to 9 meters (30 feet) above the upper decks. Aboard

Pym Quantum Racers, guests will steer Pym Tech-modified mini-cars on an oversized toy set track, and

Groot Galaxy Spin will take guests on an out-of-this-world ride onboard a Nova Corp Bass Jumper, set to

an awesome mix of upbeat music.

Also on the upper decks, Toy Story Place will inspire guests to explore, play, connect and have fun in awhimsical water play land where the world of Pixar’s “Toy Story” will spring to life. Designed for families with young children, the area will include playful water features inspired by the films, including a large family pool, multiple whirlpools, towering water slides and interactive splash pads.

In San Fransokyo Street, guests will find Big Hero Arcade, a dynamic family gaming lounge. The centerpiece of Big Hero Arcade will be Hiro Training Zone, an immersive training simulator – an active, full-body experience that will allow groups of four to put their skills to the test as they run, dodge and block their way across a high-tech gaming floor.

In true Disney Cruise Line fashion, dazzling stage shows and Broadway-style entertainment will capture the hearts of guests. At the Walt Disney Theater, two spectacular productions will come to life on stage:

“Remember,” an all-new musical spectacular developed exclusively for the Disney Adventure, will be a heartwarming tale featuring the beloved robot duo from Disney-Pixar’s “Wall-E” and other beloved Disney stars, and a favorite of the fleet, “Disney Seas the Adventure” will take guests on a musical journey through beloved stories featuring iconic Disney songs and characters.

At the heart of the ship, Disney Imagination Garden will have a state-of-the-art Garden Stage with three-deck-high LED screens, setting a wondrous scene for guests with its open-air, amphitheater-style seating. It will be home to several shows starring favorite Disney and Marvel characters, including: Let’s Set Sail, a high-energy dance party that will jumpstart the fun on embarkation day; Avengers Assemble!, an epic battle of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains; Captain Jack Sparrow & the Siren Queen, a swashbuckling adventure helmed by the roguish and charming Captain Jack Sparrow; Mickey’s Color Spin Dance Party, a vibrant and energetic celebration perfect for Disney music lovers of all ages; and Baymax Super Exercise Expo, a musical exercise show inspired by the members of Big Hero 6.

A Dining Extravaganza – Featuring the Best of Asian and International Flavors

Aboard the Disney Adventure, dinner will be more than a meal — it will be a chance to experience favorite Disney stories through immersive theming and distinctly Disney entertainment.

The Disney Adventure will offer rotational dining, Disney Cruise Line’s signature dining concept in which guests will have three distinctly Disney dining experiences during their voyage, with a preset dining schedule included with each booking. Guests will also be accompanied by the same dedicated service team assigned to their dining party throughout the voyage, adding an elevated and personal touch to each meal.

Every guest aboard the Disney Adventure will enjoy a delightful dining experience at one of the ship’s two entertainment restaurants. These standout venues will offer dinner with flair, with signature entertainment featuring appearances and interactions with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck.

Navigator’s Club will honor the prestigious maritime tradition of exclusive “captain’s table” dinners. Hollywood Spotlight Club will evoke the glitz and glamour of the golden age of Hollywood.

Guests will also dine at one of two magically animated restaurants celebrating the art and artistry, as well as the legacy, of Disney and Pixar animated films. Beyond dinner, this will be a one-of-a-kind experience where the dining rooms will transform from black-and-white to full-spectrum color throughout the meal and guests’ own drawings spring to life and star alongside famous characters in a show-stopping, on-screen animated finale throughout the dining rooms.

Animator’s Palate will be adorned with film strips and props from favorite movies such as Disney Animation’s “The Little Mermaid” and “Encanto” and Pixar’s “Toy Story.”

Animator’s Table will feature authentic artwork from iconic films such as Disney Animation’s “Aladdin” and “Frozen” and Pixar’s “Finding Nemo,” showcasing the process of transforming a hand-drawn sketch into living animation.

The spirit and whimsy of beloved Disney and Pixar films will set the stage for meals at Enchanted Summer Restaurant and Pixar Market Restaurant. Both locations will serve buffet-style breakfast and lunch each day, then switch to table-service dinners as part of the dinnertime lineup during each voyage.

Enchanted Summer Restaurant will be a cozy village dining hall inspired by Disney Animation’s “Tangled” and “Frozen.” In the Maximus dining room, guests will feel as if they’ve stepped into a colorful, hand-painted rendition of “Tangled,” while the Olaf dining room will be inspired by a summer snow day celebration in the kingdom of Arendelle.

Pixar Market Restaurant in Toy Story Place will be a celebration of Pixar films. Each dining area will capture the spirit of one of the studio’s beloved films, from “Inside Out” and “Monsters University” to “Turning Red,” “The Incredibles” and more.

In addition to the elaborately themed restaurants, guests can choose from a diverse array of dining options – including fine dining, scrumptious snacks, quick-service restaurants, 24-hour room service, specialty treats and gourmet cafés. These include:

Premium Dining

Palo Trattoria: An elegant, upscale restaurant offering exquisite Italian fare, exceptional wines and superlative service, exclusively for adults on board.

Mike & Sulley’s – Flavors of Asia: A premier dining establishment offering four distinct experiences: a full-service Japanese steakhouse, a lively teppanyaki room, a chic bar with Omakase-style dining, and an outdoor sushi and sashimi offering.

Gourmet dining at Palo Trattoria and Mike & Sulley’s will be available by reservation for an additional charge.

Quick service restaurants

Bewitching Boba and Brews: Vibrant pop art, bright neon lights, and nods to Ursula, the sea witch from Disney’s “The Little Mermaid, will be prominently featured in this eclectic establishment that will offer popular bubble teas and other wickedly delicious concoctions.

Stitch’s ‘Ohana Grill: A chill, beach-style hangout inspired by the Hawaiian setting of Disney’s “Lilo and Stitch,” this diner will dish up burgers, sandwiches and classic American fare.

Cosmic Kebabs: Inspired by Marvel Studios’ “Ms. Marvel,” this quick-service restaurant will offer a flavorful menu of pitas and kebabs.

Mowgli’s Eatery: Serving Indian, including vegetarian and regional dishes, this casual eatery will be inspired by Mowgli’s epic journey through the jungles of India in Disney Animation’s “The Jungle Book.”

Gramma Tala’s Kitchen: An inviting eatery inspired by the vibrant scenery and island flair of Disney Animation’s “Moana,” serving an imaginative menu showcasing the diverse flavors found throughout the Pacific and Asia.

Palo Café: A quaint coffee bar offering a selection of espresso and coffee drinks along with light bites throughout the day in a warm, inviting venue inspired by the seaside Italian town of Portorosso from the Pixar film “Luca.”

Luxurious Accommodations and Elevated Concierge Offerings

The accommodations on the Disney Adventure will blend modern comfort with the enchanting spirit of beloved Disney Animation, Pixar and Marvel stories. Each stateroom will feature thoughtful amenities, family-friendly conveniences and special Disney touches.

From intentionally laid out spaces that provide families with effortless convenience, to imaginative retreats perfect for friends, to abundantly appointed suites for the ultimate indulgence – the Disney Adventure’s variety of stateroom categories and configurations will be available to fit every traveler group and need.

The ship’s world-class accommodations will be equipped with innovations and designs that ensure the ultimate in comfort and relaxation. They will also offer conveniences and amenities that ensure guests of all ages are cared for, and have features that make them purposefully designed for families in their onboard home away from home.

Most main staterooms will feature Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bathroom concept, with a sink and shower in one room and a sink and toilet in a separate room, allowing two people to get ready at once.

Elevated bed frames will provide generous under-bed space to store suitcases and other bulky items essential to family travel.

A menu of complimentary baby and toddler essentials will be available upon request at Guest Services, including cribs, bottle warmers, diaper disposal units and bottle sterilizers.

The concierge experience on the Disney Adventure will be elevated for those seeking the ultimate in luxury and personalized service. With an abundance of dedicated services and benefits that provide convenience and personalization, concierge guests will enjoy access to exclusive areas and amenities, including private retreats, luxury shopping, and first-class spa and fitness facilities. The Concierge

Lounge, inspired by Disney Animation’s “Aladdin,” will be an ideal setting for relaxation, featuring complimentary refreshments and gourmet bites throughout the day.

Concierge guests will feel at home in large, lavishly appointed concierge staterooms and suites that combine refined elegance and amenities with Disney touches, such as curated artwork and thoughtful design inspired by iconic Disney and Marvel films like “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid” and “The Avengers.”

The main Concierge Family Staterooms will feature a primary living space, a secondary bedroom with an

ensuite bathroom and private entrance, and many offer a spacious extended verandah. For ultimate comfort and luxury, the Concierge Suites will provide a modern, open-concept design and spacious one bedroom layouts that can accommodate at least five guests. For a truly superlative experience, the Concierge Royal Suites will offer a spacious living room, a dining area with a bar, a large main bedroom,

a kids’ room with bunk beds, two ensuite bathrooms and an extended verandah with a private whirlpool. There will be two such options – the Elsa Royal Suite and the Anna Royal Suite, inspired by Disney Animation's "Frozen."

Magic at Sea for One and All

The Disney Adventure will feature spaces dedicated exclusively for adults and kids, allowing everyone to choose their own adventure.

Experiences Exclusive to Adults

Relaxation awaits adult guests at the spa on the Disney Adventure, which will offer private treatment rooms and a salon for a range of indulgent treatments, including massages, facials, acupuncture, wellness, beauty and haircare treatments. The expansive Rainforest area will offer a Disney Cruise Line signature spa experience that combines steam, heat and water therapy with aromatherapy. The spa will be available for adults and those 13 and older when accompanied by an adult.

The ship will also have a Fitness Center with state-of-the-art exercise facilities, a juice bar, wellness consultations, a bookable meditation room and dedicated spaces for activities such as cycling and yoga. The fitness center will be available for adults and those 14 and older when accompanied by an adult.

In addition to Palo Trattoria, adults will have the opportunity to unwind at a variety of restaurants, bars and lounges throughout the ship.

Buccaneer Bar: Guests can sip on high end brews and watch live sporting events here, in swashbuckling style.

Tiana’s Bayou Lounge: Brimming with New Orleans-style hospitality, the lounge will serve craft cocktails, zero-proof cocktails, creative mocktails, specialty coffees and teas, and Tiana’s famous beignets.

Spellbound: A shadowy lounge inspired by the evil queen from Disney Animation’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” serving up delicious potions of the cocktail-kind, along with zero-proof cocktails and mocktails.

Market Bar: An alfresco cafe serving up an inspired menu of refreshing beverages, specialty coffees, cocktails, zero-proof cocktails, and mocktails.

Taverna Portorosso: An intimate and picturesque sports bar inspired by Pixar’s Luca, where guests can have a drink, watch a game and enjoy the view of the bustlingly breezeway below.

Cool Clubs for Kids of All Ages

Signature kids’ clubs will provide a world of possibilities for the youngest guests on the Disney Adventure. Disney’s Oceaneer Club will be a wonderland of immersive spaces designed to encourage exploration and discovery for children aged 3 to 10. Divided into themed areas that bring to life beloved Disney, Pixar and Marvel stories, each space will be designed for storytelling, creativity, arts and crafts, dress-up, playing games, watching Disney movies, and meeting favorite Disney characters.

The Hub: At the center of Disney’s Oceaneer Club, The Hub will serve as a portal to the other areas in the space, featuring a stage where kids can enjoy interactive storytelling, special in-person and virtual visits from Disney characters, and dance parties.

Fairytale Hall: Inspired by Disney princesses, this area will allow young royals to engage in imaginative games, arts and crafts, and more.

Andy’s Toy Box: In this oversized playground, kids can explore and play with a variety of interactive props, toys and gadgets.

Marvel WEB Workshop: Young Super Hero recruits will put their skills to the test through training simulations using top-secret Avengers technology.

Walt Disney Imagineering Lab: Kids can participate in hands-on activities and creative experiments, including designing and virtually riding their own rollercoaster.

Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck: Designed for toddlers and tiny cruisers, this nautical-themed playground will offer a range of maritime-themed physical and sensory-style games and activities.

For the littlest guests, aged 6 months to 3 years, it’s a small world nursery will offer babysitting services for a nominal fee in a whimsical environment inspired by the beloved Disney attraction of the same name.

Teens aged 14 to 17 will find their haven at Vibe, a dynamic space where they can meet new friends, watch movies, play games and engage in group activities designed just for them. For tweens aged 11 to 14, Edge offers a vibrant clubhouse where they can have fun, make friends and enjoy various games.

Both Vibe and Edge are cleverly hidden in plain sight, disguised as storefronts on San Fransokyo Street, creating an ultra-exclusive and ultra-cool retreat for teens and tweens to call their own.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line, guests can visit http://www.disneycruise.com/adventure, or contact their travel agent. More information on booking mechanics will be released at a later date. Guests can also follow Disney Cruise Line’s social media channels for updates on booking details and itineraries:

• Facebook: Disney Cruise Line https://www.facebook.com/DisneyCruiseLineSG

• Instagram: @disneycruiselinesg https://www.instagram.com/disneycruiselinesg/

• TikTok: @disneycruiselinesg https://www.tiktok.com/@disneycruiselinesg

MMPRC CEO & MD reaffirms the Maldives commitment to responsible and inclusive tourism development at ITB Berlin 2024 Maldives Media Meet

 During the Maldives Media Meet held at ITB Berlin 2024, CEO & MD Fathmath Thaufeeq of Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) reiterated the government's dedication to responsible and inclusive tourism development. Highlighting the nation's impressive tourism achievements, she disclosed that the Maldives surpassed pre-pandemic visitor levels in 2023, welcoming over 1.8 million tourists—a remarkable feat in global tourism recovery. The momentum continued into February 2024, with record-breaking monthly and daily arrivals, underscoring the Maldives' resilience and appeal.

Acknowledging evolving traveler preferences, Thaufeeq detailed MMPRC's initiatives to promote diverse tourism segments like cultural, sports, and medical tourism. These efforts aim to cater to a broader range of interests and enrich the tourism landscape. Additionally, she emphasized MMPRC's commitment to enhancing existing segments such as nautical tourism, ensuring the Maldives remains a premier destination for various travel styles.

Looking ahead, Thaufeeq outlined plans to develop more transit hotels in Male and Hulhumale to accommodate short-stay travelers and stopovers. This initiative seeks to offer unique experiences within vibrant city communities, fostering opportunities for tailored products and activities. Furthermore, development initiatives are extending to the southernmost regions of the Maldives, aiming for economic growth while benefiting local communities. Visit Maldives' Atolls website segment was introduced to promote diverse stay options and experiences unique to each atoll.

Thaufeeq also highlighted government efforts to increase female employment in the tourism sector. As the first female CEO & MD of MMPRC, she leads a predominantly female board, exemplifying the government's commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment.

In conclusion, Thaufeeq invited visitors to experience the Maldives firsthand, expressing confidence in the nation's tourism future and its potential to positively impact lives worldwide. Through responsible development and inclusivity, the Maldives strives to create enduring benefits for all.

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort Launches Luxury River Cruise

 Anantara Chiang Mai Resort’s prime riverfront location invites exploration in style. Its new river barge, the Nam Jai, is available for both group and private cruises along the Ping River.

The Nam Jai, literally “water from the heart” in Thai, but more commonly understood as “with heart” or “kindness”, is an antique teak rice barge which has been restored by hand and outfitted with comfortable seating for eight. Cruises will set off from the resort’s newly built private pier, Long Muan, which means “fun sailing” in the local Lanna dialect. 

There are two itineraries for guests to choose from. The sunrise cruise departs at 9.00 am for the nearby Wat Ket Karam. One of Chiang Mai’s oldest communities, Wat Ket, it is a melting pot of cultures – Buddhist, Christian, Muslim, Hindu and Sikh – with their different houses of worship built side by side. Guests will have the opportunity to make merit with the Buddhist monks, then cross the road to snack at what was once the city’s best kept secret, but now is in the Michelin guide – the simple roadside stall Lung Kajohn which serves up delicious bite-sized steamed rice dumplings, Khao Kriab Pak Moh. From there, it is a short stroll to the quaint pedestrian bridge of Khua Khaek for views of the river and Doi Suthep in the background. 

The twilight voyage departs at 5.00 pm, sailing north past some of the city’s most iconic bridges, small temples and into lush green. This is a magical time of day, when the air stills and the sky begins to glow ochre then pink. Guests enjoy free-flow sparkling wine, canapes and a romance to savour. 

“At Anantara, we believe in immersing guests in the real destination”, says Pitak Norathepkitti, General Manager of the resort. “A river cruise is a distinctly Thai experience, as well the perfect way to observe local life and rhythms unobtrusively. Our new offering will be one of the most luxurious in Chiang Mai, and we are immensely excited to share it with our guests and locals alike”.

The Nam Jai cruise is ready to welcome all guests, with prices beginning at THB 1,800++ per person for sunrise cruise and THB 2,800++ per person for twilight voyage. For more information or reservations, visit anantara.com/chiang-mai/restaurants/nam-jai-river-cruise, call +66 53 253 333 or email chiangmai@anantara.com

PENANG CITY HALL, PENANG

City Hall is a municipal building in George Town, Penang, which was formerly the seat of the City Council of George Town.
Originally built in 1903 as the Municipal Office, Penang, the building was erected at a cost of $100,000 to relieve demand for office space at the adjacent Town Hall, which then took on a more social function. Both buildings stand in front of the Padang on Esplanade Road.

Kek Lok Si (极乐寺), Penang

he Kek Lok Si Temple (极乐寺) is one of the famous attraction in Penang and itr is named under the name - "Temple of Supreme Bliss". Kek Lok Si is situated in Air Itam, a suburb of Georgetown. You can make that by local bus from the Komtar, but you can also make it by taxi.

3rd Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2011

Is Finally UP UP UP. The 3rd Putrajaya International Hot air ballon is finally here again during the last weekend from 18 -20 March 2011. Here I am again this year and get a chance to go inside to enjoy the actions of the people setting up and how the air ballon goes ups..

PINANG PERANAKAN MANSION, PENANG

At the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, the typical home of a rich Baba of a century ago is recreated to offer a glimpse of their opulent lifestyle and of their many customs and traditions. With over 1,000 pieces of antiques and collectibles of the era on display, this Baba-Nyonya museum is also housed in one of Penang’s heritage mansion of eclectic design and architecture.

PAVILLION KUALA LUMPUR

It is located @ the heart of the trendy Bukit Bintang district lies the perfect reason to indulge in fashion, food and urban leisure. Experience the excitement of this 1.37 mil sq ft retail haven with 450 outlets offering the finest fashion and home furnishing to entertainment and culinary delights. Let the endless appeal of Malaysia's premier shopping destination awaken your senses the moment you arrive at its doorstep.

2nd Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon

Wah, I just found a lot of pix on places I went before where I had not blogged. Gosh.. The 3rd Putrajaya Hot Air Baloon is on the track and we went there yesterday. Like last year, this year hot air balloon fiesta event will bring 19 hot air balloon participants from all over the globe such as France, New Zealand, Belgium, Netherlands and of course Malaysia too. Before I post that, the 2nd one is indeed not as much pix I took compare to the 3rd one.

The event is usually once a year @ Putrajaya and the place is usually packed with photographers. Some pictures I took last year are below.

ONE DAY TRIP TO PULAI KETAM

Pulau Ketam trip had been back dated a long time and at last i have time to blog them up today. Lets see whats the history or whats about the island.

"Pulau Ketam, literally translated, means "Crab Island". It is a small island located off the coast of Port Klang, Selangor, Malaysia, and was founded circa 1880. The island is easily accessible from the Port Klang jetty by ferry. The "floating houses" that come to view as visitors approach the island are a sight to awe any city slickers. Perching casually on long wooden stilts, these dwellings are suspended about one to ten (1-10) metre above sea level.

Pulau Ketam is well known for dumping close to 400 helpless dogs on an adjacent island to fend for themselves, in which many are reported to have perished in a cruel manner."

from Wikipedia

Thats our passes towards the trip "to and back"

The ferry which transport us there.. not like the one in Penang. 

This ferry is more like a big boat to me :P

We had our half day so called trip there where we went for Klang for BKT and we went there after that. The trip is about an hour boat ride to the island. We thought of a small trip there and this trip is wif Jo, YH, Carolynn, Darren and my beloved dear. We had taken pictures up and down left and right towards the trip .. haha.. but i just supposed to choose some of the pix.

The trip started.. and the boat is emerging to our destination. Could not compare to the white blue sea in Sabah..

We saw big ships which are probably from Port Klang and having their uplift or export import their products to other places

While in there, we are too bored and did take some pix on the railings as well.

DAY 5 SABAH TRIP ( 23 AUGUST 2010)

Nothing on the last day vut moving round the mall- The place we stayed is located just next to the mall. The TUNE shop.. simply nice.. Wondering does this shop ties with Tune Hotel or Air Asia??

We also had a delighting specialities of Sandakan dine here in 1 Borneo and the crocodile meat and the Prawn BKT

DAY 4 SABAH TRIP ( 22 AUGUST 2010)

The Masjid Terapung is our morning visit where the iconic mosque is located.

We went down for a town walk where on Sunday they had SUnday Market. There is a Malaysia Monument to be taken there as well.

Here goes the Sunday Market where you enjoy the magnicifcent culture and you can almost find everything there. From food, souveniers and to animals and more to go there.

DAY 3 SABAH TRIP ( 21 AUGUST 2010)

Our day 3, is on the trip to the Mount Kinabalu. The trip up to the hill is indeed refreshing and a fun trip. Roads are not straight road but uphill road.

We reached there but the weather is very cold and the clouds is thick. We hardly can see the tip of the mountain and slight disappointment.

Along the way, we see cars and stalls of selling local food and delights

We are now on the hill but is not the tip. It is at the road where is the final stop for cars. So, you need to walk up if you want to reach up. We did not make our move up but we stop at the Final Car stop which is at the Pondol Timponan. Here you may see the people helping to carry your bags with RM 10-20 per kilo up hill.

DAY 2 SABAH TRIP ( 20 AUGUST 2010)

Had our breakfast down in KK town and we had a delicious pork noodles.

The kon lo mee which is simply delicious.

The pork soup.

We then headed to the Lok Kawi park which is about 20 minutes drive down town. With our GPS we reach the destination safely. The Lok Kawi Park is a wild life parks which are full with wildlife.

#1: Deer
#2: The elephants
#3: The chempanzee
#4: The honey bear

SABAH TRIP DAY 1 ( 19 AUGUST 2010)

The 2010 trip had been planned ahead for the past few months. Thanks to Air Asia which are providing a cheap and affordable fare of the year. I been thinking of going to Sabah again after my last trip in 2008. This is the trip i went with my beloved ones.

I booked them from a package AIR ASIA GO with 5 days 4 night trip for only RM 660. Is truly a cheap and affordable package for me. So, the day had come. We went there through a big plane of Air Asia departed at 8.00 am. No delay from AirAsia and the place had been numbered.

23 January 2010 - Trip to Kellie Castle, Perak

It has been sometime we visited the castle which is being to said as one of the sight seeing in Perak aside the caves.

 

Aquaria KLCC - A visit

The first Visit to Aquaria KLCC after my days in KL.. had been so long. I make a visit recently as i am indulged with the lenses of my camera and is snapping time.

The Aquaria KLCC is an underwater park located beneath Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre within Kuala Lumpur City Centre development precinct.Featuring 60,000 sq ft (6,000 m²) in two levels with a 90-metre long underwater tunnel, Aquaria KLCC houses over 250 different species and over 20,000 land and aquatic animals from Malaysia and around the world. Interative information kiosks on fishes and turtle conservation. Themed retail area of around 5,000 sq ft (500 m²)

The tickets

  
  

  

 


 

 

 

Address:

Aquaria KLCC Concourse Level,

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

50088 Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Operating Hours

Open Daily from 11am- 8pm

(Including weekends, school & public holidays)

Last admission at 7pm

Admission Fee

Adult (without MyKad) RM38

Child (without MyKid) RM26

Adult (with MyKad) RM28

Child (with MyKid) RM22

Senior Citizen (60yrs and above) RM18

Infants (under the age of 3) FOC