Monthly Archives: August 2017

Top Rated Holidays Attractions in the Philippines

philipines-header

A beautiful country in the Far East, the Philippines is an amazing destination for an exciting holiday. Have a look at the interesting places to visit that we have lined up for you so you can make the best of your time here.

Mactan

This sublime island situated a little further from Cebu in the Philippines, is about 65 square kilometres with a population of about 470,000. It is a perfect place to have new adventures and experiences such as jet-skiing, scuba diving and snorkelling. The tropical weather, clear waters and white sands – all add to the beauty of this place. Take a closer look at the enchanting aquatic life here, and try some of the best seafood of your life. Relax on beach loungers or enjoy luxury spa therapies and rejuvenate yourself completely!

Rizal ParkRizal-Park

This is a historical park and is also known as the Luneta National Park. You must visit it if you are keen to learn about the culture, art and tradition of this country.Situated in the Roxas Boulevard, Manila, this is a major tourist attraction and people from all around the world visit here. With Spanish and American colonial influences, there are several historically important buildings here.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

This river national park comprises of different terrains and landscapes. St. Paul’s Underground River Cave is one of the major attractions of this place. It’s a UNESCO protected area, home to several species of flora and fauna. People from different parts of the world come and visit this amazing place where you can hike, trek, or enjoy boat rides and safaris through the place, spotting some of the most exotic animals, birds, and flora you have ever seen.

Boracay

With several resorts and beaches, it won’t be wrong to say that this is one of the most interesting places in the country. If you are looking for the perfect beach holiday, there is nothing like this place. Go island hopping, enjoy shopping for souvenirs, try local food and drinks, mingle with the local people and learn about their way of living and visit art galleries.

Coron Island

The land of lagoons and lakes and reefs, Coron Island is nothing short of a preview to paradise. The Philippines is literally an undiscovered gem and you will realise when you go here, how truly aesthetically blessed this place is.

Siargao

What’s most unique about this island is that it is in the shape of a tear drop. To say that this place is beautiful could be a gross understatement; you have to see it to believe it! 800 kms south from Manila, this place is all sun, sand and surf. Beaches, mangroves and reefs – you can have the perfect island adventure here – go hiking, work on your sun tan, or play beach volleyball and sip on the finest cocktails when you are tired!

Some of the Oldest National Parks in the USA

Blessed with the best of natural beauty, unique geological features and unusual ecosystems, the United States of America is a country enjoying abundant natural riches. With around 59 protected areas and a number of national parks, a holiday in USA is incomplete without exploring its rich wildlife. The first national park was established in the country around 145 years ago and several others came up soon thereafter.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Comprising of several lakes, rivers, mountains ranges and canyons, Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States. The park is home to around 1700 species of plants.  The gray wolf, coyote, the threatened Canadian lynx, the bison, black bear, elk, moose, mule deer, white-tailed deer, mountain goat, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and cougar are some of the animals spotted here. Apart from the rich flora and fauna, the park is famous for its geysers and scenic locations.

Sequoia National Park

Established in 1890 to protect the rich flora and fauna of the country, Sequoia National Park is the second oldest national park in the United States. Featuring rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns, mountains and some of the world’s largest trees, it is also home to several wild animals, such as coyote, black bear, bighorn sheep, deer, fox, cougar, species of turtle, opossum, wolverine, roadrunner, beaver and muskrat. While game watching is the most popular activity in the park, you can also enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, backpacking and other adventure sports here. The Sequoia and Kings Canyon Museum, housing over 800,000 objects and archives; Tunnel Log; Tokopah Falls; and Moro Rock are the popular attractions in and around the park.

Yosemite National Park

Known for its granite cliffs, lakes, mountains, biological diversity, waterfalls, clear streams and giant sequoia groves, Yosemite National Park remains one of the most visited national parks in the USA. The wildlife includes great grey owl, willow flycatcher, Yosemite toad, mountain beaver, brown bear and California condor. Hiking, climbing, downhill skiing, camping and tours to the nearby preservatory and research centre are top activities among the tourists.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainer National Park is another, old national park in United States. Located close to the city of Tacoma, it is home to mammals and amphibians and birds like including cougar, black bear, raccoon, coyote, bobcat, snowshoe hare, weasel, red fox, porcupine, skunk, marmot, marten, pika, elk, raptors, chickadee, kinglet, northern goshawk, willow flycatcher, spotted owl, bald eagle, ptarmigan, harlequin duck, peregrine falcon and golden eagle. Official records, manuscripts, images, and other collectables can be found at the library and archive centre.

Crater Lake National Park

Located in southern Oregon, Crater Lake National Park was established in 1902 with an aim to protect the endangered species of the country. The park has a large population of birds and animals including Canadian lynxes, beavers, chipmunks, foxes, cougars, squirrels, porcupines, black bears, coyotes, timber wolves, elk, muskrats, martens, American dippers, peregrine falcons, ravens, gray jays, bald eagles, hummingbirds and spotted owls. Along with protecting the animal and bird population, the park features a collection of archives and records at the Crater Lake Museum and Archives Collection.

Tips for a Safe and Sound Train Journey in India

train

A train journey is usually associated with long distances, romantic stories, idyllic villages, lush fields and beautiful memories. But if you’ve travelled in a train in India or know someone who has, you would agree with us that though train journey through diverse country can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your India trip

 

, it is often unnerving to take a journey in Indian trains for issues that range from safety to hygiene. But should that stop you from taking one of the most memorable train rides you are ever going to take? Absolutely not!

Here are five easy tips to follow to stay safe on a train in India, and make the most of your time aboard:

Keep Your Luggage Locked at All Times

This may sound like conventional wisdom, but you wouldn’t believe the statistics that say that every passenger who has travelled in Indian trains for more than five times has lost a belonging at least once in their lifetime. While this could be a measure of carelessness, it also says a lot about general safety in these trains. To avoid being a victim, keep your luggage chained to your seat at all times and your keys in a hand bag that you should carry with yourself at all times. Don’t make an exception to this safety rule even if you are travelling the first class.

Take Your Own Food or Pre-Order

Though a majority of trains travelling long distances in India serve meals, the food served is not always of the best quality or offer many choices. To avoid getting sick while you are still travelling toward your destination, take your own meals to the trains or rely on one of the many catering services that deliver freshly cooked food to you at your seat on the station of your preference.

Do Not Forget Your Ear Plugs

Be prepared for the fact that you will have a hard time sleeping, reading or concentrating on beautiful views outside because of the consistent noise, especially if you are travelling to India for the first time. Consistent movement from washrooms to seats, and from one berth to another as well as noisy hawkers selling food, pens and other products are common on Indian trains. If you don’t want to disturb your Zen, keep your earplugs handy at all times.

Befriend a Family on the Train

One of the most common tips followed by frequent travellers, especially women is that they strike a conversation and befriend a local family on the train. It is brilliant move as local families will always be in a better position to protect you against the unwanted elements in a foreign country. Indian families are known to go out of their way by offering food, travel advice and a safety net once they realise you mean well.

Always Dress Modestly While Travelling

Though this tip applies to all places you travel in India, it is especially useful when you are in close contact with locals at places such as trains. Because there’s always a chance to find a leering eye, and curious gaze directed in your direction, try and wear clothes that are deemed appropriate by locals. Adapt to your surroundings and dress in a way that doesn’t offend local sensibilities. Though largely valid for women, men are also advised to tone down elements in their dressing that might attract them unwanted attention, and consequently danger to their safety.

Cheers!! 5 Popular Breweries in New Zealand

new-zealand

With over 150 commercial breweries and traditional microbreweries, New Zealand could well be the emerging hub for the beer lovers from across the world. Here is a list of some of the country’s finest breweries, where you can enjoy the beer as well as a beer tour.

Speight’s Brewery

The biggest New Zealand brewery, Speight’s is also one of the most popular breweries in the country. Founded in 1876 by James Speight, this traditional brewery is home to several handcrafted beer, which are crafted using authentic, local flavours from across the country. Speight’s Gold Rush, Speight’s Gold Medal Ale, Speight’s Summer Lager, Speight’s Summit Citrus Lager, Speight’s Summit Apple Lager, Speight’s Mild Ale and Speight’s Malt Old Drunk are among the famous beer produced here. For beer lovers, summer tours, winter hours and guided excursions to the nearby cellar house are offered.

Monteith’s Brewery

Monteith’s Brewery produces some amazing handcrafted beer in New Zealand. Located in Greymouth, this popular beer house brews Celtic Beer, Golden Lager, Original Ale, Radler, Pointers Pale Ale, Summer Ale, Pilsner Beer, Radler Bier, New Zealand Lager, Summer Ale, Winter Ale, Bock Bier, Crushed Apple Cider and Crushed Pear Cider. A personalised 25-min guided tour around the brewery along with beer tasting is offered to the guests.

Epic Brewing Company

Located in Otahuhu town, Epic Brewing Company is a famous beer hub in New Zealand. It is awarded with several accolades including the 2011 BrewNZ Beer Awards, New Zealand International Beer Awards and Gold & Best in Class – 2011 BrewNZ Beer Awards. With over 51 different types of beer including Core Beer, Stone Hammer series, One Trick Pony series, House of Nicholas, and Collaboration beer, it is great place to learn about different kinds of beer served in and around the world. Beer tasting events, tours and guided excursions to the nearby cellar house are conducted regularly for the visitors. You can also buy souvenirs and gifts from the in-house shop.

Invercargill Brewery

Established by Steve Nally in the late 90’s, Invercargill Brewery is known for being home to a classic collection of handcrafted flavoured beer including a special seasonal collection. The Pitch Black, B.Man, Wasp, Stanley Green and Nally’s Dry Cider are among the famous drinks produced at the brewery. There’s also a 20 tap in-house cellar house on the premises. The place also hosts some good beer festivals.

McCashins Brewery

Headquartered in Nelson, McCashins Brewery is yet another thriving brewery in New Zealand. Beer lovers love this place as it features some of the most amazing, flavoured beer available in the city. Stoke Beer, in particular, is a big hit with the town folks and the visitors. It is prepared using natural ingredients and no added preservative is used. 2 Stoke, Lager, Pilsner, Gold, IPA, Amber and Dark Beer are other kinds brewed here. Along with enjoying brewery tours and sampling free beer, you can buy your choice of drink from the bottle store and bar.

5 Most Popular Beach Towns in Australia

Beach

Comprising of over 8000 islands and tiny islets, Australia is one of the most sought after beach holiday destinations. Offering a perfect escape from the bustling city life are some beautiful beach towns in the country. Read on to know more!

Yamba, New South Wales

Founded in 1854 by a few European travellers, Yamba is a beautiful beach town in Australia. Featuring around six pristine beaches including Whiting, Turners, Yamba, Pippi, Flat Rock (Barri Point) and Barri (locally known as Dump Beach), it is  a perfect spot to enjoy the best of sun and sand in the region. Surfing, diving and snorkelling are among the popular activities enjoyed by the tourists here. Byron Bay, Yuraygir National Park, Clarence River Light, Story House Museum and several aboriginal villages are other attractions in the region. For an ideal culinary experience, make your way to the nearby shacks and street stalls serving a wide range of authentic dishes.

South West Rocks, New South Wales

A hidden gem on the horseshoe bay in New South Wales, South West Rocks is a beautifully designed and well maintained town. Originally established in 1866 by invaders from the north, the town today is a charming seaside town known for being home to some fine beaches. Major attractions in the town include Trial Bay Gaol, Arakoon National Park, Hat Head National Park, Smoky Cape Lighthouse and Fish Rock Cave. Swimming, diving, trekking and camping are some of the activities people can enjoy in the town. Moreover, you can spot whales here between the months of May and November.

Beachport, South Australia

Situated on the Limestone Coast south of Mt Gambier, Beachport is a popular coastal town in Australia. This popular beachside town is a perfect for those looking for a quick escape from the bustling city life. Railway Terrace, Old Wool & Grain Store – National Trust Museum, 5 Railway Terrace, Rivoli Bay Pool of Siloam, Beachport Conservation Park and Penguin Island Conservation Park are among the popular attractions in the town.

1770, Queensland

Named after the landing of Captain James Cook on May 1770 on the island, 1770 is a beautiful, tiny town. Formerly called ‘Round Hill’, this stunning coastal town is known for its pristine beaches and offers a wide range of interesting water sports and recreational activities including boating, swimming, deep sea diving, fishing, camping, surfing and hiking. It has four national parks, namely Deepwater, Eurimbula, Mount Colosseum, and Round Hill.

Palm Cove, Queensland

Located 27 kilometres north of Cairns, Palm Cove is a town famous for its tall palm trees as well as offering the scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape. A tropical village by the sea, this beautiful coastal paradise is a perfect escape for those longing to spend time with their loved ones on the beach. White water rafting, hot air balloon ride, parachuting, horse riding, deep sea or reef fishing, kayaking, jet skiing and sailing are among the popular activities in the town.

Food at Its Best! Popular Restaurants in Singapore

food

Serving a delightful medley of Chinese, Malay, Indian and other interesting cuisines from different parts of the world, food in Singapore is a major attraction. Scattered across the length and breadth of the country, restaurants in Singapore are perfect spots to savour upon a tantalising range of gastronomic delights and traditional delicacies. Here is a list of popular restaurants in Singapore.

Restaurant André, Chinatown

Offering a perfect culinary experience mixed with Southern French nouvelle cuisine, Restaurant André is a top choice among food lovers in Singapore. Situated in a quaint three-storey heritage shop house in Chinatown, the restaurant is known for serving some of the finest dishes along with natural wine prepared by the famous international chef, Andre Chiang . The famous ‘Octaphilosophy’ (bold flavours in his foie gras jelly with black truffle) is a major highlight of the restaurant. For the restaurant is usually crowded, prior reservations is usually recommended.

JAAN, Marina Bay

Best to enjoy the panoramic views of the Singapore skyline while savouring some amazing food, JAAN is a popular multi-cuisine restaurant in Singapore. Located in one of the tallest hotels in the city, this 40-seat restaurant has been awarded the title of ‘best restaurant in Asia’ and features a five-or seven course set menu prepared under Chef Kirk Westaway. The confit rainbow trout (kurobuta pork with miso caramel and Yuzu), the Welsh lamb ‘Provencale’ and artichoke ravioli (ricotta and basil) are a few of the standout dishes here. Around 500 different types of wine and finest KRUG Champagne are served at JAAN.

Tippling Club, Chinatown

Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in Singapore, Tippling Club is a perfect venue to enjoy some amazing food and drinks on the island. Situated in Chinatown, it serves a medley of dishes prepared by top chefs from across the world. Langoustine (kohlrabi, dashi cream and shiso), Wild halibut (artichoke, miso & Yuzu curd, beurre noisette), aged duck (purple carrot, black quinoa, mandarin), Foie Gras (textures of cherry and Iranian pistachio), and scallops (Brittany purple garlic soup) are the top choices among visitors here. Offering private dining along with a cocktail bar and lounge, Bin 38 is operational on level 2 of the restaurant.

CUT, Marina Bay Sands

Crafted and managed by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, CUT is the best steakhouse in the town and one of the most popular eating joints in Singapore. Opened in 2010, the restaurant today is known for serving some of the rarest varieties of beef prepared using natural ingredients and authentic flavours. Among others, American Prime Steak, Australian grain-fed Angus, Snake River Farm Angus ‘Kobe style beef’, and Japanese Wagyu beef mostly available in usual cuts like ribeye, tenderloin, T-bone, sirloin, rump, and fillet are big hits here.

Les Amis, Orchard

Earning itself the reputation of one of the finest French classic restaurants in Asia, Les Amis is a popular choice among the tourists visiting Singapore. Opened in 1994, this stunning two storey restaurant serves authentic French cuisine mixed with a touch of Asian spices and traditional herbs. Marinated baby yellow tail with piquillo pepper, white tomato pasta with octopus, Iberico pork tenderloin and tarte tatin with hazelnut are among the most popular dishes available here. Thai-inspired dessert with lime, basil and mango is quite an attraction among those with a sweet tooth. For an avid wine lover, over 2000 different types of wines are available in Les Amis.

Top 10 Tips for Travelling Solo

solo-traveller

Travelling solo is a terrific plan but the idea has its perils too.  If you happen to be someone thinking of embarking on a travel trip all by yourself, you probably have calculated the ups and downs of the same. But if you have not, these below mentioned tips on solo travelling will definitely help you explore the world in a safe way.

Learn about the destination

Read as much as you can about the destination you are heading to. Make a list of places which are not tourist friendly. Also keep a tab on the famous local news channels aired at the place. It is good to know which places you must visit but better to know about the ones you should not.

Pack wisely

Solo travelling empowers you to travel at your discretion and packing wisely complements those decisions. Pack as light as you can. Swap dresses for extra pair of t-shirts and heels with sports shoes. This will make sure you don’t get a headache trying to carry humongous travel-cases while travelling from one city to another.

A family or friends ‘Whats-app’ group

Solo trips require the utmost levels of confidence and knowing someone has got your back absolutely helps. Create a Whatsapp group including a few people you trust completely, and drop information of your whereabouts constantly. Tell them which hotel you are staying in and places you plan to visit next. If possible keep sending emails as well.

Make new friends but be careful

Meeting like-minded travellers on a solo trip is probably the best perk of travelling solo but be careful while doing so. If you feel anything dicey about the new people you are meeting, politely make an excuse, tell them something urgent came up and retreat from the place. Don’t share where you are staying instantly with anyone you have just met!

Learn some words from the local lingo

No we are not telling you to master a new language in a few days. All we are saying is learn a few phrases and common slangs used in the country you are visiting. For example – learn to ask where is the toilet or the police station? Leaning to speak thank-you in local language can also help.

Copy all essential documents

Copy all travel documents including visa, passport and your id proofs and keep them with you at all times. It is also advisable to store electronic copies of these documents on your phone and on emails. Leaving duplicate copies of these with a friend or a family member is also a good idea. Doing so will help especially in cases of pick-pocketing.

Don’t become a sitting duck

Touts and anti-social elements specialize in identifying tourists in crowds. Try to gel with the local population, as the same will definitely keep you off the radars of goons. Wear normal t-shirt and jean combos and do not pick out fancy stuff including that expensive DSLR camera too often.

Learn to say no

It is sure that you will meet a lot of people acting needy and asking for small charities. You will also meet people who would encourage you to go to parties out of the city or talk you in for trying new things. Say no and walk away if you feel anything fishy.

Stick to day tours

Though night tours are fun, you may want to consider sticking to day tours as you are the only one practically taking care of yourself. If in case you decide to visit a restaurant or a local club in the night make sure to educate yourself about the place first and only go to places which are crowded and have ample transportation options located nearby.

Use local transport

Taking about the means you will be using to commute from one place to another on a solo trip, it is strongly advisable that you use local means of transport. Use trains, buses, metros and tramps as much as possible. This way you will always be surrounded by people and chances of mishaps will decrease significantly.

Dining Etiquette in Different Parts of the World

Treating your taste buds to local flavours at the place of your holiday is one of the most sought after experiences for any traveller or foodie. The idea of relishing an authentic meal in a foreign country is all fun till the time you don’t get stared at for your sloppy table manners.

Dining

Since dinning customs and rituals around the world vary from one another, and what may be considered appropriate, and even an advisable thing to do at the dining table in one country may be something that offends your fellow diners in another, you need to watch out for common mistakes to avoid while dining around the world.

Slurp All You Like in Japan

While slurping might get you condescending looks from fellow diners in most of the western world, it is a recommended practise while eating in Japan. The Japanese believe that the louder your slurp, the more you appreciate the food at the table. Also, try learning the accepted ways of using the chopstick in Japan and China before you visit. As a principle, don’t lick them, don’t cross them or stick them vertically into a bowl.

The Right is Right and the Left is Wrong in the Middle East

We’re talking of hands here. In the Middle East, and also countries like India and Pakistan, it is considered unclean to eat food with your left hand as the left hand is assigned the tasks of maintaining the basic hygiene of the body. Also, don’t be surprised if you see people eating with their hands, directly off the plate in these parts of the world as it is commonplace to do so.

Use Fork and Spoon or Fork and Bread in France

The French use both their hands for eating and use either a combination of fork and knife or fork and bread. The bread is consumed not only as an appetiser but serves the same purpose of pushing the food onto the fork as a knife. There is also a right way of eating the bread i.e. breaking it into a piece and not biting into it directly.

Pizza with Extra Cheese? Not In Italy

Though the entire world treats itself to cheese-burst and extra-cheese pizzas, it is considered impolite to add extra cheese to your pizza in Italy. As a ritual you should never ask for cheese separately in Italy if you have not been offered some.

Hands on the Table in Russia

The Russians consider keeping your hands in your lap impolite while dining. So if your hands need rest, make sure you rest them on the edge of the table. It is also advisable to always follow the Fork in Left, and Knife in Right rule in Russia.

Sharing is Caring in Ethiopia

The Ethiopians all eat from a single plate of food with hands. You might find it odd, but it is best that you don’t eat in your own plate while dining in the country as it is considered wasteful.

Popular whale watching destinations in the World

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From the edges of the Arctic to the oceans of the Antarctic, Whales are among the craziest and the scariest water creatures in the world. The killer ones or the belugas or the humpbacked or short finned pilot or the common minke or the long finned pilot, there is something magical about these giant ocean organisms. For whale watching is a popular and interesting activity, take a look at the best places to spots these animals in their natural habitat.

Alaska, United States

Sharing its coast with the mighty Pacific Ocean, Alaska is home to a wide population of Humpback whales, minke whales, orca whales and gray whales.

Whale

With a number of whale watching tours, cruises and excursions available within the city, a holiday in this coastal paradise is incomplete without spotting these giant water creatures up front and close. Seward, Whittler and Home Alaska are the best places to watch these whales in their natural habitat. Usually, the months starting from February till late September are considered the best time to enjoy whale watching in Alaska.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Featuring a large population of humpback, minke, white-beaked dolphins, porpoises and blue whales, Reykjavik is fast emerging as a popular whale watching destination in the world. Owing to its location, close to the North Atlantic Ocean and subtropical climate, spotting these mammoth water creatures in their natural habitat or as they return from migration is quite an interesting activity. Guided tours from different cities are also available and operational for both tourists and locals alike. For those not comfortable with water, The Whales of Island Museum is the best place to spot over 23 life-size man-made models of Whales.

Hervey Bay, Queensland

Majorly known as the ‘Whale watching capital of the world’, Hervey Bay is a popular tourist hotspot in Australia. Whether it is the mighty humpback or magnificent orca or the spy hock or loud tail or the pec slaps, the bay area is packed with a number of these mighty water mammals. With several boat tours, shore based tours, cruises and guided whale watching excursions available in the area, spotting these ocean creatures is a popular activity among tourists and visitors. Those who don’t like water, make your way to the Whale Museum located in Downtown Friday Harbour.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Situated close to the peninsula on the Gulf of California, Los Cabos is yet another popular tourist destination for whale watchers from across the globe. The gray whales, humpback whales, blue whales, rorqual whales, sperm whale and the orca are among the famous whales found here. Among other destinations, the tranquil lagoons are best to spot these species in their natural habitat. Those interested in watching whale mating, birthing, nursing and other activities, Magdalena Bay is the place to be. Although there are tours available throughout, guided boat tours, cruises and guided excursions are more adventurous during the months from November to early December.

Valdes Peninsula, Argentina

Nestled along the coast of Argentina, Valdes Peninsula is a well-known tourist attraction in the world. Owing to its geography and favourable climate, this peninsular zone is home to a wide population of whales, sea lions and seals, especially the famous rorqual whales, sperm whale and the orca. Whale watching excursions, boat tours and ship cruises are available all across the peninsula for those willing to watch these giant mammals upfront and close. On and off, penguins and other creatures can also be spotted strolling on the beach.

Top Places to Enjoy the Wildlife in Malaysia

wildlife

With a string of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, Malaysia is a country teeming with exciting flora and fauna. Read on and find out about some of the country’s major wildlife hubs.

Taman Negara National Park

Established between 1938 and 1939, Taman Negara National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the country. Located close to Titiwangsa Mountains, the park protects several species of animals and birds including the famous Malayan tiger, crab-eating macaque, gaur, Indian elephant, Argus, red jungle fowl, and mahseer. The endangered Malayan peacock-pheasant can also be spotted here. Apart from observing the wildlife, you can enjoy numerous other outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, caving, fishing, and camping.

Endau-Rompin National Park

Nestled amidst the Tenasserim Hills, Endau-Rompin National Park is the second largest national park in Malaysia. Established in 1993 with an aim to preserve the country’s dwindling wildlife, the park boasts the largest population of threatened Northern Sumatran rhinoceros. Other animals living in the park include the white-handed gibbon, Malaysian tiger, wild boar, tapir, slow loris, deer, and long-tail macaques. Hornbills and Kingfishers can also be spotted in the park.

Turtle Islands National Park

Comprising of three small islands namely Selingaan, Little Bakkungan and Gulisaan and several tiny corals, Turtle Island National Park is a popular tourist attraction in the country. Set up in 1977 to conserve the endangered green and hawksbill turtles, the park provides its visitors an excellent opportunity to watch turtle landings, breeding and hatching. As the process of turtle landing takes places after dusk, an overnight stay in the nearby accommodation is usually recommended.

Kuching Wetlands National Park

Kuching Wetlands National Park is one of the famous parks in Malaysia. Made up of three major ecosystems – marine, coastal and freshwater, it has a large population of birds and animals including the endangered proboscis monkey, long-tailed macaques, silver langurs, mudskippers, white bellied sea eagles and horse shoe crabs.

Kinabalu Park

Located on the western coast of Sabah, Kinabalu Park is one of the earliest established national parks in the country. This popular UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 4,500 different species of birds, reptiles and animals including the ochraceous bulbul, philautus bunitus male, crested dragon, black and golden cicada and orb web spider. Kinabalu Giant Red Leech and Kinabalu Giant Earthworm are the two endemic reptiles found in the park. Also, Nepenthes rajah, the famous carnivore plant, is found here.