Homestay

Malaysian Homestay Programme

What is a homestay programme?
A homestay programme gives tourists the opportunity to stay with a chosen family, interact and experience the daily life of their homestay family and learn the culture and lifestyle of the rural community in Malaysia. A homestay programme cannot be classified as a lodging facility. It focuses more on lifestyle and experience, including cultural and economic activities.

What types of activities are offered in a homestay programme?
Each homestay programme offers different types of activities, depending on the culture, food, economic activity as well as location. Every state in Malaysia has its own uniqueness in terms of culture, ranging from the nasi dagang in Kelantan to the sumazau dance in Sabah, as well as the long houses in Sarawak. Examples of homestay activities include:

(i) Culture and Lifestyle

• History
• Traditional dances, traditional songs and traditional food
• Traditional games and sports
• Culture: marriage, assembly of animal sacrifice and festivals

(ii) Economic Activity

• Rubber tapping
• Fish breeding
• Agriculture: paddy, cocoa, oil palm, fruit

(iii) Recreation

• Sightseeing
• Jungle trekking
• White water rafting
• Visit to nearby tourism products

(iv)  Environmental preservation

• Tree Planting Programme: Tourists are encouraged to plant trees at their homestays with the aim of preserving the environment and further beautifying the landscape of the homestays.

The Malaysia Rail Explorer is a new homestay package where tourists are invited to experience rural life in Kelantan. Visiting Kelantan by train is the best way to experience the culture and traditions of the state apart from enjoying the railway journey from Singapore to Kelantan. For further information and to make reservations for this package, please visit www.malaysiarailexplorer.com.

How much are the homestay packages?
A 2-day 1-night homestay package is between RM150 and RM250 inclusive of accommodation, food and activities (the cost depends on the activities offered by the homestay operator and activities requested by tourists). A detailed cost for each package can be obtained from the official Homestay Malaysia website at www.go2homestay.com.

How do I make a reservation for a homestay?
The particulars and cost of each package can be obtained at the official website of Homestay Malaysia at www.go2homestay.com. Tourists may choose the state they wish to visit as well as the activities they wish to participate in. The map to the homestay and the information about each homestay can also be found at the website which makes it convenient for tourists to make their reservations directly.

The Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC) at Jalan Ampang is the focal point for information about tourism in Malaysia. It also provides the facility to make reservations for homestays.

"The Malaysia Rail Explorer" is a new homestay package inviting tourists to experience rural life in Kelantan by taking the train from Singapore. It is the best way to learn more about the culture and traditions of the state. Reservations for this package can be made via www.malaysiarailexplorer.com. 

A Day at Penang Hill

It was a lovely Sunday morning and we were in Penang. Shortly after breakfast at our hotel in Penang city center area, we head straight towards Penang Hill which is situated 15 minutes away. It was not my first time there but the last visit was 15 years back. Penang Hill or also known as Bukit Bendera in Malay, is a famous spot for both local and international tourists visiting the island. Most travel packages to Penang would include this place in their itinerary.

Penang Hill had just undergone a makeover in 2011 which saw the old red train being replaced by a new air-conditioned coach. Since it was still early, we managed to snap our tickets easily as there were not many visitors around. Our journey to the top took about 10 minutes from the lower station.The view at the top was absolutely stunning. Me & Mas managed to get a clear aerial view of the island and also the mainland. As we walked further, Mas saw a booth where they do henna art on your hands and she gave it a try. 

The service was similar to those available in some beauty salons. 

We did bump into a few buggies which are available to take visitors for a ride around the hill. 

Also there was a mosque and temple nearby to each other. 

One unique place that we visited while we were up there is the Owl Museum. The museum exhibits a collection of owl themed items ranging from sculptures, photos, souvenirs etc. The entrance fee was RM10. More info about the museum, check out my old post about the. 

Just before we left, we stopped by the stage area where a snake show was taking place. 3 snake charmers were playing with cobra and few other snakes. Lucky me I managed to get a good spot to take these photos. It was already noon by the time the show finishes. We head back down the hill and straight to our hotel. Overall it was a nice place to visit but if you’re going on weekends, make sure you get there early or you will be forced to line up the long queue.

by Danarif

http://www.danarif.com/blog/

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Malaysia Travel Experience

1.   A Day at Penang Hill Malaysia (by Danarif)

2.   Malaysia is the most under-rated country to travel in SEA (by Nomadic Samuel)
3.   Malaysia: Our Return Journey to Kuala Lumpur (by Flash Packer) 
4.   My 1-Month Malaysia Travel Itinerary (by Audrey)
5.   Penang or Langkawi (by Stuart McDonald) 
6.   Anyway ! I really hope you enjoy your stay around Malaysia ! (by Shazie) 
7.   Langkawi Malaysia (by Melanie) 
8.   Camerong Highlands Malaysia (by Melanie) 
9.   Legoland Malaysia - My First Trip for Year 2013 (by Diana Diane Teo) 
10. Hello Malaysia ! (by Camillie) 
12  Trip to Malaysia KL# (by Darya) 
13. Searching for Wild Orangutans in Borneo (by Amy Blyth)
14. Malaysia on a Budget: Flying to KL with Airphil Express (By Lost Boy) 
15. An Italian's Adventurous Food Trip to Malaysia (by Happysuffer) 
16. Why your kids  will love stopping in Malaysia (by Tracy Burns)
17. Top 10 Romantic Resorts in Malaysia (By Ashley Yeen) 
18. Top 10 Romantic Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur (by Genevieve Nunis)  
19. Top 10 Malaysian Destinations for a retreat get away (by Adrina)
20. Money SavingTips for Traveling in Malaysia (by Lash)
21. My top 5 dream experience on my bucket list for Malaysia (by getsetandgo)

Malaysia is the most under-rated country to travel in SouthEast Asia (By Nomadic Samuel)

I’m not going to lie – I’m absolutely in love with SE Asia.  I’ve spent over seven consecutive years abroad and I’ve covered a decent amount of territory as a backpacker and expat living overseas; however, there are a few things I’m embarrassed to admit.  I’ve yet to travel to Europe. I’ve never set foot in Africa.  Dido for Central America.  The Middle East?  I haven’t gone there yet either.  So what’s my excuse?  Southeast Asia.

Without a doubt, if I only had to travel in one region of the world for the rest of my life, I would almost certainly pick Asia.  If forced to narrow it down even further I would likely select SE Asia.  There is just so much that I absolutely love about this part of the world.  I’ve had many friends ask me which country is my favorite in the region.  I simply cannot say at this point in time.  Three years ago it was clearly Thailand; however, my tastes have changed and on my latest trip I found myself spending more time in Cambodia and Laos than ever before.

One thing I absolutely can agree on though is which country in the region I think is the most under-rated. Here’s a hint:  It’s truly Asia.  For those who didn’t guess, the answer is Malaysia.  The official tourism slogan is Malaysia – Truly Asia.  I couldn’t agree more. It’s easily one of the most under-rated travel destinations in the world.  Although Malaysia has so much to offer it’s not nearly as popular for backpackers or travelers as countries such as Thailand, Malaysia or the region of Indochina.  However, it’s most certainly a place backpackers, tourists or those seeking luxury holidays can all equally enjoy.  From the top attractions in Kuala Lumpur to the culture hubs of Malacca and Penang it has something for everyone.  Here are 5 reasons why I think it rocks!

1)  Cultural Hubs

Malaysia has two of my favorite cultural HUBs in all of SE Asia – George Town (Penang) & Melaka.  Many backpackers and travellers are familiar with George Town in Penang.  It’s a popular destination for those looking to renew their Thai tourist Visa or to continue onward southbound to Singapore or Indonesia.  For those who take their time to explore this UNESCO heritage city a wonderful selection of colonial homes and diverse cuisine await them.  Even more under-rated, in my opinion, is Melaka.  Many tourists only take the time to check out Kuala Lumpur or head straight for Singapore.  That’s a big mistake in my opinion.  Melaka offers gorgeous riverside views, a rich colonial history and very distinct neighborhoods that a treat to explore on foot or by rickshaw.

2)  Melting Pot of Cultures and Cuisines

Nowhere in South East Asia have I found such a diverse melting pot of cultures and cuisine.  For those who don’t know, Malaysia is ethnically diverse with a large Malay, Chinese, Indian and expat community.  Its rich colonial history combined with Indian, Chinese and SE Asian influences have resulted in some of the most diverse and satisfying cuisine I’ve ever tried in my entire life.

3)  Diversity in Landscape

I never realized how diverse Malaysia was until I first visited.  From gorgeous beaches such as Pulau Perhentian (Perhentian Islands) to hillside retreats such as the Cameron Highlands to exotic jungles such as Tamah Negara there is something for everyone.

4)  Best Breakfast Options in the World

I was recently conversing with a friend discussing our favorite options for breakfast.  It was then that I realized Malaysia has that corned. I’m a huge fan of dim sum which is readily available in Kuala Lumpur, Melaka and Penang.  Moreover, when I’m feeling like something else I can’t think of anything more delicious than roti canai - a type of Indian-influenced flatbread – that can be stuffed with fried bananas and dipped in curry sauce.

5)  The ability to use English when communicating with locals

Lastly, another reason I love Malaysia has to do with the fact that English can used with most locals.  Out of all the countries I’ve visited in SE Asia nowhere (aside from Singapore) can I easily communicate in English for day to day things.  Sometimes I like the challenges of not knowing or being forced to learn the local language, but in Malaysia I can get by in English and this makes travel so much convenient and easy.

How about you?  I’m curious to hear where you think the most under-rated country to travel is?

By Nomadic Samuel  http://www.nomadicsamuel.com Back to Sharing Experience Menu 

Malaysia: Our Return Journey to Kuala Lumpur (By Flashpacker John)

 (27/09/2012)

Kuala Lumpur is changing rapidly.  Or is it us?

This isn’t the first time we’ve visited Kuala Lumpur. We last spent some time here in December 2009. I don’t know whether its KL or us that has changed, but one thing that is definitely different is our budget.  If you want you can read about our 2009 Visit to Malaysia here, and see how our experience differs.

In 2009, we had a much more generous travel budget as we were both working.  We stayed in a deluxe room at Traders. We enjoyed fine dining in expensively decorated restaurants and gulped cocktails at sophisticated bars around city.  We spent our time on organised tour buses, exploring the main tourist attractions.  We ascended 3 towers, including the KL landmark Petronas Towers. This time round there are no ‘free’ golf carts to ferry us the 150m to the nearest mall, or hotel staff waiting at the entrance to greet us with bottled water and scented hand towels to mop our brows. Am I bothered?  Not in the slightest.

I wasn’t that keen on visiting Malaysia again.  Although I had enjoyed my previous stay; it was more of a desire to explore another country, a been there done that thing.  Craig made some compelling arguments about why we should return to Malaysia, he conveniently managed to omit the excellent diving on offer!  I’m glad he did, and I’m surprised to learn that we’ve spent well over a month touring around the country.

Flashpacking around KL

During this trip to Malaysia, we’ve stayed in KL on several occasions, as we’ve made use of the great transport connections available to see the rest of the country and visited Brunei. What I now know is that you can enjoy KL on a ‘flashpacking’ budget, and you don’t need to spend a lot to get around the city.  In fact, by not cocooning yourself with other tourists and just visiting the major tourist attractions you begin to understand that KL is an exciting city, with a bit of a soul!

What I love about KL is it’s so cosmopolitan. This cliché is often overused, but when you look at the diverse range of restaurants, entertainment, bars, museums and markets catering for locals and visitors from around the world, I think it’s quite appropriate.  As we’ve said before, food is of a very high standard and you can eat really cheaply here.  Like Singapore, KL is popular with visitors from all over Asia, and also has a fairly large expat community.

You can get a spacious clean room with private bathroom and air-con, tv etc for about US$20-25 in a great central location. I think you’d struggle in most major cities to get such a bargain.

Whilst visiting KL this time, we’ve relied on local buses, trains and even the monorail to transport us about the city.  The good thing about KL is walking around is one of the best ways to experience the gentle energy and friendliness of Malaysians.  Although you can’t easily walk around the entire city due to the road network, and it’s size, it’s very cheap and easy to navigate yourself to places of interest.

Our favourite places to chill are at the pavement cafes around China Town or Little India. The food is good and cheap and these places are bustling with people, so you’re never alone and will always find somebody to strike up a conversation with.

Malaysian Shopping Malls

Malaysia is shopping mall crazy. There are malls all over the country and they are very popular with Malaysians, who don’t just go there to shop or eat. It’s a place to socialise and be seen. I guess it beats sitting in a pub! However, the malls in KL are something else, stocking every brand imaginable and offering all manner of services from plastic surgery, a public exercise class or a spa massage. Our favourite mall was the Berjaya Times Square Shopping Mall, its enormous with loads of events and activities taking place.  Its  a great place to stroll and people watch.

Shopping in KL is great, and can be done cheaply at the many markets.  Most things have a price tag and negotiating is straightforward and easy.  If you don’t like bartering, then KL is the place to come and do your shopping. I’m just happy window shopping these days.

Some of the things we did in KL

We were in KL during Hari Raya, which meant that most of the museums were closed for about 3 days during part of the holiday period.  We decided to use this opportunity, to cure Craig of his ornithophobia and visit KL Bird Park.  It was a strange experience, but I think we did the trick and Craig is cured. The bad news is, I think I’m now frightened of birds.

We also visited the Batu caves, which are free to enter, it cost us 3(MYR) return to get there on the train from KL Sentral.  The caves are interesting but not amazing.  The monkeys, around the hindu temples, are hilarious stealing offerings and drinks from visitors.  There are some tasty market stalls selling all manner of sweet things – delicious!

We visited the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, which has a many artefacts from around the world and is worth a visit. The different galleries contain an eclectic mix of objects from jewellery, weapons and ceramics to architectural models of mosques.  The roof terrace was currently being renovated, and despite my best endeavours to secure access, it wasn’t possible.  However, when it does open it will offer an additional view of the KL skyline.

A journey to Kuala Lumpur doesn’t have to be a quick stopover 

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is regularly announcing new flight schedules from different flight carriers, so will continue to be a gateway for travellers from around the world.  KL isn’t just an unwanted layover destination, while you wait for your connecting flight to somewhere else.  Just make sure you give yourself time to explore the creative, modern and energetic pulse of this rapidly growing city.  The next time our journey brings us back to KL, we’ll be heading to Chinatown for a slap up meal, a couple of beers, and then maybe a bar or two. Can’t wait!

I guess its us that are changing.

By Flash Packer John   http://flashpackatforty.com Back to Sharing Experience Menu