West Virginia is one of those states that has increased their casino gambling options over the past several years. It appears as though the move towards expansion is paying off with the states tourism industry booming.
In 2008, according to the state tourism department, West Virginia generated $4.4 billion from their tourism industry. Much of that revenue was created thanks to the casino gambling resorts that the state possesses.
day travelers spent $2.1 billion on gambling and entertainment. Visitors who stayed over for the night spent $1.4 billion in 2008. All of those numbers could even increase for 2009 with gambling limits and hours of operation laws changed in the November election.
"Tourism is a big industry in West Virginia and casinos are much to thank for that," said CGW Casino Gaming Analyst Steve Schwartz, "already we have seen an increase in the gambling revenue since the laws changed, so I believe these laws will have a strong impact on the tourism figures when they come out next year."
West Virginia is just one of the states that is creating a buzz with their casino gambling industry. Pennsylvania, New York, Florida, Maryland, and many other states are also expanding their casino options.
In California, the state is considering going even further than other states. California lawmakers are discussing the possibility of legalizing and regulating online poker. If they do so, it would be the first time that online gambling would be clearly defined by any state in the US.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Dutch cabinet wants to limit foreign drug tourism
AMSTERDAM - The Dutch cabinet wants to discourage foreigners from coming to the Netherlands to buy drugs by limiting the amounts permitted to be sold and by only allowing debit card payment, the government said last week.
The Netherlands has one of Europe's most liberal soft drug policies with legal use of marijuana but some cities at the border near Belgium want to close down marijuana-selling coffee shops because they are drawing too many foreign visitors.
"Several pilots should lead to smaller, locally-focussed coffee shops. In a pilot in Limburg the bar to buy cannabis will be raised," the government said in a statement.
The province of Limburg lies in the south of the Netherlands, bordering Belgium and Germany and is close to France and Luxembourg.
"The maximum quantity of cannabis per customer will be lowered from 5 grams (0.18 oz.) to 3 grams and clients can only pay by bank card," the government said about the Limburg pilot.
Coffee shops would not be forced to ban foreign customers but the new policy plan would move to make it harder for foreigners to buy cannabis, Dutch press agency ANP reported Dutch Justice Minister Ernst Hirsch Ballin as saying.
Dutch authorities also want to cut cannabis use by citizens to reduce social and health effects such as bad school performance and to cut criminality linked to the production and trading of cannabis, the cabinet said.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Old Ft. Bayou Blueway to promote paddling and eco-tourism
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS (WLOX) - Environmental groups and government representatives gathered along Ft. Bayou Saturday morning to dedicate a new kayak and canoe trail.
The Old Ft. Bayou Blueway is a water trail that's designed to encourage local paddling sports, while also boosting tourism.
"And we welcome you to this very exciting day," said Judy Steckler with the Land Trust for the Mississippi Coastal Plain.
Dark clouds gathering over the bayou didn't deter the crowd on this dedication day. The Old Ft. Bayou Blueway is a waterway trail that's aimed at promoting paddling.
"Once Margaret Miller with the Chamber of Commerce said, 'Wouldn't it be nice if we had a way for our local people and our tourists to be able to enjoy all this great water that we have,'" said Steckler.
Several years of planning and partnerships resulted in the Ft. Bayou Blueway. The trail will encourage local kayaking and provide an opportunity for tourists to experience the beauty of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
"In time, the term blueway will be a very familiar term for our coast, for our families and for our visitors. In fact, as we celebrate today the opening of the Old Ft. Bayou Blueway, there are plans underway to designate even more in the area," said Ocean Springs Mayor Connie Moran.
The blueway follows a public waterway and provides a unique opportunity to both exercise and enjoy the view from the bayou.
"Opens up this area for public use and public access, so that residents such as you and folks from other parts of the state can come down here and enjoy our natural, scenic beauty," said Ray Carter, with the Secretary of State's office.
Nearby Gulf Hills Resort is among the businesses likely to benefit from the blueway.
"It's a whole new market. It's new business. We're going after that eco-tourism. So, now you can kayak, you can canoe, you can do everything from Gulf Hills," Resort Manager Donna Brown said.
The dedication included an opening race among government representatives and VIPs. After starting strong, Mayor Connie Moran wound up in the water after her kayak tipped over. DEQ representative Daniel Stewart crossed the finish line first.
The Old Ft. Bayou Blueway begins behind Gulf Hills Resort. It then follows the meandering waterway all the way to The Shed"restaurant off Highway 57. There are signs posted along the way, marking the route.
The Old Ft. Bayou Blueway is a water trail that's designed to encourage local paddling sports, while also boosting tourism.
"And we welcome you to this very exciting day," said Judy Steckler with the Land Trust for the Mississippi Coastal Plain.
Dark clouds gathering over the bayou didn't deter the crowd on this dedication day. The Old Ft. Bayou Blueway is a waterway trail that's aimed at promoting paddling.
"Once Margaret Miller with the Chamber of Commerce said, 'Wouldn't it be nice if we had a way for our local people and our tourists to be able to enjoy all this great water that we have,'" said Steckler.
Several years of planning and partnerships resulted in the Ft. Bayou Blueway. The trail will encourage local kayaking and provide an opportunity for tourists to experience the beauty of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
"In time, the term blueway will be a very familiar term for our coast, for our families and for our visitors. In fact, as we celebrate today the opening of the Old Ft. Bayou Blueway, there are plans underway to designate even more in the area," said Ocean Springs Mayor Connie Moran.
The blueway follows a public waterway and provides a unique opportunity to both exercise and enjoy the view from the bayou.
"Opens up this area for public use and public access, so that residents such as you and folks from other parts of the state can come down here and enjoy our natural, scenic beauty," said Ray Carter, with the Secretary of State's office.
Nearby Gulf Hills Resort is among the businesses likely to benefit from the blueway.
"It's a whole new market. It's new business. We're going after that eco-tourism. So, now you can kayak, you can canoe, you can do everything from Gulf Hills," Resort Manager Donna Brown said.
The dedication included an opening race among government representatives and VIPs. After starting strong, Mayor Connie Moran wound up in the water after her kayak tipped over. DEQ representative Daniel Stewart crossed the finish line first.
The Old Ft. Bayou Blueway begins behind Gulf Hills Resort. It then follows the meandering waterway all the way to The Shed"restaurant off Highway 57. There are signs posted along the way, marking the route.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Malaysia Vacation Guide Your Travel Companion
Malaysia vacation guide is the place where you will be able to find the information of the various attractions that the beautiful country of Malaysia has to offer.
Although the country is one of the fastest growing economy in Asia, many of the islands, mountains, lakes and rivers are still clean and unpolluted.
Many new and exciting programmes have being lined up by Tourism Malaysia for year 2009. See the details of the many Malaysia events that have been planned for the entire year of 2009.
Malaysia accommodation and hospitality are among the top in this region. There are many budget and 5 Star hotels that you can choose to stay during your holidays here. In general, the room rates are more expensive during the public and school holidays.
If you have the flexibility of time, use Malaysia vacation guide to plan your itinerary so as not to coincide with these days. See the Malaysia public and school holidays 2009 here and compare the Kuala Lumpur hotels rates before making your bookings.
Coming to Malaysia is easy as the international airports in Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching serve more than 40 international airlines. If you are coming from Australia, check the Malaysia Airlines deal. Compare other Cheap Flights before making your bookings.
Year 2009 will be another good year to visit Malaysia.
To our foreign visitors, Malaysia Vacation Guide wishes you "Selamat Datang" Welcome to Malaysia.
To fellow Malaysians, "Let us continue to make Malaysia Truly Asia A Memorable Experience To All Our Visitors".
Year 2009 will be another good year to visit Malaysia.
To our foreign visitors, Malaysia Vacation Guide wishes you "Selamat Datang" Welcome to Malaysia.
To fellow Malaysians, "Let us continue to make Malaysia Truly Asia A Memorable Experience To All Our Visitors".
The BEACHES
The long coastline of Peninsular Malaysia with Straits of Malacca to the west and South China Sea to the east provides many choices of beaches and islands for visitors to choose their holiday destination. Some of the beautiful islands are Redang Island, Tioman Island and Pangkor Island.
Langkawi Island is a duty free island which is more developed compared to the other islands of Peninsular Malaysia. It is also the venue of Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA).
There are many Langkawi hotels that you can choose to stay while you are here depending on your budget.
The island of Borneo where Sabah and Sarawak are located also boast of a long coastline with South China Sea to the west and Sulu Sea to the east. The world renowned Sipadan Island, a diving haven is located at the Celebes Sea to the east of Sabah.
The MOUNTAINS
The mountains of Malaysia are the places where many go to escape the heat of the day. The highlands that are developed for tourism include Cameron Highlands, Genting Highlands, Frasers Hill, and Bukit Tinggi.
As the mountains are high in altitude, the temperature varies from 16 °C to 24 °C hence an ideal place to go for a time of relaxation..
Apart from that, the greeneries and the mountainous landscapes that abound in the highlands make many nature lovers come back again. As for theme park on the mountain, there is Genting, the City of Entertainment which is located in Genting Highlands.
If you prefer to go to a less developed hill, Maxwell Hill or Bukit Larut in Taiping is the one that you can go to. There isn't any 5 star hotel here but bungalows and rest houses for accommodation.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Jared Polis criticized for "medical tourism" investment
Representative Jared Polis has staged as many if not more healthcare town halls in recent weeks than any of his Colorado congressional colleagues. But the conservative CompleteColorado.com site questions his private investment in another healthcare-related enterprise: BridgeHealth International. The company's approach is typically shorthanded as "medical tourism," a term defined as "the notion of individuals traveling abroad for care and savings" amid a "What We Do" section of its website that goes on to suggest that BridgeHealth offers many more services than this description implies.
In "What Does Polis Believe About Health Care?," author Todd Shepherd argues that Polis' investment in BridgeHealth contradicts his stand for healthcare reform in the U.S. Here's the crux of his argument:
Jared Polis has made a long-term bet on the worldwide success of health care markets that have less regulation rather than more. Draw any conclusion you like, but there is no escaping the fact that BridgeHealth does not send patients to the United Kingdom or Canada to receive their health services. In fact, assuming those two countries have a mechanism to verify the citizenship of people applying for health services, non-citizens couldn't possibly go to either country for medical tourism. Yet at the same time, it would be incorrect to conclude that Polis' company is sending patients to places like India and Mexico by default....
What will happen to "medical tourism" if a public option succeeds? Some say medical tourism will decline, assuming that when more people are "covered" by a government program, these are the very customers who will not need to travel abroad for care that is supposed to be cheaper than it is now. Others say medical tourism will skyrocket, because as the theory goes, wait times will increase, and people with cash will opt for immediate care.
Call it a conflict of interest if you like. At the very least, its a compelling revelation by one of Colorado's most savvy investors about the future of worldwide health care.
This take is clearly partisan, but that doesn't mean it's wholly lacking in substance. Medical tourism has become popular in part because facilities abroad may offer care options not yet approved in this country -- ones whose potential dangers don't bother folks with plenty of cash and a particularly grim prognosis. However, a number of less moneyed patients have discovered they can actually spend less for procedures by going overseas due to the skyrocketing price of procedures in America. So... is Polis betting that a healthcare measure either won't pass, or that it won't reign in out-of-control costs even if approved? It'd be mighty interesting to find out.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Dam tourism: Nation's highest-wattage hydroelectric wonders are in Washington
Growing up around engineers and fisheries biologists, I'm wired to go sightseeing at fish ladders, salmon-spawning creeks — and dams.
For dam tourists like me, Washington state has some of the world's biggest and most easily reachable dams strung along the Columbia River.
The vast Grand Coulee Dam straddles the river in north-central Washington. Two other dams, Chief Joseph and Rocky Reach, are close enough that it's easy to visit all three in a weekend — as I did recently. They offer free tours, visitor centers and even a museum within one dam.
The engineering side of me marvels at the dams' construction and the immense amount of electrical power they generate, "turning our darkness to dawn," as folk singer Woody Guthrie sang in 1941 in celebration of the construction of the first Columbia River dams, including Grand Coulee.
But my fisheries side laments the dams' destruction of once-mighty salmon and steelhead runs. Grand Coulee and Chief Joseph dams don't have fish ladders (which let migrating fish bypass some dams lower on the Columbia). The dams walled off the river and its upstream tributaries, turning the free-flowing river into a series of lakes that also submerged Native Americans' thousands-year-old fishing sites.
Here's how to get a close look at the dams:
Grand Coulee Dam
By the numbers: Grand Coulee is almost a mile long and one of the biggest concrete structures in the world. The dam contains about 12 million cubic yards of concrete, enough to build a 50,000-mile long sidewalk. It's the biggest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States at 6,809 megawatts (one megawatt can power roughly 1,000 homes).
Tour/visitor center:
• Free 50-minute walking tours take visitors along the top of the 550-foot-tall Grand Coulee and down a glass-enclosed exterior elevator (repaired in August after a two-month shutdown) into the cavernous Third Powerhouse for a look at the water-powered generators that make electricity. Tours run daily through October, depending on the weather, then stop for the winter and resume in late May.
• A free Laser Light Show, projected onto the surface of the dam nightly, runs through Sept. 30 (also resumes in May).
• The dam's visitor center is open year-round. Extensively updated a few years ago, exhibits show how Grand Coulee was built and makes electricity. The dam also created the 150-mile-long Lake Roosevelt, a recreational mecca in the near-desert, and provides irrigation for 600,000 acres of farmland.
Dam tip: No backpacks or purses can be taken on the tour for security reasons. And, as at most other U.S. dams, it's no longer possible to drive across the top of Grand Coulee; security was tightened after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Side trips: Take a 10-minute drive to Crown Point Vista, a bluff-top overlook that gives a sweeping view of the dam and the little town of Coulee Dam huddled at its base.
In Coulee Dam, the Colville Tribal Museum (the 1.4 million acre Colville Reservation stretches along the north side of the Columbia) is being renovated; only the gift shop is now open.
Steamboat Rock State Park, a half-hour drive south of the dam, offers scenic walks, camping and watersports.
Where to stay: The Columbia River Inn is a two-story motel with small, but comfortable rooms in Coulee Dam, across the street from the visitor center and dam (www.columbiariverinn.com or 800-633-6421).
More information: Grand Coulee Dam is run by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, www.usbr.gov/pn/grandcoulee or 509-633-9265. Phone ahead to confirm tour times in October, since tours may not run all month.
Grand Coulee Dam Area Chamber of Commerce: www.grandcouleedam.org.
Chief Joseph Dam
By the numbers: Chief Joseph Dam, 51 miles downstream from Grand Coulee Dam, is less than half its height at 236 feet and generates significantly less power — 2,614 megawatts. But it's still the second biggest hydropower producer in the United States.
What you'll see/tour: Bigger isn't always better. On Chief Joseph's free tour, visitors get a closer look at the dam's powerhouse than at Grand Coulee.
After donning hard hats and earplugs, visitors can walk onto the floor of the dam's vast powerhouse, an almost half-mile-long building where 27 generators, each the size of a small house, stretch into the distance. There's a constant throbbing hum as river water pouring through huge tubes spins the turbines below the floor. The turbines power the generators, which create enough electricity to light Everett.
AJ Jensen, a park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which runs the dam, shows visitors a generator shaft, a spinning, vertical tube of steel three feet across that connects a turbine to a generator. "You can touch it," says Jensen, as the silvery water-propelled shaft whirls 100 times a minute.
Dam tip: Scheduled hourlong tours run from late May to early September and have ended for this year. However, tours are available year-round by calling a few days ahead. Visitors must register at the entrance gate and cameras are not allowed for security reasons.
Side trip: Bridgeport State Park is a few miles upstream, with peaceful riverfront campsites and an adjoining nine-hole public golf course. The little town of Bridgeport adjacent to the dam has fallen on hard times, but a war memorial at Berryman Park contains some vintage U.S. military equipment, including a helicopter.
Where to stay: Camp in Bridgeport State Park or stay in Coulee Dam.
More information: Chief Joseph Dam, www.nws.usace.army.mil. For tour information, and to schedule a tour in the offseason, phone 509-686-5501 or 509-686-3542.
Rocky Reach Dam
By the numbers: Of the three dams, Rocky Reach is the smallest, generating 1,300 megawatts. But it's the prettiest, with grounds planted with thousands of flowers (including a red, white and blue floral U.S. flag) and trees, a welcome oasis in the near-desert.
What you'll see/tour: Rocky Reach's visitor center is open until Oct. 31, and the dam can be explored on self-guided tours. An upper floor of its powerhouse contains the Museum of the Columbia with exhibits on 19th-century pioneer life, from the pilot house of a Columbia River stern-wheeler to tales of settlers, plus displays on Native American life, including a dugout canoe.
The powerhouse's generators can be seen from a viewing area, and visitors can watch migrating salmon and steelhead swim through a fish channel that helps them bypass the dam.
Dam tip: What looks like a massive modern sculpture in the gardens is one of the original turbines from the dam.
Rocky Reach is a good place for a snack or picnic; its cafe has a flower-bedecked terrace overlooking the dam and there are picnic tables on the lawns.
Side trip: Rocky Reach Dam is 7 miles north of Wenatchee. For a taste of nature and views of the river and city, stroll in Wenatchee's hilltop Ohme Gardens (see www.ohmegardens.com).
Where to stay: Wenatchee has dozens of motels; see listings at the city's visitor bureau, www.wenatcheevalley.org.
More information: Rocky Reach is run by the Chelan County Public Utility District. 509-663-7522 or www.chelanpud.org/rocky-reach-hydro-project.html.
Kristin Jackson is a Seattle Times travel writer and editor: kjackson@seattletimes.com
For dam tourists like me, Washington state has some of the world's biggest and most easily reachable dams strung along the Columbia River.
The vast Grand Coulee Dam straddles the river in north-central Washington. Two other dams, Chief Joseph and Rocky Reach, are close enough that it's easy to visit all three in a weekend — as I did recently. They offer free tours, visitor centers and even a museum within one dam.
The engineering side of me marvels at the dams' construction and the immense amount of electrical power they generate, "turning our darkness to dawn," as folk singer Woody Guthrie sang in 1941 in celebration of the construction of the first Columbia River dams, including Grand Coulee.
But my fisheries side laments the dams' destruction of once-mighty salmon and steelhead runs. Grand Coulee and Chief Joseph dams don't have fish ladders (which let migrating fish bypass some dams lower on the Columbia). The dams walled off the river and its upstream tributaries, turning the free-flowing river into a series of lakes that also submerged Native Americans' thousands-year-old fishing sites.
Here's how to get a close look at the dams:
Grand Coulee Dam
By the numbers: Grand Coulee is almost a mile long and one of the biggest concrete structures in the world. The dam contains about 12 million cubic yards of concrete, enough to build a 50,000-mile long sidewalk. It's the biggest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States at 6,809 megawatts (one megawatt can power roughly 1,000 homes).
Tour/visitor center:
• Free 50-minute walking tours take visitors along the top of the 550-foot-tall Grand Coulee and down a glass-enclosed exterior elevator (repaired in August after a two-month shutdown) into the cavernous Third Powerhouse for a look at the water-powered generators that make electricity. Tours run daily through October, depending on the weather, then stop for the winter and resume in late May.
• A free Laser Light Show, projected onto the surface of the dam nightly, runs through Sept. 30 (also resumes in May).
• The dam's visitor center is open year-round. Extensively updated a few years ago, exhibits show how Grand Coulee was built and makes electricity. The dam also created the 150-mile-long Lake Roosevelt, a recreational mecca in the near-desert, and provides irrigation for 600,000 acres of farmland.
Dam tip: No backpacks or purses can be taken on the tour for security reasons. And, as at most other U.S. dams, it's no longer possible to drive across the top of Grand Coulee; security was tightened after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Side trips: Take a 10-minute drive to Crown Point Vista, a bluff-top overlook that gives a sweeping view of the dam and the little town of Coulee Dam huddled at its base.
In Coulee Dam, the Colville Tribal Museum (the 1.4 million acre Colville Reservation stretches along the north side of the Columbia) is being renovated; only the gift shop is now open.
Steamboat Rock State Park, a half-hour drive south of the dam, offers scenic walks, camping and watersports.
Where to stay: The Columbia River Inn is a two-story motel with small, but comfortable rooms in Coulee Dam, across the street from the visitor center and dam (www.columbiariverinn.com or 800-633-6421).
More information: Grand Coulee Dam is run by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, www.usbr.gov/pn/grandcoulee or 509-633-9265. Phone ahead to confirm tour times in October, since tours may not run all month.
Grand Coulee Dam Area Chamber of Commerce: www.grandcouleedam.org.
Chief Joseph Dam
By the numbers: Chief Joseph Dam, 51 miles downstream from Grand Coulee Dam, is less than half its height at 236 feet and generates significantly less power — 2,614 megawatts. But it's still the second biggest hydropower producer in the United States.
What you'll see/tour: Bigger isn't always better. On Chief Joseph's free tour, visitors get a closer look at the dam's powerhouse than at Grand Coulee.
After donning hard hats and earplugs, visitors can walk onto the floor of the dam's vast powerhouse, an almost half-mile-long building where 27 generators, each the size of a small house, stretch into the distance. There's a constant throbbing hum as river water pouring through huge tubes spins the turbines below the floor. The turbines power the generators, which create enough electricity to light Everett.
AJ Jensen, a park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which runs the dam, shows visitors a generator shaft, a spinning, vertical tube of steel three feet across that connects a turbine to a generator. "You can touch it," says Jensen, as the silvery water-propelled shaft whirls 100 times a minute.
Dam tip: Scheduled hourlong tours run from late May to early September and have ended for this year. However, tours are available year-round by calling a few days ahead. Visitors must register at the entrance gate and cameras are not allowed for security reasons.
Side trip: Bridgeport State Park is a few miles upstream, with peaceful riverfront campsites and an adjoining nine-hole public golf course. The little town of Bridgeport adjacent to the dam has fallen on hard times, but a war memorial at Berryman Park contains some vintage U.S. military equipment, including a helicopter.
Where to stay: Camp in Bridgeport State Park or stay in Coulee Dam.
More information: Chief Joseph Dam, www.nws.usace.army.mil. For tour information, and to schedule a tour in the offseason, phone 509-686-5501 or 509-686-3542.
Rocky Reach Dam
By the numbers: Of the three dams, Rocky Reach is the smallest, generating 1,300 megawatts. But it's the prettiest, with grounds planted with thousands of flowers (including a red, white and blue floral U.S. flag) and trees, a welcome oasis in the near-desert.
What you'll see/tour: Rocky Reach's visitor center is open until Oct. 31, and the dam can be explored on self-guided tours. An upper floor of its powerhouse contains the Museum of the Columbia with exhibits on 19th-century pioneer life, from the pilot house of a Columbia River stern-wheeler to tales of settlers, plus displays on Native American life, including a dugout canoe.
The powerhouse's generators can be seen from a viewing area, and visitors can watch migrating salmon and steelhead swim through a fish channel that helps them bypass the dam.
Dam tip: What looks like a massive modern sculpture in the gardens is one of the original turbines from the dam.
Rocky Reach is a good place for a snack or picnic; its cafe has a flower-bedecked terrace overlooking the dam and there are picnic tables on the lawns.
Side trip: Rocky Reach Dam is 7 miles north of Wenatchee. For a taste of nature and views of the river and city, stroll in Wenatchee's hilltop Ohme Gardens (see www.ohmegardens.com).
Where to stay: Wenatchee has dozens of motels; see listings at the city's visitor bureau, www.wenatcheevalley.org.
More information: Rocky Reach is run by the Chelan County Public Utility District. 509-663-7522 or www.chelanpud.org/rocky-reach-hydro-project.html.
Kristin Jackson is a Seattle Times travel writer and editor: kjackson@seattletimes.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
House rebukes Wilson for outburst
The U.S. House has voted to admonish South Carolina Rep. Joe Wilson over his "You lie" outburst to President Barack Obama during the president's health care speech to Congress last week.
The 240-179 vote on the resolution of disapproval reflected the sharp partisan divide over the issue. Democrats insisted that Wilson take responsibility for what they said was a serious breach of decorum.
Republicans characterized the vote as a political stunt.
Wilson's outburst sparked a strong reaction from some folks, who say they will no longer travel to South Carolina because of it.
It's another public relations blow to a tourism industry that was already struggling from the recession.
It was not lost on some people that a white South Carolina congressman accused the nation's first black president of being a liar.
After Wilson's outburst, tourism leaders say they received hundreds of calls and e-mails.
"Most Americans won't judge an entire state based on one person's comments singly, but it's not the kind of publicity we're looking for," said Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce president Brad Dean.
Dean says after Wilson apologized to the president, the calls dropped off and he doesn't expect any long term impact on tourism.
Most tourists NewsChannel 15 talked to say Wilson's outburst wouldn't effect their decision to visit the state.
"It wouldn't, no, for me coming back. It wouldn't hinder that," said Kevin Akers of Roanoke, Virginia.
"Myrtle Beach is comprised of a lot of different people. That was just one person," said Chris Siddall of Ackworth, Georgia.
But some tourists told us they understand how others may look at it differently.
"I can see it being an issue for some people, yeah," said Graham Catto of Aberdeen, Scotland.
In a state still struggling with its past, where the Confederate flag is considered by some to be an unsettled issue, Wilson's comment could be seen as fitting into a pattern.
But tourism officials say, they don't think travelers will think of those things when they decide where to go on vacation.
"Most people that come here come because of the beautiful beaches and all we have to offer and they don't let one particular politician's viewpoints impact them," Dean said.
A USA Today/Gallup poll showed 68 percent of Americans said they "oppose what Joe Wilson did during the speech."
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Frankfurt - Other areas of interest
Frankfurt is one of the oldest trade fair venues in the world, receiving imperial authorisation from Emperor Friedrich II in 1240. Today the trade fair stages 50 exhibitions and trade fairs every year that draw a total of around 40,000 exhibitors and more than 1.5 million visitors. Frankfurt is the traditional home of the largest consumer goods trade fairs in the world and also specialises in technology and textile fairs.
Ambiente
The Ambiente exhibition is the international flagship trade fair for "dining, living and giving" and every year attracts some 140,000 trade visitors from almost 90 countries to Frankfurt. In an area of more than 190,000m² over 4,500 exhibitors showcase interior decorations, tableware, gift items, furnishings and other accessories for individualising living spaces.
Automechanika
Automechanika is the international flagship trade fair for vehicle parts and accessories. It takes place every two years in autumn and welcomes more than 160,000 visitors and around 4,500 exhibitors from 72 countries. As well as international representatives from trade and industry it also attracts many of the people who run Germany's workshops and garages. 91% of all visitors are from the trade.
Frankfurt Book Fair
Frankfurt Book Fair runs for five days and showcases books, comics, magazines, newspapers, maps, calendars and art. Every October more than 7,200 individual exhibitors from 101 countries gather together to present their wares to around 280,000 visitors. There is also an extensive accompanying programme including one-off exhibitions, cultural events and specialist information events.
Grim Forecast for Local Tourism Industry
COTTSDALE - Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Arizona -- and we are about to head into peak season.
The President of the Valley Hotel and Resort Associations says tourism is still struggling. The industry is still hurt by businesses reluctant to spend money, and families who just don't have the money to vacation this year.
"Total travel spending in Arizona is $18.5 billion. That's $51 million into our economy every day, so you think about that. That's a lot of money," says Debbie Johnson.
Fewer people are coming to visit our state. That hurts not only the people who own hotels and resorts -- but the thousands of people who work there.
Leisure travel has slowed in the last year. And businesses aren't booking as many conventions and meetings. Mia, a banquet worker at Westin Kierland in Scottsdale, says her bottom line has been hurting. When her hours get cut back, and she loses her full-time status, she's also losing her benefits.
The Valley Resort and Hotel Association says occupancy rates are down 15 percent, and revenue from hotel rooms are down 28 percent.
The peak season for Arizona tourism is January, February and March, but it actually begins next month -- October, when temperatures start going down.
Hotels and resorts are hoping the golfers, the business meetings, and families start booking Arizona again.
$2.6 billion from the tourism industry goes to Arizona in tax revenues.
The President of the Valley Hotel and Resort Associations says tourism is still struggling. The industry is still hurt by businesses reluctant to spend money, and families who just don't have the money to vacation this year.
"Total travel spending in Arizona is $18.5 billion. That's $51 million into our economy every day, so you think about that. That's a lot of money," says Debbie Johnson.
Fewer people are coming to visit our state. That hurts not only the people who own hotels and resorts -- but the thousands of people who work there.
Leisure travel has slowed in the last year. And businesses aren't booking as many conventions and meetings. Mia, a banquet worker at Westin Kierland in Scottsdale, says her bottom line has been hurting. When her hours get cut back, and she loses her full-time status, she's also losing her benefits.
The Valley Resort and Hotel Association says occupancy rates are down 15 percent, and revenue from hotel rooms are down 28 percent.
The peak season for Arizona tourism is January, February and March, but it actually begins next month -- October, when temperatures start going down.
Hotels and resorts are hoping the golfers, the business meetings, and families start booking Arizona again.
$2.6 billion from the tourism industry goes to Arizona in tax revenues.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Ads pushing tourism take an odd turn
For the last several years, the big problem for the Illinois Bureau of Tourism, as well as similar offices in several nearby states, has been trying to pull focus from the incredibly well-done "Pure Michigan" tourism campaign, which continues to do a wonderful job of selling Michigan in a very emotional way.
The tourism bureau and its ad agency JWT/Chicago haven't, to date, come up with a campaign that comes close to matching the power of "Pure Michigan." The newest Illinois tourism campaign set to break today isn't the equal of the Michigan work, either. But it probably will leave people scratching their heads, which may not be an altogether bad thing. At least if people are curious, they may be compelled to explore further what Illinois has to offer tourists, and that's half the battle right there.
The campaign is pegged to the newly coined word "fallfillment," which we're not wild about. Still, it does make clear this is a seasonal tourism ad campaign with the new tagline, "Fall. It's more fallfilling in Illinois." And there's a new Web site for the campaign at www.fallfillment.com.
Just how "fallfilling" Illinois may be is up to tourists to discover for themselves, but the ad campaign itself is really more surreal than anything else. How else to describe 5-second TV commercials like one that shows dolphins jumping over an autumn-leaves-strewn road or another in which a statue of Abe Lincoln attempts to pluck apples from a tree. If those executions don't strike viewers as odd enough, maybe Herman Munster sipping wine from a goblet will do the trick.
Weird and attention-grabbing though the TV spots may be, it's hard to tell exactly what tourist destinations in Illinois the ad imagery is promoting. We finally realized the dolphins are tied to the Shedd Aquarium, while we had to ask Jan Kostner, deputy director of the Illinois Bureau of Tourism, about the Munster character, who is part of a Six Flags Great America attraction. All of the fallfillment TV spots are in bright color, however, which is an improvement over previous black-and-white Illinois tourism commercials that, to us, always seemed a bit glum.
The tourism bureau and its ad agency JWT/Chicago haven't, to date, come up with a campaign that comes close to matching the power of "Pure Michigan." The newest Illinois tourism campaign set to break today isn't the equal of the Michigan work, either. But it probably will leave people scratching their heads, which may not be an altogether bad thing. At least if people are curious, they may be compelled to explore further what Illinois has to offer tourists, and that's half the battle right there.
The campaign is pegged to the newly coined word "fallfillment," which we're not wild about. Still, it does make clear this is a seasonal tourism ad campaign with the new tagline, "Fall. It's more fallfilling in Illinois." And there's a new Web site for the campaign at www.fallfillment.com.
Just how "fallfilling" Illinois may be is up to tourists to discover for themselves, but the ad campaign itself is really more surreal than anything else. How else to describe 5-second TV commercials like one that shows dolphins jumping over an autumn-leaves-strewn road or another in which a statue of Abe Lincoln attempts to pluck apples from a tree. If those executions don't strike viewers as odd enough, maybe Herman Munster sipping wine from a goblet will do the trick.
Weird and attention-grabbing though the TV spots may be, it's hard to tell exactly what tourist destinations in Illinois the ad imagery is promoting. We finally realized the dolphins are tied to the Shedd Aquarium, while we had to ask Jan Kostner, deputy director of the Illinois Bureau of Tourism, about the Munster character, who is part of a Six Flags Great America attraction. All of the fallfillment TV spots are in bright color, however, which is an improvement over previous black-and-white Illinois tourism commercials that, to us, always seemed a bit glum.
malaysia history
Situated in the heart of Southeast Asia at one of the world's major crossroads, Malaysia has always been pivotal to trade routes from Europe, the Orient, India and China. Its warm tropical climate and abundant natural blessings made it a congenial destination for immigrants as early as 5,000 years ago when the ancestors of the Orang Asli, the indigenous peoples of Peninsular Malaysia, settle here, probably the pioneers of a general movement from China and Tibet. They were followed by the Malays, who brought with them skills in farming and the use of metals. Around the first century BC, strong trading links were established with China and India, and these had a major impact on the culture, language and social customs of the country. Evidence of a Hindu-Buddhist period in the history of Malaysia can today be found in the temple sites of the Bujang Valley and Merbok Estuary in Kedah in the north west of Peninsular Malaysia, near the Thai border. The spread of Islam, introduced by Arab and Indian traders, brought the Hindu-Buddhist era to an end by the 13th century. With the conversion of the Malay-Hindu rulers of the Melaka Sultanate (the Malay kingdom which ruled both side of the Straits of Malaka for over a hundred years),, Islam was established as the religion of the Malays, and had profound effect on Malay society.
The arrival of Europeans in Malaysia brought a dramatic change to the country. In 1511, the Portuguese captured Malaka and the rulers of the Melaka Sultanate fled south to Johor where they tried to establish a new kingdom. They were resisted not only by the Europeans but by the Acehnese, Minangkabau and the Bugis, resulting in the sovereign units of the present-day states of Peninsular Malaysia. The Portuguese were in turn defeated in 1641 by the Dutch, who colonized Melaka until the advent of the British in the Dutch exerted any profound influence on Malay society. The British acquired Melaka from the Dutch in 1824 in exchange for Bencoolen in Sumatra. From their new bases in Malaka, Penang and Singapore, collectively known as the Straits settlements, the British, through their influence and power, began the process of political intergration of the Malay states of Peninsular Malaysia.
After World War II and the Japanese occupation from 1941-45, the British created the Malayan Union 1946.This was abandoned in 1948 and the Federation of Malaya emerged in its place. The Federation gained its independence from Britain on 31 August 1957.In September 1963, Malaya, Sarawak, Sabah, and initially Singapore united to form Malaysia, a country whose potpourri of society and customs derives from its rich heritage from four of the world's major cultures - Chinese, Indian, Islamic and Western.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Washington Digest: Senate passes tourism promotion bill
WASHINGTON -- The Senate voted last week to create a nonprofit corporation that would market the United States as a tourist destination for travelers around the world.
Senators voted 79-19 for Travel Promotion Act of 2009, their first substantive vote after returning from summer recess.
Sponsors said the corporation, a public-private partnership, would snare the United States a larger share of international visitors through coordinated advertising campaigns. They said the promotions would produce an estimated $4 billion in benefits and create nearly 40,000 jobs.
U.S. tourism, a leading industry in virtually ever state, has lost about 20 percent of the international market since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, according to Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.
"All of the data tells us that in the last nine years, global travel has increased by 56 million more people... and that during the same time, the United States has actually had 633,000 fewer overseas visitors," said Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.
The bill authorized $10 million in startup funds. In future years, it would authorize the government to match up to $100 million a year in private contributions. The government's share would come from a $10 fee levied on foreign travelers as they enter the United States.
Opponents challenged the need for a new government body, and the idea of a $10 fee on tourists.
"Now there is a way to attract more visitors: Charge them for coming here," said Sen. Jon Kyl. R-Ariz. He added the European Union and other nations may retaliate against Americans traveling overseas.
Sens. John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison, both R-Texas, voted against the bill, as did Sens. Tom Coburn and James Inhofe, both R-Okla.
Chesapeake Bay restoration approved
The House voted 311-107 to set aside an open-ended amount of funding to renew programs to restore the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
The National Park Service would be authorized to continue awarding grants for efforts in six states to promote wetlands conservation, create historic sites and nature trails in the estuary that has been stressed by pollution.
The program has been authorized to spend $3 million annually since it was created in 1998. The new bill removes the cap on funding, allowing lawmakers to set limits for each year.
Supporters said the bill would help sustain a natural resource treasure. Critics said support should not be open-ended.
Rep. Doc Hastings, R-Wash., said programs typically are renewed for five years at a time to ensure that managers remain accountable.
"I don't believe....this Congress should be in the habit of granting eternal life and unlimited sums of money to government programs," he said.
Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., said the purpose of the permanent extension "is to avoid having to return to Congress every 5 years to get new legislation for what is, by all measures, a successful program."
Senators voted 79-19 for Travel Promotion Act of 2009, their first substantive vote after returning from summer recess.
Sponsors said the corporation, a public-private partnership, would snare the United States a larger share of international visitors through coordinated advertising campaigns. They said the promotions would produce an estimated $4 billion in benefits and create nearly 40,000 jobs.
U.S. tourism, a leading industry in virtually ever state, has lost about 20 percent of the international market since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, according to Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.
"All of the data tells us that in the last nine years, global travel has increased by 56 million more people... and that during the same time, the United States has actually had 633,000 fewer overseas visitors," said Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.
The bill authorized $10 million in startup funds. In future years, it would authorize the government to match up to $100 million a year in private contributions. The government's share would come from a $10 fee levied on foreign travelers as they enter the United States.
Opponents challenged the need for a new government body, and the idea of a $10 fee on tourists.
"Now there is a way to attract more visitors: Charge them for coming here," said Sen. Jon Kyl. R-Ariz. He added the European Union and other nations may retaliate against Americans traveling overseas.
Sens. John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison, both R-Texas, voted against the bill, as did Sens. Tom Coburn and James Inhofe, both R-Okla.
Chesapeake Bay restoration approved
The House voted 311-107 to set aside an open-ended amount of funding to renew programs to restore the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
The National Park Service would be authorized to continue awarding grants for efforts in six states to promote wetlands conservation, create historic sites and nature trails in the estuary that has been stressed by pollution.
The program has been authorized to spend $3 million annually since it was created in 1998. The new bill removes the cap on funding, allowing lawmakers to set limits for each year.
Supporters said the bill would help sustain a natural resource treasure. Critics said support should not be open-ended.
Rep. Doc Hastings, R-Wash., said programs typically are renewed for five years at a time to ensure that managers remain accountable.
"I don't believe....this Congress should be in the habit of granting eternal life and unlimited sums of money to government programs," he said.
Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., said the purpose of the permanent extension "is to avoid having to return to Congress every 5 years to get new legislation for what is, by all measures, a successful program."
Oregon Coast Second Summer Begins
(Oregon Coast) - It's called the coast's "Second Summer," although many in the region sometimes consider it their main summer of the year. It's still a bit of a secret to fans of the beaches, but September and early October are generally the warmest time of the year on the coast.
Thanks to a serendipitous interaction of warmer waters, cooler temperatures inland (decreasing the differences in temperatures between the valley and the coast) and more eastern winds, you have an almost tropical vibe to the coast during those weeks. July and August temperatures tend to be pretty high still, but you can count on regular highs in early fall more often. By mid-October, the coast starts to turn to its more tempestuous reputation.
This time is a favorite with regulars for a number of reasons, and not just the warmer winds. The waters are warmer, the kids are in school (so there are less crowds) and lodging prices really begin to dip.
Sunsets can be especially vibrant on these Indian summer nights.
That depends on where you are, however. As a rule, Seaside is still so popular throughout September that prices don't begin to fall until October. In places like Astoria or Lincoln Ctiy, you'll start to see some drops immediately after Labor Day. By mid October, some of these drops can be quite dramatic. By early winter - usually November - more expensive lodgings that are normally in the $200 range can often drop in half. But the less expensive the lodging, the less it will drop in price.
But in the end, what matters most is that it’s warmer, and so are the waters off the coast. It's a grand time to go splashing in the surf - or at least goofing around the coast and its restaurants and bouncing its almost tropical beaches (at least this time of the year).
UK Travel Agents Select Dubai For Educational Workshop
A group of 45 travel agents from Kuoni UK, one of the leading travel organizations in the world, are currently in Dubai for an educational workshop that is projected to boost further tourism to Dubai from the UK according to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
"The UK is one of Dubai's strongest tourism origin markets and the leading source market from Europe with hotel establishment guests topping the 300,000 mark in 2000," said DTCM Director General, Khalid A. “The UK is one of Dubai's strongest tourism origin markets and the leading source market from Europe with hotel establishment guests topping the 300,000 mark in 2000,” said DTCM Director General, Khalid A. bin Sulayem. bin Sulayem.
He noted that such educational workshops help in creating Dubai specialists in key markets. He noted that such educational workshops help in creating Dubai specialists in key markets. The DTCM backed the Kuoni educational workshop in Dubai
by providing a speaker who welcomed the delegates and briefed them about Dubai's attractions. The DTCM backed the Kuoni educational workshop in Dubai by providing a speaker who welcomed the delegates and briefed them about Dubai's attractions.
Speaking to the British travel trade, DTCM Manager Missions, Hamad bin Mejren remarked, "We have strong ties with the UK travel industry and have been co-operating with them for several years now." Speaking to the British travel trade, DTCM Manager Missions, Hamad bin Mejren remarked, “We have strong ties with the UK travel industry and have been co-operating with them for several years now.”
Mr.Mejren added, "There are currently 91 tour operators from the UK offering packages to the emirate and we are confident that your personal experience of the destination over the next few days will be enough to convince you that Dubai has what it takes to become popular with British tourists.
Kuoni UK is regarded as the leader in the UK long-haul holiday market. In addition to their core tour operation, they run several independent business units for specialist activities. In addition to their core tour operation, they run several independent business units for specialist activities.
Mr. Mr. Mejren reassured the British travel trade of Dubai's commitment to the development of tourism and said, "We will continue to support you through our marketing activities in the UK and by constantly improving and enhancing the facilities, attractions and services that Dubai offers to visitors from the UK. " Mejren reassured the British travel trade of Dubai's commitment to the development of tourism and said, “We will continue to support you through our marketing activities in the UK and by constantly improving and enhancing the facilities, attractions and services that Dubai offers to visitors from the UK.”
The department of tourism led the largest ever Dubai travel trade delegation to participate at the recently concluded World Travel Market in London to convey a positive "business as usual" message to the British travel industry. The department of tourism led the largest ever Dubai travel trade delegation to participate at the recently concluded World Travel Market in London to convey a positive “business as usual” message to the British travel industry.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
ferry & cruises
Modern ferry services are offered from the mainland to major islands such as Penang and Langkawi in Peninsular Malaysia. Regular boat services are also available to Pangkor Island and the Mersing-Tioman Island routes. In addition, longboat service is available from Labuan to mainland Sabah in Malaysian Borneo.
Port Klang , situated about 41 km from Kuala Lumpur, is the main port of call for cruise liners.
Take a cruise and be enthralled with the host of fascinating destinations along the coastline. You can find some of the world's best cruise ships operating in Malaysian waters, all offering the comforts and facilities of a luxury hotel while traversing the sea.
The choice is ultimately yours, whether you immerse yourself in the whole host of activities offered or just sit back, relax and absorb the serenity of Malaysia's waters. Parents can revel in peace and quiet, while the cruiseliners entertain the children with a variety of fun activities.
These reputable cruises ensures visitors a safe, comfortable and unforgettable journey.
Malaysia Festivals
Hari Raya Aidil Adha: January 2008
Hari Raya Aidil Adha marks the conclusion of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. It is celebrated on the 10th day of Zulhijjah, the 12th month of the Muslim calendar. The day starts with prayers in mosques and is followed by the offering of cattle or goats to the needy.
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Thaipusam: January 2008
This spectacular festival occurs in late January or early February and is a celebration of Lord Subramaniam. On the eve of the festival, a statue of the Lord is taken on procession in a chariot drawn by bullocks. The next day, devotees carry 'kavadis' through Hindu temples amidst chanting and drumming. A kavadi is a metal or wooden arch with elaborate decorations, which is placed on the devotee's shoulders. Hooks or spikes from the kavadi are pierced into parts of the devotee's body. The festival is celebrated on a large scale in Penang, Selangor and Perak.
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Chinese New Year in Malaysia : February 2008
Chinese New Year is celebrated over a period of 15 days, beginning from the 1st day of the Chinese lunar calendar. It is a joyous occasion marked by family reunions, giving of red packets, or 'ang pows,' by parents to children or among relatives. This practice, coupled with the giving away of mandarin oranges, is a symbol of prosperity and good luck for the recipients. Another highlight is the traditional lion dance.
The Chinese New Year tradition is said to have originated hundreds of years ago when villagers in a province in China were tormented by a dragon. To scare it away, they decorated the village in bright red and lit firecrackers. As time passed, the coming of spring was incorporated into the celebration, hence the name 'New Year,' signifying the birth of new things.
The Chinese New Year is one of the biggest celebrations in Malaysia. Falling on a month or so behind the western calendar, this festival is celebrated with pomp, grandeur and ceremony for almost 15 days. Decorations in most Chinese homes include young blossoms of cherries, plums and bamboo, which symbolizes rebirth as well as flexibility and endurance. The New Year is seen as a time of abundant food. The variety and amount of food prepared tops any other holiday time. Among the delicacies prepared are 'nian gao', a sweet glutinous rice pudding, crispy love letters made from a batter, steamed wheat bread called 'man tou' and little meat dumplings.
The Lunar New Year is also a time for families to get together. A unique Malaysian contribution to the local Chinese culture is the 'lau yee sang,' an exotic dish made up of raw fish, vegetables and colored noodles. Often, the gathered family mixes and tosses this dish before consuming it, as a symbol of unity and joy.
Children have a wonderful time collecting their bounties in the form of 'ang pow,' or red packets holding monetary presents. Chinese elders usually hand these packets out to younger family members and visiting friends. The mandatory lighting of fireworks and firecrackers bring about fun and laughter to both the young and elderly. Thrilling lion dance performances can be observed at homes, office buildings and shopping complexes. The 'lion' is believed to bring good luck and prosperity with it wherever it goes.The celebrations go on for 15 days, during which prayers are held and offerings of food and incense are made to the gods and dead ancestors. The celebrations culminate with the 'Chap Goh Mei' festival on the 15th day when colorful lanterns are lit and unmarried women throw oranges into the sea to invoke blessings in seeking good husbands. As with most festivals in Malaysia , people of all races visit their Chinese friends during this season to convey their good wishes. Open houses are also held by many families, who open their homes to friends and loved ones.
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Prophet Mohammed's Birthday: April 2008
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad, celebrated on the 12th of the month of Rabiulawal, is another important occasion in the Muslim calendar. It is marked by special prayers and sermons in mosques, followed by processions and feasts.
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Wesak Day: May 2008
Lord Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death are celebrated through various events, including the release of caged birds to symbolize the freeing of captive souls. Most Buddhists observe a vegetarian diet on this day and in some towns, like Penang, a procession takes place at night.
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Pesta Ka'amatan: May 2008
The best time to visit Sabah and experience this occasion is from May 30th to 31st, when the Kadazan and Dusun communities offer thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. Highlights include a beauty pageant, cultural dances and rituals that culminate in the Thanksgiving ceremony performed by the 'Bobohizan,' or high priestess.
With a wealth of ethnic groups, the states of Sabah and Sarawak have an outstanding diversity of culture. The biggest ethnic group in Sabah, the Kadazan-Dusun, celebrates the padi harvesting festival (the Tadau Ka'amatan) in May. Tadau Ka'amatan is the most important celebration in the lives of this ancient tribe of Sabah. This festival, which spans the entire month of May, is an offer of thanksgiving to the rice spirits (Bambarayon) for a bountiful harvest. The highlight of this harvest festival is a dance performed by the high priestess (Bobolian) in search of the rice spirits, whose presence is vital for a fruitful harvest. Much fun and excitement take place and merry makers indulge in dancing, feasting, and drinking of a potent wine called 'tapai,' buffalo racing and arm wrestling. The festivities end with the crowning of the Harvest Queen.
Similar to the Tadau Ka'amatan, Gawai Dayak is Sarawak's version of the same festival. The Iban tribe, along with the Orang Ulu and Bidayuh, celebrate this festival at the beginning of June. It marks the end of the rice harvest and is a resting period from the toils of the fields as well as a thanksgiving ceremony to the gods for a bountiful harvest. The festival also seeks the blessings of the spirits to ensure a fruitful harvest the following year. Huge banquets of traditional food are prepared and 'tuak,' a potent rice wine and a must at the festivities, is brewed. Urban folk return to their ancestral villages to take part in the merry making and rituals. Visitors are welcome to join in the feasting and dancing and watch the exotic cultural festivities. This exciting period also provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to gain an insight to life at the longhouse. This party mood prevails throughout the month of June, providing ample time and occasion for the people to revel in continuous celebration.
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Colors of Malaysia: May 2008
Occurring throughout Malaysia, the 'Colors of Malaysia' is an entire month of culture, craft and cuisine. It brings together activities, exhibitions and events that showcase the best of Malaysia. Join in the festivities as the month kicks off with a parade as well as dance and music performances. Food festivals and cultural exhibitions are also held throughout the country. The highlight is a spectacular parade bearing the theme 'Citrawarna Malaysia,' or 'Colors of Malaysia,' held in Kuala Lumpur.
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Dragon Boat Festival: June 2008
The month of June sees the colorful and reverberating Dragon Boat festival in the states of Penang and Malacca. Also known as the Double Fifth Festival, it takes place on the fifth day of the fifth moon of the lunar calendar and is deemed one of the three most important Chinese festivals. This summer festival tells of a favored Chinese scholar named Chu Yuan who served the King of Chu many centuries back. Falling victim to his jealous rivals, he fell out of favor with the king and unable to regain the King's confidence, drowned himself in a river in the Hunan Province . Recognizing his true nobility, the people in the area rushed out in their boats in a vain attempt to rescue him. This unsuccessful attempt is apart of what the Dragon Boat festival commemorates each year with the racing of the Dragon Boats.
The boats feature the head and tail of a dragon, a mythological creature believed to rule the waters. Once affixed to the boats, a Taoist priest performs rituals accompanied by the burning of incense and firecrackers to bring the boats to 'life.' These rituals are also done to cast away any evil spirits lurking about to ruin the festivities. As an offering to the dead scholar, villagers in the early days made offerings of rice stuffed in bamboo sections and threw them into the rivers. This custom has evolved to the present day tradition where rice stuffed with various delicacies like vegetables, nuts, beans and ham are turned into dumplings called Tzungtzu and eaten during the festival. The race is a colorful and joyous event greatly enjoyed by all. Enthusiastic spectators cheer as the race kicks off with the slow beating of drums, which increase steadily to end in a frenzied crescendo as the boats speed across the finish line.
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Gawai Dayak: June 2008
This annual Sarawak Dayak festival is celebrated in early June and marks the end of the rice-harvesting season. To prepare for the festival, Dayaks clean their homes and the graves of their ancestors. On the festival's eve, family members attend a reunion during which the youngest member offers a plate of specially prepared food to his parents. Tuak, or rice wine, is served to all and dancing is part of the merry-making. Attired in their finest, the Dayaks offer sacrifices of livestock in return for a good harvest. Other events that take place are war dances, cockfights and blowpipe contests.
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Mega Sale Carnival: June-September 2008
Shop until you drop at the Mega Sale Carnival! This extravaganza is held once a year and offers an exciting range of merchandise and a host of bargains at shopping centers nationwide. Check out the branded items, fashion wear, sportswear, leather products, perfumes, jewelry, ethnic crafts, collectibles, IT products, and other tempting buys.
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Hungry Ghost Festival: August 2008
If witches and devils visit our realm on All Hallows Eve, their fearsome counterparts make their trips to this region during the Hungry Ghost Festival. Each year, during the 7th month in the Chinese lunar calendar, the Chinese community in a sense of reverence and apprehension celebrates this festival.
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Merdeka Eve Celebration: August 2008
Join in the fun on the eve of the anniversary of Malaysia's national day. A carnival-like atmosphere pervades on this night of mesmerizing dances, dazzling colorful fireworks display and performances by local artists, culminating in the Merdeka countdown for the raising of the Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian Flag) at the stroke of midnight amidst the hearty shouts of "merdeka."
Malaysia's national day on August 31st is celebrated on a grand scale with colorful parades, stage shows, and competitions at major towns throughout the country.
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Lantern and Mooncake Festival: September 2008
The Moon Cake Festival takes place on the 15th day in the eight lunar month. Its popularity stems from the various reasons it is celebrated for, which explains how the festival came to be known simultaneously as 'Zhong Qiu Jive' or Mid- Autumn Festival and Lantern Festival.
A legend, which can be traced to 2000 B.C, speaks of ten suns circling the earth, each taking its turn to nourish the earth. When suddenly all 10 suns appeared concurrently, the reigning emperor summoned Hour Yi a skilled archer from his imperial army, to obliterate nine of the suns. Impressed by his achievement, the Goddess of the Western Heaven asked Hou Yi to build her a jade palace. For this, she gifted him the elixir of immortality. The gift fell into the hands of his wife, Chang Oh and upon consuming, she was banished to the moon. It is Chang Oh's beauty that is said to heighten the radiance of the mid-autumn moon. A different version of this legend says that Hou Yi became emperor after his feat but success turned him into a tyrant. He desired to rule forever and to attain this goal he acquired the elixir of life. To avert disaster, his wife consumed the elixir herself and floated off to the moon.
The Moon Cake Festival took on a fresh meaning in the 14th century, when one Zhu Yuan Zhang overthrew the ruling Mongolian Yuan Dynasty. He and his rebels spread their propaganda by hiding messages in the moon cakes. They used the lantern procession and the tradition of exchanging moon cakes to aid their mission. The plot paid off and the Yuan dynasty was ousted. Zhu Yuan Zhang then became the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty and is still revered today for his achievement in overthrowing the Mongolians. The lantern displays and processions held in conjunction with the Moon Cake Festival commemorate this honor.
The Mid Autumn festival celebrates romance as well. The luminous light of the full, circular moon also signifies lovers seeking unity. In addition, the festival is said to honor the birth of the Earth God, to whom the farming community gives thanks for the bounties reaped.
In Malaysia and parts of the world with a significant resident Chinese community, a wide array of moon cakes can be found during this period in Asian markets and bakeries. It's common in Malaysia to see children of all races joyfully participating in lantern competitions and processions. In the same tradition, moon cakes and goodies are shared around with non-Chinese work mates and friends in a spirit of unity and happiness synonymous with the Moon Cake Festival.
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Deepavali: October 2008
For the Hindu community in Malaysia and around the world, the 'Deepavali' or 'Diwali' marks one of the most significant dates on the calendar. Molded by religion, mythology and culture, Hindus have celebrated this festival in India for thousands of years.
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Ramadhan: October – November 2008
To Muslims worldwide, the fasting month of Ramadhan that precedes the Aidilfitri celebrations is an auspicious time of the year. In Malaysia, it is also seen as a great time to feast -- as is reflected by the enthusiasm towards the famous Ramadhan bazaars.
The Ramadhan bazaar can best be described as a trend that became a culture. Long before the fast ends at sunset, hundreds of stalls selling various foods sprout throughout the country by roadsides, fields, market places and even malls. These stalls last only through the Ramadhan and are run by temporary operators. This phenomenon, which sweeps through every nook and corner of Malaysia, is regarded as one of the most exciting annual happenings. The reason Well, each visitor will have to visit the Ramadhan bazaar for him or herself to understand the fervor it sparks off.
The scene that greets one at a bazaar is nothing short of astounding. Food in all colors, forms and aromas stimulate the senses. From Malaysia's signature dishes to hard-to-find home recipes, all of these delectable treats their ways to the tabletops of the vendors. Hundreds of dishes from every state in Malaysia can be found in just one place. From the north, the piquant 'laksa,' rich 'nasi kandar,' 'nasi lemuni' and delicious 'pasembor' tempt buyers with the very sight. More rice variations like the 'nasi dagang,' 'nasi kerabu' and grilled items like 'ikan and ayam percik' as well as the rich soupy 'laksam' are a few contributions from the east coast states. The southern state of Johor offers its famed 'nasi biryani,' 'laksa Johor,' 'mee bandung' and 'soto'. Added to this list are colorful deserts and fresh tropical fruit juices that would soothe the parched throats of the fasting community.
A few of Kuala Lumpur's top bazaars can be found in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Jalan Raja Alang, Kampung Baru and Masjid India. Although every district in the capital is awash with bazaars, these particular ones seem to stretch endlessly, making it almost impossible to browse through the whole area, let alone savor the dishes. The already famous food capital of Penang gets even busier during this period. Visit the bazaars at Gelugor and Bayan Baru and see why Penang takes the crown for cuisine excellence. In Alor Setar, Kedah, the Darul Aman Stadium is another notable bazaar location. Over the east coast at Kota Bahru, the Parit Dalam bazaar offers a delightful feast as well. Here, the fare leans towards eastern and Thai specialties.
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Hari Raya Aidilfitri: November 2008
Each year, during the holy month of Ramadhan, Muslims in Malaysia prepare for one of the holiest celebrations in the Islamic calendar, the Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Hari Raya, as it is localy known, means a 'day of celebration,' while 'Aidilfitri' gives meaning to 'festival of fast-breaking'.
Festivities begin a month before, during the Ramadan -or fasting- month. Muslims are required to fast from dawn till dusk and are encouraged to abstain from unholy and unhealthy activities. It is also an opportune time to offer alms to the needy. A customary offering, called the 'fitrah,' either inform of food or money and is a requirement during this month. In Malaysia Muslims often break the daily fast with the poor, orphans and the elderly. The multi-racial populace adds color to the occasion, with many non- Muslims joining their Muslim friends in fast-breaking. Referred to as 'buka puasa' or 'iftaa' in some countries, this is a time looked forward to by all Malaysians. Locals and visitors alike can delight in the hundreds of food stalls that sprout up all over the country, bearing a delicious variety of delicacies.
Shopping frenzies take place during this festive time as well. With new clothes to buy, homes to be decorated and cookies to be made, the country gets caught up in a cheerful mood. Sales and promotions sweep through stores and shopping complexes are decorated in Aidilfitri trimmings. Sparkling lights, oil lamps and miniature 'ketupat' (a rice delicacy cooked in casings weaved out of coconut leaves) brighten up homes everywhere. There is a rush to have traditional clothes like 'Baju Kurung,' 'Kebaya' and 'Baju Melayu' tailored; others find easy alternatives in ready-made outfits. Family members gather to bake cakes, while those who opt for convenience buy these goodies from vendors.As the fasting draws to an end, the feasting mood looms large. City folk rush for tickets back to their hometowns in the famous 'balik kampong' (returning home) trend. Muslims wait with excitement as spiritual leaders set out to admire the new moon and proclaim Aidilfitri on the first day of the Syawal month. Then, the festive mood kicks off at full scale with merrymaking and children playing with fireworks. The celebrations begin with morning prayers led by the Imam (spiritual headman) at mosques, followed by an oration. At home, younger family members seek the pardon and blessings of elders. The feasting begins and lasts through the following days. The celebrations would not be complete without the presence of the 'ketupat' and 'lemang,' glutinous rice cooked in bamboo, its accompanying 'rendang', a spicy and rich beef or chicken dish, and 'serunding', a kind of dry meat floss. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the 'dodol,' a thick and sticky sweetmeat, or 'bahulu,' the local version of muffins, and the many traditional and modern cookies. As with other festivals in Malaysia, friends from other ethnicities offer their good wishes and partake in the festivities. Open houses are held all over the country, with hosts opening their doors to one and all.
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Chingay: December 2008
Malaysians of Chinese descent who are known for their acrobatic skills display their prowess during the 'Chingay' procession, associated with the year-end Penang Festival. Performers balance huge poles with enormous triangular flags on their foreheads, chins, lower jaws and shoulders.
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Christmas: December 2008
Like Christians in other parts of the world, Malaysian Christians celebrate Christmas on December 25th each year. It is marked by midnight services at churches on the eve or attending church on the day itself. The merriment usually begins a fortnight before the date, when shopping centers and hotels echo the revelry and Yuletide spirit with colorful decorations, Christmas trees and lights.
Hari Raya Aidil Adha marks the conclusion of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. It is celebrated on the 10th day of Zulhijjah, the 12th month of the Muslim calendar. The day starts with prayers in mosques and is followed by the offering of cattle or goats to the needy.
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Thaipusam: January 2008
This spectacular festival occurs in late January or early February and is a celebration of Lord Subramaniam. On the eve of the festival, a statue of the Lord is taken on procession in a chariot drawn by bullocks. The next day, devotees carry 'kavadis' through Hindu temples amidst chanting and drumming. A kavadi is a metal or wooden arch with elaborate decorations, which is placed on the devotee's shoulders. Hooks or spikes from the kavadi are pierced into parts of the devotee's body. The festival is celebrated on a large scale in Penang, Selangor and Perak.
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Chinese New Year in Malaysia : February 2008
Chinese New Year is celebrated over a period of 15 days, beginning from the 1st day of the Chinese lunar calendar. It is a joyous occasion marked by family reunions, giving of red packets, or 'ang pows,' by parents to children or among relatives. This practice, coupled with the giving away of mandarin oranges, is a symbol of prosperity and good luck for the recipients. Another highlight is the traditional lion dance.
The Chinese New Year tradition is said to have originated hundreds of years ago when villagers in a province in China were tormented by a dragon. To scare it away, they decorated the village in bright red and lit firecrackers. As time passed, the coming of spring was incorporated into the celebration, hence the name 'New Year,' signifying the birth of new things.
The Chinese New Year is one of the biggest celebrations in Malaysia. Falling on a month or so behind the western calendar, this festival is celebrated with pomp, grandeur and ceremony for almost 15 days. Decorations in most Chinese homes include young blossoms of cherries, plums and bamboo, which symbolizes rebirth as well as flexibility and endurance. The New Year is seen as a time of abundant food. The variety and amount of food prepared tops any other holiday time. Among the delicacies prepared are 'nian gao', a sweet glutinous rice pudding, crispy love letters made from a batter, steamed wheat bread called 'man tou' and little meat dumplings.
The Lunar New Year is also a time for families to get together. A unique Malaysian contribution to the local Chinese culture is the 'lau yee sang,' an exotic dish made up of raw fish, vegetables and colored noodles. Often, the gathered family mixes and tosses this dish before consuming it, as a symbol of unity and joy.
Children have a wonderful time collecting their bounties in the form of 'ang pow,' or red packets holding monetary presents. Chinese elders usually hand these packets out to younger family members and visiting friends. The mandatory lighting of fireworks and firecrackers bring about fun and laughter to both the young and elderly. Thrilling lion dance performances can be observed at homes, office buildings and shopping complexes. The 'lion' is believed to bring good luck and prosperity with it wherever it goes.The celebrations go on for 15 days, during which prayers are held and offerings of food and incense are made to the gods and dead ancestors. The celebrations culminate with the 'Chap Goh Mei' festival on the 15th day when colorful lanterns are lit and unmarried women throw oranges into the sea to invoke blessings in seeking good husbands. As with most festivals in Malaysia , people of all races visit their Chinese friends during this season to convey their good wishes. Open houses are also held by many families, who open their homes to friends and loved ones.
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Prophet Mohammed's Birthday: April 2008
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad, celebrated on the 12th of the month of Rabiulawal, is another important occasion in the Muslim calendar. It is marked by special prayers and sermons in mosques, followed by processions and feasts.
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Wesak Day: May 2008
Lord Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death are celebrated through various events, including the release of caged birds to symbolize the freeing of captive souls. Most Buddhists observe a vegetarian diet on this day and in some towns, like Penang, a procession takes place at night.
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Pesta Ka'amatan: May 2008
The best time to visit Sabah and experience this occasion is from May 30th to 31st, when the Kadazan and Dusun communities offer thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. Highlights include a beauty pageant, cultural dances and rituals that culminate in the Thanksgiving ceremony performed by the 'Bobohizan,' or high priestess.
With a wealth of ethnic groups, the states of Sabah and Sarawak have an outstanding diversity of culture. The biggest ethnic group in Sabah, the Kadazan-Dusun, celebrates the padi harvesting festival (the Tadau Ka'amatan) in May. Tadau Ka'amatan is the most important celebration in the lives of this ancient tribe of Sabah. This festival, which spans the entire month of May, is an offer of thanksgiving to the rice spirits (Bambarayon) for a bountiful harvest. The highlight of this harvest festival is a dance performed by the high priestess (Bobolian) in search of the rice spirits, whose presence is vital for a fruitful harvest. Much fun and excitement take place and merry makers indulge in dancing, feasting, and drinking of a potent wine called 'tapai,' buffalo racing and arm wrestling. The festivities end with the crowning of the Harvest Queen.
Similar to the Tadau Ka'amatan, Gawai Dayak is Sarawak's version of the same festival. The Iban tribe, along with the Orang Ulu and Bidayuh, celebrate this festival at the beginning of June. It marks the end of the rice harvest and is a resting period from the toils of the fields as well as a thanksgiving ceremony to the gods for a bountiful harvest. The festival also seeks the blessings of the spirits to ensure a fruitful harvest the following year. Huge banquets of traditional food are prepared and 'tuak,' a potent rice wine and a must at the festivities, is brewed. Urban folk return to their ancestral villages to take part in the merry making and rituals. Visitors are welcome to join in the feasting and dancing and watch the exotic cultural festivities. This exciting period also provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to gain an insight to life at the longhouse. This party mood prevails throughout the month of June, providing ample time and occasion for the people to revel in continuous celebration.
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Colors of Malaysia: May 2008
Occurring throughout Malaysia, the 'Colors of Malaysia' is an entire month of culture, craft and cuisine. It brings together activities, exhibitions and events that showcase the best of Malaysia. Join in the festivities as the month kicks off with a parade as well as dance and music performances. Food festivals and cultural exhibitions are also held throughout the country. The highlight is a spectacular parade bearing the theme 'Citrawarna Malaysia,' or 'Colors of Malaysia,' held in Kuala Lumpur.
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Dragon Boat Festival: June 2008
The month of June sees the colorful and reverberating Dragon Boat festival in the states of Penang and Malacca. Also known as the Double Fifth Festival, it takes place on the fifth day of the fifth moon of the lunar calendar and is deemed one of the three most important Chinese festivals. This summer festival tells of a favored Chinese scholar named Chu Yuan who served the King of Chu many centuries back. Falling victim to his jealous rivals, he fell out of favor with the king and unable to regain the King's confidence, drowned himself in a river in the Hunan Province . Recognizing his true nobility, the people in the area rushed out in their boats in a vain attempt to rescue him. This unsuccessful attempt is apart of what the Dragon Boat festival commemorates each year with the racing of the Dragon Boats.
The boats feature the head and tail of a dragon, a mythological creature believed to rule the waters. Once affixed to the boats, a Taoist priest performs rituals accompanied by the burning of incense and firecrackers to bring the boats to 'life.' These rituals are also done to cast away any evil spirits lurking about to ruin the festivities. As an offering to the dead scholar, villagers in the early days made offerings of rice stuffed in bamboo sections and threw them into the rivers. This custom has evolved to the present day tradition where rice stuffed with various delicacies like vegetables, nuts, beans and ham are turned into dumplings called Tzungtzu and eaten during the festival. The race is a colorful and joyous event greatly enjoyed by all. Enthusiastic spectators cheer as the race kicks off with the slow beating of drums, which increase steadily to end in a frenzied crescendo as the boats speed across the finish line.
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Gawai Dayak: June 2008
This annual Sarawak Dayak festival is celebrated in early June and marks the end of the rice-harvesting season. To prepare for the festival, Dayaks clean their homes and the graves of their ancestors. On the festival's eve, family members attend a reunion during which the youngest member offers a plate of specially prepared food to his parents. Tuak, or rice wine, is served to all and dancing is part of the merry-making. Attired in their finest, the Dayaks offer sacrifices of livestock in return for a good harvest. Other events that take place are war dances, cockfights and blowpipe contests.
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Mega Sale Carnival: June-September 2008
Shop until you drop at the Mega Sale Carnival! This extravaganza is held once a year and offers an exciting range of merchandise and a host of bargains at shopping centers nationwide. Check out the branded items, fashion wear, sportswear, leather products, perfumes, jewelry, ethnic crafts, collectibles, IT products, and other tempting buys.
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Hungry Ghost Festival: August 2008
If witches and devils visit our realm on All Hallows Eve, their fearsome counterparts make their trips to this region during the Hungry Ghost Festival. Each year, during the 7th month in the Chinese lunar calendar, the Chinese community in a sense of reverence and apprehension celebrates this festival.
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Merdeka Eve Celebration: August 2008
Join in the fun on the eve of the anniversary of Malaysia's national day. A carnival-like atmosphere pervades on this night of mesmerizing dances, dazzling colorful fireworks display and performances by local artists, culminating in the Merdeka countdown for the raising of the Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian Flag) at the stroke of midnight amidst the hearty shouts of "merdeka."
Malaysia's national day on August 31st is celebrated on a grand scale with colorful parades, stage shows, and competitions at major towns throughout the country.
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Lantern and Mooncake Festival: September 2008
The Moon Cake Festival takes place on the 15th day in the eight lunar month. Its popularity stems from the various reasons it is celebrated for, which explains how the festival came to be known simultaneously as 'Zhong Qiu Jive' or Mid- Autumn Festival and Lantern Festival.
A legend, which can be traced to 2000 B.C, speaks of ten suns circling the earth, each taking its turn to nourish the earth. When suddenly all 10 suns appeared concurrently, the reigning emperor summoned Hour Yi a skilled archer from his imperial army, to obliterate nine of the suns. Impressed by his achievement, the Goddess of the Western Heaven asked Hou Yi to build her a jade palace. For this, she gifted him the elixir of immortality. The gift fell into the hands of his wife, Chang Oh and upon consuming, she was banished to the moon. It is Chang Oh's beauty that is said to heighten the radiance of the mid-autumn moon. A different version of this legend says that Hou Yi became emperor after his feat but success turned him into a tyrant. He desired to rule forever and to attain this goal he acquired the elixir of life. To avert disaster, his wife consumed the elixir herself and floated off to the moon.
The Moon Cake Festival took on a fresh meaning in the 14th century, when one Zhu Yuan Zhang overthrew the ruling Mongolian Yuan Dynasty. He and his rebels spread their propaganda by hiding messages in the moon cakes. They used the lantern procession and the tradition of exchanging moon cakes to aid their mission. The plot paid off and the Yuan dynasty was ousted. Zhu Yuan Zhang then became the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty and is still revered today for his achievement in overthrowing the Mongolians. The lantern displays and processions held in conjunction with the Moon Cake Festival commemorate this honor.
The Mid Autumn festival celebrates romance as well. The luminous light of the full, circular moon also signifies lovers seeking unity. In addition, the festival is said to honor the birth of the Earth God, to whom the farming community gives thanks for the bounties reaped.
In Malaysia and parts of the world with a significant resident Chinese community, a wide array of moon cakes can be found during this period in Asian markets and bakeries. It's common in Malaysia to see children of all races joyfully participating in lantern competitions and processions. In the same tradition, moon cakes and goodies are shared around with non-Chinese work mates and friends in a spirit of unity and happiness synonymous with the Moon Cake Festival.
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Deepavali: October 2008
For the Hindu community in Malaysia and around the world, the 'Deepavali' or 'Diwali' marks one of the most significant dates on the calendar. Molded by religion, mythology and culture, Hindus have celebrated this festival in India for thousands of years.
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Ramadhan: October – November 2008
To Muslims worldwide, the fasting month of Ramadhan that precedes the Aidilfitri celebrations is an auspicious time of the year. In Malaysia, it is also seen as a great time to feast -- as is reflected by the enthusiasm towards the famous Ramadhan bazaars.
The Ramadhan bazaar can best be described as a trend that became a culture. Long before the fast ends at sunset, hundreds of stalls selling various foods sprout throughout the country by roadsides, fields, market places and even malls. These stalls last only through the Ramadhan and are run by temporary operators. This phenomenon, which sweeps through every nook and corner of Malaysia, is regarded as one of the most exciting annual happenings. The reason Well, each visitor will have to visit the Ramadhan bazaar for him or herself to understand the fervor it sparks off.
The scene that greets one at a bazaar is nothing short of astounding. Food in all colors, forms and aromas stimulate the senses. From Malaysia's signature dishes to hard-to-find home recipes, all of these delectable treats their ways to the tabletops of the vendors. Hundreds of dishes from every state in Malaysia can be found in just one place. From the north, the piquant 'laksa,' rich 'nasi kandar,' 'nasi lemuni' and delicious 'pasembor' tempt buyers with the very sight. More rice variations like the 'nasi dagang,' 'nasi kerabu' and grilled items like 'ikan and ayam percik' as well as the rich soupy 'laksam' are a few contributions from the east coast states. The southern state of Johor offers its famed 'nasi biryani,' 'laksa Johor,' 'mee bandung' and 'soto'. Added to this list are colorful deserts and fresh tropical fruit juices that would soothe the parched throats of the fasting community.
A few of Kuala Lumpur's top bazaars can be found in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Jalan Raja Alang, Kampung Baru and Masjid India. Although every district in the capital is awash with bazaars, these particular ones seem to stretch endlessly, making it almost impossible to browse through the whole area, let alone savor the dishes. The already famous food capital of Penang gets even busier during this period. Visit the bazaars at Gelugor and Bayan Baru and see why Penang takes the crown for cuisine excellence. In Alor Setar, Kedah, the Darul Aman Stadium is another notable bazaar location. Over the east coast at Kota Bahru, the Parit Dalam bazaar offers a delightful feast as well. Here, the fare leans towards eastern and Thai specialties.
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Hari Raya Aidilfitri: November 2008
Each year, during the holy month of Ramadhan, Muslims in Malaysia prepare for one of the holiest celebrations in the Islamic calendar, the Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Hari Raya, as it is localy known, means a 'day of celebration,' while 'Aidilfitri' gives meaning to 'festival of fast-breaking'.
Festivities begin a month before, during the Ramadan -or fasting- month. Muslims are required to fast from dawn till dusk and are encouraged to abstain from unholy and unhealthy activities. It is also an opportune time to offer alms to the needy. A customary offering, called the 'fitrah,' either inform of food or money and is a requirement during this month. In Malaysia Muslims often break the daily fast with the poor, orphans and the elderly. The multi-racial populace adds color to the occasion, with many non- Muslims joining their Muslim friends in fast-breaking. Referred to as 'buka puasa' or 'iftaa' in some countries, this is a time looked forward to by all Malaysians. Locals and visitors alike can delight in the hundreds of food stalls that sprout up all over the country, bearing a delicious variety of delicacies.
Shopping frenzies take place during this festive time as well. With new clothes to buy, homes to be decorated and cookies to be made, the country gets caught up in a cheerful mood. Sales and promotions sweep through stores and shopping complexes are decorated in Aidilfitri trimmings. Sparkling lights, oil lamps and miniature 'ketupat' (a rice delicacy cooked in casings weaved out of coconut leaves) brighten up homes everywhere. There is a rush to have traditional clothes like 'Baju Kurung,' 'Kebaya' and 'Baju Melayu' tailored; others find easy alternatives in ready-made outfits. Family members gather to bake cakes, while those who opt for convenience buy these goodies from vendors.As the fasting draws to an end, the feasting mood looms large. City folk rush for tickets back to their hometowns in the famous 'balik kampong' (returning home) trend. Muslims wait with excitement as spiritual leaders set out to admire the new moon and proclaim Aidilfitri on the first day of the Syawal month. Then, the festive mood kicks off at full scale with merrymaking and children playing with fireworks. The celebrations begin with morning prayers led by the Imam (spiritual headman) at mosques, followed by an oration. At home, younger family members seek the pardon and blessings of elders. The feasting begins and lasts through the following days. The celebrations would not be complete without the presence of the 'ketupat' and 'lemang,' glutinous rice cooked in bamboo, its accompanying 'rendang', a spicy and rich beef or chicken dish, and 'serunding', a kind of dry meat floss. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the 'dodol,' a thick and sticky sweetmeat, or 'bahulu,' the local version of muffins, and the many traditional and modern cookies. As with other festivals in Malaysia, friends from other ethnicities offer their good wishes and partake in the festivities. Open houses are held all over the country, with hosts opening their doors to one and all.
[Back to Top]
Chingay: December 2008
Malaysians of Chinese descent who are known for their acrobatic skills display their prowess during the 'Chingay' procession, associated with the year-end Penang Festival. Performers balance huge poles with enormous triangular flags on their foreheads, chins, lower jaws and shoulders.
[Back to Top]
Christmas: December 2008
Like Christians in other parts of the world, Malaysian Christians celebrate Christmas on December 25th each year. It is marked by midnight services at churches on the eve or attending church on the day itself. The merriment usually begins a fortnight before the date, when shopping centers and hotels echo the revelry and Yuletide spirit with colorful decorations, Christmas trees and lights.
Malaysia Tourism
BRIEF HISTORY
Malaysia's history starts generally around the establishment of the Malacca sultanate. During the 13th century, it was renowned as a major port for traders from both east and west.
Following this time, events developing in China and the Roman Empire motivated Indian traders to seek a new port for their rich trade. Malacca was chosen, based mainly on its advantageous location -- it was sheltered from strong monsoon winds, thus the port was able to operate year-round. Spices and other precious goods were the main commodities traded at this new port, which flourished as the world's new major maritime trade point, especially for Indian, Arab and Chinese traders.
Malacca's profitable position was envied by many and resulted in the Portuguese invasion in 1511. Later, in 1641, the Dutch defeated the Portuguese and reigned until 1815 when the British Empire took over. In 1826, the British ruled and consolidated Penang, Singapore and Malacca under one administration unit called the Colony of the Straits Settlement. After World War II, there was a resurgence of Malayan nationalism leading to the Declaration of Independence for the Federation of Malaya from the British Empire on August 31, 1957.
This movement was led by Tunku Abdul Rahman, who later became Malaysia's first Prime Minister. Malaysia, at the time, comprised 13 states (including Singapore, Sabah and Sarawak) and two federal territories were formed in 1963. This formation was opposed by neighboring Indonesia, which resulted in a confrontation with the large Asian nation. The conflict ended with the fall of Indonesia's President Sukarno a year later. Singapore later withdrew from the Federation in 1965.
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION
Malaysia has 13 states: 11 on the Malayan Peninsula (West Malaysia) and two, Sabah and Sarawak, on the island of Borneo (East Malaysia).
Malaysia's capital city is Kuala Lumpur. The new administrative center is in Putrajaya, which is approximately a 30-minutes drive from the capital.
GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION
Malaysia lies at 7° North of the Equator and consists of West and East Malaysia. West Malaysia is bordered by Thailand to the north, Singapore to the south, South China Sea to the east, and Straits of Malacca to the west. East Malaysia shares its southern border with Indonesia, and is cradled by the South China Sea to the west and north, and the Sulu Sea to the northeast. Although Malaysia is not an large country in terms of actual land area (roughly 127,316 sq miles), but it has an enormously great deal to offer.
CLIMATE
Malaysia is pampered with a warm tropical climate, with general temperatures ranging from 70° F to 90° F. The weather is very strongly influenced by the Northeast and the Southwest Monsoon. The period of May to September is usually a drier period. The East Coast of West Malaysia and the states in East Malaysia normally have their rainy seasons between November and February.
POPULATION AND DEMOGRAPHIC
Malaysia is a land of ready smiles and incredible variety. The rich diversity of experiences and contrasts beckons the worldly traveler, from city-lovers to adventure-seekers and much, much more. Here, in this land of friendly and fascinating people, you can get a taste of all of Asia in a single destination.
Come mingle with the country's population of more than 25 million people, which consists of Malays (the nation's biggest ethnicity) and other indigenous groups including the Orang Asli, Dayaks, Kadazan Dusun, Melanau, Murut and more. Joining them are the large Chinese and Indian populations, and groups of mixed descent, such as the Baba-Nyonyas and Eurasians of Portuguese and other European ancestry, as well as other immigrant Asian ethnicities.
The Malays and the native tribal groups make up approximately 60% of the total population. Chinese 30%, Indians 8% and the balance a melting pot of other races and cultures. Four-fifths of the population resides in West Malaysia .
LANGUAGE
Although Bahasa Malaysia is the official language, English is widely spoken. Other prominent languages spoken - Mandarin, other Chinese dialects, Tamil, Punjabi.
RELIGION
Although the official religion of Malaysia is Islam, each person is free to practice his or her own faith. The abundance of temples, mosques, churches and other places of worship bears testament to this. Islam in Malaysia is rather tolerant and does not comply with the fundamental belief of extremists.
ECONOMY
Malaysia remains one of the world's largest producers of rubber, palm oil, timber and tin. In recent years, the manufacturing and service (notably the tourism sector) industries have become main contributors to the economy. Exports of electronic products are one of the main contributors of the nation's economic growth. In fact, Malaysia is one of the few Asian countries that has its own car manufacturing industry. The stability of the economy and its political scenario has managed to attract tremendous foreign investment into the country.
The country's major trading partners are Japan, the United States, Singapore, the United Kingdom and Germany.
CURRENCY
The Malaysian unit of currency is the Ringgit Malaysia (RM), which is divided into 100 sen. Currency comes in notes of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM50 and RM100. Coins are issued in 1 sen, 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen and RM1 denominations. MYR3.7.
All currencies brought into and out of the country must be declared by a Travelers Declaration Form, which can be obtained at Malaysia's entry and exit points. Due to government regulations, non-residents are not allowed to bring in and out of the country more than RM1000.00 at any given time, but foreign currencies are not regulated.
All commercial banks are authorized foreign exchange dealers. Major hotels, however, are only licensed to buy or accept foreign currencies in the form of notes and travelers' checks.
Currency Converter
TIME ZONE
Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Meridian Time), 16 hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time and 13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. Daylight Saving Time is not applicable to the country.
ELECTRICITY AND VOLTAGE
Malaysia's electric supply is on a 240-volt 50-cycle system. Visitors from countries using different electricity voltage systems are advised to bring their converters and adapters.
WATER
Water is generally safe to be consumed from the tap, though boiling prior to consumption is advisable.
NASA’s Loss Is Space Tourism’s Gain
There wasn’t much joy to be found in the summary report, the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee, released Tuesday. But as people continue poring over the details some in the industry see a bright side.
The report (.pdf) — issued by a panel better known as the Augustine committee after the name of its chairman, former Lockheed Martin exec Norm Augustine — made it clear NASA’s manned space flight has a bleak future unless it gets significantly more money. But where some see tough times ahead for NASA, others see a bright future for private ventures and space tourism.
One high note within the report is the suggestion private space companies such as Elon Musk’s SpaceX could be viable alternatives to NASA in delivering people and cargo to space (specifically LEO, or low-earth orbit, for the acronym-happy space folks), including missions to the International Space Station.
“At SpaceX we feel pretty confident in being able to do it for about $20 million per seat,” Elon Musk said in a conference call with reporters. That’s about 40 percent of what it would cost to ride along with the Russian Space Agency, he said. His numbers are based on a minimum contract of four flights per year with seven passengers on board SpaceX’s Dragon capsule.
Musk and others are talking about fulfilling contracts from NASA to deliver astronauts to the space station, but people like Space Adventures CEO Eric Anderson see new possibilities for space tourism.
“A commercial program may have requirements that are more favorable to commercial passengers, with regard to training and language requirements,” Anderson said, referring to his company’s current deals with the Russian space program. Space tourists such as Charles Simonyi (he’s been twice) and Anousheh Ansari (pictured above) have had to travel to Russia to undergo extensive training before their launches into orbit. Anderson believes commercial carriers could create a more favorable training experience for those willing to put up the $20 million.
“I think that would actually drastically increase the market size of potential candidates,” he said.
Of course, if there is a rush of passengers because of cheaper (a relative term in space flight) and more favorable commercial transportation options to LEO, there probably will have to be more destinations than the International Space Station. Anderson says there’s no reason space hotels won’t fill that need.
“It’s very feasible over the next few years to start small and grow bigger as soon as the transportation problem is solved,” he said.
Meanwhile, for those of us without the extra seven or eight zeros at the end of their checkbook balance, Virgin Galactic is moving full speed ahead in suborbital space-tourism plans. Its mothership, White Knight Two, has undergone initial flight testing and is awaiting its cargo, SpaceShipTwo. That craft is expected to be unveiled in December. The 60-foot long space craft is slated for initial glide flights next year, and could be carrying passengers into space as soon as 2011. The new spacecraft retains many of the design features found in SpaceShipOne, though it is much larger. Jim Tighe, chief project engineer on SpaceShipTwo, told Aviation Week that SS2 has all the design features you’d be expect in “an aircraft that goes Mach 3 and folds in half.”
The rides won’t take passengers to orbit, but they also won’t cost $20 million. Tickets are $200,000 for a ride to an altitude of more than 100 kilometers (328,000 feet) that will include several minutes of weightlessness. Virgin Galactic already has collected more than $40 million in deposits from 300 passengers. The good news for the rest of us is the company has said since the beginning that they believe the price will drop rapidly as the system is refined and launch frequency grows from the initial one launch per week to around one per day.
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