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Relaxed trip to Singapore and Malaysia

Relaxed trip to Singapore and Malaysia 



 

Sumeet's answer about things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Singapore

Hey!

A trip to Singapore and Malaysia sounds very exciting! People from all around the world flock to these countries and they are never disappointed! An ideal destination for you and your wife, there are attractions for one and all.

Singapore Parliament House @ the Heart of the City (Source: William Cho) 

I have planned your itinerary in such a way that you spend the first three days of your trip in Singapore and then head to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur (Source: Daran Kandasamy) 

When to Go

The best time of the year to visit Singapore is from May end till the middle of July- this is because of the Great Singapore Sale. Shops all over Singapore offer great discounts and hence it becomes a shopper's paradise.

Weatherwise, the end of September to November and February to May is the best time. November to about February sometimes it is really rainy so I would recommend going at the end of February till about May. There won't be quite as many other tourists, but there are generally always a lot. It is hot year round, even when it rains so there is not really a "cooler" time of the year to go

(Source: Yahoo! UK & Ireland Answers) 

Malaysia can be visited from May to September as weather is favorable for tourism.

Whatever is the season, the beauty and charm of Malaysia never ceases. But yes, like other tourism destinations, it has its own travel peak season or in other words, best time to visit Malaysia. Seeing that the nation's climate is primarily tropical, it remains hot and humid throughout the year. So, regarding the weather, months from May to September are considered as the ideal time to visit Malaysia.

 (Source:  Best Time to Go to Malaysia) 

Since you want to include both these destinations in your trip, the ideal time would be from May to July. 

Overview-Itinerary

Keeping your budget in mind, there is absolutely no need to include a day or two more to your trip. A six-day trip should suffice to visit Singapore and Malaysia both. You can visit Singapore first then head to Kuala Lumpur for the remainder of your trip. This is how your trip can be planned.

Day 1-3 Singapore:

Fly into Singapore and relax at a hotel for sometime on day 1. Post-lunch go visit the Singapore Zoo. Afterwards go for the Night Safari and return to the hotel.

On day 2 visit the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Fort Canning Park.

On day 3 visit the National Museum of Singapore and Chinatown.

Day 4-6 Malaysia

Day 4: Depart from Singapore for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by bus. You can book tickets here. Arrive at the hotel and relax for a bit. Go for the Malaysia cultural evening show and learn about the Malaysian culture accompanied with Malaysia cuisine.

Day 5: Visit the Islamic Arts Museum and the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park. In the evening go see the Petronas Towers.

Day 6: Visit the Foot Master fish spa which will be perfect for relaxation at the end of your trip. If you are up for it and have the time, shop at the flea markets. Depart for India in the evening or the following morning.

Overview of Singapore

Singapore is a beautiful and prosperous country with friendly and hospitable people. It is known as the garden city because it has exquisite gardens all around. With a variety of food, culture and shopping one can never get enough of this country!!

SIngapore (Source: Jesse Baron) 

Accommodation

Here are a few good hotels in Singapore.

Do note that all the hotels I have recommended are in the $60-$100 range.

1. South East Asia Hotel (Recommended)
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Located in first-class location, the South East Asia Hotel is offers comfort and great vegetarian food. Clean air-conditioned rooms which are well maintained makes it hard to believe that  a hotel with such facilities at affordable prices can actually exist!

Rates starting at 80 USD. More information here.

You can do your bookings here and here.

Here is a review:

Spent 2 nights at SEA Hotel and it was worth the money I paid for. Being a budget hotel I didn't expect much so I was pleasantly surprised to find amenities such as 2 towels, shampoo, soap, and electronic kettle. The location is excellent too. It's a 3 minute walk to Bugis Street (shopping center) and 5 minutes (or less if not crowded) to the Bugis MRT. I was able to sleep well also and didn't hear any noise from other hotel guests. Another thing I liked about SEAHotel is that they kept my luggage for 8hours without extra charge!

(Source: South East Asia Hotel (Singapore, Singapore)

Address:190 Waterloo St, Singapore 187965, Singapore

Contact details: Tel: (65) 6338-2394 Fax: (65) 6338-3480

2. Hotel 81 Dickson (Recommended)
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A part of the Hotel 81 chain, this one commands a great location in Little India. Its situated amidst an area good for local shopping. The ares around the hotel has a lot of cheap eateries and restaurants.

Prices start from S$93 per night. For booking click here.

Traveler reviews...

I stayed here for three night. The hotel was located conveniently in the centre of the city, shop and restaurants surround, near attractions, subway and skytrain, so you can walk around for promenade. Friendly staff. My room was small but the hotel was a good value for the money.


(Source: TripAdvisor) 

The hotel is very well situated for a tourist The staff were all very helpful, efficient and friendly. Our room was a inner room without a window. Very small in size and without a fridge - which was a bit of a problem as we could not keep any cold water or any foods for breakfast in the fridge. The bathroom was also very small but good enough. We did however miss a space to pack our toiletries. The room was always well cleaned.

(Source: Hotel 81 Dickson Review : Singapore Hotels) 

Address: 3 Dickson Road, Singapore 209530
Tel: 6392 8181

3. Strand Hotel
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The Strand Hotel is a clean basic hotel which provides good value for money. It is located in a convenient location and has a coffee shop and wifi access among various other facilities.

Rates start from 65 USD.

Here is a review:

I used this Hotel as a transit hotel heading back to Thailand. Very good value for money in Singapore which you pay through the nose for most hotels. I found the location very good, 7/11 over the road, plenty of shops etc, in the middle of the CBD. Breakfast was ordinary, though it was ok for the money.
The rooms also, large and comfortable, though a little tired, but again. You get what you pay for, and i think for Singapore the Strand is good value for money.
Would I stay again?
Absolutely

 (Source: Strand Hotel Reviews and Photos, Singapore) 

Address: 25 Bencoolen Street Singapore 189619

Contact details:Tel: (65) 6338 1866 Fax: (65) 6338 1330

Things to See

Here is a list of must-see attractions on your short stay in the city.

The only big thing I have missed out is Sentosa Island but you can read here on how to spend your day at Sentosa.

1. Singapore Zoo (Recommended)
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Truly a kingdom of animals of all species and from all over the globe! The Singapore Zoo is beautifully conceptualized, placing animals in what seems like their natural habitat by camouflaging barriers and cages behind waterfalls or vegetation to make you feel like you're really in the wild!

 (Source: Sheri) 

Here is a review:

Absolute Must See in Singapore. Orangutans have free range so look up and you see one swinging past. You are very close to the animals. Rainforest enclosure was highlight when lemurs ran between us just inches from our toes. You're in the enclosure with them! We had a great day. Easy to get there by public transport. Big queues for the zoo tram to get around the zoo so don't bother buying a ticket for it. Take your camera. Our photos are stunning.

 (Source: Singapore Zoo, Singapore ) 

Click here for more information.

Timings: 08:30 to 18:30 Entry fee: Adult-18 USD

(Tip- Buy combined tickets to the zoo and night safari. Adult-30 USD)

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd Singapore 729826 Singapore

2. Night Safari
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Known as the first noctural zoo in the world, the Night Safari is an absolute-must for nature lovers. Hundreds of animals, can be seen in the lush green forests. It offers a unique insight into the lives of the noctural animals such as vultures, sloth bears, rhinos, wolves and hyenas who are completely unaware of human presence. A complete wildlife experience for the entire family!

Night safari (Source: David Lee) 

Here is a review:

My wife and I did the actual safari first which is nice to sit and relax and watch the animals passing by. after the Safari we ventured into the walkways and exhibits which was intimidating as its really dark at some points and knowing that some animals are freely walking around was always in the back of my mind.

I definitely reccomend and I think its a good idea, typically in zoos the animals are sleeping or hiding somewhere obscure due to the fact that majority of animals are nocturnal so this way we can see the animals in their natural nocturnal habitat. A good experience and a definite must along with the Singapore zoo.

 (Source: TripAdvisor)

Click here for more information.

Timings: 7.30 to 23:00

Entry fee: Adult- US$22

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd Singapore 729826

3. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (Recommended)
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Apart from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Singapore is the only city in the world that has a significant area with rainforests- The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. You will find more species of trees here, than in the whole of North America.

The reserve has more than 840 species of flowering plants and 500 species of fauna. One can spot exotic birds, butterflies, monkeys and flying lemurs as well as the unique insect-eating pitcher plant. At the heart of the reserve lies its highest point- Bukit Timah Hill which is Singapore's highest point making it an ideal destination for hikers.  

 (Source: Norhendra Ruslan) 

Here is a review:

We really enjoyed our trip to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. This is a great place to go to see some rainforest and to take a break from the city. Within a few minutes walk you feel like you have left civilisation behind. There are a range of walks - all clearly marked. The jungle is really impressive and we saw alot of different plants and animals.

We went late afternoon/early evening which was great as the animals were quite active at this time - we saw squirrels, monkeys and monitor lizards. There were a few people there (tourists as well as locals) but this did not spoil our enjoyment.

                                                                                 (Source: Ace - Review of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve)

Blue-crowned Hanging-Parrot (Loriculus galgulus) (Source: Lip Kee Yap) 

Click here for more information. 

Timings: 08:30 to 18:30

Entry fee: Free

Address:177 Hindhede Drive Singapore 589333

4. Fort Canning Park (Recommended)
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With a history that dates back to the 14th century, Fort Canning Park is the most historic park of Singapore. It was known as the 'Forbidden Hill' by the locals as they believed that it was the seat of the rulers of Singapore. It also has botanical garden and is famous for its sculpture exhibitions and plays. All in all it is Singapore's heritage, culture and history surrounded by nature.

Fort Canning Gate (Source: Roberto Arias) 

Here is a what a tourist had to say:

This is a tour you can easily undertake without a guide, at your own pace & no cost involved! Fort Canning Park covers 18 hectares and is one of the most beautifully maintained parks we have ever had the pleasure to explore - a veritable oasis & haven set amidst the rush of modern day living in a large city.

The park is well signposted and it would be almost impossible to lose yourself in this vast expanse! There are so many locations of interest to visit such as Raffles Terrace, the Keramat Iskander Syah, the archaeological excavation site, Fort Canning Centre, the Fort gate, the Battle Box, Spice Garden - history, culture, heritage - this place has it all.

 (Source: Fort Canning Park - Singapore)

Click here for more information

Timings: 7am-7pm

Entry fee: Free

Address: 51 Canning Rise Singapore 179872

5. National Museum of Singapore (Recommended)
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The National Museum of Singapore is a very old museum. More than 125 years old, the museum is home to many national treasures and presents the history and culture of Singapore in a most lively manner. There are festivals and events that keep on happening all year round. You can check out the event listing here in case some of the events coincide with your visit and might interest you.

The National Museum of Singapore (Source: William Cho) 

Timings: 10:00 to 18:00

Entry fee: Adult- 10 USD 

Address: 93 Stamford Road Singapore 178897 Singapore

Here is a review:

Firstly, worth visiting just for the buildings - both the old and the new. Secondly, the historical Singapore section is a great introduction to the history of the island, with thoughtful and informative displays (just make sure you get the included audio guide, as all the information is there, there is very little in the display captions). There are also separate galleries devoted to food (an important part of Singapura culture) which is very interesting and allows you to smell certain ingredients; movies and Chinese opera; and fashion. There is a gallery with rotating/visiting exhibits, a good shop (a good place to find interesting and stylish gifts and souvenirs) and a cafe (which we didn't visit). Definitely a place to visit when you are in Singapore. The ticket also includes entry to the nearby Art Gallery, which is also worth a visit.

 (Source: National Museum of Singapore Reviews - Singapore) 

Click here for more information.

6. Chinatown (Recommended)
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This is a place where you can experience ethnic Chinese culture. Chinese are the biggest ethnic group in Singapore and this area will give you taste of their food, architecture, and lifestyle. Do visit the Chinatown Heritage Centre, Chinatown Food Street, Red Dot Design Museum, Thian Hock Keng Temple and Chinatown Night Market.

 (Source: William Cho) 

In case you are shopping and looking for some cheap bargains this is one of best the places to get good souvenirs.

Although you would probably find Chinatown in most cities of the world, the one in Singapore is not only big but also unique in many ways. I found this review:

Great galleries, old buildings with lots of history, markets, excellent food and found some beautiful old wares which unfortunately we couldn't bring back. We really enjoyed our time here and wished we had a little longer

 (Source: TripAdvisor) 

Overview of Malaysia

Malaysia is a land of scenic beauty and is a traveler's paradise. One of the most famous tourist-hotspots of the world, it also offers cultural diversity and authentic cuisine. The beaches have white sand and clear blue water and would definitely give the beaches of Hawaii a run for their money!

Kuala Lumpur (Source: Roberto Arias) 

Accommodation

Here are a few good hotels in Malaysia.

1. Hotel Star Points (Recommended)
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Hotel Star Points is a 3-star hotel with large and comfortable air-conditioned rooms. It offers Indian cuisine and the vegetarian food out here is absolutely delicious.

Rates starting at: 105 USD

Here is a review:

This hotel is excellent value for money. As the hotel is fairly new the taxi drivers not sure where it is but as long as you have the address it is OK. It is only about 10mins in the taxi from KL Sentral and right close by to a MRT station. The staff were extremly friendly and helpful. The rooms were clean and the breakfast provided was very good-just dont forget you are in Malaysia. Hotel right in the hub of Little India so plenty to wander around in the evenings and good cheap eating places nearby.

Several large stores nearby and shopping Mall. It is about 15 min walk to Petronas Towers and other attractions. We were travelling around Malaysia and we were able to leave a suitcase there each time we went off to it was good not having to carry all our luggage with us. We stayed there for 7 nights in all during our 2 week holiday. It felt like we were going home each time as it was so comfy there. Nothing fancy but highly recommended.

(Source: StarPoints Hotel Kuala Lumpur ) 

Click here for more information. You can do your bookings here and here.

Address: 149, Jalan Masjid, Kuala Lumpur 50100, Malaysia

Contact details:Tel: +603 2698 1866 Fax: +603 2698 3866

2. Hotel Park Royal (Recommended)
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Located in the hub of the city, Hotel Park Royal provides spacious rooms coupled with excellent service. Book early and you might get a room with an amazing view of the city.

Hotel Room Park Royal (5) (Source: Farhan) 

Rates starting from 90 USD.

Here is a review:

At the end of my 6-week journey through Asia and S.E. Asia, I stayed at The Parkroyal Hotel for 2 nights during April 2011 on transit back to Australia. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at this hotel. I checked into the Deluxe Room which had a huge bed and other facilities such as a work desk, big en suite, in-room safe, ample towels, and did I mention the huge bed? Being a member of the GHA Discovery club entitled me to free wifi access in my room which was a plus. The view out the window of my room was of Sungei Wang Plaza and beyond.

FOOD & SHOPPING NEARBY:

A short stroll from the hotel will get you to many shopping plazas such as Pavilion (for fashion), Low Yat (for electronics), and others like Times Sq, and so on. A short cab ride away is Chinatown where you will find Petalling Street or "Chee Seong Kai" (in Cantonese). Petalling St is basically a street market selling all sorts of bags, shoes, clothing, etc.

 (Source: Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur) 

Click here for more information. You can do your bookings here and here.

Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur 50250, Malaysia

3. Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
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One of the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur. You should try this hotel if you want a great experience.

Rates: Start from US$130 per room per night

Reviews say this:

This is a super hotel with a fantastic location right opposite the Petronas Towers, which has a huge shopping mall. It overlooks KL central park and next door is the convention centre.

All other places to see in KL are only a short taxi ride away. We booked a club room which gave you access to the club lounge for complementary afternoon tea and "happy hour" between 5pm and 7pm - well worth it.

Staff were friendly and room was modern and of a 5 star standard - even though hotel only has 4 stars. We would not hesitate to use it again.

 (Source: Booking.com) 

We spent one day in Traders Hotel on our way back from Indonesia, and we did love it. Location is perfect as it is 2 minutes walk to Twin Towers and huge shopping mall if anyone is interested in. there is shuttle bus going to twin towers/shopping mall from the hotel, but actually you need it only if you go back again and again to leave all your newly bought things in the room. :)

View from the room is just amazing. As well as room itself is really looking & feeling good if you know what I mean. We would definetely stay at present hotel again.

 (Source: Best discount hotel rates) 

You can do your bookings here and here.

Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Selangor, City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur

Things to See

A list of some of the must see attractions in KL.

1. Malaysian Culture Evening (Recommended)
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The Malaysian Culture Evening is a wonderful way to observe the cultural diversity of Malaysia. The evening starts with a visit to Sri Maha Mariamman Temple which is Malaysia's oldest temple.  The tour then proceeds to shop at China town followed by a sumptuous meal at a Malay restaurant accompanied with a cultural show.  Dancers present a selection of Malaysia's rich cultural heritage depicting the different race, creed and religion.

Saloma Cultural Show (62) (Source: Farhan) 

Timings: 18:00 yo 22:00

Tour fee: 44 USD

Note: Pick up from hotel.

Click here for more information.

Do make sure you check about vegetarian food before you book this one.

2. Islamic Arts Museum (Recommended)
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The Islamic Arts Museum has one of the best collections of Islamic art. The building itself is worth seeing. The museum exhibits includes artifacts, porcelains, Islamic text, weaponry and more.

Inside the museum (Source: Ryan Lackey) 

Here is a review:

Visiting this museum was an afterthought for me; however, I'm glad that I went because it was a pleasant and educational experience. The museum has well chosen and well organized displays with informative signs. The domed ceilings themselves are works of art. One can definitely see that lots of money went into building and putting together this museum. My personal favorite is the display of miniature mosques from all over the world.

(Source: Islamic Arts Museum - Kuala Lumpur ) 

Click here for more information.

Timings: 10:00 to 18:00

Entry fee: 4 USD

Address: Jalan Lembah Perdana Kuala Lumpur 50480 Malaysia

3. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park (Recommended)
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The Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is the world's largest aviary. A popular tourist destination, it houses over 3000 birds of over 200 different species. Most of the birds are local with a small section being imported from other countries.

I missed out Jurong in Singapore for this much better substitute.

Peacock - Bird Park (Source: Catriona Ward) 

Here is a review:

In my opinion this is THE place in Kuala Lumpur. I was in Jurong Bird Park in Singapore and found it much less interesting. First of all this bird park is large. You need plenty of time, I spend there almost whole day.

My only complaint concerns access, and it's a general complaint about Kuala Lumpur: public transport was not designed for foreigners. Use taxis instead, they charge 12-16 ringits for ride from city centre.

Almost all area of the bird park is covered with nets creating great aviary. Inside are additional small aviaries or cages with different species. Arrive early as birds don't like afternoon heat. Even smallest birds are easy to approach so lens up 200 mm is sufficient, primary would be the best as bird are very fast and light is sometimes limited. You may dine in the park, restaurant is good but a little pricey.

 (Source: Kuala Lumpur Bird Park - Kuala Lumpur) 

Click here for more information.

Timings: 09:00 to 18:00

Entry fee: 4 USD

Address: 920 Jalan Lembah Taman Tasik Perdana Kuala Lumpur 50480 Malaysia

4. Petronas Twin Towers (Recommended)
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This impressive twin towers has become an icon of Kuala Lumpur. The Petrona Twin Towers dominate the skyline of the city and is visible from all corners. You can get the view of the city from the skybridge. 

Petronas Tower (Source: Sebastian Werner) 

Here is a review:

Its a great place to take photos, especially during the evening.

You can go up for free to have a look from the viewing platform. You have to get in early to get tickets (which are free) but sometimes you can just turn up during the day and ask if there are any spots free. The whole thing is a bit rushed and you only get about 15 minutes up there to look and get some photos, so you may find its not worth it. If you can't be bothered, you can go up KL Tower which I preferred (except you have to pay for this).

There is also a fancy shopping centre below the tower and a nice park on one side of the tower.

 

 (Source: Petronas Twin Towers - Kuala Lumpur ) 

Click here for more information.

Skybridge Timings: 09:00 to 17:00. Closed on Mondays.

Skybridge fee: 4 USD

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur 50088 Malaysia

5. Foot Master Fish Spa (Recommended)
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Don't consider this a squeamish experience at all but an interesting one. At the Foot Master Fish Spa, fish known as Doctor fish are used to clean the feet of people. These fish nibble away at the dead skin in your feet while you relax. The feeling as some say cannot be described and a must try for everyone.

Cute fish spa (Source: Paul Fenwick) 

Here is a review:

Ahh! says my feet after their refreshing 35 mins long fish spa at Foot Master on the 6th Floor of the Berjaya Times Square shopping complex, No. 1 Jalan Imbi.

Yes, it was a relaxing, and somewhat ticklish experience on that hot night in KL, and the surroundings (tropical plants, mirrors and long rectangular tanks where up to 500 fish per tank are residing in - surround a wooden deck) and the women staff were helpful and lovely. Cushions are also supplied. The cost is currently 28 RMs or $9.50 AUD.

It's opened from 10 am - 10 pm daily, and as well as this Garra Rufa Fish Spa (foot skin aqua bio-therapy treatment), where these little fish nibble away dead skin cells on your feet and soles, ankles leaving your skin feeling softer, healthier and refreshed, particularly after hours of walking around KL's 'golden triangle' area. I recommend to try this experience, even if it's only once!

 (Source: Foot Master Fish Spa - Kuala Lumpur ) 

Click here for more information.

Timings: 10:00 to 22:00

Cost- Starts from 10 USD

Address: West Wing, Berjaya Times Square, 6th Floor 1, Kuala Lumpur

I hope the itinerary I made was helpful and according to your budget. If you want information on better hotel options or vegetarian restaurants in both Singapore and KL, do write back to us.

Hope you have a wonderful time on your trip.

Cheers,

Sumeet


May 15, 2011  •  Like   •  Add comment   •  Ask question


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