A look at the tallest buildings in the world – Part 4

The issue of tall buildings has proved contentious over the years. It is little wonder the whole debate has arisen since it’s fuelled by an undetermined measuring criteria that for years couldn’t decide whether the roof or the spire was the highest point of a building or indeed what differentiates a building from a tower.

The confusing issue led to many quarrels over which building was tallest, and more recently, those debates have been between various countries. For the better part of the 20th century America led the way for tall buildings, structures and towers. But since 1996 (when the Petronas Twin Towers opened in Kuala Lumpur), Asia has competed for skyline space.

The Council for Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), who maintain the definitive guide to super-structures decided on a four-part criteria for measuring and therefore differentiating between tall buildings, towers and structures. This was based on the way the top of buildings were measured. For example, the newly opened Shanghai World Financial Centre has an occupied floor that exceeds the height of Taipei 101’s highest occupied floor, however, both Taipei 101 and Sears Tower are taller based on the height between ground level and their highest point. This is because both Sears and Taipei have antennas on their roofs that further their height. Instantly, you can begin to see where the confusion lies.

The CTBUH tried to simplify things. Therefore they define tall buildings by a four-part criteria first and then on usage determining type. A “building” has to have over 50% of occupied, usable floor space; below 50% and it is defined as a “tower”. Once a building or tower is defined, its height is then measured either to its architectural top, its highest occupied floor, its roof, or to the highest tip.

The CTBUH view the architectural top as including spires and other aesthetic design elements but not antennas, signage or flag poles. This is the most common way lists of tall buildings are compiled. The highest occupied floor has to be continually in-use by patrons or employees. The height of the roof doesn’t take into consideration spires or antennas measuring to the highest roof level, while the highest tip measures to the uppermost point regardless of architectural design, antenna or occupied floor space. We therefore get a few buildings vying for the tallest as they each have individual traits that single them out.

Until recently, Taipei 101 was the tallest building in all four categories

Language tips for traveling in Malaysia – Part 1

Most Malaysians speak at least two languages, mainly Bahasa Melayu and their own mother tongue, predominately many dialects of Chinese and Tamil, a south Indian language. But in this multi-cultural tropical country, it would be no surprise to know that several speak all three and of course English.

Although English is spoken widely and remains the language of commerce, banking and international trade, the national language is, however, Bahasa Melayu. It is essential to know some useful yet simple phrases as you navigate away from ultra-modern cities of Kuala Lumpur, Penang to smaller outskirt towns and exotic paradise along its coastline. Locals are more than helpful and accommodating if you speak to them in Bahasa Melayu, no matter how poorly. Your efforts will be much appreciated.

As a fluent speaker of Bahasa Melayu, I have prepared a short list of common phrases and words which I believe will make your travelling easy.

Could you help me?

Bolehkah awak tolong saya?

I come from…

Saya datang dari…

I’m on holiday.

Saya sedang bercuti.

I have no small change.

Saya tidak ada duit kecil.

I want to make a phone call.

Saya mahu membuat panggilan telefon.

Can I have more…

Boleh tambah lagi…

Please show me the way to…

Tolong tunjukkan saya arah ke…

This food is delicious.

Makanan ini lazat.

How much is it?

Berapakah harganya?

Please give me a receipt.

Tolong beri saya resit.

Where is the toilet?

Di mana tandas?

Good morning

Selamat pagi

Good afternoon

Selamat tengahari

Good evening

Selamat petang

Good night

Selamat malam

Thank you

Terima kasih

Money changer

Pengurup wang

At restaurants, ordering of food is not much of a problem as most menus are illustrated. But just to have a feel of local terms used or maybe to impress a business associate, you can use these words below as a guide.

Eat

Makan

Drink

Minum

Rice

Nasi

Bread

Roti

Vegetables

Sayur

Fish

Ikan

Beef

Daging lembu

Chicken

Ayam

Prawn

Udang

Coffee

Kopi

Tea

Teh

Sugar

Gula

I would advise my foreign friends to carry a pocket sized calculator and use it to indicate amount that they are willing to pay at shopping malls. It saves you from unnecessary miscommunication and price haggling. This is one trick I use when travelling to places where language is a huge barrier.

One

Satu

Two

Dua

Three

Tiga

Four

Empat

Five

Lima

Six

Enam

Seven

Tujuh

Eight

Lapan

Nine

Sembilan

Ten

Sepuluh

One Hundred

Seratus

One Thousand

Seribu

There is so much more to the list but for the meantime, it should be able to see you through your holidays in Malaysia. You can also choose to get a handy phrase guide at your local bookstore or online.

What to know about traveling in Malaysia

So you are coming to Malaysia for a business trip or to relax. Which ever it may be, you would like to know what to look forward to and what to bring along.

Firstly, if you are a resident of any of the commonwealth nations then you may enter Malaysia for 90 days without having to get a visitors permit. Arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) might be a confusing experience, because of the language used on most of the directories not being in English. But not to worry, the people in Malaysia are very friendly and eager to help. Getting a taxi at the airport is very easy, or you can use the monorail to get to the city. KLIA is 65 kilometers south of the city, so taking a taxi to your hotel is much easier. Before you board your airplane to Malaysia you should exchange some money for the local currency, which is the Malaysian Ringgit. The currency exchangers at the airport self is a bit more expensive. So be advised.

Now you are here. What is there to do? Kuala Lumpur, or KL like the locals like to call it, has got everything you will need. The main past times in Malaysia is definitely dining and shopping. There is ample shopping malls, many fine restaurants, and if you are the type that is more into finding out what the locals are like then you should really try one of the many street food stalls. The temperatures in KL is hot and humid, so even the Malaysians try to stay out of the sun during the day. Therefore when night time arrives, the city is a buzz with people.

Places to visit in KL is the Petronas Twin Towers, KL Tower, Batu Caves, Petaling Street and Genting Highlands which is just an hours drive away and many buses travel there from the city each day. Other places to visit in Malaysia is Langkawi, which is situated in the north of the country.

If you are going to hire a car be sure that you have an international driving license together with your own countries driving license. Driving in Malaysia might look scary at first, but it is something to get accustomed to. Watch out for the many motorbikes. They swerve in and between the cars, so you have to keep a look out for them when changing lanes. Always have a map with you and money. Its very easy to get lost on the roads in and around KL and there are many tollgates on the roads. When paying with money at the tollgates, head for the gates to the left. Those that have yellow or blue signs above them is not for cash payment.

Most of the hotels and taxi’s do have air conditioning, but if you are going to be outside please be sure to carry fluids with you and sunblock. The sun is not very forgiving in South East Asia.

The spoken language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia, Cantonese, Mandarin and English. Most Malaysians do understand and can speak English, but with a very heavy accent. Be patient and ask again if you didn’t understand anything they say.

Hopefully you will never get sick or injured when traveling through Malaysia, but if the scenario arises you will be in good hands. There are many clinics that are well equipped and inexpensive.

Bufori: Handcrafted cars

I’m in the market for a car. I’m not a petrol head. In fact, cars have never really interested me, much. I’m the typical, female stereotype when it comes to driving. As long as my car gets me from A to B without any hassles and isn’t a petrol-guzzler, that’s all that matters. I generally don’t care about torque, accessories or whatever’s under the bonnet.

That is until recently, when I stumbled on a “For Sale” ad for a BUFORI. I have to admit that it was love at first sight. I was instantly smitten.

As a hopelessly romantic teenager, I soaked up every word of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” believing, like so many other wistful readers, that we were born in the wrong era. I guess the story appealed to the 1930’s “Daisy” in me – those heady, pre-WW11 days of hedonistic pleasure reserved solely for the gratification of the idle rich.

BUFORIs are magnificent cars. They are lovingly handcrafted in the classic styles of a bygone era when motoring was an enjoyable, unhurried and simple pastime.

The BUFORI was conceived in Sydney in 1986 by George Khouri who decided to build his own sports car. His dream was not only realized with the construction of his first car, the “BUFORI Madison,” but George also built one for each of his brothers, Gerry and Anthony. The boys joined forces and a unique and distinct car manufacturing industry was born. In 1990, BUFORI was the only car manufacturer endorsed to carry the “Australian Made” logo. However, in 1992, the brothers were encouraged by the Malaysian Prime Minister, YM Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed to relocate their successful manufacturing operation to Kuala Lumpur. BUFORI moved to Malaysia and produced its first Malaysian model (the MK11) in 1999. In October 2008, the Bufori was chosen by Ralph Laurent as an additional drawcard for the launch of his new perfume “Notorious” at various shopping malls across Malaysia. The Bufori La JOYA was also showcased at the Australian International Motor Show in Darling Harbour, Sydney in October this year.

BUFORIs are stylishly similar to American 1930’s coupes, however they are not copies or reproductions of these classic roadsters. Each BUFORI is individually and exclusively handmade with the emphasis on state-of-the-art technology, uncompromising luxury, comfort and driving pleasure. The cars can be tailored to suit the individual specifications and requirements of the buyer and are painstakingly custom built by an expert team of 110 employees.

Experience the Beauty of Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is one of the most wonderful destinations in Malaysia, and is a great way to escape from the hustles and bustles of Kuala Lumpur. Perched at an altitude of about 1822 meters, Cameron Highlands is the largest as well as the most serene of all the hill resorts in the country.

Apart from being one of the most prominent tourist spots, Cameron Highlands is also credited to be leading producer of flowers as well as agricultural produces such as tomatoes and lettuce in the country. No wonder why Cameron Highlands is sometimes referred to as the ‘Green Bowl of Malaysia.’ Located in the northwest corner in the state of Penang, about 300 kilometers away from Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands is much favored for its breathtaking scenery, comprising majestic mountain peaks, soothing mountain air, stunning waterfalls, incredible tea plantations, miles of strawberry and other fruit farms, and beautiful flower gardens.

The charm of this hill resort was first discovered by a British surveyor, William Cameron, in 1885. As a result, Cameron Highlands became one of the South-East Asia’s most popular hill resorts during the colonial period. Later, on realizing the healthy climate and the richness and fertility of the mountain slopes, the British planters choose this area to grow tea and agricultural produce. Even today, the hill resort retains its charm and glory of an English Village.

Among the key attractions in Cameron Highlands are:

Rose Center and Rose Valley – Rose center is the biggest of its kind in the country, with a great selection of roses. When comes to the Rose Valley, it boasts of about 500 varieties of roses, such as, thorn less rose, green rose, and black rose. Additionally, a good number of other flowers including gerberas, lily, camellia, honeysuckle, gypsy flower, and much more, can be seen here. Above all, don’t forget to climb atop the peak of the Rose Center to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Kea Farm valley coupled with terraced farms.

Butterfly Garden and Butterfly Farm – Both of them are located within easy reach of the Kea Farm. They are a great place to view such rare species of butterflies as the Raja Brooke butterfly, which in turn is regarded as the national butterfly of the country.

Cactus Valley: It boasts of a great variety of rare cactus, among which some are more than 50 years old. A variety of other crops are also cultivated here adopting hydroponics technique, such as strawberries, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Honey Bee Apiary Farms: Cameron Highlands is home to a number of apiary farms, of which perhaps the most popular ones are Ee Feng Gu honey bee farm and Habu Bee Farm.

Agrotechnology Park: Sprawling over an area of about 45 hectares, Agrotechnology Park is a botanical garden, with a large species of temperate plants and crops. Modeled on the basis of the British Kew Garden and Agro Dome in New Zealand, the park is worth a visit. It is categorized into several sections such as English Garden, Orchid Garden, Herb Garden, Rose Garden, and Research Center.

Multicrops Central Market: This is a one-stop center to shop all such items as pots, flowers, vegetables, and souvenirs.

Cameron Highlands Golf Course: Situated between Tanah Rata and Brinchang, this is an 18-hole par – 71 golf course. With rolling fairways, delicate greens, and meandering streams, the course is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
Boh Tea Plantation: Founded by J.A. Russel, a British merchant, in 1929, Boh Tea Plantation holds the distinction of being the largest manufacturer of black tea in Malaysia.

Sam Poh Temple: Erected in 1972, Sam Poh is one of the largest temples in the country. The temple is dedicated to the Chinese Muslim eunuch as well as the admiral of the Chinese fleet, Zheng He.

List of attractions in Cameron Highlands also include a number of strawberry firms such as Kasimani’s Strawberry Farm and Healthy Strawberry Farm; Parit Falls, Lata Iskandar Waterfalls, Robinson Falls, Taman Unc Sam, Time Tunnel, Kuala Who hot springs, and Night Market. Additionally, people touring the destination can engage in a number of activities such as jungle trekking, mountain hiking, shopping, camping, and golf.

In order to cater to the needs of the growing number of tourists to the destination, Cameron Highlands has a number of accommodation options to choose from such as hotels and resorts to apartments and chalets. Let it be of any type, an accommodation choice in the area is replete with almost all that are required to make your vacation enjoyable as well as unforgettable.

Malaysia Hotels Make Sure They Offer Lodging Experience

Attracting scores to tourists and visitors to its land every year the country of Malaysia is among the most prominent South Asian nation. Malaysia is located on the Asian peninsula and Borneo Island. Both culturally and historically rich this land makes for a great tourist destination. It is not without a reason that Malaysia has been increasingly attracting vacationers from the entire world over. Tourism in Malaysia has been booming on the past years. And hence Malaysia Hotels make sure they offer a lodging experience to its visitors and guests that it makes them bowled over its services and standards.

Some of the major tourist destination in Malaysia includes:

Kuala Lumpur

The city of Kuala Lumpur is the largest and the capital city of Malaysia. The city is the chief hub of financial, administrative and cultural life of the country. Extremely high on arts, architecture sports and recreation the Kuala Lumpur offers amazing entertainment options to the visitors and tourists. The buildings in the city are a blend of Islamic and Moorish architecture style and are truly awe inspiring. Among the many interesting sights are Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur’s Central Market, Genting Highlands and not to miss the Petronas Twin Towers that prides itself for being the world tallest twin towers in the world.

Langkawi

The island of Langkawi is a union of 99 islands in the Sea of Andaman. Located in the neighborhood of northwestern Peninsular of Malaysia, Langkawi belong to the Kedah State of Malaysia. The largest island of Langkawi is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi. Boasting of the scenic views of mountains of Peninsular Malaysia, this island is dotted with gorgeous sandy beaches, verdant woodland and pristine lakes among others.

Penang

The city of Penang in Malaysia is very mesmerizing and interesting. The pretty Georgetown of Penang houses some of the every finest architectural splendors of colonial era. Forever reverberating with fun and frolic, the ambience and locales of Penang is exceedingly bewitching. Enjoy strolling around the town, shopping in the colossally huge malls, and digging out on the delicious food of Penang. In the city one of the best things to indulge oneself into are fishing, exploring the vivid culture of China and of course walking around the lush jungle of Penang.

Malacca

The city of Malacca in Malaysia is also known as the Historical State. Although Malacca is small state it is among the best known holiday spot. Being a sea side city of Malaysia, Malacca is dotted with beautiful resorts. Rich in cultural and tradition, this city is very different from the other ultra modern cities of Malaysia. The architecture of the city is highly influenced by Portuguese style architecture. But when it comes to avenues and markets of Malacca you would realizes that there is a bit of Chinese ambience to it.

Accommodation in Malaysia is easy to find. Besides lodging Hotels in Malaysia you may even opt for private apartments, inns, hostels and lodges. Falling in different categories and price brackets hotels in Malaysia are excellent.

Australian Grand Prix

The Australian Grand Prix is one of the most exciting events held in Australia every year, with thousands of spectators viewing exciting Formula One racing and flat-out speeds experienced in Melbourne, Australia.

The World Championship event Formula One race, held every March, has been delighting spectators since 1996, when the Australian Grand Prix hit the race circuit calendars. It hasn’t slowed down since. Not only does the racing event draw thousands of travelers and visitors from around Australia, but around the world as well, and every visitor is rewarded with more than just a car race.

Australia, especially Melbourne, Australia’s second largest city, has much to offer visitors, including great weather, friendly people and world-class restaurants, hotels and amusements. Melbourne also offers a laid back atmosphere that caters to any budget. Visitors who come to see the now world-famous Formula One racing event often stay to enjoy the vistas, foods and sites that Australia has to offer.

For racing fans, the Australian Grand Prix is part of a Formula One racing circuit that includes the United States’ Indianapolis 500, the Malaysian Grand Prix in Kuala Lumpur, the Grand Premio de España Telefónica in Catalunya and warms up audiences for the ultimate in Formula One racing in Monaco with the Monaco Grand Prix held at the end of May 25-27 of 2007. The Monaco Grand Prix has gained the reputation of being the ultimate in Formula One racing as the most difficult and prestigious of the circuit. That one event within the Formula One racing circuit draws more people every year to a principality that is known for brilliant sunshine, fantastic beaches and unequalled luxury.

The Australian Grand Prix racing event takes place over several days and starts the annual Formula One World Championship. Held in the Albert Park, the site has long been popular with native Australian racing fans since the 1950s, and the race is viewed by millions of racing fans around the world. Known for its love of sports, Melbourne offers events and entertainments to suit any taste, all in an atmosphere known for its blend of rugged history and ‘Outback’ serenity with the newest and most popular in business and technology.

Pricing for event tickets are fantastic and offer visitors the choice of three different ticket pricing ranges and grandstands or flat grassland to enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the world’s greatest racing events. The Australian blue sky and warm weather offers world travelers a respite to brutal winters elsewhere, and Melbourne nightlife offers treats and events to visitors who want to enjoy everything Australia has to offer after the engines have cooled and it’s time to relax and enjoy the ambience.

Thousands of travelers flock to Melbourne every year to witness the spectacular Australian Grand Prix and are also treated to the Carrera Cup, the Celebrity Challenge and the Aussie Racing Cars, as well as a myriad of events and entertainments that take place away from the asphalt and racing grounds. Melbourne pulls out the red carpet for this yearly event, and everyone is welcome to the Land Down Under for exquisite landscapes, great food and more than enough entertainment to please anyone.

This year’s race was won by Kimi Raikkonen in a Ferrari, but the Finnish driver’s exploits didn’t make as many headlines as debutant British driver Lewis Hamilton who finsihed third, the best Formula 1 debut for years.

The four days that cover the Australian Grand Prix provide spectators, no matter where they sit, with the fastest, loudest and most gifted Formula One race car drivers in the world as they rev their engines and prepare to battle for position on the track. Off track, tourists can enjoy the seashore or venture inland to see exotic wildlife, mingle with native Australians and enjoy the great outdoors in a land that offers a blend rustic ruggedness and the finest in luxury.

If you missed the Australian Grand Prix in 2007, make sure you clear your calendar for next year’s Formula One racing event, as the Australian Grand Prix is an experience that everyone should enjoy at least once in their lives.

Gold Rush on Gold Coast, Queensland

Queensland’s Gold Coast, Australia looks set to continue its recent growth: the announcement of a $100 million airport facelift will be coping with the ever-increasing demand for tourism, business and investment into the area.  Experts predict the population will grow by over 50% in the next 15 years and, along with a shortage of quality real estate in the area, prices can only be going one way…

Propertyshowrooms.com Business and Media Manager, Peter Mindenhall, said, “After analysis of the company’s traffic figures for the beginning of the year, the interest in our property in Australia has increased dramatically:  enquiries for January were up by over 125% on the monthly average for last year, with most of the enquiries coming in for Queensland´s Gold Coast and Sydney.”

“The main focus however appears to be on The Gold Coast which is currently enjoying a $42 Billion wave of new development – up from $23 Billion in 2002! The Gold Coast experiences 277 days of sunshine with an average of 27°C. As more people discover this great lifestyle and the massive new development currently underway, valuable investment opportunities are presenting themselves in such an environment of continued growth and real stability.”

Real Estate

The future of the Gold Coast does indeed look bright: the growth of the area in the last five years has been nothing short of astonishing and this is reflected in the local housing market. Quality beachfront property on the Gold Coast is becoming less affordable and more difficult to obtain due to unwavering and ever increasing demand and a rapidly decreasing supply, where properties are being sold out practically on release.

Luxury agent Pacific Lifestyle Property said recently “The Gold Coast beachfront apartment market is very strong and a lack of supply is driving prices skywards. Demand for such luxury property is compounding beachfront growth rates much faster than their surrounding areas”. 

Surfing meccas such as Greenmount Beach and Kirra have been targeted by ambitious developers, eager to stamp their mark on these emerging areas. One project recently released, Nivana by the sea at Kirra Beach sold out its initial release properties in record time, reiterating the desire for beachfront property and the fact that developments are, in some areas, being purchased quicker than they can be built.

Luxury hotel living is also luring buyers in their droves to the Hilton surfers paradise project, with an average of $1.7 million a day being laid on the table for a piece of the Gold Coast high life.  The high-rise developer has locked in sales worth $120 million for the first stage after just 10 weeks of marketing!

Marina berths

Property isn’t the only thing in short supply either: the surging demand for marina berths are pushing leasing rates sky high as marina owners cash in on an undersupply situation.  Research by Colliers International reported in the Gold Coast Business News shows the imbalance between supply and demand is approaching crisis point, beyond which even wealthy boat owners are finding themselves unable to secure a berth due to the severe shortage of stock.  “The Gold Coast remains one of Australia’s favourite boating destinations, however owning a boat and having it moored in a marina over the next decade could prove a lifestyle for a fortunate few,” says Tim Holmes of Colliers International’s Gold Coast office.

“Price may not be a problem for some people, but availability certainly is.  Already we have seen how the lack of supply is driving prices up, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Brisbane, where waterfront house and land is diminishing and people are being placed on long waiting lists for public marina berths. 

“With current legislation banning further canal developments in Queensland, we can only expect this trend to continue,” say Colliers.  In fact, Queensland Transport figures suggest boat ownership in Queensland is growing at a rate of 6% per annum — faster than the State’s population growth. Boat registrations topped 200,000 in January 2006, and a further 100,000 Queensland boat registrations is expected in the next eight years, in line with a trend towards larger and more luxurious watercraft.

Holmes says Gold Coast marina berths are already “far from the cheapest’, with 8m berths ranging from $520 to $800 a month, depending on the facilities and location. Along with real estate and shares, marina berths are a sought-after investment, with many people now looking toward the northern Gold Coast where canal developments are common. Riverfront developments which offer private berth facilities to residents at high quality, secure on-site berths are increasingly popular.”

Airport Expansion

The new look airport will almost double in size, with the capacity to handle twice as many passengers travelling to Australia as current levels.  It will feature 36 check-in terminals and a massive shopping and entertainments precinct. The expansion will of course help increase interest in the Gold Coast, providing greater accessibility for tourism and property investment alike.

But with passenger numbers growing at 8%per year, some experts are already warning it could be back to the drawing board soon, as the airport owners map out the next phase for the facility which could include air bridges.  The Gold Coast Tourism chairman has announced that the current terminal will be expanded from 14,000sqm to 26,000sqm, with the project due for completion by September 2009.

Gold Coast Airport boss, Paul Donovan, lifted the lid on upgrade plans with the preliminary work set to begin next month:

Paul Donovan said the new airport, which received federal government funding last year to serve the Gold Coast for the next 10 years, “We certainly believe we have the right model for the Gold Coast.”  He continued, “Our city is leading the way for Australian destinations and the continued involvement and investment by companies such as Tiger Airways demonstrates a real confidence in the future of our city,”

It´s no surprise to see the airport expanding as last year saw Tiger Air and AirAsia X start flying in and out of the airport, joining Qantas, Jetstar, Jetstar International, Air New Zealand, Virgin Blue and Pacific Blue. In December, a record 374 passengers used the airport, while last year some 3.9 million passed through the terminal.  Meanwhile, it was reported recently in the Gold Coast Business News that the AirAsia X service to the Gold Coast from Malaysia will inject around $50 million into the local economy.  Based on a proposed three flights per week from Kuala Lumpur, the airline is set to have a significant impact on the region’s business, conference and accommodation sectors.  Tourism Minister, Margaret Keech, says, “I’m confident the Gold Coast will be a winner. The Gold Coast is well suited as an initial Australian destination, being a natural fit with AirAsia X’s focus on leisure travellers,”

In fact, in just five years, Gold Coast Airport has jumped two spots in the rankings and is now the sixth busiest airport in Australia in terms of passenger numbers. 

AirAsia X is a new, long-haul budget airline set to launch flights in the coming months to cities in China, India, the UK and Europe. Its arrival in Australia coincides with low-cost carrier Tiger Airways, which has timed its inaugural flight into the Coast with the peak summer holiday season in November.
Tiger Air will fly 29 weekly direct services from Melbourne into Rockhampton, Mackay and the Gold Coast, competing with Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar for a slice of the budget carrier market.
Gold Coast Airport chief operating officer Paul Donovan says the inclusion of the Asian airline reinforces the increasing appeal of the Gold Coast in the market place and demonstrates the potential organisations such as Tiger Airways see in the growth of the destination.
All in all, the Gold Coast appears to moving in the right direction on all fronts:  the expansion of the airport, growing tourism, a stable economy and a supply of property that is unable to meet with current demand make it a fantastic place to invest as well as live in.  Historically, to make the most of any gold rush, you have to be in the right place at the right time.  In Gold Coast property terms, that time appears to be now.

Malaysia – Essential Visits

Located in South East Asia, bordering Thailand in the north and Singapore in the south, Malaysia achieved its independence from British rule on the 31st of August 1957. With a population of approximately 23.5 million (58% Malays, 24% Chinese, 8% Indians and 10% others), Malaysia is rich in differing cultures and traditions. The uniqueness of Malaysia is that all these differing religions live alongside each other in harmony and peace.

You may be asking “What’s there to do in Malaysia?”. Malaysia offers natural beauties in tropical rainforest, scuba diving; Shopping haven in all major cities; Friendly citizens across the country. Whatever you want to do, ranging from being a potatoe couch at the hotel to extreme adventures, Malaysia has it all.

Having said that, I will now point out to you the essential visits that you should take part in order to make your trip whole (in no particular order):

Petronas Twin Towers

Towering at a height of 452 metres (1483 feet), the Petronas Twin Towers is the highest twin towers in the world. Built to 88 storeys and 32000 windows, the towers are connected via a skybridge. You must book your time to access the skybridge for an excellent birds-eye view of the Kuala Lumpur city. The towers were featured in the movie Entrapment starring Sean Connery and Caterine Zeta Jones. When visiting the towers, take a stroll at the KLCC park (20 hectares or 50 acres) located adjacent to the towers and indulge yourself in shopping at the Suria KLCC located inside the towers.

Pulau Pinang (Penang Island)

Affectionately known as Pearl of the Orient, Penang is famous for its natural beauty and exotic heritage. Located at the northern part of Malaysia, Penang, a bustling island, has a large variety of culture, people and food within the 285 square kilometres enclave. So diversed, you will be able to find churches, Chinese temples, Indian temples and Muslim mosques all within a five minutes walk. Colonial buildings still exist and are constantly being restored to its former glory. When you are at the Pearl of the Orient, you must sample the hawker food found at abundance, take a ferry ride (especially at night) and stroll along the beaches of Batu Ferringi.

Sipadan Island

Located on the north-eastern part of Borneo Island, Sipadan is one of the world’s best dive spots. White sandy beaches borders this 12ha island. The island was formed from a undersea volcano and is raised 650meters from the sea floor. Sipadan is famous for its reef wall, rare reef creatures and the regular appearance of sea turtles. If you are a diver, this is one place that you would not want to miss.

East Coast Islands

On the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, an abundance of idyllic white sandy beaches. To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, hop over to the east coast, put on a sarong, grab yourself a coconut, relax and enjoy the pounding of the waves. Out in the sea, islands such as Perhentian, Tioman and Redang are famous for their dive spots and family getaway.

Cameron Highlands

This 1800 meters above sea level region is a popular getaway from the tropical heat for Malaysians and tourist alike. Cameron Highlands was discovered by a British surveyor named William Cameron in 1885. This highlands resembles England as old English inns, chalets and bungalows still exists today. Attraction in Cameron Highlands includes mountain and jungle hikings, tea plantations, fruits and vegetable farms, flower nurseries and its people. Cameron Highlands has two golf courses if you are game.

Proboscis Monkeys

Living exclusively in Borneo island, proboscis monkeys have the largest nose amongst all primates. Reaching up to 17.5cm long, the reason for the elongated nose is unknown. Another distinctive feature of this unique creature is its pot belly. The proboscis monkey is an endangered species and is listed under the IUCN Red List. Visiting these creatures in its natural habitat is well worth the journey.

About The Author

Mij Gnow is an avid traveller who is infected with the travel bug throughout the year. Weighed down by the corporate world to earn a living, Mij continues to write articles in preparation for his future travels.

Mij is also the creator and administrator of Travel Corridor, http://www.travelcorridor.com; a site containing essential visits around the world.

Travel to Malaysia.

Malaysia is a country of striking natural beauty situated in Southeast Asia, with some of the most superb beaches, mountains and national parks in the world. It consists of thirteen states that are divided into two geographical regions that are separated by the South China Sea.

Malaysia has a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society and is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in Southeast Asia. Contemporary Malaysian society is mainly dominated by the Malay (local) people, but there is a substantial Chinese, Indian and European minority. The official religion is Islam.

Its year round sunshine ensures Malaysia’s growing tourism and it is fast becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. While it does get torrential seasonal rain, this should not turn you off this paradise. Its rainfall is very seasonal and typical of any equatorial climate.

Travelling by air to Malaysia can be very inexpensive with one of the world’s leading low cost carrier, Air Asia, based there. Once you arrive in Malaysia your luxury holiday immediately begins. The high-speed express will get you into Kuala Lumpur in less than thirty minutes.

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, or also known as KL, is an expansive beautiful city with soaring skyscrapers. One hundred years ago Kuala Lumpur was a small mining town attracting workers from China and India. Now it’s fast becoming one of the most sought after holiday destinations in the world.

Kuala Lumpur is now well known as a great shopping destination as well as a great night time spot and entertainment hub. Food in Malaysia varies from the different ethnic regions, rice is the most common food source in Malaysia and is often eaten for breakfast.

The landscape of Malaysia ranges from lush rainforests to towering rocky hills. Its rainforests are full of all types of flora and fauna with over 450 species of birds that are native to the islands of Malaysia. There are also over 160 different species of snake. Other wildlife of Malaysia includes bears, crocodiles, elephants, leopards, monkeys, panthers and rhinoceroses. The Orang-utan, which is one of the world’s most endangered animals is also unique to this part of the world.

Malaysia has over 200 tropical islands making it a refuge for all sorts of water sports. Its tropical resorts are full of white sandy beaches and provide a vast paradise, while beneath the warm tropical waters, a unique world awaits to be explored.

Well worth a visit, and located just outside of the capital city are the Batu Caves. These are huge cathedral-like caves accessible by steps. The caves have a one hundred meter tall chamber and have been used as a Hindu temple for more than a hundred years.

There are many reasons for travelling to Malaysia but a few things that you can always count on are: the excellent climate that you get all year round, the peaceful surroundings that you get all year round, and the great value that Malaysia has to offer.

One of the greatest aspects of life in Malaysia, and especially Kuala Lumpur, is that so many people with different ethnic backgrounds live together in perfect harmony with no racial problems.

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