The Travel Times - September 2018 - KL Issue by Next Trend Publications

SEPTEMBER 2018

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T RAVE L // FAI R // E XT RAS

Korea A Pervasive Sense of Calmness in Korea

ANA Experience World-Class Service with ANA

Sunway Lagoon Sunway Lagoon Serves Up Irresistible Deals

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Beyond the beautiful Australian beaches // TRAVEL //

Mesmerising views that woo visitors

As an island nation, Australia is surrounded by so many stunning beaches. It is easy to get swept away. It truly is the perfect destination for a beach holiday, but it’s certainly not all there is to see and do. Australia also has vibrant lakes, rugged mountains and an exciting range of bucket-list activities to do in its urban areas - and that’s just the beginning. So, dry off and head inland to discover some of these unforgettable experiences.

Discover Canberra in bloom during Floriade

Australia’s event calendar is packed with exciting options no matter where your travels take you across the country. If you’re visiting in September or October, don’t miss a trip to the nation’s capital when Canberra is blanketed in over one million blooms. The largest flower festival in the Southern Hemisphere, Floriade includes an exciting program of horticulture workshops, music and entertainment. Night owls will also love Floriade NightFest, with illuminated flower beds and night-time entertainment. Entry to see the flowers is free for the entire month, making it the perfect family and budgetfriendly day out.

Capture Tasmania’s vibrant natural scenery

Tasmania is home to countless incredible backdrops, making it a favourite destination for professional and amateur photographers alike. In the summer months (December to February), Instagram is flooded with images of vibrant rows of purple lavender found on farms dotting the state’s east coast - some of which stretch for up to 200 kilometres! These working farms make a stunning backdrop for an Instagram post, but your visit isn’t limited to snapping pictures. You’ll also find fragrant soaps, hand cream, tea and lavender flavoured ice-cream to enjoy. If you’re visiting Tasmania in autumn, you’re not out of luck. Head to Cradle Mountain to see what locals refer to as “the turning of the Fagus”, when the Tasmanian Deciduous Beech tree transforms from green to vibrant reds, oranges and golds.

Explore Australia’s undiscovered nature

Some of Australia’s most spectacular natural attractions are hidden gems, tucked away from the country’s coastlines. These awe-inspiring landscapes were forged millions of years ago and offer a peek at Australia’s Aboriginal history, challenging (but rewarding) treks, wildlife, starfilled skies and a chance to connect with nature in a way that few get to experience. The Grampians National Park is just three hours from Melbourne yet feels worlds away. The area is famous for quality red wines, hiking trails and Aboriginal history. The craggy peaks and rocky gorges of South Australia’s Flinders Ranges require a five-hour road trip from Adelaide but are well worth the journey. Explore

the 100-kilometre crater that is Wilpena Pound on a scenic flight, taste kangaroo and emu at an outback pub, and glamp under the stars at Arkaba Station.

Snap a pic of Australia’s colourful lakes

The stunning blues and greens of Australia’s coast are a crowd favourite, but if you’re looking for something different, take a trip to see one of the country’s colourful lakes. Australia’s Golden Outback has bubblegum pink lakes that are a photographer’s dream. Lake Hillier is the most famous of the pink lakes and can be found near Esperance in Western Australia. The region is also home to Lake Ballard, a shimmering salt lake near Kalgoorlie that features a permanent art installation of 51 metal statues. In South Australia you can find Lake Eyre, the world’s largest ephemeral lake. Containing water or not, it’s a phenomenal sight of swirling colours, best seen from above on a scenic flight.

Soar above the hinterlands in a hot air balloon

Heading inland from the coast will lead you to discover Australia’s hinterlands. Quaint towns, lush rainforests and wine regions make for the perfect backdrop when you explore from above. In a hot air balloon, you can soar above the clouds and watch the sunrise over the countryside. In Canberra, your flight will take you above the city where you can spot Parliament House and other attractions. In the Hunter Valley near Sydney or Yarra Valley near Melbourne, you’ll float above perfectly manicured vineyards before descending to a champagne breakfast. It’s an exhilarating and romantic way to start your day. 1 Be dazzled by the diverse natural attractions in The Grampians 2 Hot air ballooning in Canberra 3 Lavender fields in Tasmania will take your breath away 4 Australia’s famous pink Lake Hillier is a sight to behold

If you think Australia is not a foodie destination, think again! // TRAVEL //

Tease your taste buds with food that appeals to every palate

Australia’s local cuisine is influenced by a variety of factors that work together to create some of the most celebrated food experiences on Earth. Dine on extraordinary seafood, imbibe on award-winning wines, raise your glass to an extraordinary view or try one of the world’s best whiskies: it’s all on offer in Australia.

Have a seafood adventure, from ocean to plate

Australia is home to some of the world’s most pristine waters – one major reason why Australian seafood has a global reputation for excellence. If you’re keen to sample some of Australia’s best seafood, start at Sydney Fish Market - an iconic local attraction in Sydney where visitors flock daily to see the bountiful supplies of fresh fish. Alternatively, head to nearby restaurants like multi-award-winning Saint Peter, which showcases Australia’s sustainable approach to sourcing and eating local delicacies like marron and Sydney rock oysters. On Tasmania’s beautiful eastern coast, at luxury lodge Saffire Freycinet or Freycinet Marine Farm, you can even pluck your own oysters and eat them directly from the sea. Or head to the Kimberley to experience the traditional hunt for mud crab with Indigenous custodian Brian Lee. 4

Get hands on

Food always tastes better when you’ve had a hand in creating it. And there are plenty of opportunities to get hands-on food experiences in Australia’s pristine growing regions. They present not only a great way to get a taste of rural life but the chance to meet farmers who’ve lived on the land for generations. Try picking a tree-ripened apple at Rayner’s Orchard in Victoria’s fertile Yarra Valley or plucking fresh berries from the bush at Hillwood Berry Farm in Launceston in northern Tasmania. In the Margaret River region of Western Australia, stay at Burnside Organic Farm, and wander around their organic vegetable gardens, picking as you go, or head to Manjimup and take the dogs out in search of the prized black truffle.

Australian food and wine festivals

Australians celebrate their local produce and worldfamous wines with a wide range of festivals. One of which is the annual Margaret River Gourmet Escape in November. A highlight is the Gourmet Beach BBQ where you’ll dine on the shores of the Indian Ocean and enjoy cocktails, canapés and local produce cooked on the fiery grill as Castle Rock Beach at Dunsborough transforms into a stylishly laid-back waterfront restaurant. The weeklong Taste of Tasmania festival in summer the ultimate way to enjoy the sunshine on Hobart’s waterfront. Dozens of stalls offer the best of local produce, accompanied by more than 100 street performers and musicians. The festival coincides with New Year’s Eve, adding to the atmosphere. 1 Memorable encounters at the annual Margaret River Gourmet Escape 2 Unforgettable alfresco dining 3 Oyster shucking in Saffire 4 Pick your own produce

Live an island dream

Tasmania might be best known for its pristine wilderness, but it’s also home to some of the world’s best whisky distillers, including Lark Distillery. Established in 1992, Lark’s Cellar Door & Whisky Bar (located in Hobart) offers several memorable whisky tasting experiences. You may also wish to discover Nant, located at Bothwell in the Central Highlands (an hour north of Hobart), or travel to Burnie on the island’s northern coast, where celebrated Hellyers Road Distillery offers behind-thescenes tours. Tasmania’s success in distilling isn’t limited to whisky, either; with Hartshorn’s burgeoning reputation for craft gin – not to mention vodka made using sheep whey – the island has become a hot destination for spirit connoisseurs of several kinds.

Dine al fresco, Australian style

Year-round sunshine, picturesque locations and a laidback local lifestyle: it’s perhaps not surprising Australia has developed a strong culture of al fresco dining. As a visitor, you’ll benefit from restaurants in memorable places, where the view is often an integral part of the dining experience. In subtropical Brisbane, experience a cosmopolitan mix of eateries by the waterfront, such as Jellyfish, Customs House and Hello Please. In Perth you’ll find breakfast on the balcony at Bib & Tucker or lunch overlooking the Indian Ocean at Odyssea. Alternatively, take to one of the many rooftop dining locations in Melbourne – Rooftop at QT might be a good place to start. You can also choose to break away from the city entirely, experiencing outdoor dining with an element of adventure via the likes of Fervor in Western Australia.

// TRAVEL //

Ultimate Aussie Night Tours // TRAVEL //

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down! From gorgeous beaches and scenic walking trails to captivating museums and infamous attractions, Australia has plenty of excitement and entertainment to fill your days. Just make sure you reserve a little energy for exploring the best the country has to offer after the sun goes down.

Explore Australia’s cities by night

Australia’s cities are buzzing every night of the week offering night owls the chance to take part in fun and exciting experiences. See the sun set over the skyline from a trendy rooftop bar, hit up a live music venue to watch the newest up-and-coming band take the stage or enjoy a classic indoor activity (theatre, opera or cinema) at an outdoor venue. Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour offers an unforgettable evening of song, dance and fireworks, with the sparkling Sydney Harbour as its backdrop. See the sun set over the skyline from a trendy rooftop bar, hit up a live music venue to watch the newest up-and-coming band take the stage or enjoy a classic indoor activity (theatre, opera or cinema) at an outdoor venue. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a balmy summer evening.

See the reef at night

Think you can only enjoy the Great Barrier Reef in the light of day? Well, think again! One of the most unique experiences on the reef is Reefsleep Experience, and it’s

also one of the best ways to get the reef all to yourself. Cruise Whitsundays takes small groups of visitors to its Reefworld platform for a full day of snorkelling, diving, boat and helicopter rides. When the daytrippers and other tours head back to shore at 3pm, Reefsleepers get to stay on for more swimming, dinner and a possible night dive. When the stars come out you’ll snuggle into a swag (a low tent with an in-built mattress, designed for the Australian outback) to sleep in peace.

See the cities light up at Vivid and Enlighten

Australia’s cities love to put on a show, and autumn and winter are the best times to see spectacular displays in Sydney and Canberra. In March, the country’s capital comes to life after the sun goes down with incredible illuminations across the city for Enlighten. The Parliamentary Triangle is transformed into a vibrant arts precinct with free installations, live music and performances all set against a backdrop of stunning architectural projections. In May and June, Sydney transforms into an interactive canvas of brilliant light installations and projections. Vivid Sydney impresses as the Sydney Opera House, Customs House, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Taronga Zoo Sydney are illuminated in brilliant colour

2 1 Enjoy Australia’s thriving rooftop bars 2 Look up at Australia’s beautiful night sky 3 Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour 4 Tasmania’s stunning Southern Lights

and moving images. The programme also includes bigticket music performances, creative conferences, talks and workshops.

Gaze at the wonder of an outback night sky There’s something truly magical about getting away from the city to connect with nature, and Australia’s outback is the perfect place to stop, be silent and take it all in. The night sky is one of the most impressive features, as billions of stars are visible and bright enough to see with the naked eye. Learning how to locate the Southern Cross, a famous constellation visible in Australia, and listening to Aboriginal stories and legends of the night sky is one of outback Australia’s most special experiences.

See the Southern Lights

Another spectacular display to look out for once the sun goes down are the Southern Lights, known as the Aurora Australis. Your best chance at spotting the phenomenon is to head south to Tasmania. While they can be seen (with the right weather conditions and a bit of luck) at any time of year, they are most common in winter. So, pay a visit to Tassie between May and August for your best chance at gazing upon the gorgeous waves of green, purple, blue and red.

Awe-inspiring, spectacular and mysterious journeys through Australia’s Outback // TRAVEL //

Choose your own adventure in unique landscapes If your image of the outback is limited to vast stretches of flat land and red dirt, you’re missing the best of this unique destination. The outback is a region that is as diverse as it is expansive, with stunning rock formations, refreshing waterholes, unforgettable events and a strong Aboriginal culture.

Lose yourself in a field of light

Even after the sun goes down there’s plenty to see and do around Uluru. The award-winning exhibition Field of Light will be on show until 2020. The outdoor installation, aptly named Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku or ‘looking at lots of beautiful lights’ in local Pitjantjatjara, sees more than 50,000 solar-powered stems light up at sunset and glow throughout the night. In keeping with the desert’s vast scale, the brightly coloured light stems cover an area the size of four football fields. Explore it on your own or join a tour to see the sunset over the twinkling lights while you sip champagne and nibble canapes.

Immerse yourself in the world’s oldest living culture

Australia’s Aboriginal culture is one of the oldest on the planet. It is a culture rich in history and the best way to experience it is at one of the many festivals held around the country each year. You’ll be a welcome guest at these community events where ancient stories and traditions are passed down to the next generation. Head to the Garma festival in Arnhem Land where Aboriginal elders meet with politicians, business leaders and policy makers alongside a packed itinerary of music, arts and cultural events. Tjungu is a four-day festival held at Ayers Rock Resort where you can taste traditional bush foods, enjoy a short film festival and dance to traditional and contemporary Aboriginal bands. Over three days on the long weekend in June, Barunga Festival has dancing, 3

live music (traditional and modern), art shows, cultural workshops, a circus, and lots of sport.

Go underground in Coober Pedy

In the desert of the South Australian outback, in one of Australia’s hottest climates, is the town of Coober Pedy. In a bid to avoid the heat, much of it has been built underground. Visit underground houses, cafes and churches, and stay in underground hotels. Admire the lunar-like landscape, which has been the backdrop for many movies, including Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Red Planet. Coober Pedy is also known as the Opal Capital of the World, and there are plenty of opportunities to purchase the pretty gemstones – or even find your own.

Step into another world in the pinnacles desert

The stunning limestone formations known as the Pinnacles are near Cervantes on the Turquoise Coast, 250 kilometres north of Perth. Cervantes is the gateway to Nambung National Park, which contains the Pinnacles Loop – a four-kilometre (2.5 mile) road that can be driven or walked in about an hour. The Pinnacles Desert contains thousands of striking limestone pillars set against shifting golden sands. Visit at dawn or dusk to see the shadows cast by the unusual formations. You might also see wild emus stalking among the spires. The park, with its otherworldly landscape, can be visited all year round, but there’s a bonus in spring, when the wildflowers and wattles are in bloom.

Experience Kakadu’s undiscovered beauty

Kakadu National Park is Australia’s biggest national park and a style of outback you may not be familiar with. Here you’ll find rugged escarpments, lush rainforest and rock art galleries up to 20,000 years old. Learn about Aboriginal culture, take in thundering waterfalls and witness millions of migratory birds among the wetlands. You can visit Kakadu as part of the 550-kilometre Nature’s Way driving route, which starts in Darwin and passes by wetlands, gorges and waterfalls in a land rich in Aboriginal culture. Take your time. Over the course of four to seven days, as well as travelling through Kakadu National Park, you’ll visit the town of Katherine, Nitmiluk National Park and Litchfield National Park, taking in the best of the Top End’s natural beauty.

1 Field of Light at Uluru 2 The Pinnacles at Nambung National Park 3 An underground restaurant in Coober Pedy

Take your pick of Australian adventures // TRAVEL //

Head out on your own for a memorable holiday There’s no doubt Australia is a big country, but it’s surprisingly easy to navigate. With plenty of established driving routes and countless hidden gems to discover along the way, there are distinct advantages to striking out on your own. Here are just some of the different ways you can see the country your way.

Answer the call of the open road

Taking to the open road in a car or campervan is the perfect way to see the country at your own pace, and it’s easier than you might think. Whether you want to cruise a scenic ocean route, discover the north on a tropical drive or make your way along one of Australia’s most famous outback roads, there’s a self-drive option for everyone. With plenty of options for rental vehicles in every major city and hotels and campgrounds for every budget along the way, it’s easy, safe and fun to choose your own adventure.

Take one of the world’s greatest train journeys

If you’d prefer to leave the driving to someone else, but still want a unique travel experience through the outback,

Australia’s train journeys are an excellent option. The Ghan goes from north to south (Darwin to Adelaide), or vice versa, traversing wide open spaces, the rusty Red Centre and lush greens of the Top End on a journey of three or four days. The Indian Pacific begins its journey in Sydney and travels for four days across the entire continent to Perth in the west (or vice versa). It passes through landscapes as varied as the spectacular Blue Mountains and the endless flat, otherworldly stretches of the Nullarbor Plain.

Head off road

The Great Beach Drive, a 200-kilometre wave-washed highway on the Sunshine Coast, is the perfect example of an incredible experience you can only have by hopping behind the wheel. You’ll need a 4WD and a sense of adventure, but you’ll never forget the feeling of sand beneath your wheels as the waves crash just metres away. You’ll drive past the famous cliffs known as the Coloured Sands, and Carlo Sandblow, a massive sand dune that towers over Rainbow Beach. Extend your trip by taking your vehicle on the barge to Fraser Island - the world’s largest sand island.

Make your own tracks

One of the best ways to discover Australia on your own is to take to the trails. With hundreds of national parks across the country and plenty of curated trails in and around the major cities, you can immerse yourself in some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery. A favourite for visitors and locals alike is the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, which will take you along Sydney’s famous coastline. It’s particularly beautiful in October and November when the landscape is transformed into a temporary sculpture park during Sculpture by the Sea. Wilsons Promontory (just under four hours south of Melbourne) offers trails through uncrowded beaches, eucalypt forests, cool rainforest gullies and rocky mountaintops. From a few hours to a few weeks, Australia has a walking trail to take your fancy.

Leave the crowds behind and seek out hidden gems

There’s no doubt about it - Australia is a big country. Hopping on a guided tour is certainly a stress-free way to see the highlights, but there are benefits to taking your itinerary into your own hands. There are many hidden gems that will reward your efforts with awe inspiring landscapes, wildlife, star-filled skies and a chance to connect with nature in a way that few get to experience. The Grampians National Park is just three hours from Melbourne yet feels worlds away. The area is famous for quality red wines, hiking trails and Aboriginal history. The craggy peaks and rocky gorges of South Australia’s Flinders Ranges require a five-hour road trip from Adelaide but are well worth the journey. Explore the 100-kilometre crater that is Wilpena Pound, taste kangaroo and emu at an outback pub, and glamp under the stars at Arkaba Station. 1 The Great Beach Drive provides a road trip like no other 2 The Ghan-Australia’s greatest train journey 3 The breath taking beauty of the Flinders Ranges

Travel well with Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon

// TRAVEL //

Attractive Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon promotions await in the upcoming Kuala Lumpur MATTA Fair Rejoice travellers as Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon roll out its attractive promotions in conjunction with the upcoming Kuala Lumpur MATTA Travel Fair with return flights from MYR 720* to over 40 amazing cities in Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, Europe and North America. Travellers can book these great offers online at www.cathaypacific.com.my/matta. The airline currently operates 4 daily flights non-stop from Kuala Lumpur to Hong Kong, offering convenient connections to over 200 international destinations. In recent years, the airline has expanded its international network by introducing flights to new destinations in China, Europe and US. This year, the 3

airline continues the excitement with the launch of flights to new destinations such as Nanning, Jinan, Brussels, Dublin, Copenhagen, Washington DC, Cape Town and Seattle, as well as additional frequencies to San Francisco, Barcelona, Fukuoka and more. Offering flights to over 20 cities in Mainland China, Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon offer customers choice and flexibility whether you’re travelling for business or leisure. This year, Cathay Dragon’s new four-timesweekly service between Hong Kong and Nanning in Guangxi further strengthens the airline’s network in Mainland China. In addition, Cathay Dragon has also launched a new four-times-weekly service between Hong Kong and Jinan, the capital of Shandong province. The new service, which will complement the airline’s existing flights to Qingdao, will be operated by the airline’s fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft in a two-class configuration. This Summer, the airline launched pioneering nonstop routes linking Hong Kong with Brussels, Dublin and Copenhagen, further strengthening the airline’s network and providing new trade and tourism opportunities between Asia and Europe. With the commencement of the new routes, the airline’s network will cover 15 European destinations served direct from Hong Kong. The three new routes will be operated by Cathay Pacific’s

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Friendly service onboard Cathay Pacific Enjoy spacious comfort on your work trip Savour local delicacies onboard Cathay Pacific The Deck, the airline’s newest First and Business Class Lounge

state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft, which feature the latest seats and cabin design which have been especially well-received by the airline’s customers. All flights to Brussels, Dublin and Copenhagen are equipped with the aircraft’s enhanced in-flight entertainment system and Wi-Fi on board. To ensure a good start to your journey, Cathay Pacific has unveiled The Deck, the airline’s newest First and Business Class Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport. Boasting an open-ceiling veranda and panoramic views of the apron, The Deck, emulates a “contemporary living room” environment of understated luxury, helping customers to feel at ease and providing a sense of wellbeing. Make your way to gate 16 in Terminal 1 and enjoy the comforts of the new lounge designed in the signature style of Cathay Pacific’s award-winning lounges in Hong Kong and across its network. Your dream getaway awaits you! Embark on an unforgettable journey with Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon. From seamless online check-in and free baggage allowance with each flight ticket to comfortable seats and international standards of service quality, Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon place comfort at the heart of travelling. Book your flight tickets now at www. cathaypacific.com.my

Let Mak Mak show you around Macao // TRAVEL //

Mak Mak, the mascot of Macao Tourism introduces upcoming events and festivals

Hello, everybody, and welcome to Macao! I am Mak Mak, the mascot of Macao Tourism and I will be your special tour guide today, showing you around wonderful attractions while introducing our upcoming events and festivals. Before getting into all that, let me introduce myself first. I am a black-faced spoonbill and as a pathfinder, my role is to guide travelers around Macao, a city where Chinese and European cultures are harmoniously woven together. The hues of red, yellow and blue on me bring out a European aroma while my design is inspired by the Guia Lighthouse. Now, come join me as I take you around and 3

introduce you to some of our major events and festivals! Macao’s events calendar is packed with various activities and events waiting to be discovered including the 29th Macao International Fireworks Display Contest, which will be staged above the sea near the Macau Tower on 1st, 8th, 15th and 24th September and 1st October. Ten teams from around the world will present spectacular firework shows synchronized to music and laser lights to create an exhilarating spectacle you should not miss. In addition, visitors can also catch Macao Light Festival 2018 from 2nd to 31st December 2018 and admire light installations and enjoy interactive games and a series of other activities on a magical night in Macao. For a gastronomic experience, the Macau Food Festival is a favourite among both locals and visitors alike as it features local delicacies as well as special dishes from around the world. The 18th Macau Food Festival will be held from 9th to 25th November

1 65th Macau Grand Prix 2 Macao Light Festival 3 Cityscape of Macao

2018 at Sai Van Lake Square. Other events include the 65th Macau Grand Prix, Macao International Parade, 3rd International Film Festival & Awards • Macao. Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) will be back this 7, 8, and 9 September 2018 at MATTA Fair at PWTC, Kuala Lumpur with fun activities and food tastings! Don’t miss the chance to book your dream holiday to Macao with participated agents as all packages purchased during the fair will allow you to redeem exclusive gifts you will not get elsewhere! Stocks are limited, so hurry up! Terms and conditions apply. For more event details, visit Macao Tourism Malaysia’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ MacaoTourismMalaysia.

A Pervasive Sense of Calmness In Korea // TRAVEL //

Love is in the air throughout the seasons. Create the holiday of your dreams the Korean way! The soft snowflakes that trickle down as well as the sensory appeal and emotional allure of autumn leaves add a magical touch to a declaration of love.

Winter and Autumn Getaways

Snow can be the perfect plaything for sweethearts, who turn into children as they toss snowballs at each other. It’s also a great way to show how passion can sometimes make people temporarily impervious to cold weather. Korea transforms into one of the perfect romantic destinations to traverse to in December. The glittering Christmas decorations and festive tunes enhance its magnetic appeal. This is also your chance to see the Camellia flower that blossom in the cold weather at Camellia Hill which is located at Jeju Island and the Camellia Forest in Baekryonsa Temple. This flower is considered a symbol of loyalty among lovers. “I love only you” is the signature meaning for it. Be in receptive mode as you stand in awe of its stunning presence. Songdo Beach, Wolmido Island and Sinpo-ro are considered to be suitable places for couples who want to create more romantic memories while in Korea. Prior to that, autumn emerges. The cooling temperatures and leaves changing from vibrant greens of summer to a rich palette of red, orange, and yellow signals its arrival. Although numerous areas across Korea offer brilliant displays of fall foliage, the mountains are still considered the quintessential destination.

When it comes to autumn, two mountains come to mind – the Seoraksan Mountain in Sokcho, Gangwon-do and the Jirisan Mountain in Gurye, Jeollanam-do. This year, the leaves are expected to change colour around late September at Seoraksan Mountain and spread southwards across the central and southern parts of Korea. Fall foliage generally reaches its peak two weeks from the time the leaves begin to change, meaning this year’s peak foliage is expected to hit the central region around midOctober, and the southern region in late October.

Food Appreciation

For each of Korea’s four distinct seasons, a different set of foods takes centre stage in Korea’s culinary scene. Autumn marks the season of the nation’s three most popular kinds of seafood: blue crabs, jumbo shrimp (prawns), and gizzard shad. On land, the best fall seasonal foods include flavourful and nutritious pine mushrooms and sweet persimmon. With the arrival of winter’s shivering cold weather, comes a variety of Korean winter snacks and foods. Savory and sweet winter street foods like bungeoppang, hotteok, baked sweet potatoes, and hoppang are alltime favourite snacks for Koreans regardless of age. Tteokbokki is a widely popular dish especially in winter. It has a very distinctive spicy, yet sweet, flavour. The main ingredient of tteokbokki garae tteok (rice cake formed into a long white cylinder shape), which is 3

1 Deoksugung Palace in autumn 2 Cable car ride at Songdo, Busan 3 Jeonju Hanok Village covered in snow 4 Camellia Hill in Jeju Island

mixed with fish cake and various vegetables like onions, cabbage, and carrots, and red pepper paste. The mixture is heated and served with a hot cup of broth. Another snack that Koreans like to eat as the temperatures drop is kkochi eomuk (fish cake skewers). Eomuk is not spicy and is a great complement to help soothe the spicy taste of tteokbokki, and of course, it’s the menu to look for when you want to speed up the thawing of your body. In Korea, no table is complete without kimchi. Gwangju International Kimchi Festival which aims to promote it will be held from October 24 until October 28, this year. For more information on how to plan your trip to Korea, check out www.visitkorea.com.my or www.facebook.com/KTOMalaysia/. 4

Experience World-Class service with ANA // TRAVEL //

Aligning services with customers needs is what continues to set ANA apart in the airline industry. Their constant aim towards positive transformation brings mutual rewards Nothing beats the feeling of being genuinely cared for as it infuses you with an incandescent love for life. It makes you feel important. All Nippon Airways (ANA) acknowledges this and sees every individual as a V.I.P. with different needs. They go above and beyond of what is expected to give assurance on how valuable you are to them. Flying onboard Japan’s one and only 5-star airline will be an experience that you would look forward to having again in your life. To maintain this standard and people’s high expectations of them, they continuously strive to enrich their services. Examples include the previous opening of the new lounges at Sapporo (New Chitose) airport, and the renewing of in-flight meals from time to time. Care and concern for their customers’ shine even more through their latest “Seven Allergen-Free Child Meal”. As the first Airline in Japan to provide this on their menu, it further reiterates ANA’s distinguished position in the airline industry and as Japan’s largest airline. This new meal, which was made available, from 1 March 2018, is an excellent addition to ANA’s current menu which consists of “Seven Allergen-Free Meal”, “27 Allergen-Free Meal” for adults, and “27 Allergen-Free Baby Meal” for infants under two years of age. If you have family members or children with food allergies, you can have peace of mind knowing that they will not have a problem where food is concerned.

ANA representatives took the time to gather information from a team of elementary school advisors while at the same time, taking into account the ideas plus comments of people with food allergies. As a result, they came up with a special recipe that appeals to children both in appearance and taste. Teasing their taste buds with this new meal onboard ANA will be a wonderful experience for them. “Seven Allergen-Free Child Meal” is made without the use of seven common allergens (wheat, buckwheat, dairy products, eggs, peanuts, shrimp, and crabs.) For flights departing from Japan, orders are accepted up to 24 hours before departure. As for flights departing to Japan, orders are accepted up to 48 hours before departure. Reservations can be made only through call centres (available from 22 February 2018 8 AM JST) Meanwhile, being fully aware of ANA’s pledge of continuously wanting to provide a safe, comfortable and enjoyable journey, ANA introduces free Wi-Fi internet service on its domestic fleet, as well as personal seat monitors on its Boeing B777 and B787, serving on domestic routes. The free Wi-Fi internet service was made available to 3

all passengers from 1 April 2018 on airplanes with the Wi-Fi service logo near the entrance. By the end of fiscal year 2018, there are plans of expansion in regards to this service to a total of one hundred aircraft, which is the highest number on Japan’s domestic routes. In addition to the free Wi-Fi internet service, in-flight Wi-Fi entertainment was also upgraded. There was an increase in the number of contents to over one hundred from 1 April 2018. Those who love keeping track of what is going on in the world will not be disappointed as apart from video and audio entertainments, “ANA SKY LIVE TV” will be available for them to watch live news and sports. This is an exclusive feature only provided by ANA on Japan domestic routes. Also, from the second half of the fiscal year 2019, ANA will be equipping their main domestic fleet of Boeing B777 and B787 with personal seat monitors, universal laptop power ports, and USB ports. The personal seat monitors onboard ANA’s Airbus A321neo caught the attention of passengers when it was introduced in September, last year. To further illustrate ANA’s ongoing keenness to cater to its customers’ interests and needs, ANA has taken the initiative to increase the numbers of A321neo from currently two, to eleven aircraft by the end of the fiscal year 2018. 1 “ Seven Allergen-Free Child Meal” - the latest addition to their menu 2A NA is the first Airline in Japan to provide the “Seven Allergen-Free Child Meal” 3E njoy the comfort never experienced before in Economy class

Award-winning EVA Air is more than just an airline // TRAVEL //

Taiwan’s leading independent airline extends its impeccable services way beyond the travel industry. They go above and beyond clients expectations.

The first thing that comes to mind when one hears the name EVA AIR is superior quality. Its reputation of bagging countless awards and its certification as a Skytrax 5-Star Airline for three years in a row indicates prominence on a high scale. Attaining these recognitions validates EVA AIR’s exceptionally high service and safety standards. Safety tops the list when flying abroad. This is something everyone yearns for when they or their loved ones go overseas. Nothing beats the feeling of being secure when travelling especially with all of the past news of horrible plane crashes. Customers can have total peace of mind as far as safety is concerned. Fly with ease to more than 60 international destinations with EVA AIR – “World’s Top 20 Safest Airlines”. On top of that, see how service quality improvement

is firmly embedded as the airline’s priority. Its President, Clay Sun highlighted how thrilled he is for EVA AIR to be awarded the 5-Star Airline certification for the third consecutive year. “I’m especially grateful to the EVA AIR staff and thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for always doing their very best to serve every passenger. It is a great honour to be recognised by travellers from around the globe. We will never lose sight of our goal for EVA AIR to be the very best. We aim to make every journey with us a delightful, relaxing experience for every passenger,” he said. Nothing can halt EVA AIR’s progress as it continuously paves its way for success. EVA Air takes the top spot in “World’s Best Airport Services” of SKYTRAX’s annual World Airline Award categories. SKYTRAX recognised EVA’s ongoing

1 Excellent food quality 2 Helpful staff members 3 EVA AIR’s Hello Kitty themed airplane

commitment to quality service as one of only eleven 5-Star Airlines worldwide and ranked it among the “World’s Top 5 Airlines of 2018.” In addition to that, EVA AIR is more than just an airline extending its impeccable services way beyond the travel industry. This is affirmed through their support in sport related activities. Catapulting athletes to excel in competitions around the globe has been one of their aims. If you are a sports buff, you will be thrilled to find out that they will be hosting their first internationally certified marathon in Taipei on October 28, 2018. Also in the loop are the Chinese Taipei Culture, Leisure & Sports Association, Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Association. Experienced marathoners and weekend joggers are welcome to join. Winners are entitled to get NT$ 30,000.

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Sunway Lagoon serves up irresistible deals // TRAVEL //

Psst! We want to let you in on a secret: you can purchase Sunway Lagoon Passport offering 365-day access for the price of a single admission ticket at the upcoming MATTA Fair What if I told you that you could enjoy year-round access to Malaysia’s premier theme park for the price of one single-admission ticket? While it may sound too good to be true, this is just one of the many amazing deals that will be up for grabs at Sunway Lagoon’s booth at the upcoming MATTA Fair from 7 to 9 September at Putra World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur. Take advantage of the deals and drop by at Sunway Lagoon’s booths (4001 – 4006 at Hall 4) where you will be able to buy a Sunway Lagoon Passport, which grants holders access to the park for an entire year, for only MYR190. Visitors will also be given the option to purchase a six-month passport for MYR170. The theme park is also selling heavily discounted single-admission tickets at MYR109 for an adult ticket and at MYR99 for a child ticket, which is inclusive of a MYR10 retail voucher. Meanwhile, families travelling with children can take advantage of the FAMFun Package which admits two adults and two children at only MYR299. Even better, there is also the opportunity to buy Sunway Theme Park’s Ultimate Pass, which grants 12-month access not only to Sunway Lagoon, but also to Lost World of Tambun in Ipoh, Perak. Sunway Theme Parks is offering this incredible pass at only MYR299 (valid for Malaysians and non-Malaysians) at the upcoming MATTA Fair. Just in time for Halloween, tickets for Nights of Fright 6 – Sunway Lagoon’s very own “festival of fear” will also be available for purchase. Now in its sixth year, the annual event will feature all manner of terrifying creatures roaming around several themed

zones. Nights of Fright 6 will run from 28 September to 31 October and visitors to MATTA Fair will be able to purchase tickets at only MYR48. Guests who purchase any of the packages or tickets will be entitled to spin the ‘Wheel of Fortune’ and stand a chance to win admission tickets and 3 other prizes. “The MATTA Fair has become renowned as a must-visit event as it offers so many attractive deals and offers. Being a longterm participant at the MATTA Fair, we want to make this year a special one and give families and funseekers the opportunity to experience everything Sunway Lagoon has to offer at ridiculously low prices. However, they should know that these promotional offers will only be available at the MATTA Fair and nowhere else – so please do visit our booth to take advantage of these fantastic offers,” said Sean Choo, General Manager of Sunway Lagoon. Located in Sunway City, Sunway Lagoon features six parks in total sprawled over 88 acres. These parks include the Amusement Park, Extreme Park, Scream Park, Water Park, Wildlife Park and the Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon. These six parks are home to more than

90 constantly updated attractions including one of the world’s longest suspension bridges and ‘first-inthe-world’ attractions such as the highly acclaimed Vuvuzela and Sunway Lagoon’s Surf Beach. For more information, visit www.sunwaylagoon. com or check us out at www.facebook.com/ SunwayLagoonMalaysia.

1 Family fun time at Zambezi River 2 Enjoy the ride at Lost City of Gold Scream Coaster 3 Thrilling dry rides at G-Force X 4 Make a splash with Monsoon 360 4

Splendours of Korea // TRAVEL //

Revel in all things Korean. Its allure continuously captivates the hearts of many Korea needs no introduction among Malaysians as the Land of Kimchi and anything to do with it is highly sought after. K-pop and K-drama fever is ablaze in Malaysia. Even the Korean flavour is acknowledged as soothing to one’s palate. It satiates the appetite of not only Malaysians, but also the international community as well. Traversing to Korea is of course the best way to encounter the Korean way of life in the most profound way.

Exquisite flavour to tease your taste buds with

This is the time for you to have fun cooking your favourite Korean meals - Bibimbap, Bulgogi, Kimchi, Samgyetang, etc. OME cooking class and Seoul Kimchi Academy House are both capable of providing this experience for visitors. Their representatives offer a variety of ways to indulge in Korea’s beautiful cuisine and culture. A chef is scheduled to guide participants through the markets as well as ensure their cooking experience is memorable.

studio. This is the time to dance your heart out! All instructors at this studio have performed with famous K-pop groups such as Bing Bang and Super Junior. A video clip and photographs are presented to you at the end of each session, so you’ll be able to think back of the fond memories you had there with love and laughter.

Seoul – A city you would visit again in a heartbeat

The excitement does not stop there. Expect to learn more about Seoul through Oh My Oppa: Seoul Walking Tour. Starting off your walking tour in the right spot is critical to mapping out the remainder of the day. Get ready to fall more deeply in love with Korea as you explore the hidden gems of Seoul with a local guide referred to as an Oppa which means older brother when translated to English.

1 2 3 4

Let’s explore the hidden gems of Korea Your handsome “Oppa” knows Seoul like the back of his hand Discover the art of Korean cooking The Hanbok is a stunning Korean traditional attire

Among places on the itinerary include Gwangjang Market where you can sample the spicy fried rice cakes, Korean blood sausage and the famous raw octopus. Strolling along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a popular dating destination in Korea is also one of the best options. Wherever your tour guide takes you, you’ll have a blast capturing Instagram-worthy snaps while you’re there!

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Traditional garments with distinct modern feel

More of the Korean appeal shines through their traditional attire known as the Hanbok. About 100 years ago, Koreans wore the Hanbok on a daily basis. Today, it is reserved for special events, holidays and celebrations. Donning the costume while re-enacting your favourite K-drama scenes at Seoul’s iconic landmarks definitely calls for a photo op. Whether you choose to walk along the awe-inspiring pavilions of Gyeongbokgung Palace or the secret gardens of the royal residence, Changdeokgung Palace, the experience is surreal.

Spotlight and excitement

More fun awaits you at Hongik University’s largest dance

Head down under for a holiday to remember // TRAVEL //

Now with more value with Holiday Tours

When it comes to fantastic family bonding vacation experiences, spectacular scenery, sumptuous food and fabulous attractions, Australia is one of the most well-loved destinations amongst Malaysians. Covering everything from scenic coasts to unique wildlife, interactive attractions, world-class events and fun-filled experiences, Australia has everything to offer for travellers of all ages and interests. With Holiday Tours’ City Stay packages, you can still enjoy all the creature comforts of staying in a city while making day tours to get acquainted with Australia’s unique wildlife and magnificent sceneries. These packages come complete with airport transfers, accommodation, daily breakfast and a selection of must see tours. If you prefer complete flexibility, spending as little or as much time exploring what interests you, then a selfdrive adventure could be just the thing for you. While we have pre-designed self-drive itineraries to make sure you get the most of your stay, Holiday Tours’ Premier Aussie Specialists are able to tweak and customise itineraries according to your needs. New in our range of self-drive options are campervans holidays. With both the car and campervan options, you can truly embrace the destination going off the beaten path discovering

magnificent views, stopping for a bite or two and visiting some attractions along the way. For those looking for a getaway with a difference, then cruising just might be the answer. Perfect for couples and families, cruise holidays are allinclusive covering accommodation, food, entertainment and activities onboard. Choose from our 4-night Sydney-Melbourne-Sydney cruise or a 8-night Sydney-Brisbane-Willis Island-Arlie cruise and more and enjoy FREE onboard credit of up to USD100 per stateroom, exclusively with Holiday Tours. With our guided holidays on AAT Kings, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the trip as the experts take you on a journey of discovery. On the 5-night Tassie Wilderness trip which begins in Hobart, get ready to be awed by the spectacular natural beauty. Experience cruising on the spectacular Gordan River with its waters reflecting the surrounding untouched wilderness. On the 5-nights Western Wonderland which starts in Fremantle,

1 Incredible view of the Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast 2 Panaromic view of vibrant Jacaranda trees in spring bloom at Circular Quay with views of Sydney harbour

travel north along the Western Australia coastline stopping at Yanchep National Park for an Aboriginal cultural experience in an authentic bush setting before proceeding to the Nambung National Park, home to the stunning pinnacles. Travelling to Shell Beach, see one of only two beaches in the world where the beach is covered with shells, making it a truly unique sight. Enjoy these and more with our guided holiday deals offering 30% discount for the 2nd person. Visit Holiday Tours Premier Aussie Specialist at Hall 1 (Booths 1233-1256) or call 03-6286 6288 (offices open over MATTA weekend from 9am to 6pm) for inspiring holiday ideas this MATTA Fair.

Experience a whole new side of Australia // TRAVEL //

Australia is one of the most epic travel destinations in the world. It’s embraced as a backpacking, road trip and diving destination and is filled with pristine natural beauty from Uluru to the outback, rainforests to epitome sun-drenched coast. 4D Melbourne

From only RM678, experience Melbourne’s cafe culture or drive along the incredible Great Ocean Road. Make a date with the penguins on Phillip Island or go on a train ride worth remembering onboard the Puffing Billy. 5 and 6 days packages are available.

4D Gold Coast

If you’re looking for a fun-filled family holiday, then Gold Coast will tick many boxes for you. From only RM748, gain access to Sea World to watch dancing dolphins and polar bears or play with a cuddly collection of farmyard friends at Paradise Country Farm. Take selfies with your

favourite movie characters at Movie World or experience the thrills and spills of Dream World’s 40 plus rides. 5 and 6 days packages are available.

4D Sydney - Enjoy greater savings with Great Sydney Deals

There’s more to Sydney than just splendid beach culture and a vivid city life. From as little as RM748, go dolphin and whale watching at Port Stephen, or marvel at the dramatic landscape of the Blue Mountains. Explore the fertile Hunter Valley from a hot air balloon and taste award-winning wine and food. 5 and 6 days packages are available.

This MATTA Fair, enjoy more savings with our Great Sydney Deals, where you can choose how you save between “Buy 1 get 1 Free”, “50% on 2nd Pax” or “Buy Full Day Tour, Free City Tour”!

4D Adelaide

Nicknamed the gateway to South Australia, Adelaide is a cosmopolitan melting pot bursting with culture and flavours that’s simply too exciting to miss! From only RM678, travel to see adorable marsupial wildlife on Kangaroo Island or escape to Victor Harbour to see some of the region’s most dramatic coastlines. Get a taste of Germany at the Grand Barossa Valley, Australia’s most famous wine region. 5 and 6 days packages are available.

4D Cairns

A trip to Australia wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. From only RM778, base yourself in Cairns to see its hidden wonders, go on a scenic train ride around Kuranda or get a bird’s eye view of everything from a hot air balloon! 5 days package is available.

4D Perth - Enjoy a free lobster lunch upgrade when you book

From as low as RM908, explore vibrant markets in Fremantle, be mesmerised by the Wave Rock, wine and dine along the Margaret River or go sandboarding at the Pinnacles, the choice is yours. This MATTA Fair, book our Perth tour and enjoy a free lobster lunch upgrade, which will become available when you go on your Pinnacles day trip. 5 days package is available.

1 Welcome to Sydney! 2 Sit back and relax as you bask in the beauty of Australia 2

The

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