Issue 17.1 – Where to Go Next?
It is time to hit the road again.
After what seems like the longest time of soldiering through the adversity and uncertainties that come with COVID-19 pandemic, we’re happy to say the wait is reaching an end. Travel has now progressively increased as more countries are now opening up to travellers, and the hospitality industry is ready to welcome them again despite facing reopening challenges.
In this issue, we explore the many purposes travellers often take into consideration when selecting destinations. For some, ultimate relaxation is key. Others seek ways to satisfy their adrenaline fix and cultural curiosity, while the rest are simply on the lookout for the best places to eat. Whatever your goal is, we have curated unique and accessible recommendations in the following pages to satisfy those longings.
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On that note, we would like to point out that we continue to highlight destinations within Malaysia because just like the rest of the world, the local tourism industry was severely affected by the pandemic, hence worth supporting. For the time being, we advocate travellers to continue exploring Malaysia first before flying off overseas. Our writers has explored ways to unplug and enjoy the off-beaten paths in Pahang (page 60); the family-friendly getaway in Perak (page 68); the green metropolis called Putrajaya (page 74); the culturally-rich Kelantan (page 84); and our colourful capital, Kuala Lumpur (page 92).
For foodies at heart who are constantly mapping out their meals, we highlight two towns in Malaysia, which are Kuching (page 96) and Kuala Terengganu (page 104), both are already popular for their unique cultural identities but still under the radar for their culinary offerings. Now, they can be your next favourite gastronomic destinations. Closer to Klang Valley, we review Trip Advisor’s number one Halal Italian restaurant, Positano Risto (page 112) and visit the only Condé Nast establishment in South East Asia, the dazzling Vogue Lounge Kuala Lumpur (page 110).
And as for the staycation ideas, we team up with our friends at Marriott International and bring you three tropical sanctuaries in Langkawi that not only deliver in terms of impeccable design and services, but also replete with cultural immersions for a memorable and satisfying vacation. The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi (page 116) and The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa (page 122) allow guests to bask in opulence, while their vibrant sister, Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah (page 128), retains its playful and sassy side, suitable for the younger crowd.
Gaya Travel team had fun recalling our travel experiences from the places we visited for this issue, and hopefully when you read these stories, they will remind you again of the joys of travel and persuade you to pack your bags and go off somewhere soon…
See you in the next issue, and safe travels!
JUHAN KAMARUDDIN @ JEREMY KHALIL
Email your comments to jeremy@gayatravel.com.my
Cover illustration by: Najlaa M
DEPARTMENTS
Page 14. Editorial Jottings
GAYA SPECIAL FEATURE
Page 42. Malaysia Remains Top Destination for Muslim Travellers in GMTI 2022 Report
Page 44. Rentak Selangor
Page 52. Kita Ke Kampung
Page 58. National Agrofood Policy 2021-2030 (NAP 2.0)
Page 66. 6 Reasons Why You Should Visit The State of Selangor in 2022!
Page 80. Be A Smart Consumer
Page 82. Be A Sustainable Consumer
Page 114. 8 Places to Visit in Kuala Selangor
GAYA TRAVELLER
Page 21. Gaya Traveller‘s Ipoh
GAYA INTERVIEW
Page 30. Interview with YB Arifin bin Deraman, Terengganu State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Culture
Page 36. Interview with Mr Fadli Yusof bin Haji Zakaria, Terengganu State Tourism Department Director
DESTINATIONS
Page 46. Rentak Selangor 6.0: A Kaleidoscopic Spectacle of Cultures
Page 54. Halal Selangor Highlights the Diversity of Muslim-Friendly Businesses in Selangor
Page 60. It’s Time For Pahang!
Page 68. 9 Underrated Family-Friendly Attractions in Perak Worth Exploring
Page 74. 10 Places to Explore in Putrajaya
Page 84. Experiencing Kelantan in Ramadan and Beyond
Page 92. Playing Tourist in Kuala Lumpur
Page 96. A Culinary Adventure in Kuching
Page 104. 11 Places to Go Food Hunting When in Kuala Terengganu
GAYA DINE
Page 110. Feast Your Eyes and Palates at Vogue Lounge Kuala Lumpur
Page 112. Positano Risto, where Quality and Craftsmanship are on Full Show
HOTELS & RESORTS
Page 116. The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi: A Heavenly Tropical Hideaway Like No Other
Page 122. The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa: The Perfect Getaway to Find Your Balance
Page 128. A Sassy Stay Experience at Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah
GAYA SNAPSHOT
Page 132. Gaya Snapshot: Nature
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