The holidays are a wonderful time for families of all cultures to enjoy each other's company. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, there's nothing like the joy of giving and spending time with loved ones. There are many ways to go about that. Some prefer to stay at home for a more traditional celebration. While others like to travel someplace new with the family over the holidays.
Picking a location for a Christmas vacation depends a lot on preference. If you're looking for a warm sunny get away from the cold then a Carribean beach trip or Cruise could be perfect for you. And if you love the snow and everything that comes with it, a European ski trip could be in your future. Not to mention the more unique ideas like watching the northern lights dance across the sky in Norway.
The 2019 holidays may be over, but that doesn't mean you can't start planning for 2020. This post is meant to be a brief look into the many options for you to choose from. The infographic below will give you some ideas to get you started.
Christmas Vacation Ideas for Families
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A vacation could be the perfect gift for the whole family to enjoy. It can be anything from ice skating in New York City during Christmas time to basking in the sun on a white-sand beach. And if it turns out to be a family tradition for you, there are so many other options to choose from for years to come.
We hope this infographic on Christmas Vacation Ideas for Families Looking to Travel in 2020 helps you come up with your next big holiday adventure!
If you're an avid traveler, like I am, it is likely you're always looking for new and exciting ways to experience the world. There are so many places to see and explore, why limit yourself to one destination per excursion? I stumbled upon a really cool new way to do a timeshare and wanted to share it with you all! I've always wanted to sail but the cost of a boat and figuring out what is needed seemed a bit overwhelming. With Festiva Sailing Vacations, you don't have to worry about any of that and you can still sail and see many areas of the world all in one trip!
Festiva Sailing Vacations
With this unique ownership, you get to hop on a six to eight person catamaran and set sail to explore
multiple destinations in a one-week tropical trip that can't be beat. You get the choice of sailing out to the British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, St. John, or the Greek Isles--making multiple stops along the way. These incredible trips are coordinated seamlessly by a small group of skilled crew members that will ensure you have a safe and fun-filled adventure. These crew members make it their number one priority to make sure you are comfortable and have a positive experience, welcoming you onto their catamaran as if it were their own home.
Being on-board the boat is an experience in itself. The rooms are cozy, but well-appointed with a place to rest and shower with their own in-suite bath and shower. On-deck, there are activities available to you such as paddle boarding, snorkeling, sea kayaking, bird watching, and of course relaxing and sunbathing. All the equipment you need for these activities is found right onboard for your convenience.
During your travels, there is a chef on board to prepare delicious cuisine that will blow you away. Indulge on everything from bruschetta and tapas, to marinated mahi mahi and “Soutzoukakia” (Greek meatballs). All three meals are prepared and served daily along with snacks and of course, an open bar.
If you choose a sailing trip to Greece, you have the chance to explore the various Islands where you will experience Greek culture and ancient ruins. A Caribbean trip will bring you to the best beaches with exotic bars and opportunities to snorkel in coveted reefs. These trips are perfect for the bohemian travelling family that only has a week of time for explorations, you won’t be sequestered to only one resort, instead you’ll get to explore a few destinations at once!
Benefits of Festiva Ownership
If you purchase one of these coveted Festiva Sailing Vacations, you automatically have more vacation options than ever before. Festiva resorts is redefining vacation ownership by constantly striving to make it better, more flexible, and more fun for owners.
Festiva allows you to exchange your timeshare to change up your vacation annually. If you wish to take to the land for a getaway instead of sailing across the sea, you have that option. Festiva Resorts is composed of 25 different vacation ownership properties in locations such as Orlando, the Bahamas, New Orleans, and Myrtle Beach.
Peppertree Ocean Club is a resort in Myrtle Beach that resides right on the coast for a relaxing beach retreat. With ample golfing nearby, shopping, and live entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Accommodations come in studios, one-, two-, and three-bedrooms with full kitchens, oceanfront views, and whirlpool tubs. Paradise Harbour Club provides you with a deluxe tropical escape in the Bahamas. Take advantage of the exciting nightlife, plethora of outdoor dining options, and chances to interact with the fish and dolphins during your stay. There are one- and two-bedroom options with comfortably controlled temperatures, sitting areas, patios or balconies, and wireless Internet access.
Festiva Adventure Club Offers Travel Perks
Festiva Resorts also offers its own vacation club, Festiva Adventure Club (or FAC for short). This is a great ownership program for the travel enthusiast who likes plenty of flexibility with a vacation. Perfect for the worldly traveler, this points-based ownership doesn't put restrictions on your travel experience. You can travel any time of year, choose any size accommodations, and stay at any of Festiva's 25 resort properties. You also aren't tied down to a full week with the option to enjoy a 3-, 4-, or 7-night stay. This allows you to experience a wide variety of getaways throughout the year under one ownership. Not to mention, there are special discounts for travel and vacation products reserved for owners.
So there you have it! One super cool and really unique vacation idea. It is a must for those wanting to see the world, but only have just a week or two leave. To learn more about the ability to own or rent a Festiva timeshare for less, or to learn about ownership in general you can visit a resale company like SellMyTimeshareNow. com
Festiva Sailing Vacations
With this unique ownership, you get to hop on a six to eight person catamaran and set sail to explore
multiple destinations in a one-week tropical trip that can't be beat. You get the choice of sailing out to the British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, St. John, or the Greek Isles--making multiple stops along the way. These incredible trips are coordinated seamlessly by a small group of skilled crew members that will ensure you have a safe and fun-filled adventure. These crew members make it their number one priority to make sure you are comfortable and have a positive experience, welcoming you onto their catamaran as if it were their own home.
Being on-board the boat is an experience in itself. The rooms are cozy, but well-appointed with a place to rest and shower with their own in-suite bath and shower. On-deck, there are activities available to you such as paddle boarding, snorkeling, sea kayaking, bird watching, and of course relaxing and sunbathing. All the equipment you need for these activities is found right onboard for your convenience.
During your travels, there is a chef on board to prepare delicious cuisine that will blow you away. Indulge on everything from bruschetta and tapas, to marinated mahi mahi and “Soutzoukakia” (Greek meatballs). All three meals are prepared and served daily along with snacks and of course, an open bar.
If you choose a sailing trip to Greece, you have the chance to explore the various Islands where you will experience Greek culture and ancient ruins. A Caribbean trip will bring you to the best beaches with exotic bars and opportunities to snorkel in coveted reefs. These trips are perfect for the bohemian travelling family that only has a week of time for explorations, you won’t be sequestered to only one resort, instead you’ll get to explore a few destinations at once!
Benefits of Festiva Ownership
If you purchase one of these coveted Festiva Sailing Vacations, you automatically have more vacation options than ever before. Festiva resorts is redefining vacation ownership by constantly striving to make it better, more flexible, and more fun for owners.
Festiva allows you to exchange your timeshare to change up your vacation annually. If you wish to take to the land for a getaway instead of sailing across the sea, you have that option. Festiva Resorts is composed of 25 different vacation ownership properties in locations such as Orlando, the Bahamas, New Orleans, and Myrtle Beach.
Peppertree Ocean Club is a resort in Myrtle Beach that resides right on the coast for a relaxing beach retreat. With ample golfing nearby, shopping, and live entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Accommodations come in studios, one-, two-, and three-bedrooms with full kitchens, oceanfront views, and whirlpool tubs. Paradise Harbour Club provides you with a deluxe tropical escape in the Bahamas. Take advantage of the exciting nightlife, plethora of outdoor dining options, and chances to interact with the fish and dolphins during your stay. There are one- and two-bedroom options with comfortably controlled temperatures, sitting areas, patios or balconies, and wireless Internet access.
Festiva Adventure Club Offers Travel Perks
Festiva Resorts also offers its own vacation club, Festiva Adventure Club (or FAC for short). This is a great ownership program for the travel enthusiast who likes plenty of flexibility with a vacation. Perfect for the worldly traveler, this points-based ownership doesn't put restrictions on your travel experience. You can travel any time of year, choose any size accommodations, and stay at any of Festiva's 25 resort properties. You also aren't tied down to a full week with the option to enjoy a 3-, 4-, or 7-night stay. This allows you to experience a wide variety of getaways throughout the year under one ownership. Not to mention, there are special discounts for travel and vacation products reserved for owners.
So there you have it! One super cool and really unique vacation idea. It is a must for those wanting to see the world, but only have just a week or two leave. To learn more about the ability to own or rent a Festiva timeshare for less, or to learn about ownership in general you can visit a resale company like SellMyTimeshareNow. com
Have you always wanted to sail? Would you try this unique timeshare opportunity?
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| Wiki image |
This year, when it came time to start planning a family vacation, which is the one yearly ritual that has not fallen by the wayside, you wanted to do something special. You wanted your kids to see that relaxation was possible, and that life could be far more laid-back and easy going than what they were accustomed to. However, the trip was as it much for you as it was for the kids, but you decided you would use the idea of the family holiday as a teaching moment. This year there would be no busy theme parks, Disney World or city breaks. You booked tickets to Jamaica, and the family was going to practice the art of relaxing.
Let’s Get Together and Feel All Right
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| Bob Marley - Wiki image |
Redemption Song
Taking your afternoon swim in the Caribbean Sea, you feel as if you have somehow redeemed yourself. Your work is too hectic for you to make it home on time for dinner every night, but you have shown your family that you know how to relax. More importantly, you have taught your kids a vital lesson about the art of taking a holiday. You wonder how long the afterglow will last once you get home.
Penang, Malaysia is a wonderful area for family travel. There are so many fun things to do in Penang with kids that we really enjoyed our time there; great food of all sorts, large malls offer shopping, movies, and more, beaches for lazing the day away and numerous cultural areas to explore. So many great things to do that it can be overwhelming when you only have a week or so in the area.
We spent quite a bit of time in Penang recently so I thought I would put together a quick list of the top 10 things to do with your family.
Penang Butterfly Garden
I am not usually one to spend time or money at a butterfly garden set up for tourists. After living in Costa Rica for 5 years and seeing so many amazing butterflies right in our backyard it seems like a moot point to us now. But when some friends visited and wanted to go I figured why not? I am so glad we went!
I would say it is most appropriate for children 8 and under but kids of all ages, adults included will enjoy the day. The garden showcases every step in the butterfly metamorphosis from egg to butterfly. There are guides there to show the kids around and explain the different parts of the life stage. There are also a host of other insects and a fun butterfly release at the end of the
Penang National Park
Hiking, swimming, and exploring the wildlife, this park has it all. Penang National park is easy to access via the bus and offers so much in the way of outdoor fun. Pack a picnic lunch and eat along the water, watching monkeys scurry around you, take a leisurely stroll throughout the well maintained paths, explore the fishing docks and floating villages, or hop n a boat and explore the park from the water. If outdoors activity is what you seek then in Penang this is a great spot!
If you have time try and do a day trip to Turtle beach and Monkey beach. For $40 a boat load (seats 10-12) you can stop off at turtle beach to see the sanctuary there, almost always complete with adorable baby turtles waiting to be big enough for release. At the opposite end of the beach you will find a walking trail and a mecromitic lake, one of only 19 in the world. But beware there are many jellyfish in the water here so don't bother swimming and the lake is only worth seeing in the rainy season. After that you will be taken to monkey beach where the swimming is much nicer and true to its name you will be overrun with monkeys.
Tip: Bring in plenty of water and snacks as there are no services inside the park and it gets hot in Penang! (Monkey beach does have some vendors with cool drinks available) Also be careful on Monkey Beach, the monkeys will stalk you, wait for you to step away a bit and steal any and all food available to them!
Kek Lok Si temple
Typically, temples are not the most family friendly places, you need to be respectful and quiet and typically not run around screaming as my little ones seem to really enjoy particularly when it is most embarrassing! Kek Lok Si is different in that it seems a bit more relaxed. Tourist stalls adorn the entire complex and although that usually gives me less of an authentic feel it also lets me know they are slightly more relaxed.
Respect needs to be observed still but there is lots of opportunity for fun - vehicular elevators, animal statues for posing and climbing on, ponds full of koi, and a great turtle pond are just a few of the attractions on the temple grounds to both impress and keep your little ones entertained.
Tip: This is still a temple so be sure to dress appropriately. Cover knees and shoulders!
Hard Rock Hotel and Resort
You do not need to be a guest at the Hard Rock in order to enjoy the fabulous pool facilities. If you are in Penang for an extended period you can also buy a family pass for under $300, good for 4 people for the entire year. It allows free entry, discounts at the spa, shops, and restaurants, a well as a complimentary night at the hotel. It is well worth the money even if you stay only 6 months. There is also a kids club and teen club that you can enjoy free of charge when you buy the family pass.
Tip: Bring in snacks and drinks of your own. I've never had anyone tell me I can't and it saves a fortune as the restaurants are exorbitantly priced. There are also many local restaurants right across the street so you can easily leave and come back.
Snake Temple
If your children enjoy reptiles this is the place for them. The temple itself is really nothing special but the thrill of spotting snakes all over the property is. I was a little nervous when we decided to check it out but the snakes all seemed quite sleepy and none were directly in our paths so it never seemed dangerous.
The snakes can be spotted at different areas of the actual temple but outside was even more fun. A beautiful garden can be found and we spent nearly an hour searching the bushes to spot the colorful snakes, all of which appeared to be vipers. If you have the time head over to the small museum where you can see large cobras, some monkeys, a beautiful albino python and perhaps the biggest snake I have ever seen, a reticulated python that measured over 20 feet long and I am quite sure could swallow my 5 year old whole! Shaking with fear...check!
Tip: Get some drinks outside the temple or bring your own as there were none for sale inside and it is HOT!
Taluk Bahang Forest Park
Another great spot for outdoor fun is the Forest Park located near the Butterfly Garden on the Northern part of the island. Inside the park there is something for everyone. A forest museum showcases the types of plants and trees located on the island, 4 well marked walking trails weave throughout the 32 beautiful hectares, and a playground and swimming pools complete with slides make it a perfect spot to spend a few hours. Entrance to the park is free but the museum will cost 1 RM or roughly 30 cents. There are bathrooms inside the park but no services inside for food or drinks so bring your own.
Tip: Bring bug spray as we got eaten alive!
Cornwallis Fort
Fort Cornwallis is an old fort located on the NE corner of Penang. If your kids are into Mine craft, knights, and cannons then this will be a really fun way to spend a couple hours. There is also a playground located outside and some prison cells for when the kids get out of hand! Certainly not a full day outing but if you are in the area nothing says fun like an ammunition room. Although it may just be me, the mom with 3 boys:)
Tip: Read up on the history with your kids before going, it really puts the whole picture together better that way and in our opinion it was really fascinating stuff!
Orangutan Island
Okay, this is not technically in Penang but as it was an easy drive from Penang and we all had such a great time I just had to include it in the list. Orangutan island in Bukit Merah is doing some wonderful work rehabilitating Orangutans and slowly re releasing them into the wilds of Borneo. It took just 1 hour to get there from the Penang side of the bridge and it was a day full of boat rides, friendly knowledgeable tour guides, and amazingly close up encounters with orangutans of all ages.
Tip: Head there early enough to enjoy not only the orangutans but also the wildlife parks and water park that is located in the same area.
Penang Youth Park
As far as free parks go this one has got to be top of the list! Huge playgrounds, skating park, paths for biking or jogging, pools for swimming or wading, and a beautifully landscaped park can all be enjoyed free of charge from dawn until dusk. Even when it is hot so much of the park is covered with beautiful trees providing shade that it makes it bearable. When not sightseeing this is a great spot to take the kids to burn off some steam!
Tip: Be aware of monkeys and do not eat or carry food anyplace that you see them around! They can bite so avoid them and if bitten get to a doctor as soon as you can!
Adventure Zone, Batu Ferringhi
Penang can get really hot! So if you want to beat the heat, or are facing a rainy day then Adventure Zone, in Batu Ferringhi, Penang, is your best bet. There are slides, rope challenges, a toddler area, video games, and fun for every age range. Plus there is free wifi in the lobby with nice tables and chairs so you can catch up on work or choose to go in and play along with the kids. There is also a Segway course outside for an added cost and a small cafe inside serving drinks and snacks. A great way to spend a couple hours!
Tip: To save some money, bring some food or water in with you. I wouldn't bring a complete meal ,but water and some granola is fine. Also, do not go on the weekends when it is more busy and the fee for entrance increases.
If you have extra time and the kids are up for it there are also several beaches to relax on, great shopping in Georgetown (Little India), fruit and spice gardens, and numerous other temples (Burmese temple on Burma Rd is one of our favorites) and mosques (floating mosque) to explore throughout the island!
Do you have any tips of great spots for families in Penang? If so please share below!
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| Penang has so much more than just beautiful sunsets |
Penang Butterfly Garden
I am not usually one to spend time or money at a butterfly garden set up for tourists. After living in Costa Rica for 5 years and seeing so many amazing butterflies right in our backyard it seems like a moot point to us now. But when some friends visited and wanted to go I figured why not? I am so glad we went!
I would say it is most appropriate for children 8 and under but kids of all ages, adults included will enjoy the day. The garden showcases every step in the butterfly metamorphosis from egg to butterfly. There are guides there to show the kids around and explain the different parts of the life stage. There are also a host of other insects and a fun butterfly release at the end of the
Penang National Park
Hiking, swimming, and exploring the wildlife, this park has it all. Penang National park is easy to access via the bus and offers so much in the way of outdoor fun. Pack a picnic lunch and eat along the water, watching monkeys scurry around you, take a leisurely stroll throughout the well maintained paths, explore the fishing docks and floating villages, or hop n a boat and explore the park from the water. If outdoors activity is what you seek then in Penang this is a great spot!
If you have time try and do a day trip to Turtle beach and Monkey beach. For $40 a boat load (seats 10-12) you can stop off at turtle beach to see the sanctuary there, almost always complete with adorable baby turtles waiting to be big enough for release. At the opposite end of the beach you will find a walking trail and a mecromitic lake, one of only 19 in the world. But beware there are many jellyfish in the water here so don't bother swimming and the lake is only worth seeing in the rainy season. After that you will be taken to monkey beach where the swimming is much nicer and true to its name you will be overrun with monkeys.
Tip: Bring in plenty of water and snacks as there are no services inside the park and it gets hot in Penang! (Monkey beach does have some vendors with cool drinks available) Also be careful on Monkey Beach, the monkeys will stalk you, wait for you to step away a bit and steal any and all food available to them!
Kek Lok Si temple
Typically, temples are not the most family friendly places, you need to be respectful and quiet and typically not run around screaming as my little ones seem to really enjoy particularly when it is most embarrassing! Kek Lok Si is different in that it seems a bit more relaxed. Tourist stalls adorn the entire complex and although that usually gives me less of an authentic feel it also lets me know they are slightly more relaxed.
Respect needs to be observed still but there is lots of opportunity for fun - vehicular elevators, animal statues for posing and climbing on, ponds full of koi, and a great turtle pond are just a few of the attractions on the temple grounds to both impress and keep your little ones entertained.
Tip: This is still a temple so be sure to dress appropriately. Cover knees and shoulders!
Hard Rock Hotel and Resort
You do not need to be a guest at the Hard Rock in order to enjoy the fabulous pool facilities. If you are in Penang for an extended period you can also buy a family pass for under $300, good for 4 people for the entire year. It allows free entry, discounts at the spa, shops, and restaurants, a well as a complimentary night at the hotel. It is well worth the money even if you stay only 6 months. There is also a kids club and teen club that you can enjoy free of charge when you buy the family pass.
Tip: Bring in snacks and drinks of your own. I've never had anyone tell me I can't and it saves a fortune as the restaurants are exorbitantly priced. There are also many local restaurants right across the street so you can easily leave and come back.
Snake Temple
If your children enjoy reptiles this is the place for them. The temple itself is really nothing special but the thrill of spotting snakes all over the property is. I was a little nervous when we decided to check it out but the snakes all seemed quite sleepy and none were directly in our paths so it never seemed dangerous.
The snakes can be spotted at different areas of the actual temple but outside was even more fun. A beautiful garden can be found and we spent nearly an hour searching the bushes to spot the colorful snakes, all of which appeared to be vipers. If you have the time head over to the small museum where you can see large cobras, some monkeys, a beautiful albino python and perhaps the biggest snake I have ever seen, a reticulated python that measured over 20 feet long and I am quite sure could swallow my 5 year old whole! Shaking with fear...check!
Tip: Get some drinks outside the temple or bring your own as there were none for sale inside and it is HOT!
Taluk Bahang Forest Park
Another great spot for outdoor fun is the Forest Park located near the Butterfly Garden on the Northern part of the island. Inside the park there is something for everyone. A forest museum showcases the types of plants and trees located on the island, 4 well marked walking trails weave throughout the 32 beautiful hectares, and a playground and swimming pools complete with slides make it a perfect spot to spend a few hours. Entrance to the park is free but the museum will cost 1 RM or roughly 30 cents. There are bathrooms inside the park but no services inside for food or drinks so bring your own.
Tip: Bring bug spray as we got eaten alive!
Cornwallis Fort
Fort Cornwallis is an old fort located on the NE corner of Penang. If your kids are into Mine craft, knights, and cannons then this will be a really fun way to spend a couple hours. There is also a playground located outside and some prison cells for when the kids get out of hand! Certainly not a full day outing but if you are in the area nothing says fun like an ammunition room. Although it may just be me, the mom with 3 boys:)
Tip: Read up on the history with your kids before going, it really puts the whole picture together better that way and in our opinion it was really fascinating stuff!
Orangutan Island
Okay, this is not technically in Penang but as it was an easy drive from Penang and we all had such a great time I just had to include it in the list. Orangutan island in Bukit Merah is doing some wonderful work rehabilitating Orangutans and slowly re releasing them into the wilds of Borneo. It took just 1 hour to get there from the Penang side of the bridge and it was a day full of boat rides, friendly knowledgeable tour guides, and amazingly close up encounters with orangutans of all ages.
Tip: Head there early enough to enjoy not only the orangutans but also the wildlife parks and water park that is located in the same area.
Penang Youth Park
As far as free parks go this one has got to be top of the list! Huge playgrounds, skating park, paths for biking or jogging, pools for swimming or wading, and a beautifully landscaped park can all be enjoyed free of charge from dawn until dusk. Even when it is hot so much of the park is covered with beautiful trees providing shade that it makes it bearable. When not sightseeing this is a great spot to take the kids to burn off some steam!
Tip: Be aware of monkeys and do not eat or carry food anyplace that you see them around! They can bite so avoid them and if bitten get to a doctor as soon as you can!
Adventure Zone, Batu Ferringhi
Penang can get really hot! So if you want to beat the heat, or are facing a rainy day then Adventure Zone, in Batu Ferringhi, Penang, is your best bet. There are slides, rope challenges, a toddler area, video games, and fun for every age range. Plus there is free wifi in the lobby with nice tables and chairs so you can catch up on work or choose to go in and play along with the kids. There is also a Segway course outside for an added cost and a small cafe inside serving drinks and snacks. A great way to spend a couple hours!
Tip: To save some money, bring some food or water in with you. I wouldn't bring a complete meal ,but water and some granola is fine. Also, do not go on the weekends when it is more busy and the fee for entrance increases.
If you have extra time and the kids are up for it there are also several beaches to relax on, great shopping in Georgetown (Little India), fruit and spice gardens, and numerous other temples (Burmese temple on Burma Rd is one of our favorites) and mosques (floating mosque) to explore throughout the island!
Do you have any tips of great spots for families in Penang? If so please share below!
Located near the KLCC park and Suria mall is a small but beautifully maintained aquarium, called Aquaria.
Aquaria is located a short walk from KLCC. There are 2 options, a walk in the park or through the tunnel originating on the ground floor of Suria KLCC mall. As you approach the aquarium there are several different places to eat which I would suggest as there is no food available inside the aquarium itself.
Now this is not cheap outing compared to other diversions! We knew it wouldn't be, but it was still hard to swallow the 200RM ($67) bill as we entered. Amazing how our perspective changes. Sixty-seven dollars wouldn't but one ticket to Sea World.
That was for all 5 of us and our oldest being 13 counts as an adult but still, we don't spend that much on lodging in a day so that was a tough pill to swallow. But we were hoping that it would be worth it. I have found that aquariums are often hit or miss but typically carry the same high entry costs. I was skeptical.
Once inside you move along through a type of maze ensuring that you pass by all the exhibits. It is really set up well to steer traffic. The tanks were all beautifully maintained and the entire facility was very clean. There are piranhas, sea otters, touch tanks with starfish and sharks, arapaimas, coral reefs, sea horses, and more.
The highlight though had to be the huge walk through tunnel. The tank was full of sharks, rays, humongous fish, turtles and so much more. There is an actual people mover as a walkway in order to keep the crowds moving, but rest assured there is also a small strip of normal non moving ground for all your photo taking moments.
Tip: Do bring your very best camera equipment. I had a simple point and shoot and as you can see the photos did not turn out as I would have wanted. Flash is not allowed and when you couple that with the blue lighting and dark background it's a recipe for a whole lot of unwanted photos that you spent lots of time trying to perfect. Thank goodness for digital!
Tip: Do take your time in the tunnel because once you leave it you are not allowed back in. A definite negative to Aquaria in my opinion!
The aquarium also offers special programs, feeding shows, overnight camps, and diving with sharks. Feeding shows are included in the entrance but the camps and swimming with sharks come with an added fee. If you have a spare afternoon, be sure to visit!
Aquaria is located a short walk from KLCC. There are 2 options, a walk in the park or through the tunnel originating on the ground floor of Suria KLCC mall. As you approach the aquarium there are several different places to eat which I would suggest as there is no food available inside the aquarium itself.
Now this is not cheap outing compared to other diversions! We knew it wouldn't be, but it was still hard to swallow the 200RM ($67) bill as we entered. Amazing how our perspective changes. Sixty-seven dollars wouldn't but one ticket to Sea World.
That was for all 5 of us and our oldest being 13 counts as an adult but still, we don't spend that much on lodging in a day so that was a tough pill to swallow. But we were hoping that it would be worth it. I have found that aquariums are often hit or miss but typically carry the same high entry costs. I was skeptical.
Once inside you move along through a type of maze ensuring that you pass by all the exhibits. It is really set up well to steer traffic. The tanks were all beautifully maintained and the entire facility was very clean. There are piranhas, sea otters, touch tanks with starfish and sharks, arapaimas, coral reefs, sea horses, and more.
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| Arapaima, basically an enormous catfish |
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| Lionfish |
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| Nautilus |
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| They had a reptile and arachnid area as well |
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| One of the touch tanks, always a hit! |
Tip: Do bring your very best camera equipment. I had a simple point and shoot and as you can see the photos did not turn out as I would have wanted. Flash is not allowed and when you couple that with the blue lighting and dark background it's a recipe for a whole lot of unwanted photos that you spent lots of time trying to perfect. Thank goodness for digital!
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| That is one huge fish! |
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| One of my favorites, look at that smile! |
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| In the tunnel |
The aquarium also offers special programs, feeding shows, overnight camps, and diving with sharks. Feeding shows are included in the entrance but the camps and swimming with sharks come with an added fee. If you have a spare afternoon, be sure to visit!
On the 4th floor of Suria KLCC mall you will find, alongside the many opportunities to shop, a wonderful science museum called Petrosains. It is a science discovery center, covering 70,000 square feet, built by the Petronas Oil company.
The center was started to show the commitment the company has towards being socially responsible but it is really a way to teach the history of technological advances of the oil industry, that part I don't love.
But, and it is a big but, we had a great time and the kids learned so many different types of science fact that it was hard to feel sour about the oil component. They seem to embrace many sciences and even digg the various types of alternative energy sources.
Unfortunately, we have picked a 2-week chunk of time that coincides with the school vacations so our usual, wait until the weekdays and then we'll have the place to ourselves, is just not working out. We decided to head out and just accept that we will have to wait a bit.
We took a free shuttle offered by our hotel but you can access KLCC by train, bus or taxi. As we approached the door we realized quickly that waiting in lines was a certainty. We arrived around 11am but the first possible entrance time was for 130pm.
No problem as we needed to eat anyway. I highly suggest you eat a meal before entering the museum because there is very little food inside and it takes 3-4 hours to go through the whole museum.
We returned at our allotted time and got into line. There was a free interactive play area right next to the line so the kids can still be entertained as you wait. We only waited a few minutes and then we were moved to another line. This was the point when our little guy decided that was enough waiting, he is still working on some tolerance issues:) So we stored our bag (free of charge to use the lockers) so I could help him more and got out a lolli and suddenly the world was in balance again.
We only waited about 15 minutes and then found ourselves on a ride, which coupled with the candy, made everyone happy. A 4-5 person car comes along, and brings you to the actual start of the museum. Really it was quite an efficient way to have people enter the museum, as it staggered everyone's entrance in such a way so that there was no real back up at the exhibits.
For the next 4 hours we enjoyed it all; watching small experiments being performed and explained, digging for dinosaur bones, exploring an oil rig, learning the different types of alternative energy, creating and racing our own cars, withstood a hurricane, dug with an excavator, and so much more. My guys are 13, 8, and 4 and there really aren't very many museums that can entertain them all, but Petrosains did it!
The center was started to show the commitment the company has towards being socially responsible but it is really a way to teach the history of technological advances of the oil industry, that part I don't love.
But, and it is a big but, we had a great time and the kids learned so many different types of science fact that it was hard to feel sour about the oil component. They seem to embrace many sciences and even digg the various types of alternative energy sources.
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| Entrance to the Petrosains Discovery Center |
We took a free shuttle offered by our hotel but you can access KLCC by train, bus or taxi. As we approached the door we realized quickly that waiting in lines was a certainty. We arrived around 11am but the first possible entrance time was for 130pm.
No problem as we needed to eat anyway. I highly suggest you eat a meal before entering the museum because there is very little food inside and it takes 3-4 hours to go through the whole museum.
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| The calm before the storm! |
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| The dark ride on the way in! |
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| Exploring simple machines |
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| A replicated oil platform, complete with living quarters |
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| Excavating! |
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| Looking for fossils |
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| This was a really cool area! |
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| A great day! |
The Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia are a national icon on a grand scale. Once the tallest buildings in the world (from 1998-2004) and still the tallest twin towers in the world, it is not just the height alone that is so impressive, especially at night.
I knew coming to KL that the Petronas towers were something I wanted to be sure and see, but I had no idea just how amazing and beautiful they actually were. We have been here for about 2 weeks now and have spent at least 4-5 days in front of the towers admiring it from many different angles.
The architecture, the sparkling lights of evening, the fountains outside, close up views of the skybridge, the beautiful 17 acre KLCC park, shopping at Suria KLCC mall, or just standing below to feel the grandiosity of it all....there is no shortage of ways to enjoy this area.
Our favorite time was in the evening when the towers just seem to sparkle. I do not know a lot about architecture but the shapes and angles unique to the building seem to be a big reason for this. Whether you are up close or have a nice view of the towers in the evening they have a way of making you smile.
Sadly, the one thing we decided NOT to do is to go up the towers. The cost, to me, is exorbitant at 80RM ($28) per adult and 60RM ($20) per child. As a family of 5 this adds up quickly and is just not worth it but of course that is a personal decision.
Tip: You can go down to the ticketing area to view the models, play some children's games, and watch a short film on the making of the towers...all for free!
KLCC (park, mall, and towers) can be accessed via rapid KL train, buslines, or by taxi. There is also an aquarium and Petrosains science museum located in the mall, both very worthwhile to visit.
I knew coming to KL that the Petronas towers were something I wanted to be sure and see, but I had no idea just how amazing and beautiful they actually were. We have been here for about 2 weeks now and have spent at least 4-5 days in front of the towers admiring it from many different angles.
The architecture, the sparkling lights of evening, the fountains outside, close up views of the skybridge, the beautiful 17 acre KLCC park, shopping at Suria KLCC mall, or just standing below to feel the grandiosity of it all....there is no shortage of ways to enjoy this area.
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| The 7 story mega mall |
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| Huge playground with a view |
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| The entire playground has this rubberized surface, much safer |
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| This is one of the largest playgrounds I have ever seen |
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| Also a large free wading pool |
The towers took 7 years to construct, being built on the world's deepest foundation of 120 meters. The buildings have 88 floors each made out of reinforced concrete, steel, and glass. Interestingly, because of the high cost of steel, the towers use a high strength super concrete.
The architecture resembles that of Islamic art, appropriate as Islam is Malaysia's official religion. There is a skybridge walkway that links the 2 towers, providing an interesting aesthetic as well as a secondary route for emergency evacuation should that ever be needed. The pinnacles atop each tower finish off the aesthetic appeal. Each is over 73 meters high and were assembled outside the country and raised in to place whole. They serve as a spot for aircraft warning lights and also fit into the overall Islamic look to the buildings.
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| The curves of the building are just stunning |
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| The skybridge, lifted in one piece up to it's spot |
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| A revolving sculpture in one of the outdoor lobby's |
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| View from our room |
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| Fountains go all day but at night they become breathtaking |
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| Getting darker |
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| This is just below the towers themselves! |
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| You could stay for hours enjoying the perfect weather and beautiful city scenery |
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| Favorite moment, hands down! |
Sadly, the one thing we decided NOT to do is to go up the towers. The cost, to me, is exorbitant at 80RM ($28) per adult and 60RM ($20) per child. As a family of 5 this adds up quickly and is just not worth it but of course that is a personal decision.
Tip: You can go down to the ticketing area to view the models, play some children's games, and watch a short film on the making of the towers...all for free!
KLCC (park, mall, and towers) can be accessed via rapid KL train, buslines, or by taxi. There is also an aquarium and Petrosains science museum located in the mall, both very worthwhile to visit.
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