Turtles are cute reptiles, and since I love these animals, during my last visit to Kuantan, Pahang province, Malaysia, I stopped at the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary to see how they care of this endangered species. An early research informed me that turtles scientific name is Testudines or Chelonii. Turtles are the oldest ever living reptile group, with the largest specimen of chelonian being the leatherback sea-turtle, or Dermochelys coriacea, a turtle living in either fresh water or sea that can reach 2mt in length and weight over 900kg! Tortoise are turtles that dwell in rivers and fresh water streams, much smaller in size than the sea turtles. Their body is usually covered with shells that develop from their fibs, and that function as a shield. The only things you ever see on their living body are the head and the legs. Even though turtles are cold-blooded, like other reptiles, they lay eggs on earth and breathe air. This unique creature is believed to have night vision and intelligence as they can navigate mazes better than white rats. Their diet is dependent on the environment they live in, and consists mostly of meat and plants. Turtle in Malaysian language is Penyu; there are 4 main species of turtles in my country: the Green-Chelion Mydas, the Hawksbill-Eretmochelys imbricata, the Leatherback-Dermochelys coriacea and the Olive Ridley-Lepidochelys olivacea. Pahang has 5 major landing and nesting areas for these sea turtles: Pantai Chendor, Cherating, Tioman, Sri Buat Island and Rompin Beach. The most common turtle found in these areas is the Green-Chelion Mydas, which usually land on the shore between April and September. But back to my visit now: the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary was established in 1972 on an land plot of 0.33 hectare as a turtle hatchery in an effort to protect this species; it was opened to public in 1998 and it is run by the Department of Fisheries. I immediately felt the center is the perfect place for turtles, being next to the sea and in an area where turtles usually come to lay eggs. The main purpose of this center, apart from being a tourist attraction, is the collection of turtle eggs and the organizing of hatching programs. The hatcheries can be easily seen as they are located near the beach. A turtle’s eggs incubation period is around 50 to 60 days, and the eggs usually hatch at night. In order to prevent baby turtles being killed by other predators, they are immediately released to sea by the center. The period for a turtle to become mature is around 20 to 50 years, and only one in 1000 turtles is believed to live that long. While at the exhibition area, I collected some info from the several boards: I discovered that Cherating turtle sanctuary carries out a few research programs on turtles, as well as educating the public on awareness and on the importance of conserving these species. I was also happy to learn that those caught on capturing turtles are liable to a heavy fine and to a term of imprisonment not exceeding two years, or both, under the Fisheries Act. I hope this is effecting in stopping ‘human predators’. Walking around the centre, I saw plenty of turtles in pond, turtles that are part of the center’s hatching program. They look sooooo cute, especially their babies. There are plenty of information boards and other ocean species on display, for the pleasure of the general public, dugongs and species of fish endemic to these waters. Over all, a pleasure time spent at an amazing place! Cherating turtle sanctuary has a souvenir shop and can provide camping facilities for those who want to experience turtle’s hatchlings program. Price range for pitching a tent is around RM30. Cherating turtle sanctuary is open to public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 5.30 pm, with lunch hours being observed, and 3 hours dedicated to prayer every Friday. Admission is FREE, and donation (in the box provided) is appreciated. To get there, from Kuantan take a bus, a taxi or drive, following directions towards Kemamam/Kuala Terengganu. The sanctuary is located just next to Asia’s First Club Med in Cherating, Pahang, 50 Kilometres from Kuantan city. For more information on Cherating turtle sanctuary, you can email penyuhg@tm.net.my.

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Kuantan is the state capital of Pahang, the third largest state in Malaysia after Sarawak and Sabah. Nestled in the mouth of Kuantan River, facing the South China Sea, Kuantan is populated mainly by Malay, Chinese and Indian ethnic people, and has a population of about 600,000 people. Sent on a mission by Asian Itinerary to collect traveling information and discover more parts of Malaysia not yet exposed to you, our dear readers, I without any hindrance set off to visit Kuantan. Since Kuantan is mostly famous for its beautiful beaches along its long coastline, in this article I wish to expose to you the three best-rated beaches in the area. Teluk Cempedak Located about 5 kilometres from Kuantan city, this is known as the resident area for the royal clan; in fact, most of the landscaped gardens, villas and buildings you find along the way there belong to royal family. Thanks to its white sandy beach, a coast dotted with rocks of different sizes and the several coconut plantations,Teluk Cempedak is a must visit area for tourists and locals. This is the perfect area for a plethora of activities, the most popular being sunbathing, water-sports, swimming, snorkeling, sailing and surfing. Malaysia is near the equator line, which means lots of sun throughout the year: get your mat, towel and sun lotion and enjoy the bake! Picnic and camping are also recommended as the beach is amazingly clean. Besides this, Teluk Cempedak offers fresh air, good for those who want to go walking or jogging: I advise a walk on the sand or alternatively along the pedestrian walk arranged by the local government. This pedestrian walk connects you directly to the jungle trekking routes. I used this path and I can guarantee fun: amuse at the beautiful environment, watch the monkeys and admire their lifestyle, take pictures and observe the amazing diversity of the tree population. Suitable for family and friends, Teluk Cempedak has a children playground, a volleyball court and some battery-operated cars to feed your needs. There are a few good restaurants and shops for dining, and for your social and business lifestyle. But visiting won’t be enough. For a tourist like me, who always want some memories from the places I visit, getting a fridge magnet is a must. There are plenty of stores and shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts for you to take back home. If you are visiting Kuantan, Teluk Cempedak is a must must must do! To get to Teluk Cempedak, catch a bus, a taxi or drive; the journey should take less than 7 minutes from Kuantan city. The best accommodation option is the Hyatt Regency Kuantan Hotel. Pantai Batu Hitam This translates into English as the ‘Black Stone Beach’. The beach area is known by this name thanks to the presence of different black and dark stones, similar to those found in Teluk Cempedak, which are mainly brown. There is a group of big black stone along the beach that s believe to have originated from an ancient volcano eruption. The fantastic view of this beach, with black stones sparkling in the sun and the amazing beach, is a sight to behold. Activities there include swimming, sightseeing, picnic, camping and finding a seashells. Not far from this beach there is a seafood stall where you can indulge yourself in local cooking. The most recommended dish there is the grilled fish, known as Ikan Bakar in the local language, Bahasa. Pantai Batu Hitam can be reached either by self-drive, bus or taxi, and it is located about 10-kilometers away from the town. Duta Sands Beach Resort is the hotel we recommend. Pantai Cherating This beach, located about 47 kilometres from Kuantan town, is famed as Asia’s first Club Med. Pantai Cherating is well catered for visitors, with a wide range accommodation – resorts, chalets, hotel – as well as services like restaurants and souvenir stalls. Apart from that, the scenery offered by the beach, with lots of coconut trees swinging in the wind and an amazingly green sea, is overwhelming. Pantai Cherating is popular amongst Europeans. This is probably because it has a truly exotic feel to it, and thanks to the beautiful surrounding nature. The area, needless to say, offers a wide range of activities like kayaking, surfing and watching fireflies and turtles. Pantai Cherating is recommended for families, honeymoon and picnic groups. To get there you can either take a taxi, a bus or drive on your own. I drove, which made me feel free from sticky schedules and quick stopovers. I took my time and stopped anywhere I pleased. _______________________________________________ I hope the above information stirs your curiosity, and that these three beaches inspire lots of fun under the sun. Kuantan can be reached by plane, car or bus. If you plan to arrive by plane, both Airasia (www.airasia.com) and Malaysian Airlines (www.malaysiaairlines.com) cover the Kuala Lumpur-Kuantan route. If you are driving from Penang, you will amaze at the several beautiful places and yummy delicacies you will encounter along the way… Enjoy Pahang and Kuantan! Asian Itinerary stayed at Le Village Beach Resort

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Are you in Kuantan area, Pahang province, Malaysia? Are you sweating, feeling hot and want to jump in cool water? Well, Sungai Pandan waterfall is the best options for you. Also known as Panching waterfall, this waterfall is situated deep in the forest, past the small town, the army camp and the quarry area. Considered to be the Malaysia’s most beautiful waterfall, Sungai Pandan waterfall is a popular picnic and recreational area for the Kuantan local community. It consists of beautiful cascading rapids from the hill down to the giant rocks, culminating in large pool, which makes it attractive and ideal from swimming.  Sungai Pandan waterfall is really suitable for everyone, especially for those with families as they can enjoy the cool water splashing and it is safe for kids too thanks to the shallow depth of water – just at knee level – so kids can safely play around the area. Sungai Pandan is part of a Forest Reservation Area called Hutan Lipur Sungai Pandan, encompassing an area of about 25 hectares. Its forest is gazetted as an untouched treasure to preserve and conserve, home to several species of tropical trees, animals and insects. For activities, Sungai Pandan waterfall is ideal for picnic, outing and camping, hanging out with families, friends and colleagues. I suggest taking advantage of the rest huts and barbecue grill areas for your deserved breaks. For those who want to explore nature, head for a walk along the jungle trails: reach the top of the fall, and follow the course of the gentle stream to a suspension bridge, location suitable for picture-taking of the whole waterfalls area. I must remind you not to climb the rocks to the waterfalls as the stones are steep, slippery, sharp and potentially dangerous. Besides, you are also reminded to read the safety information provided at the entrance for your own safety. Like other places, Sungai Pandan waterfall is also equipped with a few amenities which include a parking lot, changing rooms, toilets and a gift and souvenir shops. Furthermore, you should not worry about food as there are catering stalls in the vicinity, though you are welcome to carry your own food along with you. For me, Sungai Pandan waterfall is a great place to cool down, to release and to free the mind from the tensions of everyday life. Make sure you bring a towel and some changing clothes so you do not miss out on the opportunity to swim near this amazing waterfall. Pampered yourself in crystal clear Sungai Pandan waterfall. Sungai Pandan waterfall is 25 kilometres from Kuantan town, which takes about 30 minutes by transport. Self-drive and taxi are available. Entrance fee is reasonable at RM 2 for adult and RM 1 for children. It is open to public from 7 am to 6 pm. For more information about directions and ticketing, contact info@pandanwaterfall.com or browse http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g298296-d5074281-Reviews-Sungai_Pandan_Waterfall-Kuantan_Kuantan_District_Pahang.html Asian Itinerary stayed at Le Village Beach Resort

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