Fusion Hotel Group in Vietnam offers a variety of curated experiences to celebrate Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day and the upcoming April 30 holiday, whether guests prefer unwinding by a tranquil beach or immersing themselves in the vibrant rhythm of city life. Getaways become even more rewarding with exclusive Fusionlife member benefits, offering up to 25% off on room bookings, spa treatments and dining. Sign up here: https://fusionhotelgroup.com/fusionlife/. Grand Royal Riverside Hue – Fusion Collection, in the former imperial capital, offers two specially designed menus at Jade & Ginger restaurant. The “Pha Tam Giang” menu showcases the essence of Hue cuisine, while the Mediterranean menu draws inspiration from Italian and French flavors. Prices start from VND 650,000 per set, inclusive of one complimentary beverage. Guests can also indulge in a 75-minute rejuvenation treatment at Sả Wellness, featuring 30 minutes of sauna to relax the body, followed by 45 minutes of personalized therapy options such as back, neck and shoulder relief, foot acupressure, facial care or head massage. Prices start from VND 750,000. Adding to the experience, The Amber Lounge introduces “A Tale of Two Times” afternoon tea set, priced at VND 300,000 for two guests. At Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, guests can soak in natural hot springs, enjoy authentic Japanese-style onsen and embrace the “breakfast anytime, anywhere” concept. A range of wellness activities helps restore balance to body, mind and spirit for a truly rejuvenating retreat. Book in advance to enjoy room rates from VND 3,640,000 per room per night for two guests, inclusive of breakfast and wellness programs. Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang introduces a Japanese dining experience available for lunch and dinner at Fresh restaurant, featuring a selection of premium seafood and imported ingredients such as salmon, tuna and seasonal catches, alongside sushi rolls and salmon rice sets. Prices start from VND 1,600,000 per set, including two complimentary glasses of sangria, rosé or white wine. Guests can also enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, including advanced facial care or relaxing foot reflexology, from VND 990,000. The Ocean Resort by Fusion Quy Nhon creates a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere where traditional values blend seamlessly with modern resort living. A foam party at the central pool transforms the space into a whimsical wonderland, offering endless fun for both parents and children. Balance the excitement with a complimentary morning yoga session, or unwind at Maia Spa with 15% off all treatments. On April 30, enjoy a special chicken set made from locally sourced free-range chicken. The following evening, May 1, a cozy hotpot dinner featuring chicken or fresh seafood provides the perfect ending to a joyful holiday with loved ones. Stretching along the shores of Bai Dai Beach, Fusion Resort Cam Ranh hosts “Steak Night” every Tuesday and Thursday evening at the oceanfront Fresh restaurant. The menu features a wide selection of premium meats, including imported cuts such as Black Angus flank steak and Wagyu striploin, as well as Spanish pluma pork. The highlight of the experience is the “Farmers Platter to Share,” which includes a variety of meats served with sausages and two glasses of red wine, priced at VND 999,000. Guests can also choose from a range of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, Parmesan fries, grilled vegetables or a garden salad. At Fusion Suites Sai Gon, guests are welcomed with exclusive offers of up to 50% off room rates, alongside 30% savings on hotel services. Valid until Sept. 30, this promotion invites travelers to unwind, rediscover balance and be wrapped in moments of peace and comfort. Miss Thu restaurant at Fusion Original Saigon Centre introduces “The Taste of Unity” menu, celebrating the diversity and connection of Vietnamese cuisine. The menu brings together regional specialties, from yellowfin tuna with fermented dipping sauce and kaffir lime oil, to layered braised beef, traditional vegetable soup, Cha Ca La Vong, and a dessert of An Giang palm sugar sponge cake. Guests can enjoy dinner while watching fireworks in the heart of Saigon. Prices start from VND 1,000,000 per person. HIIVE by Fusion Binh Duong New City hosts its weekly outdoor “Grill & Chill” BBQ every Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Zest restaurant. Guests can savor a wide variety of Asian specialties, grilled meats, fresh seafood and desserts, with ticket prices ranging from VND 399,000 to VND 549,000 per person. Fusion Suites Vung Tau is offering complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability) until May 31, 2026, along with an additional 30% off 50-minute massage treatments at Maia Spa. On April 30, guests can also enjoy Japanese cuisine at KAIUN Lounge, located on the 19th floor at Fresh restaurant, while taking in panoramic views of the bay or city. The “Patriotic BBQ – Wagyu Night” event is available from VND 650,000 per guest. Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion is celebrating its two-millionth guest with a special campaign titled “Chief Chill Officer,” a unique initiative to find a guest to take on the ultimate relaxation experience. Guests who check in and share photos or videos of their stay will have the chance to win a grand prize of a three-day, two-night getaway in the Presidential Suite for four people, along with dining vouchers, spa treatments and other resort activities. The second prize includes a one-night stay with additional dining and experience benefits at the resort. For more details, visit: https://fusionhotelgroup.com/

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Broadbeach, located on Australia’s stunning Gold Coast, is a vibrant destination known for its pristine beaches, lively dining scene, and world-class shopping. If you’re planning to go to this beautiful destination with your family or with your partner, Broadbeach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. From beautiful coastlines to cultural attractions, there are countless reasons to make Broadbeach your next travel destination. Take a more in-depth look at what makes this seaside town a must-visit location — look no further! Discover the Best Accommodation Options in Broadbeach The first thing you want to look into is the right accommodation. Because this stunning location offers a wide range of options, visitors will go for the best accommodation Broadbeach for their budget and style. Many properties provide stunning views of the beach, direct access to local attractions, and high-quality amenities like spas, pools, and on-site dining, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Staying in central Broadbeach gives you easy access to the town’s highlights so that you can explore at your own pace. Thanks to a variety of accommodation styles available (including family-friendly resorts and chic boutique hotels), finding the perfect spot to unwind is effortless. Enjoy Beautiful Beaches and Surfing Spots Broadbeach is renowned for its pristine beaches, soft golden sands, and clear blue waters, a paradise for beach lovers and surfers alike. Whether you’re interested in sunbathing, swimming, or hitting the waves, the beach at Broadbeach caters to all. Surf enthusiasts will find excellent breaks for both beginners and experienced surfers, with local surf schools offering lessons for those new to the sport. This beautiful town also provides ample opportunities for water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach volleyball. Families can take advantage of patrolled areas so they can relax,  soak in the coastal vibes, and—most importantly—be safe. Explore the Thriving Dining and Nightlife Scene The town is home to an array of international cuisines so that every palate is satisfied. Pacific Fair and Oracle Boulevard are popular dining hotspots, where visitors can find everything from fresh seafood and tapas to modern Australian and Asian fusion dishes. As night falls, Broadbeach transforms into a lively entertainment hub with stylish bars, rooftop lounges, and nightclubs. Live music, themed events, and beachfront bars all create an exciting nightlife atmosphere that draws visitors from all over the world. Broadbeach’s dynamic dining and nightlife make it an ideal destination for foodies and party-goers alike. Shop at Pacific Fair and Oasis Shopping Centre For those who enjoy shopping, Broadbeach might be the right destination for some of the best retail spots on the Gold Coast. Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, one of the largest malls in Queensland, offers a mix of luxury brands, high-street retailers, and boutique stores. Due to its stylish design and variety of shops, Pacific Fair provides a unique shopping experience where you can find everything from fashion and accessories to home decor and electronics. Just a short walk away, the Oasis Shopping Centre features more shopping options, including local boutiques and specialty stores. Oasis also hosts a variety of restaurants and cafes, which is a great place to take a break and enjoy a coffee or meal during your shopping spree. Relax at Kurrawa Park and Enjoy the Coastal Vibe Kurrawa Park, located near the beach, is a popular spot for relaxation and family activities. With its large green spaces, playgrounds, and barbecue facilities, it’s an ideal location for picnics, outdoor gatherings, and strolls. The park often hosts community events and festivals, offering visitors a chance to experience local culture and enjoy live music or food markets. For those who prefer a more laid-back vibe, Kurrawa Park provides shaded areas and benches where you can sit back, take in the ocean view, and watch the world go by. The park’s proximity to the beach also allows you to combine a day of sunbathing with a peaceful nature retreat. Take Part in Cultural Experiences and Events Broadbeach has a rich cultural scene, with various events and festivals throughout the year that showcase music, art, and local talent. The Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival, held annually, attracts music lovers from around the globe, featuring live performances across multiple stages. Similarly, the Broadbeach Country Music Festival offers a chance to enjoy country tunes in a picturesque seaside setting. Beyond music festivals, Broadbeach hosts multiple art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers that provide a glimpse into Australia’s vibrant arts community. Visitors can explore exhibitions, attend workshops, or enjoy live performances, an enriching destination for those interested in arts and culture. Enjoy Proximity to Nearby Gold Coast Attractions The town’s central location on the Gold Coast is a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions. Visitors can access world-famous theme parks like Dreamworld, Sea World, and Warner Bros. Movie World, ideal for family-friendly entertainment. Nature lovers will also appreciate the nearby national parks, where hiking trails and scenic views await. The efficient public transportation links make it easy to explore neighboring areas such as Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, and Southport. Staying in Broadbeach gives you access to both the excitement of city attractions and the tranquility of coastal life. Unwind with Spa and Wellness Experiences If you are in to relax and rejuvenate, Broadbeach does not disappoint: the town provides an array of spa and wellness options. Many hotels and resorts feature in-house spas where visitors can enjoy massages, facials, and body treatments designed to soothe and revitalize. Yoga studios, wellness centers, and meditation classes are also widely available, allowing you to unwind both physically and mentally. Pampering yourself at a spa or wellness retreat provides the perfect balance to the adventure and excitement of Broadbeach’s attractions. Embrace the opportunity to recharge in a serene setting before heading back out to explore the sights and sounds of this vibrant coastal destination. Broadbeach is a destination that promises something for every type of traveler, from sun-seekers and food enthusiasts to culture lovers and adventure seekers. With its pristine beaches, exciting dining scene, and ample shopping, Broadbeach...

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Introduction Bali, often referred to as the “Island of the Gods,” is a tropical paradise that beckons travellers from all corners of the globe. Its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beaches make it a top destination for tourists. To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Bali, having a reliable and convenient mode of transportation is crucial. Echo Bali Car Rental, with its commitment to excellence and a wide range of services, stands out as a premier choice for exploring this enchanting island. Explore Bali with Ease Echo Bali Car Rental, with its user-friendly website at http://www.echobalicarrental.com, provides a comprehensive array of services designed to cater to all your transportation needs during your Bali adventure. Here are some of the great services that Echo Bali Car Rental offers: Diverse Fleet of Vehicles: Echo Bali Car Rental boasts a diverse fleet of well-maintained vehicles, ranging from compact cars to spacious SUVs, and even luxury options. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a group, or with family, they have the perfect vehicle to suit your needs. Affordable Rates: Traveling can be expensive, but Echo Bali Car Rental understands the importance of budget-conscious choices. They offer competitive rates that won’t break the bank, ensuring that you have more resources to explore and enjoy Bali to the fullest. Easy Online Booking: Planning your Bali trip is made hassle-free through their user-friendly website. You can conveniently browse their selection of vehicles, check availability, and make reservations online. This ensures a seamless and stress-free booking process. Airport Pickup and Drop-off: Echo Bali Car Rental provides airport pickup and drop-off services, making your arrival and departure convenient and worry-free. Their friendly and professional staff will be waiting for you at the airport, ready to assist you with your rental vehicle. Flexible Rental Periods: Whether you need a vehicle for a day, a week, or longer, Echo Bali Car Rental offers flexible rental periods to accommodate your itinerary. Additional Services: In addition to car rentals, they also provide additional services like GPS rental, child seats, and local SIM card rental, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable and safe journey. 24/7 Customer Support: Emergencies can happen anytime, and Echo Bali Car Rental understands this. Their 24/7 customer support ensures that you can reach out for assistance or information whenever you need it. Insurance Options: Travel with peace of mind knowing that Echo Bali Car Rental offers insurance options to protect you against unexpected events on the road. Local Knowledge: The staff at Echo Bali Car Rental are well-acquainted with Bali and its attractions. They can provide you with valuable local insights, tips, and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit. Conclusion Echo Bali Car Rental is more than just a car rental service; it’s your gateway to experiencing the magic of Bali with ease and convenience. With their diverse fleet, affordable rates, and commitment to customer satisfaction, they have earned their reputation as a trusted partner for travelers exploring the island. Whether you’re here for the serene beaches, lush rice terraces, vibrant nightlife, or cultural experiences, Echo Bali Car Rental is your ideal companion for a memorable Bali adventure. Visit their website at http://www.echobalicarrental.com today and embark on a journey to discover Bali‘s wonders at your own pace. ECHO BALI CAR RENTAL Jalan Pantai Sentosa No 4,Canggu, Seminyak, Bali Mr. Wayan Suyadnya   Tel: +62 87860131999  /  +62 85100151909 FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/echobalicarrental info@echobalicarrental.com Licence #: 99/SK/XI/2008. NPWP #: 1.672.139.1-901l http://www.echobalicarrental.com READ OUR ACCOUNT OF NORTH BALI HERE FOR AN AMAZING TREK OR HIKE IN THE NORTH OF BALI, READ HERE

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Chaweng Beach is Koh Samui‘s most popular stretch of powdery white sand. The wide bay has been the focal point for the development of the island’s tourism industry for decades. This majestic 5-km-long crescent is bordered by rocky headlands on either end, with an offshore reef and the tiny island of Koh Matlam to the north. Chaweng Beach offers great swimming and plenty of water sports, as well as dining and accommodation options. It has a fun, holiday atmosphere during Koh Samui‘s high seasons, with many sun-seekers lounging on the sand. It’s not the most secluded or peaceful of Samui‘s beaches, but everything you’d want is within a few metres of your sun lounger, such as cold drinks, snacks, and massages. What are the highlights of Chaweng Beach? On the whole, Chaweng Beach offers similar services and ambience along its entire length. The southern and middle sections have the deepest water, so these are the best areas for swimming and water sports. At the northern end, the water can be very shallow and there is a reef just offshore, which makes it ideal for small children. If you feel like a calmer alternative, head to the southern end of Chaweng, on the ring road travelling towards Lamai. You’ll find a separate little stretch of beach called Chaweng Noi, which has the smallest crowd. It also boasts good swimming near the shore. Good to know about Chaweng Beach Before heading out for a swim, look out for red flags, which warn you of dangerous currents at certain times of the year. Most of the time, Chaweng Beach is excellent for swimming. If you’re not staying at a hotel on Chaweng‘s beachfront, some resorts hire sun loungers and umbrellas for non-staying guests. It can be difficult to find shade during the hottest hours. An army of vendors patrols Chaweng Beach selling ice creams, fruit, grilled sweetcorn or chicken and Thai papaya salad, cold drinks, jewellery, and sarongs. They also offer services such as henna tattoos, hair braiding, and pedicures. Massages in Chaweng Beach The vendors of Chaweng Beach are mostly polite and not too persistent or pushy. But if any of the goods and services on offer appeal, this is a nice way to spend your money with local people. One great luxury for westerners is being able to have an affordable massage right on the beach. Chaweng is lined with massage pavilions attended by masseuses. Most of the beach masseuses offer Thai and oil massages, as well as aloe vera body wraps for those overdosed on the sun. The busiest time for the beach massage is between 4 pm and 6 pm, so it’s worth booking beforehand. Water sports in Chaweng Beach Chaweng Beach has a good range of sports available for the more active visitor. Just walking along the beach, you’ll find many places that rent jet-skis, catamarans and kayaks, and you can even indulge in some banana boat mayhem. Some of the best and reasonably priced hire outfits are located near the deeper waters at the southern end of the beach.Water sports providers near Chaweng Cove Beach Resort can arrange for wakeboarding, parasailing, and fishing trips. Some have speedboats that you can charter for a day-trip with a skipper. As the sun goes down, many of Chaweng’s beachfront restaurants put out tables on the sand. Candles and fairy lights create a romantic ambience, so dining under the stars is an ideal way to end to a day on Chaweng Beach.  

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Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort will usher in three of the most significant national public holidays on the Vietnamese calendar with an exciting program featuring lavish buffet dinners, a “seafood market” dining experience, steak night, high tea, competitions, arts and crafts, and more. This year, the annual Hung Kings Festival, Reunification Day and International Labour Day fall on Saturday April 29, Sunday April 30 and Monday May 1 respectively. The resort will host an array of activities including kayak racing, a sandcastle competition, conical hat painting, colouring, fingerprint painting and crafting Hung Kings leaf necklaces, the Vietnamese flag, paper flowers and paper kites. The resort’s Sasa restaurant will bring family and friends together to pay tribute to the Hung Kings, revered as the traditional founders and first kings of Vietnam, with a Hung Kings Buffet on April 29 brimming with fresh seafood, traditional Vietnamese delicacies, a diverse Asian corner and more. On April 30, Vietnam’s vibrant cuisine will take centre stage at Sasa’s Vietnamese BBQ Buffet. Staged from 6.30-9.30pm, both buffets offer a “Fun Kids Corner” replete with painting either the Hung Kings or the Vietnamese landscape, as well as balloon twisting and other fun kids activities. Breeza Beach Club, dubbed “the place to be in Ho Tram”, will stage its popular weekly Steak Night on April 28, serving a variety of tender cuts such as striploin, rib-eye, tenderloin and Black Angus tomahawk steaks. As the sun goes down on April 29, Breeza will bring the bustling atmosphere of Vietnam’s seafood markets to life on its vast outdoor terrace as part of its weekly “Ho Tram Seafood Market”. An array of large bamboo baskets filled with seafood caught from local waters that day are assembled, with diners choosing if their seafood and meats are grilled, wok-fried or steamed, and selecting from sauces and popular Vietnamese accompaniments. Making the most of the resort’s picture-perfect 1500sqm main pool overlooking Ho Tram beach, Pool Bar’s exclusive “Ultimate Cabana Experience” is served in a private cabana. Elyxr Café, situated adjacent to compelling reflecting ponds, also offers high tea. Both high teas are held daily from the beginning of April until June 23 from 3-5pm, affording a delectable selection of mini pastries, savory bites, tea, coffee and optional sparkling wine. The extensively refurbished YHI Spa, with 20 treatment rooms, hair salon and nail care facilities, a dedicated foot massage area and a Japanese-inspired landscape, is offering a sublime 150-minute “Top-To-Toes” journey. Comprising a body scrub, aromatic body massage and facial treatment, the package is designed to completely relax and nourish the whole body. Adults are encouraged to “reset” on their holiday by boosting their wellbeing and fitness with daily “Energy for Life Activities” such as sunrise yoga, tai chi, meditation, stretching, tabata, body combat, aqua fitness and tennis. Kite flying, hair styling, chess competitions, sack races, water balloons, and mini basketball are among many activities on offer to entertain kids and teenagers. Outdoor movie nights cater to all ages. “There isn’t a more desirable place to be on the water in Vietnam with family and friends during the upcoming holiday period than right here on Ho Tram beach, within an easy commute from Ho Chi Minh City and yet a world away from the city’s hustle and bustle,” said the resort’s general manager Alvaro Berton. Live seafood specials of the day at Vietnamese dining restaurant Muoi, an “Asian Style Burger” at Pool Bar and a “Hummus Monthly Special” at Breeza are also among many offerings from the resort’s diverse dining landscape. For more information or to make a booking, visit www.melia.com, email info@meliahotram.com or call +84 (0) 254 378 9000. The Hung Kings Buffet and Vietnamese BBQ Buffet are each priced at VND 999,000++ per child aged four to 11, VND 1,599,000++ per adult with free-flow soft drink, juice, and water, and VND 1,899,000++ per adult with free-flow soft drink, juice, water, beer and wine. The Ultimate Cabana Experience at the Pool Bar and High Tea at Elyxr are each priced at VND 450,000++ for two guests including tea and coffee, and VND 750,000++ for two guests with tea, coffee and sparkling wine. YHI Spa’s 150-minute Top-To-Toes journey is priced at VND 2,690,000++ per guest.

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Bangkok is an awesome place to visit but as the city streets are often chaotic and crowded, you might want to take time out from the hustle and bustle to relax and de-stress for a little while.  Thankfully, there are all kinds of ways to regain your inner peace, so if you’re planning a Bangkok vacation, we recommend the following.  #1: Choose the right hotel When finding a place to stay in Bangkok, you will notice that some hotels have more relaxation options than others.  The riverside Bangkok hotels are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a soul, mind, and body retreat in scenic river surroundings. But consider all of the other hotels in the city before you make a choice, and find the one that is right for your particular wellness needs.  #2: Achieve inner peace at a meditation center The benefits of meditation are plenty but if you live in a busy town or city, you might struggle to gain inner peace if there are lots of distractions nearby.  The same applies to Bangkok, which isn’t the quietest city to visit, but there are lots of meditation centers within and around the outskirts of the city that will provide you with the relaxation space you need.    #3: Immerse yourself in a floating pod The things we see, hear, and smell on a daily basis can add to our stress levels. This is why many people choose to escape from their everyday surroundings by getting themselves into a sensory-deprived state.  When in Bangkok, you can do this by immersing yourself in one of the floating pods at Bangkok Float Center.  As each pod contains a highly-concentrated Epsom salt solution, you can experience total weightlessness (a zero gravity state) when you submerge yourself into the calming water.  According to the Center’s website, you can “achieve the deepest form of relaxation known,” so if this is something you’re craving on your trip, book a pod and discover a relaxation experience you will never forget. #4: Enjoy a place of beauty There are many beautiful places to visit in Bangkok and some of them are perfect for those looking to escape from the busyness of the city.  Phu Khao Thong (The Golden Mountain) is a definite highlight if you want to explore a jungle oasis rich with waterfalls, flowering plants, and the soothing sound of birdsong. Lumpini Park is one of the best parks in Bangkok, with its gorgeous greenery and a beautiful artificial lake on which you can take a paddleboat for a leisurely ride. When you have finished exploring, you can take a yoga or tai-chi class while gazing in awe at the incredible backdrop around you.  Bang Krachao is another highlight. This is a small island located on the Chao Phraya River that contains thousands of mangrove trees that eat up the air pollution that exists in the city. You can explore this serene paradise on foot or by hiring a bike (or put your feet up on the back of a taxi motorbike). We also recommend The Bangkok Grand Palace, which will transport you to another world with its mystical atmosphere, the smell of incense, and opulent surroundings. This is a popular tourist attraction though, so you won’t be able to avoid people here.  __________________________ These are just some of the ways to relax on your Bangkok vacation but there is much more to experience in the city if you head here for a holiday. Check out the other articles on our website to learn more about the city and the amazing locations that should form a part of your Asian itinerary.   

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Klong Muang Dream House is an amazing little corner of paradise set in the Koh Kwang area of Klong Muang beach, in the Southern Thai province of Krabi, 10km from Ao Nang Beach and 20km from Krabi Town. It consists of a great range of 10 self-contained apartments in two-stories houses distributed around a small garden bordering the beach. The structure is minutes away from all amenities and facilities in the area, namely health saloons and massage parlors, restaurants and pubs, minimarkets and more. The apartments are spacious, a generous 50mt2 each, and comprise living room equipped with a sofa bed for the extra guest, flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a kitchenette with coffee and tea facilities, and a good sized fridge. All the necessary for that snack or take away meal at home when you do not feel like going out at all. The bedrooms feature a great wooden set with king-sized bed, and are air-conditioned as well. The whole apartment is tastefully decorated in local style, with designer’s lamps and sized photo prints on the walls by the owners themselves. The apartments have either balconies (on 1st floor) or verandahs (ground floor) that are both spacious and airy, and feature garden table and chair. Some sport a stunning sea-view! Breakfast is optional but advised, since it is served at the beach shack restaurant directly on the sand, for that tropical feeling you have dreamed of. The feeling you get is well-worth the few extra thb. The breakfast set is American. Should you have vegetarian or other kind of special requirement, do not forget to mention it when you do the booking. But the best feature of Klong Muang Dream House has to be the service. Owner Alis is an excellent host, she tells guests all necessary notions for a fun and trouble-free stay, ensures all is well in the assigned apartment, then leaves you at peace for the duration of your stay. She is always on stand-by at the front office, ready to please you with information, to book a tour or a taxi when needed, and she goes the extra mile to make clients comfortable. Alis and her partner speak several languages, so communication is never a problem there. Klong Muang Dream House facilities include free parking on site, tour booking, airport transfer, speedboat and longtail boat reservation, car hire and bus and plane ticket service. I really had a wonderful stay at Klong Muang, and this was especially thanks to Dream House. It was a fantastic way to spend my well-deserved holiday. To book a room at Klong Muang Dream House, click HERE!

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I had been mentioning about the beauty and legend of the Mount Santubong in my previous articles, yet I have never shared anything about trekking in Mount Santubong, and the reason is simple: I have never got a chance to do it. It was then that I told myself: “Cato, get out from the chair and make something different in your life”. It made sense, so when, while attending the 2016 Rainforest World Music Festival I was invited by my teammates and media friends to join them for a morning walk there, I said yes, and so did my colleague Phyllis. I was so happy she was willing to join me on this adventure. I must admit that at first we almost change the plans as we were so tired from the festival. The previous night’s concerts had lasted until 1am, and that night we were busy dancing and singing with the band, to the point I have to tell you that Phyllis and I made the perfect back up singers for them!! Hilarious isn’t it? However, on meeting up with our editor Thomas and with a group of Indonesian friends, we still merged and went ahead with the planned schedule. We were slightly late doe to the indecision, but we still managed to start the hike. The journey was made easy by the fact that we were lodged at the Damai Beach Resort  – thanks Sarawak Tourism Board for that – which is less than a 5 minutes drive from the trekking starting point. By the time we reached the information centre at the Santubong Forest Reserve Office, placed at the mountain’s foothill, it was already 9am. Matthew the kind officer gave us a map and we were on the way. We wrote our name down at the visitors’ list and were soon on the way up. There are two trekking options: one, the shortest, is a circular route to the Santubong Waterfall; the other is the harsh trek to the peak of Mount Santubong. My friend and I opted for the shortest one, also due to the fact that the time in our hands was limited. I could still feel exhausted because of the previous night limited sleep, yet my enthusiasm for climbing was still burning. Maybe it was because I could take lots of pictures to match my articles, or perhaps it was thanks to my friend Phyllis, with whom I chatted a lot along the way, or could it have been thanks to the cool air and clear breeze I was experiencing? Whatever it was, I was so happy about the trip. It was when we arrived at the fork that Thomas, joining a group of students from Perah in Malaysia, continued the trek towards the top and we all continued as scheduled towards the Santubong Waterfall. It was a tough journey at first; we passed areas covered in stones and some of the track was not so clear after all. Yet, we paid attention to the red and blue markings first and to the blue later and we were fine. To recap: red ribbons towards the peak, blue ribbons towards circular trek. We marvelled at the several species of trees, small water flows, armies of ants, bountiful plant and a few wild flowers. We negotiated a couple of rope-aided climb, which reminded us of Tarzan movies, but the walk was smooth overall. Phyllis and I reached Santubong Waterfall in less than an hour. I must admit we walked pretty slow, the reason behind it being that we both wanted to appreciate our time in the jungle, enjoying the scenery offered by this amazing mountain. At the waterfall we found a resting place besides the suspension bridge that goes across the stream. From there, we took great shots of the waterfall. Some may say this waterfall is too small, but I was happy with it. It is perfect for bathing and relaxing, and the water is crystal clear and really cool. There is the chance to clim to the top layer of the waterfall, but it is only recommended if you are sure-footed and experienced. Also, diving or diving in the pool is considered too risky. Phyllis and I did not have swimming costumes on, so we just cooled in it, refreshing legs and face. My Indonesian friends instead enjoyed to the full, swimming and bathing like kids. On the surrounding area, a few people were enjoying the peace and some had even arranged a BBQ. We then faced the way back with the same enthusiasm, and managed to meet a couple of adventurous girls from Kuala Lumpur. It was their first visit to Kuching so we shared a few tips with them. The way back took us about 30 minutes. We were so happy with the experience that we are already planning a trek to the top of Mount Santubong, which should be rewarding to say the least. But let me now share some information for those who are keen to visit this place in the future. The Santubong Waterfall is located within Santubong Forest Reserve, which was gazetted in 2007. It covers an area of 1410 hectares and the main attraction here is the mountain itself. Its peak is at 810 meters above sea level. It takes about 30 minutes to get to the waterfall, and 30 minutes back (which mainly depends on your pace and level of fitness). The trek to the top of Mount Santubong should take 3 to 4 hours for the 3.5 km hike. It is recommended to start early morning when the sun is not so strong, and to do a bit of stretching both before and after the trek. This should prevent cramps and injuries. Bring enough water and food, use proper shoes and bring insect repellent and sun block with you. The time to be back at headquarters to sign off is 3pm. DO NOT leave any rubbish behind, and DO collect rubbish if you see any, and take it down...

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