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Check FAQAbout Marco
Marco Ferrarese is a journalist and travel writer specializing on Malaysia, Southeast Asia and India. He earned a PhD in Anthropology with a focus on Malaysia from Monash University. Ferrarese has written about travel, culture and extreme music in Asia for a variety of international publications such as Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia, CNN Travel, BBC Travel, South China Morning Post, NIKKEI Asian Review, Roads & Kingdoms, Southeast Asia Globe, Perceptive Travel and Time Out. He is co-author of the 5th edition of "The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget", having researched chapters on West Malaysia, Sarawak, Brunei and Sabah. He is also the author of two fiction and non-fiction books - one, "Nazi Goreng" (2013) currently banned by the Malaysian government - and several academic essays published by Routledge, Rowman & Littlefield and Marshall-Cavendish. Know more at www.marcoferrarese.com
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Coffee farmers in Malaysia hope to plant the seeds of tourism in a remote corner of Sarawak, Borneo
In Long Banga, Sarawak, on the island of Borneo, coffee farmers are cultivating Malaysian liberica coffee as a signature product to attract tourists and improve their livelihoods. The liberica variety, known for its smoky flavor and floral aroma, is less common than arabica and robusta but well-suited to Southeast Asia's lowlands. The region's history with coffee dates back to the 19th century, but recent international recognition and local initiatives are renewing interest in its production. Anthropologist Alasdair Clayre and Earthlings Coffee co-founder Dr Kenny Lee Wee Ting are working with the community to develop a sustainable coffee economy. The Department of Agriculture Sarawak has supported the effort by donating seedlings to farmers. Beyond coffee, Long Banga offers cultural experiences and natural attractions, with potential for tourism development.
MYAirline Review: Is It the Right Choice for Your Next Trip?
MYAirline, a new Malaysian low-cost carrier, has been positively reviewed for its cheap fares, punctuality, and hassle-free check-in process. The airline, which started operations at the end of 2022, has already carried over a million passengers and is expanding its reach with international flights starting June 28, 2023. Despite some concerns over seat comfort due to fuel-saving measures, MYAirline is considered a strong competitor to AirAsia, offering more legroom and reasonable luggage upgrade prices. The airline is expected to grow its fleet and destinations, becoming a significant player for Southeast Asia-bound travelers.
Screen Grabs
South Korean cinema and TV series have gained international acclaim, particularly after the movie 'Parasite' won four Oscars. Netflix offers a variety of South Korean shows that have been successful globally, such as 'Squid Game', 'Hellbound', 'Kingdom', 'The Glory', 'All of Us Are Dead', and 'Money Heist Korea'. These series cover themes from class disparity and capitalism to historical fiction and school bullying, often blending genres like horror, drama, and thriller. 'Squid Game' and 'Hellbound' broke viewership records, while 'The Glory' became the top show worldwide on Netflix in early 2023.
Not Ready For Everest? Try These 5 Nepal Hiking Routes Instead
For travelers to Nepal not ready for the challenging Everest Base Camp trek, there are five alternative hiking routes offering stunning views and varying levels of difficulty. These include a city hike from Boudnath to Kopan Monastery, a Himalayan view trek to Nagarkot, a climb to Pulchowki Hill's summit, the reopened Langtang Trek in Langtang National Park, and the culturally rich Indigenous People's Trail through the Ramechhap district. Accommodations along these routes range from local guest houses to the Kathmandu Marriott Hotel, enhancing the trekking experience.
Penang’s Six Best Beaches, Our Choice
Penang is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town, but also offers beautiful beaches and islands. The article recommends six beaches: Batu Ferringhi, known for its long stretch of beach; Gertak Sanggul, a less known beach with local seafood; Monkey Beach and Pantai Kerachut in Penang National Park, known for white sands and a turtle sanctuary; Pantai Pasir Panjang, an unspoiled beach; Pantai Malindo, known for sunset views; and Pulau Aman, famous for seafood and its historical Golden Well.
The handmade paper that lasts 800 years
The article discusses the Zó project, a social enterprise founded by Tran Hong Nhung in Hanoi, Vietnam, aimed at reviving the ancient art of making Dó paper. This handmade, chemical-free paper, which can last up to 800 years, was once a staple for Vietnamese folk art but has been threatened by industrialization. The Zó project supports local villagers in Suoi Co by providing them with employment and preserving the traditional papermaking technique. The paper is made from the bark of rhamnoneuron balansae trees, requiring abundant water, space, and time. Despite challenges such as urbanization and pollution, the project has found success in training villagers and creating a sustainable business model, with plans to expand into an artist retreat. The article highlights the importance of cultural heritage and the difficulties faced by social enterprises in Vietnam.
Meet the Malaysian skinheads who are fighting off the subculture’s fascist stereotypes and striving to laud the 1960s scene’s original anti-racist ideals
See Up To 120 Meteors Per Hour, A Planet Parade, And More In December's Night Sky
The article highlights astronomical events expected to occur in December, including meteor showers that could result in up to 120 meteors per hour being visible. Additionally, the article mentions a planetary alignment where four planets and the moon will align almost perfectly above the southern horizon. These events are of interest to stargazers and astronomers alike, offering a spectacular display in the night sky.
Paper tigers
The article is a travelogue that traces the locations featured in Anthony Burgess' first novel, 'Time for a Tiger', set in the Malaysian town of Kuala Kangsar. The author visits the Malay College where Burgess taught English, the Pavilion of the Iskandar Polo Club, and the Idris Club, which Burgess fictionalized as the Iblis Club. The writer also explores the town's colonial architecture, including a golden-domed clock tower and a post office, and notes the multi-ethnic character of the town, with Chinese shophouses and a variety of local cuisine. The article reflects on the changes since Burgess' time, particularly the increased prominence of Islam, as seen at the Ubudiah mosque. The author's journey is interspersed with references to characters and scenes from Burgess' novel, creating a blend of literary pilgrimage and travel narrative.
Spiritual dawn: Sunrise on Adam's Peak
The article describes the spiritual journey and experience of climbing Adam's Peak in Sri Lanka, a sacred mountain for Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. Standing at 2,243 meters, the mountain is a popular pilgrimage site, especially from December to May, when thousands of pilgrims ascend to see the sacred footprint at the summit. The author details the challenging hike, which starts from Dalhousie and can take between two and a half to four hours, aiming to reach the top by dawn. The journey is not just a physical challenge but also a spiritual experience, with pilgrims engaging in rituals and prayers. The article also provides practical information on how to get to Adam's Peak, suggesting the scenic train route across the Hill Country for its beauty.
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