“Middle Island” is the literal meaning of Pulau Tengah.
The nature beauty and its unique history add to the charm of this island.
With approximately 16km from Mersing, this personally owned island is well-known for its white sandy beach and crystal clear water.
Nestling among the coconut trees, the only resort on the island, Batu-batu resort blends into the island perfectly.
With the serenity and tranquillity offered, Pulau Tengah is definitely an ideal tropical getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city lives.
Why stay in Pulau Tengah?
Pulau Tengah was once a popular refugee camp for Vietnamese. Due to the abundance of unique marine life and coral reefs all around the islands, Pulau Tengah and other small islands was nominated as Marine Park in 1985 after the camp was closed.
Western countries had recognized the beauty of Pulau Tengah. In 1997, a famous Swedish reality television programme, Expedition Robinson, shot its scenes in Pulau Tengah. This makes the island well-known even among international tourists.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
[ad_2]
Visitors get to see three different types of turtles living and breeding at the southern shore of Pulau Tengah. Those who visit the island between June and August have higher chances of watching turtles laying their eggs.
The resort on the island is ideal for perfect weekend getaways from Singapore for family vacations. By providing baby and children facilities, the resort aims at lessen the burdens of parents travelling with children. With well-trained and friendly staff, parents can leave their children at the play house and enjoy the life of two.
How to Get to Pulau Tengah
30 minutes boat ride from Mersing jetty will take you to Pulau Tengah. If you book your stay at Batu-batu resort, they will arrange a private speedboat transfer for you.
The resort also has a few scheduled speedboat transfer daily. It takes only 20 minutes to arrive at the island when the weather is good. Besides, you can also charter a boat at higher prices to get to Pulau Tengah.
For road transfers, visitors can either travel by bus or by private car.
There are a few bus companies provide direct coach transfer services from Singapore to Mersing which are One Travel & Tours and WTS Travel Singapore Flyer. The bus schedules and their pick-up point can be checked and booked online.
What to Do in Pulau Tengah
As there are lots of exciting activities offered by the island, you’ll never get bored while staying here. The activities include:
1. Scuba Diving at Pulau Tengah
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Dive season on the island falls from 15th March to 15th November. The dive team is currently running many diving programmes for youth at different ages. Experienced dive instructors will teach and guide them at close hand.
Join a snorkel trip to discover the underwater world at Pulau Tengah. It’s an attracting experience to get up close with the reefs and sea creatures. Diving mask and fins can be rent from the resort.
Kindly speak to the staff to plan a visit to the beautiful neighbouring islands. The resort offers 2 boats for island hopping, one is 24 foot boat and the other is 32 foot boat.
4. Jungle trekking at Tengah Island
There are two treks offered to hikers, one is 3km that trek around the island (1 hour journey) and the other one is 1.5km that trek through the interior of island (30 minutes journey).
5. Canoeing at Tengah Island
Ride on a kayak and enjoy paddling against the current. It can be enjoyed alone or with a group of people. The kayak can be rent from the resort.
Time spent with your loved one is always worthy. Beach volleyball enables you to enjoy quality bonding times with them. Besides sharing the fun of game, the families can enhance their relationship among themselves.
Where to Stay in Pulau Tengah
1. Batu-Batu Resort
Batu Batu Resort is the only resort in Pulau Tengah. Set admist the coconut trees and white sandy beach, it is a family-friendly resort suitable for a fantastic family holiday.
The rustic furnishings offer a nature and warm ambience to guests. All the villas are built by local carpenters.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
With a spacious pavilion overlooking the sea, the on-site restaurant offers a finest dining experience. It has a menu that change daily during lunch and dinner.
Normally, dishes served would be fresh seafood and delightful local dishes. To cater for little ones, children’s menu is available everyday.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Snorkelling, diving, kayaking, swimming and hiking are the activities offered by resort. Take pleasure at their attap-roofed beach bar. It offers fresh juices as well as cocktails and wines. Otherwise, go to the spa. Their therapists will provide different treatments and massages to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.
Pulau Tengah is not always available. There are a few months that are not suitable to travel. When planning a getaway to Pulau Tengah, avoid the annual monsoon season which falls from October to March especially during December to February.
Monsoon season leads to rough sea, high tides and strong winds. Hence, it is dangerous to go for water sports and even some beach activities.
To ensure your safety, travel in between April and September. Thanks to the calm water and sunny days within these months, you can fill your days with different interesting activities and you get to enjoy the island living to the fullest.
Travel Tips to Pulau Tengah
Need not to buy ferry tickets beforehand as resort will arrange boat transfer for you.
Bring your own bite creams and mosquito repellents even though the resort will provide.
Need not to bring the equipment for water sports as the resort will provide.
Seek for map and advice from staff at front desk beforehand if you wish to go for jungle trekking.
7 Best Glamping In Malaysia. Would you like to go camping where you do not have to look for a suitable spot, or to waste your first hour pitching tents and wondering where the bathroom is?
Then, you should try glamping! Short from ‘glam camping’.
You can now experience the essence of camping, but well within your comfort zone.
Some of the world’s most exclusive glamping sites are accessible across Malaysia.
Glamping allows you to experience nature as if you are truly camping, with a touch of luxury and ease.
Experience glamping: your new way of camping.
Gamping that comes with luxury additions to what most people understand camping to be.
And today’s post, I’m going to share with you the 7 famous glamping sites in Malaysia where you can enjoy the comforts of home.
1. Caravan Serai, Pahang (Best Glamping In Malaysia)
Caravan Serai is one of the leading glamping sites in all of Asia. It competes favorably with other top glamping sites in wider Asia and Australia. It is a fantastic location in Pahang Darul Makmur, only a fifteen minutes’ drive from Bentong town.
Also read: 7 Awesome Waterpark To Visit In Johor
It is only 45 minutes by road from Kuala Lumpur. The site, deep inside a natural forest is a favorite among people who like to have a good dose of luxury when they are out of the trodden path and camping somewhere surrounded by nature. Apart from the forest, there are fruit orchards, lovely hills and rivers that flow with the slow and grace pace of the exclusive place.
Here you will receive the authentic Malaysian hospitality at its best in this secluded location where you can have the perfect getaway with family and friends, or a retreat for lovers in need of a great place to have some time alone to bond and relax.
Accommodation
There are two main types of accommodation here:
Deluxe Safari Tent: In this tent, you will find a comfortable Queen sized bed, air-conditioning, basic and functional furniture and standing fans. A bathroom is also attached to your tent.
Caravan Suite: This is a suite you will be hard pressed to believe that it is in a jungle. It comes with a King Size bed and the necessary high quality beddings; it has attached to it a carpeted living room and a modern bathroom with all amenities including hot water heaters. The suite face natural features and the luxury here is unequalled.
What to do
The site has a fully functional restaurant which can sit 130 comfortably. Here you will have delicious Malaysian dishes as well as an international menu.
Nature walks
Team building
Treasure hunting
ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) rides
Karaoke
Volleyball and many other activities.
Caravan Serai, Pahang
Address: Lot 3159 & 3160, 12 ¾ Mile Jalan Tras, 28700 Bentong Town, Pahang, Malaysia.
Contact: +603-7972 3655
2. Canopy Tribes, Johor
Would you like to experience the magical outdoors of Malaysia in a tented camp where you do not have to pitch a tent yourself, or generally have to go through all the rigors of setting up camp and building a fire?
Canopy Tribes is you ideal location for glamping. Here, you will have your own Bell Tent amid natural surroundings. The camp is set just a few minutes’ walk from the famous Kota Tinggi Waterfall.
The tents are pitched in an unspoiled rainforest where you will find rolling hills, rivers, valleys and an amazing collection of birdlife.
Canopy Tribes is a place where the whole family will have a good time. Even a group of friends or colleagues will have a fun and activity filled retreat here.
The campfire is one that you should not miss for any reason; lots of laughter and the telling of interesting stories is the order of the day. The BBQ will provide the best bush dinner you will probably have in your life, even the children are catered for here.
Accommodation
Accommodation at Canopy Tribes is in large Bell Tents which come with proper lighting, BBQ unit just next to the tent, quality bathrooms and toiletries.
What to do
There is plenty to do at Canopy Tribes. Some of the activities here include:
Evening walks to the lake nestled in the forest, just a short walk away.
Visiting the Kota Tinggi Waterfall, just a short walk away too.
There is cycling
Safe kayaking
Firefly cruise
Fishing
Hiking
Nature walks
Bird watching at the Panti Bird Sanctuary
Visiting local orchards and sampling fresh tropical fruits
Visit the Ostrich farm nearby
Visit a crocodile farm with plenty of crocodiles
Canopy Tribes, Johor
Address: 7815, Jln Lombong, Batu 8 (3km before the Kota Tinggi Waterfall), 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia.
Contact: +6018-786 5152 / +6019-733 9866 / +607-244 3788
The air is always cool, fresh and crisp all year round. This is because the resort is set right on Malaysia’s Titiwangsa Mountain Range which is a good 600m above sea level.
The mountain air is purified by the mountain breeze which rustles through the tropical rainforest, unadulterated by man for eons and eons. The area boasts a rich collection of flora and fauna.
Image credits: sailorrest.com
The birdlife here is an ornithologist’s paradise. It is the perfect place to seek refuge from the stressful city life, especially if you are coming from the coastal cities where the sun can be really hot.
The resort is only an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur to the Northeast. You will use the E9 highway out of town, on to the Lebuhraya Kuala Lumpur to Gua Musang/E8 and the on to Route 68 at Kampung Bukit Tinggi. Take the exit to Janda Baik. From there it is just a short drive to the result.
Image credits: sailorrest.com
Accommodation
For glamping purposes, there is a camping site right within the resort where you can have a fabulous time with your friends or family in a unique outdoorsy atmosphere.
You will find quality tents equipped with good firm mattresses together with warm and cozy comforters. In the section you will find clean toilets and hot shower facilities.
For those not inclined to glamping, there are chalets and a bungalow where you can spend the night.
What to do
Trekking to the Waterfall: A fun filled activity that takes about 40 minutes. Enroute, you will have breathtaking views of the mountain ranges. You can also opt to pass through the traditional village of Orang Asli via a longer route for the more ‘outdoor’ people.
The river walk: Take a walk on the river by stepping over the rocks and negotiating the easy rapids. Good for adult and teen exercise.
River bathing: The shallow pools and slow flowing river and gentle rapids make for a great day at the river. An illuminated night bath is something you will remember for a lifetime.
More: Plenty of other fun and games for both adults and kids.
Sailor’s Rest Resort, Janda Baik
Address: Lot 8592, Lorong Dato Panglima, Kg. Sg. Lurau, Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia.
Contact: +6012-360 9227 (Hashim)
4. Japamala Resort, Tioman Island
In Pahang, Malaysia, the state to the east of the peninsula lies the Tioman Island. It is an inhabited island that sits 32km from the coast. The tropical island is 20 km from north to south with an average width of 12 km.
Here, you will find Japamala Resorts, a fine tropical and seaside island resort. Here, you will be free of the hustles of the city. You will find the best glamping accommodation and fun-filled activities to add to the enjoyment of this fine resort.
To get to Tioman Island, you will take a taxi from either Singapore or Johor Bahru and travel northeast to Mersing or from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing to the southeast. From the Mersing coast, you will take a boat ride to Japamala Resorts which are on the west coast of the islands.
Accommodation
Your sleeping and living quarters here will be something out of this world, literally! This is because your chalets will be high above the lush jungle below, perched on trees. Oh, the breeze, the sea views, the birds chirping and the crickets singing all night long! Wonders of nature. This is what awaits you at your choice island glamping resort.
What to do
This is one glamping site where you will never suffer from boredom. There is so much to do. Some of the activities you will find here include:
Japamala Resort, Tioman Island
Address: Japamala Resorts, Kampung Lanting, 86800 Pulau Tioman, Pahang, Malaysia.
Contact: +609-419 7777
5. Tanah Aina Faha in Ulu Dong, Raub, Pahang
Tanah Aina Fahad is a resort deep in the jungle near the famous waterfalls of Lata Jaram. It is a good place to relax and enjoy the lush green forests, waterfalls and the rivers. Nature lovers will find a paradise here as there is so much to see and do.
Just 21/2 hours from Kuala Lumpur by road, you will enjoy the great scenery from the forests and the mountains. Be sure to carry your camera because the picturesque drive to Raub is one you will want to remember for a long time.
The resort is a mixed resort with different sections for different accommodation plans. The glamping section is the best for nature lovers as you will be fully in touch with nature.
What welcomes you here is the gentle roar of the driver rushing downstream and to think that you will have your fabulous tent just close by is quite intriguing.
With water insects hopping about and the numerous birds flying around and chirping happily, your retreat will be complete.
Being high from the sea level, the air is cool and fresh all year round. The treks into the jungle and river hikes will do you a lot of good too.
Accommodation
At Tanah Aina Fahad, the glamping section features luxury tents with basic amenities. They are comfortable and warm at night. Outside, the views of Sungai Dong dominate your skyline. With the river just next to you, the setting could not be better thought out.
What to do
A nature walk is what you will have the moment you step out of the tent. There is a lot to see in terms of the flora and fauna.
Jungle trekking
Camp fires
Leap of faith games
Waterfall visits
Swimming
Picnicking
Live bands
Tanah Aina Fahad in Ulu Dong, Raub, Pahang
Contact (9:00am-6:00pm): +6016-609 0493 (Ms. Juliet) / +6016-215 9252 (Hannah)
6. Walai Penyu Resort, Sabah
For the lovers of ecotourism, you have a place to go glamping now. This is at the Walai Penyu Resort, Sabah. Of prime ecological importance of this island is the hatching of endangered turtle eggs. Thousands of turtles land here to lay their eggs.
It is a spectacle that all nature lovers will cherish for life. The staff at the resort can make arrangements for you to go watch the turtles. You can even help to release the hatchlings to the sea and you will have played your part in making this world a better place.
About 24km from Sandakan Airport is where the resort is. The beaches are pristine; the weather nicely hot apart from the monsoon season when the resort is closed.
The area is just like the famed south pacific islands full of sun, sand and romance. Sip your drinks at the terrace, or feel the soft sand under your toes, you will relax and recharge fully by the time your vacation comes to an end.
Accommodation
The tents at Walai Penyu Resort are clean, well-organized and close to the ocean. The hum of the waves as the tide comes in will calm you as will the breeze from the sea. Your tent will have clean linen at all times, bottled water and basic furniture. The bathrooms are shared and hot showers are available at all time.
What to do
Lots of swimming
Snorkelling
Beach Walks
Beachcombing
Turtle watching
Sunbathing Eco-tours in the hinterlands
7. Tadom Hill Resorts, Selangor
It is hard to believe but it is true that within ten minutes of leaving the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, you will find yourself in a tranquil resort where you will be one with nature.
Tadom Hill Resort in Selangor offers some of the best glamping you can find in Malaysia. The resort is only ¾ of an hour from Kuala Lumpur city.
The resort is set in an idyllic location; forty acres of natural space with forest, lakes, rivers and imposing limestone hills. Nature walks here are nothing you have experienced in the areas near Kuala Lumpur and beyond.
This resort is self-sustaining ecologically. You will find that all the structures are made from bamboo harvested in the resort. Bamboo grows fast and so there is always bamboo to harvest at all times.
Accommodation
Garden Tent Site: Uniquely designed tents to kame an elegant camping
Hammock Spheres: Relax your body on hammocks made from parachute material as cool air wafts in from the sides and starlight shines through the skylight
Lakeside Tent Site: Comfortable tents set high overlooking a tranquil lake.
Bamboo Glamp: This is an ongoing expansion program expected to be complete by the last quarter of 2016. It will include some tastefully designed bamboo chalets for the ultimate glamping experience.
What to do
The Tadom Groove: A man-made recreational area where there are live shows and a fully functioning bistro.
Diving
Swimming
Water and Tarzan swings and many more activities.
Tadom Hill Resorts, Selangor
Address: Bukit Tadom, Kampung Labohan Dagang, 42700 Banting, Selangor, Malaysia.
Contact: +6012-522 5728 / +6012-522 5908 / +6012-522 5883
But.. What If You Don’t Want To Take Public Transport?
Getting to all the glamping sites will need transport, even where the journey will be completed by boat.
To enjoy these trips to the fullest, you will need to find a transport service that will fit into your program and not you fitting yourself to their schedules.
This is the reason why you need to hire a private taxi to Malaysia from Singapore from SGMYTAXI.
7 to 10 seaters MPV vehicle, spacious for a family or a group of friends plus their luggage.
You can stop anywhere you want for refreshments, lunch, photos or just to take in the scenery during trip Bus only stop at scheduled places.
Moreover, if you are going glamping from Singapore, you will not need to leave your car for immigration and customs processing. All these will be done with you seated right in the car.
Drivers are well trained and they are dedicated to keeping their customers satisfied all the time.
Pulau Tinggi offers too much that no one can ever get bored during their stay.
Located 30km off the east coast of Mersing, Pulau Tinggi is a mysterious tropical island perfect for a weekend escape from the busy city.
Surrounded by clear blue water and covered by decent rainforest at the interior, this secluded island is well-known for natural beauty and serenity.
And with warm and high clarity water, it is a heaven to divers and snorkelers to explore the underwater world.
Why Stay in Pulau Tinggi?
Pulau Tinggi has the highest hill among the surrounding islands and “Tinggi” means high in English. It homes to an extinct volcano, Mount Semudu that rises 2000ft or 600m above sea level.
During old times, the Chinese seamen called Pulau Tinggi “The General’s Hat Island” due to the hat shape (cone shape) of Mount Semudu at first glimpse.
Budget travellers who prefer quiet getaway can consider Pulau Tinggi as their next vacation destination. The island only has around 500 villagers spreading over 3 villages. It offers stretches of white sandy beach for you to lay back and enjoy stunning view of dazzling ocean.
Photo credits: mamaamanfiras.blogspot.my
Being a part of Marine Park, Pulau Tinggi homes to abundant of marine life as well as enchanting coral reefs.
Visitors can go for scuba diving and snorkelling to get up close with them. Children can also join snorkelling and feed the fish near the shore.
Take Public Bus & Taxi From Singapore To Tanjung Leman Jetty
From Singapore, board any buses that are heading to Larkin Bus Terminal in Johor. Then, board bus 277 from Larkin Bus Terminal and alight from the bus when it reaches terminal point, Kota Tinggi Bus Terminal.
After that, take a taxi to Tanjung Leman as no bus will bring you there. And if you are at Mersing town, there are local buses taking you to Tanjung Leman.
Boat transfer From Tanjung Leman Jetty To Pulau Tinggi
Pulau Tinggi is accessible from Tanjung Leman Jetty and Mersing jetty. But normally the resort will arrange a 45 minutes speedboat transfer departing from Tanjung Leman Jetty. A Tanjung Leman, pay RM5 per person for a jetty fee. Children below 4 years old are free of charge.
What to Do in Pulau Tinggi
There are many activities you can enjoy on Pulau Tinggi and below are just the highlight activities.
1. Island Hopping at Pulau Tinggi
Get sail and hop on to nearby pristine islands to fill your holiday moments fun. You can even go for snorkelling at the nearby island.
2. Hike to Mount Semundu at Pulau Tinggi
This challenging yet exciting hike takes around 3 hours to the peak of Mount Semundu. As soon as you reach the top, take in the wonderful view of Pulau Tinggi and its surrounding islands. You’ll realise that all the hard work pays off immediately.
3. Snorkelling & Scuba Diving at Pulau Tinggi
Pulau Tinggi is a heaven to snorkelers and divers as there are many ideal diving spots all around the island. It offers clear water that allows them to see the reefs and fishes clearly.
Also read: [ad_2]
4. Jungle Trekking to Waterfall at Pulau Tinggi
Photo credits: mamaamanfiras.blogspot.my
There is a path to waterfall with a beautiful lagoon hidden in the tropical rainforest. Guide from resort will lead you throughout this 45 minutes journey.
5. Visit Turtle Hatchery at Tinggi Island
Turtle Hatchery is a place where turtle eggs are gathered. After they are born, the little turtles are returned back into sea. Visitors can see how turtle eggs are hatched here.
6. Sightseeing Fireflies at Night at Tinggi Island
There is a boat tour to mangrove swamps organised by Tad Marine Resort. In the evening, visitors can enjoy being surrounded by the blinking fireflies while the boatman sails through the forest.
7. Kayaking at Tinggi Island
Rent a kayak from resort and take pleasure in sailing around Pulau Tinggi. It offers unlimited fun and you can enjoy sailing with friends or family.
Where to Stay in Pulau Tinggi
1. TAd Marine Resort
By providing a peaceful and serene environment, Tad Marine Resort is perfect for romantic getaway, corporate retreats and family vacations. Most of the visitors choose to stay here due to their warm hospitality and they offer wide array of exciting activities.
Photo credits: tadmarineresort.com
The resort features 88 comfortable rooms that include deluxe room, standard room, deluxe suite and family suite. In every room, LED TV and tea & coffee making facilities are provided to ensure a pleasant stay. The adjoining restaurant even offers a warm ambience for dining.
Photo credits: tadmarineresort.com
The most popular activities offered by the resort that you shouldn’t miss out are jungle trekking to waterfall, excursion to mangrove swamps and snorkelling trips. Also, immerse yourself in other exciting activities that include island hopping, swimming, kayaking and scuba diving.
To provide utmost comfort, the resort offers Jacuzzi and spa treatments to rejuvenate your body, mind and souls. Also, the resort comes with an outdoor pool and karaoke room for relaxation.
Address: Kampung Pasir Panjang, Pulau Tinggi, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Tel: +6012 – 908 9929
2. Shaz Resort Pulau Tinggi
Enveloped by decent rainforest and shining ocean, Shaz Resort boasts a private beach with fine white sands. It offers unlimited privacy and serenity where you can totally get indulged in this wonderful world.
Every morning, enjoy open your eyes to the beautiful nature as all the rooms come with either a sea view or garden view.
There are standard queen rooms, standard twin rooms, superior double rooms, deluxe twin rooms and family rooms that feature air conditioning, television and attached bathroom.
Featuring BBQ facilities, guests can enjoy BBQ dinner with their loved ones at the beach. The on-site restaurant even offers a la carte menu and buffet meals.
In case it’s raining or the weather is unfavourable for outdoor activities, the resort offers indoor games room and karaoke to entertain the guests. Shops are available around for those who wants to buy souvenirs for friends.
Address: Lot 44, Kampung Penaga, Pulau Tinggi, 86800 Kampung Penaga, Malaysia
3. Chalet Tok Mok Pulau Tinggi
Set in an idyllic setting, Chalet Tok Mok is situated in Pulau Tinggi’s main village, Tanjung Balang. Guests who stay here get to experience kampung lifestyle to fullest and therefore, it attracts lots of tourists who wish to experience local living.
For accommodation, the resort offers wooden chalets overlooking the sea. Basic amenities such as soft beds, private toilets and fans are provided. In order to offer a comprehensive local living, they only provide basic facilities but they compensate their lack with warm hospitality.
There is a simple dining hall where guests can enjoy their meals. For business travellers, a big conference room is provided for meeting and other purposes.
The place is cosy and breezy especially at night and the resort recommends guests to go for leisurely stroll along the beach. Besides offering interesting fishing trip, the resort also provides karaoke for entertainment.
To get the best weather, visit Pulau Tinggi in between April to September. Do not visit the island especially from December to February because monsoon winds blows strongly. You can hardly get a boat transfer to the island due to the bad tidal condition.
In June and July you can get sunny days almost everyday. It simply means that you can enjoy any activities throughout the day. It’s also great for scuba diving and snorkelling as the water has a extremely high clarity.
Travel Tips to Pulau Tinggi
Bring insect repellents to protect yourself from bloodsucker insects.
Bring some medicine as there is no clinic and hospital.
This is the reason why you need to hire a 
