Category Archives: Off the Beat
To visit the South Pole, head to the “End Of The World” first ( 03 February 2024 )
An adult penguin looking after its chicks at Jougla Point in Antarctica. — Polar Latitudes Just the thought of eventually seeing it sent a tingle down my spine. The point was not lost on me that I was about to […] Continue Reading
Changing dunes: A visit to Saudi Arabia’s top tourist destinations ( 14 December 2023 )
The Elephant’s Rock in Al-ula, Saudi Arabia. — Photos: FLORENCE TEH I would never have imagined a non-Muslim like me getting to visit Medina, the second holiest city for Muslims in Saudi Arabia after Mecca. But just weeks ago, I […] Continue Reading
Seeing ancient treasures of Yogyakarta up close and personal ( 20 May 2023 )
The writer standing among the stupas at Borobudur in Yogyakarta. — Photos: FLORENCE TEH Despite the long-standing temptation, it took me ages to finally visit Yogyakarta, which is a crying shame because this Indonesian city is just a hop, skip […] Continue Reading
Planning a sakura holiday in Japan? It’s all about timing ( 23 April 2023 )
This year, cherry blossom season in Japan started earlier than expected. — Photos: FLORENCE TEH It has become progressively difficult predicting the cherry blossom season in Japan each year. Since it’s regarded peak period, travellers should make their airline and […] Continue Reading
The best way to enjoy Budapest is to take things slow … and go for a soak ( 12 March 2023 )
The Hungary Parliament Building is beautiful, especially at night. — Photos: FLORENCE TEH For those planning a vacation to Europe next month, beyond the Malaysian favourite city of London, they should consider Budapest in Hungary. April is the best time […] Continue Reading
If you’re fond of sand dunes, souks and mountains, head to Morocco ( 04 March 2023 )
Sunset at Djemaa-el-Fna square in Marrakesh. — Five Travel During a dinner dialogue with some diplomats many years ago, I asked these well-travelled people to name their favourite cities and countries. Half of them named Morocco, with Marrakesh as their […] Continue Reading
While on holiday, take the time to visit the dead ( 11 February 2023 )
George Michael is buried next to his mother and sister. — Photos: FLORENCE TEH Wanting to visit a cemetery as a touristic pursuit may seem strange to most people, especially the superstitious Chinese, but I was still keen to check […] Continue Reading
Beautiful Padar Island is a sight for sore eyes ( 28 January 2023 )
The columnist was inspired to visit the island after seeing beautiful pictures of the place on social media. — Photos: FLORENCE TEH It’s easily one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Indonesia and Padar is also arguably the most famous […] Continue Reading
Don’t underestimate the charms of Malaysia’s small towns, like Sitiawan ( 24 December 2022 )
After uploading pictures of his holiday in Sitiawan on social media, the writer received plenty of comments suggesting other places he should visit there. — Photos: FLORENCE TEH Growing up in Penang has obviously familiarised me with the stories of […] Continue Reading
A trip to the island where dragons roam ( 10 December 2022 )
A close up of a Komodo dragon walking along the beach on the Komodo National Park in Indonesia. — FLORENCE TEH Jurassic Park may have been a work of complete fantasy, but the first sight of Komodo National Park islands […] Continue Reading
