As the world reopens for travel, Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort and various stakeholders, hosted the “Balik Tayo Malaysia” Fam Trip. We were fortunate to be part of a group composed of media and travel agents from the Philippines, embarking on an unforgettable journey.
The Journey Begins
Our adventure began in the early hours at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Gathering at 2:30 AM for baggage check-in, we were set to fly with Philippine Airlines to Singapore Changi Airport (SCA). Upon arrival, a bus awaited to take us on a scenic drive to Johor Bahru, crossing the Singapore-Malaysia border.
Johor Bahru is easily accessible from Singapore via two land crossings: the Johor-Singapore Causeway and the Second Link Expressway. Buses and taxis are available for this short journey, typically taking about 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and border crossing times.
Explore Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru, often abbreviated as JB, is a vibrant city at the southern tip of Malaysia, directly opposite Singapore. This bustling metropolis is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks, exciting attractions, and delectable cuisine, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition.
Arrival at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort
Our first destination was LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, our home for the next four days and three nights. Arriving just before noon, we were greeted with welcome drinks and warm smiles from the accommodating LEGOLAND representatives.
LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort
One of the top attractions in Johor Bahru, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, is a dream destination for families and LEGO enthusiasts. The resort features a theme park with thrilling rides, a water park, and SEA LIFE Malaysia, an interactive aquarium. It’s a perfect place for a fun-filled day of adventure and creativity.
LEGOLAND Hotel
Located in the heart of the resort, the LEGOLAND Hotel boasts 263 themed rooms that can accommodate up to five people—two adults and three kids. The rooms transport you to a world of imagination, enhancing the overall LEGOLAND experience. The hotel also features three theme restaurants, perfect for family dining.
LEGOLAND Water Park
The water park offers 20 unique water-based rides and over 70 LEGO models, along with two restaurants. It’s a fantastic place to cool off and have fun.
SEA LIFE Malaysia
SEA LIFE Malaysia, the first interactive LEGO-themed aquarium in Malaysia, provides a fun and educational marine life experience. It features more than 25 display tanks in 11 habitat zones, showcasing over 13,000 sea creatures from 120 species.
For more details check out this link: www.legoland.my
Johor City Tour
After a few days of exploring LEGOLAND, we embarked on the Johor City Tour. Johor Bahru beautifully blends tradition and modernity, offering a diverse array of experiences. From family-friendly attractions and historical landmarks to vibrant shopping districts and culinary delights, JB has something for everyone. Whether crossing the border from Singapore or traveling from other parts of Malaysia, Johor Bahru welcomes you with open arms and promises an unforgettable adventure.
Kompleks Kraf Johor
This one-stop shop for products from Johor is where you can interact with artists and sellers of native products. It’s a cultural hub that showcases the region’s craftsmanship.
For more details check out this link:
https://kraftangan.gov.my/en/craft-complex/johor-craft-complex
Skyscape @ Menara JLand
Perched atop Menara JLand in the heart of Johor Bahru, Skyscape offers a breathtaking panoramic view stretching across the city and beyond. This sky-high attraction is a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a unique perspective of the bustling metropolis.
For more details check out this link:
https://www.menarajland.com.my/skyscape-2/
X Park
X Park is Malaysia’s first theme park dedicated to motorized and non-motorized extreme sports. The park features an assortment of thrilling attractions catering to all visitors’ entertainment needs.
For more details check out this link:
https://www.xparkmalaysia.com
Sultan Ibrahim Stadium
The Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, a football stadium in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia, is named in honor of the state’s current ruler, Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar. This modern facility adds to the city’s vibrant sports culture.
The city tour concluded with a delightful dinner at Kembali Kitchen, hosted by Johor Tourism, wrapping up a day full of exploration and discovery from 9 AM to 9 PM. Johor Bahru, with its blend of tradition and modernity, offers an array of experiences that promise to leave every visitor with cherished memories.
The second leg of our trip involves a 4-5 hour bus ride from Legoland Hotel to Kuala Lumpur, departing right after breakfast.
Our KL Experience began with a glimpse of the City Landscape with the Merdeka, The Exchange & Petronas Twin Towers peeking through the horizon. What a marvelous site.
Experience Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. From its iconic skyscrapers and bustling shopping districts to its rich cultural heritage and mouth watering cuisine, Kuala Lumpur (KL) has something for everyone. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this dynamic city promises an unforgettable experience.
Our First Stop brings us to Ibis KLCC for our late lunch fresh off a 4 hour Bus ride from Legoland.
Ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Located in the heart of Malaysia’s vibrant capital, Ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre offers modern comfort and top-notch facilities at an affordable price. This stylish hotel features contemporary rooms, a rooftop infinity pool with stunning city views, a well-equipped fitness center, and delicious dining options at its on-site restaurant. Ideal for both business and leisure travelers, Ibis KLCC ensures a memorable stay with its exceptional service and prime location.
For more information, visit: https://www.ibisklcc.com/
After our late lunch we went to our Hotel, Hotel Royal Signature to check in and settle in and get ready to experience Kuala Lumpur City Centre up close and personal.
Experience Hotel Royal Signature Kuala Lumpur
My room(caption)
View from my room(caption)
This is the view right outside Hotel Royal Signature(caption)
Nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Hotel Royal Signature offers unparalleled luxury and convenience. Guests enjoy elegantly designed rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a refreshing rooftop pool, and exquisite dining at the on-site restaurant. Perfect for both business and leisure travelers, this premier hotel combines sophisticated ambiance with top-tier amenities. Discover the essence of comfort and style at Hotel Royal Signature Kuala Lumpur. Strategically located and about a 20 minute walk to Petronas Twin Towers.
For more information, visit: https://hotelroyalsignature.com/
We were greeted upon arriving at Hotel Royal Signature with a thirst quenching Welcome Drink and a quick tour of the facilities. We settled in our rooms and were excited to take a refreshing shower to start the KL Adventure.
First night at KL, we headed to the docket for an early Dinner at the Marco Polo Restaurant.
Right after dinner we went straight to HOHO (Hop on Hop Off) Kiosk to wait for our bus to start the City Tour.
Enjoy Kuala Lumpur with HOHO KL
Discover Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant sights effortlessly with HOHO KL, the city’s premier hop-on hop-off bus service. Offering a convenient and flexible way to explore, HOHO KL features 23 stops at major attractions, including the Petronas Twin Towers, Bukit Bintang, and the National Museum. Enjoy panoramic views from the open-top bus while learning about the city’s rich culture through informative audio guides. Ideal for tourists wanting a comprehensive city tour at their own pace.
For more information, visit: https://myhoponhopoff.com/
Visit the Petronas Twin Towers
No trip to Kuala Lumpur is complete without a visit to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Standing at 452 meters, these twin skyscrapers are the tallest twin towers in the world. Visitors can take an elevator to the Skybridge on the 41st floor and the observation deck on the 86th floor for breathtaking views of the city skyline. The towers also house the Suria KLCC shopping mall, an art gallery, and a science discovery center.
We end the night with a leisure stroll from the Petronas Twin Towers to our Hotel. Definitely the steps for this trip are way above my average. In case you’re asking, it took us around 25 minutes to get to our Hotel.
Wander Around Bukit Bintang
Bukit Bintang is KL’s premier shopping and entertainment district. This lively area is home to numerous shopping malls, street markets, and entertainment venues. From high-end brands at Pavilion KL to bargain finds at Sungei Wang Plaza, Bukit Bintang is a shopper’s paradise. The district also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Another long day beckons as we start the day with a guided tour of TRX Shopping Mall.
Discover Luxury at TRX Shopping Mall KL
Experience premier shopping at TRX Shopping Mall, Kuala Lumpur’s latest luxury retail destination. Located in the heart of the city’s financial district, TRX Mall offers an exclusive blend of high-end boutiques, international brands, and gourmet dining options. With its sleek architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a sophisticated shopping experience. Whether you’re in the mood for fashion, fine dining, or simply exploring, TRX Mall caters to all your desires.
For more details, visit TRX Shopping Mall KL.
We ended the guided tour at TRX Shopping Mall with lunch at Madam Kwan’s. This popular Malaysian restaurant is known for its nasi lemak, a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and served with sambal, fried chicken, and other accompaniments. Other must-try dishes include laksa and beef rendang.
Our Guided Tour brings us to Pavilion Mall, which also is the venue for the Malaysia Mega Sale2024 Media Launch.
For more details about Malaysia Mega Sale 2024, check this out: https://juanphilippines.com/launch-of-malaysia-mega-sale-2024-boosting-tourism-and-energizing-the-national-economy/
Experience Luxury at Pavilion KL
Located in the heart of Bukit Bintang, Pavilion KL is Kuala Lumpur’s premier shopping destination, offering an unparalleled retail experience. With over 700 stores, this luxurious mall features a mix of high-end fashion, international brands, and gourmet dining options. Its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, exquisite cuisine, or a place to unwind, Pavilion KL has it all.
For more information, visit Pavilion KL.
As our trip nears its end, our final day begins with a seminar and presentations from various Malaysian stakeholders, followed by a beautiful dance performance from the organizers. The program concludes after lunch, and we embark on another bus ride to Putrajaya.
Enjoy Mitsui Outlet Park
Discover unbeatable deals at Mitsui Outlet Park KL, a premier shopping haven near Kuala Lumpur International Airport. This Japanese-inspired outlet mall offers a wide range of international and local brands at discounted prices, featuring fashion, electronics, sportswear, and more. Enjoy a unique shopping experience with its spacious layout, dining options, and relaxing ambiance. Ideal for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts alike.
For more information, visit Mitsui Outlet Park KL.
Explore the Splendor of Putrajaya
Explore Putrajaya, Malaysia’s administrative capital, known for its stunning architecture, serene parks, and picturesque lakes. This meticulously planned city offers attractions such as the iconic Putra Mosque, the lush Putrajaya Botanical Garden, and the scenic Putrajaya Lake. Ideal for leisurely strolls, cultural exploration, and architectural admiration, Putrajaya is a harmonious blend of nature and urban design.
For more information, visit Putrajaya.
The day ended with Dinner being hosted by Tourism Malaysia at Rebung Chef Ismail 2. This caps off the whole Fam Trip that started in LegoLand, Johor Bahru. It was definitely a trip to remember.
Experience Authentic Malaysian Cuisine at Rebung Chef Ismail 2
Indulge in the rich flavors of Malaysia at Rebung Chef Ismail 2, where culinary tradition meets modern elegance. Co-owned by celebrity chef Ismail Ahmad, this restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring authentic Malay dishes, from sumptuous rendang to delectable kuih. Located in a cozy setting, Rebung provides an exceptional dining experience with its warm ambiance and exquisite cuisine. Perfect for food enthusiasts eager to taste the true essence of Malaysian gastronomy.
For more information, visit Rebung Chef Ismail.
The whole trip was a jam packed 7 days & 6 nights, it was all worth it and we all enjoyed every single minute of it. We met a lot of new friends and we learned a lot about what Malaysia has to offer to our Filipino Travelers. What are you waiting for? plan and book your flights to Malaysia now!
JUAN Philippines Travel Tip: Pack Light and wear comfortable walking shoes
Publisher’s Note: We would like to thank Tourism Malaysia & Legoland and all the stakeholders for making this Fam Trip a huge success. We look forward to another fam trip and discovering other parts of Malaysia.
Article & Photos by Teddy V. Cruz, III
