Give Dad a break
Bring papa on an escapade this Father’s Day with some of these getaway options.
GETTING gifts for the man of the family can be pretty daunting. Instead of the usual necktie and pen, how about surprising Dad with a weekend getaway this Father’s Day? We track down some cool holiday ideas in Malaysia that can help strengthen that father and child bond.
Get golfing
A professional golfer once said that happiness is a long walk with a putter – and a trip to a golf resort will keep many fathers happy. Spend some quality time with Dad as you complete a course over the weekend.
With many great golf courses spread throughout the country, one can do no wrong when choosing a venue for the sport. Golfing venues in Malaysia can be found in the heart of the city, high in the lush mountains, along pristine beaches, amid majestic rain forests and even on tropical islands.
Some places to consider are Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort in Perak, The Club Saujana Resort in Selangor, Borneo Highlands Resort in Sarawak and Sutera Harbour in Sabah.
Fishing good time
It’s probably one of the most stereotypical depictions of fatherchild bonding. But fishing – despite its Hallmark-like trait – is a good activity to do with Dad, what with the meaningful conversations one could strike to fill the long wait.
Enthusiastic anglers are spoilt for choice when it comes to good fishing destinations in the country. Whether it’s a clear river or a calm pond, the many locations here will keep the traditional pastime alive.
The Shah Alam National Botanical Park in Selangor is a tranquil spot that’s also home to many distinct parks. Then there’s Tasik Bera in Pahang with its big diversity of fish species.
For some sea fishing, consider spots such as Port Dickson in Negri Sembilan as well as Tioman Island and Rompin in Pahang.
Into the wild
Nothing spells adventure like roughing it out in the jungle. It’s a good thing then that Malaysia is blessed with many lush rainforests and national parks.
There are over 30 national parks in the country that are designated as nature conservation areas. More than just jungle trekking, a holiday in the wilderness might also teach Dad and you a thing or two about the importance of biodiversity.
Top of the list is of course Taman Negara in Pahang with its famous canopy walkway. Sabah and Sarawak also host a treasure trove of natural wonders such as the Bako National Park, Mulu Cave National Park and Kinabalu Park.
Go on a food hunt
For the foodie father, there’s plenty of culinary adventures to explore in the country. After all, Malaysia’s reputation as a food paradise is a widely known fact.
Penang is definitely the place to be for all-time hawker favourites such as char kuey teow, wantan mee, curry mee and prawn noodles (better known as Hokkien mee to Penangites). On your journey there, consider stopping in Ipoh for some dim sum, tau fu fah and chicken rice.
Drive to the states in the East Coast where traditional Malay cuisines are aplenty. Kelantan is famous for cuisines such as nasi kerabu, akok and nasi tumpang.
Or you can head to Terengganu for some keropok lekor, nasi dagang and pulut lepa.
Live the island life
Who says only mothers need pampering sessions? Check in to a tropical island for some tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Many of the islands in the country also have nice resorts for some relaxation. After spending a day at the beach, go for a spa session with Dad.
Over in the Peninsula, places such as Rawa Island in Johor, Redang Island in Terengganu and Pangkor Island in Perak offer beautiful beaches and crystal clear oceans.
Meanwhile, Mantanani Island in Sabah is a group of three islands where you can dive, swim and do some ocean kayaking.