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Updated: The 3D2N Genting giveaway has closed. The winner is comment #172, congrats Penny! I will be sending you an email in a bit.
I had the chance to visit Resorts World Genting – the most popular tourist destination in Malaysia – and it was an eye opening experience as I learned many new things about Genting that I never knew before.
I thoroughly enjoyed the trip because I went with Beatrice and Selene, who are great travelling companions. But most importantly, I felt like I was visiting my second home – Genting would always hold a special place in my heart because my family goes there every year for a getaway.
I remember the first time I was in Genting, and how everything felt so magical; the first time that I fell down because I was too excited at the outdoor theme park; the first time I took the cable car up to the mountain resort; the first ice cream that I ate in the cool weather – all the first time experiences that I had in Genting.
For many people, Genting is about the exciting rides at the magical outdoor theme park; the cold and nice weather; and the gaming and entertainment in the casino. It was the same for me, until I spent a weekend there with the girls. We discovered that Genting has a lot more to offer. So here’s my Guide on Things to do in Genting Highlands.
We are also giving away a 3D2N stay at Maxims Genting, details are at the end of the post. Good luck you guys!
Before you read the rest of my post, here’s a video trailer that Beatrice did for our adventure in Genting.
Genting, here we come!
We were starving after a five hours journey on the luxurious Transtar First Class Coach, and our first stop in Genting was Imperial Rama Restaurant (Level 2 Highlands Hotel, Tel: +603 6101 1118). For those who always go to Genting, I’m sure you are familiar with Imperial Rama Restaurant – one of the fine dining restaurants in Genting that specialises in authentic Thai-Chinese cuisine.
The chef arranged a 8 course meal for us and we had Mushroom with Truffle Oil and Vegtable Salad; Thai Crispy Fish Paste Cracker; Shark’s Fin Bone Soup; Steamed Marble Goby Fish; Wasabi and Salted Egg Yolk Prawns; Abalone with Black Truffle; Green Curry Chicken Served with Fried Rice; and Durian Tempura with Soursop.
Beatrice went crazy when the Mushroom Salad with Truffle Oil arrived (she’s a fan of anything-truffle), while Selene thoroughly enjoyed her Durian Tempura. With yummy food and good company, our Genting adventure was off to a great start!
After a scrumptious lunch, we went on a tour of the Maxims Hotel. Our host showed us all the different rooms in Maxims Genting, and guess what? We went to the Penthouse too!
“Wow! Thank you Genting for letting us stay in the Penthouse!” I said when we entered the apartment, which has five rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, gym, and a huge living room. Unfortunately, that trick didn’t work. But it wasn’t too bad as we got a very nice room for our 3D2N stay.
At the helipad where we got a bird’s eye view of the entire Genting.
The good people at Genting upgraded us to a suite and all we wanted to do was to stay in the hotel and enjoy all the facilities.
We stayed in the room until dinner. Beatrice and I were “working” on our blogs, while Selene was checking orders from her online shop Klarra.
After finishing our social media duties, it took us quite a while to prepare as we were going for a fine dining dinner at The Olive. Here’s a picture of Beatrice and Selene all dressed up! Heh.
The Olive – Genting’s fine dining Western restaurant – is definitely the place to go if you want a romantic dinner with your date. I was really looking forward to it because QiuQiu told me that she had a fantastic dinner there when she visited Genting last year.
On the menu, there’s a good selection of starters, main courses, and some delicious desserts to choose from. Luckily for us, we didn’t have to make the tough decision as our host ordered the signature items. Among the dishes that we tried at The Olive (Lobby Flour, Maxims Genting Tel: +603 6101 1118 Ext 59668), the highlights were the Mushroom Salad with Truffle, Steak, and Rack of Lamb.
When we were at The Olive for dinner, there was a special Whisky tasting event at the restaurant’s lounge. We were lucky to be there at the right time as we got a quick lesson on scotch by the Whisky Sommelier who flew in from Scotland. Genting organises a lot of such events, so there’s always something for you to do when you are up at the mountain resort.
Life is good when you get to see a show after a nice dinner. We had tickets to FREEZE – a magic show on ice at Genting International Showroom. What a spectacular show!
I’ll be honest. Initially I wasn’t keen to go for FREEZE as I thought it was just another boring show. Boy, was I wrong. I had a good time, and it was really awe-inspiring to see talented performers working hard for their trade.
Genting has always been known as a stage that hosts world-class shows and international artistes all year round. So make sure you catch one of the shows when you are there!
Even though I was really tired, I couldn’t sleep because I was thinking about having breakfast at Coffee Terrace the next morning.
Coffee Terrace (Lobby Flour Maxims Genting Tel: +603 6101 1118 Ext. 58267) is my favourite breakfast spot in Genting. Their breakfast buffet is really awesome, and it’s only RM 36++! All you can eat for only less than SGD$20? Oh my god, how can anyone miss this?
During lunch and dinner dinner, they have six different concept kitchen serving Local, Baba Nyonya, Chinese, Western, Japanese, and Western Cuisines.
We were up early for the buffet breakfast not because I am a glutton, but because we were heading to Awana Genting for an adventure.
Located at mid-hill, Awana Genting is a premier 4-star golf resort surrounded by greenery. However, we were not there to play golf; our host from Genting had arranged for us to go hiking in the mountains. Yes, you read that right – hiking. Like most of you, I was surprised to know that you can actually go hiking at Genting.
While on the way to the start of the hiking trail, we passed by a long house and we were told that a lot of companies organise their retreats here.
There are lots of activities that are great for team building. So if your company is looking for a place to go for a retreat, do consider Awana Genting.
Halfway through the 1.8km hiking-trail, the girls were so terrified by the leeches that we had to turn back. It was really amusing because they were screaming non-stop while asking me to remove the leeches from their shoes.
After going back to Awana hotel, then I realised that there were two nasty leeches hiding inside my boots for a good twenty minutes. Ouch!
While the girls didn’t really enjoy it, I thought it was quite an experience. I mean, it’s not everyday that you get to go on a hike in Genting. As long as you are wearing the right gear, the hike should be a piece of cake.
Note: There is a shutter bus at half an hour interval from Genting to Awana (the journey is 20 minutes). Alternatively, you can get a cab for around RM20-30. For more information, do approach your hotel’s reception.
After the hike, we proceeded to Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm (No.1, Lot 3707, Jalan Jati 2, Bandar Gohtong Jaya, Tel: 603-6100 1121).
In Singapore, we only get to buy strawberries from the supermarket. But at Genting Strawberry Farm, you get to pick fresh strawberries!
And we also had strawberry juice, mushroom tempura, strawberry ice cream, and fried chicken coated with strawberry sauce.
We headed back to our hotel to change, before going for a therapeutic massage at M Spa & Fitness (Lobby Floor, Maxims Genting Hotel, Tel :603 – 6105 2692).
I did a 90-minute Balinese massage and I felt so good after that. It probably explains why I ate so much during the dinner at Genting Palace.
During this trip, we ate our way around Genting, and my favourite meal was at Genting Palace. From the outside, Genting Palace (2nd Floor, Maxims Genting Hotel Tel: +603 6101 1118) doesn’t look like much. Before the meal, I was even telling Beatrice that we shouldn’t expect too much. I had to take back my words after having a fabulous dinner.
We had a variation of starters; a bowl of Double-boiled Chicken & Ginseng Soup; Crispy Scallop & Banana with Peak Nest; Braised Spare Ribs with Red Vinasse Sauce; Stewed Fresh Water Prawn with Glass Noodle; Steamed Cod Fish Fillet; and Durian Mochi.
Everything was good, but the best dish was the Steamed Cod Fish Fillet. It was easily one of the best Cod I’ve ever had.
Besides the signature Cantonese dishes, Genting Palace also serves a good selection of vegetarian dishes, and they are popular for their dim sum offerings. If you are in Genting, you must go to Genting Palace and say hi to the chef for me.
By the time we got to First World after dinner, most of the shops were closed, so we didn’t get to shop around. You guys should definitely go shopping when you are at First World! Like they say, shopping is cheaper than a psychologist. Since you are already on a holiday, I reckon some retail therapy won’t hurt.
Before the trip, the girls were telling me that they wanted to catch a movie at the First World Theatre; we had a tight schedule so we also didn’t manage to watch a movie.
Anyway, we went to The Patio Bar & Lounge at First World for drinks. It had a terrific atmosphere with the live band belting out pop favourites. We had a CRAZY NIGHT there. It was so, so fun! What happens in Genting stays in Genting.
Sadly, our adventure was coming to an end. But it wasn’t that bad as we had a good breakfast at The Bakery (Lobby level Maxims Genting) before leaving.
We had the pleasure of meeting the executive pastry chef of Resorts World Genting. It was fascinating to hear about his experience of working in Genting, and how his team actually works round the clock to ensure that all the guests get to eat freshly baked bread, pastries and cakes.
After tasting some of the signature bread, we had a table full of desserts. Cakes for breakfast, what’s there not to like?
That’s all for now folks! Hopefully I can do a more detailed guide on restaurants in Resorts World Genting, and the rides in the theme park during my next visit.
Do visit Resorts World Genting’s website for more information, and feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions. See you in Genting!
How to enter ladyironchef’s Genting 3D2N Stay Giveaway
1. 3D2N stay at Maxims Hotel Premier room (includes breakfast buffet).
2. Winner gets to bring along +1 to enjoy the trip.
3. Enter the giveaway by leaving a comment below: Why do you like Genting?
4. A random generator will be used, everyone has an equal chance of winning.
5. Giveaway ends on 24th Apr 2012 Thursday 2359. Winner will be notified by email.
6. Note that comments are moderated, they will only appear after I approve it. Please do not submit more than once.
7. The validity for the prize is from 1st May – 31st July.
Beatrice is also doing this Genting 3D2N stay giveaway, you can have another chance of winning by leaving a comment on her blog.
I have not been to Genting but the pictures you took makes it seems like its a place with endless food, entertainment & shopping!!!
Totally an ideal place for a short getaway to relax from the busyness of life! would really love to visit them during my short term break in june before my exams
I love genting because its firstly so close by so its an ideal location for a quick weekend getaway and secondly there’s so many things to do there! the theme parks, cheap movies, food… the last time i’ve been to genting was on a school trip with my secondary school friends and it was the one and only overseas trip with my friends i’ve ever had! this trip would be amazing if i win because i get to revisit all the places again! the strawberry picking looks exceptionally enticing!
I love Genting because of the awesome weather, great food and 24-hr entertainment! Perfect for a quick getaway with loved ones of all ages!
Genting is a place fond of good memories!
The weather, the outdoor theme park, cheap and good food, the company of friends, overall the whole experience in Genting!
I love genting for its weather, food, themepark, casinos and everything else!
Hidden deep in the misty mountains, I often forget where I have come from once I set foot on Genting. The hectic life of Singapore, the humidity that kills, the crazy peak hours…Why not just take a break from the hustle and bustle and pick strawberries all day? At Genting,it is never about packing my itinerary with activities, but enjoying the sights, weather, and fun activities that genting offer. Casino, shopping, FOOD, theme park, Baskin Robins, Famous Amos that is cheaper than Singapore, archery, rock-climbing… You name it, Genting has it. And when the cool 16°C air sweeps in, you can hardly breathe without trembling in anticipation. Bring me back to Genting!
still remember it was the first trip i went together with my husband to celebrate my birthday. genting is a nice place for a short and inexpensive trip to go with nice cooling weather. that time when i went was just nice malaysia national day and the theme park was free admission at night and during mid night they have this spectacular fireworks! it was awesome as compare to the one we see in singapore during national day and new year countdown. really wish to go back there again!
Love the all year round 19 degree cooling temp! And not forgetting the theme park rides! Shopping and eating!
i love genting for its cool weather and being close to home…
I like how Genting has the “family” feel it gives me. I find it a suitable place to chill and have a getaway with your loved ones. Themeparks, strawberry farms, little bit of shopping is just the way to bond with them. My first anniversary with my girlfriend is coming soon (she’s a loyal reader of your blog!), and I would really hope to bring her there to and leave her great memories of this memorable occasion. Hope I can get a chance! Thanks Brad!
I love Genting because it creates wonderful memories that last forever, the relaxing atmosphere there gives an opportunity for me and my loved ones to get away from the fast-paced lifestyles that we are in today!
My best friend has never travel away from Singapore due to his family financial needs and ever since I knew him, he always been wanting to explore other parts of the world. I remember how my parents brought me and siblings to Genting as our first holiday destination and it really brings a lot of memories til now. My best friend had done so much amazing thing for me and I want to give him a beautiful memories the same way my parents had gave me when we went Genting.
Thank you for the opportunity, Brad!
I love Genting, cool all year round!
Love the cooling weather and the variety of food!
Love Genting because of the weather!
I love Genting because it’s convenient to go & the weather & food there is simply splendid-ly AWESOME! A great hang out with you & your friends or even a great place to have quality time with your other half where the weather is cool & makes you feel simply romantic!:)
hi Ladyironchef!
Greetings!
I like Genting because the place brought me lots of childhood memories. I used to frequent there when I was in my primary school days. It is just amazing to see how much Genting Highlands has transformed to its present state. It has been quite some time since I last visited this wonderland. The weather is certainly one of its attractions.
I love Genting for its cool misty air, gravity-defying roller coaster rides and the oh-so-gorgeously red strawberries! <3
I love Genting because of the cool weather and makes me feel comfortable ! & Of course , I love the strawberry farm and their outdoor theme park ! <3 <3 <3 !! ^.^ & of course , I want to travel with my love one( Like finally?! Le sigh ) because of his hectic work loads !
What i love most about Genting is its simple & cosy feel, just going there with simple expectations of cooling weather & a relaxing time without an itinery needed… As well as it being a short getaway from singapore but not too far away to miss it
the weather’s really great :’) *& thanks for your blog! your food posts are really great to help with narrowing the search for good food !
I like the great weather and good attractions offered by Genting.
Good food and its weather
I like Genting for its awesome cold weather and magnificent view! I love landscape. I love nature. Genting Highlands is one of my ideal vacation to bring my mum for a short getaway! To de-stress ourselves! Would love to be there again..
love the weather there! its a very relaxing place to get away from the city! I hope to have the chance to visit it with my boyfriend for a short getaway =)
Genting is the best family resort in Malaysia
First thing first,its the perfect weekend getaway for couples and next is the awesome MAXIMS genting stay! And lastly, i am hoping to go up to genting to celebrate my 5 years anniversary with her. It will be so memorable.
i like the weather!
I like Genting because of its weather,theme park,food and most importantly,the memories that come with it:)
I love the theme park and the amazing weather at Genting. Everything feels so carefree and good when you’re there Kinda transports me back to childhood days.
Comfortable weather, facilities, food, relaxation, enjoyment…A no.1 choice of short vacation destination that can’t be described with a short comment! <3 Genting!
I love Genting, because it is a haven from all the busyness in Singapore
I like genting because of the cooling weather and just 5hrs travel from SG, quality foods at half price if compare to SG!
I like Genting because of its cooling weather!
Breakfast buffets, the dim sum restauratn which serves really gooood dim sum, a particular restaurant’s fried kway tiao which my dad likes a lot and practically any buffets there I want to try them allllll. Fooooood <3
I like Genting because of its natural cold weather. Playing those rides outdoor would NEVER perspire at all!(:
Also, i would like to take this opportunity to go overseas with my boyfriend for the first time to escape from the hectic life in Singapore.
Thanks Brad!
Genting to me is a place that touches all my senses. Like a full body stimulant if you will.
As you first step foot on that glorious mountain, you use your sense of sight to capture the scenic views from the lobby to the room. The flashing lights also catch my eyes.
With the cool breeze brushing against our skin, you’ll never have to feel sticky and musty will doing the things you love, a true blessing for us Singaporeans.
The scream of excitement from the theme park, accompanied by images flashing in my mind, help me reminisce my childhood days with my family.
Of course, with all vacations, our taste and smell will not be left out when there are good food all around the corner. I must say, Ampang Yong Tau Fu is a must stop destination when heading to Genting. A true food-filled trip.
I’m ending my last semester in NUS soon and would love to enjoy a short getaway with my boyfriend before i start working.
I’ve been there twice with my family and loved the crazy corkscrew ride, the cooling weather, cheap food and best of all, being above clouds.
like genting because my bf brought me there for a mini holiday before i started my second job after a long & stressful unhappy time period – we had lots of nice food + went strawberry picking too! would love to go back again & try out the strawberry chicken wings
My memory of Genting is only small toilet, casino ,theme park, natural aircon weather but after reading the things you have done. It makes me want to revisit Genting again!
I love to create more fond memories of Genting!
The cooling weather, delectable food and the casino experience makes it amazing altogether!
I love Genting because of the weather! It’s amazing! And the fun stuff we get to do there is awesome…! It reminds me of the first time I went on a trip on my own.. and my first time into Malaysia!
Genting has awesome weather & great indoor theme park!
the strawberries, and in an outdoor theme park!
Hi! Thanks for having this contest!
I love Genting because it’s a place I grew up in. My grandmother’s place is just 30 minutes drive from this lovely place of fun and adventures! I remembered the fun times playing with the Solero Shots and Cyclone roller coaster.
I like the chilly Genting for its amazingly wide variety of short getaway offerings suitably catered for all ages!
A place that held a strong deep feeling in my heart <3. The place i wanna return:)
Definitely the food and weather there!
A place that I had always wanted to bring my mum for a short getaway. LOVE the awesome weather at about 18degree, the never-ending fun at casino & 500,000 square feet of indoor themepark and a paradise for shopping & food galore just attract me so much. Really hope I stand a chance to bring my mother to Genting
the chilly weather, the casino, the bustling environment!
i like genting cuz of the awesome weather! miss the cable car ride up when i went there with a bunch of good friends last year. great environment+great company=great trip!