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E-BORNEO.COM'S E-NEWSLETTER (30 JULY 2002)
Content
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1. Borneo Editorial: 'Diving at Sipadan - Is It Safe?'
2. What's New: 'Borneo Specialty Tour Packages' & more
3. Borneo Tours Spotlight: 'Diving Specials'
4. Destination of the Month: 'Survivor Island'
5. Borneo Events for August
6. Regional Hotels Promotions
7. Regional Tour Deals
8. General Travel Tips
9. Interesting Websites
10. Tell Your Friends About Us
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1. BORNEO EDITORIAL: DIVING AT SIPADAN - IS IT SAFE?
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Dear Valued Subscribers,
It is well regarded by most scuba diving enthusiasts that the third quarter
(July-September) of the year is the peak season for diving activities in Borneo. There are
several top hot spots for diving in Borneo, including the most well-known islands near
Tawau/Semporna - Sipadan, Mabul and Kapalai.
Sipadan island is still one of the world's most famous dive destinations. Sipadan is
Malaysia's only oceanic island and was formed by living coral growing on top of an extinct
undersea volcano, an isolated column of rock rising defiantly 600 to 700m from the sea
floor 10km south of the continental shelf, and rich in marine life. it is still one of the
world's most diverse and interesting reefs. Aside from Sipadan, a mere 20min speed boat
ride away, diving is available directly off the smaller islands of Mabul and Kapalai
itself. Both islands should appeal mostly to macro connoisseurs and photographers, as the
marine life is mostly of the smaller variety, yet very diverse. So, between Sipadan with
its big fish action and the great macro diving of Mabul and Kapalai, one can have a great
time.
"BUT is it still safe" after the unfortunate incident of April 2000?
(refer URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/news/smain.shtml
)
Telling you that it is now completely safe is completely being unrealistic. From
experience, no destination or holiday can be 100% safe, whether it is in Borneo or New
York. What we can tell you is that security has really been beefed up in the
Sipadan-Mabul-Kapalai area, and with the Philippines governments‘ successful efforts
in combating and curbing the fundamental group responsible for the 2000 incident, it
certainly looks and feels much safer than before. It can be classified as a fluke
incident, just like the devastating 911 incident. But for the past two years, thousands
from all over the world have had a grand and memorable time at these islands without any
untoward incident. They certainly know that the only way to fight terror is to conquer it
and they don‘t let terror deprived them of their dream holiday.
Check out the link below for a newspaper article related to the situation at Sipadan:
http://www.sabahtourism.com/dema%20boss%20in%20sipadan.htmFor a latest dive article entitled ‘Diverse Dive Spots in
Malaysia‘, which includes Sipadan, visit the webpage at: http://www.e-borneo.com/insideborneo/leisure0209.shtml
Feel free to share your feelings on this editorial, or any other related subject, at newsletter@e-borneo.com.
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2. WHAT'S NEW
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Borneo Specialty Tour Packages
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All New! Added about 50 mini and 5 pre-designed tour packages to Sabah, Sarawak and
Brunei, in addition to the existing adventure packages. Easier to custom your trip to
Borneo using the mini packages as a reference.
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/
European Hotels Online Reservations
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Searching for hotels in Europe? Find the best accommodation in 30 cities throughout
Europe. Working with the world's leading wholesalers, we can offer you outstanding
discounts off regular hotel rates.
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/europe/
World Destination Guide
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Virtually visit over 270 cities. Find where to eat and shop and what to do and see.
Prepare for your upcoming vacations or just dream one! Whether you're visiting the
Caribbean, Asia, or South America, you're sure to find useful travel information in our
Destination Guides! Find Seattle bookstores, Paris department stores, Atlanta local
markets, Rome restaurants, and more in hundreds of cities worldwide.
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tn/destination_guide.shtml
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3. BORNEO TOURS SPOTLIGHT
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5D/4N Sabah Island and Diving Special
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Unique scuba diving and island holidays at three spectacular dive spots near
Tawau/Semporna, Sabah, including the world famous Sipadan, Mabul and Kapalai islands.
Please visit the following link for more special tours' detail/itinerary:
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/eb-sab01.shtml
12D/11N Sabah Wildlife-Nature-Diving Adventure
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In addition to a 3-day island and diving experience at Sipadan-Mabul islands, your
adventure includes a climb up the tallest mountain in South East Asia, Mount Kinabalu (a
World Heritage Site); visiting Poring Hot Spring for a bath at a natural spring where hot
sulfurous water emit from the ground; and observe wildlife at Sandakans Sepilok Orang Utan
Sanctuary, and Sukau Ox-Bow Lake. Please visit the following link for more
details/itinerary:
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/eb-sab02.shtml
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4. DESTINATION OF THE MONTH
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Survivor Island, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
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Pulau Tiga or now more commonly known as "Survivor Island", was where the hit
CBS Reality Show "Survivor I" was conducted and filmed. An opportunity to see
some of the props utilising local materials created for the show, as well as the island's
attractions such as a mud volcano, etc. A must for those seeking an island getaway
holiday, or for the die-hard fans of the Survivor TV series - this was where it all
started!
TOUR URLs:
2D/1N - http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/eb-kk21.shtml
3D/2N - http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/eb-kk22.shtml
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5. BORNEO EVENTS FOR AUGUST
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Sabah's Events
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1 - 31 August 2002
TRADITIONAL FOOD AND DRINK EXHIBITION
The natural environment of Sabah offers an astounding variety of vegetables and other
foods, and visitors will have the opportunity to sample deliciously healthful specialties,
prepared in traditional way in ‘Monsopiad House’.
(Organiser: Monsopiad Cultural Village; E-mail:mcv@tm.net.my
; URL: http://www.monsopiad.org/ )
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1 - 31 August 2002
MALAYSIA MEGA SALE (SABAH)
The 2nd part of the nationwide shopping carnival held in conjunction with the Merdeka
month celebration.
(Organiser: Sabah Tourism Promotion Corporation / Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board / Sri
Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd; Email: info@sabahtourism.com
)
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31 August 2002
NATIONAL DAY
This colourful day starts on the eve of National Day with thousands of people thronged at
the Padang Merdeka in celebration of Independence Day with concerts, cultural shows and
fireworks. It marks the 45th birthday of Malaysia, where the whole city is decorated with
bright lights and lots of fun activities.
(For further info: Sabah Tourism Promotion Corporation; Email: info@sabahtourism.com )
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Sarawak's Events
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3 August 2002
FOOD & FRUITS FESTIVAL (KUCHING) - CLOSING CEREMONY
Being the largest state in Malaysia, Sarawak is rich in natural resources and a wide array
of gastronomic delights. The fiesta-nationwide Malaysian culinary and fruits fare is
delightful for it is the mix of flavours and sensations, reflecting the influences of the
many races and ethnic groups in the country. During this fiesta, plenty of opportunity for
everyone to try out the fabulous range of Asian and international cuisine, as well as
sample a variety of fruits, from tropical to temperate. Kuching City is selected as the
venue for the closing ceremony of this exciting fiesta.
(Organiser: Ministry of Culture, Arts & Tourism Malaysia; URL: http://www.malaysiatourism.com/ )
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4 August 2002
INTERNATIONAL TRIATHLON SARAWAK 2002
To onlookers, it is the toughest test of all-round outdoor sporting gruelling fitness test
similar to the Olympic course triathlon that include a 1.5 kilometer swim in the open sea,
a 40 kilometer bike ride and a 10 kilometer run. Challenging enough only the fittest,
triathletes of all ages around the region gather at Holiday Inn Damai Beach Resort near
Kuching for this gruelling but colourful race. The scenic surroundings of Mount Santubong
will give the participants and visitors alike the impression that the seaside attraction
makes the challenging event a worthwhile experience.
(Organiser: Ministry of Social Development and Urbanisation, Sarawak)
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1 - 31 August 2002
KUCHING FESTIVAL 2002
Kuching City or popularly known as Cat City to visitors becomes city of festivities for
the whole month of August as Sarawak's capital city celebrates its elevation to city
status and its citizens' love of festivity. Featuring street parades, food festivals,
handicraft exhibitions and sporting events, there are more than one festivity for
everyone. Even the internationally acclaimed Cat Show and Exhibition is a must for
visitors to come where feline lovers converge with their cherished pets. For shoppers and
bargain hunters, there will be special sales at the locally popular shopping area known as
India Street Mall where there is more than what you have bargained for.
(Organiser: Kuching North City Hall )
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24 - 25 August 2002
ULU BARAM INTERNATIONAL WHITE WATER RAFTING CHALLENGE
The two-day exciting event at Ulu Baram, Miri, is very much looked forward by white water
rafting enthusiasts both locally and from abroad. The centre stage for these water
daredevils is the Baram River - Sarawak's second longest river and home to many of its
interesting ethnic groups. The challenge is for the intrepid rafters to be at their best
as they paddle downstream, negotiating rocks and rapids on the way. On the lighter side,
the competitors can stay at the longhouse of the local people and sample the food and
famed hospitality.
(Organiser: Ministry of Social Development and Urbanisation, Sarawak)
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Labuan's Events
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8 August 2002
TRADITIONAL MUSIC & UNITY CHOIR CONTEST
A patriotic song contest presented in choir and traditional music instruments. The
competition which will be held at Main Stage, Financial Park, aims at enhancing patriotic
sentiments to bring about greater national unity.
(Co-Organiser: Jabatan Perpaduan Negara, Gab. RT Labuan & Perbadanan Labuan)
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16 - 18 August 2002
TRADITIONAL SONGS & DANCES FESTIVAL
Labuan comes alive in three days of traditional songs and dances presentation at the
Convention Hall, Financial Park Complex. Experience the sights and sounds of Labuan rich
cultural heritage. A rare opportunity to enjoy Brunei and Kadayan traditional singing and
their graceful dances.
(Co-Organiser : MAKSAK Labuan & Perbadanan Labuan)
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30 August 2002
NATIONAL DAY EVE CELEBRATION
At 12 midnight, Labuan heralds in the 45th year of Malaysia independence. The celebration
at Labuan Square, begins in the evening with stage shows and performances by local
entertainers and singers.
(Organiser : Perbadanan Labuan)
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6. REGIONAL HOTELS PROMOTIONS
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Pan Pacific Resort, Pangkor, Malaysia
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Offer valid now until Oct. 31, 2002
Free nights !
Stay 4 nights, pay 2 nights.
Stay 6 nights, pay 3 nights.
Stay 12 nights, pay 6 nights.
On room basis only (excluding breakfast); does not include extra bed.
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/ph/panpac_pangkor_island.shtml
Pansea Phou Vao Hotel, Luang Prabang, Laos
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Special Offer!!
Valid now until Oct. 31, 2002.
10%-30% off depending on room type and month.
From US$109 onwards.
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/ph/pansea_phou_vao_hotel_laos.shtml
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7. REGIONAL TOUR DEALS
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3-Day Exploring Langkawi, Malaysia
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Based on Holiday Villa Langkawi
(from USD 110 only)
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/atm/rt01.shtml
4-Day Tropical Island Cruise, Phuket, Thailand
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On Board the Suwan Macha
(from USD 403 only)
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/atm/rt02.shtml
4-day Melbourne City Stopover, Australia
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Based on Batman's Hill Hotel
(from USD 137 only)
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/atm/rt03.shtml
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8. GENERAL TRAVEL TIPS
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Travel First Aid Kit Checklist: You don't want to get caught on the road (or on a plane,
train or bus) without the right equipment in the case of an emergency, no matter how
small. Why not take along a travel first aid kit as a precaution? We recommend packing the
following items in an old lunchbox.
MUST HAVE: Adult aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen, Baby aspirin, acetaminophen or
substitute Dramamine, Anti-bacterial gel for handwashing without water, Antiseptic
ointment, Insect repellent, Ipecac, Sunscreen, Ointment for insect bites and sunburn,
Adhesive bandages in various sizes, adhesive tape and gauze pads, Premoistened towelettes
(make your own by putting paper towels in a weak solution of mild dish soap and water),
Tissues, Antihistamine or allergy medication, Anti-diarrheal, Antacid, Cough medicine
and/or throat lozenges, Petroleum jelly, Oral and rectal (for baby) thermometers, Tweezers
and needle (for removing splinters), Fingernail scissors, Cotton balls and/or swabs,
Antiseptic soap, Moleskin in case of blisters, First aid book, Lotion for diaper rash,
Teething medicine, Nasal aspirator for baby, etc.
<<< Courtesy of TravelNow : http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tn/
>>>
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9. INTERESTING WEBSITES
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This month's featured theme is on wildlife and nature related especially to Borneo:
SOS Rhino
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SOS Rhino is a non-profit foundation that provides funds and technical assistance for
in-situ and ex-situ research, education, public awareness programs and events, and
endeavors directed to secure the survival of the rhinoceros. It is dedicated to protecting
rhinos and their habitat. The Bornean sub-species of the Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus
sumatrensis harrissoni) is one of the most endangered rhinos - mainly due to habitat loss
and poaching.
URL: http://www.sosrhino.org/
ASEAN Review of Biodiversity & Environmental Conservation
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A web-journal dedicated to the study of South East Asian biodiversity, with special
mentions in particular to Borneo's wildlife habitats and natural heritage.
URL: http://www.arbec.com.my/
International Society for Endangered Cats (Canada) Inc
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Comprehensive website for information on all small wild cats. The website covers all wild
cats of the world, including most interestingly, the mysterious Bornean Bay Cat (I have no
idea Borneo has such cat). Charitable organization working on conservation (field)
research & educational materials on these cats.
URL: http://www.wildcatconservation.org
If you have an interesting Borneo website to share with the rest, please email to mailing@e-borneo.com
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10. TELL YOUR FRIENDS!
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Please help us Spread The News about our website. Tell your friends about us at:
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/cgi-bin/tellfriend/tellfriend.cgi
We hope that you have enjoyed this edition of e-borneo.com's e-newsletter and found it to
be both informative and entertaining. Please forward this email to any of your friends or
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URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/mailing.shtml
Have a fruitful and proactive month of August ahead and looking forward to your continuous
strong support this year.
STRIVING TO SERVE YOU BETTER IN 2002
Warmest Regards,
The e-borneo.com e-Team,
E-BORNEO.COM
http://www.e-borneo.com/
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