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E-BORNEO.COM'S E-NEWSLETTER (29 SEPTEMBER 2002)
Content
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1. Borneo Editorial: 'Best of Borneo Tour'
2. What's New: 'New Travelogues' & more
3. Borneo Tours Spotlight: 'Budget Borneo'
4. Destination of the Month: 'Mulu Caves'
5. Borneo Events for October
6. Regional Hotels Promotion
7. Regional Tours Promotion
8. General Travel Tips
9. FREE eBiz eBook for Travel/Services sites
10. Interesting Websites
11. Tell Your Friends About Us
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1. BORNEO EDITORIAL: Best of Borneo Tour
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Dear Valued Subscribers,
Recently, some of you have inquired about tours that include a visit to all Four Corners
of Borneo. Such tour is very rare since it is complicated to arrange and at most times not
feasible economically and politically. To begin with, the island is made up of three
different countries - the states of Sabah and Sarawak in Malaysia, the Sultanate Kingdom
of Brunei Darussalam, and Kalimantan in Indonesia. Although quite developed within the
Malaysia and Brunei part of Borneo, its landscape consists for the most part of steep
hills, mountains, and dense rain forests. Additionally, the sheer size of Borneo - it
covers an area five times as large as England and Wales - means that connectivity is
complex and travel linkage services (i.e., air, land, etc.) are scarce, especially in the
Kalimantan part. Immigration and the wide currency exchange differences are also a
hindrance.
As it is, tourism in Borneo, usually confined to Sabah and Sarawak, and Brunei to a lesser
extent. Most of the 'Best of Borneo' tours offered include largely the twin states of
Malaysia. But, it is still widely regarded as the best of what Borneo can offer at
present. After all, the eco-treasures in both Sabah and Sarawak are on par if not better
than Kalimantan's, and of course, the tourism facilities in Malaysia are more developed
and sophisticated. Kalimantan is realistically a unique destination that caters for a very
different niche group - the real adventurers. For them, Kalimantan IS Borneo. After all,
it occupied more than half of the island. In hindsight, it will be a boon for tourism in
Borneo if one day soon, a truly 'Best of Borneo' tour package can be organised to cover
all four parts of Borneo.
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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Travel & Related Articles
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New section for Borneo and related travelogues, articles, and destination spotlights.
Previously, such articles were published under our leisure section, but an entire new
section under this theme is long overdue.
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/articles/Adventure & Travel Essentials Shop
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Added more than 30 new items in the store to help you find the travel necessities or
accessories for your holidays.
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/shop/bts.shtml
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3. BORNEO BUDGET TOURS SPOTLIGHT
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'Best of Borneo' in Two Weeks
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This itinerary will take you first to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah (North Borneo) with its
beautiful coral islands and towering 14,000 ft mountain, beckoning you from the clouds.
Here you have a choice of either climbing the mountain or visiting the East Coast of
Borneo and seeing the wildlife there plus the Orang Utan Sanctuary at Sepilok. Then on
into the jungles of Sarawak, travelling from the dry sandy beaches of the South China Sea
at Miri to the mountains and caves of Mulu National Park, amongst unspoilt rainforest deep
in the interior of Borneo. For more information, please visit the link below:
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/eb-bor01.shtml
'Best of Borneo' in Three Weeks
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This tour will take you from the dry sandy beaches of the South China Sea at Miri, into
the interior at Mulu by light aircraft to see the caves and unspoilt primary jungle, and
then across into Sabah (North Borneo) to Kota Kinabalu with its beautiful coral islands
and towering 14,000 ft mountain, beckoning you from the clouds. Then on to Poring Hot
Springs where you can soothe your aching limbs and lastly a flight to Sandakan on the East
Coast of Borneo to see the Orang Utan Sanctuary at Sepilok and cruise down the
Kinabatangan River where there is the greatest concentration of bird and wild life in
Borneo. Please visit the following link for more details/itinerary:
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/eb-bor02.shtml
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4. DESTINATION OF THE MONTH
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Mulu Caves, Sarawak, Borneo
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Mulu Caves is a designated World Heritage Site. It is the ultimate for adventure caving
travellers as it is home to the world’s largest and most fascinating caves. Usually,
the airfare makes up the bulk of such tour package in the past. But now, with the
introduction of a chartered flight, tours to Mulu are getting more affordable. Check out
the various tours available below:
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/eb-ml.shtml
** Special Mulu Promotion Rate **
(till end-October)
5-15% off normal tour rate
Limited Space - Book today
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5. BORNEO EVENTS FOR OCTOBER
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Sabah's Events
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1 - 31 October 2002
ANTIQUES EXHIBITION
An exhibition in conjunction with the Sabah State Museum displays once valued heirloom,
such as ancient gongs and other brass-ware, and Chinese jars, especially cherished by the
peoples of Sabah. There will also be ample black-and-white photographic documentation.
(Organiser: Monsopiad Cultural Village; E-mail: mcv@tm.net.my ; URL: http://www.monsopiad.org/ )
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3 - 6 October 2002
ASIA PACIFIC ECOTOURISM CONFERENCE 2002
This two days conference will cover topics including carrying capacity, protected area
management, zoning, site selection and architecture for minimal negative impacts.
International and national speakers will present case studies relevant to Malaysia.
(Organiser: MATTA Sabah ; E-mail: albert@borneoecotours.com ; URL: www.mattasabah.com/apeco )
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3 - 5 October 2002
JAPAN ECOTOURISM SOCIETY INTERNATIONAL ECOTOURISM CONGRESS
This congress is the society’s main annual activity and will be held for the first
time outside of Japan, thus giving opportunities for their members to network and exchange
ideas with other international Society members. This is also an opportunity for their
members to see and experience for themselves ecotourism destination such as Sabah. The
Congress will see the presence and participation of prominent speakers from the ecotourism
fraternity from all over the world. (For further information - Email: gordon@sabahtourism.com )
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5 & 6 October 2002
16th MT. KINABALU INTERNATIONAL CLIMBATHON
The toughest mountain race in the world! Normally it takes two days to reach Borneo’s
highest peak (4,095.2m), but the Champs of this race takes only three hours plus. Come and
witness the world’s top mountain runners as they take on the challenges of the
punishing steps to the summit of Kinabalu. (Organiser: Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd ;
Email: balwant@sabahtourism.com )
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12 & 13 October 2002
PESTA JAGUNG
Another of Sabah’s many festivals, this one celebrates the Maize industry and finds
its setting at the district of Kota Marudu. Exhibitions, competitions and other fun-filled
activities are organized for visitors so join the festivities and see the many wonders of
Maize.
(Organisers: Kota Marudu District Office / Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd ; For further
info:
E-mail: pt.pd.km@sabah.gov.my or balwant@sabahtourism.com ; URL: www.geocities.com/k3pkmu )
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25 & 26 October 2002
NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCE
Returning for their third performance in Kota Kinabalu, the National Symphony
Orchestra’s recitals sowcase on evening of harmonies collaborating local and western
musical compositions.
(Organiser: Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd ; Email: celeste@sabahtourism.com )
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25 October to 5th November 2002
BORNEO EXTREME ADVENTURE RACE 2002
The Borneo Extreme Adventure Race (BEAR) is an expedition length adventure race taking
place in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. It encompasses well over 700 kilometers of
mountaineering, abseiling, white water rafting, running, canoeing, and mountain biking - a
pure adrenaline adventure.
(For more info - Email: jbjertnes@deependproductions.com
; URL: www.borneoextremeadventure.com
)
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27 October 2002
KIULU 4M CHALLENGE (K4MC)
A traditional extreme sports competition incorporating running (Manangkus), rafting
(Mamangkar), Body rafting with the help of a length of bamboo (Manampatau) and walking
(Mamarampanau) on bamboo stilts.
(Organiser: Kiulu 4M Challenge Organising Committee ; URL: www.k4mc.f2s.com )
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27 October - 3 November 2002
BORNEO SAFARI
Venture deep into Sabah’s heart with powerful 4WDs and track through the world’s
most beautiful jungle terrain. Fit for those who love adventure and challenges that is out
of the ordinary.
(Organiser: Kinabalu Four Wheel Drive Club ; E-mail: tom9m6kl@tm.net.my
)
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Sarawak's Events
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6 - 13 October 2002
SARAWAK SAFARI - The CAN 4WD Ultimate Tour, KUCHING & SRI AMAN
For an unforgettable 8-day jungle outing for 4WD enthusiasts and visitors alike, the event
piled high with the unexpected and anticipation is running even higher as the journey
progress. Jeeps or 4x4 enthusiasts must trek down beaten long abandoned logging roads,
chased rocky trails through rivers and explored forgotten jungle landmarks. This
fun-filled expedition will provide unprecedented opportunities to discover stunning
backcountry of Sarawak while challenging your vehicle and meeting friendly locals.
(Organiser: Ministry of Torism Sarawak; Tel: 6-082-319313; Fax: 6-082-441277)
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Labuan's Events
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4 - 6 October
LABUAN ARTS FESTIVAL
Labuan Arts Festival 2002 to be held at the Labuan International Sea Sports Complex,
showcases the region’s best creative works in visual arts, traditional music and
ethnic dances. Participation is open to every Malaysia from diverse art disciplines and
styles. Various cultural presentations are expected during these three days of art and
cultural rendezvous.
(Organisers: Persatuan Seni Tampak & Perbadanan Labuan ; Tel: 6-087-417862 ; Fax:
6-087-417861)
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6. REGIONAL HOTELS PROMOTION
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The Aryani Resort, Merang, Terengganu, Malaysia
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Free Night Special Offer
Stay more than 10 nights in Superior / Deluxe room receive:
- 1 bonus night free of charge.
- Complimentary floral balth for 2 persons at Heritage Spa.
- Complimentary 1 bouquet of fresh flowers
Stay more than 10 nights in Suite, receive:
- 1 bonus night free of charge.
- Complimentary 1 private candlelight dinner for 2 persons.
- Complimentary 1 session of traditional body massage for 2 persons at Heritage Spa.
Offer valid from Apr. 01, 2002 to Mar. 31, 2003
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/ph/special-merang.shtml
Phi Phi Island Village, Phi Phi Island, Thailand
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Free Night Special Offer
Free nights ! for minimum stay of 5 nights, based on accommodation only.
- Pay 4 nights, get additional 4 nights free.
- Pay 5 nights, get additional 5 nights free.
- Pay 6 nights, get additional 6 nights free.
- Pay 7 nights, get additional 7 nights free.
Offer valid from May 01, 2002 to Oct. 31, 2002 & May 01,2003 - Oct.31,2003
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/ph/special-phi_phi_island.shtml
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7. REGIONAL TOURS PROMOTION
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3-day Kenyir Experience, Malaysia
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Package based on Tasik Kenyir Golf Resort Terengganu, Malaysia
Package inclusion :
* Two-night accommodation in a Deluxe Chalet
* Daily breakfast
* A BBQ Dinner by the swimming pool
* A lake cruise on Tasik Kenyir
(fr. USD 73)
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/atm/rt04.shtml
5-day Perth Farmstay Package, Australia
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Package inclusion :
* Three-night accommodation at Standard class hotel
* One-night accommodation at farm stay property
* Daily breakfast and other meals as per itinerary
* Return airport-hotel transfers by airport shuttle bus
* Return farm stay-Perth transfers
* Half day Feature of Perth tour
(fr. USD 244)
URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/atm/rt05.shtml
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8. TRAVEL TIPS
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Family Hotel Safety Tips
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Here are some safety tips to make you and family feel more secure away from home.
1. When booking your hotel room, make sure that the room comes equipped with deadbolts and
peepholes.
2. Ask for rooms that open into the interior of the hotel, compared to the outside of
hotel. Interior of rooms provides more safety because thieves can not monitor your coming
and goings.
3. Make sure that all windows and doors are securely locked. And if your room has a
balcony, make sure there is a net around it so your kids are unable to slip through.
4. Try to get a hotel that utilizes electronic keys instead of regular keys. Electronic
keys are reprogrammed after each stay of a guest.
5. If your room comes with a safe, lock up your valuables. Don't leave valuables in plane
site; more people have access to your room than you think.
6. Locate the emergency exits in case of a fire.
7. Teach your children how to call the front desk and 911 (or the country's equivalent) in
case of an emergency.
8. Do not mention your room number in public, you never know who is listening.
<< ----------------------------------------------------------
<< Courtesy of PlanetHoliday
<< Asia's premier Hotel Reservation site since 1997,
<< offering discounts of up to 75% off the regular
<< rates at hotels throughout Asia!
<< URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/ph/
<< ----------------------------------------------------------
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9. FREE EBIZ EBOOK FOR TRAVEL OR SERVICE SITE!
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For those in the travel industry or related, or those who are selling services, and want
to expand your business via the Net but don't know how..., Good News! Here's a shortcut to
how to "get started, fast" instead of wasting too much time researching and
reading countless references. We highly recommend it - simply because it'd helped out this
site! Click on the link below to get the FREE Service Sellers Masters Course ebook,
courtesy of our content provider, richADZ:
URL: http://richadz.e-borneo.com/ebook-ssmc.shtml
Not selling services? Click below for other FREE 'how to get started' ebooks:
URL: http://richadz.e-borneo.com/ebook.shtml
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10. INTERESTING WEBSITES
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Mount Kinabalu: A Guide to the Summit Trail
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A personal Sabahan website. Informative guide site to climbing the majestic Mt. Kinabalu.
All you need to know - plants, animals, map, photos, sites, tips, survival guides, etc.
URL: http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/6293/
OleBrunei
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A fascinating Brunei site for football fans. Besides the M-League, there are also updates
on the Brunei Invitational Cup, great comments and forum, as well as the English Premier
League.
URL: http://www.olebrunei.org/
If you have an interesting Borneo website to share with the rest, please email to
mailing@e-borneo.com
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11. 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
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May you have a fruitful and proactive month of October ahead. Looking forward to your
continuous strong support for the remainder of this year.
Warmest Regards,
The e-borneo.com e-Team,
E-BORNEO.COM
http://www.e-borneo.com/
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