#24 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu



District: Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu
Towns in the district: Kuala Terengganu City, Kuala Nerus, Batu Rakit, Seberang Takir and Gong Badak
Last time I was there: 2015

The story:
Interestingly, about 90% of the time I’m in Kuala Terengganu, it’s for work.

The one time I actually went there for a proper family getaway was back in 2011. And in classic fashion... I booked the trip without checking the dates properly -- and we ended up arriving right in the middle of Ramadan. Haha.

So yes, activities were a bit limited… but all things considered, we still had a pretty decent time.

We stayed at the Ri-Yaz Heritage Resort & Spa -- also known as the “Home of the Monsoon Cup,” since this is where the sailing teams usually stay. From the lobby, you get a clear view of Kuala Terengganu town... including its own little version of i-City lighting up the night.




The next day, we made a beeline for the ever-famous Pasar Payang -- and as expected, we didn’t hold back. Kain, keropok... you name it, we borong-ed.



Just nearby was Bazaar Warisan, which at the time was still quite new. Same concept, similar offerings... but oddly quiet. A bit lifeless, to be honest. And on closer look, the building itself didn’t seem to age very well -- workmanship issues were already showing.

I also rented a Proton Exora and we drove around town, doing the usual tourist loop before heading to the stunning Masjid Kristal.

And I have to say... it really is quite a sight.



Next on the list was Taman Tamadun Islam.

We were all set to spend a few hours there -- checking out the miniature mosques, learning a thing or two...

BUT.

Closed.

Yes, closed for the entire month of Ramadan 😅
So there we were... standing outside, ternganga, catching whatever glimpses we could from afar.

After that, we just took it easy -- drove around, and spent some time at Batu Burok beach... “enjoying” the heat, the breeze... and everything in between.



On the third day, we finally made it to a Ramadan bazaar near Batu Burok -- and at last, I got my nasi dagang and keropok lekor for berbuka. Worth the wait.



Looking back, it was actually quite an interesting little getaway.

But yeah...maybe next time, check the dates first before booking the (cheap AirAsia) tickets 😄

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