Holiday - New Straits Times

Sweet surprises in Oman

While soaring peaks and scenic views greet Shuib Taib, he is as enchanted by the architecture influenced by the country’s rich history

It’s so easy to fall in love with Sydney and its surrounding areas. Just a few hours’ drive out of the city, you’ll discover great natural beauty that will capture your heart. Scenic coastal drives, fantastic outdoor activities, lush national parks, stunning waterfalls, secluded beaches, lush vineyards and more await you outside Sydney.

Hong Kong’s best-kept secrets

Cathay Pacific Airways country manager Melody Keung shares the best ways to explore the island

Colonial luxury in heart of Malacca

Luxury boutique hotel The Sterling plays host to a much-needed weekend break for Amanda Suriya Ariffin

Blissful island escapade

With only six villas fashioned after traditional Malay houses, Hanna Hussein settles in for a rustic and tranquil stay at Seri Chenang Resort & Spa Langkawi

Clubbed by sandwich price

Find out which is the most expensive or cheapest city in the world through the Hotels.com Club Sandwich Index

Realm of divine splendour

Monasteries and nunneries set among the mighty Himalayas in India give Hanna Hussein a primer on Buddhism

Just grunt and bear it

Tyler Posey tells us why it’s fun, sexy and yet annoying to be a werewolf

Cinema: An enjoyable ride

IF you have watched Monsters, Inc. (2001), you will remember how doors played an important part of the hugely successful animated film featuring best buddies James P. Sullivan a.k.a. Sulley (John Goodman) and Mike Wazowski (Billy Crystal).

Top Picks: Scenic coastal drives

Some continents celebrate the end of winter. It’s time to enjoy a great drive and a sunny outing at the beach. VirtualTourist suggests these Top 10 Coastal Drives Pacific Coast Highway, Monterey, California, USA

Traveller‘s tale: A cold mountain and warm strangers

LIFE can be complicated sometimes but it gets quite simple under extraordinary circumstances. You realise that life can unexpectedly spring a surprise when you meet a stranger on a snow-capped mountain. Within five minutes, strangers are exchanging terms of endearment.

Cinema: Just super!

WARNER Bros. has redeemed itself with Man Of Steel after a lukewarm rendition of one of the world’s most beloved comic book superheroes in the 2006 film, Superman Returns.

In high spirits

Wind-swept highlands. Snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.

Treasures of Osaka

The ancient and the modern meet in the Japanese city

True pampering for men

WITH its dark furnishing, the masculine smell of post-prandial cigar smoke, and the predominantly male presence, The Smoke House is the Majestic Hotel’s nod to the male population’s need for their own exclusive “cave”. Just perfect if you’re thinking of a place to spend time with dad this coming Father’s Day.