31Jul - 02Aug 2015 3 days 2 night in Tioman Island.
The dragon-like appearance of Tioman Island is at the root of a legend surrounding its origin: A dragon princess from China was flying to her prince in Singapore and stopped to rest in these calm, warm waters. Enamoured by the beauty of the area, and the waves lapping at her sides, she discontinued her journey and took the form of an island.
The natural beauty of the island is its biggest attraction. Lush tropical jungle covers about 12,000 hectares of the island and countless mountain streams and waterfalls sustain the many protected species of mammals and birds. The waters around the island are filled with corals of all shapes and colours and home to a vast diversity of sea creatures, including two species of marine turtle. There are a few excellent beaches on Tioman, and these curves of golden sand are usually tucked away at the edges of villages or fronting one of the many resorts.
Tioman has options for every kind of holiday-maker: families with small children, honeymooners, scuba divers, backpackers, adventurers and even those looking for a slice of exclusivity and luxury. Most places to stay are clustered around the villages that are dotted along Tioman’s coastline while there are a few small resorts that are built around private beach coves.
Tioman is the largest in a volcanic group of islands off the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. Getting there is simple as there is both a ferry service from Mersing on the mainland and an airport on the island itself.
Tioman has options for every kind of holiday-maker: families with small children, honeymooners, scuba divers, backpackers, adventurers and even those looking for a slice of exclusivity and luxury.
CONSERVATION FEES
With immediate effect, Johor National Park Corporation will be collecting conservation fees from passengers using Mersing and Tanjung Leman Jetty.
STANDARD CHALET
Each chalet is air-conditioned and fully equipped with modern amenities for a stay of comfort in the tropical paradise.
A resort-style all day dining coffee house with solid wooden interior and intricate carving represents the architecture of a traditional Malay village house. Serves assorted Malaysian and International Cuisines.
DISCOVER TIOMAN
Like a giant sleeping dragon, the dark green ridges of Tioman Island rise up above the waters of the South China Sea. On closer inspection, it becomes clear that the dragon’s dark green scales are in fact giant trees and impenetrable jungle; that the grey claws are giant granite boulders and that the dragon’s horns are twin peaks with smooth, straight cliffs, surrounded with swirls of mist.The dragon-like appearance of Tioman Island is at the root of a legend surrounding its origin: A dragon princess from China was flying to her prince in Singapore and stopped to rest in these calm, warm waters. Enamoured by the beauty of the area, and the waves lapping at her sides, she discontinued her journey and took the form of an island.
The natural beauty of the island is its biggest attraction. Lush tropical jungle covers about 12,000 hectares of the island and countless mountain streams and waterfalls sustain the many protected species of mammals and birds. The waters around the island are filled with corals of all shapes and colours and home to a vast diversity of sea creatures, including two species of marine turtle. There are a few excellent beaches on Tioman, and these curves of golden sand are usually tucked away at the edges of villages or fronting one of the many resorts.
Tioman has options for every kind of holiday-maker: families with small children, honeymooners, scuba divers, backpackers, adventurers and even those looking for a slice of exclusivity and luxury. Most places to stay are clustered around the villages that are dotted along Tioman’s coastline while there are a few small resorts that are built around private beach coves.
Tioman is the largest in a volcanic group of islands off the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. Getting there is simple as there is both a ferry service from Mersing on the mainland and an airport on the island itself.
Tioman has options for every kind of holiday-maker: families with small children, honeymooners, scuba divers, backpackers, adventurers and even those looking for a slice of exclusivity and luxury.
Strategically located in Tioman Island, Berjaya Tioman Resort is easily accessible. The following are approximate timings and options for business and leisure travelers.
FERRY SERVICES TO TIOMAN ISLAND
Ferry services are operating daily, to & fro Tioman Island. Please contact the ferry operator : Bluewater Express at +60 (7) 799 4811 or fax to +60 (7) 799 5696 to enquire on the frequencies, actual ferry timings and the latest updates.CONSERVATION FEES
With immediate effect, Johor National Park Corporation will be collecting conservation fees from passengers using Mersing and Tanjung Leman Jetty.
| Rates | Adult (18 years old and above) | Student (17 years old and below) |
| Malaysian | MYR5.00 | MYR3.00 |
| Non – Malaysian | MYR20.00 | MYR10.00 |
BERJAYA TIOMAN RESORT
http://www.berjayahotel.com/tioman/en/home
An island befitting the stars. Tioman is where you seek relaxation and discover continuous fun. With miles of secluded palm-fringed beaches, clear turquoise waters, abundant marine life, misty mountains and lush greenery, savour each moment as you indulge in one of the world’s most beautiful islands where ‘Bali Hai’ was filmed in the Hollywood classic ‘South Pacific’.
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STANDARD CHALET
Each chalet is air-conditioned and fully equipped with modern amenities for a stay of comfort in the tropical paradise.
SRI NELAYAN
A resort-style all day dining coffee house with solid wooden interior and intricate carving represents the architecture of a traditional Malay village house. Serves assorted Malaysian and International Cuisines.
SNORKELLING
The warm, crystal clear water, the abundance of marine life and the fact that snorkelling trips are included in almost every resort package, means that there is only a very slight chance that you will leave Tioman without doing some snorkelling. 
The purpose of a vacation is to have the time to rest. But many of us, even when we go on vacation, don't know how to rest. We may even come back more tired than before we left.
For more and more photos:
TRAVEL TIPS
The best time to visit
The monsoon season peaks between November and March every year. You can expect more rain and rough seas and consequently frequency of ferry services are reduced during this time. Some resorts are closed for the months of December and January, typically re-opening from Chinese New Year (late January or early February) onwards. Those that remain open often offer reduced rates during this time.
Tioman is very popular with Malaysian and Singaporean holidaymakers and it is highly recommended to book well in advance for weekends and the public and school holidays of Malaysia and Singapore.
Climate
Equatorial with fairly uniform temperatures year-round, ranging from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Humidity is high (85-95%). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm and most rain can be expected between November and February.
Clothing
Very casual. There are no dress restrictions on the islands and light cotton clothing, t-shirts and shorts would be suitable. In some villages and rural areas, modest clothing is more appropriate.
Currency and credit cards
The Malaysian currency unit is Ringgit (RM) and sen, where 100 sen equals one Ringgit. US$ 1 is roughly RM 3.20 (Check www.oanda.com for up to date exchange rates). Foreign currency can be converted at banks and money changers at the airport and in Semporna.
Visitors are not permitted to take more than RM 1000 in Malaysian currency out of the country and no more in foreign currency than was brought in.
There are no banks and only one ATM on the island, in Tekek, but it only accepts Malaysian cards (with the Bankcard logo). Some resorts and dive centres accept VISA and Mastercard but it is best to have enough cash with you to cover your expenses while at the island. The closest ATMs and banks can be found in Mersing, a 10-15 minutewalk from the jetty
Customs
Tioman is a duty-free island, which means that cigarettes and alcohol can be bought at rock-bottom prices and that resorts and restaurants are exempt from the usual 5% government tax.
Please note that there is no duty-free exemption for cigarettes and alcohol carried over the Malaysia-Singapore border into Singapore. When crossing from Malaysia to Singapore, you are required to carry your luggage through the customs checkpoint for inspection
Shopping
Most of the duty-free shops can be found in Tekek and mostly stock alcohol and cigarettes at duty free prices (no perfumes or chocolates). Every village has one or two souvenir and convenience stores and some of the resorts have their own small convenience store stocking T-shirts, sunscreen, batteries and other essentials.
Telephone and Internet
Some resorts have telephone facilities, including facilities for international phone calls. The access code for making international calls from Malaysia is 00. For more information, dial 103.
Mobile phone reception is intermittent on the island, particularly in the southern areas.
Internet access is sparse and expensive (RM 8-10 per hour). Some villages, particularly in the south of the island, have no internet access whatsoever.
Water
Tap water is safe for drinking in Malaysia, provided that it is boiled first. On Tioman, many resorts make use of mountain sources for their water supply and the water is filtered and safe for immediate consumption. There is also ample bottled water for sale and all dive centres provide freshwater bins for the rinse of cameras and equipment.
Electricity
Available 24 hours a day. 220V, 50 cycles using a plug with three rectangular prongs similar to UK plugs. Adaptors for other plugs can be purchased at airports and some stores elsewhere.
Health and medical services
The only vaccination requirements are yellow fever for those from infected areas. While still listed as a malaria-infected country, most literature states that malaria has been widely eradicated from most parts of Malaysia. Discuss your needs with an experienced travel doctor.
Warning: divers should never take Lariam because of common side-effects including nausea and vertigo. Discuss alternatives with your doctor.
Resorts and dive centres have basic first aid services and the closest clinics are in Tekek.
Language
Bahasa Malaysia is the official language but English is widely spoken and understood.
Time
Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.
Driving
Visitors will need an international driving licence. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road and it is advisable to observe the speed limits, which are generally 50km/h in the city or residential areas and 80km/h or 110km/h on the highway and expressway.
There are no roads on the island apart from the short stretch between the airport and the Berjaya resort and the jungle road between Tekek and Juara. There is a secure car park at the jetty in Mersing.
Police stations
There is a police station in Tekek and a small police station in Salang.
Anti-drug law
Visitors to Malaysia are advised that the trafficking of drugs in the country is an offence punishable by the death penalty
Religion and culture
The official religion of Malaysia is Islam but there is freedom of worship. When entering mosques, women are required to cover their hair and no shorts or tank tops are allowed for either men or women
There are no dress restrictions, but it is best to dress modestly when visiting villages or Muslim families. For the beach a normal bathing suit or bikini is perfectly acceptable, but topless sunbathing will not be well received.
Shoes are usually removed before entering homes and also in some shops and restaurants.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but is widely practised. RM2-RM5. Most hotels and restaurants include a 10% service charge in all their bills.
Immigration
Citizens from the following countries are required to have a visa to visit Malaysia : North Korea, Cuba, Vietnam and the People's Republic of China. Nationals other than those stated will receive a visa upon arrival or are allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month. However, it is recommended that visa enquiries are made at the Malaysian embassy or Malaysian consulate closest to you, as regulations are subject to change. Also check http://www.imi.gov.my/for updated information.
Underwater photography
Enquire with the dive centre of your choice about their underwater photography and videography services or camera and casing rental.
Tourist Information Centers
Please contact the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board for tourist information. (http://tourism.gov.my)
The best time to visitThe monsoon season peaks between November and March every year. You can expect more rain and rough seas and consequently frequency of ferry services are reduced during this time. Some resorts are closed for the months of December and January, typically re-opening from Chinese New Year (late January or early February) onwards. Those that remain open often offer reduced rates during this time.
Tioman is very popular with Malaysian and Singaporean holidaymakers and it is highly recommended to book well in advance for weekends and the public and school holidays of Malaysia and Singapore.
Climate
Equatorial with fairly uniform temperatures year-round, ranging from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Humidity is high (85-95%). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm and most rain can be expected between November and February.
Clothing
Very casual. There are no dress restrictions on the islands and light cotton clothing, t-shirts and shorts would be suitable. In some villages and rural areas, modest clothing is more appropriate.
Currency and credit cards
The Malaysian currency unit is Ringgit (RM) and sen, where 100 sen equals one Ringgit. US$ 1 is roughly RM 3.20 (Check www.oanda.com for up to date exchange rates). Foreign currency can be converted at banks and money changers at the airport and in Semporna.
Visitors are not permitted to take more than RM 1000 in Malaysian currency out of the country and no more in foreign currency than was brought in.
There are no banks and only one ATM on the island, in Tekek, but it only accepts Malaysian cards (with the Bankcard logo). Some resorts and dive centres accept VISA and Mastercard but it is best to have enough cash with you to cover your expenses while at the island. The closest ATMs and banks can be found in Mersing, a 10-15 minutewalk from the jetty
Customs
Tioman is a duty-free island, which means that cigarettes and alcohol can be bought at rock-bottom prices and that resorts and restaurants are exempt from the usual 5% government tax.
Please note that there is no duty-free exemption for cigarettes and alcohol carried over the Malaysia-Singapore border into Singapore. When crossing from Malaysia to Singapore, you are required to carry your luggage through the customs checkpoint for inspection
Shopping
Most of the duty-free shops can be found in Tekek and mostly stock alcohol and cigarettes at duty free prices (no perfumes or chocolates). Every village has one or two souvenir and convenience stores and some of the resorts have their own small convenience store stocking T-shirts, sunscreen, batteries and other essentials.
Telephone and Internet
Some resorts have telephone facilities, including facilities for international phone calls. The access code for making international calls from Malaysia is 00. For more information, dial 103.
Mobile phone reception is intermittent on the island, particularly in the southern areas.
Internet access is sparse and expensive (RM 8-10 per hour). Some villages, particularly in the south of the island, have no internet access whatsoever.
Water
Tap water is safe for drinking in Malaysia, provided that it is boiled first. On Tioman, many resorts make use of mountain sources for their water supply and the water is filtered and safe for immediate consumption. There is also ample bottled water for sale and all dive centres provide freshwater bins for the rinse of cameras and equipment.
Electricity
Available 24 hours a day. 220V, 50 cycles using a plug with three rectangular prongs similar to UK plugs. Adaptors for other plugs can be purchased at airports and some stores elsewhere.
Health and medical services
The only vaccination requirements are yellow fever for those from infected areas. While still listed as a malaria-infected country, most literature states that malaria has been widely eradicated from most parts of Malaysia. Discuss your needs with an experienced travel doctor.
Warning: divers should never take Lariam because of common side-effects including nausea and vertigo. Discuss alternatives with your doctor.
Resorts and dive centres have basic first aid services and the closest clinics are in Tekek.
Language
Bahasa Malaysia is the official language but English is widely spoken and understood.
Time
Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.
Driving
Visitors will need an international driving licence. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road and it is advisable to observe the speed limits, which are generally 50km/h in the city or residential areas and 80km/h or 110km/h on the highway and expressway.
There are no roads on the island apart from the short stretch between the airport and the Berjaya resort and the jungle road between Tekek and Juara. There is a secure car park at the jetty in Mersing.
Police stations
There is a police station in Tekek and a small police station in Salang.
Anti-drug law
Visitors to Malaysia are advised that the trafficking of drugs in the country is an offence punishable by the death penalty
Religion and culture
The official religion of Malaysia is Islam but there is freedom of worship. When entering mosques, women are required to cover their hair and no shorts or tank tops are allowed for either men or women
There are no dress restrictions, but it is best to dress modestly when visiting villages or Muslim families. For the beach a normal bathing suit or bikini is perfectly acceptable, but topless sunbathing will not be well received.
Shoes are usually removed before entering homes and also in some shops and restaurants.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but is widely practised. RM2-RM5. Most hotels and restaurants include a 10% service charge in all their bills.
Immigration
Citizens from the following countries are required to have a visa to visit Malaysia : North Korea, Cuba, Vietnam and the People's Republic of China. Nationals other than those stated will receive a visa upon arrival or are allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month. However, it is recommended that visa enquiries are made at the Malaysian embassy or Malaysian consulate closest to you, as regulations are subject to change. Also check http://www.imi.gov.my/for updated information.
Underwater photography
Enquire with the dive centre of your choice about their underwater photography and videography services or camera and casing rental.
Tourist Information Centers
Please contact the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board for tourist information. (http://tourism.gov.my)