Mangrove tour

This popular cruise takes you into the mangrove swam ps on the Marang River that runs through the resort. It's a great reconnaissance trip for those who have never been on one of these safaries and a superb introduction to the mangrove fauna and flora. Ali, the local guide knows all the ins and outs. Nothing escapes him- small clawed oriental otter here, a monitor lizard there. He even has white-bellied sea eagles eating out of his hand! Well, not literally; but they have become so accustomed to his regular visits and the juicy pieces of chicken ala Marang he brings with him as offering, these majestic hunters toss in a few 'party tricks' for the visitors' benefit.never failing to amaze the gaping-mouthed audience. From the big to the small; Ali goes micro, pointing out the different sub-species of snails living in the mangrove area , which ones are edible and which ones that should be avoided at all cost. And snakes! All kinds- mangrove snakes, blind snakes, kraits..beautiful creatures.

Then you get to visit the upriver kampung(village) where life is pretty much what it was generations ago. But times are changing: enjoy pristine Marang before the bull dozers move in!

A point to note: the number of guests scrambling for the tour means that you may have to book your place way in advance. It's a great cruise and not one to be missed. This is a half day tour and is best taken in the morning when it's still cool.

Pulau Kapas snorkelling trip

Another great trip for the active. This 20minute boat ride takes you to Pulau Kapas(Cotton Island), the island facing Marang. Pulau Kapas is a marine park. It offers fantastic underwater scenery and you don't even have to kit up in scuba gear to enjoy it. A mask, snorkel, fins and lifejacket.slap layers of sunblock and off you go! When exploring the beauty of the coral reef just keep in mind that there are many spiny sea urchins lurking in the crevices and on the sea bed. Their body is covered with thin calciferous spikes which breaks off easily if brushed against. These brittle spikes are extremely painful when embedded in the skin. Not a pleasant experience.

Although I haven't had the opportunity to meet with it, there is a 5-foot long monitor lizard on the island that frequents the picnic area for food. But the guides are very familiar With the fellow, assuring everyone that there is no need to worry about the gentle giant.

The tour includes a picnic lunch and a lot of chat about the island, corals and its fishes. Don't forget to bring along a towel with you, and oh yes...sunblock. For those who burn easily, it's best to wear a t-shirt whilst snorkelling. This is also a halfday event so give yourselves lots of time to enjoy. For tips on snorkelling and park regulations, go to the facts & fiction section.

Shops line the roads from Marang to K.Terengganu, selling lots of local produce like cuttlefish, shrimps and fish prepared in a variety ways and is a favourite with local travellers as gifts to family and friends back home. And of course, there is the famous..made in Terengganu -Keropok Lekor. This local snack is a recipe of fish paste and flour hand rolled into a long cylindrical shape, pinched off at about 6inches long and dipped in hot oil to fry. Chilli sauce is usually provided to spice up the local snack. You could also pick up some woven baskets along the way.