Latest news with #HeritageTrail
The Star
a day ago
- General
- The Star
Malaysia's first Historical Tree Trail to be opened in Sandakan
All 42 historically significant trees along the Sandakan Heritage Trail are each tagged and QR-coded to enhance visitor experience and promote eco-heritage tourism. KOTA KINABALU: Already renowned for its rich history, Sandakan is set to launch Malaysia's first Historical Tree Trail, which will be officially recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records on June 28. Developed in collaboration with the Sabah Forestry Department, the 3km Sandakan Heritage Trail features 42 historically significant trees, each tagged and QR-coded to enhance visitor experience and promote eco-heritage tourism. The achievement was revealed during a courtesy call by Lai King Hang, the founder and chairman of the Sandakan Heritage Trail, to the Sabah Forestry Department's chief conservator of forests, Datuk Frederick Kugan. "This is an excellent initiative that reflects innovation in both conservation and heritage tourism," said Kugan, adding that the trail represents a new benchmark in eco-education and community involvement. The launch event, which is expected to draw over 200 participants from all walks of life, will begin at Masjid Jamik and make a key stop at Agnes Keith's House, where the Malaysia Book of Records certificate will be officially presented. The trail will be officiated by the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) president, Walter Kenson. Organised by the Sandakan Heritage Trail Committee and the Sandakan Tourism Association (STAN), with full support from the Sandakan Municipal Council and various voluntary groups, the event represents a significant milestone for Sandakan's growing eco-tourism sector. Lai noted that in addition to the historic trees, the public will also enjoy views of restored colonial buildings such as Agnes Keith's House, as well as places of worship including the 100-year-old Masjid Jamik, the Goddess of Mercy Chinese Temple, St. Michael's and All Angels Church, and the Sam Sing Kung (Three Saints) Temple. The two-hour walk along the Sandakan Heritage Trail will conclude at the Sandakan Heritage Museum and include several other cultural landmarks along the way. Also present at the courtesy call were the department's deputy chief conservator of forests, Dr Arthur Chung, senior officers, a senior team member of the Sandakan Heritage Trail, as well as representatives from STAN and the Sabah Society Sandakan.
India.com
2 days ago
- India.com
Discover Goa: 5 Scenic Bicycle Routes For A Relaxing Tour
The smallest state of India Goa earns its reputation for its sandy coastlines along with its cultural excitement along with its relaxed atmosphere. Bicycling through Goa enables visitors to experience its charm in a relaxed manner while discovering places that usually escape sightseeing by car or bus. Cycling helps you achieve reduced carbon emissions while allowing you to find hidden places which car and bus passengers typically miss. The following article discusses seven prime routes suitable for an enjoyable slow bicycle tour across Goa. 1. Panaji's Latin Quarters – A Step Back in Time The Portuguese heritage runs through all of Panaji's Latin Quarters which serve as the capital city's historic district. Touring this section on a bicycle is optimal since the highway composed of tiny convoluted paths displays vibrant traditional homes and small cafes together with age-old places of worship. Begin your bicycle ride at the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception then cycle through the ancient Fontainhas quarter of Goa. The destination offers visitors the opportunity to view decorative azulejos and savor delightful local Goan sweets such as bebinca at the local bakeries. 2. Miramar Beach Loop – A Coastal Escape People who seek waterfront charms will particularly enjoy exploring the Miramar Beach loop because of its seafront appeal. The beautiful coastal roadway lies across the southern edge of Panaji while showing breathtaking views of Arabian Sea. Cycling from the INOX multiplex you will encounter the promenade where you can see people picnicking and joggers running while enjoying lush greenery. The beach excursion ends when you reverse direction until you reach Panaji where you should pause at Miramar jetty to take photos while the Mandovi River serves as your picturesque backdrop. 3. Old Goa Heritage Trail – A Journey Through History Julio Baptista constructed Old Goa into a Portuguese capital during the era that now exists as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a collection of ancient churches and cathedrals. Drive a bicycle from the bike rental services in Mapusa or Ponda to explore a heritage route on your own. Tourists should plan to visit two highlights at this destination as they see the Basilica of Bom Jesus where St. Francis Xavier's relics rest in addition to exploring the architectural marvels at Se Cathedral. Cycling from place to place throughout these landmarks grants you extensive time to appreciate Goa's historical background in addition to skipping the crowds that fill tourist buses. 4. Saligao Village Route – Rural Serenity The peaceful rural district of Saligao village provides city escape while being surrounded by paddy fields and coconut groves. Cycling from Calangute leads to Saligao while crossing numerous shaded lanes in the area. The route will guide you past attractive chapels and traditional Goan houses while you meet friendly people doing their regular activities. Take the opportunity to see the Gothic Mae de Deus Church which rests peacefully in its peaceful setting. 5. Arambol to Ashvem Beach – A Bohemian Adventure Experiencing the Arambol to Ashvem Beach pathway stands out as an essential choice for people who prefer blending cultural sites with natural attractions. Start your biking journey from the cliffside vantage of Arambol which attracts hippies with its flying spectacle and sky sports. Drive along the coastal path through fishing communities and salt harvesting zones while passing through casuarina tree forests which line the route. You will find Ashvem Beach to be the main attraction of this route because it remains authentic with palm trees providing shade and beach shacks selling fresh seafood. Tips for Exploring Goa by Bicycle Select an appropriate bike that combines hybrid and mountain features to navigate between urban areas and rural regions. The recommended method to stay hydrated will involve bringing plenty of water regardless of your exploration distance. Cotton clothing pieces crafted with breathable fabric sections will maintain your comfort level during Goa's tropical weather condition. The practice of religious respect in Goa requires visitors to wear modest attire in sacred areas and to acquire approval before photographing residents. The ideal cycling times in Goa appear during early morning hours and late afternoon periods when the midday heat stays away. Conclusion A bicycle in Goa allows travelers to deeply experience both the natural terrain and friendly residents of the place. The biking experience features three distinctive paths to explore which include beach navigation combined with village exploration followed by mountain ascents. Choosing eco-friendly transportation allows you to protect Goa's natural landscape and gain lasting memories of this magical state. Visit Goa through a slow-paced cycle tour by acquiring a map and bicycle rental to discover the state's enchanting secrets.
Daily Express
2 days ago
- General
- Daily Express
Over 200 expected for Sandakan's historic tree trail on June 28
Published on: Friday, June 13, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jun 13, 2025 Text Size: Frederick and Lai with others during the visit. Sandakan is set to initiate Malaysia's first historical tree trail on June 28, with plans to enter the Malaysia Book of Records. The initiative, supported by the Sabah Forestry Department, will be officiated by Sandakan Municipal Council President Walter Kenson and feature 42 tagged trees along the Sandakan Heritage Trail. Advertisement Chief Conservator of Forests Datuk Frederick Kugan was briefed about this during a courtesy visit from Sandakan Heritage Trail Chairman Lai King Hang at his office. Over 200 participants are expected to join the trail from Masjid Jamik to Agnes Keith's House, where the Malaysia Book of Records certificate will be presented. The event is organised by the Sandakan Heritage Trail Committee and Sandakan Tourism Association (Stan), with support from local authorities and voluntary groups. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Yahoo
Quilt Gardens contribute to $15M in local impact
GOSHEN — The Quilt Gardens return this year with several new and returning locations. Planting for the countywide garden tour is underway between now and the end of May, according to Jon Hunsberger, director of the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau. He said two gardens are already finished. 'It's always a milestone for us, because in May, a lot of things start blooming. It's no different for us in Elkhart County,' he told the county council while updating them on the CVB Thursday. 'This is not only a state but also a nationally recognized program. It really does make an impact.' The annual tour along the Heritage Trail, which features 16 quilt gardens and 12 quilt murals, runs until Sept. 15. The new locations are the Farmstead Inn and Conference Center, 370 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana, Weaver Furniture Sales, 7870 W. 075N, Shipshewana, as well as Grandma's Pantry, 201 Keystone Drive, Wakarusa. Wellfield Botanic Garden is able to serve as a location again this year with the completion of its one-year expansion project. Other returning locations are in Elkhart, Goshen, Bristol, Middlebury and Nappanee. Hunsberger said thousands of volunteer hours go into planting the patchwork gardens. Even after the flowers are in the ground, a group goes out weekly to weed and water them. 'We know that our communities really value the Quilt Gardens as a source of community pride,' he said. 'We have over 200 volunteers that plant these gardens. It takes over 2,000 hours not only to get them in the ground but to prepare the soil... Roughly over a million blooms go into the ground.' He said the tour draws around 200,000 people to Elkhart County every year, making an impact of roughly $15 million to the local economy. 'Many of our shops and stores, restaurants, really enjoy seeing buses pull up into their communities,' he said. 'That's a great way for them to see foot traffic and activity in their communities.' Councilman Doug Graham remarked on the national attention that some Elkhart County attractions like the Wellfield get. Hunsberger said the Wellfield is the number-one botanic garden in Indiana and among the top five in the Midwest. 'It's become more than just a local garden,' Graham said. 'It's quite a little gem in our community. They're around and we just need to talk them up.'
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Joplin Heritage Trail expands with two new historical markers
JOPLIN, Mo. — Two new additions are now on the Joplin Heritage Trail, providing more insight into the city's past. A small crowd gathered today on East Persimmon Street, focusing specifically on the site of the Cox family estate. Joplin Celebration Commission members unveiled a marker honoring the history of John C. Cox, who established Joplin's first homestead in 1838. Despite some additions, Cox's original home is still on the property and is still in his family, one of Mr. Cox's descendants currently lives there. 'It's important, I think, for every community to know and preserve its history. And, to do this for John C. Cox and his family was just, wow. Could have knocked us over with a feather. It really, really means a lot,' said Michael Apfel, John C. Cox's great-great grandson. 'Come to the storyboard and learn about him. He was friends with Reverend Joplin, who he named the city for. We're talking about almost 30 years before the city became incorporated. And the things that he did from being the first postmaster, to surveyor, all kinds of jobs he had in the area as Jasper County itself was being developed. And, he put Joplin on the map,' said Patrick Tuttle, Joplin CVB director/ Joplin Celebrations Commission member. The other marker recently added tells the story of 'The Unrest,' which details the tension between mining camps. That makes the 8th and 9th markers on the trail, which are mainly in or near Landreth Park. Funding comes from the Joplin tourism tax through the Visit Joplin budget, then allocated to the Celebration Commission. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
