Out and About in Kota Bharu Kelantan – how does that sound to you?
Malaysia is the one and only among the Asean countries that its resident come from various and different races and religion. Even though they have a lot of things that is not in common, the country that is very much well – known for the legendary Petronas Twin Towers, is still recognized by many to successfully maintain the harmonization alongside the rapid development of technologies that has changed Malaysia bit by bit from these past few years. For information, Malaysia has 14 regional state as per described in its national flag, Jalur Gemilang. Now, each of this country represents a diverse of unique traditions, attire, foods and delicacies, places of attractions and not to forget, their very own dialect!
A little bit about Kelantan…
Kelantan is one of the notorious part in Malaysia. It was once recognized as a rural state in this country but if you pay attention to the development of Kelantan nowadays, there is literally not much differences that can be found when comparing it to another districts in Malaysia. I mean, Kelantan gets jammed too, and cafes and restaurants can be spotted quite easily also! (if you know where to go).
Talking about Kelantan, a lot of its main attraction is actually located at Kota Bharu which is the state capital of this royal region. A lot of tourists when there by taking a plane that landed at the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport at Pengkalan Chepa which would only take approximately 18 minutes of driving to Kota Bharu. Just a quick reminder, be sure to not be too shocked when you see many cars were parked outside the gate and a lot of people staring at planes going in and out from the airport, while eating keropok lekor, (a traditional Malay cracker snack) because that is considered as a normal occasion by the locals here, especially in the late evening.
What else is interesting about Kota Bahru Kelantan?
If I am going to give a speech about Kota Bharu, is its broad selection of classic, one-of-a-kind cuisines, and treats inspired by Thai and Indian style that is hardly can be found at any other places, or if you managed to find them I am wholly guaranteed that the taste would not be the same as if it is were made here, in Kelantan, by the Kelantanese. Wondering why am I so sure?
Well, if you have already visited Kelantan before, you will know that the natives here can literally be called as ‘sweet-toothed’ by most of the outsider that came to spend their holiday here. I mean, almost all of their foods tasted sweet, even their nasi kerabu and roti canai! Yes, I tried to put some sambal (spicy paste made with garlic, chillies, belacan and onion) but to no avail because apparently, they also put in some sugar while making sambal. So, quick tips for travelers out there who think they might not going to survive it here, pack your own foods, or bring some sambal from home and then you are good to go!
Wakaf Che Yeh
To experience shopping an array selection of literally everything with the lowest deals, is without a doubt, most people major goal when they plan their trip to Kota Bharu. Here, the best recommendation would be Wakaf Che Yeh, that opens at 8 p.m daily. This night market is packed with not only tourists but also the locals here. Based on my very own experience, you better sharpen your bargaining skills before coming here and trust me, you will never regret it!
Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah
Next in list would be the huge and colorful Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah. By colorful, I did not only meant that adjective particularly for the building only but also for the people inside. It is truly a profound moment standing inside, surrounded by not only Malay, but also Chinese, Indians, Siamese and Cambodians, communicating with each other using the same Kelantanese dialect, laughing at a joke together and even eating using hands like a pure Malay. Conquered by mostly women, this four – storey structure sell different categories of items on different levels and believe me when I say, due to having to choose from so many choices, not to forget the nice hospitality from the vender there, even a day is not enough for you.
Rantau Panjang
Many may already know that this place is in the border of Thailand so it is not weird to find a lot of products or foods imported from the country that is famous for its elephants to be imported to the local market here. For that purpose, you can always go to Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah but to fulfill your satisfaction, open your Waze or Google Maps and type Pasar Rantau Panjang which is about 32 kilometers from Kota Bharu since it is based on Tumpat, the northernmost constitution in Kelantan. You can find a lot of local and imported fruits, attractive souvenirs, beautiful art crafts or even basic house appliances such as sweeper and garbage plastic. Planning for a wedding? Then do not waste any more of your time at other places, just pick any door gifts from many of shops here.
Conclusion
A vacation with your loved ones to Kota Bharu Kelantan is absolutely going to be so meaningful, especially if you secure your journey with protection from the future’s shortcomimgs. Luckily, we at PolicyStreet are willing to help you take off all the travel worries by offering great packages of travel insurance whenever you are travelling! For more information, visit https://products.policystreet.com/axa/smarttraveller/overview
