Johor Bahru

Things to Do in Johor BahruThe Royal Abu Bakar Museum allows visitors a glimpse into the life of Malaysian royalty, and entrance to the 53-hectare grounds is free. The Chinese Heritage Museum shows how various Asian cultures have impacted the city.

You'll also find several notable spiritual sites. We talked about the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple, and we’re letting you know now—you’re in for a treat. It’s the only Hindu holy place in Malaysia constructed entirely out of glass, and the 300,000-piece, multicoloured mosaic covering it is almost blinding in intensity. Photo op, anyone? If you’d rather not risk breaking something, check out Masjid India, a modern mosque with two minarets at the intersection of Jalan Dhoby and Jalan Duke.

Just because you’re travelling with your children doesn’t mean you have to miss out on our Johor Bahru packages. Bring the kiddos to LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, which is loaded with roller coasters, a water park and miniature Lego recreations of local landmarks. There's also Angry Birds Activity Park (yes, we just said that), a 26,000-square-foot indoor park featuring go-karts and trampolines.

Shopping, Dining & NightlifeBargain hunters, take heart. Johor Bahru is stuffed with shopping malls, most of which offer lower prices than nearby Singapore. KSL City in Taman Centuri has over 350 outlets and an eight-screen movie theatre. Technology enthusiasts, head for the Landmark IT Mall near the Southern Integrated Gateway complex (aka CIQ)—just make sure you bring your credit card with you. Those looking for something more traditional while enjoying their Johor Bahru holiday deals should try the JARO Handicrafts Centre, which sells all sorts of handmade goods. If you have picky or artistic friends, this is the perfect place to find them souvenirs.

If your energy is flagging from all that shopping, you’re in luck. The Hainanese kick-started a long-running trend in coffee shops, which are scattered all over the city. So are food carts, and you can find them congregated at Tepian Tebrau, Pusat Penjaja Jalan Perang Taman Pelang (try saying that three times fast) and Medan Selera Meldrum Walk. A stroll down Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, the main thoroughfare of the commercial district, will turn up restaurants specialising in Chinese and Malay cuisine, and even fast food if you can’t bring yourself to sit down.

If you're in the mood for a night out while on your Johor Bahru holiday, Jalan Wong Ah Fook is packed with nightlife opportunities. Feel the need to get down with your bad self? We’ve got your answer. Head to the Zon Ferry Terminal, where you'll find plenty of clubs and bars offering duty-free drinks. Yes, we said duty-free. Have at it, holiday self!