IPOH: For some holidaymakers, Ipoh was the obvious choice, being just a short drive from their homes.
As the long weekend coincides with the school holidays, many families are visiting Ipoh for short getaways.
Teacher Nur Syahira Mohd Saupi, 32, said she travelled from Kuantan, Pahang, to her hometown of Kampar, Perak, before making a trip to Ipoh with her husband and five-year-old son.
She said she wanted to “experience Ipoh as a tourist” as the city now has many attractions, cafes and restaurants to explore.
“When you come back after being away, you feel impressed because there are now so many places to visit.
“Ipoh is booming and I feel proud seeing how developed and tourist-friendly it has become,” she said.
Nur Syahira added that she often recommends places in Ipoh to her friends in Kuantan.
Given the city’s rapid development, she hopes Ipoh can preserve its calm and relaxed atmosphere.
“That is why people come here. People like Ipoh because it is peaceful,” she said.
Bank employee Norhafizah Md Yusof, 49, came to Ipoh with her two daughters, aged 11 and 14, for a short break.
She said Ipoh was the nearest holiday destination for her family, who live in Kuala Lumpur.
“This is my third time visiting Ipoh, but it is our first time at Concubine Lane. My daughters found it very interesting,” she said.
Norhafizah said the family plans to spend two nights in the city.
“We may come here more frequently. I do not want my children to feel bored staying at home during the holidays,” she added.
Digital interface designer Jocelyn See, 42, said she wanted her six-year-old daughter to explore a new place.
“This is a place that is within easy reach of Kuala Lumpur,” she said.
One of the places on her itinerary is Tasik Cermin, she added.
However, she pointed out the difficulty of finding enough parking spaces.
“My husband dropped us off first before going to look for a parking spot,” See said.
She also suggested that tourist maps be provided for visitors who want to explore the city on foot.
“Everything is great so far, but perhaps there could be a tourist map showing where people can walk from one place to another,” she said.
