Discovery Johor

Discovery Johor

Today, I am going to bring you to Johor, the southern gateway to Malaysia. If you are in Singapore, just hop on a bus, ferry, or train or even a short distance drive to the state of Johor.

Johor is a Malaysian state, located in the southern portion of Peninsular Malaysia. It is one of the most developed states in Malaysia. Johor Bahru (JB) is the state capital city and royal city of Johor.

The capital Johor Bahru (JB), to many Malaysians, is the most expensive place to live after Kuala Lumpur. Thousands of travellers especially Singaporeans travel to Johor daily and the causeway is usually jammed during the weekends and public or school holidays (of either Singapore or Malaysia).

As Johor Bahru (JB) is the fastest developing town in Malaysia, some may find the place 'messy' - the city centre is certainly not reflective of cleanliness you will find elsewhere in Malaysia. Also be extra cautious of touts and snatch thieves when moving around. 

However, shopping in JB, Malaysia is a delight for those who find the Singapore dollar too high, as you pay in Ringgit. Prices at shopping places are reasonable (though in JB, things are slightly more expensive than other parts on Malaysia), but it's still cheap when compared to Singapore. (S$1 is approximately equal to RM2.6 currently). Many Singaporeans even do their routine weekend marketing in JB, or go to Malaysia to enjoy cheaper seafood.

As a visitor, you should venture out of the city to discover what this big state has to offer. The best of Johor is outside the city. Travel to the outskirt, to the fishing villages, fruit farms and islands off the coast of Johor. You will certainly enjoy cheaper food and fruits (Malaysian food).

The state is known for eco-tourism, agro-tourism and sports-tourism. The Endau-Rompin Forest Park is one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests and offers adventurous travellers a fabulous escape from the city. The state has over 30 beautiful tropical islands many untouched, a great place for relaxation.

    As the southern gateway into peninsular Malaysia, you can travel from Johor by air, road or rail to the other states.