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Travel
Glam Halal | september-0ctober . 2020
A stay in paradise The best chill-out spot with family with Muslim-friendly servings
BOATING ... Tourists are able to witness the beautiful view of the sea overlooking the Taaras ' Asian Lady .
THE FOUNDER ... Tan Sri Vincent Tan taking a dive in Redang Island .
BY CAMILIA REZALI
Malaysia is recognised as one of the most Muslim-friendly countries as most of its tourist destinations cater to the need of the Muslim travellers – taking into account some of the Muslim ’ s faith-based needs through its facilities and services , up onto the plates being served ( the food ). And of course , the best experience is by exploring Malaysia ’ s exquisite islands .
One such destination is the 2020 Travellers ’ Choice award-winning , Taaras Beach & Spa Resort , located on the beautiful island of Redang – an island that lies about 45km northnortheast of Kuala Terengganu , or 22km off Tanjung Merang .
It is a resort owned by Berjaya Hotels and Resorts . ‘ Taaras ’ comes from the word ‘ TAARA ’ that originates from the 4,000-yearold Sanskrit language – meaning ‘ Goddess of the sea ’, ‘ The star ’ and ‘ The apple of my eye ’.
Let ’ s say , if you are looking forward to discover nature and water sport activities with your beloved family or friends , with a place that offers some of the best foodie delights and even better , if you wish to take part in Redang ’ s most treasured sea turtle conservation activities , THIS is your go-to destination .
Muslim-friendly servings
Just imagine . A morning buffet served with various food options from hot pan-cooked omelette , well-fried potatoes chopped in wedges , baked beans and sausages , bowl filled with crispy cereal and milk , warm pancakes and patisseries , roti canai cooked to golden brown dipped in curry sauce , and not forgetting Malaysia ’ s classic nasi lemak . Isn ’ t that wonderful ? There is no better way to kickstart a morning than sipping hot latte off a small white cup paired with a good breakfast by the bay window of Taaras ’ Asean All Day Dining overlooking the beautiful sights of Taaras Resort .
After a short walk along with its crystalclear water and white powdery sand , another recommended dining spot will be the Bayu Bar . Bayu Bar happens to be the largest floating pontoon on the island .
This is where most light beach snacks and refreshers are served . Lunch meals are also available here . Its range of pastas , pizzas , sandwiches are just to die for .
Another restaurant that tourists must opt for is Taaras ’ Beach Brasserie where the delights are served up by the seafood and western grill , with the option of dining either alfresco to take in the ocean views or by the open-concept kitchen , watching the chef work culinary magic .
Out of its menu , the butter chicken or murg makhani originating from the Indian subcontinent is said to be one of the top selections . The dish can either be paired with rice or naan bread .
One thing that Muslim travellers may not have to worry about is the foods served at Taaras are pork-free . Apart from having menu choices varying from local foods , western foods , Thai foods , and Indian foods , they also offer fresh fish dishes from catch of the day .
Care for the environment
Being attentive towards the environment and the welfare of earth ’ s living creatures ( His creations ) is already a part of our responsibility . With regards to this , Taaras Resort has carried out a few initiatives to ensure the island is well-preserved .
In 2018 , the Taaras Beach & Spa Resort launched the Sea Turtle Research Unit ( SEATRU Turtle Lab ). The main aim is to educate guests on the plight of the sea turtle .
The lab is managed by The Taaras ’ very own marine biologist who works with a team of
SEATRU Scientists and trained research assistants from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu ( UMT ).
During the hatching season , guests can experience hatchlings being released into the sea .
In the same year , the resort started the Redang Island Conservation Day ( RICD ) where the divers performed underwater clean-ups looking out for any ghost nets and Crown of Thorns ( COT ) which are a constant threat to our marine life .
The non-divers , on the other hand , may take part by cleaning up the beach as much as they can . Because the program was a success , RICD was held again in 2019 . Tourists or volunteers are more than welcome .
Finest getaway
Rest assured , a stay at The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort will undoubtedly be the best family getaway . The best for children as it is the only resort on the island with the biggest in-house kid ’ s club .
And the best for experiencing nature activities such as going on sunset walks , nature walk to eagle rock , ATV trails , and also going for sea kayaking , island hopping , snorkelling and diving – if you are lucky enough , you might just find yourself seeing eye to eye with the sea turtle .
Owning the best moments with family or friends , while enjoying delectable treats by the beach and experiencing the release of hatchlings to the sea - It ’ s almost like a stay in paradise .
One fastest way to the resort is by its ATR 42-500 , where tourists can opt for a direct flight from Subang Airports straight to Taraas resort in just an hour . The direct flight is operated by Berjaya Air , allowing access to Sky Lounge , 15kg check-in luggage allowance per person , excess luggage storage facilities , express boarding and refreshments on board .