Joanna James
As one of Malaysia's most vibrant state capitals, Johor Bahru has a lot to offer travellers from neighbouring Singapore. Here are 17 compelling reasons why it's worth a visit.
When it comes to enjoying the benefits of Thong Yee Thong Reflexology, there's no better location than JB to experience the magic hands of this massage therapy.
Revered as one of the best bazaars for second-hand goods, find everything from antiques to vintage clothing at this sprawling local thoroughfare where bargains are a fact of life.
With everything priced below 2 ringgit or 70 Singapore cents, the household products, stationery and glassware available at this popular retail chain with a whopping 75 outlets in Malaysia is worth the trip to JB.
Those who love Bak Kut Teh will never think the classic dish is as spectacular once they get a taste of Johor Bahru's Assam curry fish head curry.
The Assam curry fish head scene is totally underrated in JB. There are many places where you can savour.
Often regarded as a dream location for girly girls, the spa, cafe, boutique and beauty salon that is Annie's Culture is another fantastic reason to head to JB this holiday.
With a complete makeover available for an affordable 30 Singapore dollars, Mr David Oh's Kstyle salon lets holidaymakers enjoy a totally new look with the aid of his best stylists.
AOV Paintball is a one-stop epicentre for paintball enthusiasts from Singapore with a 20-acre playing field and state of the art paintball guns as well as monthly events such as the AOV Big Games.
Enjoy the free-swimming facilities on this scenic beachside development where beach volleyball courts and cosy benches are set up to provide the perfect setting for a lazy Sunday.
As a Cantonese buffet of truly mouth-watering proportions, Lok Lok is best sampled at KK Lut Lut, a food van with a difference.
Johor Bahru's excellent cafe scene is another compelling reason to venture down to this region of Malaysia as the treats and coffee concoctions on offer are also much cheaper than Singapore. Visitors based at the Berjaya Waterfront Hotel or at a similar venue's hotel room in Johor Bahru will find that most of the best cafes are within easy reach of their accommodation provider.
Offering some of the best variety of shops, this new mall with its new Marks & Spencer and Swarovski outlets is simply the best.
As one of the more expensive indoor sports in Singapore, a game of laser tag in JB is not only affordable but a total steal.
When it comes to sampling local desserts such as Chendol and Ice Kachang, look no further than Johor Bahru.
Located so close to the Lion City, JB's location is hard to beat when it comes to a holiday hotspot near home.
This family restaurant and bistro is the best place to sample Nasi Lemak Kukus and Hainanese Chicken Rice.
Make use of the exchange rate and buy high-end fashion for less.
Watching movies in bean bags has never been quite this affordable or enjoyable.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
