Like Singapore, Malaysia also has an observation wheel. First opened in Kuala Lumpur in 2007, the Eye on Malaysia reopened in its permanent location in Melaka, at the mouth of the Melaka River, in November 2008. The observation wheel sits on 1.6 hectares (4 acres) of land, which is currently being developed to include a light and sound giant waterscreen showcase, a laser light show that uses a screen made from flowing water, and the Malaysian International Space Adventure (MISA), with interactive education exhibits celebrating Malaysia's first astronaut in space. Both of these projects are expected to open in late 2009.
This guide also includes a few new hotels. The Majestic Malacca is a welcome addition to the Melaka hotel scene, where accommodations tend to be either bland international chain hotels or tiny guesthouses. The Majestic is a luxurious property built within a charming 1920s mansion located along the newly cleaned Melaka River.
Tioman Island, along Malaysia's east coast, has hosted only one international-class resort for ages, but with the opening of JapaMala, visitors now have a choice of accommodations on the idyllic island. JapaMala is a five-star resort that has rustic charm, built into the jungle, with a gorgeous beach. Better still, it's open year-round, as its location is somewhat protected from the monsoon.
