NEWS:Terengganu on world tourism map

New Straits Time:31 January 2006.

THE Monsoon Cup 2005 put Terengganu in the world spotlight. But the State has always been known for its clean beaches, islands, food and unique lifestyle. Story by SAGER AHMAD

IF you are in Kuala Terengganu (KT to regulars), it is easy to visit many places of interest from the Grand Continental Hotel, located in Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin in the centre of town.

The hotel itself has pleasant surroundings. Located by a lovely beach, it offers a commanding view of the white sand beach, kampung houses, part of KT town, the Terengganu river mouth and also part of Pulau Duyung, an island in the river mouth famous for its wooden boatbuilding industry.

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• THE WEEK [Edition 3s1]Like a home away from home, you'll find the hotel most hospitable, with cosy ambience and friendly staff ready to cater to your needs. It is a 3-star hotel with 5-star service.

The hotel, painted bright orange, is hard to miss and is visible from far. It is just 20 minutes' drive from the Sultan Mahmud Airport.The rooms are divided into several types.There is the single (twin sharing), studio or triple, together with four suites, a royal suite, a presidential suite and two executive suites.

George Loong, the hotel's general manager would share with you stories (if he is not occupied) over coffee about the colourful guests who stayed at the hotel and about the many places to visit in KT.

He could also share some of the country's checkered history as he was a young boy living in Kuala Lumpur during World War II (1942- 1945).

Grand Continental KT was one of the host hotels for the recently held Monsoon Cup 2005 on Pulau Duyung.

KT itself has many attractions if one cares to spend some time to explore and most of it is within walking distance from the hotel.