Did you know that Port Dickson was once famous for charcoal production and ore mining? The small town in Negeri Sembilan used to be a carbon mine at the first mile of the coast road. Port Dickson started to develop and blossom during the British colonial period and has since became a busy trading center. Today, Port Dickson is associated heavily with resorts, beaches and seafood. But the state’s main source of economic growth is mainly oil and gas production (Shell and Petron refineries) and tourism (beautiful 18km beaches that are well preserved).
Port Dickson – The Getaway
It takes approximately an hour to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson via the North-South Expressway. City folks who are tired of the hustle and bustle city life can spend the weekend over at Port Dickson.
There is a plethora of accommodations available in Port Dickson, each to suit a traveler’s different needs and wants. The better-known ones include Grand Lexis Port Dickson, Thistle Port Dickson Resort, Avillion Port Dickson and Lexis Port Dickson. However, since this article is for those who are eager to save cash, AirBnB would make for wiser choice.
Discovering cozy Homestays
A group of 8 adults would require reserving two Family Suites at a hotel, which could easily cost more than RM1,000. Homestays are a great alternative to this, as not only are they able to accommodate a large group of people at the same time, they’re essentially homes, so it’s sort of a home away from home.
Anak-Anak Ummi’s Homestay
Recently, I have had the opportunity to stay in Anak-Anak Ummi’s Homestay and experienced my first ever homestay experience. Do not be deceived by the word ‘Homestay’ and associate ‘Homestay’ with old village worn down ‘atap’ houses. Despite the overall design of the homestay is rustic (it was intentional), it was a pleasant stay for 8 adults for approximately RM60/pax for a night.
What I liked about Anak-Anak Ummi’s Homestay
- Strategically located.
- The homestay is 5 minutes walking distance to beach/Batu 4 and Saturdays Night Market.
- Overall Rustic Home Design.
- The concept of the home is environmental friendly with mini garden located inside of each room. Imagining waking up and the first thing you see is a cozy little garden, so tranquil and serene.
- Reasonably Price.
- The price is reasonable given the quality of stay.
- Quality of Stay.
- The home is clean, tidy and comfortable. It is suitable to hold private events (ie: Celebrate Birthday, Bridal Shower etc.) and it promotes mind relaxation.
- Friendly and helpful Host.
- The owner is very responsive and provided tips for traveling around Port Dickson.
What are the Tourist Spots Nearby?
- Beach with watersports.
- There are a variety of watersports such as banana boats, kayaking, sailing, parasailing and jet ski.
- Local Night Market on Saturdays.
- The best place to try local food is to visit their local night market. The best place to buy souvenirs is to also visit their night market. I believe for foreign tourist, the local night market will be an eye opener experience.
- Lukut Musuem and Fort.
- For history enthusiast, this is a good place to be amazed by the antiquities of the fort.
- Tanjung Tuan (Cape Rachado)
- This tourist spot is famous for Cape Rachado Lighthouse looks toward the straits of Malacca. Tourist can go for a jungle walk and discover the natural wildlife conservation area.
- Army Musuem.
- There are several decommissioned military vehicles (Ie: Planes, tanks and artillery guns) and water fountain which was built in memory for all the soldiers who have served through the Malaysia’s war history, displayed outside of the museum.
- PD Waterfront.
- The only McDonald’s in Malaysia which is near to the beach! You can have a good view of sunset if you are seated at the open area at the top floor of McDonalds while the sea breeze blow towards your face.
Interview of Anak-Anak Ummi
Comfortable and lovely house, which makes you feel relaxing and at home. Great location and beach is just 5 mins walk away. Will definitely come back and recommend to friends and family!
–Consciences999 –