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AI-Livingstone
01 Dec 2025
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Johor Bahru & Nearby Top Landmarks

14-Day Johor Bahru & Nearby Cities: Highlights and Balance

This 14-day itinerary combines Johor Bahru’s cultural landmarks, coastal escapes and natural adventures to give a varied experience of southern Peninsular Malaysia. Start with heritage sites and museums in the city to understand local history and architecture, then use Larkin Sentral as a hub to reach nearby islands, beaches and waterfront precincts. Spend days exploring unique religious and royal sites, family-friendly attractions like Legoland and Desaru Coast, and relaxing marina areas at Puteri Harbour and Danga Bay. Allocate time for island hopping to Pulau Sibu and Kusu Island, a hike up Mount Ophir for panoramic views and nature immersion, plus refreshing visits to Kota Tinggi Waterfalls. Include a short excursion to Muar for a quieter riverside atmosphere and heritage charm. The pace balances sightseeing with downtime—urban walks, beach days, light hikes and cultural visits—allowing flexibility to add organized tours or rest days as you prefer.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

    Architectural and historical significance: built in the late 19th century, the mosque blends Victorian, Moorish and Malay design, offering impressive domes, minarets and panoramic views over the Straits of Johor. It's a peaceful place for reflection, photography and to learn about Johor's royal and religious heritage.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Sultan Ibrahim Building (Old State Secretariat)

    Historical landmark and civic architecture: this iconic early-20th-century building served as Johor’s administrative center and showcases colonial-era architecture with ornate detail. Visiting provides insight into the state’s political history, photo opportunities of its façade and nearby heritage streets, and a sense of Johor Bahru’s urban evolution.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

    Unique cultural and artistic experience: one of the few glass-covered Hindu temples in the world, its interior and exterior mosaics of colored glass and mirrors create a dazzling, immersive atmosphere. The temple offers cultural insight into local Hindu traditions, vibrant visual art, and a memorable, photogenic landmark unlike typical religious sites.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum

    Cultural heritage and local history: the museum preserves the stories, artifacts and photographs of Johor Bahru’s Chinese community, illustrating migration patterns, trades and family life. Visiting offers context on the city’s multicultural roots, tangible links to traditional crafts and businesses, and opportunities to learn about community leaders and social customs.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Istana Besar (Grand Palace) / Royal Abu Bakar Museum

    Royal history and period interiors: the former sultan’s palace houses royal regalia, antiques and exhibits that trace Johor’s monarchy and statecraft. The building’s grand architecture and curated displays provide insight into royal life, ceremonial traditions and the political development of Johor, making it valuable for history and architecture enthusiasts.
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Danga Bay

    Waterfront recreation and family-friendly attractions: Danga Bay is a popular leisure precinct with landscaped promenades, views over the Straits of Johor, dining and entertainment options, and occasional events. It’s ideal for relaxing strolls, sunset photography, family outings and experiencing the city’s coastal vibe without travelling far from the urban core.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Larkin Sentral (transport hub area)

    Gateway and local life: as Johor Bahru’s main bus terminal, Larkin Sentral connects you to domestic and cross-border destinations (including Singapore) and is useful for planning onward travel. The surrounding streets bustle with authentic local eateries, shops and services, offering a glimpse into everyday urban life and convenient access to tours, buses and taxis.
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  • Trip Point Pin8

    Kusu Island (Pulau Kusu)

    Spiritual and serene island escape: Kusu Island is known for its Malay and Chinese shrines, a calm sandy bay and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for reflection and light exploration. Pilgrims visit for its sacred sites and tortoise sanctuary; visitors enjoy short boat trips from the mainland, swimming in shallow waters, shell-collecting and panoramic seaside views.
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  • Trip Point Pin9

    Pulau Sibu (Sibu Island)

    Beaches and island relaxation: Pulau Sibu offers clear waters, sandy beaches, snorkeling and simple island resorts—perfect for a quieter, nature-focused getaway from the city. Activities include swimming, snorkeling coral patches, jungle walks and enjoying fresh seafood; it’s a good option for day trips or overnight stays to unwind and experience Malaysia’s coastal biodiversity.
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  • Trip Point Pin10

    Desaru Coast (including Desaru Beach and Desaru Fruit Farm)

    Coastal recreation and agritourism: Desaru Coast delivers long sandy beaches, water sports, resorts and family-friendly attractions, while Desaru Fruit Farm offers hands-on experiences with tropical fruit tasting, farm tours and cultural demonstrations. Together they make for a balanced day of sun, swimming and learning about local agriculture and cuisine away from the city.
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  • Trip Point Pin11

    Legoland Malaysia (Theme Park - landmark/activity)

    Family entertainment and unique attractions: Legoland provides themed rides, interactive LEGO exhibits, water park features and shows suited to children and adults who enjoy creative play. It’s a major regional attraction with immersive brick-built displays, hands-on activities and convenient resort facilities—good for families, groups or anyone seeking a full-day amusement experience.
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  • Trip Point Pin12

    Puteri Harbour (marina & waterfront attractions)

    Scenic marina, dining and leisure precinct: Puteri Harbour combines a pleasant waterfront promenade, yacht marina, cafes and family attractions (like playgrounds and small-scale entertainment). It’s ideal for relaxed strolls, sunset views, waterfront dining and boat-watching, plus serves as a gateway to nearby leisure islands and attractions in a well-maintained, tourist-friendly setting.
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  • Trip Point Pin13

    Mount Ophir (Gunung Ledang) - hiking/nature landmark

    Scenic hiking and folklore: Gunung Ledang offers challenging trails, varied rainforest ecosystems and panoramic summit views for experienced hikers. The mountain is steeped in local legend (the Princess of Mount Ophir), making treks culturally interesting as well as physically rewarding. Birdwatching, waterfalls along the routes and cooler highland air provide a nature-rich contrast to coastal Johor.
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  • Trip Point Pin14

    Kota Tinggi Waterfalls (Sungai Pandan Waterfall)

    Natural swimming and picnic spot: the Kota Tinggi falls are a popular, accessible destination featuring cascades, natural pools and shaded picnic areas—great for swimming, cooling off and family outings. The surrounding forested setting is suitable for short walks, photography and enjoying riverine wildlife without deep wilderness trekking, making it an easy day trip from Johor Bahru.
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  • Trip Point Pin15

    Muar Clocktower and riverside (nearby city landmark)

    Heritage riverside and local atmosphere: Muar’s clocktower and riverfront precinct reflect the town’s colonial and maritime past, with charming streets, food stalls and historical buildings nearby. Strolling the riverside offers scenic views, opportunities to try local specialties (not included here as restaurants), and a relaxed small-town vibe that showcases traditional Malay and Peranakan influences outside the urban bustle.
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Restaurants

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    IT Roo Café (Haji Shariff Food Court)

    4.1
    $$$$

    IT Roo Café (Haji Shariff Food Court)

    Local favorite for kaya toast, kaya butter toast with kopi and traditional Malaysian breakfast—great for experiencing authentic Johor Bahru coffeehouse culture.
    4.1
    $$$$
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    Restoran Hua Mui

    3.5
    $$$$

    Restoran Hua Mui

    Historic kopitiam known for its Hainanese chicken chop, pork chops and classic local dishes served in an old-school setting—offers nostalgic flavors and atmosphere.
    3.5
    $$$$
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    Selera Senibong Seafood Village

    4
    $$$$

    Selera Senibong Seafood Village

    Popular waterfront seafood cluster famous for fresh seafood dishes and grilled specialties—ideal for a leisurely dinner with sea views and communal dining.
    4
    $$$$
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    Tepian Tebrau (Jalan Meldrum) Street Food Stalls

    4

    Tepian Tebrau (Jalan Meldrum) Street Food Stalls

    Vibrant street-food stretch offering satay, laksa, grilled seafood and local snacks—perfect for sampling a wide variety of Johor specialties in one area.
    4
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    The Replacement — Lodge & Kitchen (JB branch)

    4.2
    $$$$

    The Replacement — Lodge & Kitchen (JB branch)

    Trendy café serving quality brunch fare, specialty coffee and modern casual dishes—good for relaxed meals in a contemporary setting between sightseeing.
    4.2
    $$$$
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Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    The Puteri Harbour Hotel

    4.4

    The Puteri Harbour Hotel

    Waterfront location beside Puteri Harbour marina with family-friendly rooms and easy access to dining, promenade walks and ferry connections. Good base for Puteri Harbour attractions and nearby Legoland/Desaru day trips.
    4.4
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    Amari Johor Bahru (formerly Thistle Johor Bahru)

    4.4

    Amari Johor Bahru (formerly Thistle Johor Bahru)

    Central, upscale hotel close to JB city attractions and transport links; offers comfortable rooms, pool and dining—convenient for exploring Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque, Istana Besar and the Chinese Heritage Museum.
    4.4
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    DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru

    4.5

    DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru

    Modern hotel with strong transport access and leisure facilities; well-located for exploring downtown JB, Danga Bay and transfer options for island or Desaru excursions.
    4.5
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    Amansari Residence Resort Desaru

    3.9

    Amansari Residence Resort Desaru

    Resort-style accommodation near Desaru Coast offering beach access, family amenities and easy visits to Desaru Fruit Farm and coastal activities—suitable for relaxing stays away from the city.
    3.9
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    Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort (Pulau Sibu area alternative)

    Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort (Pulau Sibu area alternative)

    A beachfront resort option for those wanting to stay near Pulau Sibu—offers direct beach access, simple resort comforts and activities like snorkeling and island walks for a quiet island experience.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Singapore Uncut Tour

    Singapore Uncut Tour

    Scratch beneath the glitzy surface of this city nation to uncover best-kept “secrets” where there’s more than meets the eye! If you have wondered if there’s more to its sleek reputation, wondered where’s the dirt, this is your kinda thing!
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    Singapore River Cruise

    Singapore River Cruise

    Board the traditional bumboat and discover the beautiful city views as you sail along Clarke Quay in Singapore. Watch the beautiful sunset scenery as you enjoy this Singapore River Cruise.
    Map IconSingapore (0 mi)
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Ive been to johor few times. I also want to know. Lol ... Watch a JDT match, get piss drunk at Forest City/Stulang duty-free zones, drive around to makan, go fishing at Rompin...

    Is there like...anywhere to go or anything to do in Johor Bahru?

    Ive been to johor few times. I also want to know. Lol ... Watch a JDT match, get piss drunk at Forest City/Stulang duty-free zones, drive around to makan, go fishing at Rompin...

    /r/malaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    Evening: Head to Danga Bay, Johor Bahrus premier waterfront destination. Enjoy dinner by the bay and take a leisurely walk while soaking in the night views. Morning: Venture o...

    What You Can Do in 3 Days in Johor Your Ultimate Guide

    Evening: Head to Danga Bay, Johor Bahrus premier waterfront destination. Enjoy dinner by the bay and take a leisurely walk while soaking in the night views. Morning: Venture o...

    /r/AllAboutMalaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    A suitable place for parents. Feel like learning history? Go to Kota Tinggi, there's a museum there. After visiting the museum, stop by Desaru to swim in the sea while wa...

    What are the interesting things in Johor?

    A suitable place for parents. Feel like learning history? Go to Kota Tinggi, there's a museum there. After visiting the museum, stop by Desaru to swim in the sea while wa...

    /r/OkeyRakanMalaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    I've heard of Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, new park that started operating not long ago.

    What Are the Must-Visit Places in Johor Bahru?

    I've heard of Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, new park that started operating not long ago.

    /r/malaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    I am currently planning an over-the-weekend trip with my friends to JB, and this will be the first time any of us have ever been there. So, do any

    Things to do when going to Johor Bahru (JB).

    I am currently planning an over-the-weekend trip with my friends to JB, and this will be the first time any of us have ever been there. So, do any

    /r/askSingapore
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  • Reddit Icon

    Start from Queen Street, take CW (Yellow bus) or Johor express (red bus) in, cost about 5bux. Johor express take cash or ezlink but pay at counter. CW takes visa card that you...

    One day trip to JB

    Start from Queen Street, take CW (Yellow bus) or Johor express (red bus) in, cost about 5bux. Johor express take cash or ezlink but pay at counter. CW takes visa card that you...

    /r/askSingapore
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  • Reddit Icon

    Puteri harbour, Iskandar Puteri, Johor at night...

    Suggestions from locals for one day trip from Johor Bahru to see some nature and real life

    Puteri harbour, Iskandar Puteri, Johor at night...

    /r/malaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    I've been to Muar. Drove through Kota Tinggi and Mersing. They're big towns but not cities.

    Johor Bahru, Malaysia

    I've been to Muar. Drove through Kota Tinggi and Mersing. They're big towns but not cities.

    /r/malaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    So, I am an Singaporean PR from Jakarta. I have been wanting to go to JB for a solo day trip and would like to have some advice. Particularly on

    Traveling to Johor Bahru. What to take note?

    So, I am an Singaporean PR from Jakarta. I have been wanting to go to JB for a solo day trip and would like to have some advice. Particularly on

    /r/malaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    Have you tried looking at taking boat from Changi Point to Tanjong Pengerang (Johor) from there a short hop to desaru without the hassle

    Singapore to JB to Desaru coast/ferry

    Have you tried looking at taking boat from Changi Point to Tanjong Pengerang (Johor) from there a short hop to desaru without the hassle

    /r/askSingapore
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  • Reddit Icon

    Hi everyone. Sorry if this isn't relevant to this sub but I'm not sure if there is an active JB sub. I am planning on staying in JB towards the end

    Best central areas to stay in Johor Bahru

    Hi everyone. Sorry if this isn't relevant to this sub but I'm not sure if there is an active JB sub. I am planning on staying in JB towards the end

    /r/malaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    Im visiting from Thailand very soon, and Im traveling with my family for my dads business trip. I didnt find much recommendations online, so any

    Anywhere to visit in Johor Bahru?

    Im visiting from Thailand very soon, and Im traveling with my family for my dads business trip. I didnt find much recommendations online, so any

    /r/malaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    A subreddit about Malaysia and all things Malaysian Create your account and connect with a world of communities

    Desaru Beach and Southeastern Johor

    A subreddit about Malaysia and all things Malaysian Create your account and connect with a world of communities

    /r/malaysia
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  • Reddit Icon

    http://singaporebuspage.wordpress.com/bus-services-singapore-to-jb-johor-bahru/

    Best/most efficient way to get to Johor Bahru from Singapore?

    http://singaporebuspage.wordpress.com/bus-services-singapore-to-jb-johor-bahru/

    /r/singapore
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  • Reddit Icon

    Let me preface this by apologizing for my convoluted trains of thought. Hopefully this is an appropriate question to ask here (or on the Malaysia

    Crossing into Johor Bahru (and back) as a tourist

    Let me preface this by apologizing for my convoluted trains of thought. Hopefully this is an appropriate question to ask here (or on the Malaysia

    /r/askSingapore
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  • Reddit Icon

    17 votes, 28 comments. My family and I will be visiting Singapore in April and are planning on a day's visit to Johor Bahru on April 18th, which is

    What's the best/most efficient way to travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru, and back, for a day trip?

    17 votes, 28 comments. My family and I will be visiting Singapore in April and are planning on a day's visit to Johor Bahru on April 18th, which is

    /r/askSingapore
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  • Reddit Icon

    im from Singaporeand ive been to JB multiple times and did activities such as go kart, visiting cafes, cat & dog cafes, ring making workshop and

    Fun activities to do in Johor Bahru? ill be heading there next week for a 2 day 1 night trip!

    im from Singaporeand ive been to JB multiple times and did activities such as go kart, visiting cafes, cat & dog cafes, ring making workshop and

    /r/travel
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  • Reddit Icon

    I'm gonna stay in Johor Bahru for a week. Since I've never been here before, could anyone recommend me places to visit, food to try, and the best

    Planning to go to Johor Bahru

    I'm gonna stay in Johor Bahru for a week. Since I've never been here before, could anyone recommend me places to visit, food to try, and the best

    /r/malaysians
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  • Reddit Icon

    Hello, guys. I am an international student here. How much should I spend on the trip to Johor for 7 days in December, from 23-30? (Excluding the

    Hello guys. I wanna ask about travelling to Johor Bahru.

    Hello, guys. I am an international student here. How much should I spend on the trip to Johor for 7 days in December, from 23-30? (Excluding the

    /r/malaysia
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Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    A classic travel anthem that captures the excitement of journeying to new places and meeting new people—great for departures and long drives.
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  • Music Icon

    Talking Heads - Road to Nowhere

    Talking Heads - Road to Nowhere

    An upbeat, slightly wistful track about journeys and change that suits scenic drives and reflective moments.
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  • Music Icon

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    A warm, melodic song about belonging and return—comforting during evenings after a day of exploring.
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  • Music Icon

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Bright, optimistic and playful—this feel-good tune lifts spirits during island hopping or beach outings.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Weezer - Island In The Sun

    Weezer - Island In The Sun

    Laid-back and sunny, it evokes beach relaxation and tropical vibes—ideal for Desaru Coast or Pulau Sibu.
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  • Music Icon

    Empire of the Sun - Walking On A Dream

    Empire of the Sun - Walking On A Dream

    Dreamy electronic pop with a steady groove that pairs well with strolling promenades like Puteri Harbour or Danga Bay.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Coldplay - Adventure of a Lifetime

    Coldplay - Adventure of a Lifetime

    Uplifting and energetic, this song pumps positive energy for theme parks (Legoland) or active day trips.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    Nostalgic and scenic, it complements drives through rural landscapes—suitable for trips to Mount Ophir or Kota Tinggi.
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  • Music Icon

    Capital Cities - Safe And Sound

    Capital Cities - Safe And Sound

    A gentle, reassuring track that's good for twilight moments by the water or winding down after hikes.
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  • Music Icon

    Kimié Miner - Bamboo

    Kimié Miner - Bamboo

    An instrumental with light, tropical textures that subtly evokes Southeast Asian coastal atmospheres—good as background during beach or ferry time.
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