Mersing
Mersing town is located on the mainland of the picturesque East Coast of Johor, Malaysia. It is the gateway to the unique culture and yet unspoilt flora and fauna of the East Coast of Malaysia, the very first stop for many travellers to Malaysian state of Pahang's Tioman island and the more than 40 other islands located off the coast of the southernmost Malaysian state of Johor. Mersing town is well known for its jetty where passenger ferries depart daily to Tioman island and other Johor islands such as Pulau Besar, Pulau Tinggi and Pulau Rawa. However, Mersing town is not just a mere stopover, a transient path to the nearby islands - it is a unique town in its right and well worth a stayover to flavour a fast disappearing small-town lifestyle that once predominated the Malaysian country now giving way to urban modernization and economic development. As of today, there are only 2 main traffic light junctions and 2 roundabouts in Mersing town! 2 main roads run through the heart of Mersing town and the traditional and modern shophouses along these thoroughfares provide a wide range of modern services to visitors and residents alike. There are traditional grocery shops and modern supermarkets around the town. There are traditional local restaurants serving traditional fare and seafood as well as modern cafes and fast food outlets. For those obsessed with the trappings of modernity such as clubs, coffee cafes and shopping malls, it may appear that there is very little to see or do in Mersing but yet Mersing's true attraction is the beauty of its natural environment - the islands, its jungles and the sun, sand and the sea as well as the pace of life it offers amidst the warmth of living in a small town and community - a throwback to the life of Malaysians some 20 to 30 years ago. There are also plenty of natural attractions around Mersing town to keep one occupied. Being on the coast, the unspoilt beaches of the East Coast awaits visitors to explore their sandy beaches and rocky coasts. Fishing or Angling is a popular past time here among residents or beachcombing for shellfish and the natural treasures of the south-china sea. For those imbued with the spirit of exploration, Penyabung beach and Air Papan beach north of the town offers visitors a glimpse into the community and traditional life of Malay villages by the sea and the promise of clear sea waters lapping the shores of the mainland.
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