Ever feel like ditching the city for a day of seafood and quirky adventures? Then pack your bags, because we’re heading to Pulau Ketam, Malaysia‘s Crab Island! Fizah and Roman did just that, and lucky for us, they caught it all on video. Let’s dive in!
About us
Roman and Fizah are a fun-loving French-Malaysian couple. They traded the landscapes of New Zealand for the vibrant streets of Malaysia. Their YouTube channel is all about discovering the hidden gems of Malaysia. You can follow their adventures and subscribe to their channel here: Roman and Fizah’s YouTube Channel.
Discovering Pulau Ketam: An Introduction
Pulau Ketam, meaning “Crab Island” in Malay, is a unique little island. It’s just 75 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. That makes it perfect for a day trip. The island boasts a distinct culture, centered around the lives of fishermen. Think stilt houses, colorful boats, and the freshest seafood you can imagine. If you want to escape the city chaos, Pulau Ketam is calling your name. Roman and Fizah visited and it looked amazing!
Getting to Pulau Ketam from Kuala Lumpur
So, how do you get to this crab-tastic island from Kuala Lumpur? You’ve got two main options:
Option 1: Drive or Rent a Car
Driving gives you the most freedom. You can blast your favorite tunes and stop wherever you want. Plus, you can pack all the snacks! Use Waze or Google Maps to guide you. Once you reach Port Klang, you’ll find parking available.
Option 2: Take the Train
This is the budget-friendly choice. Hop on a train from KL Central to Port Klang. The fare? A steal at around $1.50 USD (6.40 Ringgit). It’s easy on the wallet and saves you the hassle of driving.
Roman and Fizah chose to drive. Which option would you pick?
Checking into the Unique Hotel Experience
Forget fancy lobbies and bellhops. Checking into their hotel was an experience in itself! To get their key, they had to head to a local store. How quirky is that? It’s definitely a check-in process they’d never seen before.
Their home for the night was Pulau Ketam Guesthouse. It’s a short, five-minute walk from the jetty. Talk about convenient! The room was basic but comfy. And at only $18 USD per night, it’s perfect for travelers on a budget. If you want to book a room you can search online for “Polo Guesthouse Pulau Ketam” to find booking websites.
Pulau Ketam’s Seafood Paradise
Pulau Ketam is famous for its fresh seafood. Think prawns, fish, crabs – you name it! Roman loves prawns, especially the creamy butter prawns. They cost 48 Ringgit for a small portion. Fizah went for a tasty fish dish. The total bill came to 103 Ringgit (about $25 USD). Pretty affordable for a seafood feast!
So, was the seafood any good? Yes is was “really, really good!” The dishes were fresh and flavorful. If you visit, be sure to try the creamy butter prawns. You’ll definitely get your money’s worth!
Electric Motorbike Adventures on a Car-Free Island
Forget gas guzzlers! Pulau Ketam is all about electric motorbikes. Since there are no gas stations on the island, these eco-friendly rides are the way to go. Fizah was eager to rent one and explore. Cruising around on a car-free island? Sounds like a blast!
We hopped on our motorbike and zoomed off. But after just 10 minutes, they reached the end of the road! The village is pretty small, but Fizah suggested checking out the other side of the island. Adventure awaits!
Sweet Treats: Discovering ABC (Ais Batu Campur)
They were on the hunt for fried ice cream. Instead, they stumbled upon ABC (Ais Batu Campur). It’s a shaved ice dessert with brown sugar, jelly, and other goodies. Think of it like cendol, but with a rose syrup twist. And at just 4 Ringgit (about 90 cents USD), it’s a steal.
Imagine this: a hot day, and a mountain of shaved ice topped with sweet syrup and colorful jelly. Sounds refreshing, right? ABC is a must-try on Pulau Ketam. It’s the perfect way to cool down and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Photo Opportunities: Capturing the Essence of Pulau Ketam
Pulau Ketam is a photographer’s dream. Stilt houses reflecting in the water, colorful fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, and lush mangrove forests. Make sure to capture:
- The stilt houses
- The fishing boats
- The mangrove forests
- Stunning sunset shots
Interacting with Locals: Embracing the Community
Don’t be shy! Talk to the locals. The residents of Pulau Ketam are known for their friendliness. Learning about their way of life is part of the adventure. Bonus points if you try a few basic Malay phrases! Remember to be respectful.
Let’s keep Pulau Ketam beautiful. Be mindful of your impact on the environment. Support local businesses and avoid littering. Let’s help preserve this unique island for future generations.
Pulau Ketam offered a “little getaway from KL.” It was a chance to relax and escape the city. If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, Pulau Ketam might be your next unforgettable memory.
Additional Tips for Planning Your Trip
Here are some extra tips to make your Pulau Ketam adventure even better:
- Best Time to Visit: Visit during the dry season (March to September) for the best weather.
- What to Pack: Sunscreen, insect repellent, comfy shoes, light clothing, and cash.
- Things to Note: Be aware of the tides, as they can affect boat schedules. Respect the local culture.
Budget Breakdown: How Much Does a Trip to Pulau Ketam Cost?
Here’s a rough idea of what you might spend:
- Transportation: $5 – $20 USD (depending on your choice)
- Accommodation: $18+ USD (if staying overnight)
- Food: $15 – $30 USD
- Activities: $5 – $10 USD
As you can see, a trip to Pulau Ketam won’t break the bank.
Pulau Ketam Beyond Seafood: Other Activities to Enjoy
Besides devouring delicious seafood, here are some other things to do:
- Mangrove Boat Tour: Explore the mangrove forests by boat.
- Fishing Village Walk: Wander through the village and observe daily life.
- Bird Watching: Spot various bird species in the mangroves.
- Visit the Chinese Temple: Admire the architecture of the local temple.
Accommodation Options: Where to Stay on Pulau Ketam
Besides Polo Guesthouse, here are a few other options:
- Sea Lion Hotel: A popular choice with comfy rooms.
- Bagan Hotel: Offers a range of rooms for different budgets.
- Homestays: Experience local hospitality in a homestay.
Connecting with Roman and Fizah’s Adventures
Follow Roman and Fizah on social media:
- Instagram: @Fizahandroman
- Facebook: Romanandfizah
- TikTok: @Fizahandroman
Final Thoughts: Is Pulau Ketam Worth a Visit?
So, is Pulau Ketam worth the trip? Absolutely! It offers a unique glimpse into Malaysian culture, delicious seafood, and a chance to escape the city. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, and anyone looking for an authentic experience. Go for it, you will not regret it!
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