STAYING IN JOHOR BAHRU

Far from your typical border city, Johor has reinvigorated itself over recent years to become an in-demand destination for long and short stay travellers alike. Many professionals working in Singapore prefer to commute across the causeway separating Singapore from Malaysia and opt for a long-stay serviced apartment option to enjoy the many benefits the lifestyle in Johor affords. Whether it's dining out, shopping or the general cost of living, Johor offers a comfortable and almost idyllic existence for executives, couples and families. "JB", as it's known by locals, also boasts a wealth of historical sites, including Chinese temples, the Istana Besar, the Siew Heritage Gallery and much more.

Short stay visitors looking for a hotel in Johor Bahru will love the Puteri Harbour area, conveniently located near leading leisure sites including Legoland Malaysia, Sanrio Hello Kitty Town, the Dataran Mahkota, and the Horizon Hills Golf and Country Club.

A WALK THROUGH HISTORY

The Johor Bahru Heritage Trail is a great way to see some of Johor's top historical and cultural attractions on foot. Johor's history - like much of Malaysia - is one of immigration and colonisation from numerous cultures, reflected today in the colonial-era architecture of historical sites such as the High Court, Sultan Ibrahim Building, the Chinese Heritage Museum, the Old Railway Station and the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque. A leisurely walk around the city centre will allow you to see most of the top sites. To gain a sense of Johor's yesteryear, take a stroll through Old Town along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee. Don't miss out on seeing the stunning Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple, a Hindu temple covered in intricate designs made out of coloured glass. The effect is both opulent and brilliant and likely  to take your breath away.

THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF FUN

No trip to Johor Bahru is complete without at least a couple of days spent at Legoland Malaysia. Located within easy travel distance of your serviced apartments in Puteri Harbour, the theme park is Lego's first park in Asia - a plastic bricked wonderland that's a tonne of fun for the whole family. The park features over 70 rides, live shows and in-park attractions ideal for people of all ages and abilities. Divided into eight zones, the park covers the entire Lego 'universe'. The kids will love Lego Ninjago World and Miniland Imagination, while big kids at heart might particularly enjoy the Lego Technic zone.

THE GOOD CUP

In many respects, Johor is a young city - young at heart at least. So it's perhaps no surprise then the city boasts a flourishing contemporary café scene. You'll find most of the best cafés close to the city centre, within easy driving distance of your apartment in Johor Bahru. For fresh and delicious brunch fare, head to Flowers in the Window cafe on Jalan Dhoby. The decor is decidedly botanical - it's a calm oasis after a day spent shopping and seeing the sights. For something a bit quirky and uber hipster, head to Roost, Recycled & Repurposed Café which is also located on Jalan Dhoby. As the name suggests, the theme is retro-recycled shabby chic, with a menu full of healthy and hearty pasta bowls, juices and salads.