Travel Guide Genting Highlands

This high-altitude resort was built in the early 1970s to offer the people of Kuala Lumpur a breath of fresh air. Lim Goh Tong, the man behind this pharaonic project, wanted to develop a leisure destination different from the polite atmosphere of Cameron Highlands. After negotiations lasting 10 years, he obtained a license to open a casino and hotel. Success was immediate. Genting attracts not only Malaysians, but also many thrill-seeking Asians. To keep the crowds coming, other huge hotels were built, as well as theme parks, a golf course, a theater and even a 4-hectare artificial lake. The city is trying to shed its reputation as the Las Vegas of Malaysia and is looking to develop as a family destination. Unless you're an inveterate gambler, Genting Highlands shouldn't be on your travel itinerary.