Places of Interest, Johor   Johor has much to offer travellers such as its rich history, colourful culture, shopping and entertainment attractions with a large number located in Johor Bahru city such as the Sultan Abu Bakar mosque, Johor Art Gallery and Pasir Gudang Racing Circuit.     Muar Muar also known as Bandar Maharani is popular for its delicious and inexpensive foods served by food stalls and restaurants. A picturesque town located strategically on the Muar River, its natural means of transportation from the hinterland originally helped in its growth. Visitors can enjoy a drive or stroll along tree-lined Jalan Tanjung, which follows the river mouth on the south side. Along this road, you will see mosques, old colonial houses, government buildings and a beautiful park.   Segamat Segamat is a small town situated 186 km away from Johor Bahru. It is most renowned for its durians as there are many fruit orchards in the district of Segamat. The town has remained relatively unchanged over the years but this adds to the overall charm of Segamat. The local fare is excellent and visitors must visit the fruits orchards for a complete tour of Segamat.     Mersing Mersing is a pleasant fishing town known also as the gateway to the nearby islands. There are many shops for you to stock up on your supplies before setting off for the islands. Mersing also offers numerous restaurants, resorts and inexpensive hotels to put for the night before catching your boat if you arrive after 6.00pm as most boats travel during daylight hours only. Take time to pick your transport as there are many boat operators offering different rates.     Batu Pahat Second only to Johor Bahru, this rapidly expanding town is also considered as the textile capital of Malaysia. It still retains a semblance of old world atmosphere, especially in its buildings which reflect their Asian influences and culture which meld harmoniously into this busy, fast paced town. Its becoming an increasingly popular conference venue and regional business centre. A favourite resting place with road travelers, a brief stop here should give you a chance to taste a wide range of fruits, groundnuts and other local delicacies as well as souvenirs and curios.   Kluang Located in the centre of Johor State, Kluang offers scenic drives through mountain range that intersects the peninsula from north to south. The town is famous for its little coffee shops that serve some of the best coffee in Malaysia. Its also a food paradise with open stalls scattered across town serving local fare. Visitors can go hiking at the nearby Gunung Lambak or the recreational park within the mountain rain forest.     Kota Tinggi Kota Tinggi is a town located about 45 minutes drive from Johor Bahru. A rapidly expanding town, the hustle and bustle of this town is charming as the traditional blends well with the modern. Modern progress is taking place here with many new buildings as well as the Government's plan to move the administrative centre from Johor Bahru to Kota Tinggi. Kota Tinggi's main attraction lies in its waterfalls at Lombong. The cool waters have beckoned many tourists and locals alike. Chalets are available for visitors seeking an overnight visit.     Johor Bahru Apart from its appeal as a shopping destination, Johor Bahru offers the visitor several interesting heritage building and historical sites. The Royal Sultan Abu Bakar Museum and Grand Palace is sited amidst beautiful and immaculate gardens. The Royal Sultan Abu Bakar with its extraordinary European design influenced dome is an ideal for photography. The Johor Art Gallery boasts a wide array of historical and traditional artifacts. The Mawar Gift Shop and Johor Tourism Information Centre (JOTIC) offers a selection of dainty souvenirs.   Pontian Pontian is situated approximately one hour's drive from Johor Bahru. A fishing village, the fishermen stay in houses raised on stilits above the water. Visitors come to Pontian to taste the fresh seafood at Kukup at the many restaurants here. The road to Pontian is flanked by pineapple plantations.