The immediate tell-tale signs you have landed in Malaysia are very clear:
Malaysia is very attractive proposition for many reasons. Our guide will detail why you should move it up your bucket list of must-see travel destinations. The Malay language is dominant throughout the peninsula, but English is common also. In fact, throughout much of Asia English is common in most towns and cities.
Life is easier for tourists because of a well-supported and modern transport infrastructure. Malaysia has that covered too. You should also take note that Malaysia is one of the most affordable Asian destinations to come to. Despite Malaysia attracting a lot of investment, for tourists' prices remain stable. Costs are in your favor, in other words.
The epicenter of cuisine in Kuala Lumpur must be the city's Chinatown. Get a taxi from your hotel to drop you off somewhere on Petaling Street. It'll be an enjoyable ride as you stare out of the window, up at the magnificent, decadent skyscrapers. Visit Chinatown after nightfall and the neon will dazzle you. Yet not feel embarrassed either by your squeals of delight.
Kuala Lumpur, the city, is reason enough to visit Malaysia never mind anything else. Traveling halfway around the world for it, is worth it. The amazing thing about Chinatown is there is a rich blend of culture. Chinese traits you come across of course but there are Islamic and Hindu, as well. You feel dizzy trying to make any sense of where to begin. We may suggest you stroll the length of the street first. That's before deciding on any street food vendor or restaurant.
Much of the best establishments are out of sight and you must hunt down the best food haunts. They're usually tucked away, down quiet alleyways. And get used to the idea of walking when in Chinatown. Because that's the only way you'll discover the best food and experiences. But Chinatown isn't only about the street food. There are cocktail bars aplenty, and the nightlife will be irresistible to many.
Before leaving Chinatown, make it your mission to snack on Banana Fritters. Wash those down with an Iced Coffee sweetened with condensed milk.
Seoul, in South Korea is ultra-modern and one of the world's leading cities. Walking and traveling around Kuala Lumpur you sense Malaysia is catching up fast. But nosey around a little more though, and you'll find the traditional old as well. It's all there if you know where to look. Our favorite landmarks to see are:
Step away from the Petronas Towers early evening around about 20:00 hours. When you do, you're met with the Lake Symphony. The colorful water fountains dance in time to the music playing and it is such a memorizing sight. All colors of the spectrum add a sparkle to your evening. Find yourself in a restaurant near to the towers beforehand and attend the event after your meal.
Of all the attractions of the city this is one you must not miss out on ― even the trees are ablaze in color. Incredible.
Nature and wildlife aren't far from Kuala Lumpur by the way. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to find relaxation in walking. The best feature of the reserve is the 200m canopy walkway which takes you up into the treetops. Seeing the city in the distance, have your camera ready to snap some remarkable memories.
The park is home to small mammals such as the monkey and birds, and endangered tree species such as the camphor. But in our opinion, it's urbanization that is the greatest threat to this natural world. Other than the walks there is a garden and a picnicking area. It's a great day out for families.
Located north of the equator this makes Malaysia a hot and humid country. You can expect rainy spells throughout the year. And yet temperatures are between 65° Fahrenheit and 90° Fahrenheit. Despite the hot temperatures there is no dry season in Malaysia. There is the inconsistency in rainfall, brought with the monsoons. It does rain and there is no getting away from it.
The worst of it, from a Kuala Lumpur point of view, is from June through to August and then in January and February. The thunderstorms usually occur in the afternoon and clear up after a period of time. But don't see as a problem. The threat of rain isn't a deal breaker because it brings a welcome respite from the tremendous heat.
And such an intense burst of rainfall is a sight to behold. It's remarkable how much power nature has at her fingertips.
Very different from one part to another. You have the Cameron Highlands and the large swaths of tea plantations. The landscape is carpeted in the growing of this rich sought-after tea.
Atop the Gunung Brinchang Mountain is a patch of beautiful rainforest. At an altitude of 2000m it's a lot cooler there than it is further down. Take a sleeved shirt with you in case and wear a comfortable pair of boots as you'll need to walk. Or pay one of the authorized drivers to take you to where you want to go. The Mossy Forest entrance fee is US$9 per adult but it's worth it.
A part of Malaysia's colonial past, the city is full of charm. The architectural heritage sparkles like crown jewels. All you have to do is take a stroll along the kilometers of Ipoh Heritage Walk. Roughly 180km north of Kaula Lumpur the city has grown out the era of being an old mining town. Today there are many natural attractions:
For us the best of Ipoh was being greeted by the mountains blanketed in rainforest. It's a nature lovers paradise. Get out of the city for the best experience. The 30-hectare Gunung Lang Park has a lengthy boardwalk and lookout towers. For the best sights of the bird and wildlife, attend the park as part of a guided tour for the best experience.
On your journey to Ipoh City, from Kaula Lumpur, we recommend you stop in at the Sungai Klah Hot Spring Park. The hot springs are perfect for bathing, whilst you relax and afterwards you go for lunch.
The Malaysian part of Borneo is fantastic for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. What is so important to understand, and appreciate, about Borneo? It could be that it has the oldest rainforests on the planet. And the Malay government has made considerable efforts to keep it protected. Yet there remain fears of exploitation.
Of all the varied animal species found in the rainforests and swamp land the ones we are all familiar with are:
Now is the time to visit this natural world for wildlife and beauty before it is gone. There are nature and wildlife reserves all over Malaysia. One that sticks out, and a favorite of ours is the Lower Kinabatangan River reserve. Take a nighttime cruise along the river for the nocturnal life. You must focus your attention on a beam of light and be patient.
Your reward is a pair of eyes staring back out at you. But you have to be quick before it flees into the darkness.
One half of the amusement and enjoyment is in learning what it was you saw. The other half is the peacefulness of the river and its surroundings. And although it is pitch black, you are not afraid ― the guides know the lay of the land very well. Returning to your hotel afterwards, it finally hits you. The Palm oil plantations are squeezing these beautiful creatures to extinction.
You will love the natural beauty and wildlife of Langkawi Island. It's our favorite by the way. The geological park alone is reason enough to visit the Island. So, what's the realization about the Islands of Malaysia? The beauty of nature and marine life found in plentiful amounts. The Islands are fast becoming popular.
Tourists are learning about Malaysia's hidden gems, the beaches and laidback vibes. Many of the Islands are still a little obscure but that is changing. Because the Islands have some with the luxurious touches, we've all come to expect from a holiday to Asia:
The Islands are the perfect picture postcard setting for a weekend getaway. Say, from Kuala Lumpur for example. For honeymoon couples, or a Valentines short break, there are so many Islands for you to flee to. It's unbelievable, so your problem is to choose which Island is for you. Read our separate guide (link below) for more information on Malaysia's top Islands.
You'll find Malaysia's pristine marine coral at its finest in Sabah and Sarawak. When snorkeling in these waters, you are enjoying the best possible experience. Being part of the "Coral Triangle", Malaysia has the largest biodiversity in the world, with:
This is where you can see the fish species often referred to as "Nemo" in the movie "Finding Nemo". To be swimming so close to so many species of fish and coral leaves you feel amazing:
Pack your swimwear and take yourself to one of the Islands for an exciting, fun fueled day trip.
Two things you can't forgo whilst on holiday are a pleasing massage and a shopping trip. Both are relaxing and stimulating at the same time. And both give you an excuse for indulging your palate, also. Pretty much any large town or city there will be somewhere for you to unwind. You can relax and enjoy the best possible spa experience, as good as anywhere.
And you must not think to yourself it's not a big deal because it is. Traveling is one of those things we put up with to experience something new. New experiences such as culture, food and festivals. But traveling is stressful too, which isn't healthy. Going to a spa promises you a relaxing time. The treatment for most of us releases tension, thus preventing headaches. A spa experience allows us to feel pampered and reenergized.
Which is great before a shopping spree. Best of all, costs in Malaysia are lower to neighboring countries.
Don't leave it until the last minute to shuttle between the capital's shopping malls. There are many well-known retail units in malls selling some of the world's best brands. The malls in Malaysia are the best in class you could ask for. The shopping complexes can be massive in floor space and number of levels.
The most popular for foreigners is the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur Shopping Mall. Inside, there are luxurious white marble features and 450 separate stores. It's as popular for the variety in as many of the stores as it is for the facilities:
And much more. You could fit an entire day of shopping into this one mall and be content. One of the best features of the mall is its Liuli Crystal fountain. Very majestic and one of Malaysia's finest centerpieces in our opinion.
But if it is a cinematic experience, you are after, then turn your attention to Suria KLCC instead. The building has a 12-screen movie theater and Kuala Lumpur's only decent concert hall. Plus a few other bits and pieces. What we really love about the shopping malls in Malaysia, and elsewhere ― in particular Seoul ― is they give families a great time in terms of filling a day with quality entertainment. It's the whole package you are getting.
There are so many other malls in the capital we'll let you discover more about them when you do go on holiday to Malaysia:
In all the excitement and drama just keep in mind there are other shopping options available to you. The Central Market for a start and there's the Taman Connaught Night Market on the mid-week Wednesday which is always bustling with shoppers. And it isn't just Kuala Lumpur that sees all the action: the port town of George Town on Penang Island gives the tourist just as good a time.
One of the best items to buy for yourself and as a gift to someone is Malaysia's Batik Silk fabric. Each and every design is unique and largely hand crafted. Incredible quality and the texture are extremely smooth to the touch and feel, a seamstress could create something magical for you with your purchase.
For the average tourist as much for the seasoned traveler there are lots of things to see and do, and fall in love with, in Malayasia. For us the highlight, as always, must be the natural world that thrives once you take yourself out of a metropolis.
But the modern infrastructure and fast paced life of those cities are attractive too, it must be said. In Malaysia it's the little luxuries that are affordable:
But it is more expensive in another capital city. Our thoughts are when you do come to Malaysia for a holiday by all means enjoy yourself but also consider touring with an ethical guide. One who is local and values the precious wildlife first as a priority.
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