Malaysia is not as well known as its northern neighbour Thailand, but I think that may be about to change. The amazing beaches, delicious food, untouched rainforests and awesome wildlife can only remain a secret for so long. Expect exotic double-barrelled place names, primeval jungles, crystal-blue seas, unique wildlife and vibrant & cosmopolitan metropolises.
View my travel tips and backpacking guide to Malaysia and plan a trip today.
Facts
Population – 33 million
Capital – Kuala Lumpur
Currency – Malaysian ringgit
Time Difference – GMT + 8 hours
Average flight time from London – 13 hours
Language – Malay
Religion – Islam
Telephone – International Dial – 00 60
Reasons to Visit Malaysia
Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in Asia. Several decades of sustained economic growth and political stability have made it one of the most buoyant and wealthy countries in the region.
Malaysia is a multicultural society, with Malays, Chinese and Indians living side by side. The Malays are the largest and most dominant of the of cultures, while the Chinese retain the majority of the economic clout.
This fusion of cultures make for interesting food, festivals and people. Located 7 degrees north of the equator, Peninsula Malaysia is separated from East Malaysia by the South China Sea. Peninsula Malaysia has a north/south spine of mountains, a wide fertile plain on the west coast, and a narrow coastal plain on the east.
Malaysia has a wealth of flora and fauna, and 68% of the country remains rain forest. In contrast to this Kuala Lumpur is a modern, bustling city with well over a million residents. There is much to attract the visitor including palm tree-lined white beaches, coral-filled water and amazing marine life.
Few tourists make it to Sarawak and Sabah, on the island of east Malaysia, with their spectacular wildlife, long houses and the largest peak in southeast Asia, Mount Kinabulu. Visit and you will be happy you did.
There is much to discover in this interesting and diverse country.
The Weather and Best Time to Visit
Malaysia’s climate is typical of countries sitting around the Equator, with high temperatures and some months showing particularly high levels of rainfall. Kuala Lumpur is hot and humid all the time which makes it great for visiting year round.
You can enjoy the fantastic beaches all year round, with temperatures only falling to around 20°C while they can rise to comfortably above 30°C. Temperatures are considerably cooler at higher elevations, with highs of around 25°C and lows of 15°C.
Beach holidays are possible 12 months a year due to there being separate rainy seasons for the east and west coasts. The rainy season in the west is between April and October, with brief thunderstorms in the afternoon offering just brief interludes between glorious sunny spells.
The east coast on the other hand has a far more intense rainy season between November and February. During this time it is highly recommended to explore the west coast of the country, with many resorts in the east choosing to close during this period.
Getting to Malaysia
Flights to Malaysia are not the cheapest thing you’ll ever buy, however, it’s crucial that you don’t impulse buy your plane tickets on your laptop when you’ve got wanderlust one evening. Especially if you’re planning a longer trip somewhere; timing is essential. You’ll need to figure the average cost of travel at various times of the year, and think about the month that you think will be best to go.
There are an array of websites that will scan the best deals on your chosen flights, I recommend Skyscanner, and when you feel a reasonable price has come through; then is the best time to book. You might find that it works out to more affordable to travel across the country a little, to a particular airport; the cost of flights can vary from place to place, so weigh-up your train and bus tickets or your fuel costs to get there.
Once you arrive in Malaysia; you’ll need to figure out the best way to get to your chosen accommodation; hailing a taxi straight from Kuala Lumpur airport can add unnecessary costs to your trip as soon as you arrive, so be savvy and get to know the transport system and explore your options before you get there.
If you are staying for a while; you might want to consider hiring a car, but again; you’ll need to take into account if you’ll have secure parking options near where you’re planning to stay.
Malaysia Tours
One of the best ways to see more of Malaysia is on an organised tour. Browse small group adventure tours with G Adventures or Contiki – both companies offer lots of itineraries showing you the highlights of the country.
Accommodation
It’s vital for an affordable trip to look into your accommodation options in Malaysia before you arrive. There are lots of hotels, hostels and local guest houses, and these are the best accommodation if you’re planning to be there for weeks or months backpacking. Find the best deals on hotels on Booking.com. It is worth checking out Airbnb too depending on your needs and budget.
Best Things to Do
Malaysia is a beautiful, diverse country where modern skyscrapers such as the iconic Petronas Towers look down on traditional wooden huts and villages. This melting pot of cultures sees bustling cities flanked by lush tropical rainforest that is home to an amazing array of wildlife. Malaysia boasts a wealth of fascinating attractions.
There are many fantastic activities for visitors to Malaysia to enjoy, ranging from cultural walks to meeting some of the world’s most extraordinary animals. Here are some of my recommendations for places to see and unmissable things to do in Malaysia.
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia’s exciting capital city, Kuala Lumpur is a monument to Malaysian determination and ingenuity. It is renowned for its iconic architecture and lofty skyscrapers, the most famous being the Petronas Twin Towers.
See Exotic Wildlife in Borneo
A visit to Borneo wouldn’t be complete without a face to face with its two most iconic creatures. Visit Turtle Island and watch the little guys lay eggs on the secluded beaches or head to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre for close encounters with these lovable jungle beasts, otherwise known as the ‘man of the jungle’.
Sadly, the Orang-utans of Borneo are unfortunately fast dying out, as forest habitat is cleared to make way for plantations of oil palm, paper and timber. There are now only about half the number of orang-utans left in the wild compared with 10 years ago. Do your bit and adopt one of these irresistable animals – check out the WWF website for details on how to do your bit. Finish a trip with a city tour around Sandakan.
Bako National Park
Walk through the Mangroove forest it us amazing to see all the little live going on there and I was amazed with every step I took. And all this in very scenic surroundings.
Cameron Highlands
Another great cure for a leaky heart, is a good cup of tea and some fresh air. The Cameron Highlands in Malaysia could be the perfect remedy to your downhearted days. Rise into the lush centre of Malaysia and sample some of the fine teas and mellow hiking trails. You can even pick up some of the world’s best strawberries. And strawberry milkshakes. Strawberry sweets. Strawberry tea. Even, the rare strawberry flavoured strawberries.
Langkawi
Langkawi is separated from mainland Malaysia by the Malacca Straits and is one of Southeast Asia’s best kept secrets. Most of the island comprises natural vegetation, verdant mountains and hills. Pulau Langkawi is the largest island and the only one inhabited other than Pulau Tuba. The other nearby islands are Pulau Gasing and Pulau Pasir. Teeming with mystery, legends, culture and an abundance of scenic vistas, a Langkawi holiday is the perfect getaway for backpackers or families looking for a relaxing break.
Pangkor
For centuries, Pangkor has enchanted visitors with its variety of flora and fauna, beautiful white sand beaches, azure blue waters, jungle treks, canoeing, gastronomical delights, jet skiing, snorkelling and of course the wonderful tropical fruits.
Penang
Penang is one of Malaysia’s most beautiful beach destinations. The island of Penang is home to immaculate beaches and is rich in history and culture. It boasts of some amazing beach resorts, sleepy fishing villages and of course the historic Georgetown now listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Enjoy a range of cuisine from delicious street food to fine dining restaurants.
Explore the World’s Largest Cave
The largest cave chamber in the world is in the Sarawak Chamber in Gunung Mulu National Park. It can easily accommodate a Jumbo Jet. This is a unique and unmissable adventure on your visit to Malaysia!
Best Beaches
Malaysia’s beaches are ranked among the finest in the world. It is a fabulous location for world-class diving, snorkelling, sunbathing and romantic getaways.
With its earthy and serene atmosphere, Tanjung Rhu in the resort of Langkawi is a must for any dedicated beach goer. Surrounded by ancient limestone caves, rippling waterways, dense mangroves with an awe inspiring view atop Gunung Mat Cincang, one of the highest mountains on the island of Langkawi, Tanjung Rhu is a favourite of many tourists.
On the north coast of the island of Borneo, you have the state of Sabah, known for its unique culture and history but also home to some of the most secluded and exotic beaches in the world. Take a speedboat ride to the Pulau Kapalai and enjoy some of the greatest diving spots on the planet. Situated between the island of Mabul and Sipadan, Pulau Kapalai is home to some of the most beautiful and rare aquatic life in the world.
To the west of Malaysia, lies the beautiful island of Pangkor. Just a few miles from Pangkor town itself lies the magnificent Pantai Pasir Bogak, with its shallow and crystal clear waters, Pantai Pasir Bogak really is a tropical oasis with plenty of opportunity to let your wild side out with the various water sports activities on offer including jet skiing, snorkelling and canoe rental. Why not whet your appetite by sampling some of the aromatic local cuisine?
Malaysia Travel Tips
Research, Research Research
Malaysia is bursting with day trips, historical and cultural sights, museums and tours, and theme parks and outdoor activities, which is why so many choose to visit the vibrant and exciting country in the first place. Therefore, plan out your must-see activities beforehand, and factor them into your time there and your budget so that you’re not at risk of overspending on a whim.
Fortunately, there are plenty of day trips and tours out to rural and historic sites, that won’t cost you much at all; you’ll just need to arrange transport and what you’re going to eat and drink once you’re there. For some great ideas on where to go and what to see in Malaysia, begin writing your travel itinerary, which is totally the fun part, ASAP.
Above all, have fun and take the stress out of your escape by preparing, planning, and budgeting ahead so that you have an adventure to remember for the years ahead.
Food and Drink
Affordable, authentic, and local cuisine can be found in the best spots to eat Laksa, some Malaysian seafood, or chicken and rice which will all fill you up and give you a taste of the region. With influences from across Asia; there’ll be something to satisfy every palette, and part of the fun of a longer stay somewhere is discovering your favourite things and places to eat.
You can grab a spicy Indian inspired dish like roti and murtabak, or surprise your sweet tooth with a Milo dinosaur in a cafe; not one for those watching their calorie intake (you’re holiday, it’s fine). Tuck into some Nasi Kandar – steamed rice (plain or mildly flavoured) and served with a variety of curries and side dishes. Sold just about everywhere – it’s the Malaysian’s favourite food. Definitely avoid the birds nest soup.
People
The people of Malaysia are so welcoming. My best memory was Christmas Eve on the streets of Kuala Lumpur and jumping in and out of the bars and cafés of Bangsar. I drank cold beer and colourful cocktails. When midnight struck the place went ballistic! Everyone hugged, kissed, danced and sang with all the locals. What a night!
Plan a Trip to Malaysia
One of the great things about Malaysia for your next escape is that it offers everything from the hustle and bustle of big cities to humble and rural villages and unique cultural finds.
For the duration of your adventure, you’ll have plenty to choose from, and could even switch it up midpoint, or a few times throughout your travels.
Discover the beautiful diversity of Malaysia for yourself and let me know how you get on.