Malaysia is foreigner-friendly, culturally interesting and blessed with Southeast Asia’s exotic beauty. Visitors can expect white-sand beaches, fine snorkeling and diving opportunities, top-class shopping and dining, and unmissable attractions.
Malaysia Travel Guide
The west coast is home to Kuala Lumpur, which is Malaysia’s glittering, cosmopolitan capital. The city abounds with excellent sights and activities, from the lofty Petronas Towers, to the nearby Batu Caves. Kuala Lumpur is also a world-famous shopping destination and a gastronomic delight for the adventurous palate.
East-coast visitors will find several easy-to-reach tropical islands. For it’s part, northern Peninsula Malaysia has many hill resorts, which provide a welcome respite from the heat and humidity of the coasts.
Nature-lovers will not want to miss east Malaysia. The tropical island is rich by way of outdoor and water-sport opportunities, all found in the twin states of Sabah and Sarawak. Tourists should certainly visit Kinabalu National Park. It’s renowned biodiversity has led to it being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sipadan Island has what are widely considered the best diving and snorkeling sites in the world.
Best time to visit Malaysia
Malaysia has a humid tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures all year round. The monsoon season (November to February) brings heavy rain to the peninsular region. The best time to visit is between April and October. Travelers should bear in mind that if they’re suffering in the heat at the coast, the highland region in northern Malaysia is significantly cooler.
What to pack
Tourists should pack lightweight clothing, insect repellent and sunscreen. They should also have a small backpack to carry on day excursions, containing a rain-slicker and plenty of water.
What to buy
Traditional fabric known as batik and carved wooden figurines.
Eat
Sate (slivers of chicken or beef dipped in a spicy peanut sauce), nasi goreng (fried rice), and nasi lemak (coconut rice served with fried anchovies, peanuts and a curry dish).
A final word
From ancient rainforests in well-managed nature reserves to pristine beaches, and from the glamour of Kuala Lumpur to the gastronomic delights of Pengang, a holiday in Malaysia is sure to be spectacular.
DISTANCE FROM AIRPORT TO CITY CENTRE: 58 kilometres
TIME ZONE: GMT +8 hours
CURRENCY: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). ATMs are plentiful, with credit cards widely accepted in major establishments
LANGUAGES: Bahasa Malaysia is the official language but English is widely spoken.
