Destination overview

Malaysia is a bubbling, bustling melting-pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. The multiculturalism of Malaysia has made it a gastronomical paradise and home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that the local people love celebrating and socialising. These warm and friendly people are relaxed and welcoming and you’ll find a holiday here will simply delight you as there is so much to see and do.

Geographically, Malaysia is almost as diverse as its culture. Eleven states and two federal territories (Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya) form Peninsular Malaysia which is separated by the South China Sea from East Malaysia which includes the two states, Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo, and a third federal territory, the island of Labuan.

One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts which further add to the theme of diversity. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts while five-star hotels sit just metres away from ancient reefs.

Rugged mountains reach dramatically for the sky while their rainforest-clad slopes sweep down to floodplains teeming with forest life. Cool highland hideaways roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.

Malaysia is an uncomplicated country to visit and a fascinating land awaits visitors with a desire to experience Asia. The city has an excellent transport system enabling visitors to move around easily. If you’re staying in Kuala Lumpur, you should consider the following superb destination options. Almost equidistant between the island of Penang and Kuala Lumpur on the Straits of Malacca is Lumut a delightful spot for a relaxing getaway. Take a trip to Pangkor Island, famous for its satay, fish and snorkelling or enjoy a sunset cruise. There are interesting handcraft shops to explore and an 18-hole championship golf course to play. Kuantan, located on the South China Sea, is renowned for its pristine beaches. There's no shortage of golf, water sports, hiking, interesting local shopping and good cuisine in this popular area.

From the beautiful glass skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur to the wild heights of Taman Negara you’ll be enchanted by this easy-going country. The people are happy, the land is fertile and the temperature rarely drops below 20° Celsius). If the humidity gets to you, take a dip in the ocean or visit the cool hill stations. Alternatively, take the lift up to the viewing deck on one of the world’s tallest buildings. Actually, despite the plethora of gleaming towers, Kuala Lumpur (KL) still retains much of its original character. When you’re around the lovely colonial buildings in the centre, the vibrant night markets of Chinatown or active Little India, you would be excused for forgetting you were in a wealthy and modern city.

The best store shopping is in the megaplexes of Jln Bukit Bintang. Otherwise there are plenty of markets, including the Central Market in its Art Deco building. Remember to bargain – it’s expected. Thean Hou Temple and Masjid Jamek are beautiful. The Lake Gardens offer verdant relief from the buildings and crowds and families love the giant water parks just out of town. And you can always take a walk along wooden bridges strung high in the tree canopy at the jungle park.

Just north of the city is the eminent limestone outcrop that house Batu Caves. You have to climb 272 steps to get there, but many believe it’s worth it – even if only to see the monkeys scaling the vertical cliff faces. Also go to Templer Park’s caves if you like exploring. If not, there is no shortage of golf courses. Ipoh, a quiet town surrounded by hills, is famed for its tasty hawker food. It’s said that people drive here just to savour its delectable taste sensations.

It is certainly a place made quaint by old colonial bungalows and Straits Chinese architecture like the white stucco Hong Kong Bank. There are also a number of little islands that you should try and visit. Pangkor, opposite Lumut, has charming fishing villages, excellent diving and great beaches. The best ones are Pasir Bogak and Teluk Nipah. If you go at the right time of year, you can see turtles laying eggs in Teluk Ketapang.

Penang is much more developed, though it still has a lot of dense jungle. Georgetown, which manages to retain some of its appealing colonial atmosphere, is the place for shopping and great food (a mix of Chinese, Indian and classic Malay). The beautiful Buddhist Kek Lok Si Temple, cooling breezes and spectacular views of Penang Hill are all must-dos as well.

Batu Feringgi is the most popular beach and the open-air bazaar that happens around sunset buzzes with life. It’s a good place for craft work and souvenirs. You can even watch some of them being made. Much smaller is Langkawi Island further north, which is famed for its beaches, including secluded Pantai Kok and Pantai Cenang, framed by coconut palms and casuarinas. Burau Bay, with its vistas across to Thailand, is home to a top golf course edged by rainforest. Winner of countless tourism awards, Redang Island lies on the eastern side of Malaysia. Go to it for brilliant beaches and, thanks to a marine reserve, even better diving. Its waters are so crystal clear they have to be seen to be believed.

Considerably bigger and more developed is Tioman Island. With soaring peaks and verdant jungle, like Redang, its flora and fauna have often featured in National Geographic documentaries. The beaches are brilliant expanses of white sand, the water sparkles and the snorkelling and diving are superb.

For the perfect holiday full of surprises, don’t put off a trip to Malaysia. A world of fun, pleasure, good food and fabulous attractions are waiting for you.