Wildlife
The orangutan rehabilitation centre at Sepilok (Malaysian Borneo), the endangered Malayan tigers of Taman Negara National Park and the colourful marine life of Sipadan’s top diving spots.

Mount Kinabalu
Climbing to the summit of Mount Kinabalu presents a breathtaking (literally) challenge for the active hiker at an elevation of 4,095 metres. You are rewarded, of course, with spectacular views from the top.

Kuala Lumpur
The hustle and bustle of KL offers great nightlife, incredible shopping and an array of delicious dining experiences, from vibrant street food to fine dining.

Penang
There is so much to explore on the island of Penang, with its exotic blend of cultural traditions, colonial history and modern twists. George Town offers British Colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, mosques and more.

Malacca
A great day trip from Kuala Lumpur, Malacca City was once a fishing village but is now an historical hub and UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the city’s historical centre with a walk through Chinatown.

Borneo is one of Southeast Asia’s few summer destinations as the best time to travel is between March and October. The wet season is traditionally from November to February, but the climate in this part of Asia can be very unpredictable so it is best to accept the possibility of rain at any time. By their very nature, rainforest areas have a wet climate and are hot and humid for most of the year.

Malaysia, a fantastic country where modernity meets tradition, offers a variety of experiences for every traveller.

My Malaysian adventure began in the vibrant city of Penang. As a lover of art and food – George Town had me captivated with all the colourful street art and delicious foods on offer from hawker stalls. I spent my days wandering through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, taking in the mix of colonial architecture and traditional Chinese shophouses. The food scene in Penang was truly extraordinary – especially the hawker food. I indulged in countless bowls of laksa and many servings of char kway teow from the bustling hawker centres. The blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences created a culinary paradise that left me constantly craving more.

After a few days in Penang, I hopped on a short flight to Langkawi. The contrast was immediate – gone were the bustling streets, replaced by pristine beaches and lush rainforests. Where Penang had history, art and food, Langkawi offered the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Mornings were spent lounging on Pantai Cenang’s white sand beaches and afternoons exploring the island’s natural wonders. The highlight was undoubtedly the cable car up to the Langkawi Sky Bridge – a 125m curved bridge, suspended 660 metres above sea level which offered breathtaking panoramic views of the archipelago.

Penang and Langkawi are a great combination when visiting Malaysia as they perfectly complemented each other. Penang with its culture, history and incredible street food, then Langkawi which provided the tropical escape I needed to recharge afterwards.

Ruby

Currency Malaysian ringgit

Language Due to the diversity of cultures that exist within Malaysia, there are many different languages spoken across the country. Nevertheless, Bahasa Malaysia Malay is the most widespread and native language of the country. English is taught in schools and is efficiently spoken by many locals. In addition, Chinese dialects, Arabic, Portuguese and even some Thai areas are found throughout Malaysia.

Why we love it Travellers will adore the great variety in Malaysia’s cuisine, which can be found in just about every city and town with a variety of local delicacies. We love the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia’s most extensive hill station, with a collection of peaceful townships perched 1500 meters high on a nest of serene mountains. Cooling resorts, tea plantations and strawberry farms sprawl lazily across lush valleys and meandering hillslopes.

Weather Borneo is one of Southeast Asia’s few summer destinations as the best time to travel is between March and October. The wet season is traditionally from November to February, but the climate in this part of Asia can be very unpredictable so it is best to accept the possibility of rain at any time. By their very nature, rainforest areas have a wet climate and are hot and humid for most of the year.

Social customs and quirks Malaysia is a multi-cultural society. The main ethnic groups are the native Malays as well as large populations of Chinese, and Indians. When visiting the country it is clear that the ethnicities retain their religions, customs and way of life. Handshakes are commonly used as part of the introductions in Malaysia, although in some instances the handshake may only be exchanged with members of the same gender.  Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, and this fact should be taken deeply into consideration when choosing which clothes to wear when going around. It is advisable to wear conservative clothing especially in rural areas, or when planning to enter a mosque or other places of worship. Ladies are advised to wear loose and long pants or skirts, and long-sleeved shirts especially when entering places of worship.

Festivals and events  Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix attracts thousands of spectators to Kuala Lumpur every March, the Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix is one of the best races on the world circuit. The event is held at the Sepang International Circuit to the south of the capital.

Health* The government of Malaysia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever.

Notes *Please be aware that Health information is subject to change at any time and you should always double check these requirements at the time of booking and before travel.