Malaysia is a nation characterised by intriguing contrasts. It is a complex combination of various cultures, diverse landscapes and architectural styles. Chinese joss houses, Hindu temples and gold-domed mosques exist alongside state-of-the-art skyscrapers and contemporary business complexes. The land itself is divided into two parts by the South China Sea. Peninsula Malaysia (West Malaysia) boasts vast bustling cities, stately colonial architecture, misty tea plantations and tranquil islands. Malaysian Borneo (East Malaysia) features lush jungles brimming with exotic animal and plant life, towering granite peaks and even some remote indigenous tribes. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a range of adventurous activities including hiking through some of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests, scuba diving in some of the world’s most renowned dive sites, or white water rafting in one of the nation’s numerous exquisite national parks. Alternatively spend your days exploring the supercharged capital, Kuala Lumpur, with its pockets of rainforest interspersed between towering high rise buildings or simply relax under palm tree-lined beached.
The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is situated at the heart of the Selangor State. In this slick and bustling metropolis, skyscrapers dominate the skyline and on the buzzing streets below you will find some of Malaysia’s tastiest street food. Expect a vibrant mix of Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisine, with stalls dishing out some of the city’s finest food around the clock. Hit Bukit Bintang, the city’s version of Times Square, for some retail therapy or head to the iconic Petronas Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world and attempt a stroll across the suspended sky bridge. Visit the historic monuments, stroll through the lush parks and enjoy Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant nightlife. Nature lovers will delight in a visit to the enthralling, sacred and ancient Batu Caves, as well as the glorious KLCC Park, a spectacular green oasis.
Penang Island, off the northwestern coast of Malaysia, offers a heady blend of diverse cultures, pristine tropical beaches and rich history. Add that to its status as one of Malaysia’s foodie capitals and you have an irresistible travel destination. A key port since it was ceded to the British East India Company in 1786, Penang’s position at the opening of the Strait of Malacca has made it an important anchorage for passing trade ships. The island’s diverse historical influences are nowhere better encapsulated than in the capital George Town, with its array of beautiful old buildings, ranging from colonial mansions and clocktowers, to Chinese temples and Islamic mosques.
Officially known as ‘Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah’, and for good reason, the 104 islands that make up the exquisite archipelago of Langkawi hide a treasure trove of delight. Located in the south of the Andaman Sea on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, this island paradise offers an abundance of golden sand beaches lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters, which teem with an array of exotic marine life. While the region’s world-class dive sites attract scuba divers and snorkelers keen to explore this underwater wonderland, the picturesque terraced paddy fields, jungle-clad hills, majestic waterfalls, and gorgeous mangroves provide ideal playgrounds for outdoor activities. The real drawcard is undoubtedly the area’s spectacular untouched natural beauty. Langkawi’s simple tourism slogan seems to sum it up perfectly - ‘Naturally Langkawi’.
