Malaysia travel guide

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is home to a range of spectacular architecture and historical monuments. Skyscrapers tower over this bustling city, and below, you’ll find vibrant nightlife, busy markets and stunning buildings waiting for you to explore. 

Kuala Lumpur is a shopper’s delight, whether that’s in the swanky setting of its many (many) gleaming shopping malls or in the lively and bustling street markets you find in different parts of the city. 

I cannot rave enough about the street food in Kuala Lumpur – take your pick from the authentic, flavour-packed dishes steaming with Malaysian spices. Two words. Roti Canai. 

Pangkor Laut

Ever fancied escaping to your own private island escape? Who hasn’t… Tucked off the west coast of the Malaysian Peninsula, Pangkor Laut is consistently voted as one of the best hotels in Asia. 

More than just a fancy hotel, the private island is home to a diverse array of wildlife, spectacular beaches, a high-end spa and clear waters. Book in for a few days – just don’t blame me when you inevitably don’t want to leave. 

Penang

Penang is a hugely popular holiday destination and a UNESCO-listed site, boasting an abundance of history and rich natural splendour.

Penang was once nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, so it’s no wonder that visitors flock to it every year. It’s the perfect place to lounge on a soft, sand-covered beach or explore some of the local temples. 

George Town

George Town, Penang’s capital, is special enough to warrant a section of its own. With its definitive urban edge and colourful character, I dare you not to fall under its spell. 

One of George Town’s big draws is its stunning colonial architecture – but it’s also carved out a reputation as a thriving street art hub. This city is a comfortable combination of tradition and modernity: you’ll find Chinese temples, mosques and skyscrapers heaped together amidst its maze of streets. 

Half the fun is just taking a few hours to walk around, following the scent of aromatic spices and finding yourself in a lovely cafe or bar to spend a lazy afternoon. 

Langkawi

Away from city life, Langkawi is an island archipelago with a whopping 99 islands. Fringed by the shimmering blue sea, the islands’ interiors boast stunning paddy fields and gorgeous hilltops. 

During your exploration, you can find the Langkawi Sky Bridge, take a ride up and above in a cable car or visit the gorgeous rainforest of Gunung Raya, the highest peak in Langkawi.  Langkawi is also well-known as an international diving hotspot. PADI up and take to the waters to discover its wealth of marine life – just don’t forget your GoPro. 

Sarawak

Sarawak is Malaysia’s rainforest state, and that’s what draws most travellers. Who doesn’t want to see a plethora of wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles and Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower?

A highlight of any visit to Sarawak is its capital city of Kuching. Beyond the nature-centric allure of the region, the town itself brims with history and culture. Visit the Museum of Sarawak for an in-depth look into the country’s past.

Kota Kinabalu

Even if you don’t have a lot of time to spend in Borneo, plan a trip to Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah. Then again, as the gateway to the many things to do in Borneo, you’ll have a hard time not exploring further anyway.

Experience the beauty of the city as you stroll along the Jesselton Point Waterfront, and from here, hop on a ferry to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Don’t skip out on a tour of the Mari Mari Cultural Village or an evening visit to the Masjid Bandaraya mosque. 

Cameron Highlands

If the word ‘enticing’ had only one visual counterpart, it’s Cameron Highlands. A spectacular part of the Malaysian hill country showcasing endless fields of lush green tea plantations. The mountain scenery you’ll find here is beyond comparison.

The number one thing to do? Visit a tea plantation or two. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Aside from indulging in tasting sessions, it’s also a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails extending throughout the area.

Malaysia for Nature Lovers 

10 Days

Kuala Lumpur – Batu Caves – Ipoh – Penang

Combine the best of Malaysia’s cities with the highlights of its many natural hotspots.

City Lovers Trip to Malaysia 

14 Days

Kuala Lumpur – George Town (Penang) – Kota Kinabalu – Miri – Kuching 

Tackle the adventures that await in Malaysia’s epic cities over 14 days.

A First-timers Perfect 10 Days in Malaysia 

10 Days

Malacca – Kuala Lumpur – Cameron Highlands – Penang

Indulge in the highlights of Malaysia on this whirlwind 10-day excursion.

Get the Best of Malaysia 

12 Days

Kuala Lumpur –  Malacca – Cameron Highlands – Penang – Langkawi

Make sure you don’t miss anything that makes Malaysia unique on this 12-day trip.

Taiping

Definitely off the touristy trails that many follow in Malaysia, sitting on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia, Taiping has oodles of local charm. Roam around the central colonial area and finish off at the Taman Tasik Taiping gardens. 

Gua Tempurung

Even among Malaysians, Gua Tempurung is a proper secret spot. Hidden away in Gopeng Perak, it’s the largest limestone cave in West Malaysia. Strike out on a caving tour, or tackle some whitewater rafting or jungle trekking.

Bario

In the Kelabit Highlands lies Bario – a collection of roughly 16 indigenous Kelabit Villages. Courtesy of its remote location and authentic culture, it’s a remarkably immersive experience. If you can, opt to spend a night or two in one of the traditional longhouses.

Bukit Mertajam

Although George Town steals much of the Penang limelight, right across from it, you’ll find Bukit Mertajam. It’s a genuine offbeat town with a striking beauty and plenty to see and do, — hiking in the Cherok Tokun Reserve is an absolute must. 

Dishes to try

Nasi Lemak – Rice cooked in coconut milk with pandan leaves.

Laksa – A rich broth with noodles topped with a variety of condiments.

Mee Kolok – Egg noodles topped with slices of roast pork.

Roti Canai – Flatbread with dahl and curry.

Drinks to try

Kopi-o – Coffee served either hot or cold with condensed milk.

Expect to spend between £50 and £150/ $61 and $180 per day per person in Malaysia on a mid-range basis. Add a minimum of an additional £50  / $61 if for luxury travel.

Average Daily Costs 

• Hotel 
  • Mid-Range – £30 to £100 / $37 to $124
  • Luxury – £100 to £200 / $124 and $63
• Food – £14 and £25 / $17 and $31
• Public Transport – £5 and £10 / $6 and $12
• Attractions – £12 and £18 / $15 and $22
• Tour prices depend on the type of tour and duration

Safety

When it comes to safety, Malaysia is exceptionally safe, even for solo travellers. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare, and the most common crime you may encounter is petty theft.

Health

Although you don’t need any specific vaccinations when visiting Malaysia, it is wise to check in with your doctor to ensure you’re up to date with your standard immunisations.

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Malaysia, but stick to bottled water if you’re heading to more rural areas.

Tipping

In Malaysia, there is no requirement for you to leave an extra tip. Restaurants and bars include a 10% service charge in your bill.  

Tips for travelling

1. Aim to explore as many local markets in Malaysia as possible, but brush up on your haggling skills. 
2. Remember that depending on where you’re going, you must dress appropriately, especially at temples.
3. Avoid public displays of affection as much as possible. Local culture in Malaysia leans towards a more reserved approach.
4. Know the duty-free rules before you start to splurge. Malaysia limits the amount of specific things you can buy, such as alcohol.
5. Don’t be afraid to explore hawker stalls; they often have the best food at the lowest prices.

How to see the best for free

Visiting Malaysia doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and if you include some free tours or trips to spots without an admission fee, you’ll save quite a bit. 

Global attractions such as the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Forest Eco Park are open to roam through at no cost.

Alternative hotspots that you can explore for free include the National Visual Arts Gallery and the Perdana Botanical Gardens.

Packing

Packing for your Malaysia trip? Don’t forget… 

• A sturdy travel backpack to keep all your daily essentials in.
• If you’re heading outdoors, bring along your waterproof hiking trainers.
• Always bring a refillable water bottle regardless of where you go.
• Your power bank to keep your devices charged.
• For the many fantastic hiking trails, remember your hiking boots.

Travel insurance

It’s always a good idea to get the best travel insurance, regardless of where you go. Especially when you travel to Malaysia, where there are endless opportunities for potentially dangerous sports or activities. I cover any possible issue with AXA Travel Insurance.

Suggested guidebooks

• DK Eyewitness Malaysia and Singapore
• Lonely Planet Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei
• Malaysia Pocket Travel Guide

Interesting facts

• Roughly 450,000 people cross the border from Malaysia to Singapore daily, making it one of the busiest land borders in the world.
• It’s forbidden to show women’s armpits in the media.
• The largest roundabout in the world is in Putrajaya.
• The world’s largest hotel, the World First Hotel Genting, is in Malaysia.

Handy phrases

Hello – “Hai”

Yes – “Ya”

No – “Tidak”

Please – “Tolong” 

Thank You – “Terima kasih” 

How Much Is – “Berapa”

Time zone

Malaysia is eight hours ahead of Universal Time (GMT+8), and the country does not observe daylight savings.

Electricity and adapters

Malaysia operates on a 240V 50Hz electricity supply, and you’ll find plug-type G everywhere. Invest in a universal adapter (you can thank me later).