Malaysia Travel Guide

Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in South-East Asia. Malaysia is a country with two distinct parts. Peninsula Malaysia constitutes the long fringe of land, extending down from Asia, that borders Thailand and Singapore. The South China Sea separates the mainland from the less populated East Malaysian provinces of Sabah and Sarawak. The dense jungles of Sabah and Sarawak support abundant plant and wildlife and Mt Kinabalu in Sabah stakes its claim as the highest peak in South East Asia.

The country's capital city of Kuala Lumpur is located on the West Coast and is the ideal starting point to the rest of Malaysia. The city, best known by its acronym "KL", is bustling with activity and holds many pleasant surprises for visitors, be it shopping, sightseeing or relaxation.

When you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of KL, you can head for the hills, or more precisely, Cameron Highlands or Fraser's Hill. Both were developed as by the British as retreats during the colonial era, and have maintained their charm as a cool and relaxing getaway. Alternatively, you can take a break to Langkawi Island, visit historic Melaka (once called "Malacca") or Penang (also dubbed the Pearl of the Orient). Both Melaka and Penang are rich in culture and history, being the sites where the Portuguese and British first set a foothold on ancient Malaya. All the major towns and cities are easily accessible by expressways and roads.

If you are the adventurous type, your destination should be Sarawak or Sabah (in East Malaysia), with their spectacular wildlife, native longhouses, the awe-inspiring Mulu caves and Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia. The mountain offers a spectacular view of the sunrise to visitors who are game enough to make the trek. Pulau Sipadan offers some of the best scuba diving in the world.

Travel to Malaysia: