Here's why you need to visit Malaysia now...
Catch stunning cityscapes from the Petronas twin towers, Kuala Lumpur's highest building
It was the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004, but remains the tallest twin towers in the world.
Shop till you drop around Kuala Lumpur
If you’re a self-confessed shopaholic, you’ve come to the right place. Kuala Lumpur has over 10 MAJOR shopping malls located in all different areas and is ranked one of the best shopping cities in the world.
Big brands are located in malls (Pavillion, Berjaya, Suria KLCC etc). But if you’re into picking up local souvenirs, cheap jewellery, handicrafts, art etc, we’d suggest heading to Chinatown and walking through Petaling street and Central Market – about a 5-minute walk from one to the other.
Visit Langkawi, an archipelago made up of 104 islands
Ultimate beachy vibes over here as you’re surrounded by 50 shades of turquoise sea. The shorelines of Langkawi are decorated with coconut trees and sandy beaches, offering plenty of snorkelling opps. The Langkawi sky bridge (125 metres long across the jungle) is worth checking out too. But first, face your fear of heights (if any) as it takes you up 708 metres above sea level on the steepest cable car ride in the world.
Once adventures have fuelled you for the day, it’s time to relax and set sail on a boat (complete with nets, because #travelgoals much) and watch the sunset as you marvel over the breathtaking islands littered across Langkawi.
Cool street art in George Town, Penang
Penang oozes fascinating culture, boasting some of the best street art, eats and colonial architecture in Asia. Imagine trishaws (a combination of a tricycle & a rickshaw) cycling past through multicultural George Town (main city of Penang) and seeing murals of all kinds along the side-streets. Artist Ernest Zacharevic has created some of the most popular interactive artworks depicting everyday Malaysian life & using locals as the models. See below…
Also related: 16 Magical Spots In Malaysia To Escape The Chaos Of Kuala Lumpur
Indulge in tasty Street food, hawker style
Welcome to street food heaven. Hawker style eats is another way of saying ‘food markets’ in an open-air setting. The food is relatively inexpensive and the best way to taste the local dishes.
One of the best hawker stalls in Malaysia is located at Lg Baru in George Town, Penang. Treat yourself to some local delicacies; Otak Otak (steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves), chicken satay skewers, Roti (flatbread), Mee Goreng (fried noodle), Char Koey Teow (flat rice noodles with shrimp, bean sprouts, egg & sweet Chinese sausage), Teh Tarik and es cendol. You’ll never go hungry in Malaysia, trust us.
You can try durian, 'The King of Fruit' a.k.a the world's smelliest fruit
This native fruit is well known for its distinctive smell, yellow coloured flesh and spiky exterior. Although Durian can be found in a few countries throughout South East Asia, if you’re game enough to try this peculiar fruit for the first time, Malaysia’s the place!
Visit a tea plantation in the Cameron Highlands
Fancy a cuppa tea? The Cameron Highlands is located 1500 metres above sea level and is Malaysia’s largest hill station area, offering plenty of greenery, tea plantations and if you’re as obsessed about tea as we are, the tea making process is rather fascinating. Soak up the fresh air, explore rainforests and don’t forget to indulge in a cuppa tea & scones.
Explore Malacca, a UNESCO world heritage listed city
It was one of the most important international trading ports in Asia with over 600 years of history to its name, making Malacca Malaysia’s most historical city. The notably colourful buildings were heavily influenced by the British, Dutch and Portuguese – hence the colonial charms & quirks.
See an Orangutan in its natural habitat
Over 75 orangutans roam free within the Sepilok rehabilitation centre, Malaysia’s largest orangutan sanctuary. This 43 square kilometre reserve was founded in 1964 with the aim of returning orphaned, injured or displaced orangutans into the wild.
Ready to explore the wonderful world of Asia? Trips to Asia for 2017 are out now!
Disclaimer: Main Image was provided by Walt Loveridge