Malaysia
There are two sides to the kaleidoscope of cultures that is Malaysia: the uncharted jungle of Malaysian Borneo is home to amusing monkeys and wild orangutans, along with some of the world’s finest diving spots, whereas mainland Malaysia is marked by lively cities – not least the surprisingly futuristic capital of Kuala Lumpur – along with colonial architecture, lush forests and tea plantations, and calm islands not far off the coast.
Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is a true oriental pearl and the capital of Sabah, a state in Malaysia. Surrounded by spectacular waters, mountains and ancient rainforest, this is truly the gateway to Borneo, with a vibrant city life that will surely captivate you.
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur (or “KL,” as the locals say) is the capital of Malaysia, and – according to a recent study – the second-friendliest city in the world as of 2019. The days when it all began as mud flats and tin deposits (in the 1850s) seem unimaginable compared to its current state. Today, Kuala Lumpur is the International Garden City of Lights where shoppers are spoiled for choice. Gastronomy connoisseurs broaden their palates, party animals find sanctuaries, and nature-lovers are wowed.
Langkawi
From a backwater peripheral district, Langkawi has now become a major touristic destination, attracting visitors from all over the world thanks to its pristine tropical beaches and natural attractions. In 2008 the archipelago was renamed to ‘Langkawi Permata Kedah’, which literally means ‘Langkawi, the jewel of Kedah’ – an appropriate name, given that Langkawi truly is a jewel, a tropical paradise that begs to be explored.
Penang
Although it is Malaysia’s smallest state, Penang island (Pulau Pinang) is one of Asia’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan destinations, combining the influences of half a dozen cultures. Within sight of the west coast of the Malaysian peninsula – and linked to it by road bridges – the island is the birthplace of tourism in Malaysia: with great beaches, a mellow climate, a colourful collection of attractions, and several of them claim to be the largest, tallest, longest or oldest of their kind.