Malaysia is the best way to experience South East Asia. It is an amalgam of the various Asian identities like Chinese, Indian and Malayan, and presents a happy blend of their customs and cultures. The people are warm, accepting and welcoming. The tourist infrastructure is well developed with a large number of Malaysia hotels and accommodation choices available, the transport system is extensive and efficient, and eating and entertainment options are aplenty.
Malaysia extends over an area of 329,847 kilometres and comprises 13 states and three federal territories. The population of Malaysia is more than 25 million. Kuala Lumpur or KL is its capital, but the federal government operates from Putrajaya.
Malaysia is divided into two regions by the South China Sea - Malaysian Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia. Both the regions have a similar climate and a similar landscape. By virtue of being situated in the equatorial zone, Malaysia has a humid and hot tropical climate for most of the year. The southwest region has its monsoon between May and September, while the northeast region has a monsoon between October and February. The Strait of Malacca situated between the Malaysian Peninsula and Sumatra is one of the most crucial shipping routes of the world and sees traffic of more than 50,000 ships every year. The third highest peak of South East Asia and the tallest in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu (4095 metres) is found here. Tanjong Piai at Johor is the southernmost tip of Asia and is also in Malaysia.
The two regions of Malaysia are linked by regular flights. Peninsular Malaysia attracts the beach buffs, while the eastern part attracts nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Eastern Malaysia also offers the opportunity to see orang-utans in their natural habitat, with a number of Malaysia tours taking visitors to experience the magic of the jungle. No matter where you are there are beautiful sights to see and a number of exciting things to do in Malaysia. Take a look at our Malaysia map to get a feel for the destination.
Malaysia gained independence from British rule in 1957. Much of the infrastructure and architecture still bears the vestiges of British rule. Since 1957, the Malays, the Indians and the Chinese have formed a harmonious yet cosmopolitan society, with a great number of Malaysia accommodation options, great tasting restaurants and trendy shopping spots. It is a tribute to these three races that they have managed to live in unity and present to the world a country that is hospitable, safe and interesting. Malaysians are truly proud of their newly founded independent country.
Thanks to the congregation of so many Asian races in one place, Malaysia gives you an opportunity to experience the whole of Asia without travelling the length and breadth of the continent. For instance, in Kuala Lumpur you can find a lot of India in Little India, savour a variety of Malaysia cuisine including Chinese cuisine in Chinatown and marvel at the architecture of a Muslim mosque. While retaining its Asian identity, Malaysia has also kept pace with the Western world with rapid industrialisation.
Festivals and rituals of all faiths are celebrated throughout the year by all Malaysians irrespective of their religious faith. Islam takes the lead among religions but Hinduism, Christianity, Taoism and Buddhism are also accorded a place of utmost respect and all their festivals, dramas and dances are celebrated with gusto.
KL or Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant urbane tourist destination as well as an important link to various other destinations like Australia. But for those who want a bit of the outdoors, there are beach holidays to suit every pocket, from the backpacker on a shoestring budget, to five star spa resorts in Malaysia which are great hits with honeymooning couples. There are many great activities and tours in Malaysia including diving holidays, holidays with horse riding and golf and cool holidays in the Highland Mountains. For the truly adventurous, there are myriad trekking opportunities to suit both the rookie and the veteran!
Malaysia is endowed with great natural beauty and a rich flora and fauna. The nature enthusiast can take a pick from the century old rainforests, the untamed jungle, the mysterious caves and the unspoilt beaches. With the majestic beauty of Mount Kinabalu and the exotic birds in the Sarawak jungles on the one hand and the delectable street food of Penang and the urban attractions at Kuala Lumpur on the other, Malaysia offers the best of both worlds.
Many tourists come to Malaysia for just a week, but extend their holiday over a fortnight or even a month because food, travel and Malaysia hotels are relatively cheap. Many come back for more and some even celebrate their anniversaries or get married here!
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