*Collaborative post.
If you’re on the hunt for a new travel destination, look no further than Malaysia. This country in Southeast Asia is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination, and it should feature on every traveler’s bucket list. From stunning cities to gorgeous landscapes to mouthwatering cuisine, there are so many reasons to visit Malaysia on your next international vacation. Here are eight of the best.
The cities
Malaysia is home to some of the most fascinating cities in the world, of which its capital, Kuala Lumpur, is the pinnacle. The city houses some groundbreaking modern architecture, most notably the world-famous Petronas Twin Towers. Formerly the tallest buildings in the world, these towers are connected by a skybridge which is a fantastic spot to view the city’s iconic skyline. You could wander the city streets for hours and never discover all the wonders it has to offer.
The landscapes
For those who love the countryside, Malaysia is the perfect destination, boasting some of the most diverse landscapes of any country in the world. If mountains are your thing, you’ll love Mount Kinabalu, the country’s highest peak. Alternatively, you could spend a day exploring some of Malaysia’s famous limestone caverns. No trip to Malaysia is complete with taking a trip to one of the many islands dotted around the country’s coastline and spending a day swimming in crystal-clear waters and relaxing on pristine beaches. The tea plantations are a particular highlight of Malaysia, and it is well worth taking a guided tour of the Cameron Highlands tea plantation to learn more about the fascinating trade history.
The adventure
Adrenaline junkies will not be disappointed by Malaysia, and no matter what adventure activities you prefer, you will find it here in abundance. There is no end to beautiful hiking trails, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery and explore remote wilderness. The area around Mount Kinabalu is perfect for hiking, with several miles of routes of varying difficulties and elevations. Malaysia is also home to one of the world’s best diving sites – Sipadan Island, just off the coast of Borneo. Here, you will have the chance to spot such diverse marine life as barracudas, sharks, turtles, and parrotfish.
The accommodation
When you visit Malaysia, you will have an endless array of choices of where to stay. If you prefer to live in luxury, you can book a five-star hotel in Kuala Lumpur or, for longer stays, find an apartment for rent in Kuching. For travelers on a budget, there are many more affordable hotels and hostels, which will give you a chance to meet like-minded travelers and save money at the same time. And for an unforgettable stay, consider checking into an eco-resort or glamping site in the middle of the beautiful countryside.
The food
For many travelers, food is an integral part of the cultural experience. Malaysia is a country with an extremely diverse population, and this influence is reflected in its cuisine, which derives from Chinese and Indian origins. Malaysians are passionate about their food, and you will enjoy delectable dishes like beef rendang, nasi remak, and pisang goreng (otherwise known as deep-fried banana!)
The culture
Containing a diverse mix of ethnicities and religions, it’s no wonder that Malaysia has such a vibrant culture and heritage. Each culture is beautifully expressed and represented in cities and regions across the country, most notably in areas of religious worship. The cities and rural landscapes are dotted with beautiful temples, on which you can see the influence of the Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu religions. The iconic Batu Cave Temples, a Hindu shrine to Lord Murugan, are a well-known pilgrimage site and should be an essential item on your travel itinerary.
The wildlife
A large part of the country remains relatively undeveloped, and as a result, it is home to some diverse wildlife that can roam freely without fear. Take a stroll through the Malaysian countryside, and you’ll spot tapir, monkeys, wild boar, and deers, to name just a few. The Taman Negara National Park is the best place to spot wildlife in its natural habit. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of elephants, tigers, rhinos, or orangutans.
The weather
Malaysia sits right on the equator and boasts an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. Yet don’t let this fool you. Malaysian weather is an unforgettable experience, and its unpredictable tropical climate means you will likely experience both high heat and heavy rains. This is all part of the unique experience and makes for a truly memorable adventure.
