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Malaysia Travel Guide

Discover the destination Culture and Discovery

The 5 reasons to go to Malaysia

Set off on a Malaysian adventure and tour one of the most surprising countries in Southeast Asia. An exotic feel, loads to discover, mile upon mile of primary jungle...just some of the ingredients for an unforgettable holiday.

1
Get to sample all of Asia's cooking styles.
2
Visit a country that's avoided mass tourism
3
Discover a multicultural society.
4
Dive into the depths with tropical fish on one of country's idyllic islands.
5
Head into the jungle

1. Get to sample all of Asia's cooking styles.

Malaysian cuisine is a subtle combination of Chinese, Indian and Malaysian flavours; it's tasty and uses age old recipes. Being on the Spice Route, the country's food is spicy and perfumed. Chilli is an ingredient commonly used in dishes such as sambals or currys. Certain specialities including beef rendang, roast canai and asam laksa have made Malaysian cuisine popular the world over. 'Hawkers' (street side food stalls) are everywhere and visitors can enjoy a wide range of unusual dishes.

2. Visit a country that's avoided mass tourism

When we think of Southeast Asia, it's often Thailand, Cambodia or Indonesia that spring to mind. Which is why Malaysia is not always on the tourist trail and remains less well known than its neighbours. Nonetheless this country has a lot to offer travellers who are curious, want to avoid mass tourism and enjoy activities that bring them closer to the local population. Depending on the season, travellers can quickly find themselves alone and plunged into local life - a unique holiday guaranteed.

3. Discover a multicultural society.

Malaysian society is rich and contrasting. This cultural diversity makes it stand out from other Southeast Asian countries. Malaysians, Indians and Chinese make up the majority of the population. Over the centuries, Malaysia has absorbed different cultural influences which can be seen in its religious and architectural heritage. Visitors invariably fall for Malaysia's charm, with its Rajahs' palaces and the immense Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang.

4. Dive into the depths with tropical fish on one of country's idyllic islands.

It has to be said that Malaysia's islands are nothing like those of Thailand or Indonesia. They all differ greatly. On the east coast you'll find heavenly archipelagos such as Perhentian, Tioman or Seribuat, with their calm waters, perfect for snorkelling. On the west coast, you'll have a hard time deciding between Pangkor, with jungles that overlook its beaches, Penang island one of Asia's most enchanting destinations or Langkawi, the country's biggest island.

5. Head into the jungle

The Malaysian jungle is one the oldest in the world and covers almost three quarters of the territory. The country boats numerous national parks that are the largest in the region. So nature lovers are certainly spoiled for choice! You can go searching for rafflesias, the world's biggest flower, in the Cameron Highlands or head out on a trek through the Taman Negara National Park. Spot giant monkeys on the island of Borneo or spend a night in a traditional house in the Kelabit Highlands.

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Why go to Malaysia?

Are you still hesitating? Is a trip to Malaysia made for you? Find out what we think in this article. Let's go!

We advise you if...

You love Islamic art. The museum in Kuala Lumpur is exceptional.
You enjoy Indian and Chinese food as much as you enjoy Indonesian food.
You want to discover a country that is a melting pot of different ethnicities.
You are as attracted by the beaches on idyllic islands (such as Langkawi) as you are by the jungle in the national parks (Taman Negara) or the big cities like Kuala Lumpur.
You want to meet the monkeys on Borneo.
You want to drift from a mosque to a Buddhist temple, before having a time of reflection in a Hindu temple.
You want to try the experience of shopping in a luxury shopping centre.
You have a limited budget.

When to go in Malaysia?

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You can go to Malaysia all year long because the rainy season is not particularly marked. However, there is a more pronounced monsoon period in the east of the country between November and January. And, if you can, you should avoid July and August when there are lots of tourists.

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What to see in Malaysia?

Top places to discover.

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Prepare your departure to Malaysia

A few ideas and some practical advice to help you prepare a stay in exotic Malaysia.

What documents do you need to travel to Malaysia?

For a stay of less than 3 months in Malaysia, Europeans and Canadians do not need a visa. You just need to present a passport with a validity of at least six months. Be careful, because Malaysian authorities will verify this validity to the exact day. If you are even one day short you may be escorted to the border.

Health advise

Malaysia is one of the many countries affected by avian flu. To avoid contamination, do not eat raw or undercooked foods, wash your hands as often as possible and always before meals.

Several diseases such as dengue fever and malaria can be transmitted by mosquitoes or insect bites. Protect yourself with an insect repellent and wear long clothing if possible. To prevent malaria, it is necessary to follow a treatment before, during and after your stay in Malaysia.

Be sure that your DTP vaccination is up to date before your departure.

For more information, see the Pasteur Institute website, or foreign travel advice at gov.uk.

Language

Malay is the official language, but many other languages are spoken in Malaysia, including English, Chinese, Tamil or several native languages.

Time difference

The time in Malaysia is 7 hours (or 8 hours in winter) ahead of the UK. When it is 12 p.m. in London, it is 7 or 8 p.m. in Malaysia.

Phone and internet connection

The Malaysia country code is +60. There are many telephone boxes in the country and the first few minutes are even free. You will then need change to continue your communication or a card, depending on the box.

There is a growing number of hotels, bars and cafes which have Wi-Fi or at least an internet connection.