Malaysia
Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures form a heady melting pot in Malaysia, mixed up with a dash of Britishness. Kuala Lumpur’s towering metropolis is thrilling and you’ll be blown away by the highlands (Cameron) and islands (Penang & Langkawi).
Malaysia’s stunning natural wonders and its place as a melting pot of Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures make it a truly unique destination. Throughout the length and breadth of this rich and diverse country, these influences are reflected in the landscape, the food, the architecture, the customs and the people.
Malaysia also houses lots of secrets, hosting the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, Taman Negara, and South-East Asia’s highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu. The country’s dive site on the island of Sipadan ranks as one of the world’s top dive walls and Sepilok is the largest orangutan sanctuary in the world. Better known treasures include Malaysia’s celebrated beaches and historic towns.
Those after paradise can find it on the tropical, sun kissed islands of Pangkour Laut and Langkawi off the West coast. Exclusive, privately owned and with its own beach, the Pangkour Laut resort will cater to your every need, whereas the world class Datai on Langkawi allows you to immerse in the mystery of the jungle, falling asleep listening to its bewitching sounds. Big, bold and bustling is Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s modern and fast paced capital. Home to the Petronas Towers, once the world’s highest building, Kuala Lumpur assaults the senses. Explore the night markets, savour street food bursting with flavours and observe the easy mingling of Indian, Malay and Chinese ways of life.
A more leisurely pace can be found on the island of Penang, who’s historic capital Georgetown will delight even the most jaded traveller. Hours can be spent marvelling at the eclectic architecture; family-owned Chinese shop houses sit side by side with colonial buildings and huge religious temples. Penang’s street food is world renowned. Travel to the eastern state of Sabah and hike Mount Kinabalu to Low’s Peak at 4,095 metres to watch the sun rise and mist clear. After the long trek down, rest at luxurious hotels in Sabah’s capital, Kota Kinabalu. A short flight from Kota Kinabalu takes you to Sepilok, a reserve dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned orang-utans.
For more wildlife wonders, escape to Sipadan. Located off the East Coast of Sabah this site is legendary even amongst the most hardened of dive aficionados. Relax in the most tranquil setting whilst swimming alongside hammerhead sharks and sea turtles.
Visitors can expect white-sand beaches, fine snorkelling and diving opportunities, top-class shopping and dining, and unmissable attractions.
