
| Malaysia
- Magical & Mystical |
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Stretching in a delightfully interesting, amazingly colourful string of islands and
mainland, Malaysia is one of South East Asia's most delightful destinations. This is a
wonderful country- a country where the cities are happening, the beaches golden and the
seas blue. It's where the food's delectable, the people friendly and the forests throbbing
with life. It's a country with pleasant surprises awaiting you at every corner.
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Exotic, beautiful and utterly addictive, Malaysia
has plenty to offer the avid traveller, whether it's a historic fort, a luxurious beach
resort, or an ancient temple. Begin with a tour of the capital, Kuala Lumpur,
home to the world's tallest buildings, the Petronas Towers- as well as other interesting
sights, including the Lake Gardens and the splendid Museum of Islamic Art. From Kuala
Lumpur, wander onto to the nearby pleasure-paradise, Genting Highlands,
replete with rides, restaurants, hotels and casinos. Take some time to relax in Cameron
Highlands, a pretty little piece of Scotland in the mist-shrouded hills of
Malaysia.
Or go on a round of Malaysia's lovely islands: the `Island of Legends', glorious Langkawi;
diving paradise Sipadan, and the nothing-less-than-perfect Tioman
Island. Swim, sunbathe, surf and snorkel- or, if you've a penchant for culture,
take a ferry out to pretty Penang, a vibrant and intoxicating combination
of China and Malaysia, India and colonial England. Spend a few days in delightfully
charming Melaka, or walk the wild side, through the dense rainforests
of Borneo, Sabah and Sarawak, all of them alive with an
astounding array of creatures which you've probably only heard of.
Go on an adventure, discover a land that's certain to enthral you: head for Malaysia!
Making your way here
A number of carriers- including Malaysia Airlines- fly
into the country's major airports, which include those at Kuala Lumpur (Subang and Kuala
Lumpur International Airports), Penang and Langkawi. Other than that, there are road and
rail links to the neighbouring countries of Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia, all of
which are highly recommended: the countryside's a sight for sore eyes.
and getting around
Where you go in Malaysia has a big, big bearing on how
you go. For long-haul journeys, air's the best bet, while for shorter trips, the excellent
KTM (Malaysian Railways) network's a good choice. Other options include ferries (for
instance, for trips to islands like Langkawi and Penang) and buses; and taxis, rented cars
and trishaws for sightseeing within cities. Taxis and rented cars are also available for
longer trips.
A Roof over Your Head
Malaysia's hotels and beach resorts can be as spanking
and posh as any in the world, but if you're watching the ringgits, you'll find loads to
choose from. There are budget hotels, hostels, small inns, resthouses and cabins. If
you're headed out into the wild, you might check out the options for `alternate'
accommodation- including tents and traditional Malay longhouses
a Good Meal, a Great Bargain and
more
Malaysia's multicultural composition ensures that you
won't find yourself with nowhere suitable to eat- although you may well find yourself
spoilt for choice! Choose from a wide range of restaurants, coffee shops, food courts and
eateries serving everything from just-so beefsteak to perfect curry and the freshest
sushi. And yes, don't forget to have a meal at one of the ubiquitous foodstalls
everywhere: the grub's good, and it's cheap.
If you're keen on shopping, Malaysia's even more attractive: the country has periodic
shopping festivals, which are a not-miss! Even otherwise, you'll find plenty to pick up-
batik, pewter, international brands, and more- in malls, stalls and `night markets'
everywhere
and one Last bit of Advice
Wherever you go in Malaysia, it makes sense to take
your time before spending money. Tourists attract touts by the dozen, and if you're not
prepared, you might find yourself paying way above what it's really worth- whether it's
transport, accommodation or a curio. Shop around, and when you've taken a decision,
bargain- it pays.
For detailed information on Malaysia, click
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