Your Complete Malaysia Travel Guide

Do you need a Malaysia travel guide that’s based on real experience? That will give you actual value for your time reading it. Then look no further.

Having spent over a year traversing Malaysia I can confidently say that this entire nation is vastly underrated.

While it certainly attracts tourists, it falls far short of the recognition it genuinely deserves, especially when compared to its neighbouring countries.

I firmly believe this is a major oversight, and I hope
this post can illuminate just a few of Malaysia’s incredible secrets. But before I delve into the details…

Fast Facts

Kuala Lumpur

UTC/GMT +8 hours

The Malaysian ringgit is the currency of Malaysia. It is divided into 100 sen

34,308,525

As of 2023

Is Sabah, Sarawak, and Malaysia the same country? This question may initially seem perplexing, so it’s worth providing some context, as it’s an important aspect of any Malaysian travel guide. The short answer is yes!

However, if you visit all three places, you’ll quickly notice that they are remarkably distinct from one another. So, how can they be considered part of the same country? Let’s take a short journey back in history to shine a light on this conundrum.

After Malaysia gained independence from the British in 1948, a prominent figure in politics named Tunku Abdul Rahman, who was leading the new alliance party, proposed a merger for economic reasons that would include Singapore, Brunei, Sabah, Sarawak, and Malaysia.

In 1955, this proposal was passed into law as all parties had agreed. However, a mere 11 hours later, Brunei decided to withdraw from the merger. Shortly afterwards, Singapore was expelled from the arrangement, leaving Sabah, Sarawak, and Malaysia together as they remain to this day.

Places To Visit In Malaysia

I want you to know that these are simply my genuine recommendations for the best places to visit and where I enjoyed the most on my travels. I really want my Malaysia travel guide to be authentic.

I will be honest and tell you that my list is vastly different from most, but you are getting my genuine opinion. I don’t want to be generic and just spit off those cliche answers. So let us jump right in shall we?

Kualar Lumpur

The obvious place to start in any Malaysia travel guide is Kuala Lumpur. Not only because it is the capital but because for many travellers, their journey to Malaysia typically commences or concludes in Kuala Lumpur. This is actually a fortunate starting point because the city is vibrant and offers something for everyone.

Despite being only a couple of hundred years old, Kuala Lumpur is steeped in history. With its rich blend of cultures, delectable cuisine, and abundant green spaces, the city frequently finds its place on the itineraries of travellers from around the world.

Bako National Park

Bako National Park, located near Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, boasts an impressive variety of wildlife that is remarkably accessible. This makes it an ideal destination for travellers with limited time but a strong desire to witness wildlife in its natural habitat.

There is a good chance you will be able to spot plenty of animals during your time in the National Park as the best place to spot them is strangely around the park’s headquarters.

It is also the perfect place to get back to nature with some soul-charging walks in the rainforest. Perhaps relaxing on a boat as you meander around the vast mangroves that fringe the coast spotting long nose probiscus monkeys and saphire-hued kingfishes is more up your street?

george town penang

Just the mention of Penang evokes thoughts of vibrant exoticism. In truth, the reality surpasses these expectations by landslides. George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem, has the power to captivate you for days on end as you delve into its ancient clan houses and twisted alleyways unravelling the rich history of this incredible locale.

To top it off, you can savour some of the finest cuisine Southeast Asia has to offer at the end of each day. Check out the local markets for the best results. George Town features in many blogs and my Malaysia travel Guide is no different on this one and for a damn good reason. In Fact, have you ever read one that doesn’t? Go check out this place for yourself and let me know what you think.

Pulau Tioman - tioman island

Pulau Tioman rises dramatically from the South China Sea, leaving you in awe of its natural beauty. Cloaked in lush rainforests and framed by sandy beaches, it epitomizes tropical paradise. You can laze away your days in a hammock sipping coconuts or trek in the dense rainforest.

Pulau Tioman is also a focal point for discovering Malaysia’s incredible underwater life. Here you will find a well-oiled diving industry that is quite affordable. In essence, there’s a compelling reason why nearly every reputable Malaysian travel guide showcases this island as well.

kota kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu ranks high on the bucket lists of many tourists, and rightfully so. Rising dramatically from the steamy plains below it is quite a sight. You will see the mountain from many miles away and the road into the park is simply awe-inspiring.

While the walk is hard it is spectacular. As you climb you will pass different kinds of flora giving rise to completely different landscapes and fauna ending in bare wind-swapped rock.

At a towering 4,095 meters, it stands as the tallest mountain in Asia outside of the Himalayas. The ascent and descent will take just two days, rewarding climbers with breathtaking views of the South China Sea.

sungai kinabatangan

The Sungai Kinabatangan offers a truly immersive jungle experience. The floodplains and oxbow lakes stretch out like a captivating gallery.

In most rainforests, much of the wildlife activity occurs high in the canopy, often around the 80-meter mark, beyond the reach of our sight.

However, here, the canopy is comparatively low. What’s more, the river lets you get close to the action with little obstructions providing exceptional opportunities for animal sightings.

For the optimal jungle experience stay in one of the far-flung jungle resorts such as Uncle Tangs or Tanjung Bulut. Staying here is very rewarding as it is a proper insight into the Bornean rainforest. Waking up and going to sleep with nothing but the sounds of the jungle is unforgettable.

places in ipoh

CNN Travel has recently recognized Ipoh as the most underrated town in Asia, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by the limited number of tourists in Ipoh.

It’s conveniently close to Kuala Lumpur and offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s truly inviting.

While I don’t often recommend specific hotels, I must make an exception for The Happy 8. If you decide to explore this town, staying there will undoubtedly enhance your experience. It’s like staying in a massive piece of artwork. I encourage you to check out their website to see what I mean.

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Niah Caves

Niah Caves is probably my favourite place in Malaysia and yet it is blissfully empty as most tourists favour its infinitely more famous neighbouring tourist draws such a Gunang Mulu National Park. While Gunung Mulu is undeniably stunning, it can be expensive to visit.

It requires a flight to reach, and accommodations near Gunung Mulu National Park can dent your wallet due to its immense popularity.

On the other hand, Niah Cave National Park offers an exceptionally grand experience. It’s conveniently located just off the main road, and there’s always room for visitors.

Plus, Niah Caves boasts an intriguing history set in pristine primary rainforest so it appeals to a wide range of interests.

Malaysian street food

Malaysia boasts substantial Thai, Chinese, and Indian communities, resulting in a diverse array of dishes available to travellers. There’s no better way to savour Malaysian cuisine than in the local markets.

Malaysian street food offers some of the finest culinary experiences during your travels and is also incredibly budget-friendly.

If you’re keen to try your hand at preparing some of the dishes you’ve been relishing, consider enrolling in a LaZat cooking course in
Kuala Lumpur. Even as an experienced chef with over two decades of work in top
London restaurants, I learned a thing or two from these talented instructors.

If you’re uncertain about what to sample, I recommend checking out these helpful food blogs. It is always helpful to check out more than one Malaysia travel guide to maximise your time and money.

After all, exploring
the flavours of a destination has to be one of the most delightful aspects of your journey.

How much does the average Malaysia trip cost?

That depends on what you will be doing and what you expect. Will you be engaging in organised treks or diving? What level of comfort do you want from travel and accommodation? There is no one answer.

I consider myself a midrange traveller and I currently spend between £40 and £50 a day. You can get by on less but I would advise you not to cut back too far as you will begin to damage your experience. Remember, you can get more money but you can’t get more time.

I think it is best if I offer some tips to help you save money and you can refer to them again and again. These tips can help you make the most of your budget while enjoying the flavours of Malaysia so here goes.

6 Top Tips To Save Money In Malaysia

Here’s where my Malaysia travel guide adds substantial value, as some of these tips may not be readily available elsewhere.

After extensive travels in Malaysia, I believe I can offer practical advice on how to cut costs.

Stay Away From Alcohol

While it might not be what you want to hear, Malaysia is a Muslim country, and the special taxes on alcohol make it super expensive.

Beer is also widely socially unacceptable in the more conservative parts of the country.

If you can give alcohol a miss then please do, especially if money is an issue.

Stay Away From Alcohol

While it might not be what you want to hear, Malaysia is a Muslim country, and the special taxes on alcohol make it super expensive.

Beer is also widely socially unacceptable in the more conservative parts of the country.

If you can give alcohol a miss then please do, especially if money is an issue.

Save money on coffee

While we all appreciate a morning cup of coffee, it’s worth noting that even a latte from Starbucks in Malaysia can cost as much as it does in England. Even a basic coffee from a local shop often exceeds £1.50.

If you’re willing to forgo luxury and opt for 3-in-1 coffee mixes available in supermarkets, you can save a significant amount of money. You can purchase 20 sticks for 8 ringgits, and hot water is readily available from water dispensers in most hotels.

Avoid eating in tourist areas

Tourist-oriented food in Malaysia is often pricier than local fare and may not be as tasty. It’s wise to indulge in the delicious and more affordable options available at local markets.

Even local food in touristy areas can be notably more expensive and may cater to perceived tourist preferences, potentially lacking the authentic flavours you seek. Venture to less touristy spots for a genuine culinary experience.

Doing this can help you make the most of your budget while enjoying the flavours of Malaysia.

It is also often safer to keep it local. The ingredients to make tourist food naturally cost way more than local ingredients and that makes vendors reluctant to throw them away when they spoil. You can see the problem here, right?

Use Taxi apps in Malaysia

When navigating urban areas in Malaysia, consider downloading the Grab app. Malaysians highly favour this app for shorter journeys.

It’s known for its reliability and eliminates the need for price negotiations.

In fact, it can be hard to get a regular taxi in some towns as Grab is so popular. Outside of the major tourist hubs and airports you will almost certainly need these apps in Borneo. Maxim is better for longer journeys as the prices are better.

Keep in mind that in rural areas or when visiting National Parks, you may not have access to these services. In such cases, you’ll need to rely on more traditional transportation methods, but by then, you should have a good understanding of local pricing.

Save money on coffee

Save money on bottled water

Many hotels provide safe-to-drink water dispensers, so it’s a good idea to bring a reusable bottle with you. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also an environmentally friendly choice that reduces plastic waste.

If you’re hesitant about tap water, you can consider using a bottle with a filter. Brands like Brita or Life Straw are trusted, and having a filtered bottle might come in handy in more remote areas of Borneo.

Consider where you are going

While there is a truckload of sumptuous and spectacular destinations in Malaysia, not all are created equally. Nor are they priced equally.

I strongly suggest researching thoroughly and checking for any hidden costs. Also, bear in mind that just because it costs a small fortune does not mean it will be worth it.

Some of my best experiences in Malaysia have been in what is considered the lesser attractions. Obviously, some places are expensive for a very good reason, but it definitely is definitely not always the case.

Malaysian requirements

No Malaysia blog would be worth its salt without covering this. The good news is that currently, all you need is at least 6 months left on your passport and at least one blank page for your visa.

That and don’t turn up with a briefcase full of drugs. The Malaysian government is very reasonable indeed.

When are the best months to visit Malaysia?

It’s essential to understand that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer on when to come here.

The country’s vast size and diverse geography result in a wide range of climates and conditions. Distances are significant, and the location itself makes Malaysia as diverse in climate as it is in culinary offerings.

Check out my in-depth post on when to visit Malaysia. In this travel guide, I provide a month-by-month breakdown of the best times to visit for your needs. This is most definitely a sizable topic that warranted a separate post.

Malaysia travel restrictions

Currently, all you need to enter Malaysia is a passport with a minimum of 6 months validity and at least one blank page for your visa stamp.

Of course, it goes without saying that carrying prohibited substances such as drugs is strictly forbidden, but the Malaysian government generally maintains a reasonable and straightforward entry policy.

If you are taking a Malaysia travel package they will help you with any logistics you are unsure of.

Malaysia travel requirements

No Malaysia travel blog would be worth its salt without covering this. The good news is that currently, all you need is at least 6 months left on your passport and at least one blank page for your visa.

That and don’t turn up with a briefcase full of drugs. The Malaysian government is very reasonable indeed.

Safety in Malaysia

Malaysia, on the whole, is a safe country for visitors. While there have been reports of petty theft and
occasional robberies.

Your overall safety is not a significant concern if you exercise common sense. Don’t walk down dark allies in the middle of the night or trust strangers in the shade. That stuff is not rocket science.

While you can obviously find bad people anywhere you go as a whole Malaysian people are some of the most kind and hospitable people you could ever hope to meet.

One of the most crucial pieces of advice in any Malaysia travel guide is to ensure that you remain on the right side of the law while you travel. Penalties for even minor violations of local laws can have severe consequences.

It’s worth emphasizing that drug-related offences, even involving small amounts, can lead to the death penalty. So, it’s vital to be aware and cautious. It is best to stay well away from all drugs

Malaysia Travel Guide FAQ

How Many Days Are Enough To Explore Malaysia?

Combined, Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak is a very vast landmass so it’s important to be realistic about your expectations. I have travelled in Malaysia for way over a year and I have still only seen the highlights. It is best to plan an area you want to see in-depth rather than try and see the whole thing. Otherwise, you will spend all your time on transport unless you have masses of time to invest.

Is Malaysia open for US tourists?

A fully vaccinated citizen of the US can enter Malaysia restriction-free for up to 90 days. For a full list of visa requirements country by country check out the Malaysian government website.

How To Reach Malaysia

Malaysia is well-connected internationally and there are plenty of cheap flights. Malaysia Airlines is the national airline of the country and they are super comfortable. If you don’t mind sacrificing a little comfort you can utilize Air Asia. They open up most destinations in Southeast Asia for a minimum spend.

In summary of my Malaysia Travel Guide

The tourism slogan Malaysia truly Asia is very accurate as this encapsulates the very essence of the southeast. I know this country is often overlooked by many tourists and that is a crying shame.

Travelling to a place like this will have a lasting effect on you.

as I said before I wanted my Malaysia travel guide to be authentic and heartfelt so I didn’t just want to run through the cheesy tourist destinations like some kind of greatest hits list because I didn’t find all of them good.

In fact, I found Langkawi, The Camron Highlands and Taman Negara to be very underwhelming indeed so I did not cover them but that’s just my opinion.

I firmly believe that Travel is important for personal growth and to find out why I think that feel free to check out my in-depth blog on the subject. Travel here will probably be a highlight of coming to Southeast Asia and you will get a lot out of it on a personal level.

I hope this has helped you improve your Malaysia travel itinerary since that was my genuine aim here.

This has been a pleasure to write and I have covered as much as I can think of in this Malaysia travel guide but there is always more.

Oh and don’t forget to get one of these. The Lonely Planet Malaysia travel guide is indispensable.

I know many of you travel using blogs like mine and while they certainly give a good impression of what to expect it can be hard to find all the maps and travel connections in one place.

A guidebook will help your journey to be more seamless and that’s important since your time is so precious.

My blog is designed to inspire you and sure I try to be as comprehensive as possible. Guidebooks only further your dreams and remember if you have any questions I am here.

I hope you have enjoyed my Malaysia travel guide and if you can think of any way I can improve or you can think of something you want me to write about please let me know. With that, I will see you next time.

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