Malaysia

Malaysia’s capital city and main international gateway, Kuala Lumpur was founded in the 1980’s and its architecture reflects a cosmopolitan mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European cultures. Kuala Lumpur’s reputation as a business and commercial center is symbolized by the amazing Petronas Twin Towers. The city of Malacca is 2 hours by road from Kuala Lumpur. Malacca remains predominately a Chinese community.

The island of Penang described as “ The Pearl of the Orient” lies just off the northeast coast of peninsular Malaysia. As well as being a beautiful tropical island of palm trees and sandy beaches, it is also the main international gateway to Northern Malaysia. The 3rd largest bridge in the world links Penang to the mainland. One of the most unusual attractions is the Snake Temple.

North of Penang lie the 99 islands, many of which are outcrops of coral that make up Langkawi. The largest Langkawi island is the only one with sophisticated tourist facilities. The island’s many coves and lagoons make it ideal for all kinds of water sports and scuba diving. Unspoilt, seldom visited Pangkor Island about 100 km south of Penang, and half hour by ferry from Lumut. It has recently gained popularity and accommodation facilities have been greatly improved. Pangkor has no air links. Dotted around the mountain’s range that runs down the spine of Malaysia are several hill resorts. All are situated more than 1400 m above sea level and offer cool, pleasant weather after the humidity of the plain and the cities. Less than one hour by road from Kuala Lumpur is Genting Highlands, which boasts Malaysia’s only casino. Facilities include four hotels, golf courses with a magnificent clubhouse, an artificial lake, a health and sports center and indoor swimming pool.

The East coast contains many of the finest beaches including some of the least spoilt in Southern Asia. In effect, the whole east coast is one huge beach backed by jungle. Desaru, Johor’s newest beach resort boasts unspoilt beaches and jungle. All kinds of sports are available and accommodation is in Malaysian style. Sabah and Sarawak can be reached by direct flights from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Sabah, known as “the Land below the Wind” is home of the world’s oldest jungles and one of South East Asia’s highest peaks Mount Kinabalu. The region offers excellent opportunities for expeditions and technical rock climbing. The Mount Kinabalu National Park is famous for containing over 500 species of birds and over 800 species of orchids.