Malaysia: All Inclusive

Malaysia is an excellent backpacking destination. Backpackers in Malaysia can find a wide range of activities to do; Malaysia is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Malaysia is well known all over the world for its magical exotic beaches. Malaysia is one of the most favourite destinations all over the world. It is a land of unrivalled natural beauty., boasting 4800 km of unhindered coastline. People from all over the world visit the magical beaches and indulge in host of water sports activities as well as sun-and-fun packed adventures.

Other than these exquisite beaches down the coast and peninsula of Eastern Malaysia, the country is also known to be the home of more than one hundred tropical islands. Most of these islands are extremely breathtaking including the islands of Pulau Tioman and Langkawi. Malaysia is an ethnically varied country with rich tradition as well as home to unique natural environments that promote lively backdrop for exciting sailing holidays. No other Asian country offers so much assortment for holidaymakers as Malaysia.

Nowadays, the beaches, islands, coastal estuaries and seas are where Malaysians and tourists relax, recreate and participate in various sea sports. Overall, there are an amazing amount of first-class islands and stretches of coastline, enough to tempt any holidaymaker to take a beach break in Malaysia.

Keep in mind there are two peak seasons in Malaysia, one in winter and another in summer. The peak winter tourist season falls roughly from the beginning of December to the end of January, covering the major winter holidays -- Christmas, New Year's Day, Chinese New Year. Hari Raya Puasa, celebrating the end of Ramadan, shifts dates from year to year. Malaysia is hot and humid year-round. The temperature rarely drops below 20°C, even at night, and usually climbs to 30°C or higher during the day.

Also note that it rains throughout the year. Peninsular Malaysia gets heavier rainfall from September to March, with the east coast bearing the full brunt of the monsoon rains from November to February. Rainfall on the west coast peaks slightly during the May to October monsoon. Malaysian Borneo also gets the northeast and southwest monsoons, but they are less pronounced and rain tends to be variable.
 

A honeymoon in Malaysia ensures a vast selection of interesting experiences for any couple, from the vibrant buzz of Kuala Lumpur to hillside retreats in the beautiful mountains, and beach resorts gracing the tranquil shores. This honeymoon destination is romantic, colourful and intriguing; a good platform from which to establish a new life together. For couples who like a bit of action, Kuala Lumpur won't disappoint - this enticing city is home to quite a few romantic attractions. Stroll hand-in-hand through the Lake Gardens, splash out on a couple of love tokens from Chinatown, or share a dinner of exotic cuisine offered by one of the city's exquisite restaurants.

In Malaysia's main mountain range, hill resorts offer honeymoon couples a quiet, private retreat where the peaceful surroundings are the perfect setting for some lovely quality time. This natural tranquillity is most evident at Fraser's Hill Resort, while the Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands resorts are more upmarket and a bit busier. There are various beach hotels and resorts along the coast for newly-weds to enjoy.

The most popular, luxurious and secluded of these is Pangkor Laut Resort, located on a privately owned island in the Straits of Malacca. The Tanjong Jara and Tioman islands are also stunning honeymoon destinations. Many of these exclusive Malaysian resorts and hotels offer special honeymoon packages to couples, and there is no end to the opulent services and facilities available.

Nightlife in Malaysia includes restaurants, pubs, discotheques, karaoke, lounges, and coffee house of which Kuala Lumpur has a thriving variety. Live bands are popular with most five-star hotels offering bars and discotheques that feature local and foreign bands playing popular music. In Kuala Lumpur you can be amazed by the dazzling nightlife in Kuala Lumpur. Dining out and a night at the pubs or discotheques is normal activity for city residents. There are also concentrated entertainment districts around Kuala Lumpur hotels in areas like Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Sultan Ismail, and Jalan Bukit Bintang. Outside of the city centre, a thriving nightlife area is located in Bangsar Baru. Penang is also an area recommended to holidaymakers looking to party and enjoy the singles life. Most Penang hotels are located at the beach areas have pubs, and discotheques with some fascinating live bands. There are pubs, and discotheques in Georgetown at Lebuh Leith, Lebuh Campbell, Lebuh Gareja, and Pengkalan Weld. Tanjung Bungah, and the Batu Feringhi area are also lively places with pubs and discos. Melaka is also home a highpoint for vibrant nightlife. The South and Light Show, held near the Porta de Santiago, is Melaka's most popular form of public evening entertainment. Melaka Raya is the nighlife district and has several pubs, discotheques, and karaoke bars. Johor Bahru has a thriving nightlife and there is a profusion of restaurants, pubs, discotheques and show lounges. Popular food and entertainment areas are located in Jalan Abu baker, Jalan Skudai, Jalan Meldrum, and Jalan Siew Nam. In short, party on!

Malaysia is a wonderful destination for a couples holiday. Whether it is the fragile beauty of Kuala Lumpur, Sarawak or George Town, or the peace and quite of the beautiful hinterland of Ipoh, Malaysia’s sunshine coast has a multitude of activities for couples to share and enjoy. Tourist areas such as Brunei have become a favourite for locals and visitors alike, with the world-class dining and shopping and, of course, the stunning beaches which made the region famous in the first place. Terengganu, an old favourite, is still a highlight of Malaysia’s holiday destinations, while the stunning scenery across the region are always sure to wow couples on holiday in Malaysia. There is no doubt that a romantic getaway along the Malaysia is sure to delight all, and particularly those who love sun-drenched sights, sounds and activities that can keep you occupied from dawn to dusk, and then some. Be dazzled by some of Malaysia’s most stunning beaches - a sweeping coastline that is a jewel of the country that rank among some of the best in the world. Enjoy fabulous culinary delights - the region is renowned for offering up a culinary plethora of fantastic options for every taste and budget. Couples seeking some adrenaline in their break need not be disappointed either: from surfing and hiking to waterskiing and sailing, Malaysia is packed with activities that are sure to please. And don’t forget to indulge in a little retail therapy - shopping on around Malaysia has some excellent shopping districts that will suit everyone from bargain hunters and souvenir-seekers to some of the most haute-couture fashion victims, especially in Kuala Lumpur. Accommodation on the coast tends to be more resort, hotel and high-rise orientated, while the hinterland offers intimate cottage retreats, hostels and b&bs. Overall, Malaysia offers a huge range of activities and ideas for couples looking for a quick vacation or an extended break, promising fun-filled days and nights that will remain unforgettable.

Malaysia is a golfing heaven with world class golf courses to suit all tastes. Whether you’re thinking of a Malaysia golfing holiday or just a quick round of golf during your vacation, Malaysia is both a golfer’s paradise and simply paradise for a round of golf. There is a wealth of world-renowned course designers who have designed a wide-variety of layouts taking advantage of the mountains, the rain forests and the seashore in their design concepts. Two courses that have attracted attention of late are The Mines Resort and Golf Club, just outside Kuala Lumpur, which hosted the 1999 World Cup featuring Tiger Woods and Mark O’Meara as well as the Women’s World Cup in 2000. In Borneo the Highlands Resort features the magnificent Hornbill Golf and Jungle Club launched by Tiger Woods in 1999. Malaysia is a place where the glorious pleasure of a round of golf is intensified by some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. It doesn’t matter whether you’re playing on a private, club or resort golf course - the views might change but the drama of it will not. Among the golf enthusiasts of the world, Malaysia is still a well kept secret. Many courses though register growing visitor numbers from overseas. It might be slightly off the beaten golf holiday track, but Malaysia.

In Malaysia, sailing is a sport that has gained fast in status. The growing number of marinas and yacht clubs are great signal that Malaysia is absolutely the new and exciting destinations to head for. Malaysia is an ethnically varied country with rich tradition as well as home to unique natural environments that promote lively backdrop for exciting sailing holidays. No other Asian country offers so much assortment for holidaymakers as Malaysia.

Nowadays, the beaches, islands, coastal estuaries and seas are where Malaysians and tourists relax, recreate and participate in various sea sports. Recreational sailing now is getting higher, affordable as well as one of the wonderful ways for visitors to discover the country's islands and wide-ranging coastline. For sailors who have a more judicious taste in sailing and wish to investigate the unexplored waters can hire powerboats and luxury cruisers. While those who like to sail the open waters for several days, can try the cruise liners that drag into several Malaysian ports and islands. Annual major sailing events emphasize Malaysia as an exhilarating boating destination. These include the Raja Muda International Regatta, the Asean Regatta and the Royal Langkawi International Regatta. The marinas and yacht clubs offer venues for sailors and mariners to meet up with like-minded connections and share exciting stories of the high seas. Several sailing packages are available in Malaysia in order to have complete entertainment regarding water sports.

The best time to visit Malaysia can be just any point of time in the whole year but it’s better not to travel to this popular destination of the world in the rainy season between the months of November and January if you actually want to explore the striking beaches of Malaysia. You cannot probably explore all the innumerable gorgeous beaches of Malaysia but can visit some of the most popular beaches here which range from the powdery sandy expanses of the eastern coastline in Peninsular Malaysia to the pebbly Pantai Batu Kerikil beach and the black sandy Pantai Pasir Hitam beach. The most interesting activities that you can indulge into on your visit to Malaysia include visits to the rain forests, national parks and tropical waters, jungle trekking, spelunking, shopping, and dining.
 

The tropical waters off both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo offer some of the world's best scuba diving. This is a place endowed with some of the sport's best possibilities: you can dive with whale sharks, hover around immense coral gardens and walls, or dive on ominous and hulking WWII shipwrecks. In many places, you can get 100 feet of visibility. Also, the country has become increasingly aware of the biological and economic importance of its marine heritage, and each year brings better access to and protection for the unique marine life. Because of the hundreds of islands, there are many dive options. Scuba-dive in the tropical waters off Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. Prime sites include Layang Layang, Miri, Pulau Redang, Pulau Sipadan, Pulau Perhentian, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and Labuan Island. Overall, Malaysia has some of the most memorable diving areas in the world, making a scuba diving holiday in Malaysia an excellent vacation choice.

With its glorious vistas, verdant undulating terrain and varied tropical landscapes, Malaysia's ancient forests offer vast possibilities for trekking and camping. The country's extensive array of national parks and wildlife reserves are ideal for communing with nature and discovering her secrets. From the primordial rainforest of Taman Negara to the wildlife sanctuaries at Danum Valley and the Kinabatangan floodplains, some of Asia's best-preserved environments offer nature lovers a wealth of experience. While amateurs may try Malaysia's many easily accessible recreational forests near urban centres, seasoned explorers can go for challenging week-long treks up mountains such as Gunung Tahan, the tallest peak in Peninsular Malaysia. For the uninitiated, having a trained local guide is necessary to ensure safety and to learn about the amazing and precious diversity of flora and fauna in the ecosystem. Tropical jungles are dense, and the thick vegetation provides camouflage for the jungle denizens. It takes patience and a trained eye to see them. Go jungle trekking in the Taman Negara National Park. There are many clearly marked trails including a canopy walkway. Expert guides should be hired from the Wildlife Department at the Taman Negara Resort at Kuala Tahan. Walk in the delightful parkland surrounding Tugu Negara, Malaysia's National Monument in Kuala Lumpur, which commemorates the ultimately successful struggle against the occupying Japanese during World War II and communist insurgents in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Stroll through the Tasek Perdana Lake Gardens, one of Kuala Lumpur's best-known natural landmarks. Within the gardens are Parliament House and the National Monument, an impressive brass structure and one of the world's largest free-standing sculptures. Swampy mangroves, extensive river floodplains, lush rainforests and strident hillscapes are among the varied environments that can exist even within trekking distance of each other. Each possess its own ecosystem and wildlife characteristics. There are mangrove belts along most of Peninsular Malaysia's west coast as well as in Sabah and Sarawak. Some such as in Kuala Selangor Nature Park have boardwalks for safety and convenience of visitors. Further up the hills and mountain slopes, montane forest environments take over with their cooler ambience and presenting spectacular views that are well worth the trek. Jungle trekking can take an hour or more and, with camping, as many days as desired. Among the best periods to go trekking in Peninsula Malaysia is in the 'dry season' from March to September when the rainfall is less. In Sabah and Sarawak the 'wet season' is from July to October. Hikers should certainly consider a break in Malaysia.

Cycling in Malaysia is a mixed though mostly very pleasant experience, just be careful of riding in the more built-up areas. People in Malaysia are less interested in cycling than certain other Asian territories. Consequentially, the cities are usually busy and there is little space for a bicycle to go round safely. In the eyes of many locals it's too hot, too dangerous and too arduous to cycle in the busier areas. However, in the lesser visited regions of Malaysia’s hinterland, people are proud you take the time to visit their town. In some areas of the western coast mountain biking has become fairly popular. Kuala Lumpur is for most travellers the first city they visit in Malaysia. Although not bicycle friendly, it is still worth the effort to visit. That said, every year the biggest cycling tour in Asia is held under the name Tour de Langkawi. Cycling along the many miles of beautiful beaches from Kuah to Cenang Beach is a definite highlight with some aw-inspiring sights. In the hills of Penang you will find quite a few mountain bikers and, probably for that reason, there's are excellent bicycle shops all across Malaysia’s larger towns and villages, most of which are very affordable.

Good news! Shopping addicts could really have a great time, roaming through street markets, sidewalk stalls, night markets and shopping malls. This amazing country offers ample of options for shoppers to get the best of Asia, varying from branded, designer merchandise to local handicrafts. Furthermore, exemption of duty on various items by government has proved stroke of luck for bargain hunters. In case you're looking for duty free areas, check out Rantau Panjang & Pengkalan Kubur and Padang Besar & Bukit Kayu Hitam, sited in Kelantan and Kedah respectively. Also browse the duty frees shops, serviceable at city centres and airports in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Penang.

If you're in quest of souvenirs, then explore the local handicrafts which exemplify the culture of Malaysia. Besides intricate silver, brass and pottery, you can also rate the Malaysian Batik, set apart by intrepid designs and stunning colours. In Malaysia, there are numerous shopping malls, complexes and stores where you can hit upon stylish clothes, elegant footwear, optical items, elite watches and quality fabrics. Here, you can also find top-notch stores resolved to electrical appliances, gadgets and equipments.

The Government of Malaysia has also made adequate efforts to steal the attention of worldwide shoppers by Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival that tenders great bargains twice a year. Since dollars and pounds make favorable exchange in Ringgit, people can buy more at comparatively less price. Nearly all shopping malls and stores are open from 10:00 hrs till 22:00 hrs. So, without any delay, come to Malaysia and experience the complete shopping culture - it’s a perfect shopping break for any holidaymaker.

Malaysia's rugged undulating terrain, dense rain forests crossed by rapid rivers make it an irresistible destination for four wheel drive or 4WD expeditions. The heat, mud, rolling hills and rainstorms add to the challenge in the gruelling yet exhilarating off-road driving. With over half the country still under jungle cover, Malaysia's natural landscape brings out the best of man and machine in a test of skill and endurance. Yet there are sweet rewards, with stunning vistas to behold or a quiet stop to view the wildlife and the waterfalls to cool off after an exhausting run.

International 4X4 or off-road events held in Malaysia annually are usually around October and November. Among them are the Trans-Borneo International Rally, the National Challenge and the Rainforest International Challenge of Malaysia.

The novice or casual visitor may not be cut out for the rigours of world class events like the year-end Camel Trophy or the Rainforest Challenge, two of the world of 4WD's most competitive events. However, there is nothing to stop an interested amateur from trying out off-road driving and having an exciting time exploring places off the beaten track, especially in a conducive environment like Malaysia's. Peninsular Malaysia's East Coast offers some of the best terrain for off-road enthusiasts. The forests around Gua Musang in Kelantan; Tasik Kenyir, Sungai Loh and Sungai Kelamin in Terengganu; Endau Rompin in Johor; Tasik Chini and Cameron Highlands in Pahang are established routes for this adventure sport.

Closer to Kuala Lumpur, the most notable is Pertak in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor which is just two hours drive from the city. The route is scenic with plantations and fresh fruit stalls lining the approach road. South of Kuala Lumpur, the forests around Kuala Klawang in Negeri Sembilan offer waterfall attractions such as Lata Kijang and visits to Aboriginal settlements. Pahang and Terengganu are the acclaimed 4WD destinations. The Sungai Lembing mines in Pahang are a tested though challenging site and anglers may like to pack their rods for some fishing as well. Endau Rompin, a National Park area in Johor is a more trying route. A well prepared group expedition is strongly recommended since a lone vehicle may encounter difficulties. Further afield in East Malaysia, the areas around the Kinabalu National Park in Sabah and Bintulu in Sarawak are sites for off-road driving.

Off-road driving is a year round activity, but depending on the level of expertise of participants, some months are better than others. The relatively drier season from March to October make for firmer terrain and less mud as trails may become severe if it rains. StorlJ1s, landslides and floods may also change the tracks and make them impassable or inaccessible. For the East Coast, take note of the December - February monsoon rains.

There are local adventure operators offering four wheel drive expeditions, designed to suit visitors' experience and time constraints. Drivers, food, and camping equipment can be included in the package. Campsites are usually situated near a waterfall or river, a superb environment for bathing and swimming. Although visitors can rent 4WD vehicles on their own, it is not advisable to venture into the wilderness without a guide and partners as the terrain is difficult to negotiate without the benefit of experience. Some operators also offer 4WD road training courses with a certificate upon completion. In short, Malaysia has no shortage of unforgettable areas of natural beauty that make for a truly wondrous driving holiday.
 

Rates as one of the top spa destinations in the world for 2009 and 2010, Malaysia is certainly one of the cheaper more beautiful spots for a spa break. When you need to relax and unwind, head for the beautiful sandy beaches of Malaysia - the spa's here will not disappoint! Day spas and spa resorts in Malaysia come in a huge range of styles and personalities, from small village spas to 35,000 square foot extravaganzas with the latest equipment. In addition, some resort spas are open to locals on a day basis. We advise you book your spa in advance... and if you do resort to stressful last minute booking, don't worry - because you're heading straight for a massage! Nevertheless, you might as well save a couple of hundred by booking out of peak season (June/July and August).