In this how to visit Malaysia page, you can learn some basic information about the country. The former colony of Britain is divided into two parts by the South China Sea. On the west is the Malacca Peninsula and the other part is Sabah and Serawak in Borneo island. Malaysia is formerly occupied by the British and you can see the British influence throughout the country. Malaysian mainly consists of three ethnic groups, the Malay, the Chinese, and the Indian which result in many cultural diversity within the country.
Malaysia opens its door for visitors who visit Malaysia from ASEAN countries, most of Arab countries and Western countries to visit Malaysia without visa for tourism purpose. For most other countries, you can obtain visa on arrival when you arrive at Malaysia. Malaysia bans Israel citizens from entering the country.
The official language for Malaysia is Malay, but English is widely spoken and understood throughout the country. Chinese and Indian are widely spoken among the ethnic communities.
The official religion for Malaysian is Islam, although other religions are also practiced.http://www.tourism.gov.my/en/about/facts.asp Other major religions that are practised by different ethnic groups are Buddhism, Hindu, and Christianity. You should never disrespect any religion or holy places. Follow the rules when visiting religious places and ask. Public display of affection is very frowned upon as is many behaviors that are considered immoral.
Official currency in Malaysia is Malaysian Ringgit (RM). You can exchange your money at the banks and money changers throughout the country.
Step 1: Transportation
You can get to Malaysia via air, sea, or land depending on where you come from, but there is no sea connection between the Peninsula with the Malaysian Borneo.
To travel around the country, there are several good options to choose from. One option is by taking domestic flights. Air Asia, the Malaysian budget flight service, connect major Malaysian cities and it also provides international flights around Asia.http://www.tourism.gov.my/en/about/essentials.asp
Malaysian also has an excellent train system that is comfortable and economical. One route connects Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand while another connects Gemas to Pulau Perhentian. You can also sleep on the train if you take the night train, and therefore saving one night. Faster than the train are intercity buses, which also offer excellent service with air conditioning and comfortable seats. You can also rent a car, which is available in daily or weekly fare.
Local transport within the city or town in Malaysia depends on where you are. In Kuala Lumpur, you can take commuter trains and monorail which are efficient and cheap. Taxis in Malaysia do not offer the best service but they are cheap and plentiful. Sometimes they don’t turn on their meters or extort high fees from the passengers, although you also can find some nice taxi drivers. Be sure to agree on the fare before you ride on a taxi or ask the driver to turn on the meter.
Step 2: Accomodation and Dining
Accommodation and dining are usually very economical in Malaysia. There are many hotels and resorts to choose from in various locations, especially tourist spots depending on your budget. Beach front resorts provide you with excellent service to unwind and relax with spa facilities.
Prices may go up in high or peak season, so consult with your travel agent or find the best fare before you go. Booking your hotel prior to your arrival is also recommended as the hotels might be fully booked during certain holiday seasons. Breakfast is usually included in the hotel fare.
Dining can be a delight in Malaysia. It is cheap, plentiful, and diverse. Each culture, the Chinese, Malay, and Indian has their own cuisine, and they also mix into a unique cuisine on its own such as Nonya cuisine which is a mix between Chinese and Malay cuisine. Penang is a gastronomic adventure in itself and offer the best cuisines in Malaysia.
Kuih are variety of Malaysian traditional snacks. Nasi Lemak is Malaysian traditional rice, cooked with coconut milk and served with various accompaniments. Laksa is Malaysian worldwide famous soup. Don’t forget to try Teh Tarik. You can watch the tea maker to pour the tea from afar with amazing skill.
Step 3: Places to Visit in Malaysia
There are countless of places to visit in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is the largest and most modern city in Malaysia. You can enjoy shopping for local and international brands in the city, go to the adventure park in Sunway Lagoon, or gamble in Genting Highland, the only place where casino is legal in Malaysia.
For ecological tour, visit Taman Negara in the Peninsula, or better yet, explore the rain forests in Sabah and Serawak. Sabah and Serawak are inhabited by ingenious people and you can see and experience their traditional cultures which are markedly different from the people in Peninsula.
Malaka is declared as the historical city of Malaysia.http://travelmalaysiaguide.com/destinations/ You can see the colonial architectural heritage throughout the region. Langkawi and Pulau Pangkor offer pristine and serene beaches with fishing villages and other natural beauty when you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
Penang Island is a place you don’t want to miss in Malaysia. It is the gastronomic heaven for foodies with excellent food stalls at every corner of the island. Unlike most regions in Malaysia, Penang is mostly inhabited by Chinese. You can see the beautiful Buddhist temples and other architectural heritage from the colonial era. The island is also a great place to enjoy beautiful beach.
Malaka is declared as the historical city of Malaysia.http://travelmalaysiaguide.com/destinations/ You can see the colonial architectural heritage throughout the region. Langkawi and Pulau Pangkor offer pristine and serene beaches with fishing villages and other natural beauty when you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
