A wanderlust’s bucket list of Asia’s top destinations will definitely include Malaysia. The country offers a kaleidoscope of cultural, contemporary, and natural splendours. Malaysia sprawls across two separate landmasses – the Malaysian Peninsula and the Borneo island and each section have unique experiences in stow for visitors. As a newbie traveller, the Malaysian Peninsula is a great place to start your adventure in this stunning destination. This makes it much easier to travel as a first-time traveller in Malaysia. Moreover, it really helps to get a feel for the region before you undertake an extensive trip to Malaysia in the future. Here is a short guide as Malaysia for first-time visitors reference to learn more about this destination and to prepare for your first visit.
First things first, before you plan your Malaysia trip, seek answers to these questions:
When should you go to Malaysia?
Malaysia is characterized by a tropical, humid climate, but seasons vary by region. For visitors who are exploring the Malaysian Peninsula the best time to visit would be from March to October. March and October are shoulder seasons with pleasant tropical sunshine ideal for outdoor adventures.
What type of Malaysia visa should you apply for?
It is essential to confirm whether your passport has longer than six months of validity and if a Malaysia visit visa is required as per your nationality. If yes, then choose the type of Malaysia visa that is best suited for the duration of your itinerary. A single-entry Malaysia tourist visa would be enough for a short Malaysia vacation.
Ideal Clothing and What to Pack
Light, loose breathable clothing will maximize comfort in Malaysia’s hot and often humid weather. Cotton shirts, shorts, skirts and lightweight trousers or jeans are ideal. Bring clothes that provide sun protection. Casual clothing is acceptable everywhere but have modest attire when visiting places of worship. Remember the raincoat or compact umbrella during the monsoon season. Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, universal plug adaptor and a lightweight scarf to use as an impromptu head covering when required.
Best places to visit for Malaysia First time visitors
Kuala Lumpur City
For a first-time visitor to Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is definitely a must-visit destination. With its beautiful amalgamation of contemporary and ethnicity, it has a unique style of its own. You can enjoy the view of the tallest twin towers in the world – the Petronas Twin Towers, stroll through the KLCC Park, savour the food scene at Petaling Street as well as shop at the Central Market. Other notable places to visit in Malaysia include the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Merdeka Square, and the Batu Caves Excursion.
Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highland is a natural paradise for nature lovers and is located just three hour drive away from Kuala Lumpur, in the verdant hills of Pahang state. It makes for a great romantic getaway in Malaysia. A fine blend of tea plantations, luscious strawberry farms, and the welcoming, luxuriant greenery of Cameron Highland make the region such a delightful way to view nature that Malaysia is so well known for. The atmosphere of nature in this highland is so pristine that you can appreciate Malaysia’s natural beauty in just one day.
Penang
Another fascinating spot to explore in Malaysia is Penang which is a coastal city tucked in the northwest of the Malaysian Peninsula. With a mellowed ambience, Penang offers a wonderful alternative to the hectic crowds of Kuala Lumpur. Also, the city exudes the charm of its bygone British colonial era, which is a truly unique feature of the city. The most striking example is to be found at George Town, a World Heritage Site that blends colonial architecture harmoniously with a Chinese and Malaysian influence and an impressive street art scene.
Langkawi
On the Malaysian Peninsula, Langkawi is where you can experience blissful beach getaways with sun-kissed white sands and azure water views. Some of the best beach resorts in Malaysia are located in Langkawi, with unbeatable views of the water and the beach. The numerous family-friendly islands in Malaysia that make up this archipelago are edged with a variety of pristine beaches where couples can enjoy romantic interludes or simply soak in the tranquil beauty away from the stresses of daily life.
The Diverse Cuisine of Malaysia
Malaysian cuisine reflects the multi-ethnic population consisting mainly of ethnic Malay, Chinese, and Indian people. The blend of cooking traditions means visitors can find Nasi Lemak (coconut rice) eaten alongside Bak Kut The (Chinese pork ribs soup) and Roti Canai (Indian flatbread). Hawker food stalls offer endless varieties of noodles, curries, stir fried dishes, snacks and cooling desserts at very affordable prices. Main cities have an ever-expanding range of international cuisine but be sure to taste authentic Malaysian dishes.
Celebrations and Events in Malaysia
There is always a cultural event or festival happening in Malaysia. Major celebrations are the Chinese New Year festivities early in the year and the Hindu holiday Deepavali (Festival of Lights). There is also the Muslim celebration of Hari Raya to mark the end of Ramadan, making Malaysia the perfect place to travel during Ramadan. South Indians in Malaysia also have their own unique Thaipusam festival involving special worship and elaborate street processions. Attending some of the festive celebrations in the country would make for your spiritual travel in Malaysia. December sees open house celebrations for Christmas and New Year plus, uniquely Malaysian, nasi lemak parties during the Malaysia Grand Prix in Kuala Lumpur. It is also a wonderful time to browse the shopping places in Malaysia for discounts.
Essential points for first-time Malaysian visitors
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport is the main gateway into Malaysia with extensive global connections
- Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) is the local currency – exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 5 MYR
- Malaysia travel on budget is simple – not too expensive but not super cheap either, budget wisely
- Learning a few simple Malay phrases helps break the ice with locals
- If you are on a solo travel in Malaysia, keep the emergency numbers and closed ones contact handy.
- Observe and respect local customs and culture to avoid issues
- Hiring a local travel agency simplifies trip planning logistics
- Getting a local SIM card reduces mobile roaming charges
- There are many free attractions to experience in Malaysia
- Follow where locals eat, drink and socialize for authentic experiences
- Ensure that there are not any virus breakouts and that the precautions taken for travel at the time of coronavirus still remain.
- Street food hawker centers offer delicious and affordable Malaysian cuisine
- The living expenses in Malaysia is quite affordable. You can easily enjoy a comfortable holiday without breaking your bank account.
- Immersing yourself in local lifestyles provides a genuine introduction to Malaysia
- Learn about the dos and don’ts of Malaysia culture and etiquette to ensure that you do not do anything that offends the people of the country.