Between the mouthwatering cuisine, the mind-blowing islands, and the breathtaking landscapes, Malaysia is a destination you’ll want to return to time and time again. With so much to do and so many places to see, planning your first trip to Malaysia can be overwhelming. This is why we’re here. The following travel tips and hacks will help you make the most of your first, but definitely not your last, trip to the beautiful, diverse country.
Dress for the Weather
Malaysia is mostly hot and humid year-round. It also has two rainy seasons that last for most of the year; the Southwest Monsoon lasts from late May to September and the Northeast Monsoon from October to March. Now, this may seem like a turn off for some travelers, but the good news is that the Monsoon seasons are predictable, and if you dress appropriately, the weather won’t stop you from enjoying the wonder that is Malaysia. Luckily, you won’t have to pack heavily; all you need is an umbrella, a light, a breathable rain jacket, and a waterproof bag.
Save Up On Transportation
Renting a car is perhaps the most convenient means of transportation you can find while traveling. If you’re visiting a city like Penang, the cultural hotspot in Malaysia, where you’re likely to stay much longer than you expected, renting a car won’t hurt your pocket. If you rent a car in Penang for a few days, you’ll probably get a good deal from the car rental company which can help you save money on transportation. From Penang, you can then board a train directly to Kuala Lumpur. In Kuala Lumpur, you can use the GO KL City Bus; it’s a free service for travelers that covers most of the tourist hotspots, like Bukit Bintang and Chinatown. You can also book an ideal car in Kuala Lumpur easily by following a few simple steps. There are many car rental companies that can provide you the desired car.
Eat as Much as You Can
The food in Malaysia is absolutely incredible and so, one of the best tips we can give you is to eat as much as you possibly can! You haven’t truly experienced Malaysian food until you delight your taste buds with the sweet treat that is apam balik. Nasi kandar is another staple dish in Malaysia that you definitely must try. Other mouthwatering Malaysian dishes include laksa, nasi kerabu, and nasi lemak.
Be Sure to Visit the Batu Caves
The Batu Caves, home to the most magnificent Hindu temples, are an unmissable Malaysian national treasure. The Ramayana Cave is perhaps the most astonishing of the Batu Caves. With its spectacular embellishments, it boasts incredible, psychedelic dioramas of the Indian epic ‘Ramayana’ that are truly a spectacle that you must see while in Malaysia.
From the dense urban jungle of Kuala Lumpur to the pristine, dreamlike beaches of the Perhentian Islands, there’s enough to do, see, and explore in Malaysia to keep you busy for days on end. Because it’s a big country, sightseeing will depend on what city you first visit and how interested you are to travel inside the country, but wherever you go and whatever you do, be sure to keep our tips in mind to make the most out of your first Malaysian adventure.