Those who travel to Malaysia find a land teeming with interesting cultures and natural beauty. The Southeast Asian country consists of two parts separated by the South China Sea—the Malaysian peninsula, which is south of Thailand and connected by causeway and bridge to Singapore; and two states, Sabah and Sarawak, on the northern part of Borneo. Most tourists visit the much more developed Peninsular Malaysia, though East Malaysia offers fantastic opportunities for scuba diving and jungle trekking.
The country’s mix of Malays, Chinese and Indians has influenced the country’s delectable cuisine and the influence of several religions (Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism), mean many colorful festivals are celebrated. A Malaysia vacation often includes visits to its celebrated beaches, particularly on Penang Island, which is also known for its historic quarter. Adventure-seekers will find plenty to do, including river-rafting and cave exploration in the rainforest. The cultural melting pot of Kuala Lumpur, the capital, boasts many interesting activities, including a must-see on any Malaysia travel itinerary: taking in the view from the sky bridge between the 88-story Petronas Twin Towers.
U.S. citizens must have a passport that’s valid for at least six months beyond the intended visiting period to enter Malaysia. The passport should be carried at all times, and it’s required to travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, and between Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysia has a tropical climate, so it’s warm year-round. Temperatures in the lowlands range from about 70°F to 90°F, while temperatures in the highlands range from about 59°F to 77°F. To avoid monsoon season, it’s best to visit between April and October. There are six international airports in Malaysia, with most international visitors flying into Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Car rentals are available. Driving is on the left. Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national language, though English is widely spoken. Currency is the Malaysian Ringgit. For more information on a vacation in Malaysia, log on to www.tourism.gov.my, Tourism Malaysia’s official website.