A Taste of Malaysia’s Miraculous Highlights

For those who don’t yet know Malaysia, there is so much more than meets the eye. The rich multicultural history of these islands bordering the Malacca Strait invite you to reveal the depths of nature, people, and gastronomy, peeling back the many layers that exist within. Proudly representing a variety of Asian influences that requires a long checklist for foodies, the tantalising tastes of aromatic laksa, fragrant chicken rice, herbal ribs soup (bak kut teh) and nasi goreng must be experienced firsthand. Across the sea on Borneo island where orangutans reign and tropical birds flock, the rainforest is as old as the Amazon with a breathtaking biodiversity of wildlife. Scale the sacred Mount Kinabalu by dawn, encounter one of over 30 ethnic races in Sabah alone, and go scuba diving in crystal clear waters teeming with untamed marine life. Below, we share a glimpse of our favourite parts of the country…

Kuala Lumpur
Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur

The metropolis of Kuala Lumpur wows with its thriving night markets, a fusion of Malaysian, Chinese and Indian flavours dominating their cuisine, and the dizzying and iconic Petronas Twin Towers. If time permits, you’ll find authentic cuisine on the outskirts of the city centre, or cooler climes in the Cameron Highlands with its tea plantations.

Stay at Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, adjoined to the KLCC shopping centre with a flawless infinity pool, indoor golf centre and illustrious dining venues with Cantonese flair.

Langkawi
Four Seasons Resort Langkawi and The Datai Langkawi

A jewel of the Andaman Sea, Langkawi boasts numerous geoparks, rainforest and mangroves attracting resplendent bird species, Dusky langurs and Sunda colugos, and varied sea creatures within Pulau Payar Marine Park. Boasting an archipelago of 99 islands and an epic mountainous landscape, walking along the Sky Bridge is the closest you can get to floating amongst the clouds with a birds eye view.

Stay at the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi for their prime location within the Geopark, stunning mile-long beach, and elegant, light-filled beach villas, with the newest Imperial Five-bedroom a must for large families accommodating up to 12.

Stay at The Datai Langkawi which offers a total immersion into the tropical rainforest, an enchanting cocoon that encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the healing power of jungle living. With a secluded bay at your doorstep and a strong ethos of sustainability, you’ll feel ensconced within these natural riches.

Borneo
Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Laying claim as the third largest island in the world, adventure and wildlife seekers will savour the thrilling journey to Borneo’s pristine rainforests. A visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a must, before traversing down the Kinabatangan River and entering the heart of the Danum Valley with the glorious cacophony of its residents. Time spent here is a chance to hone your natural instincts and spot unique wildlife in its protected habitat.

Stay at Borneo Rainforest Lodge, nestled in the Danum Valley and home to unique wildlife such as flying squirrels, endemic red muntjacs, Rhinoceros hornbills, and the elusive yet mighty orangutan. Your open-air terrace at your chalet is an idyllic platform from which to take in the incredible sights and sounds of this truly special destination.

Penang
Shangri-La Rasa Sayang

Renowned as one of the eating meccas of the country, Penang’s cuisine has been shaped by a multitude of cultures from Hokkien and Hakka to British and Indian Tamils. George Town on Penang island offers a delightful combination of Peranakan culture, vibrant street art murals, an obsession with hawker stall hopping, quirky shophouses, and kopitiams for an insight into their buzzing social life.

Stay at Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, families will find a haven here with plenty of space to roam amidst lush tropical gardens, an Adventure Zone with drop-slides, and a Cool Zone Kids Club to keep them entertained throughout the day.

Desaru Coast
One&Only Desaru Coast

At the tail-end of Malaysia, couples and solo travellers will love the serenity of One&Only Desaru Coast, a beach retreat that enhances Wellness traditions with ancient local wisdom, incorporates field-to-fork dining, and takes luxury accommodation to the next level with its sleek design.

It’s time to explore the unknown pastures of this country’s wonderful rainforests, coasts, and mountains, while indulging in unforgettable dishes that are unmatched anywhere else. Start planning your exotic escape to Malaysia with your 360 Private Travel Partner, who will add sparkle and intrigue to your adventure from the moment you touchdown.