Travel Tips
Malaysia
Modern Kuala Lumpur, rainforest wildlife and diverse street food make Malaysia easy and rewarding.
What I love about Malaysia
People often ask me what I love most about a country. Every country has its good and bad sides, but here I share the positives I found on my travels.
Three cultures in one country. You will hear Malay, Chinese and Tamil spoken side by side, and the food and festivals mix too.
- Capital
- Kuala Lumpur
- Currency
- Malaysian ringgit (MYR)
- Language
- Malay, English
- Best overall
- Varies: west coast December to February, east coast March to October
- Emergency
- 999
- Electricity
- 240V, plug type G
Top Destinations
Many nationalities can visit visa-free for a short stay. Most visitors must also complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card before entry. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Monsoons hit coasts at different times. West coast islands are best from about December to February, and east coast islands from March to October.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Kuala Lumpur
The Petronas Towers, the Batu Caves and fantastic food.
Penang
George Town's street art and legendary hawker food.
Langkawi
Island beaches and a cable car.
Borneo
Orangutans and rainforest in Sabah and Sarawak.
Melaka
A historic port with colonial and Peranakan heritage.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 3 Kuala Lumpur
- Day 4 Melaka
- Days 5 to 6 Penang
- Days 7 to 9 Langkawi
- Days 10 to 13 Borneo, by air
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Use the Grab app in cities. Trains and comfortable buses link the west coast.
- Fly to reach Borneo.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Cards are common in cities. Carry cash for hawker stalls and markets.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Nasi lemak: coconut rice with sambal.
- Char kway teow: fried flat noodles.
- Roti canai: flaky flatbread with curry.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Cover up when visiting mosques, as dress rules are enforced.
- Drug laws are very strict and penalties are severe.
Planning a trip to Malaysia?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.