Malaysia Holidays

Malaysia’s been a calling point for tonnes of seafaring traders over the years, so there’s a bit of a cultural mish-mash going on these days. The main part of the country’s hooked on to Thailand’s toe, which means it’s surrounded by sea on almost every side. You’ll see tell-tale signs of Chinese, Indian and Portuguese architecture in its bigger towns, especially in the skyscraper-crowned capital, Kuala Lumpur. And whether you’re hopping across to an island, or setting up camp on the coastline, the beaches are absolute crackers.

If you need proof that good things come in small packages, have a gander at the island of Langkawi. This diddy dot of land bobs in the Strait of Malacca, off Malaysia’s west coast. Dollops of porcelain-coloured sand smother the shoreline, and the interior plays host to a patch of rainforest that’s barely been explored. If something faster-paced is more your idea of fun, it’s best to turn to Kuala Lumpur. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to filling time here – check out the view from the twin Petronas Towers, stroll through the Lake Gardens or part with some cash in the heaving Central Market.

Malaysia’s like one big wildlife park, with enough animals hanging about to make every day a potential safari. At the rare end of the scale, you’ve got clouded leopards, Asian elephants and Malayan tigers. Herds of seledang – the world’s biggest cattle species – roam around the grassy open spaces. Life beneath the waves is just as exciting, with hammerhead sharks, sea turtles and manta rays swimming around its off-shore reefs.