Sophia’s Top 5 Places to Visit in Malaysia

Travelling into the world’s oldest rainforest is truly a unique Malaysian experience. The views here are stunning and there are lots of activities to enjoy such as sustainable fishing (catch and release), canoeing and trekking to find the world’s largest flower – the Rafflesia.

If you fancy relaxing on a beach with white sand and crystal blue waters then this is the place for you. I have travelled to many Asian destinations (and beach destinations in general) but the Perhentian islands still took my breath away. These waters were amongst some of the cleanest I have come across and there is a cool island vibe. Perhentian Besar (big island) is the quietest of the Perhentian Islands and is the perfect place to relax, snorkel in the waters and then enjoy a cocktail whilst taking in the sunset.

A trishaw ride around Penang is the best way to see this cultural city. Along the way you will stop off at some of Penang’s temples and heritage houses. You can see the famous reclining Buddha, and also the Straits Chinese jewellery museum. Your trishaw driver will also take you to visit some of the street art that has made Penang. Not to mention that with a Little India and a Little China, Penang has some of the best food that Malaysia has to offer!

This secluded paradise island is like nowhere else that I have been in the world. Our accommodation is a resort located right on the beach with rooms offering fantastic views. In the afternoon you can head out on the snorkel trip arranged by the resort and spot tropical fish such as the clownfish, the parrotfish and if you are lucky enough, turtles.

This idyllic beach is the perfect add on to the Perhentian trip and offers similar beaches but is more secluded.

No trip to Malaysia would be complete without a visit to Kuala Lumpur, the capital. This city offers everything from world-class shopping centres, an outstanding choice of restaurants offering all types of world cuisine and awe-inspiring buildings such as the Petronas Towers. To get a great view of the city and of the Petronas Towers I would recommend heading up to the viewing platform of the KL Tower.

There you have it, my list of the top things to do and see on your next Malaysia trip…now my only question is – when are you going?!