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 invites you to reveal the depths of nature, people, and gastronomy, peeling back the many layers within.
Proudly representing a variety of Asian influences that require a long checklist for foodies, the tantalizing tastes of aromatic laksa, fragrant chicken rice, herbal ribs soup (bak kut the), 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 wildlife biodiversity.
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 favorite parts of the country…
Kuala Lumpur
The metropolis of Kuala Lumpur wows with its thriving night markets, a fusion of Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian flavors 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 center, or cooler climes in the Cameron Highlands with its tea plantations.
Stay at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, right next to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. The hotel offers stunning cityscape views and unrivaled access to all the excitement of this buzzing capital and is home to a world-class spa, five dining and drinking outlets, as well as an outdoor pool.
Langkawi
A jewel of the Andaman Sea, Langkawi boasts numerous geoparks, rainforests, 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 bird’s 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.
Borneo
Laying claim as the third largest island in the world, adventure, and wildlife seekers will savor the thrilling journey to Borneo’s pristine rainforests. A visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center 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 exceptional destination.
Desaru Coast
At the tail-end of Malaysia, your family will love this stunning beach retreat where the number of family-friendly activities to do is endless.
Stay at One&Only Desaru Coast, for incredible family adventures through unique landscapes and crystal seas, discovering wildlife, local communities, and cultural wonders. Listen to the Great Call of the Gibbons, trade words with visionaries under the stars, learn an ancient martial art, or scale up the most magnificent trees.
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 family escape to Malaysia with us, adding sparkle and intrigue to your family adventures from the moment you touchdown.