Malaysia, for unforgettable experiences
Malaysia's environment lends itself to every kind of fantasy. Take advantage of your stay to dive in Sipadan and rub shoulders with colorful fish, molluscs and other marine creatures. Pulai Perhentian, one of Malaysia's eastern islands, is another spot where beginners can snorkel. Here, you don't have to go far to come face to face with a swarm of fish of different colors, shapes and sizes. The Danum Valley is home to the world's oldest primary forest. A trek into the heart of this green setting is one of the most beautiful experiences of a stay in Borneo. As you make your way through the dense vegetation, you'll come face to face with strange species of animals you've probably never seen before, except in wildlife documentaries. Between the emerald-green rattlesnakes, the unusually shaped frogs and the lizards that seem to fly, you won't know where to turn. If climbing is your passion, take on Mount Kinabalu, the home of the spirits and Malaysia's highest mountain. Seaside tourism enthusiasts will also find much to enjoy in Malaysia. Beaches abound in this country. Pulau Langkawi, also known as the jewel of Kedah, is home to secluded resorts set amid lush jungle. Pulau Tioman is another corner of paradise where you can soak up the sun without doing anything, or challenge the waves that wash up on the beaches.
Obsessed with the beauty of the Malaysian environment, travellers often overlook the country's cities. And yet, some cities and neighborhoods are not lacking in interest. In Penang, the old colonial district of Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, bears witness to the passage of Europeans to Malaysia. The shophouses, converted into museums, restaurants and hotels, are a must-see in Georgetown. Kampong Ayer, the world's largest lakeside village, is also well worth a visit, if only to admire the traditional houses built on stilts.
To enhance your stay in Malaysia, nothing beats a little gourmet break. Here, there's no need to sit down in a Michelin-starred restaurant to sample the best of Malaysian cuisine. Often, the tastiest dishes, which best reflect traditional Malaysian gastronomy, are served in unpretentious street stalls. This informal yet tasty street food can be found on every street corner in Malaysia.
Year-round travel in Malaysia
Malaysia can be visited in any season, including the rainy season. Most holidaymakers come to Malaysia between December and February to celebrate Christmas in a different way and to attend the Chinese New Year festivities. If you're looking for a peaceful vacation away from the holiday crowds, the ideal time to plan your trip to Malaysia is during the off-season, between March and June. By doing so, not only will you avoid the crowds, but you won't have to suffer the heavy rains of the rainy season.