Malaysia Holiday
Malaysia is the face of modern Asia, a place where old meets new, where different religions exist side by side and where cultures blend into one big vibrant melting pot.
Although it only gained full independence in 1957, it has since been making up for lost time in developing its own unique identity. But what Malaysia lacks in ancient ruins, it makes up for in chilled beaches, the world's oldest tropical rainforest and some spectacular underground caves.
The skyline is dominated by the skyscrapers which mark KL's growing economy; in the space of 150 years it has grown from a small colonial town into a thriving cosmopolitan city of two million people. And for those who do not suffer the trappings of vertigo, a trip up to viewing deck of the world's tallest building gives spectacular views over the sprawling city beneath.
Towards the south of the country lies Melaka, the birthplace of Malay civilisation which still bears the relics of colonisation by the Portuguese then the British and then the Dutch. The striking pink town hall known as the Stadthuys is the oldest Dutch building in the Far East. Although Islam is the main culture of Malaysia, the country is home to a plethora of churches, mosques and temples. Numerous festivals to mark religious and cultural events are held throughout the year.
Just off the north-west coast, the island of Penang is the oldest British settlement in Malaysia boasting numerous beaches to while away long hot days. But it's the island capital, Georgetown that is the real gem. Spend an afternoon wandering round and favouring the Chinese flavour of the town and you could be forgiven for thinking you'd gone back 50 years in time. North of Penang, Pulau Langkawi is popular for its duty-free shopping.
When the humidity and 30°C temperatures get too much, most travellers head to the Cameron highlands for a taste of home and a chance to escape into the rolling hills for walks which can be as strenuous or relaxing as you want. It's one of the few places in Malaysia you'll stumble across a thatched pub with a bright red phone box nearby. For those with a penchant for trekking, the lush tropical rainforests of Taman Negara national park live up to the hype with trails, animal hides, a high canopy walkway and waterfalls.
But the real attraction of Malaysia for diving fanatics is Pulau Perhentian just off the north-east coast. Most people arrive for a few days and end up staying a week whether sunbathing, snorkeling or making friends with giant sea-turtles whilst scuba diving. In the evenings there's little to do but relax with your fellow travellers and enjoy a meal of barbequed stingray, barracuda or even shark for less than the price of a Big Mac. Alcohol is available in places but expect to pay around British prices.
Moving across from the Peninsula, the states of Sarawak and Sabah offer a further glimpse into the impact of colonisation. The Iban longhouses and Bidayuh communities are the main draws especially during early summer when the tribes hold free-for-all parties to celebrate the harvest season.
Like the rest of south-east Asia, Malaysia is hit by the tropical downpours and thunderstorms of monsoon season mainly between November and February. The best time to visit is between is between April and October, unless of course you enjoy being frequently soaked to the bone.
