I have been to Malaysia numerous times that I actually lost count. Whenever someone ask me how many times I've been there, I say..hmmmm well, around 10 times! Haha. But kidding aside, ever since I moved in this part of the world, Malaysia became my 2nd Home.
I first visited Malaysia in 2016 and met so many amazing people. Basically this is one of the reasons why I always travel back to this country. Malaysia offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. From its bustling cities and mega towers, to its pristine beaches and rainforests. It is somewhat similar to the Philippines where I live but different in so many ways.
Malaysia is also known for its rich cultural heritage with a population comprising of various ethnic groups such as Malays, Chinese and Indians. And with such cultural diversity, comes amazing FOOD.
Anyway, before I get carried away. I better get to the point of why I am writing this blog.
Recently on my 10th (or so) visit to Malaysia, I was part of the FAMtrip (Familiarization Trip) organized by Philippine Airlines in coordination with Tourism Malaysia. During this trip, I rediscovered Malaysia as if it is my first time to travel in this country.
So, I thought of writing a blog on where to go it you are visiting Malaysia for the first time.
IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO VISIT MALAYSIA FOR THE FIRST TIME, HERE ARE 3 OF MY RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS:
Note: These recommendations are assuming that KL will be your kick off point.
KUALA LUMPUR
Of course, visiting the capital is a no brainer.
Most of the major flights coming in and out of Malaysia will bring you to Kuala Lumpur (KL). So, it is a shame if you’ll skip exploring the capital.
I can say that KL is where you can get most of what Malaysia can offer and the rest can be an easy drive away.
View of KL from KL TowerA visit to this bustling metropolis is a must for numerous reasons. First and foremost, the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and KL Tower stand tall as an architectural marvel, offering panoramic views of the city from their observation deck.
You can immerse yourself in diverse cultures as you explore the colorful street markets, where you can sample delectable street food and shop for unique souvenirs.
From the busy and packed shopping districts of Bukit Bintang to the serene nature parks and the cultural heritage of Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur presents a captivating blend of old and new, tradition and modernity, making it a destination that is worth visiting over and over again (like me!!)
Recommended Attractions in KL
KLCC / Petronas Twin Towers
KL Tower
Bukit Bintang
Batu Caves
Merdeka Square
Petaling Street/ China Town
Central Market
National Palace / Istana Negara
Jalan Alor
GEORGE TOWN, PENANG
Whenever I think of Penang, there are 2 things that come in my mind. FOOD and STREET ART. But mainly food haha.
I once remember a Malay friend of mine mentioned that Penang is Malaysia’s Stomach. Which is very Telling to the culinary experience waiting for you when you visit this small island state.
Penang is known for captivating fusion of history, culture, and culinary delights. One of the top things to do is simply exploring the UNESCO Heritage-listed city of George Town and find yourself walking along the charming colonial architecture that blends harmoniously with vibrant street art, temples and cafes. They even have a place called Harmony Street!
Penang is very iconic that even locals often visit Penang whenever their appetite for exploration kicks in.
Armenia Street
Harmony Street
Penang Hill / The Habitat
Kek Lok Si Temple
Chowrasta Market
Clan Jetties
Blue Mansion
Look for Street Art (they are everywhere)
Penang Tower /Rainbow Skywalk
Eat everything
Chulia Street/ Backpacker Street
Watch one of my Travel Eats episodes featuring the mouth watering food in Penang
MELAKA
If Penang is the Food Capital, Melaka on the other hand is the Historic Capital of Malaysia.
We didn't visit Melaka on this trip but I thought I should include it in the list. Like Penang, this is also a few hours drive away from Kuala Lumpur (just on the opposite side of Malaysia).
This historical city will capture visitors with its rich heritage, charming architecture and cultural diversity.
Melaka and George Town represent exceptional examples of multi-cultural trading towns in East and Southeast Asia, forged from the mercantile and exchanges of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures and three successive European colonial powers for almost 500 years, each with its imprints on the architecture and urban form, technology and monumental art. Both towns show different stages of development and the successive changes over a long span of time and are thus complementary. - UNESCO
When visiting Melaka, you will Immerse yourself in the city's unique blend of Chinese, Malay, and European influences. You will also discover the remnants of Portuguese and Dutch colonial history at iconic landmarks such as A Famosa and St. Paul's Church.
Jonker Street Night Market
Recommended Attractions in Melaka
St. Pauls Church
Jonker Street / Night Market
Kampung Balik Bukit
Red Square
Huang Tuah Center
Menara Taming Sari
River Cruise
Overall as one my favorite countries to visit, I am very biased with everything Malaysian. Kidding. But, I can say that as someone who always travels, Malaysia is on top of my list (except for the weather). I am in love with its diversity and how everyone lives together in harmony. It is a perfect example of mixing the modernity of today’s world and respecting and preserving its history.
If you haven’t considered visiting Malaysia, what are you waiting for? And if you are planning to visit Malaysia soon…..I AM EXCITED FOR YOU!
If you are going to visit Malaysia from the Philippines and want to experience these destinations with ease, you can contact these travel agents:
Step Up Internation Services Inc
stepupinternationalinc@gmail.com
Lindela Travel & Tours
jayceedesa@lindelatravel.com
Mulan Travel
nelliemulantravel@gmail.com
The Travel Guru
lydiadelacriz@thetravelguruinc.com
I Love Travel
ilovetravelntours@yahoo.com
Bon Voyage Travel
bonvoyage0811@yahoo.com
Larry's Classic Travel
jo@larrysclassictours.com
Destination Unlimited
reservations1@destinationsunli.com
Pan Pacific Holidays
cherriepptc@yahoo.com
Fiesta Tours and Travel
tourdesk@fiestatours.com.ph
FCM Travel Services
jimbanez@ph.fcm.travel
If you want to fly from Manila to Kuala Lumpur comfortably, Philippine Airlines is our Airline of choice. Philippine Airlines flies daily from Manila to Kuala Lumpur.
This trip is in collaboration with Philippine Airlines. Follow their instagram page @flypal and our trip at #flypaltonewdiscoveries . All editorials and photos are my own unless mentioned or sighted from sources.
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