Visit Malaysia: 4 reasons to put Malaysia on your travel map this summer
Malaysia’s multiculturalism added to its unique natural wealth of unspoilt breathtaking landscapes, tropical climate and tourist attractions; including excellent shopping expeditions promote the country’s popularity with tourists from around the world. A visit to this Southeast Asian and you can easily see why Malaysia is the 11th most visited country in the world.
A contributing feature to Malaysia’s charm is the world of contrasts to be found here; where soaring skyscrapers offset the rustic charisma of stilted wooden houses and where glamorous luxurious five-star hotels sit mere metres away from ancient coral reefs.
Land of Festival fun
The numerous colourful celebrations hosted by this melting pot of cultures is a superb way to witness how the different cultures, religions and traditions have merged and co-exist harmoniously. The number of annual events and festivals do not cease to amaze first-time visitors to Malaysia. Many of these centre on the cultural traditions of Malaysia’s potpourri of races. The majority of Malaysians are Muslims so the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festival which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan is an event celebrated on an enormous scale. Other major festivals include the Chinese New Year, Deepavali (Hindu festival of Light), Wesak Day (Buddhist ceremony), Thaiponggo (a harvest festival out of the Hindu religion), Penang International Dragon Boat Festival and the National Water Festival (highlights the importance of this natural resource).
Shopping expeditions to set the heart aflutter
The capital city, Kuala Lampur, is Malaysia’s answer to a shopper’s paradise. With shopping a favourite leisure activity of the local inhabitants during the weekend and on public holidays, it is not surprising that the city houses huge shopping malls to offer an awesome shopping adventure. There are about 50 shopping centres here, ranging from the basic to the elegant gigantic megamall. Some of the more popular shopping malls for tourists include Pavilion KL, Suria KLCC (located directly beneath the Petronas Twin Towers), Fahrenheit88 and Berjaya Times Square. Visitors who love shopping as much as the locals do will find much to take delight in.
An array of adventure activities to thrill
Malaysia’s diverse landscapes offer an array of adventure activities destined to satisfy a thrill-seeking tourist’s desires. Verdant tropical rainforests, mountains and an extensive list of beaches and islands provide ultimate adventures in hiking, mountain biking, swimming, surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, yachting, white water rafting and jet skiing.
A nature and bird lover’s paradise
Bird and nature enthusiasts can take pleasure in the many bird parks and sanctuaries around Malaysia. Tasek Perdana Lake Gardens with its dozens of exotic species and lush gardens, Penang Bird Park housing designed aviaries for over 400 species of birds, and ornamental gardens; and Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary were in addition to birds, a visitor can spot otters, long-tailed macaque and ridge-back dolphins form part of the long list of top tourist attractions.
Experience the magic of Malaysia and put this sought after destination on your travel map this summer.
