Tourist guide to Peninsular Malaysia

Visitors to the wonderfully diverse state of Penang may not see any reason to leave. The island is blessed with gorgeous beaches, fascinating forts and temples plus five star hotels and restaurants. That said, there is a wealth of possibilities to discover outside Penang with deserted paradise islands, electrifying cities and unspoilt rainforests to explore. Malaysia is a country worth embracing at every opportunity.

Malaysia’s capital of Kuala Lumpur is only 100-years-old but displays sufficient glitz, glamour and entertainment to enthrall even the most travel-weary guest. But there are many cultural aspects to metropolis as well with world class museums, art galleries plus the best stage shows and international acts. And there is authentic cuisine from across the globe with top draw French, Mexican and Italian restaurants serving up gastronomic masterpieces on a daily basis.

Malaysia is also a place for getting back to nature and there are national parks and ancient rainforest where visitors can watch wild ox and leopards from concealed overnight hides. Or why not escape the tropical heat to the tranquil hill station of the Cameron Highlands, where hiking from mountain to waterfall is spilt up with pick-your-own fruit farms and lush tea plantations. Or perhaps head for the beach and snorkel amongst reef sharks, green turtles and manta rays.

Below are some choice destinations a short distance from Penang but for a thorough guide visit 1stopMalaysia.

Perhentian Islands
The tiny islands of Pulau Perhentian Besar and Kecil are found on the northeast coast of Malaysia and are a true haven of pure white sand with great diving and snorkelling… more

Melaka
The historic centre of Malaysia was the Orient’s first port-city where European traders would stock up on supplies. Today it remains a cultural delight for the senses… more

Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia’s capital city is an heady blend of traditional values and new age energy with top class shopping, nightlife and entertainment plus fantastic restaurants… more

Pulau Pangkor
The small island of Pulau Pangkor is found a short distance south of Penang on the peninsular’s west coast and is home to pristine beaches and warm welcomes… more

Cameron Highlands
Explore Malaysia’s famous hill station with cream teas, strawberry farms, tea plantations and plenty of trekking in the stunning landscape to work off those calories… more

Pulau Langkawi
The duty free island of Pulau Langkawi has a sleepy appeal and is just a short ferry ride from Penang with superb beaches and opportunities for shopping… more

Taman Negara
The national park of Taman Negara contains one of the planet’s oldest rainforests and holds an awe-inspiring range of wildlife and exotic plant species… more