From vibrant cities to tranquil islands, our recent trip through Malaysia was a beautiful blend of rich heritage, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality. Whether it was our first visit or a return trip, Malaysia surprised us at every turn — here’s a taste of what we experienced.
Kuala Lumpur: Modern, Multicultural, and Surprisingly Green
We began in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, and were immediately struck by how clean, modern, and fresh the city felt. While we expected a sprawling metropolis, KL offered a welcoming mix of towering skyscrapers, British colonial architecture, and serene green spaces. The iconic Petronas Twin Towers dominate the skyline and sit above KLCC – a hub of shopping, dining, and light shows in the fountains below.
The city is buzzing but feels extremely safe and easy to explore, with hop-on-hop-off buses, a convenient monorail, LRT lines, and Grab taxis. Highlights included Merdeka Square, where Malaysia declared independence, and the bustling Central Market near Chinatown, alive with food stalls, shops, and temples.
A short drive out of the city took us to the Batu Caves, home to the famous golden Buddha statue. Climbing the 272 colourful steps was a bit of a tourist rite of passage, but still a must-see!
Cameron Highlands: Cool Air & Tea Plantations
Our next stop was the Cameron Highlands — a refreshing escape with its cool temperatures and rolling green tea plantations. The peaceful scenery offered a sharp contrast to KL’s urban energy, and though our stop was brief, the beauty of the highlands left a lasting impression.
Pangkor Laut: Private Island Paradise
From the highlands, we travelled to the island of Pangkor Laut, accessible via private speedboat from Lumut Marina. This privately owned island is a hidden gem, home to just one luxurious resort. The atmosphere was serene and exclusive, with stunning overwater villas, attentive staff, and world-class dining.
The island itself is a tropical rainforest, and while not all beaches are safe for swimming, a scenic shuttle ride takes guests to Emerald Bay – a pristine cove perfect for relaxing, with loungers and a beachfront restaurant. A sunset cruise added an unforgettable touch to our stay here.
Penang: Heritage Meets Coastal Charm
Next up was Penang, which brought a change of pace. Arriving in the city felt like sensory overload after the calm of Pangkor Laut, but it soon won us over. The historic heart, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colourful colonial-era buildings, quirky street art, temples, and a thriving food scene that reflects the strong Chinese heritage of the area.
While George Town brimmed with culture and character, the beach resorts just 40 minutes away offered a different, more relaxed vibe. A highlight was our luxurious overnight stay at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel — a grand, colonial-style gem steeped in old-world charm.
Langkawi: The Laid-Back Island Escape
Our final stop was Langkawi, just a short 20-minute flight away, and a real “wow” moment. This tropical island paradise boasts soft white sands, lush rainforest, and a laid-back atmosphere that reminded us of Mauritius or Barbados. It’s a place where luxury resorts blend seamlessly with nature, and where the pace of life slows down.
Whether relaxing at the beach, exploring Kuah Town or enjoying the holiday vibes in Pelangi, Langkawi felt like the perfect place to unwind and reflect on an unforgettable journey.
Final Thoughts
Malaysia is a country of contrasts – modern yet historic, vibrant yet peaceful, multicultural yet distinctly Malaysian. From the bright lights of Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil beaches of Langkawi, every stop offered something different. The warmth of the people, the quality of the hotels, and the variety of experiences make Malaysia a destination we’d recommend time and time again.
By Alison Houston and Jayne Henshall from our Reservations Team
