In Partnership with Malaysia Airlines
Malaysia is a country that sneaks up on you. With destinations like Bali or Fiji constantly popping up on our Instagram feeds, Malaysia might not be your first thought when planning a holiday. But once you’re there, it’s hard to beat.
From 130 million year old rainforests to islands that look like they were photoshopped into existence, it’s the kind of place that you’ll need more than one trip to fully explore.
Take Langkawi, a large group of islands off the coast of Malaysia. You’ve no doubt seen tropical islands before, but there’s something special about these ones. Here, you can explore seemingly-endless white sand beaches, kayak through mangroves and spot White Bellied Sea Eagles diving into the water to catch their food. It’s a place that feels completely calm, like time doesn’t really matter.
And then there’s Sarawak, a state on Borneo, which is divided by Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. Here you’ll be able to escape the city and step into some of the most beautiful rainforests in the world. In fact, the three-day Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) is enough of a reason to make the trip.
Held in Kuching, against the backdrop of Mount Santubong, it’s a once in a lifetime experience. By day, the festival presents music workshops where you can learn different music styles from across the world, then food stalls serve up a range of traditional Malaysian dishes.
As the sun sets, the music kicks off and the rainforest transforms into a natural amphitheater, where artists take the stage playing everything from bamboo flutes to electronic house music and African drums. It’s a reminder that some of the best moments happen when you’re surrounded by strangers in a place you’ve never been.
Kuala Lumpur has a whole different vibe. The city somehow balances complete chaos and calm. The iconic Petronas Towers are ultra modern, and the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers. Walk a few steps into a hawker market and you’re instantly grounded by the smell of charred noodles and the sound of metal ladles against woks.
Rooftop bars, street art and mosques all share the same city, and it works in a way only Kuala Lumpur can pull off. You’ll have no trouble keeping yourself busy.
For foodies and lovers of architecture, Penang is the best place to visit. George Town in particular is a living, breathing art gallery, with bright and colourful buildings and food stalls around every corner. Once you get there, clear your afternoon, take a walk around, inhale a bowl of laksa and visit a temple that feels like a different era.
What really sets Malaysia apart isn’t just its landscapes or cities, it’s the people. With a cultural mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous communities, you’ll encounter people from all walks of life.
From the local guide taking you off the beaten path, the market vendor sharing the story behind a dish, or musicians at a festival inviting you to dance, Malaysia’s magic is in the connections you’ll make.
Luckily, getting to Malaysia is easier than ever when you’re flying with Malaysia Airlines. Their seamless connections to 16 cities in Malaysia from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth mean you’re in good hands from the moment you step on board. The only question now is: when are you going?
Malaysia Airlines have launched a competition to make your next escape sooner than you might think. Four winners have the chance to win double return flights to Malaysia, Kolkata, Paris or Da Nang^. Enter now and see what makes this country unforgettable.
For your chance for you and a friend to live it up in some of the world’s most spectacular cities, enter here to win. Visit malaysiaairlines.com or follow @malaysiaarlines on Instagram or Facebook to get inspired for your next trip.
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