Malaysia is a country of contrasts, bathed in the warm tropical sun,
endowed with 3,000 kilometers of coastline, several historic cities, a
unique cultural mix, a string of cool hill resorts, the world’s oldest
rainforest and even Southeast Asia’s highest mountain.
Located in the heart of South-East Asia, it comprises two parts:
Peninsular Malaysia, bordering with Thailand in the North and Singapore
in the South; and East Malaysia, with with the states of Sarawak and
Sabah sharing the island of Borneo, with Indonesia.
Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to
visit in South-East Asia. Malaysian society is based on a vibrant and
interesting fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures
and customs. The Chinese are mostly active in trade and Malays mostly
in government. Government policies initiated in the 1970s have somewhat
blurred that distinction and one can find representatives of all races
in one field or the other.
Peninsular Malaysia is the most popular among visitors. Even
the peninsula itself is divided into the East Coast and West Coast, by
the Titiwangsa mountain range. The West Coast is more developed and
holds more attractions while the East Coast boasts a rustic charm. The
leatherback turtles make annual visits here to lay their eggs on parts
of the East Coast shores..
The country's capital city of Kuala Lumpur is located on the
West Coast and is the ideal starting point to the rest of Malaysia. The
city, best known by its acronym "KL", is bustling with activity and
holds many pleasant surprises for visitors, be it shopping, sightseeing
or relaxation.
When you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of KL,
you can head for the hills, or more precisely, Cameron Highlands or
Fraser's Hill. Both were developed as by the British as retreats during
the colonial era, and have maintained their charm as a cool and
relaxing getaway. Alternatively, you can take a break to Langkawi
Island, visit historic Melaka (once called "Malacca") or Penang (also
dubbed the Pearl of the Orient). Both Melaka and Penang are rich in
culture and history, being the sites where the Portuguese and British
first set a foothold on ancient Malaya. All the major towns and cities
are easily accessible by expressways and roads.
If you are the adventurous type, your destination should
be Sarawak or Sabah (in East Malaysia), with their spectacular
wildlife, native longhouses, the awe-inspiring Mulu caves and Mount
Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia. The mountain offers a
spectacular view of the sunrise to visitors who are game enough to make
the trek. Pulau Sipadan offers some of the best scuba diving in the
world.
This article is written by contributors of world66.com, modified by travelers-online.com editors and licensed under a Creative Commons License .
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