Malaysia is one of those places that you have to see to believe. It’s full of amazing sights not to mention great diving locations, but if you want to enjoy Malaysia without feeling like a tourist you’ve got to get into the underbelly. In other words, you need to be like a local. But whether you are looking for a holiday or want to avoid the typical tourist traps, what can you do to enjoy the things that the locals do?
Hit the Beach
When you’re in Kuala Lumpur, you may think that you need to avoid the beaches because the locals don’t go there but if you are in KL for an extended trip, you need to go to the beach for the weekend, specifically the Perhentian Islands. With crystal clear waters, and beautiful beaches, you can relax all day, but party all night. The nighttime dance parties are a pleasant surprise in this place, which remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. But make sure you avoid the area during the eastern monsoon between March and October, as most hotels are closed during this time.
Get a Cuppa!
If you can’t function without a great cup of coffee, not to mention free wifi, you can get your fill of caffeine. Throw a saucer in the air and it is likely it would land on one of the many hipster cafes! Feeka is a highlight in KL, especially as the baristas are friendly and will actually remember what you ordered!
Eat in the Street!
If you’re on the hunt for somewhere to stay long term, there are apartment projects in Malaysia continually popping up, but this means you have to get into the street and dive into the street food. Cheap, and more than cheerful, places like Jalan Alor provide great street food. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try that thing that looks a little exotic, but is probably fish. In fact, the stingray is always worth trying! But if you’re looking for a more restaurant feel, Lot10Hutong has everything you could want, and covers so many different cultures that you will get a great meal.
Get It Right at Night and Stay During the Day!
If you’re looking for great nightlife, Kuala Lumpur brings out the big guns! There’s plenty of bars and clubs and comes with its own distinct vegas-style sensations. Clubs like zouk can be pricy but comes with a complimentary beverage and a night to remember. But if you’re looking for a more laid-back feel, you can get plenty of that too! Negaba KL’s rooftop mojito bar is a highlight! But if you want to shop ‘til you drop, Bukit Bintang has shopping, bars, and restaurants in abundance. But a bit further away is Changkat Bukit Bintang, with a more relaxed vibe, with authentic local restaurants and relaxing bars.
Chill in the Park
Sometimes it’s the simple things! In KL, right at the base of Petronas Towers, the KLCC park provides a perfect place to lay back and watch the day go by. Take snacks and take it all in, and if you need a splash about, dip your feet in the fountain!
Head to Alor Setar, Kedah
Tourists usually go straight to Langkawi, but 34 miles southeast is Alor Setar, which has the Zahir mosque, the Royal Hall, the Big Clock Building, and the Sultan Museum, which boasts a beautiful fountain as its centrepiece. Head over to Kuala Kedah and take a walk through the ruins of a 17th-century Malay fort, which is the oldest in northern Malaysia, if you’re feeling like you need to explore the culture even further.
Hit the “British” Part!
The Cameron Highlands in Pahang has been one of the most popular places in Malaysia since the British surveyor, William Cameron, found the place back in 1885. While it is a tourist hotspot, you need to head for the mountains. If you’re looking for a break and need a cooler and fresher climate, this is it. With emerald-green tea plantations dominating the views, as well as strawberry and vegetable farms, you can take the opportunities to go hiking. And while you may think that this place is full of tourists it is the perfect opportunity to have a little taste of home, albeit in an indirect fashion. But you need the opportunities to exercise and explore higher altitudes. Because Malaysia can seem a little bit on the urban side, especially in Kuala Lumpur, learning to appreciate the more rural parts is just as important.
