Malaysia
Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is home to both a diverse culture, and diverse geography. It is a bustling, bubbling melting pot of races and religions, where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts of the country; the peninsula of Malaysia, and the north part of Borneo Island, with the South China Sea separating the two. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves. One of Malaysia’s key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden house built on stilts, and five-star deluxe hotels and luxury resorts sit nearby ancient reefs. The eclectic cultures, natural wonders and surprises in store for visitors make Malaysia a perfect holiday destination. Please browse our collection of Malaysia deluxe tours below.
Our recommended Malaysia luxury tours and vacations
Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is home to both a diverse culture, and diverse geography. It is a bustling, bubbling melting pot of races and religions, where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts of the country; the peninsula of Malaysia, and the north part of Borneo Island, with the South China Sea separating the two. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves. One of Malaysia’s key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden house built on stilts, and five-star deluxe hotels and luxury resorts sit nearby ancient reefs. The eclectic cultures, natural wonders and surprises in store for visitors make Malaysia a perfect holiday destination. Please browse our collection of Malaysia deluxe tours below.
Our recommended Malaysia luxury tours and vacations
Highlights of Borneo - 6 days
Kuching, Batang Ai, Kota Kinabalu, Sukau, Sandakan.
Borneo Explorer - 10 days
Kuching, Batang Ai, Mulu, Kota Kinabalu, Selingan Island, Sukau, Sandakan.
Best of Malaysia- 9 days
Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi.
Scenes of Malaysia - 9 days
Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi.
Malaysia North to South - 10 days
Singapore, Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi.
Malaysia & the Beauty of Pangkor - 10 days
Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Pangkor Island, Penang.
Kuching, Batang Ai, Kota Kinabalu, Sukau, Sandakan.
Borneo Explorer - 10 days
Kuching, Batang Ai, Mulu, Kota Kinabalu, Selingan Island, Sukau, Sandakan.
Best of Malaysia- 9 days
Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi.
Scenes of Malaysia - 9 days
Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi.
Malaysia North to South - 10 days
Singapore, Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi.
Malaysia & the Beauty of Pangkor - 10 days
Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Pangkor Island, Penang.
Highlights of Borneo
6 days - Kuching, Batang Ai, Kota Kinabalu, Sukau, Sandakan
6 days - Kuching, Batang Ai, Kota Kinabalu, Sukau, Sandakan
Experience the best of Borneo on this six night adventure. Borneo Island is comprised of three countries, Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. The northern part belongs to Malaysia, and is rich in it's great diversity of peoples and cultures, flower and fauna, and majestic forests. Kuching, capital of the East Malaysian State of Sarawak, is a city of old world charm, bustling markets, ornate temples, and historic buildings. Founded in 1827, for over one hundred years from the mid 1800's it was ruled by the White Rajahs. See colorful Malay and Chinese shophouses around the city, and enjoy great views across the Sarawak River from the beautifully landscaped esplanade. Located some 150 miles outside Kuching is Batang Ai, situated near the Indonesian border. The region is the home of the indigenous Iban people, who traditionally live in longhouses that house many families under one roof. A scenic ride in a longtail boat up the Lemanak River affords the opportunity to visit a longhouse, and learn more about the Iban. Kota Kinabalu is capital of the state of Sabah. Often simply called "KK", it is an inviting and friendly city, with sandy beaches, coral reefs, islands, and rainforests found nearby. A highlight of the area is scenic Mount Kinabalu; truly remarkable in it's biodiversity. Sandakan, located on the eastern coast of Sabah, is the departure point for a visit to the Orang Utans of Sepilok. Reddish-brown in color, these "men of the forest" make their home in the trees, and are sadly on the endangered species list.
Day 1: Kuching. Arrive at Kuching International Airport and transfer by sedan to your hotel in Kuching. Time permitting, embark on an afternoon tour of the city. Visits include Sarawak Museum (closed Fridays), the Market Place, Kuching City Mosque, and Tua Pek Kong Temple. Afterwards join a pontoon river cruise for a scenic view of The Astana, the residence of the former White Rajahs.
Day 2: Lemanak River/Batang Ai. Journey through lush green countryside dotted with padi fields, pepper gardens, rubber plantations, and flanked by rugged jungle-clad mountains. En route stop at the Serian farmer's market and visit a pepper garden before arriving at Lemanak jetty at mid-afternoon. Sail up the Lemanak River by longboat, passing through typical Borneo countryside with an ancient longhouse tucked behind almost every bend in the river. Longhouses typically house many families under a single roof, and as the families expand the house is extended. We'll visit one of the longhouses to see the "entire village under one roof" and also enjoy a demonstration of blowpipe shooting. Afterwards return down river to Batang Ai jetty, and continue by boat to your resort. (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Day 3: Kuching/Kota Kinabalu. Return to Kuching in the morning and catch a flight to Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival proceed to your hotel. (breakfast, lunch).
Day 4: Kota Kinabalu. Approximately two hours from the city is Kinabalu National Park, one of the world's most biologically diverse areas. Here, Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, towers majestically at over thirteen thousand feet. Touring the park we'll visit the Mountain Garden, home to many species of flowering rhododendrons, carnivorous pitcher plants, orchids and ferns. Afterwards enjoy a nature walk in the montane forest. (breakfast, lunch).
Day 5: Sandakan/Sukau. Early morning fly to Sandakan to visit the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, where orphaned orang utans from logging sites, plantations, and illegal hunting are rehabilitated before being released into the wild. Touring the centre we'll learn about these intelligent primates, and see how they are fed by the park wardens. In the afternoon proceed by boat to Sukau Village, and later take a two-hour cruise along a tributary of the Kinabatangan River to see the Proboscis monkeys settle down on the treetops. (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Day 6: Depart Sandakan. Return to Sandakan by boat this morning. There is time to enjoy a brief Sandakan City tour before heading to the airport for departure. (breakfast, lunch).
Meals: breakfast daily (5), five lunches, and two dinners.
Cost per person, double occupancy from $1,980.
Borneo Explorer
10 days - Kuching, Batang Ai, Mulu, Kota Kinabalu, Selingan Island, Sukau, Sandakan
10 days - Kuching, Batang Ai, Mulu, Kota Kinabalu, Selingan Island, Sukau, Sandakan
This program takes an in-depth look at the wonders of Malaysian Borneo. Borneo Island is comprised of three countries, Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. The northern part belongs to Malaysia, and is rich in it's great diversity of peoples and cultures, flower and fauna, and majestic forests. Kuching, capital of the East Malaysian State of Sarawak, is a city of old world charm, bustling markets, ornate temples, and historic buildings. Founded in 1827, for over one hundred years from the mid 1800's it was ruled by the White Rajahs. See colorful Malay and Chinese shophouses around the city, and enjoy great views across the Sarawak River from the beautifully landscaped esplanade. Located some 150 miles outside Kuching is Batang Ai, situated near the Indonesian border. The region is the home of the indigenous Iban people, who traditionally live in longhouses that house many families under one roof. A scenic ride in a longtail boat up the Lemanak River affords the opportunity to visit a longhouse, and learn more about the Iban. Mulu features one of the world's most extensive and spectacular limestone cave systems. Deer Cave has the largest cave passage known to man, and each evening nearly one million bats stream from the caves in a spectacular exodus. Kota Kinabalu is capital of the state of Sabah. Often simply called "KK", it is an inviting and friendly city, with sandy beaches, coral reefs, islands, and rainforests found nearby. A highlight of the area is scenic Mount Kinabalu; truly remarkable in it's biodiversity. An overnight at Selingan Island, or Turtle Island, is a must, and offers visitors a chance to see the magnificent marine turtles lay their eggs on the beach. Sandakan, located on the eastern coast of Sabah, is the departure point for a visit to the Orang Utans of Sepilok. Reddish-brown in color, these "men of the forest" make their home in the trees, and are sadly on the endangered species list.
Day 1: Kuching. Arrive at Kuching International Airport and transfer by sedan to your hotel in Kuching. Time permitting, embark on an afternoon tour of the city. Visits include Sarawak Museum (closed Fridays), the Market Place, Kuching City Mosque, and Tua Pek Kong Temple. Afterwards join a pontoon river cruise for a scenic view of The Astana, the residence of the former White Rajahs.
Day 2: Lemanak River/Batang Ai. Journey through lush green countryside dotted with padi fields, pepper gardens, rubber plantations, and flanked by rugged jungle-clad mountains. En route stop at the Serian farmer's market and visit a pepper garden before arriving at Lemanak jetty at mid-afternoon. Sail up the Lemanak River by longboat, passing through typical Borneo countryside with an ancient longhouse tucked behind almost every bend in the river. Longhouses typically house many families under a single roof, and as the families expand the house is extended. We'll visit one of the longhouses to see the "entire village under one roof" and also enjoy a demonstration of blowpipe shooting. Afterwards return down river to Batang Ai jetty, and continue by boat to your resort. (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Day 3: Kuching. Depart this morning to return to Kuching, arriving in the afternoon. The balance of the day is free to enjoy the city on your own. (breakfast, lunch).
Day 4: Miri/Mulu. Fly to Miri and connect to Mulu. This afternoon depart for a 1.8mi boardwalk, passing through limestone outcrops and peat swamp, to visit the Deer and Lang caves. Finish at the nearby observatory to see the bats make their evening exodus to search for food. Arrival back at the resort late-evening. (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Day 5: Mulu. Depart by longboat to visit the Wind and Clearwater caves, en route stopping for a short visit at a Penan settlement - a semi nomadic tribe of Sarawak. Return to the resort by mid-afternoon and enjoy the balance of the day to relax. (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Day 6: Miri/Kota Kinabalu. Fly to Miri and connect to Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival proceed to your hotel. (breakfast).
Day 7: Kota Kinabalu. Approximately two hours from the city is Kinabalu National Park, one of the world's most biologically diverse areas. Here, Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, towers majestically at over thirteen thousand feet. The mountain climbs from near sea level through different climatic zones, and we'll have a full-day to tour the park. From the montane oak-chestnut forest we'll move to to lowland and the tall hardwood tropical trees of the dipterocarp forest at Poring. Walk among the treetops by crossing the canopy walkway, and visit the Hot Springs where, time permitting, you can take a therapeutic dip in the natural springs. (breakfast, lunch).
Day 8: Selingan Island. Fly to Sandakan and proceed by boat (approx. 45 min) to Selingan Island. Upon arrival at the Turtle Island Park's Headquarters check into your chalet. The afternoon is free to relax, swim, or snorkel. This evening observe turtles laying their eggs, which will then be transferred to the Hatchery. If there are any young turtle hatchings we'll have the opportunity to watch the release of these turtles into the sea. (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Day 9: Sandakan/Sukau. Return to Sandakan to visit the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, where orphaned orang utans from logging sites, plantations, and illegal hunting are rehabilitated before being released into the wild. Touring the centre we'll learn about these intelligent primates, and see how they are fed by the park wardens. In the afternoon proceed by boat to Sukau Village, and later take a two-hour cruise along a tributary of the Kinabatangan River to see the Proboscis monkeys settle down on the treetops. (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Day 10: Depart Sandakan. Return to Sandakan by boat this morning. There is time to enjoy a brief Sandakan City tour before heading to the airport for departure. (breakfast, lunch).
Meals: breakfast daily (9), eight lunches, and five dinners.
Cost per person, double occupancy from $2,790.
Best of Malaysia
9 days - Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi
9 days - Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi
This 9-day program explores Peninsular Malaysia with visits to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and the tropical paradise of Langkawi in the Andaman Sea. Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia, and the country's most populous city. With humble beginnings as a tin-mining outpost in the 1800's, Kuala Lumpur has grown into a dynamic modern day city and economic powerhouse. Perhaps no building illustrates this better than the Petronas Towers, the tallest twin buildings in the world. Finance aside, Kuala Lumpur is a fascinating city with plenty to offer it's visitors; and is a melting pot of diversity, primarily made up of Malays, Chinese, and Indians, with a myriad of indigenous ethnic groups found in the Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak. The tropical island of Penang lies in the Indian Ocean, just off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It's capital, Georgetown, is a city steeped in history and tradition. Sections of Penang present a quaint picture from the past, where narrow side streets, trishaws, temples and traders plying their goods, seem to belong to a forgotten era. The island also boasts fabulous Chinese, Malay, and Nyonya cuisines. Langkawi, off the coast of Kedah, is a cluster of 99 islands with the best of many worlds; beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, mangroves rich in flora and fauna, and fascinating legends. Rustic and memorable views are found around the road that circles the island; small wooden houses framed by swaying palm trees, pristine rainforests, lush rice paddies, and farmers and fisherman going about their trade. Back in the resorts, enjoy the five-star conveniences; relax by the crystalline pool, dine on gourmet cuisine, visit the spa, take in a round of golf, or embark on one of the many excursions available.
Day 1: Kuala Lumpur. Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and transfer by sedan to your hotel. Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's capital and most populous city, and is often referred to as "KL."
Day 2: Batu Caves/Kuala Lumpur. Set out this morning to visit the Batu Caves; the caves and cave temples are formed by limestone reported to be 400 million years old. Visitors need to climb 272 steps to reach the entrance of the main cave, where Hindus have erected a sacred shrine devoted to Lord Muruga. Afterward visit Royal Selangor, the world's largest producer of pewter, where you will have an opportunity to see the craftsman at work. In the afternoon tour the city of Kuala Lumpur. Visits include the National Monument, Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Independence Square, the Selangor Club, and the King's Palace. Finish the day enjoying breathtaking views of the city from the Kuala Lumpur Tower. (breakfast).
Day 3: Penang. Fly to Penang, located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Penang,nicknamed the "Pearl of the Orient", is Malaysia's oldest British settlement and is known for it's wonderful culture and the culinary delights found in the popular open-air "hawker" food centers. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel in Penang. (breakfast).
Day 4: Penang. Embark on a tour of Penang today. Visits include the Khoo Kongsi (Dragon Mountain Hall) clan house, historic Fort Cornwallis, and the Thai temple of Wat Chayamangkalaram, which houses a 105-foot reclining Buddha. Proceed for a visit to the legendary Snake Temple, filled with the smoke of burning incense and a variety of pit vipers. The vipers are believed to be rendered harmless by the sacred smoke, but it is not advisable to touch the snakes nontheless. Back in the city visit the Pinang Peranakan Mansion to learn about the Peranakans, or Babas and Nyonyas; prominent communities of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world. (breakfast).
Day 5: Penang. Free day to explore on your own. (breakfast).
Day 6: Langkawi. Fly to Langkawi, a tropical paradise of white sands, clear waters, and lovely island sunsets located amongst a group of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea. Upon arrival transfer to your resort. (breakfast).
Day 7: Langkawi. Depart this morning for Oriental Village, located around a lake and set against the backdrop of Mountain Mat Cincang. From here take an exciting ride on the Langkawi Cable Car, traveling to 2,300 feet over a distance of 1.3 miles. Magnificent views can be enjoyed from atop the mountain's summit. Back at sea level visit Kuah Town to see Eagle Square and Underwater World, a marine showcase featuring both fresh and seawater fish and marine life. (breakfast).
Day 8: Langkawi. Free day to relax and enjoy your resort or explore on your own. (breakfast).
Day 9: Depart Langkawi. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (breakfast).
Meals: breakfast daily (8).
Cost per person, double occupancy from $1,650.
Scenes of Malaysia
9 days - Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi
9 days - Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi
Travel Peninsular Malaysia, from the vibrant capital of Kuala Lumpur to the lush green scenery and tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands; and from the well-preserved heritage buildings of Georgtown in Penang to the turquoise waters and tropical sunsets of Langkawi. Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia, and the country's most populous city. With humble beginnings as a tin-mining outpost in the 1800's, Kuala Lumpur has grown into a dynamic modern day city and economic powerhouse, with plenty to offer its visitors. Cooler temperatures can be found in the Cameron Highlands, the highland paradise that still retains the charms of an English village. Famous for its flowers and tea plantations, it is located about 180 miles from Kuala Lumpur, and makes for a lovely drive through the Malaysian countryside. The tropical island of Penang lies in the Indian Ocean, just off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Its capital, Georgetown, is a city steeped in history and tradition. Sections of Penang present a quaint picture from the past, where narrow side streets, trishaws, temples and traders plying their goods, seem to belong to a forgotten era. The island also boasts fabulous Chinese, Malay, and Nyonya cuisines. Langkawi, off the coast of Kedah, is a cluster of 99 islands with the best of many worlds; beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, mangroves rich in flora and fauna, and fascinating legends. Rustic and memorable views are found around the road that circles the island; small wooden houses framed by swaying palm trees, pristine rainforests, lush rice paddies, and farmers and fisherman going about their trade. Back in the resorts, enjoy the five-star conveniences; relax by the crystalline pool, dine on gourmet cuisine, visit the spa, take in a round of golf, or embark on one of the many excursions available.
Day 1: Kuala Lumpur. Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and transfer by sedan to your hotel. Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's capital and most populous city, and is often referred to as "KL."
Day 2: Batu Caves/Kuala Lumpur. Set out this morning to visit the Batu Caves; the aves and cave temples are formed by limestone reported to be 400 million years old. Visitors need to climb 272 steps to reach the entrance of the main cave, where Hindus have erected a sacred shrine devoted to Lord Muruga. Afterward visit Royal Selangor, the world's largest producer of pewter, where you will have an opportunity to see the craftsman at work. In the afternoon tour the city of Kuala Lumpur. Visits include the National Monument, Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Independence Square, the Selangor Club, and the King's Palace. Finish the day enjoying breathtaking views of the city from the Kuala Lumpur Tower. (breakfast).
Day 3: Cameron Highlands. Depart by road to the Cameron Highlands, the largest and most famous hill resort in the country, and leading producer of flowers and tea in Malaysia. En route stop in Tapah to see the local fruits including the King of Fruits, Durian - if in season. Continuing the drive visit a small Aborigine village and teahouse before arriving in Tanah Rata, the main town. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the peace and serenity of the Cameron Highlands. (breakfast).
Day 4: Penang. A full-day of sights and traveling takes us in a northerly direction up Peninsular Malaysia from the Cameron Highlands to Penang. Before departing the Highlands visit a tea plantation to watch the processing of black tea, later sampling different varieties of tea in the teahouse (tea factory closed on Mondays). Also visit the Rose Garden and Butterfly Farm, and a local fruit and vegetable market to see a variety of produce from the area. Before arriving in Penang we'll visit Orang Utan Island at Bukit Merah Laketown to see the primates and the in-house infant care unit. Cross the Penang Bridge and arrive into the island of Penang. (breakfast).
Day 5: Penang. Embark on a tour of Penang, the "Pearl of the Orient," today. Visits include the Khoo Kongsi (Dragon Mountain Hall) clan house, historic Fort Cornwallis, and the Thai temple of Wat Chayamangkalaram, which houses a 105-foot reclining Buddha. Proceed for a visit to the legendary Snake Temple, filled with the smoke of burning incense and a variety of pit vipers. The vipers are believed to be rendered harmless by the sacred smoke, but it is not advisable to touch the snakes nontheless. Back in the city visit the Pinang Peranakan Mansion to learn about the Peranakans, or Babas and Nyonyas; prominent communities of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world. (breakfast).
Day 6: Langkawi. Fly to Langkawi, a tropical paradise of white sands, clear waters, and lovely island sunsets located amongst a group of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea. Upon arrival transfer to your resort. (breakfast).
Day 7: Langkawi. Depart this morning for Oriental Village, located around a lake and set against the backdrop of Mountain Mat Cincang. From here take an exciting ride on the Langkawi Cable Car, traveling to 2,300 feet over a distance of 1.3 miles. Magnificent views can be enjoyed from atop the mountain's summit. Back at sea level visit Kuah Town to see Eagle Square and Underwater World, a marine showcase featuring both fresh and seawater fish and marine life. (breakfast).
Day 8: Langkawi. Free day to relax and enjoy your resort or explore on your own. (breakfast).
Day 9: Depart Langkawi. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (breakfast).
Meals: breakfast daily (8).
Cost per person, double occupancy from $1,760.
Malaysia North to South
10 days - Singapore, Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi
10 days - Singapore, Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi
A popular trail through Peninsular Malaysia, this journey begins with departure from Singapore off the southern tip and travels northward up the peninsula with a finish in Langkawi. Malacca’s colorful history has seen a progression of European rule, from the Portuguese, to the Dutch, and then the British. The historic city center is a mix of old and new, and contains a variety of cultural sights to explore. Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, began with humble beginnings as a tin-mining outpost in the 1800's. Today it stands as a dynamic modern day metropolis and economic powerhouse. A fascinating city with plenty to offer its visitors, it is a melting pot of diversity; primarily made up of Malays, Chinese, and Indians. Cooler temperatures can be found in the Cameron Highlands, the highland paradise that still retains the charms of an English village. Famous for its flowers and tea plantations, it is located about 180 miles from Kuala Lumpur, and makes for a lovely drive through the Malaysian countryside. The tropical island of Penang lies in the Indian Ocean, just off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Its capital, Georgetown, is a city steeped in history and tradition. Sections of Penang present a quaint picture from the past, where narrow side streets, trishaws, temples and traders plying their goods, seem to belong to a forgotten era. The island also boasts fabulous Chinese, Malay, and Nyonya cuisines. Langkawi, off the coast of Kedah, is a cluster of 99 islands with the best of many worlds; beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, mangroves rich in flora and fauna, and fascinating legends. Rustic and memorable views are found around the road that circles the island; small wooden houses framed by swaying palm trees, pristine rainforests, lush rice paddies, and farmers and fisherman going about their trade. Back in the resorts, enjoy the five-star conveniences; relax by the crystalline pool, dine on gourmet cuisine, visit the spa, take in a round of golf, or embark on one of the many excursions available.
Day 1: Singapore/Malacca. Depart Singapore, crossing the Johor Causeway which links Singapore to Peninsular Malaysia. After brief immigration formalities enter Johor Bahru, the southern most state of Malaysia. Proceed by road to Malacca and visit St. Paul’s Hill, Porta De Santiago, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, and Jonkers Street – popular for its antiques and local art & craft.
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur. Rejoin the highway and drive to Kuala Lumpur. Often referred to as “KL,” it is Malaysia's capital and most populous city. An afternoon tour of the city visits the National Monument, Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Independence Square, the Selangor Club, and the King's Palace. Finish the day enjoying breathtaking views of the city from the Kuala Lumpur Tower. (breakfast).
Day 3: Kuala Lumpur. This morning make a photostop at the Petronas Towers. A landmark of KL, the twin towers were until 2004 the tallest buildings in the world. Subject to availability, there may be an opportunity to visit the Skybridge between the two towers. Afterwards visit the Batu Caves; the caves and cave temples are formed by limestone reported to be 400 million years old. Visitors need to climb 272 steps to reach the entrance of the main cave, where Hindus have erected a sacred shrine devoted to Lord Muruga. Continue to Royal Selangor, the world's largest producer of pewter, where you will have an opportunity to see the craftsman at work. In the afternoon enjoy free time to explore the city on your own. (breakfast).
Day 4: Cameron Highlands. Depart by road to the Cameron Highlands, the largest and most famous hill resort in the country, and leading producer of flowers and tea in Malaysia. Stop in Tapah en route to see the local fruits including the King of Fruits, Durian - if in season. Continuing the drive visit a small Aborigine village and teahouse before arriving in Tanah Rata, the main town. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the peace and serenity of the Cameron Highlands. (breakfast).
Day 5: Penang. A full-day of sights and traveling takes us in a northerly direction up Peninsular Malaysia from the Cameron Highlands to Penang. Before departing the Highlands visit a tea plantation to watch the processing of black tea, later sampling different varieties of tea in the teahouse (tea factory closed on Mondays). Also visit the Rose Garden and Butterfly Farm, and a local fruit and vegetable market to see a variety of produce from the area. Before arriving in Penang we'll visit Orang Utan Island at Bukit Merah Laketown to see the primates and the in-house infant care unit. Cross the Penang Bridge and arrive into the island of Penang. (breakfast).
Day 6: Penang. Embark on a tour of Penang, the "Pearl of the Orient," today. Visits include the Khoo Kongsi (Dragon Mountain Hall) clan house, historic Fort Cornwallis, and the Thai temple of Wat Chayamangkalaram, which houses a 105-foot reclining Buddha. Proceed for a visit to the legendary Snake Temple, filled with the smoke of burning incense and a variety of pit vipers. The vipers are believed to be rendered harmless by the sacred smoke, but it is not advisable to touch the snakes nontheless. Back in the city visit the Pinang Peranakan Mansion to learn about the Peranakans, or Babas and Nyonyas; prominent communities of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world. (breakfast).
Day 7: Langkawi. Fly to Langkawi, a tropical paradise of white sands, clear waters, and lovely island sunsets located amongst a group of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea. Upon arrival transfer to your resort. (breakfast).
Day 8: Langkawi. Depart this morning for Oriental Village, located around a lake and set against the backdrop of Mountain Mat Cincang. From here take an exciting ride on the Langkawi Cable Car, traveling to 2,300 feet over a distance of 1.3 miles. Magnificent views can be enjoyed from atop the mountain's summit. Back at sea level visit Kuah Town to see Eagle Square and Underwater World, a marine showcase featuring both fresh and seawater fish and marine life. (breakfast).
Day 9: Langkawi. Free day to relax and enjoy your resort or explore on your own. (breakfast).
Day 10: Depart Langkawi. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (breakfast).
Meals: breakfast daily (9).
Cost per person, double occupancy from $2,120.
Malaysia & the Beauty of Pangkor
10 days - Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Pangkor Island, Penang
10 days - Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Pangkor Island, Penang
Experience the different sides of Peninsular Malaysia on this 10-day program. Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia, and the country's most populous city. With humble beginnings as a tin-mining outpost in the 1800's, Kuala Lumpur has grown into a dynamic modern day city and economic powerhouse. The city has plenty to offer its visitors, from great shopping, to world-class restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife. Cooler temperatures can be found in the Cameron Highlands, the highland paradise that still retains the charms of an English village. Famous for its flowers and tea plantations, it is located about 180 miles from Kuala Lumpur, and makes for a lovely drive through the Malaysian countryside. Off the coastal town of Lamut lies a gem of an island, Pangkor, the main island and the smaller, Pangkor Laut Island. The islands are blessed with lush rainforest, magnificent sweeping bays, and fine sandy beaches. Perfect for romantic occasions, the islands are truly a slice of heaven in Western Malaysia. The tropical island of Penang lies in the Indian Ocean, just off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Its capital, Georgetown, is a city steeped in history and tradition. Sections of Penang present a quaint picture from the past, where narrow side streets, trishaws, temples and traders plying their goods, seem to belong to a forgotten era. The island also boasts fabulous Chinese, Malay, and Nyonya cuisines.
Day 1: Kuala Lumpur. Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and transfer by sedan to your hotel. Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's capital and most populous city, and is often referred to as "KL."
Day 2: Batu Caves/Kuala Lumpur. Set out this morning to visit the Batu Caves; the caves and cave temples are formed by limestone reported to be 400 million years old. Visitors need to climb 272 steps to reach the entrance of the main cave, where Hindus have erected a sacred shrine devoted to Lord Muruga. Afterward visit Royal Selangor, the world's largest producer of pewter, where you will have an opportunity to see the craftsman at work. In the afternoon tour the city of Kuala Lumpur. Visits include the National Monument, Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Independence Square, the Selangor Club, and the King's Palace. Finish the day enjoying breathtaking views of the city from the Kuala Lumpur Tower. (breakfast).
Day 3: Cameron Highlands. Depart by road to the Cameron Highlands, the largest and most famous hill resort in the country, and leading producer of flowers and tea in Malaysia. En route stop in Tapah to see the local fruits including the King of Fruits, Durian - if in season. Continuing the drive visit a small Aborigine village and teahouse before arriving in Tanah Rata, the main town. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the peace and serenity of the Cameron Highlands. (breakfast).
Day 4: Cameron Highlands. This morning visit the market and a tea plantation to watch the processing of black tea (tea factory closed on Mondays). The balance of the day is free to relax and enjoy the beauty of the highlands. If you love to trek, there are several nature trails waiting to be explored. (breakfast).
Day 5: Pangkor Island. Depart for the coastal town of Lumut, famous for beautiful sea shells and coral. From Lumut travel by boat to Pangkor Island, a tropical island getaway for you to rest and enjoy its beauty and tranquility. (breakfast).
Day 6: Pangkor Island. Today is free day to relax at your resort, or join one of the activities or available excursions. (breakfast).
Day 7: Pangkor Island. A second free day to enjoy your resort and the island. (breakfast).
Day 8: Pangkor Island. Depart by road for Penang. Cross the Penang Bridge into Georgetown and transfer to your hotel. (breakfast).
Day 9: Penang. Embark on a tour of Penang, the "Pearl of the Orient," today. Visits include the Khoo Kongsi (Dragon Mountain Hall) clan house, historic Fort Cornwallis, and the Thai temple of Wat Chayamangkalaram, which houses a 105-foot reclining Buddha. Proceed for a visit to the legendary Snake Temple, filled with the smoke of burning incense and a variety of pit vipers. The vipers are believed to be rendered harmless by the sacred smoke, but it is not advisable to touch the snakes nontheless. Back in the city visit the Pinang Peranakan Mansion to learn about the Peranakans, or Babas and Nyonyas; prominent communities of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world. (breakfast).
Day 10: Depart Penang. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (breakfast).
Meals: breakfast daily (9).
Cost per person, double occupancy from $1,770.
