It took me a while to write this article, to collect all the experiences and advice that I hope can be useful to those who are organising a trip to Malaysia . Our initial plan was simple: a flight to Kuala Lumpur, just enough time to make a stopover before continuing on to Bali. Like many, Malaysia is often seen as just a stopover, a simple stop between one destination and another in South-East Asia.
But in the end we decided to stay, explore it thoroughly and spend two weeks discovering this amazing country. After this experience, I can say that Malaysia is one of the most underrated places in the region and truly deserves to be considered a final destination, not just a stopover. In this post, I will tell you about our itinerary and share some practical tips for those who want to explore this unique destination.
What you will find in this post:
Penang: Georgetown's multiculturalism, wonderful temples and lots and lots of food
Malaysian Borneo: An Unforgettable Adventure in Bako National Park, Semenggoh Wildlife Center and Peraya Homestay
Perenthian Islands: An Earthly Paradise Among Marine Animals and Enchanting Beaches
Kuala Lumpur: between temples, modern architecture, street food and many markets
The map with all the places visited (yes, including restaurants!)
Introduction and useful information
Without further ado, let's get started with the useful information. I've summarised everything about planning a trip, from flights to transportation, from accommodations to activities, trying to answer the most frequently asked questions. I hope these tips will be useful for organising a similar trip.
🗺️ Trip and Itinerary Planning
For this trip I admit I did a lot of research, probably more than any other trip I've ever planned. I read blogs, watched videos, asked for advice and really dedicated myself. For planning, one of the sites that was useful to me was Viaggi Avventure nel Mondo , just to have some reference points.
We had an ambitious goal: we wanted to see a lot of things, maybe too many, and in the end the itinerary we chose was quite demanding: 4 internal flights and 6/7 hotels. Malaysia is huge and varied, and we wanted to explore modern metropolises, tropical islands and wild jungles. Every move, even if tiring, led us to discover something unique.
Given the season, October, the transition month between the dry season and the monsoons, we opted for Penang , Borneo , the Perenthian Islands and a few days in Kuala Lumpur before leaving again.
✈️ Book your flight to Philippines
One of the first and most important steps of the organisation was booking the international flight. We started monitoring the fares well in advance and, about 8/9 months before departure, we managed to book a flight with Saudia from Milan to Kuala Lumpur, with a stopover in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Thanks to the advance booking, we found a fantastic deal, spending only €530 for the return flight, a really convenient price for such a long trip.
🛫 Domestic flight planning
For internal travel in Malaysia, the flights were super convenient. We took 4 internal flights between Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Borneo, Perenthian Islands and back to Kuala Lumpur, with prices ranging from 10 to 50 euros maximum each way.
Initially, however, I was a bit skeptical about Air Asia. I had read several reviews online that talked about frequent cancellations and poor service, and I had prepared myself for the worst, so much so that I had even booked a few "backup" flights in case they had cancelled some of our flights. In reality, in the end, we had a great time. Air Asia turned out to be more reliable than I thought and, in fact, exceeded my expectations, even proving to be better than companies like Ryanair. In 4 flights, there was only one small delay, which was however well communicated, without creating too many inconveniences. Overall, it was a positive surprise, so much so that in the end we really enjoyed the trip without worries
🏨 Accommodation booking
Since our trip was quite tight, the choice of accommodations was crucial. We alternated relaxing days (a few) with more intense days of excursions, so we chose accommodations that would offer us comfort during moments of rest (mainly the accommodation on the Perenthian Islands) and strategic locations for the more active days (for example in Kuching). We booked all the accommodations through Booking or AirBnB. The links to the accommodations can be found further down in the post.
🧳 Preparing for your trip: things to know before you leave
Before leaving, it was essential to prepare properly. We paid attention to a few important things:
Vaccines and health: There are no mandatory vaccines for Malaysia, but after consulting the doctors, we decided to do some precautionary vaccinations. We chose Hepatitis A (I already had it), the typhoid vaccine (to be repeated every so many years) and the vaccination against Meningitis (also already done before the Philippines), also useful in Italy. For Malaria, however, we did not do prophylaxis, since the areas we visited are not high risk. Obviously, every decision must be made based on the recommendations of your doctor.
Mosquito Protection: Mosquitoes in Malaysia, as in the Philippines, are a mystery. Although I used AUTAN Tropical spray last year, coming back with over 20 bites, this year I decided to play it safe and bought a 100% Deet on Amazon (25 euros a bottle, SUPER expensive, but it works great!).
But be warned: it burns if you put it on your face or under your clothes, so be careful! If you need it, find the link here .
Lactic Ferments and Nutrition: As always before a trip like this, I do a good cycle of lactic ferments, which I then continue when I'm there and for a few days after I return.
Visa Situation: It is not necessary to get a visa (at least in October 2024), we only filled out the E-Form online (MDAC), the link can be found here , but I obviously recommend you check the website https://www.viaggiaresicuri.it/ for updated information.
Travel Insurance: A very important addition that should not be missed is travel insurance. I now always travel with HeyMondo , which offers full coverage for medical emergencies, flight delays, and even adventure sports.
Buying an e-SIM: If you want to make your life easier with an e-SIM, we bought one on HolaFly before we left, but there are plenty of other options online.
Car Rides: Download Grab, there are tons of drivers available at very affordable prices.
Clothing for Borneo: For Borneo, we brought waterproof/Gore-Tex shoes, which were essential for dealing with the muddy terrain and puddles during the hikes. Waterproof or lightweight pants (the ones from Decathlon that become shorts are great), a K-Way and lightweight long sleeves to protect your skin from mosquitoes without suffering from the heat. A sun hat and a waterproof backpack (or bags to protect it) were essential to keep your items dry. And don't forget a head torch for night hikes in the jungle.
💸 Total cost of the trip
Here is the question of questions. How much did we spend? We estimated a total cost of about €2,500, covering flights to Kuala Lumpur, internal flights, accommodation (we chose solutions that on average cost about €30/40 per night per person), food (€15-20 per day), insurance, e-sim, tours and other activities (especially in Borneo and Perenthian) and internal transport (taxis, boats).
The itinerary in brief
We spent two weeks in Malaysia, enjoying culture, nature and incredible food. Here is a summary of our itinerary, day by day, to give you an idea of how we organized our trip. In case you don't want to read all the details below!
Penang (Days 2-4)
Day 1 : Arrival and travel to Penang
Days 2-4 : Exploring Georgetown, the cultural capital of Penang.
What we saw : Street art in Georgetown, Little India, Chinatown, mosques and temples.
What we did : Walks through the historic districts, visit to Kek Lok Si Temple and the Chaiya Mangalaram and Dhammikarama temples.
Where we ate : Red Garden Food Court (for Penang Laksa), Auntie Gaik's (Michelin-starred restaurant), Slow Coffee Person (artisan coffee), Backdoor Bodega (speakeasy bar).
Where we stayed: The Coffee Atelier, a boutique hotel in the heart of Georgetown.
Borneo (Days 4-8)
Day 4 : Fly to Kuching, start of our Borneo adventure
Days 5-7 : Tour to Bako National Park and visit Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and Peraya Homestay.
What we saw : Tropical jungles, semi-free orangutans, rafting on bamboo rafts, visit to the traditional Long House.
What we did : Hiking in the park, observing local wildlife, experiencing life in a Long House with locals.
Where we ate : Traditional dishes cooked by Peraya's family, lunches and dinners based on the freshest and local ingredients.
Where we stayed: Kuching as a base, Bako National Park (spartan stay), Peraya Homestay (traditional long house).
Perenthian Islands (Days 8-12)
Day 8 : Fly to Kota Bharu, transfer by boat to Perenthian Islands
Days 9-11 : Relax between snorkeling and enchanting beaches
What we saw : White sandy beaches and crystal clear waters (Long Beach, Coral Bay, Chamel Beach), marine fauna (turtles, sharks).
What we did : Snorkeling, boat trips, visit to Fisherman's Village, rafting on bamboo rafts.
Where we ate : Local resorts, fresh dishes cooked to order with typical local ingredients.
Where we stayed: Crocodile Rock Villas (beach bungalows on Perenthian Kecil).
Kuala Lumpur (Days 12-14)
Day 12 : Arrive Kuala Lumpur, check in to hotel
Days 13-14 : Exploring the capital of Malaysia
Day 15: Return flight
What we saw : Petronas Towers, KL Tower, Masjid Negara, Batu Caves, Chinatown.
What we did : Walking through the historic districts, visiting temples, shopping in the markets of Chinatown and Bukit Bintang.
Where we ate : Jalan Alor (street food), Khan Jee 3 (Pakistani restaurant), La Gula by The Hungry Tapir (vegan restaurant), avoided Al Sattar.
Where we stayed: Santa Grand Hotel (Bukit Bintang area, central and convenient location).
As we wrap up our trip, each destination has provided us with unique experiences, and we are super excited to share the details. If you are curious to learn more, keep reading to discover the places, foods, and adventures we had!
Our complete itinerary
Penang: Georgetown's multiculturalism, wonderful temples and lots and lots of food
Penang is a fascinating corner of Malaysia, known for its capital Georgetown , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its history, multiculturalism and, of course, cuisine. Here are some tips on what to do, where to eat and where to stay during your stay on the island.
What to see in Georgetown
Georgetown is the beating heart of Penang, a perfect example of multiculturalism. Walking through its streets is like traveling through time, passing from Little India , with its bright colors and spicy scents, to Chinatown , where the call of Chinese traditions blends with ancient temples. Here you can also find mosques, Christian churches and Hindu shrines, all a few steps away from each other, creating a unique atmosphere of coexistence and cultural exchange. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the famous street art of Georgetown, a true open-air museum!
Day trips out of town
Kek Lok Si Temple
Just outside the capital is the famous Kek Lok Si Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Situated on a hill, the temple offers spectacular views of Georgetown and a truly unique spiritual experience.
Chaiya Mangalaram and Dhammikarama Temple
In the area, don't miss two fascinating temples that are located opposite each other: the Chaiya Mangalaram Thai Buddhist Temple and the Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple . Both are places of great spirituality and beauty, with tranquil gardens and imposing statues that will make you feel completely immersed in an atmosphere of peace.
🍲 🍻 Where to eat and drink in Georgetown
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Red Garden Food Court : Penang is a true food capital. For a local experience, don't miss this place, an open-air market where you can taste typical dishes such as Penang Laksa for only €3 per plate.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Auntie Gaik's : If you're looking for a slightly more refined dining experience (but not too much, as everyone eats together at large tables) try the world-famous Auntie Gaik's, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves delicious, authentic dishes. Book in advance or arrive early (around 6pm) to avoid long queues (like us).
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Slow Coffee Person : If you are a coffee and matcha tea lover (the best I have ever tasted!), this is the right place for a break: a small hidden place with artisanal coffee, delicious pastries and an intimate atmosphere. Don't go there if you are in a hurry, as the name says - they take their time!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Backdoor Bodega is a speakeasy bar hidden behind a clothing store, where the drinks are truly out of this world (and ice-approved).
🏠 Where we stayed
For our stay, we chose Coffee Atelier , a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Georgetown. Although it was the most expensive of our stays, its tradition, impeccable cleanliness and amazing breakfast make it an experience not to be missed. A great base for exploring the city. Rating 9+.
Malaysian Borneo: An Unforgettable Adventure at Bako National Park, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and Peraya Homestay
One thing was certain: we wanted to visit Borneo. We knew it would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, an opportunity that would probably never come around again. Organising this part of our vacation was not easy; Borneo is a vast and varied destination, and choosing what to visit in just five days was a challenge. After doing a lot of research, we decided to focus on the southern part of Malaysian Borneo, specifically the Sarawak region, taking a flight from Pangkor directly to Kuching . This city became our perfect base for exploring the natural parks and local villages, which allowed us to experience the true spirit of Borneo.
Since we were completely inexperienced about Borneo, and to optimise our time, we chose to rely on a local agency. After evaluating several options, we turned to Borneo Adventure , an agency that organised two exclusive tours for us, one private and the other in a group, which luckily also became the second private. This allowed us to live a completely tailor-made experience without having to worry about logistics and transportation.
Tour 1: Bako National Park
Our first tour was to Bako National Park , a destination that captivated us from the first moment. Located about an hour's drive from Kuching, the park is accessible by a short boat ride, which adds a touch of adventure right from the start. Once we arrived, we were struck by the pristine beauty of the park, which offers an exceptional variety of ecosystems, from mangroves to dense tropical jungles.
During our two-day stay, we explored several trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging ones, including a night trail that allowed us to experience the jungle in a completely different atmosphere (and I learned to find spiders in the dark!!). We also had the opportunity to observe several species of monkeys, one of which surprised us during a walk in the heart of the forest.
NB: The experience of staying in the park was a little more basic than we expected. The accommodation facilities are quite basic and, unfortunately, not particularly clean. The sheets were in questionable condition and there was no hot water, so we had to adapt to the situation, sleeping in our clothes and trying not to use the water that came out brown. So if you want to stay in the park, keep this in mind!
Tour 2: Semenggoh Wildlife Center and Peraya Homestay
The second tour organised by Borneo Adventure was without a doubt our favourite. The day started with a visit to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre , famous for its orangutan rescue and release programme into semi-wildlife. It was an incredible experience and we were lucky enough to see six or seven orangutans during our stay. Seeing them so close, in their natural habitat, and with all their power was beautiful and I highly recommend it.
I also leave you a video below, to help you better understand their elegance and majesty.
Afterwards, we headed to the small village of Peraya , where we had the opportunity to stay in a traditional Long House . These houses, built entirely of wood and bamboo, were the beating heart of the ancient communities of Borneo. The family that hosted us made us feel at home, cooking for us exquisite typical dishes, prepared with the freshest and local ingredients. Life in the long house allowed us to come into contact with the traditions of the people of Borneo and to live an authentic experience, far from the most beaten tourist circuits.
During our stay in Peraya, we also explored the surrounding jungle. Unlike the well-marked trails in Bako, the trails here were much wilder and more challenging, so much so that in some parts I felt a certain fear. I will just tell you that our guide was a sixty-year-old with a machete ready to cut down everything in his path; he was the real tiger of Malaysia 🥷🏻
The best part of this tour, however, was rafting on bamboo rafts built on the spot by the locals, a tradition that allowed us to glide along the river while observing the breathtaking landscape. Along the way, we stopped on a bank where we were cooked and served a traditional lunch cooked inside bamboo canes. Tea was also served in pieces of bamboo cane, as natural glasses, a symbolic gesture that made us feel even more immersed in the local culture.
This part of the trip was, without a doubt, the most magical and authentic we experienced in Malaysia, and certainly one of the most beautiful experiences of our entire stay.
Perenthian Islands: An Earthly Paradise Among Marine Animals and Enchanting Beaches
Since the plan for the first week was quite demanding, we wanted to include a few days of relaxation in the vacation (you know me!).
That's why we chose the Perenthian Islands , which are located off the east coast of Malaysia, and are a true tropical paradise. With their crystal clear sea, white sand and impressive marine biodiversity, they are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in the country. Here's everything you need to know to organise a visit to these splendid islands.
🚤 How to get there
The Perenthian Islands are easily accessible from mainland Malaysia. The most common departure point is Kuala Besut , a small town on the east coast, where boats depart for the islands. From Kuala Lumpur, you can either fly to Kota Bharu or take a bus directly to Kuala Besut, from where the boat ride takes about 30-45 minutes. We flew from Kuching to Kota Bharu and then took a taxi (which cost us around €20). Boats depart regularly during the tourist season and are a quick and convenient way to get there.
🏝️ The most beautiful beaches of Perenthian Kecil
Palau Perenthian Kecil is famous for its pristine beaches, perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. The most beautiful beaches we visited are:
Coral Bay : A quiet bay, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. The white sand and crystal clear water are ideal for snorkeling and admiring colourful fish and coral. Although it is not very crowded, it offers a spectacular view, especially at sunset, when the sky is tinged with warm hues. It is easily accessible on foot or with a comfortable taxi boat.
Chamel Beach : A hidden and wild corner, perfect for those who love unspoiled nature. This beach is less touristy and more intimate, reachable through a short path in the jungle. Its white sand and transparent water create an atmosphere of total relaxation, far from the crowd. Here too, snorkeling and diving offer the opportunity to discover fascinating marine fauna.
Long Beach : The most famous beach on the island, ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling and enjoying the panoramic view of the turquoise sea. The golden sand and crystal clear water attract many tourists, but the beauty of the place remains unspoiled. Long Beach is also the center of social life, with numerous restaurants and bars where you can relax and have fun. It is easily accessible on foot or by taxi boat.
These beaches are easily accessible on foot, but you can also opt for the convenient taxi boats that connect the various bays, especially if you don't feel like walking in the tropical heat.
🤿 What to do and what to see
The Perenthian Islands are the ideal place for those who love the sea and nature. During our stay, we decided to focus on outdoor activities and marine excursions.
Boat Trips : Boat trips are a great way to explore the beauty of the islands and discover hidden corners. We took several tours, including one that took us snorkeling at Coral Garden , Turtle Point and Shark Point , where we were lucky enough to spot turtles and sharks in a pristine marine environment. Another trip took us to Rawa Island , a corner of paradise further away from the main beaches, where the crystal clear water and absolute tranquility make it the perfect place for a day of relaxation and snorkeling. Boat trips generally cost between 15 and 20 euros and allow you to explore the natural beauty of the islands and its crystal clear waters.
Fisherman's Village Trip : A trip to Fisherman's Village is a unique opportunity to experience local life and taste typical dishes. The village also offers an authentic atmosphere, with local markets where you can buy souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local culture. Optionally, you can choose to take a boat trip in the morning with snorkeling and then be dropped off directly at the village.
📅 When to go
The Perenthian Islands are open to tourists from March to October . During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities such as snorkeling and boat trips. We visited the islands in October , a transition period between the dry and monsoon seasons. This was a great time to avoid the crowds. Many resorts were closed or in the process of closing, which allowed us to enjoy a quiet and intimate experience, with almost deserted beaches. Also, due to the lack of boats, the boat trips were more relaxing and we had a better chance of spotting fish and other marine life, such as turtles and sharks. If possible, I recommend visiting the Perenthian Islands in September and October , when the islands are less crowded and the water is still perfect for diving.
🏠 Where we stayed
There are several accommodation options on the Perenthian Islands, but we chose to stay on the smaller island, Kecil , which offers resorts at more affordable prices than the main island Besar . Here, most of the resorts are wooden bungalows, perfectly integrated into the natural environment. The facilities are well-kept, with private bathrooms and often a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner. We opted for the Crocodile Rock Villas (€30 per night per person).
Kuala Lumpur: between temples, modern architecture, street food and many markets
We decided to spend the last three days of our trip in Kuala Lumpur, a city that perfectly mixes tradition and modernity. Between futuristic skyscrapers, historical temples and a food scene that ranges from street food to international cuisines, Kuala Lumpur is a city to explore with curiosity and without haste.
🎡 What to do and what to see
Kuala Lumpur is a city that offers many places of interest; among all of them you absolutely must not miss these:
the Petronas Twin Towers , a symbol of the city's modernity, where you can climb up to the observation deck for a spectacular view.
If you didn't book your entrance to the Petronas in time (like us), you can go up the KL Tower , which has an equally beautiful view, also of the Petronas.
Another must is the Masjid Negara (National Mosque), a fascinating example of modern Islamic architecture.
If you are a culture buff, don’t forget to visit the Batu Caves (beautiful and easily accessible by Grab), a complex of caves and temples located on a hill, reached by climbing a long staircase, one of the most iconic experiences in the city.
And then stroll through the China Town neighbourhood, which is a beautiful experience in itself.
🛍️ Where to shop
Kuala Lumpur offers plenty of shopping opportunities, with vibrant markets and malls where you can find unique souvenirs, local handicrafts and fine fabrics. Here are some of the best places to shop:
Central Market : A must-see covered market, famous for its stalls selling handicrafts, handmade jewellery and traditional fabrics. It is particularly lively on weekends, with stalls and temporary stands adding to the atmosphere.
Petaling Street : Located in the heart of Chinatown, this famous street offers an open-air market with cheap goods such as clothes, accessories, souvenirs and handicrafts, all in a lively and crowded environment.
Jakel Mall : A large shopping mall ideal for those looking for fine fabrics and textiles. You will find a wide selection, from cottons to brocades, perfect for those looking for traditional clothing materials or unique souvenirs.
🏠 Where we stayed
For our stay in Kuala Lumpur, we chose to stay at Santa Grand Hotel Kuala Lumpur , located in the Bukit Bintang district. This area is perfect for getting around, thanks to its central location and proximity to many of the city's main tourist attractions. Bukit Bintang is also a lively area, full of restaurants, shops and malls, making it easy to explore Kuala Lumpur on foot or by public transport. The hotel was comfortable, good value, with a generous and varied breakfast, and allowed us to enjoy the city in a practical and comfortable way.
🍲 🍻 Where (not) to eat in Kuala Lumpur
⭐⭐⭐ Jalan Alor : The most famous street for street food, where you can enjoy typical Malaysian dishes such as satay, nasi lemak and char kway teow. A true mecca for food lovers, with stalls offering an endless variety of delicacies. Although there may be a risk 💩, it's up to you whether you take the risk or not!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Khan Jee 3 : A Pakistani restaurant that surprised us with tasty and suuuuuper cheap dishes. If you like spicy flavours and international cuisines, this place is a great choice for a cheap lunch.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ La Gula by The Hungry Tapir : GREAT GREAT plant-based restaurant, and also very cute, offering creative and tasty dishes, completely plant-based, with a truly unique presentation and flavour. Excellent coffees.
⭐ At Sattar DO NOT EAT HERE!!!! As you know, on this blog I bring you positive reviews, but also negative ones - for your health 😆 Despite having excellent reviews, our experience with this restaurant was not positive - one emoji: 💩. Sorry for the "French", but we prefer to be honest!
Map with all the places visited
And here is the map with all the places we visited, places we stayed, restaurants, bars and more. I hope it helps :)
Acknowledgements: As always, a huge thank you to my travel princess par excellence. Who always leaves me space to organise everything and has so much patience with me during my travels - even when I'm really a pain in the ass ♥️
XX,
Giulia
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