Malaysia: Where Adventure, Culture and Curry Collide

When it comes to travel, our Pentravel travel experts love getting out there and experiencing destinations for themselves – and Tanya Nothnagel did exactly that on her recent trip to Malaysia. From colourful temples and lively markets to skyline views and spicy street food, Tanya uncovered the vibrant mix of adventure, culture, and flavour that makes Malaysia such an unforgettable destination. Here’s what she had to say about her journey. 

Q&A with Tanya: Exploring Malaysia 

Q: What were your first impressions of Kuala Lumpur? 

A: Kuala Lumpur is absolutely buzzing! It’s where skyscrapers meet the street markets – a true mix of modern city life and local flavour. You can go from high-end shopping malls to hidden street markets selling everything from knock-off sunglasses to ice-cold fruity Durian drinks (locals say it smells like hell but tastes like heaven). 

Q: What are the must-see attractions in Kuala Lumpur? 

A: 

• Batu Caves: The rainbow-coloured steps lead you up to a stunning Hindu temple guarded by a GIANT golden statue. It’s a proper leg workout – feel that burn – and you might even make a cheeky monkey friend or two along the way. 

• KL Tower: For 360° panoramic views of the city – absolutely magnificent. 

• Petronas Twin Towers: The city’s most iconic site and a total Instagram selfie alert! 

• Cultural stops: Make sure you tick off the Chinese Temple, War Memorial, and the King’s Palace for a full KL experience. 

Q: Did you explore beyond Kuala Lumpur? 

A: Yes! I headed to Melaka, a UNESCO World Heritage city – it’s like time travel with a splash of colour. 

Q: What’s special about Melaka? 

A: It’s about a two-hour scenic drive from Kuala Lumpur, surrounded by endless palm trees (Malaysia is one of the world’s largest palm oil producers). The city feels like someone painted history with a big red brush! 
The Dutch Square’s red-brick charm is picture-perfect, and the Jonker Street Market is pure chaos in the best way – with river cruises, quirky souvenirs, and mouth-watering food and drinks everywhere you turn. 

Q: Any other spots you recommend visiting? 

A: Definitely Genting Highlands! It’s such a unique highland resort with something for everyone – shopping, great eateries, a theme park, and even local cultural experiences. Fun fact: it’s also the only licensed and largest gambling spot in the country! 

Q: How would you describe the overall vibe of Malaysia? 

A: Malaysia isn’t just a destination – it’s a vibe! Imagine sipping an ice-cold drink on a hot afternoon, bargaining at a market, chasing temples and beaches, or just soaking up the views of those magnificent skyscrapers. The energy sweeps you up and leaves you wondering why you didn’t visit sooner! 

Q: Any final travel advice? 

A: Don’t walk – run to your nearest Pentravel expert and get your booking sorted! Come and experience Asia, truly Asia, for yourself. 

Planning Your Malaysia Adventure? Here’s What You Need to Know 

If Tanya’s travels have inspired you to add Malaysia to your bucket list, here are a few practical travel tips and FAQs to help you plan your own adventure. From visa info and local customs to the best time to visit, we’ve got you covered. 

Do I need a visa for Malaysia? 

South African passport holders don’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Your passport just needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. 

Is Malaysia an expensive country? 

Not at all. Malaysia offers great value for money – from affordable street food and local transport to mid-range and luxury hotels. You can enjoy an incredible holiday without breaking the bank. 

Is Kuala Lumpur worth visiting? 

Absolutely! Kuala Lumpur is a lively blend of old and new – sleek skyscrapers, historic temples, street markets, and world-class dining all in one place. 

What languages are spoken in Malaysia? 

Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) is the official language, but you’ll also hear English, Mandarin, and Tamil widely spoken, especially in major cities and tourist areas. 

How do I get around Malaysia? 

Trains, buses, and Grab (the local ride-hailing app) make getting around easy and affordable. Domestic flights are also convenient if you’re travelling between cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi. 

Is English widely spoken? 

Yes! English is widely understood, especially in cities, hotels, and tourist attractions. 

What’s the best time of year to visit Malaysia? 

Malaysia doesn’t have a single “best” season – it has two distinct monsoon cycles, so the ideal time to visit depends on which part of the country you want to see. The country can be visited year-round if you plan around the region that’s enjoying drier weather. 

Are there any local customs or laws I should be aware of? 

Dress modestly when visiting temples or mosques, remove shoes before entering homes or sacred sites, and avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas. 

What is the must-visit places in Malaysia? 

Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Melaka, and Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) are top picks for their culture, nature, and food. 

What are the best beaches, hiking trails, or nature spots? 

Try Langkawi for beaches, Taman Negara for jungle trekking, Cameron Highlands for tea plantations, and Kinabalu Park for serious hiking and wildlife spotting. 

Experience Malaysia with Pentravel 

Ready to follow in Tanya’s footsteps? Whether you’re exploring Kuala Lumpur’s city buzz, cruising the colourful canals of Melaka, or relaxing on Langkawi’s beautiful beaches, Malaysia has something for everyone. 

Chat to your Pentravel expert today and let us create your perfect Malaysia holiday package – complete with flights, hotels, and insider tips from travellers who’ve been there themselves. 

Experience Asia, truly Asia – with Pentravel.