Destination: Malaysia
Destination: Malaysia
MALAYSIA TRAVEL GUIDE
Malaysia is located partly on a peninsula of the Asian mainland and partly on the northern third of the island of Borneo. The Western part of Malaysia shares a border with Thailand, is connected to Singapore and has coastlines on the South China Sea and the Straits of Malacca. East Malaysia, also referred to as Borneo, has borders with Brunei and Indonesia. There are plenty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are sure to tickle your fancy: Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley, Kinabalu Park and Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca.
The official language of Malaysia is Malay, officially known as Bahasa Malaysia, and is very similar to the Indonesian language making them mutually intelligible. However, English is widely spoken across Malaysia, especially in large cities and touristy areas.
Things to See and Do in Malaysia
Suggested daily budget
22-27 EUR / $25-30 USD
(Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation.
Using the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)
Money Saving Tips
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM MALAYSIA?
Malaysia is a multi-confessional country whose most professed religion is Islam. The population in Malaysia is extremely multicultural with people of local Malay, Chinese, indigenous Malay and Indian decent. This mix of cultures makes it the perfect starting point for your trip around Asia. You have the chance to sample a variety of different flavors from all parts of Asia and visit houses of worship of Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism all in one place! On top of that, you will find some of the nicest beaches in Asia right here, including Kota Kinabalu, Langkawi or Redang Island.
The best time to visit Malaysia is between December and February for the islands on the west side of Malaysia (Penang and Langkawi), and June through August for Perhentians and Tioman Island on the country’s Eastern coast.
TOP TRAVEL ESSENTIALS IN MALAYSIA
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR MALAYSIA
I’m always surprised how many people travel without travel insurance. For me, it’s as essential to travel as buying a plane ticket, backpack or accommodation, and I never go without it.
Although Malaysia is relatively safe, unexpected natural disasters can always happen and I’ve witnessed people getting laptops and phones pickpocketed first hand.
Adequate insurance not only provides you with medical coverage (if you get sick or break your leg), but also covers things like your camera full of epic shots getting damaged or stolen, your flights getting cancelled, or you getting caught up in a natural disaster.
In short, it’s an insurance against potential issues that arise when you’re traveling and can save your life (or at the very least, a lifetime of debt).
BOOK | I recommend booking World Nomads travel insurance
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
TEACHING ENGLISH IN MALAYSIA
Are you looking for a diverse and exciting teaching experience? Consider teaching English in Malaysia!
With its booming economy and growing demand for English language proficiency, Malaysia is an attractive destination for those interested in teaching English abroad.
To begin your teaching journey in Malaysia, it's recommended to obtain a TEFL/TESOL certification.
There are various course options available, including online and in-class formats, that can help prepare you for teaching English in Malaysia.
Teaching English in Asia has been a life-changing experience for me, offering the opportunity to learn about new cultures and contribute to students' language development. In Malaysia, you'll have the chance to work in bustling cities, rural areas, and with diverse communities, all while enjoying the country's rich culture and natural beauty.
For those seeking a reliable provider for TEFL/TESOL certification, consider ITTT for the following reasons:
- Experience: ITTT has been providing high-quality TEFL training courses since 1998, making it a well-established provider.
- Inclusive: ITTT courses welcome all fluent English speakers, regardless of nationality or previous teaching experience.
- Transparent: ITTT offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs, covering all necessary materials and certification.
- Support: ITTT provides 24/7 customer care, lifetime job assistance to course graduates, and access to teaching materials and lesson plans.
- Additional Resources: ITTT offers supplementary resources to support its graduates, such as teaching videos, an online blog, and partnerships with leading recruitment companies in the EFL industry.
Sign up through my link and receive a 20% discount off your TEFL/TESOL course to start your teaching journey in Malaysia today!
