beaches of Malaysia

There are many natural and manmade tourist attractions in Malaysia. In 2010, the UN's World Tourism Organization ranked Malaysia among the Top Ten tourist destinations in the world. This Southeast Asian tiger is definitely one of the rock stars in the region when it comes to tourism. Travelling around Malaysia can be compared to reading a page-turning Bestseller: you've first got the history and background of it being one of the most popular trade routes used by spice merchants in the hey-days of the Malacca Sultanate during the 15th century, then you've got the beautiful sub-plots in the many historical, cultural and natural wonders dotting the landscape. And finally toss in Malaysia's culinary credentials, widely regarded to be among Asia's finest, and you've got your tantalizing blurbs.

The word-famous Twin Towers, gleaming in the day, amazingly breath-taking when lit up at night, stands towering above all other against a modern urban skyline. Whereas in other parts of the country, like in Georgetown, Penang, old colonial buildings and townhouses still proudly stand where they've always stood, a testament to the economic power of the Malacca Straits several nearly 600 years ago. Old and new stand side-by-side, an intriguing fusion that promises to enchant both new and long-time travelers to Malaysia's shores.

Before you start thinking that the country only has historical buildings and silver skyscrapers to offer, travel out of the city centers and soon you'll find yourself marveling at gems of nature untouched by development and urban progress. Feel the grains of pristine white sand crunch beneath your feet as you stroll across the beaches of Langkawi and Redang. Take a walk on the wild side and head for the canopy walk of the 130 million year old virgin rainforest in Taman Negara National Park. Head over to the peaceful and serene highland regions to enjoy cooler temperatures and a peek at how tea is produced.

Wait, those are just the attractions in Peninsula Malaysia. Fly across the South China Sea and you'll have the whole of East Malaysia to explore. Go spelunking in the Gunung Mulu National Park (declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in Sarawak, and be ready to be held spellbound by the majestic caves, ancient limestone formations and the old-as-time surrounding rainforest. If you're a fan of sun and surf, and want to dive in what must surely be one of the world's best diving spots, head over to Sipadan Island in Sabah, Malaysia's one and only oceanic island. If you're a daredevil who loves challenges, strap on your climbing boots and head over to Sabah's Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's tallest mountain.

If Malaysia was a best-selling book, it would be a very open-ended book, one where you can take your time enjoying the many sub-plots and you can interpret in so many ways. So whether you're a culture-buff who gets all excited about the studying the architectural wonders of the British and Portuguese colonial buildings in Penang and Malacca, or a nature-loving adrenaline junkie keen to set off into the greenery of ancient rainforests to discover the many secrets that lie within, Malaysia has an adventure that's tailor-made for you.

Some say it is wonderful, some say it is fascinating, some say it is charming destination, some say it is heaven on earth. With whatever description you define Malaysia; this beautiful holidaying destination of Asia is beyond visual and verbal description. It is one of the most beautiful and charming destination in Asia visited by millions of tourists from all the nook and corner of the world. It is amazingly beautiful and truly there are lots of things to do and see in Malaysia, which will surely leave your spell bind. Above all the astonishing and mesmerizing attractions be it natural beaches, man made attractions or the heritage and cultural beauty, have made Malaysia tour the most preferred among tourists and honeymooning couples.

Malaysia has scores of astounding attractions which have give way for tourists to plan their tour according to their choice. While some tourists prefer for Malaysia Tours, some go for Malaysia Thailand tours, beach tours or some plan for fun filled memorable leisure tours in Malaysia. Whatever tours you choose you will surly going to having great new experiences, which you will love to relish in for lifetime. Some of the Must Visit Attractions of Malaysia Penang Literally meaning land of betel nuts, Penang is famous for its mesmerizing natural beauty. Here tourists have lots of options to make the day an incredible experience. The scenic warm beaches, refreshing greenery and the mouthwatering cuisines attract tourists all the year round.

Kuala Lumpur This vibrant capital of Malaysia is home to many interesting attractions whose beauty and charm are unmatched and incomparable. Most of all the beautiful amalgamation of the towering sky scrappers and the charming heritage buildings are the major draw of tourists in Kuala Lumpur. Petronas Twin Tower, Pavilion Mall, Mardeka Square, Chinatown, Surai KLCC Mall, National Mosque, etc are some of the must and most visit attraction in Kuala Lumpur the capital city of Malaysia. Beside one can also get on to Kuala Lumpur Genting tour which is now the most preferred by the tourists looking some extra bit of uniqueness being in this capital city. Genting tour holds all the entertainment and offers to all irrespective of race and sex. Genting is surrounded by the equatorial forest and is referred as the modern entertaining hub in the lap of nature. It is now turning out to be the hub of hosting international events.

Perlis Famous for its unspoilt beauty, greenery and scenic beauty, Perlis is the smallest state in Malaysia. The unspoilt greenery and the glistering paddy fields truly create unbelievable view with every change of seasons. Malacca It is a quite sea side city on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the straits of Malaysia. It is a worth visiting city on Malaysia tour as the city is blessed with heritage and culture attractions. Its glorious past is clearly visible in the Portuguese architecture where as while touring along the street; Chinese influence can be seen more clearly.

Beside these interesting places, one can also to Kelantan, Sabah, Sarawak, Terengganu, etc. All these places are blessed with awesome tourism and attractions, which are worth visiting and exploring on your trip to Malaysia. Now, I beg to stop my dancing finger from the Key boards. Hope this article will help you in planning Kuala Lumpur Genting Tours and valuable information about worth visiting tourist's places in Malaysia, Asia.

Malaysia is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in South East Asia. It is brimming with out exciting tourism attractions, sightseeing spots, rich culture and traditions and more of all harmonious mix of ultra modernity and old charm. Malaysia boosts upon its diverse tourism attractions that cater the needs of all the tourists who come from across the world for holidays. So plan for holidays in Malaysia also tagged as Truly Asia and explore the beauty of the various tourism attraction of the country in a delightful and memorable way.

Malaysia has diverse attractions and caters the need of every single tourist to offer them memorable holiday experince. Malaysia is a sheer magic and visitors who love to experience the sheer modernity of the country visit to the cosmopolitan city of Kuala Lumpur, which boosts of modern architectural wonder almost seen flittering with the sky, throbbing nightlife, shopping malls, ultra modern and heritage attractions and various other entertainment options. Some of the prime attractions of KL are Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, National Mosque, National Art Gallery, National Planetarium, National Science Center, Batu Caves and much more. Apart from all KL attractions are beyond par of all the other cities of the South East Asia holiday destinations and offer you wonderful experience of Tours to Malaysia.

In additional Malaysia have many other tourism destinations after Kuala Lumpur which includes Melecca, Georgetown, Cameron Highlands, Negari Sembilian, Penang, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak and Terengganu. These entire tourism destinations of Malaysia are blessed with awesome tourism attractions and destinations and provide wonderful opportunity for tourists to enjoy holiday in this country also tagged Truly Asia in a delightful and memorable way. Beside these destinations are the featured attractions of almost all the Malaysia holiday packages and are truly unique from one another whose charm and splendor are unmatched by any other tourism destination in the world.

On your visit to Malaysia you cannot afford to miss to visit Cameron Highlands a beautiful holiday destinations blessed with outstanding natural beauty, hill stations and well organized tea gardens. It is one of the most visited destinations in this country by tourists it this place is unique blessed by nature in the form of heart grabbing waterfalls, jungle walks, well organised tea gardens, emerald green meadows with blossoming flowers and much more. Cameron Highland will offer you sheer experience of natural wonder to see and explore in their refreshing form.

Apart from sightseeing spots, tourists can also enjoy shopping in the bustling malls, departmental stores and treasure a brilliant shopping experince. Malaysia is a shopper's paradise and can enjoy shopping in every some of the fascinating tourist destinations that include Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Malacca, Kuantan, Port Dickson Shopping, The Craft Cultural Complex, Arch World Miniature and many other shopping places in Malaysia. In additional you can also enjoy irresistible cuisines, world class accommodation facilities, and Malay hospitality and on time the magical extravaganza of Malaysia which is going to offer you memorable memories to relish in forever. Truly once you visit this beautiful country of Malaysia you will love to come back time and again.

So if you want to experience the magical beauty of Malaysia plan your vacation with one of the leading tour and travel management companies. Tour operators provide several tailor made tour package like Malaysia tour, Malaysia Penang tour, Malaysia Singapore tour etc. Book one of your choices and enjoy your vacation in this beautiful Malaysia in a delightful and memorable way.

Kuala Lumpur actually means 'muddy estuary' in Malay; this comes from the city's roots as a sleepy seaside shanty town. However, once you arrive in Kuala Lumpur, it is impossible to imagine anything but the large, modern and sprawling city that occupies this part of Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is divided into several areas - the City Center is the obvious administrative and corporate region, and is home to the old Chinese commercial center (Chinatown). The Golden Triangle is located to the northeast of the city, and is home to shopping centers, many five-star hotels in Kuala Lumpur and jumping nightlife. Tuanka Abdul Rahman is the vibrant shopping hub of the city, and is home to several traditional Malay festivals, including Hari Raya Puyasa and Deepvali. The central railway station is located in the Brickfields area, which is Kuala Lumpur's Little India.

Kuala Lumpur is known to have one of the highest concentrations of five-star hotels in the world - at some of the best prices. Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is in the heart of the business and shopping districts, and only 45 minutes from the international airport. It takes advantage of the sultry tropical Malay climate to surround itself with gorgeous lush gardens, one of the chain's signature features. 

Of course, the impeccable Shangri-La service and a focus on quality through the basic facilities is evident also. The JW Marriott is the Marriott chain's flagship hotel in Kuala Lumpur, and pays homage to the local culture, art and sensibilities with its traditional Malay decor. The hotel is in good company, locality-wise - situated on Bintang walk, you can step out the front doors of your hotel and immediately find designer shopping and a vibrant dining and entertainment culture. If you are looking for a more authentic Malay experience, make your hotel reservation in Kuala Lumpur at the Marriott.

If you are looking to stay in a hotel in Kuala Lumpur for a longer period, the Prince is the solution for luxury serviced apartments. The complex is enormous, with a wide selection of shops, a health club, pool, spa, convenience store and a large selection of restaurants. It is conveniently located, yet far enough away from the action for a peaceful sleep.

If you are a seasoned traveller, you have no doubt found that it is difficult to find top-class restaurants that serve cuisine native to the area. The Top Hat Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur is a notable exception, with its traditional Malay fare, and also a mix of Malacca Portugese, Thai, Nonya and vegetarian recipes. The desserts at the restaurant are generously sized and decadent in flavour - great to share with a special friend!

Kuala Lumpur also spoils you for choice in rooftop bars. And why not, with such stunning luminous nightiime skylines as in Kuala Lumpur? The Skybar is a great place to break in your dancing shoes, and your cocktail-drinking shoes. The bar, set on thirty-third level of the Traders Hotel, has a central pool for hot summer nights and lovely plush sofas. Another one of Kuala Lumpur's rooftop favorites is the Luna Bar, which was recently renovated and now more chic than Paris itself. The bar has open areas for you to rise above the city air of Kuala Lumpur after 10pm, when the party starts kicking into gear. If you want to dine at Luna Bar, best to come early.

There are many bargains to be had in Kuala Lumpur, on all the travelling essentials like hotels in Kuala Lumpur, shopping, dining and entertainment in the city. Do a little research, and enjoy yourself!

Penang is a wonderful island destination in Southeast Asia, located in the straits of Malacca, on the north-west coast of Malaysia. Located just four-hour drive by air from Kuala Lumpur - the capital city of Malaysia, the city boasts of an enormous variety of attractions in the form of cultural spots, ancient shrines, beautiful beaches and islands, and several other natural landmarks including Penang Hill.

Equally interesting is the long history of Penang dating back to the mid 16th century when some of the Portuguese merchants from Goa (India) who cruised to the Far East in search of spice stopped on a small rocky isle on the northern coast of Penang in order to obtain fresh water from a river close by  the locals called these Portuguese traders ferringi. Later, this rocky islet came to be known as Batu Ferringhi, otherwise known as Lover's Isle. However, the Portuguese named the main island 'Pulo Pinaom', literally meaning Betel Nut Island. This later became Penang, which means 'palm tree.' Probably at that time there were areca nut palm trees in abundance in the area.

In the 17th century, Penang served as a natural harbor during the monsoon months for Arabian, Chinese, Dutch, French, and Indian ships. In meantime, Penang also became much popular among the pirates who plundered ships that traversed via the Straits of Malacca. By the 18th century, the spice as well as opium trade between the East and west became greatly popular.

At this time, the Dutch dominated the spice trade. Later, the British also took steps to enter the scenario to dominate spice trade. As a result, they sent Captain Francis Light to establish good trade relations in this region. But, during this time Penang was under the control of the Kingdom of Kedah. In 1771, the Sultan of Kedah handed over Penang to Captain Francis Light in return for protection against the threats of Burmese and Siamese.

After a year, Francis Light sailed to Junk Ceylon in order to form a business there, along with one of his friends, James Scott. This in turn allowed him to gain knowledge on the customs as well as the language of the people, thereby enabling him to win the trusts of the people. Later, in August 1786, Light landed at today's Esplanade in order to officially take possession of the island. This marked the propitious beginning of the first British settlement on Malaysian soil.

After this, the area was renamed 'Prince of Wales Island.' Later, Light founded a settlement on the northeast peninsula of the island, and named it George Town to honor George, the then Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. As a result, this uninhabited area's population rose to 10,000 by the end of the century. Prince of Wales Island soon flourished as a trading post for tea, cloves, pepper, nutmeg, and textiles.

Meanwhile, when Sultan Abdullah, the then ruler of Sultanate of Kedah, learned that the British is not willing to offer protection, he gathered an army to retake Penang. However, Kedah was defeated, and accordingly Sultan Abdullah entered a contract with the British to hand over Penang to the British. In return, Light agreed to pay the Sultan annually an amount of 6,000 Spanish dollars. This system still continues, and today Penang Government pays RM 18,800 to the Sultan of Kedah every year. When Francis Light died in 1794, his position was taken over by Martina Rozells and William Light.

During the beginning of the 19th century, the settlement of Penang was transformed into Presidency. By the middle of the 19th century, Penang witnessed a glorious trade, with the founding of rich deposits of tin in nearby state, namely, Perak.

Later, Penang was famed as an immigration port, serving immigrants from across the world, particularly from South India and South China. After some times, steps were taken to link Penang by ship to such destinations as Medan, Rangoon, and Singapore.

By the turn of the 20th century, Penang became an important center for trading rubber. In 1905, the first hydroelectric system in the region was completed. Soon after a year, the city's first electric tramway was developed. Gradually, other modes of transport were also introduced here, such as rickshaws.

During the1930s, Penang became an important center of entertainment, with an array of cabaret and cinema halls and gambling centers. This in turn paved way for the ruin of many rich families. Penang further suffered as a result of the Wall Street Crash. Soon after this, the Second World War broke out in 1941. During this time, the region was bombed. As a result, the British took off to Singapore. Then, came the fearful days, when Penang was dominated by the Japanese Kempettai. Eventually, the Japanese force surrendered to the English forces in 1945.

After long years of struggle for power between the democratic forces of Britain and Malaya and the communists, Malaysia attained independence in August 1957, and Penang became one of its 13 states. Penang is now officially known as Negeri Pulau Pinang.

Penang is one of the favourite holiday destinations in Malaysia. Its location on the Northwestern coastal area of the peninsular and especially it being by the Straits of Malacca makes it even popular. And even though Penang is a ‘beach resort' type of destination it also boasts a lovely hill known as the Penang Hill.

Penang Hill is the ideal way to get away from the heat and the bustle of the tropical Georgetown. The 830-metre high hill had been a favourite escape even during the colonial times. Travellers looking to experience the cool climate here can either travel along on it its pathway in an automobile or simply climb it.  In earlier times, in the year 1923 there was a funicular railway, which led to the top, so people could use this to reach its peak. The train was just a simple outfit with wooden carriages and conforming to two classes. These original trains have now been replaced with a modern counterpart whilst the older versions have retired to immobile life at the National Museum.

The journey starts at the base and the station is within easy walking distance from the famous Kek Lok Si Temple and the ride, which includes changing trains half way through, takes about 30 minutes. The ride it self is picturesque. Bits of jungle, monkeys and old colonial bungalows are some of the sights which add colour to the ride. The top of the Penang Hill features various attractions such as a mosque and temple and various eateries.

But the best part of getting to the top of the Penang Hill is the view it affords. The peak is the ideal place for a panoramic view of the area, which includes the beautiful Malacca Straits, and also the place to explore the local fauna and flora and the terrain. For the Nature lover the Hill promises several nature trails through the overwhelming surroundings.

Visitors to Penang are assured of various accommodation options. Travelers can pick from a range with varying prices, each option assuring modern facilities. And Penang mainly being a beach resort, most travelers prefer the accommodation in the Penang beach resort area. Be it budget or luxury hotels Penang offers, the accommodations have all the options you are looking for. For traditional Malaysian style hospitality with luxurious accommodation, try the Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, Penang, located on the world famous Batu Feringgi Beach.