Backpacking Guide to Malaysia Travel

Traveling to Malaysia can be a life-changing experience, offering a unique blend of cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. If you’re a backpacker looking for your next adventure, this guide will equip you with everything you need to navigate this beautiful country. From essential travel tips to hidden gems, let’s dive into the wonders of Malaysia.

Understanding Visa Requirements

Obtaining a visa for Malaysia is straightforward, especially for tourists from many countries. The visa is issued upon arrival, and the process is completely free. To take advantage of this, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry. Upon arrival, you can stay in the country for up to 90 days, entering either by land or air. This policy simplifies travel plans, allowing backpackers to explore Malaysia at their own pace.

Currency and Money Matters

The currency used in Malaysia is the Ringgit (MYR). It’s wise to check the current exchange rates before your trip. You can find a reference for exchange rates in various online financial platforms or through local banks. Here are some tips on managing your money:

• Try to avoid exchanging money at your local bank before traveling, as their rates often include high commissions.
• Consider using a neobank like Revolut or N26. They offer favorable exchange rates and minimal fees.
• Carry a backup bank card in case of issues with your primary option.

Best Times to Visit Malaysia

Malaysia is split into two main regions: the peninsular and Borneo. Each region has different weather patterns influenced by monsoon seasons:

• On the West Coast, expect heavy rainfall from May to October, while the East Coast experiences its monsoon from September to March.
• During the dry season from June to September, Borneo is the best region to explore, featuring lush rainforests and unique wildlife.
• Plan your trip around these monsoon months to ensure that you can enjoy outdoor activities and beach time without interruptions.

Vaccination and Health Precautions

Before traveling to Malaysia, it’s important to be aware of health risks such as dengue fever and malaria. While malaria primarily affects rural areas, urban regions are generally safe. Here are some essential health tips:

• Use a strong mosquito repellent and consider wearing long-sleeved clothing during peak mosquito activity times (dawn and dusk).
• Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, and tetanus. If you plan to visit rural areas, consider the Japanese encephalitis vaccine.
• For more health-related travel advice, consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Traveling on a budget in Malaysia is quite feasible. On average, you can expect to spend around €13.41 per person per day, broken down as follows:

• Accommodation: €4.35 (21 nights in hostels plus two nights on buses).
• Food: €4.07.
• Transportation: €3.81.
• Activities and miscellaneous: €1.56.

Here are some common prices to give you an idea of daily expenses:

• Water: 1.5-2 MYR
• Rice and noodles: 4-8 MYR
• Double room: 30-50 MYR
• Snacks: 0.7-1.5 MYR
• Coca-Cola: 1.5-2 MYR
• Bus fare: 4-6 MYR per hour

Electrical Outlets in Malaysia

When traveling, it’s crucial to know the types of electrical outlets in your destination. Malaysia uses three types of plugs:

• Type A: Two flat parallel pins.
• Type C: Two round pins (common in Europe).
• Type G: Three rectangular pins (as used in the UK).

It’s advisable to carry a universal adapter or purchase one upon arrival to ensure you can charge your devices without hassle.

Travel Itinerary Suggestions

During our 23-day trip through Malaysia, we entered from the north via the Thailand border and exited through the south towards Singapore. Here’s a brief overview of the places we visited:

• Penang
• Ipoh
• Cameron Highlands
• Melaka
• Perhentian Islands
• Taman Negara

Each destination provides unique experiences, from the vibrant street art of Penang to the lush landscapes of the Cameron Highlands. Keep in mind that we later returned to explore more islands like Tioman and Redang, as well as revisiting Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Malaysia truly captivates and invites further exploration.

Getting Around Malaysia

Malaysia boasts a reliable and efficient public transportation system, making it easy to traverse the country:

• Buses: Numerous companies offer comfortable bus services, both day and night. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Trains: The Malaysian railway system is well-maintained. You can book tickets through the Easybook website or at train stations.
• Urban Transport: Cities like Kuala Lumpur have efficient metro and bus systems that are inexpensive and easy to navigate.

Culinary Adventures in Malaysia

For food lovers, Malaysia is a culinary paradise. Influences from Indian, Chinese, and local Malay cuisines create a unique gastronomic experience. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Hokkien Mee: Fried noodles with meat, calamari, cabbage, and crispy pork.
• Nasi Lemak: Coconut rice served with anchovies, boiled egg, sambal, peanuts, and vegetables.
• Satay: Grilled chicken or beef skewers served with peanut sauce.
• Chicken Rice: A simple yet savory dish of rice paired with chicken, often accompanied by dipping sauces.
• Laksa: A spicy noodle soup available in various forms, often made with coconut milk.

Don't forget to indulge in local desserts like Ice Kacang, a snow cone topped with colorful syrups and various toppings, or try Roti variations, which are flatbreads served with different fillings. Pair your meals with Teh Tarik, a delicious milk tea that’s a staple in Malaysian dining.

Highlights and Low Points of Our Journey

Reflecting on our adventure in Malaysia brings up a myriad of emotions, from exhilarating highs to some frustrating moments:

The Best

• The incredible variety of Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian cuisine.
• Stunning snorkeling experiences in the Perhentian Islands.
• The lush greenery of the Cameron Highlands, despite some tourist traps.
• Pulsating nightlife and atmosphere in Kuala Lumpur, especially around the Petronas Towers.
• Connecting with fellow travelers who became friends along the way.

The Worst

• Long travel times to certain destinations, especially trying to reach Taman Negara.
• Air conditioning set too cold in many establishments, making it uncomfortable at times.
• Witnessing environmental degradation even in beautiful rainforest areas.

Overall, Malaysia is a country that often gets overlooked by backpackers planning their Southeast Asia itinerary. However, it is rich in experiences, from modern cities to ancient jungles, diverse cultures, and hospitable locals. We wholeheartedly recommend exploring this wonderful nation.

Additional Resources for Your Trip

For further reading, we’ve compiled a list of articles that can enhance your travel experience:

• Tips for Traveling in Kuala Lumpur
• Visiting the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur
• Top Things to See and Do in Malaysia
• 10 Must-Try Dishes in Malaysia

Our Travel Photos

We captured many memories during our time in Malaysia. You can view our photo album on:

• Facebook

We hope this travel guide to Malaysia proves to be beneficial for your journey. Should you have any questions or need additional information, feel free to reach out, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

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