Target Travel recently attended a Tourism Malaysia event to learn more about this destination. Most people only really think of Kuala Lumpur, but Malaysia is so much more. Since achieving independence it's grown in the hearts and minds of travelers. There has been a steady growth in tourist numbers from New Zealand year-on-year. There are reasons!
The Malaysia Year of Festivals 2015 is underway. They are heralding the country's endless celebrations of festivals, events and happenings. The year-long calendar is packed with festivities of every genre; for instance cultural festivals, shopping extravanganzas, international acclaimed events, eco-tourism events, arts, music showcases, food promotion and other themed events.
Malaysia is a shopping destination. Oh yes. Malaysia is home to three of the ten largest shopping malls in the world. These malls are experiences. You're able to check your kids in to supervised play-gyms whilst you shop. The 1Utama Shopping Centre even has a rainforest inside. There are many artisan and craft markets, food markets and more where you can get amongst the locals and experience Malaysian life. The 1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival is on right now!
Here are some specific regions worth considering as destinations.
We all know and love this city. A few key things to remember. The Showcase KL transit tour programme is an inexpensive way to get from the airport, use the hop-on, hop-off buses at 23 stops around the city, and get back to the airport. The KL Pass lets you enjoy, without further payment, access to multiple attractions across the city. One experience that is highly recommended is MUD - a musical that introduces visitors to the history of Malaysia. And of course, don't forget the Kuala Lumpur Food Trails. KL has produced a guide to help you eat your way around the city!
Sabah is richly blessed with nature diversity, unique cultures, fun adventure, beautiful beaches, and fantastic cuisines for the adventurous taste buds. They have it all, from the world’s largest flower - the Rafflesia, one of the highest mountains in South East Asia - Mount Kinabalu, to one of the world’s top dive sites - Sipadan Island. Sabah is also known for her great natural treasures which include the world-renowned Danum Valley Conservation Area and Tabin which is Sabah’s largest wildlife reserve.
Keep an eye on what is happening in Sabah through their 'Love Sabah' Facebook page.
* photos supplied by Sabah Tourism and used by permission.
Terengganu is endowed with unmatched natural beauty. Having the longest coastline (244km) of wonderful beaches, the lush tropical rainforests, a hidden paradise unmoved by time and stunning islands with its tranquil emerald waters turn magnificently golden hues at the touch of the sun’s first rays.
Terengganu is also rich with its customs and tradition, upheld through generations and visible in its way of life, its arts and handicrafts, its tradition culinary and its heritage. Terengganu is in a league of its own as a vibrant tourist destination.
* images provided by Tourism Terengganu and used by permission.
Medical Tourism is on the rise in Malaysia. We met Malaysia Healthcare who puts together packages for those wanting to have dental treatment or other procedures. The simple fact is that the cost comparisons are amazing. You will need to do your research of course. This is an initiative by the Ministry of Health of Malaysia.
We enjoyed meeting with Discovery Overland Holidays: who is a holiday/tour package operator that has been creating experiences for travelers for 15 years. They're able to handle everything in-country: sights, activities, destinations, hotels, transfers, tipping - the lot. Target Travel can partner with them to ensure satisfaction from the moment you get to Auckland International Airport.
* photos supplied by Discovery Overland Holidays and used by permission.
Malaysia is well serviced by many hotel groups and operators. Here are some details from those we met.
The Danna Langkawi is fantastic. Situated on Langkawi Island. The main tourist attractions on the island are idyllic white sandy beaches with swaying coconut trees and crystal clear blue water. Langkawi is declared as a duty-free zone and more recently named World Geopark by UNESCO in June 2007. The three main conservation areas are Island of the Pregnant Maiden Lake, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park.
* photos supplied by The Danna and used by permission.
Shangri-La runs many hotels and resorts in Malaysia. And some of their properties are simply spectacular. Once you've decided where you want to visit, do have a look at what they offer. I think my favorite has to be the Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa. It looks divine. Also on Langkawi is the Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa. Yet another property of high standard.
Malaysia Airlines and Air New Zealand both provide services to this region. There are many options around destinations and stopovers. Call us at the office to discuss what is best for you.