Unmistakably Malaysia
Malaysia – the very word conjures images of Far Eastern magic, of a delightful mix of culture with stunning beaches, world-class diving and snorkelling, and exotic bird and wildlife.
Getting there: Malaysian Airlines operates a twice daily direct service from Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur, offering both economy and business class on all flights. Malaysian Airlines also has a good network of internal flights, linking the major regions with regular services. In addition, there are various indirect flights – Experience Holidays will always seek out the best option for you.
What to do and where to go: This Experienced Eye concentrates on Peninsular Malaysia – a two week self drive holiday taking you on a journey through the colonial past, with a mixture of city, highlands, rain forest and beach.
Day 1: Kuala Lumpur
Arrive in Kuala Lumpur today – the swift and efficient rail link whisks you into the city centre avoiding the crowded roads. Two nights in the city – and time to explore the cultural mix that makes up this extraordinary city. Take a city tour and visit the royal palace, bird and orchid gardens, and the old station, built in colonial times with a roof carefully designed to withstand at least a metre of snow!!
Kuala Lumpur 2 nights
Day 3: Cameron Highlands
Return to the airport to collect your hire car, and drive north, skirting the city, and into the Cameron Highlands for a three night stay. Re-visit the colonial past in the delightfully cool climate of this hill station, and discover homes that would not be out of place in leafy Surrey, complete with cream teas. Visit tea plantations, and learn of the process’s involved in producing some of the world’s best tea.
Cameron Highlands 3 nights
Day 6: Taman Negara National Park
Driving west today using the new highway, to the river port of Kuala Tembeling. Take the river boat deep into the jungle for a three night stay at Taman Negara National Park. Explore the river and rainforest habitats here, swimming in deserted rock pools, and perhaps walking the treetop canopy walk.
Taman Negara 3 nights
Day 9: East coast beach
Return to civilisation, with a boat trip back to Kuala Tembeling, retrieve your hire car, and head east for a final 5 nights on the beach. The east coast has some of the best beaches in Malaysia – and is relatively undiscovered. If you are a diver, plan to spend some time exploring the underwater wonderland of the off-shore islands – or simply relax in tranquil surroundings enjoying the very best of Malaysian cuisine at your hide-away hotel. You’ll have your car to hand should you decide to explore further.
Beach stay 5 nights
Day 15: Depart Kuala Lumpur
Say farewell to the east coast today, and return across the peninsular to Kuala Lumpur. Skirt the city and head to the airport, dropping your car on arrival.
Malaysian hidden gems
Every once in a while, we come across a property or group of properties that truly exceed all our expectations, and the YTL group of properties are exactly that. With several properties in Malaysia, and an expanding portfolio in other parts of the world, these hotels deliver in every way, from comfortable rooms, to exquisite locations, exceptional staff and superb dining – we are confident that you won’t be disappointed here.
Tanjong Jara is located near the little town of Dungun on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. A small but delightful property, with an excellent spa, superb restaurant, beach front location and delightful staff. Rooms are spread across the property in three categories, and all are spacious, tastefully decorated with every amenity you possibly need. The property is open all year, but as the monsoon season hits from December through to the end of March, you may prefer to avoid this period.
