I’ve lived in Malaysia ever since birth, and Malaysia is my homeland. In the past five years or so, I’ve travelled to many countries, and yet when I land back in Malaysia I feel a certain joy and happiness. Let me tell you what are the simple things that make Malaysia so special and why you should come bask in the sunshine, dance in the rain and lie on our beautiful beaches at least once in your lifetime!
Let me start with the geography and climate of Malaysia. Malaysia sits comfortably on the Equator of Earth, making it hot and rainy throughout the year. There’s no holiday season in Malaysia – every month throughout the year is a great time for a holiday. It’s sunny days keep you warm and it usually showers in the evening. The night is cool yet humid. Malaysia’s chill and breezy highlands are focused in the centre of the peninsular. The paradise-like islands are situated in the Northern and Southern region.
One of the major attributes that make Malaysia a top tourist destination is Her people. The majority of the population here are Malays, who are Muslims in religion. The fact that they live in harmony with all other people of various cultures, religions and beliefs, make the people here a major interest to the world population. If you were to go to any town in Malaysia, you will notice the church, mosque and temple- all just a stones throw away from one another. The people here live by educating themselves on other religions and beliefs as well as by respecting all of them. During major celebrations, don’t be surprised to see a Buddhist in a Hindu temple or Hindus in the church. Malaysia practices guided-democracy, where every citizen has the right to practice his or her own religion of choice.
One thing, without a single doubt – every Malaysian loves about Malaysia is her wide array of mouth-watering, luscious, flavorsome and scrumptious food! The Northern region is well-known for its Thai, Chinese-hawker and Indian-Muslim food. The famous ‘nasi kandar’ which has your tongue tingling with the very first taste is sought after by many. Not only is it wide in variety, food in Malaysia is available round the clock. You can drive out and have a hot drink and ‘roti canai’ as late as midnight in many of the towns here. In places like Kuala Lumpur, the city centre- you can find almost anything from Korean and Japanese to Arabic food. Come to Malaysia and feast yourself and give your taste buds a treat.
My friends from the US and UK always think the best part about this country is the shopping experience. They find items here either exclusive, in the sense that they don’t have to go to India to get the most beautiful silk sarees, or very reasonable in price as compared to back home. So when you come, travel light and get ready to have excess baggage when you return.
Malaysia is haven to those who want to experience new cultures, new traditions and travel to enjoy. Don’t set any expectations, just fly in and enjoy the retreat! Welcome to Malaysia!
