Malaysia
Free Travel Guide
Malaysia
March to October
Malay
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Small
Malaysia is one of the countries in Southeast Asia that is very popular with backpackers and tourists looking for adventure. We too had long cherished a desire to travel to this idyllic country and were therefore very happy that we could leave. Because Malaysia is more than just the capital Kuala Lumpur. You have beautiful islands such as Penang, Tioman and Langkawi, as well as the nature of the Cameron Highlands and the oldest rainforest in the world Taman Negara. According to many, the most beautiful part of Malaysia can be found on the paradise island of Borneo.
Transport in
Malaysia
Grab
Grab is the Asian version of the well-known application Uber. The app has conquered the entire market in Malaysia, so you can’t use Uber or Lyft here. Although this application is a good and cheap solution to move yourself, it currently has one (major) drawback. You need a mobile number from a country where this application is active. And since this is currently only in Asian countries, you cannot use this app with a European number. If you buy a local SIM card with internet, you can use this number and Grab.
Bus
At almost all bus stations in Malaysia you can buy a ticket from either the national bus company Transnasional or a private company. It is important to know that all prices will be approximately the same because they are set by the state itself. The quality of the buses are good and are even among the better buses of this region in Asia. Nevertheless, for longer distances it is recommended to purchase a luxury bus or seat. You can also buy bus tickets online today.
Metro and Train
In Kuala Lumpur you can also use an excellent metro system. In our opinion, just as good as in Paris or London, only quieter and above all cheaper. You can buy the tickets at the entrance of each station. Often you cannot pay with the card and the maximum allowed note is one of 5 Ringgit. So you will have to have small money in your pocket. Trains are not popular in Malaysia. The main reason for this is the speed and the fact that this island consists of two parts. The trains in and around Kuala Lumpur work and run excellent!
Taxi
Taxis in Malaysia are a good and safe way to get around. Taxis have fixed prices at the airport and in cities such as Penang and Langkawi, and in all other cases we recommend that you always negotiate. However, always agree on a price and never drive on the counter. The taxis in Malaysia are relatively cheap. For example, for a trip in the center of Kuala Lumpur you will never have to spend more than 15 MYR.
Useful tips
Malaysia
Budget Malaysia - Is Malaysia an expensive country?
Wat te do in
Malaysia
What to do in Kuala Lumpur
What to do in Ipoh
Things to do in Cameron Highlands
What to do in Penang
Things to do in Langkawi
Helpful facts
Malaysia
Food in Malaysia
In Malaysia you can find a lot of dishes from different Asian countries. You can find Indian, Thai, Chinese and even Japanese cuisine here. You should definitely try fried noodles, laksa or Tom yam from Thailand. Those who venture into (excellent) street food will pay an average of 12 MYR per dish and those who go to the “more expensive” restaurants in tourist areas or shopping centers will pay an average of 35 MYR per person. Please note: in many cases the food will be served without a knife. A knife is seen as a weapon and only belongs in the kitchen, not on the table.
Paper
For Malaysia you don’t need any special documents and you have to make little or no preparations. All you need is an international passport that is valid for at least 6 months. Take your documents from the return flight or any hotel bookings with you. These can be requested at the border control. Anyone who comes to Malaysia as a tourist will receive a stamp in his passport that allows you to stay in the country for 90 days. This can be extended by another 60 days at the Immigration Service. CORONA UPDATE: due to corona you now have to download and complete the MySejahtera application a day before departure.
Vaccinations
There are currently no mandatory vaccinations in Malaysia. It is recommended to take a vaccination against DTP and Hepatitis A and the MMR vaccine (if you have never had measles). If you come from a country where yellow fever still exists, a yellow fever vaccine is mandatory. For an up-to-date list of Yellow Fever countries, please refer to Vaccinations while traveling . You can also find all other obligations and rules on this website. We advise everyone to always contact the subtropical institute for the latest updates regarding Malaysia.
Internet
Most hotels and Airbnbs in Malaysia have an excellent WiFi network. Something you won’t find in every public space or restaurant. It is therefore recommended to buy a SIM card with which you have unlimited access to the internet in Malaysia. Especially if you want to use the Grab application to book a taxi. The price for a SIM card with unlimited internet starts at 45 MYR. In the airport this price is slightly higher.
Tipping in Malaysia
Tipping in Malaysia is not mandatory but is accepted if you give it. For example, when taking a taxi, it is recommended to round up the amount. A small tip of a few ringit is also expected at the doorman of your hotel. In most large restaurants and hotels, a 5 to 10 percent service charge is automatically charged. So always check the bill before you give an extra tip.
Safety in Malaysia
Malaysia is a very safe country so you don’t have to worry much about it. The usual caution you have to exercise in all major cities in the world also applies here. This country is also safe for women who want to travel alone. Beware of the many counterfeit products on offer. And certainly at the tourist stalls. Nude or topless sunbathing is prohibited and can be punished with imprisonment.
blog
Malaysia
Discover Malaysia – Our Itinerary
But most of all, explore this land of temples, rainforests and refined food for yourself. Discover our itinerary in Malaysia.
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