All you need to know before visiting Malaysia

Malaysia is a diverse country located in Southeast Asia, known for its vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. Visitors can experience a mix of cultures, including Malay, Chinese, and Indian, through its delicious cuisine, colorful festivals, and unique architecture. Some of the must-visit destinations in Malaysia include Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, with its iconic Petronas Twin Towers; George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its street art and food scene; and Langkawi, a stunning archipelago with turquoise waters and sandy beaches.
If you are a travel enthusiast and you are planning to visit Malaysia soon, this travel guide will help you with all the things you need to know before visiting Malaysia.

Best time to visit Malaysia?

Malaysia has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity year-round. The monsoon season runs from November to February on the east coast of the peninsula, and from April to October on the west coast and in Sabah and Sarawak. Said this, the best time to visit Malaysia is between December and February, when the weather is dry and cool. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. The months of May to September are also a good time to visit Malaysia, with fewer crowds and lower prices, but expect more rain during this time. I visited Malaysia in March, and the weather was just perfect.

Keep in mind to pack for hot and humid weather, no matter the time of year you plan to visit.

Check if you need a visa to visit Malaysia:

If you are planning to visit Malaysia, you may need a visa depending on your nationality. Citizens of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements for stays of a certain duration. As an Albanian citizen I always search if I need a visa wherever I go, and from my experience rules and laws are updated from time to time, so they should be checked shortly before the trip. For more information, please visit the official website of the Malaysian Immigration Department before visiting Malaysia.

How to reach Malaysia?

Malaysia is well-connected to the rest of the world through air travel. Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is the primary airport in Malaysia, located approximately 50 km south of Kuala Lumpur. It is a hub for Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia, which operate flights to and from many destinations around the world.
Other international airports in Malaysia include Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Langkawi International Airport, and Penang International Airport. These airports serve as entry points to popular tourist destinations in Malaysia.
If you are traveling from neighboring countries, you can also reach Malaysia by land. There are several road and rail links connecting Malaysia to Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia. So, is so easy to visit Malaysia.

Language and Currency:

The official language of Malaysia is Malay. However, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in urban areas. Malaysian ringgit (MYR) is the currency used in Malaysia. It is recommended to exchange currency at banks or authorized exchange dealers to avoid scams and counterfeit money.

How to get around while visiting Malaysia:

Malaysia has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, trains, and taxis. The most popular way to get around in Malaysia is by car. You can rent a car directly at the airport, in major cities, and practically everywhere in any city. However, traffic can be congested in large cities, so it’s recommended to use public transportation. In Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, there is an extensive network of trains and buses that are affordable and easy to use.
I used public transportation everywhere and it was just an excellent and affordable way to visit Malaysia.

Tip: Use Grab instead of taxis. It will save you some money and it’s a really good choice.

Is Malaysia a budget destination?

Malaysia can be a budget destination, depending on where you go and what you do. Accommodation and food can be quite affordable, and public transportation is generally inexpensive. However, activities such as theme parks and tours can add up quickly.
With some planning and budgeting, it is possible to have a great trip to Malaysia without breaking the bank.

Tip: Keep in mind that in Malaysia alcohol costs more than the other neighboring countries and not only, and it has the third highest rate of alcohol in the world.

Dressing in Malaysia?

Keep in mind that Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly in certain areas. It is recommended to wear clothes that cover your shoulders, chest, and knees. Avoid wearing revealing or tight clothing. However, in tourist areas and beaches, it is more acceptable to wear swimsuits and beachwear. Always check the dress codes before visiting any religious site as they may have specific requirements.

Try all the different cuisines.

Traveling to Malaysia is a great way to explore the different cuisines available. Malaysian cuisine consists of different flavors that come from various ethnic groups, including Chinese, Indian, and Malay dishes. A traveler can expect unique delicacies like nasi lemak (Malaysian-style coconut rice), char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) as well as rendang (a spicy meat dish). Exploring the culture through its diverse cuisines certainly adds value to your trip and makes it an unforgettable experience! Malaysian cuisine will leave travelers with lasting memories of wonderful flavors across many regions throughout the country.

Tip: Don’t drink tap water. As a general rule, every traveler should know, that drinking tap water in Malaysia is not advisable unless you purify or boil the water before drinking

What to keep in mind before visiting Malaysia:

-Drugs are not allowed in Malaysia.

-Alcohol is legally banned in Terengganu and Kelantan.

-Men are not supposed to touch a woman’s hand when greeting.

-Use your palm to show directions if needed. Is considered rude to point your finger at something.

-Remove your footwear if you are visiting mosques or temples.