🇲🇾Malaysia

Malaysia is a Muslim-majority Southeast Asian country known for its cultural diversity, modern cities like Kuala Lumpur, and natural wonders, ranging from pristine beaches to tropical rainforests.

George Town, Penang

George Town, the capital city of the Malaysian state of Penang, is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its historic colonial architecture, intricate temples, and mosques. The city is a melting pot of diverse cultural influences, notably Chinese, Indian, and Malay, which is most evident in its eclectic cuisine, festivals, and vibrant street art.

Food halls & bar street

In George Town, the lively food courts and bar streets offer a gastronomic paradise featuring local and international flavours. The bar streets contribute to a vibrant nightlife. Alcohol is widely available. However, it is more expensive due to Malaysia being a Muslim-majority country.

Vibrant food court with a huge variety of tasty dishes

lively bars can be found easily

interactive street art invites you to take tons of photos

Botanical gardens

The Botanical Gardens offer a lush and serene escape from the city, featuring a wide array of local flora, scenic walking paths, tranquil ponds, and cheeky monkey sightings.

Kek Lok Si Temple & Guan Yin Statue

The Kek Lok Si Temple is a sprawling complex with intricate Chinese-inspired architecture and vibrant Buddhist murals, serving as a significant spiritual center. In close proximity, the Guan Yin Statue, influenced by Chinese art and spirituality, is a towering monument made of bronze. It serves as a symbol of compassion and mercy, characteristics associated with the Bodhisattva Guan Yin in Buddhist tradition. The statue is often a focal point for pilgrimages and ceremonies, and its elevated position offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Kek Lok Si Temple

scenic view of Georg Town

Giant Guan Yin Statue

Chew Jetty

Chew Jetty is a historic waterfront settlement in Penang consisting of wooden stilt houses, built by the Chew clan from China's Fujian province. The area is a living testament to early Chinese migration to Malaysia, offering a unique blend of culture, art, and community, with shops and homes sitting above the water.

Hokkien Char was delicious

I also statisfied my new found love of Durian with some home-made Durian ice cream 😋

Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is a notable destination for its sprawling tea plantations, strawberry farms, and the ethereal Mossy Forest, offering a blend of agricultural richness and natural beauty.

BoH tea plantation

strawberries at the markets

carnivorous plants in the wild.. H* thinks they look like condoms 🤭😆

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a bustling metropolis known for its iconic skyline dominated by the Petronas Twin Towers, a rich mix of cultural influences, and a vibrant food and shopping scene.

Asam Laksa with Bandung Longan drink

Just like in George Town there is also tons of street art to marvel at. But another highlight of KL are of course the Petronas Towers at night. There's also a water/light show called "Lake Symphony" happening every night at KLCC park. For the best view of the Petronas Towers it's best to go to one of the sky bars just across the park. (e.g. SkyBar)

Lake Symphony at KLCC park

a shot from below at KLCC park

for the best view go to one of the sky bars opposite of the Petronas Towers

Batu Caves

The Batu Caves are a Hindu pilgrimage site near Kuala Lumpur featuring a towering limestone hill and ornate cave temples. A 272-step climb leads to the main Cathedral Cave. But be alert; the local macaque monkeys are known for swiping unguarded snacks!

Malacca

Malacca, also known as Melaka, is a historic city in Malaysia that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, distinguished for its colonial-era architecture and complex history involving Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule, which has left an indelible impact on its culture and landmarks.