Insider Travel Tips

What documentation is required to visit Malaysia?

Prior to arrival in Malaysia, travellers must fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online. Visitors from Canada or the United States require a passport valid for at least six months, plus a blank page for entry stamp. You will be processed upon arrival by the Malaysian Immigration Department who may require proof of an onward or return plane ticket. No additional visa is required for stays under 90 days.

What are some of the best places to visit in Malaysia?

Flying into the gateway to Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, travellers will be drawn to its history and modern architecture. Explore the famous Petronas Twin Towers, lush Perdana Botanical Gardens, and sample the divine melting pot street food. Travelling north, history seeking visitors will enjoy a stop in George Town on Penang, known for its protected heritage colonial buildings. Continuing north, a trip to the Langkawi islands is not complete without riding to the peak of Gunung Mat Chinchang, where the famed Langkawi Sky Bridge is located. Consider flying into the remote Mulu National Park with its stunning limestone karst formations, enormous cave networks, cliffs, and gorges. Spend time relaxing beachside or snorkeling among the colourful reefs just off the shores of the Perhentian Islands.

How much does it typically cost to vacation in Malaysia?

Malaysia offers travellers city, beach and adventure destinations, all with the option to travel budget conscious, luxuriously or somewhere in between. When planning a vacation, look to budget between $300 to $350 per day, per person, not including international airfare. If you want to visit both of the Malaysian land masses, an almost two hour flight and additional modest cost will be required to travel between the two. Dining is generally considered very inexpensive, while the influence of Muslim religion in Malaysia makes it expensive to drink heavily taxed alcohol. A Goway Destination Specialist can plan and budget every step of the journey.

How do I plan a trip to Malaysia?

With Malaysia spread across two land masses, it can be a challenge to decide where to visit. Want to climb the 272 steps to the limestone Batu Caves or hike amongst lush tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands? To see as many highlights as possible, plan on spending 10 to 14 days in Malaysia. Rely on a Goway Destination Specialist to craft a tailor-made trip to Malaysia for you!

Can you drink tap water in Malaysia?

Most homes, hotels and buildings use a water filtration system as aging infrastructure and sediment issues are common in Malaysia. It is recommended that visitors solely rely on bottled water for consumption, even while brushing teeth.

What should I pack for a trip to Malaysia?

Malaysia has a tropical climate, with heat and humidity soaring high in the summer months. Pack accordingly with loose moisture wicking clothing and lightweight shoes. That said, the air conditioning indoors can be blasting, so always bring along a light sweater too. Packing a waterproof jacket and shoes is important for the fall and winter when rainfall accumulates.

What currency is used in Malaysia?

The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian ringgit (MYR). While exchange rates can vary, typically US $1 is worth 4.5 MYR. If buying anything on the street, vendors will exclusively take cash. Otherwise the use of credit cards is widely accepted. When travelling outside of cities, ATM’s can be more difficult to find, so be sure to take out cash before departing.

Is Malaysia LGBTQ+ friendly?

Malaysia is the least welcoming Asian country for LGBTQ+ travellers. Same-sex relationships are illegal and punishable by law. Furthermore, the has no laws that protect the LGBTQ+ community against discrimination or hate crimes. Some travellers have reported finding an LGBTQ+ community in Kuala Lumpur. That said, if planning a visit to Malaysia, be discreet, alert, and consider travelling in a group. In general, no matter your sexual orientation, public displays of affection are not appropriate.