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Most people have heard about the delights of Thailand, & with almost 16 million visitors in 2010 alone, you probably know a few people who’ve been there. But what of Malaysia? This lesser known country actually offers a great deal more than its Thai neighbours. Practically speaking, both countries are pretty easy to reach & move about in – there are plenty of buses, some trains, & various internal flights. You can also keep your independence by finding cheap car hire deals, or even getting a motorbike.
Thailand does have beautiful beaches & wonderful diving. Bangkok will delight you with its palaces, temples, night markets & shopping. But – let’s be honest – it’s all become a bit much. Sex tourism in Thailand is hard to escape, as are the ubiquitous buckets of alcohol & the accompanying gangs of revellers. To us, the famed Thai friendliness often felt fake in a country which relies on tourism for 11 billion euros every year.
In contrast, Malaysia doesn’t need us – it’s already SouthEast Asia’s third largest economy. Its people were quirky & outgoing, which never felt forced. On our first night in Georgetown, one boss bounded out to chat & invited us to sing Santana with him, while at the next place, the owner saw my partner’s black skull t-shirt & promised two metal bands we’d never heard of! Both gave us directions elsewhere when we explained we were looking for a quiet Indian meal.
The food was the best we tasted in seven months of travel. Malaysia brings together Malays, Indians & Chinese under the much vaunted umbrella of “1Malaysia.” Putting politics to one side, it makes for a fantastic fusion of flavours. Start the day with a roti canai, feast for lunch in a local Chinese, & try some Malay Rendang or Sambal for dinner. We ate well for 1-5 euros a head – & while we love Thai curries, they just can’t compete.
Environment
Malaysia is one of twelve mega-diverse countries in the world, & while East Malaysia is the main attraction for nature lovers, there’s plenty to see on the mainland. The 130,000,000 year old Taman Negara jungle is an easy ride from Kuala Lumpur, & home to wild pigs, tapir, elephants, tigers, leopards, bear, & the Sumatran rhinoceros.
Most people stay in Kuala Tahan, a tiny village separated from the national park by the Tembeling River. Hiking in the jungle itself is rewarding & good value. A jungle hide bunk will cost 1 euro, & there are set routes designed for all fitness levels. The 400 metre long canopy walkway is the longest of its kind & just 20 minutes away from the river crossing.
If you prefer your nature under water, there’s a wealth of diving in both East & West Malaysia – at better value than Thailand too. Whatever your level, there are fantastic coral gardens, all the usual colourful reef fish, sea turtles, manta rays, shoals of tuna, barracuda, blacktip reef & hammerhead sharks.
So, be it nature, people or food, treat yourself by escaping the banana pancake trail & finding out what Malaysia has to offer.
