Buddhist and Hindu beliefs from Indianand Chinese immigrants long before Arabtraders introduced Islam and, in some areas,Chinese descendants form the majority of thepopulation. Relaxed and self-sufficient, theMalays, Chinese and Indians of Malaysiamake any visit here feel safe and easy.There's a great deal to see, with colonialhistory and countless temples and churchesreflecting Malaysia's rich cultural heritage,quiet tea plantations blanketing the coolhighland regions and stunning nationalparks filled with tropical birds andbutterflies. For many visitors, the coast isthe major draw, with superb beaches on themainland as well as on a scattering oftranquil islands, where virgin jungle givesway to clear, coral-rich waters.Malaysia offers an inspiring mix of old and new: a complex melting pot ofAsian cultures and traditions overlaid withhundreds of years of European influence.From the glittering skyscrapers of its vibrantcities to the ancient primary rainforests of itsinterior and the deserted beaches of the eastcoast, Malaysia encapsulates Southeast Asiain all its variety. Malay people adopted84Malaysia

Audley in MalaysiaMalaysia is one of Southeast Asia's mostaccessible destinations, as there are directflights from the UK to Kuala Lumpur. Thebeaches are a major attraction but werecommend that you take the time toexplore more of the country -either with aprivate car and experienced chauffeur-guideor as a self drive tour. This way, you canpiece together several areas of the country inthe most efficient manner while also havingthe flexibility to make stops and smalldetours. Visit tea plantations in the CameronHighlands, sample the local delicacies ofPenang's night market and experience themore relaxed and traditional way of life inthe atmospheric fishing villages of the eastcoast. At the end of the trip you could alsoinclude some time to enjoy Malaysia'sstunning beaches.AccommodationMalaysia offers heartfelt hospitality in ahandful of small, character properties as well as some luxurious resorts. Beachdestinations like Langkawi have a wealth ofaccommodation options that can satisfyhoneymooners, families, those after isolationor those after a choice of nearby restaurants.Find out more For suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in Malaysia, pleasesee page 95.www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features, further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our Malaysiaspecialists 01993 838 130?Cameron HighlandsStunning scenery and vast tea plantations.Langkawi99 tropical islands with whitesand beaches and some of thebest hotels in the country.PenangDesignated a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site, the city of GeorgeTown is famed for its food.321Taman NegaraThought to be the oldestrainforest in the world, great forjungle treks and river cruises.Kuala LumpurAmazing food, huge malls andgreat for people watching.MalaccaA UNESCO World HeritageSite, this city was central to thespice trade with colonialinfluences from the Portuguese,Dutch and British.645East CoastMany spots on the mainland or islands off the coast boastpure white sand beaches andsuperb places to stay.7Malaysia851234576Masjid Jamek mosque, Kuala LumpurThaipusam festival, near Kuala LumpurFresh vegetables at a marketPerhentian Islands, Malaysia's east coast