Malaysia Snapshot

The climate in Malaysia is generally hot and humid throughout the year. Temperatures do not fluctuate much and stay in the 30s most of the day, dropping back to the mid to high 20s at night. This makes Malaysia a great place for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing in the sun.

Humidity is higher during the wet season and can be quite oppressive for those not used to it. The wet season changes from coast to coast. From November to April, the wet season hits the east coast of the peninsula and it is dry on the west coast. During May to October it is dry on the east coast and wet on the west.

Some people of Malaysia observe Ramadan. If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it is important to consider that some restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating on reduced hours during this time.
  • Kuala Lumpur weather chart

Eating and Drinking in Malaysia

  • Malay: Delicious roti, chicken rice, spicy sambal eggplant and kopi peng (iced coffee).
  • Baba Nonya/Peranaken Cuisine: Fresh spring rolls, babi chin (stewed pork belly) and Mee Siam (rice noodles).
  • Indian: Aromatic curries, cool lassis, delicious daal and sweet fried coconut balls.
  • Chinese: Hearty noodle broths, Peking duck pancakes and chrysanthemum tea.
  • Delicious roti

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Malaysia’s melting pot of cultural influences is evident in its cuisine.

Shopping in Malaysia

  • Kuala Lumpur: The capital’s huge malls offer loads of variety and opportunities to shop. Shoes, bags and accessories are all great buys - from haute couture labels to chic chain-store fashions.
  • Melaka: Home to a diverse range of artisans and craftsmen. Browse the markets, galleries and shops to pick up antiques, art and bespoke items. Handcrafted wooden ornaments, leather sandals, vibrant woven bags and antique coins are the best picks.
  • Penang: Boasts an eclectic mix of sleek malls, independent stores, interesting boutiques and open-air street markets. Head to Little India to source Indian-inspired saris, garlands and silver jewellery or stroll along Rope Walk to find one-of-a-kind antiques and treasures.
  • Langkawi: This island has duty-free status, making it a great place to buy fragrances, watches, cameras and other technology. For art lovers, the Craft Cultural Complex showcases locally made fabric, ceramics, baskets and jewellery.
  • Local artians

Malaysia has a shopping experience to suit travellers on all budgets. From dazzling, modern malls and exciting night markets to boutique speciality stores, the opportunity to buy something special is never far away.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Accommodation

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Malaysia you may find yourself staying in a:
Homestay
  • Homestay

  • Stay with a local family in their traditional home, built on the shore of a peaceful lake. With a chance to explore nearby villages and swim in local waterfalls, this authentic getaway offers immersion in the local way of life.

Transport

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Malaysia, you may find yourself travelling by:
Trishaw
  • Trishaw

  • Weave your way through the winding streets of historic Melaka on a trishaw ride, spotting heritage-filled buildings along the way.
  • Local Bus

  • Rub shoulders with other commuters while riding a local bus. An easy and economical option, you’ll get where you need to go on the cheap.
  • Longtail Boat

  • Hop aboard and cruise down rivers and channels in a classic South-East Asian mode of transport - a longtail boat.