Circle Malaysia
Trip Valid:
01/01/2008 to 31/12/2008
Duration:
14 days (ex Kuala Lumpur)
Highlights:
Tour historic Melaka in a trishaw, Trek through an ancient rainforest, Learn the art of batik, Sample traditional Malay cuisine, Swim in the sparkling waters around Pulau Perhentian, Experience life in an island kampung (village)
Trip Code:
MSA
Group Size:
Minimum 1, Maximum 12
Price:
USD $1070
*(plus local payment MYR RM800)
pricing for United States: change country
Extras:
view 2008 airport transfers and pre- & post-trip accommodation prices
Since its emergence from colonial rule, Malaysia has developed a reputation as a land of diverse cultures, exotic foods and natural beauty and on this adventure, we delve into all these attractions more, bringing you up close and personal with outstanding colonial architecture, exotic marine life and ancient rainforests. There are also ample opportunities to meet Malaysian locals on forest walks and at our village guesthouse, as well as enjoy traditional hospitality at a kampung homestay.
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passenger feedback rating: 4.45 out of 5 how does this work?
meals included: 5 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners
transport: Train, bus, minivan, taxi, boat, trishaw, walking
accommodation: Hotels/guesthouses (11 nts), homestays (2 nts)
budget: Allow USD $195 for meals not included.
departs:
Day 1 Kuala Lumpur
A finely woven tapestry of Indian, Chinese and ethnic Malay cultures gives Kuala Lumpur its distinct identity as well as a delicious array of cuisines. To sample these delicacies, hit the night market and let the smells guide you.
Day 2 Melaka
Once an important tradition port, Melaka's wealth of historical sites remind visitors of times gone by. Explore the colonial heritage of this historic port town from the backseat of a trishaw and wander through the narrow streets to absorb the ambient vibe. Make sure to take time out to enjoy Melaka's multicultural heritage in the eateries on Jalan Kee Ann.
Days 3-5 Taman Negara National Park
Travel to one of the oldest rainforests in the world and see the steamy jungle from a monkey's point of view, while strolling along the canopy walk. Brave river rapids in longtail boats before returning to the guesthouse for a home-cooked Malay meal. Trek through the jungle to spot some of Malaysia's extraordinary wildlife, including many exotic birds. Once you've worked up a sweat, jump into the crystal-clear waters of the Tahan River to cool off before taking another walk to cascades further upstream. At the end of an active day, return to the guesthouse in a dugout canoe.
Day 6 Kuala Besut
Sat goodbye to the jungle and hello to the coast in Kuala Besut. Trawl the local market for traditional handicrafts and batik sarongs, or sample some of the fresh seafood this town is renowned for.
Days 7-9 Perhentian Islands
The sun-kissed beaches of the Perhentian Islands are an unforgettable tropical island destination. Located off the east coast of Malaysia, their unspoilt reefs, pure white sands and relaxed atmosphere will leave you captivated. Swim in sparkling turquoise waters, snorkel or search for hawksbills at the Turtle Sanctuary. Of course, lazing on the beach is also a popular option!
Day 10 Kota Bharu
Discover the secrets of local silversmiths, watch giant waus (traditional kites) being flown or learn the art of batik in this centre of Malay culture. There's also time here to sample northern delicacies such as nasi ulam and keropok losong, or hit the markets for some souvenir shopping.
Days 11-12 Island Hideaway
Prepare for lakeside bliss at an island hideaway. Stay with our longtime friends in their traditional home on the shores of a picturesque lake. Wake to the sound of gibbon calls and walk through peaceful kampungs and rubber plantations. Swim in nearby waterfalls and head out onto the lake for a spot of kayaking to work up an appetite for a traditional banquet. Eat regional specialties with your right hands, wearing sarongs and chatting to our friendly hosts for the ultimate Malaysian cultural experience.
Days 13-14 Kuala Lumpur
Don't miss the chance for some last-minute sightseeing. At night, head down to Petaling Street and encounter its hotchpotch of hawkers and street merchants.
| start date | finish date | places available | bookings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri 06 Jun 08 | Thu 19 Jun 08 | 3 | book now |
| Fri 20 Jun 08 | Thu 03 Jul 08 | 4 | book now |
| Fri 27 Jun 08 | Thu 10 Jul 08 | 6 | book now |
| Fri 04 Jul 08 | Thu 17 Jul 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 11 Jul 08 | Thu 24 Jul 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 18 Jul 08 | Thu 31 Jul 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 25 Jul 08 | Thu 07 Aug 08 | 3 | book now |
| Fri 01 Aug 08 | Thu 14 Aug 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 08 Aug 08 | Thu 21 Aug 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 22 Aug 08 | Thu 04 Sep 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 29 Aug 08 | Thu 11 Sep 08 | 7 | book now |
| Fri 05 Sep 08 | Thu 18 Sep 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 12 Sep 08 | Thu 25 Sep 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 19 Sep 08 | Thu 02 Oct 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 06 Mar 09 | Thu 19 Mar 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 20 Mar 09 | Thu 02 Apr 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 10 Apr 09 | Thu 23 Apr 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 24 Apr 09 | Thu 07 May 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 01 May 09 | Thu 14 May 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 15 May 09 | Thu 28 May 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 29 May 09 | Thu 11 Jun 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 12 Jun 09 | Thu 25 Jun 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 19 Jun 09 | Thu 02 Jul 09 | 7+ | book now |
| Fri 26 Jun 09 | Thu 09 Jul 09 | 7+ | book now |
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Every day, hundreds of happy people return from Intrepid trips, and their comments are here for you to read. We do not screen the feedback on this site, all comments are posted here as they were written (unless they used inappropriate language).
This was my first "backpack-trip" and I am allready looking forward to my next. The trip was a good mix of beaches, old cities, the rainforest - both sweat AND relaxation :).. Our guide was great and so was the group.I am amazed by how much I have experienced in only 2 weeks! The treks in the rainforest is my no.1 recommendation!!
Janne Soerensen
Once again a great Intrepid trip. Really well rounded and a nice mixture of things to do and see.
Janet Kennedy
Having just lost most of my feedback - must have hit the wrong key - how about a save button on the feedback page!!
More seriously, this was an excellent trip. I wasn't expecting much from visiting Malaysia having travelled lots in Asia (I lived in Hong Kong for 4 years). However, my expectations were well and truly exceeded. Good itinerary and the diversity of the people/culture and the trip itself was a real eye-opener: KL a big, noisy, lively asian city; Melakka a sleepy former colonial town with a well preserved chinatown; Taman Negara a lush jungle with great walks and atmosphere; Perhentian Islands with fab snorkelling; and finally the tranquil Island Retreat.
Megan Thomas
Good trip content. jungle adventure, Island relax and cultural homestay.
Claire Lindner
