Malaysia Cultures and cuisines at the crossroads of Asia
Malaysia certainly lives up to its slogan: truly Asia. This welcoming nation in southeast Asia has been influenced by Chinese, Indian, Muslim and European traders who all settled here – and the different cultures are openly celebrated and enjoyed. You could find yourself tucking into roti canai (an Indian flat bread) for breakfast, dumplings for lunch and Nasi lemak (a rice specialty) for dinner. Rich heritage aside, Malaysia also serves up dynamic cities, superb beaches and spectacular wildlife. And Cosa can help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Where it is
Southeast Asia
When to go
December to April
Why go there
Pristine beaches
Vibrant cities
Tropical rainforests
What to see
Kuala Lumpur
Langkawi
Sabah
A capital of contrasts
In Kuala Lumpur, affectionately called KL, traditional neighbourhoods like Kampung Baru share space with the city’s signature skyscrapers – the gleaming twin Petronas Towers.
Perfect island bliss
Langkawi is home to some of the best beaches in Malaysia. Expect powder sands and bath-temperature waters, as well as rainforests teeming with wildlife.
Eat your way round Penang
Arrive in Penang with an appetite as the food scene here is legendary. Cosa will take you to where the locals eat so you can try specialties such as spicy asam laksa.
Close encounters with orangutans
Come face to face with a true king of the jungle at a conservation centre in Sabah on the island of Borneo where you can see and help care for orangutans. Unforgettable!
Travel in Malaysia
The country consists of two separate regions – Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo – separated by the South China Sea, and your Malaysian trip can take in both, with a bespoke itinerary tailored to your interests. From sampling satay and laksa, two of the best-known national dishes, to experiencing the skyscraper-punctured capital of Kuala Lumpur – or lazing in Langkawi, trust Cosa to take you there. We can also suggest memorable accommodation from hotels in restored historic buildings to stylish city boltholes and luxury beach resorts.
Malaysia facts
Malaysia achieved independence from the British Empire in 1957 as Malaya, and then six years later united with North Borneo and Sarawak. It is a constitutional monarchy but with an unusual royal system: the office of monarch rotates between nine hereditary state rulers every five years. However it’s not a king who is the nation’s most famous son but a shoe designer. Born in Penang, Jimmy Choo made his first pair of shoes at the age of 11 and went on to become a household name.
Time zone
UTC +8
Flight time
12 hours from Switzerland
Local currency
Malaysian Ringgit
Dialling code
+60
