7 Reasons to love Malaysia

Malaysia is a country full of contrasts and exciting cultures. The majority are Muslims, but side by side people with different cultures and religions lives in peace and harmony. For those who crave big cities, Kuala Lumpur is one of the best. Longing for sun and beaches? You will find plenty of fantastic paradise beaches in the Malaysian islands.

Malaysia is one of my favorite countries in Asia and here are 7 reasons to love Malaysia and why it should be your next destination.

1. The mix of the new and old

For those who like to experience both old and new, Malaysia is an ideal destination. In the major cities, there are massive skyscrapers, modern hotels, and large shopping centers at the same time in other parts of the city; one could find old temples and more local areas where life is simple.

Thanks to the multiculturalism that exists in the country, you can also experience the new and old from many cultures. Especially China and India that have made a great impact, but also the Malay culture and of course the western culture.

2. The food

Love a good meal of food? In Malaysia, there are delicious foods everywhere, so it is enough and left for a whole year. Food stalls are lined up along the streets; serving fresh and delicious food in many varieties. At the same time, you can sit down at a more upscale restaurant and be served a gourmet dinner without breaking the bank.

The Malay cuisine itself is interesting, and there are lots of local dishes to try. My best tip is just to sit down and order anything on the menu. The probability that you get something disgusting is tiny, even if you could get something that you might not have imagined.

Nasi lemak is considered by many to be the national dish of Malaysia and should not be missed.

3. Affordable

Southeast Asia is generally inexpensive compared to our prices at home in Sweden, Europe, and the US, and Malaysia is no exception. But, compared other countries in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is more developed, and there are something for everyone, both budget and upscale.

In Kuala Lumpur and Penang, one will find some of Asia’s most exclusive shopping centers with all the designer brands you can think of in huge malls with hundreds of stores.

Food and transport are also cheap.

4. The beaches

Malaysia’s beaches are reason enough to love the country. But, the marine wildlife offers an enjoyable experience with tropical fishes and colorful coral reefs as well.

5. Nature

It is not just paradise beaches that impress in Malaysia, but also nature itself, which is lush and beautiful in many places. Among other things, Borneo is one of these natural gems that Malaysia has to offer its visitors.

6. Ginger Tea

Have you tried tea with ginger? It’s delicious, but in Malaysia, they take it just a bit longer and add the condensed milk in their own tea with ginger. The result is magically good, and ginger tea is served both cold and hot. My favorite, however, is the warm ginger tea, which gives a perfect start.

Ginger tea is served in almost all Malaysian restaurants.

7. Georgetown

Named by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s best destinations, and rightly so. Street art in Georgetown along with street food provides an unforgettable experience. Besides that, the culture of Georgetown has always been a great mix of Chinese, Malay and Indian, which in turn have resulted in a unique destination.

Georgetown is located in Penang and is one of Malaysia’s most popular destinations.