Malaysia is three countries in one — the Malay heartland, Chinese trading ports, and Indian traditions, all woven together with some of the world's oldest rainforests and best street food. Here's where to go.
Kuala Lumpur
The Petronas Twin Towers dominate the skyline — book tickets in advance for the skybridge. Batu Caves, just outside the city, features a giant golden statue of Lord Murugan and 272 rainbow-colored steps leading to limestone cave temples. For street food, Jalan Alor is legendary — sizzling satay, char kway teow, and icy cendol.
Penang: Food Capital of Asia
George Town is a UNESCO-listed wonder of colonial architecture, street art, and some of the best food in the world. Hunt for Ernest Zacharevic's murals in the old town. Eat assam laksa (spicy-sour fish noodle soup), nasi kandar (rice with curries), and cendol (shaved ice with coconut milk and palm sugar) — all in one day.
Malaysian Borneo
Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo offer something completely different: 130-million-year-old rainforests, orangutans at Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre, Mount Kinabalu (4,095m), and some of the world's best diving at Sipadan Island. The rainforest canopy walk in Danum Valley is a bucket-list experience.
