This a land of beauty and extremes; beautiful palm fringed beaches, lush mountains, virgin forests, ancient temples, and myths contrasting with tall skyscrapers, modern highways and expressways, the most luxurious hotels, exciting nightlife and shopping malls.

Due to it geographical location Malaysia was once an important trading base for traders from all over the world. Thus the country was influenced by the Indians, Arabs, Europeans, Chinese, British and Japanese who each introduced to the locals their customs and religion.

Malaysia’s multicultural, multiracial, multireligious and political aspirations have all influenced society as it stands today. The Malaysians are proud of their country but are aware of the many problems it also faces and there is an honesty and friendliness about the people that is very charming.

Many Malaysians will go out of their way to help a lost tourist or to suggest interesting places to see in their country. It is also not unusual for the locals in the smaller villages to open up their homes to tourists allowing them an opportunity to experience village life.

Each of the 13 states in Malaysia is blessed with spectacular beauty, things to do and places to visit but perhaps the most popular states are the ones with the beaches.

There are more than 70 beach resorts scattered all around Malaysia. Some are located in central Malaysia, not far from the city and other beaches are in the southern regions in Johor and Melaka; northern regions of Kedah with its famous Langkawi Island and Pulau Payar Marine Park, Penang and Perak which has Pangkor Islands.

Within a day’s drive from Kuala Lumpur is historical Melaka, the old Portuguese city, founded more than 600 years ago. The Dutch and the British also occupied Melaka and have left their mark in the architecture and culture of the city.

The old Portuguese fort, A’ Famosa, that was built in 1511, still stands proudly after restoration work carried out by Sir Stamford Raffles was undertaken in 1806. St. Paul’s Church, the museum that was once the residence of the Dutch governors, the 17th century St Francis Xavier’s church are all inspiring and interesting places to visit.

The northern side of Malaysia holds three main states; Kedah, Penang and Perak. All three states have attractive beaches and plenty of interesting places to visit including palaces, old temples, caves, rice and rubber plantations. Each state is distinct from the other in food, culture and history.

The East Coast of Malaysia is perhaps Malaysia’s best kept secret. Although there has been much development over the years the people have retained their village charms and are open and friendly. The beaches here are impressive with white sands leading up to azure waters. Sabah and Sarawak are two large states that are separated from the peninsular of Malaysia by the South China Seas.

Malaysians are known to have every meeting, formal or informal, over a meal. Thus there is no shortage of restaurants in this country. In all the states international and local cuisine can be easily found. The local cuisine is usually spicy and coconut milk is often used to make curries and cook rice.

Being a multicultural and multiracial country there are many festivals that are celebrated with much joy. The people of Malaysia live in harmony despite their many cultural and religious differences and the country is very safe to visit. There are no health concerns and medical facilities here are excellent.