Meet the wonders of Asia in one exciting destination...
Malaysia is one of the rising stars of South-East Asian tourism, a nation looking to the future while cherishing the ways of the past. Centuries of trade have resulted in a vibrant mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous tribal cultures, creating a veritable melting pot of peoples, traditions and religions that makes it a deeply intriguing place to visit.
Malaysia is ethnically and culturally diverse. City skyscrapers, the oldest rainforest in the world, tropical island resorts offer a taste of paradise, while beneath warm coral seas, world-class dive sites await exploration.
Forested hills, endless white, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters greet visitors to tropical Palau Langkawi, the largest of the 99 islands in Langkawi archipelago. Also known as "Legendary Island" thanks to the myths associated with its ancient geological formations, it drifts serenely in the azure Andaman Sea alongside Malaysia.
For the perfect holiday full of surprises, eclectic cultures and natural wonders, the time is now, the place is Malaysia...
Local time: GMT/UTC +8 Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
Climate: Tropical climate with warm weather all year round. Temperatures range from 21ºC to 32ºC. Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm. The rainy season is from September until mid November, during which time on average, there are about two hours of rain per day. Note that an hour of this precipitation usually comes during the night time. Even during rainy season, the mornings are usually filled with sunshine, with the rain coming during overcast afternoons. The mid-season (neither dry nor rainy) is from mid April until August. The mornings are again sunny, but the afternoons can be overcast. The dry season is from mid November until mid April, during which time there is very little rain
Language: Malay but English is commonly spoken
Best time to visit: Malaysia is hot and humid year-round. It's best to avoid the November to January rainy season on peninsular Malaysia's east coast if you want to enjoy the beaches
Things to do: Sample local cuisine at the night markets, hike to dramatic waterfalls or dive into an underwater marine park. Access is available via ferry or flights from Kuala Lumpur. Temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year on Langkawi
Things to know: Visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Malaysia. Nationals of most countries are given a 30- to 90-day visa on arrival
Insider tip: Visit the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Malaysia
