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MALAYSIA

Things to do, where to stay,
where to eat...

Kuala Lumpur:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Petronas Twin Towers and walk across the Skybridge
2- Explore the Batu Caves, a series of limestone caves with Hindu shrines
3- Shop and eat at Central Market, a historic indoor market selling local handicrafts and street food
4- Visit the National Museum and learn about Malaysia's history and culture
5- Take a stroll through KLCC Park, a green space with a man-made lake and a children's playground

Where to stay:

  • Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur: A boutique hotel that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation and recycling.

  • The Ruma Hotel and Residences: A luxury hotel that has been recognized for its sustainable initiatives, including using energy-efficient appliances and implementing a waste management program.

Where to eat:

  • Fittie Sense - This vegan and vegetarian restaurant is a must-visit for health-conscious foodies. The restaurant serves a range of plant-based dishes, from smoothie bowls to jackfruit rendang. The decor is minimalist and modern, with plenty of natural light.

  • Pokok KL - This rooftop cafe offers stunning views of the city skyline and is located in the trendy area of Bukit Bintang. The menu features a mix of Malaysian and Western dishes, and the cafe is known for its creative cocktails. The decor is tropical and laid-back, with plenty of greenery and outdoor seating options.

  • Kedai Kopi Journal - This restaurant serves a mix of local and Western dishes with a creative twist. The restaurant has a cozy and casual atmosphere, with a mix of wooden and industrial decor. Try their signature dish, the Journal Nasi Lemak Burger, which features a beef or chicken patty served with nasi lemak accompaniments such as sambal and peanuts.

Penang:

Things to do:

1- Explore Georgetown's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful colonial architecture
2- Visit the Kek Lok Si Temple, a large Buddhist temple with a towering pagoda and a statue of the Goddess of Mercy
3- Try the famous Penang street food, including char kway teow, laksa, and nasi kandar
4- Take a funicular railway up to Penang Hill for panoramic views of the island
5- Visit the Tropical Spice Garden, a lush botanical garden featuring herbs and spices grown in Southeast Asia.

Where to stay:

  • Lone Pine Hotel: A hotel that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as using energy-efficient appliances and recycling.

  • Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa: An eco-friendly resort that has been awarded the Green Globe certification for its commitment to sustainability, including using energy-efficient appliances and implementing water conservation measures.

Where to eat:

  • Jawi House Cafe Gallery in Georgetown

  • The Alley Cafe in Butterworth

  • Jawi Peranakan Mansion in Georgetown

Malacca:

Things to do:

1- Visit the historic sites of Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the A'Famosa Fort, St. Paul's Church, and the Dutch Square
2- Try the famous Malacca cuisine, including Nyonya cuisine, Portuguese-style seafood, and chicken rice balls
3- Visit the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, a restored Peranakan house showcasing the culture and lifestyle of the Chinese-Malay community
4- Take a river cruise along the Malacca River and see the city's landmarks from the water
5- Visit the Jonker Street Night Market, a vibrant market selling antiques, souvenirs, and street food.

Where to stay:

  • The Shore Hotel & Residences: A hotel that uses energy-efficient appliances and implements eco-friendly practices, such as recycling and using locally sourced ingredients in its restaurant.

  • Hatten Hotel Melaka: A hotel that has been awarded the Green Key certification for its commitment to sustainability, including using energy-efficient appliances and implementing a waste management program.

 

Where to eat:

  • The Daily Fix in Jonker Street

  • Backlane Coffee in Jonker Street

  • The Fat Bee Cafe in Klebang


Sabah:

Things to do:

1- Climb Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia
2- Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and see the endangered orangutans up close
3- Go island hopping and explore the white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
4- Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village and learn about the traditional cultures of Sabah's indigenous tribes
5- Take a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River and spot the proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and other wildlife.

Where to stay:

  • Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa: An eco-friendly resort that has been awarded the Green Globe certification for its commitment to sustainability, including using energy-efficient appliances and implementing water conservation measures.

  • Borneo Eco Fish Resort: An eco-resort that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as rainwater harvesting and recycling.

Where to eat:

  • Breakfast Story in Kota Kinabalu

  • Yoyo Cafe in Kota Kinabalu

  • The B Side in Kota Kinabalu

Sarawak:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Mulu National Park and explore the vast limestone caves, including the Deer Cave and the Clearwater Cave
2- Visit the Bako National Park and see the endangered proboscis monkeys and other wildlife
3- Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village and learn about the traditional cultures of Sarawak's indigenous tribes
4- Take a boat ride along the Batang Ai River and visit the longhouses of the Iban tribe
5- Try the famous Sarawak laksa, a spicy noodle dish with coconut milk and prawns


These are just a few examples, but Malaysia has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, nature, and food.

Where to stay:

  • Batik Boutique Hotel: A hotel that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation and recycling.

  • Damai Beach Resort: A resort that has been recognized for its sustainable initiatives, including using energy-efficient appliances and implementing a waste management program.

Where to eat:

  • The Granary Kitchen + Bar in Kuching

  • Rainforest Garden Cafe in Kuching

  • Black Bean Coffee & Tea Company in Kuching


Johor:

Things to do:

1- Visit Legoland Malaysia, a theme park featuring Lego-inspired rides and attractions
2- Explore the historic Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Johor Bahru
3- Visit the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, a beautiful mosque built in the late 19th century with a mix of European and Malay architectural styles
4- Go shopping at Johor Premium Outlets, a popular shopping destination for fashion brands at discounted prices
5- Visit the Johor Zoo and see the wide range of animals from all over the world

Where to stay:

 

  • Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort: A sustainable hotel that has been awarded the Green Globe certification for its environmental initiatives, including using energy-efficient appliances and solar-powered water heaters.

  • The Pines Melaka: A hotel that has been recognized for its commitment to sustainable practices, including recycling and using locally sourced ingredients in its restaurant.

Where to eat:

  • Chaiwalla & Co. Container Cafe in Johor Bahru

  • Sangkaya in Johor Bahru

  • Shakespeare Milkshakes in Taman Mount Austin

Perak:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Ipoh Old Town, a charming town known for its colonial-era architecture and famous white coffee
2- Explore the Kellie's Castle, an unfinished mansion built by a Scottish planter in the early 20th century
3- Visit the Gua Tempurung Cave, a limestone cave system with impressive rock formations and underground rivers
4- Take a dip in the natural hot springs at Lost World of Tambun, a theme park with water park and adventure rides
5- Visit the Royal Belum State Park, a vast rainforest reserve home to a wide range of wildlife and plants.

Where to stay:

  • Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat: An eco-resort that has been awarded the Green Globe certification for its environmental initiatives, including using energy-efficient appliances and implementing a waste management program.

  • The Haven Resort Hotel, Ipoh: A resort that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation and recycling.

Where to eat:

  • Plan B Roasters in Ipoh

  • Kopi Hutan in Ipoh

  • Burps & Giggles in Ipoh

Pahang:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Cameron Highlands, a hill station known for its tea plantations, strawberry farms, and cool climate
2- Explore the Taman Negara National Park, a rainforest reserve with a diverse range of flora and fauna
3- Visit the Genting Highlands, a popular hill resort with a theme park, casino, and indoor entertainment center
4- Visit the Batu Caves Temple in Gombak, a Hindu temple with a large golden statue of Lord Murugan
5- Take a scenic drive along the East Coast Road, passing through picturesque coastal towns and fishing villages.

Where to stay:

  • Mangala Resort & Spa: An eco-resort that has been awarded the Green Globe certification for its environmental initiatives, including using solar energy and implementing a waste management program.

  • The Chateau Spa & Organic Wellness Resort: A luxury hotel that uses organic and sustainable materials, implements eco-friendly practices such as rainwater harvesting and recycling, and features an organic farm.

Where to eat:

  • Pak Mat's Cafe in Kuantan

  • Croissant Taiyaki in Kuantan

  • The Wood's Cafe in Bentong

Terengganu:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Redang Island, a popular snorkeling and diving destination with clear waters and colorful marine life
2- Explore the Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque, a unique mosque with a stunning crystal dome and intricate Islamic designs
3- Visit the Kenyir Lake, a large man-made lake surrounded by lush rainforest and waterfalls
4- Visit the Crystal Mosque in Kuala Terengganu, a modern mosque made of steel and glass that reflects on the water at night
5- Try the traditional Terengganu cuisine, including nasi dagang, keropok lekor, and otak-otak


These are just some examples of the popular things to do in Malaysia, classified by state. There are plenty more attractions, activities, and experiences to discover throughout the country.

Where to stay:

  • Tanjong Jara Resort: An eco-friendly resort that has been awarded the Green Globe certification for its environmental initiatives, including using energy-efficient appliances and implementing water conservation measures.

  • The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort: A resort that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as recycling and using locally sourced ingredients in its restaurant.

Where to eat:

  • Mokakopi Cafe in Kuala Terengganu

  • Hai Peng Kopitiam in Kemaman

  • Nasi Lemak Tapai Pulut in Dungun

 

Kedah:

Things to do:

1- Visit Langkawi Island, a beautiful island with white sand beaches, clear waters, and duty-free shopping
2- Explore the Alor Setar Tower, the tallest tower in Kedah that offers panoramic views of the city
3- Visit the Lembah Bujang Archaeological Museum, a museum showcasing artifacts from the ancient Hindu-Buddhist civilization that once existed in Kedah
4- Try the famous Kedah laksa, a spicy noodle dish with fish broth and local herbs and spices
5- Visit the Wat Nikrodharam, a Thai temple with beautiful architecture and ornate decorations

Where to stay:
 

  • The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort: An eco-friendly resort that has received several awards for its commitment to sustainability, including the Green Globe certification and the ASEAN Green Hotel Award.

  • Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi: A resort that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation and recycling.

Where to eat:

  • Padi House in Alor Setar

  • Kolam Cafe in Alor Setar

  • Bunga Emas in Sungai Petani

Negeri Sembilan:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Seri Menanti Royal Museum, a former palace of the Negeri Sembilan royal family that has been converted into a museum
2- Explore the Port Dickson Beach, a popular beach destination with a variety of water sports activities
3- Visit the Jelita Ostrich Farm, a farm where visitors can learn about and interact with ostriches
4- Visit the Sri Menanti Night Market, a lively night market selling local food and handicrafts
5- Try the traditional Negeri Sembilan dish, masak lemak cili api, a spicy coconut curry with local vegetables and meats

Where to stay:

  • Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson: An eco-friendly resort that has been awarded the Green Building Index certification for its sustainable design and practices, including using energy-efficient appliances and implementing water conservation measures.

  • The Shorea: An eco-retreat that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as rainwater harvesting and recycling.

Where to eat:

  • Nasi Arab Hadramot in Seremban

  • Cendol Durian & Rojak Pak Haji in Seremban

  • The Port Cafe & Bistro in Port Dickson

Kelantan:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Kota Bharu Cultural Centre, a museum showcasing the history and culture of Kelantan
2- Explore the Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah, a bustling market selling a wide range of local products including food, textiles, and handicrafts
3- Visit the Istana Jahar, a former royal palace that has been converted into a museum showcasing the traditional Kelantanese way of life
4- Try the famous Kelantanese dish, nasi kerabu, a blue-colored rice dish with local herbs and spices
5- Visit the Handicraft Village and Craft Museum, a museum showcasing the traditional crafts of Kelantan including batik, weaving, and silverware making

Where to stay:

  • Villa Danialla Beach Resort: A beachfront eco-resort that is powered by solar energy and implements sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials in its construction.

  • Jemputree, Kota Bharu: An eco-friendly boutique hotel that uses locally sourced materials and implements energy-saving measures, such as LED lighting and solar-powered water heaters.

Where to eat:

  • Teratak Cafe in Kota Bharu

  • Kedai Ayamas Mek Mebi in Kota Bharu

  • Kedai Kopi White House in Kota Bharu

Perlis:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Perlis State Park, a nature reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, and caves
2- Explore the Kuala Perlis Jetty, a bustling jetty that connects Perlis with Langkawi Island and other nearby islands
Visit the Arau Royal Palace, a former royal residence of the Perlis royal family that has been converted into a museum
3- Try the famous Perlis dish, laksa Perlis, a spicy noodle dish with fish broth and local herbs and spices
Visit the Gua Kelam Recreational Park, a cave system with a limestone tunnel that leads to a scenic waterfall.

Where to stay:

  • Putra Regency Hotel: A hotel that uses sustainable materials and implements eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation and recycling.

  • Saujana Jitra Resort: An eco-friendly resort that uses sustainable materials and implements energy-saving measures, such as LED lighting and solar-powered water heaters.

Where to eat:

  • Restoran Sri Mustaqim in Kangar

  • Sara Thai Kitchen in Arau

  • B'Little Cafe in Kangar

Putrajaya:

Things to do:

1- Visit the Putra Mosque, a beautiful mosque with pink dome and minarets
2- Explore the Putrajaya Lake, a man-made lake with a variety of water sports activities
3- Visit the Putrajaya Botanical Garden, a large park with a variety of flora and fauna from all over the world
4- Visit the Perdana Putra, the Prime Minister's office complex that has been converted into a museum showcasing the history and development of Malaysia

5- Try the local cuisine at the Putrajaya Night Market, a lively market selling a variety of local food and handicrafts.
These are just some examples of the popular things to do in the remaining states in Malaysia.

Where to stay:

  • Green certification: The hotel has received the Green Globe Certification for its sustainable practices, which include water and energy conservation, waste reduction, and the use of environmentally friendly products.

  • Location: The hotel is situated next to a beautiful lake, surrounded by lush greenery, which provides a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere for guests.

  • Eco-friendly amenities: The hotel has a range of eco-friendly amenities, including a rainwater harvesting system, energy-efficient lighting, and a recycling program.

  • Sustainable dining: The hotel's restaurant, B's All Day Dining, offers a range of organic and locally sourced ingredients, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.

  • Nature activities: The hotel provides a range of outdoor activities, such as cycling, bird-watching, and kayaking, which allow guests to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Where to eat:

  1. Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside Hotel - The hotel's restaurant, B's All Day Dining, offers a range of organic and locally sourced ingredients, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. The hotel also has a green certification for its sustainable practices.

  2. Warung Pak Su - This traditional Malay restaurant is known for its Nasi Campur, a dish of mixed rice with a variety of meat, vegetables, and spices. The restaurant has a modern and hipster vibe, with indoor and outdoor seating options.

  3. Charcoal BBQ & Grill - This restaurant specializes in grilled meats and seafood, with a focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with rustic decor and an open kitchen. The restaurant also offers shisha for those who want to enjoy a post-meal smoke.

 

Each state has its own unique attractions and experiences, and there's always something new to discover in this diverse and culturally rich country.

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