Use Grab, not street hails
Grab is the default for most visitors and usually cheaper than a street taxi. At the airport, follow the official pick-up signs; drivers may ask you to meet at a specific door.
Country hubAsia
Where to stay in Malaysia
One city of towers and hawker centres, plus islands and rainforest beyond it.
Kuala Lumpur is one of Southeast Asia's easiest big-city introductions: efficient app-based transport, a wide range of hotels and food that runs from hawker stalls to polished dining rooms. Use it as a base rather than a checklist, and leave time for the neighbourhoods beyond the towers. Penang and Borneo are the natural second stops. It is hot and humid year-round, with short heavy downpours rather than a single clean dry season.
Country hub
Malaysia
01
1 city guide
Country hub
- City guide
- Kuala Lumpur
- Country hub
- Asia
- On the desk
- George Town · Kota Kinabalu · Malacca
City guide
1 city guideCity guides in Malaysia
One city, deeply mapped — more are being researched.
Before you book
The country-level things that change the stay.
Malaysia · Country hub
Carry small cash for hawkers
Cards are common in malls and hotels, but hawker centres, some kopitiams and small shops prefer cash. Keep small notes and don't expect every stall to accept a large bill.
Dress for mosques and heat
Light, loose clothing is the practical choice. When visiting mosques, cover shoulders, knees and hair; many provide robes at the entrance, but arriving prepared is easier.
Country hub
Not sure which city to start with?
Tell me how long you have and what you want from the trip. I’ll help you choose the city and the base.
WhatsApp · Email
Ask about your routeA note from the editor
“I’d rather tell you which area to skip than sell you another list of ‘best hotels’.”
The guides are independent. Booking links may earn a commission; they never change the shortlist.
Email