Malaysia: The Lush Country You Need to Add to your Travel Bucket List

Kuala Lumpur – An Urban Oasis

As soon as I landed in KL I was awe-struck. The people were friendly and their hospitality is unmatched. The drive into the City though a bit long is beautiful! The country is 65% lush greenery after all. Once in the City you are met with such sophistication. This is a first world country in all respects. Check out the itinerary below for some inspiration or contact me to help you make your next bougie on a budget trip a reality!

Prepare for a week of unparalleled luxury and indulgence as we embark on an unforgettable journey through Malaysia’s most captivating destinations. From the vibrant streets of Kuala Lumpur to the serene shores of Langkawi, join me on an odyssey where opulence meets adventure, and every moment is a celebration of the extraordinary.

Day 1: Arrival in KL

I am not the type of person to stay just anywhere! But I am not going to pay a pretty penny for it if I can help it. Malaysia is one of the few places where five star hotels are CHEAP! I can recommend other hotels but by far the most conveniently located has to be the Mandarin Oriental. Bonus points if you are an MO member because you can get free breakfast which will be super helpful if you are an early riser like me!

Don’t expect most things to be open any earlier than 10 am! I was very surprised that they run on island time.

If you arrive in KL early, hitting the City sights will be a short walk away from the hotel. You can check out the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve which is a rainforest right in the middle of the City!

You know the famous CN tower? Well KL has one just like it and you can go up to the top where you can get incredible views of the City.

Day 2: Petronas Twin Towers

Start with a visit to the awe-inspiring Petronas Twin Towers. Be sure to purchase your tickets a few days in advance as it is likely to sell out. Did you know the Petronas Twin Towers used to be the tallest buildings in the world before Dubai took their claim?

Marvel at the feat of architecture before indulging in a shopping spree right underneath at Suria KLCC mall. Home to luxury boutiques and designer labels you’ll find everything under the sun! Definitely better than any malls we have at home in the States.

Day 3: Batu Caves

Wake up bright and early to head out just a bit outside the City to the majestic Batu Caves. You can take a train which is a nice experience but Grab’s (their version of Uber) is so cheap it’s quicker to drive everywhere.

The stunning Hindu shrines of Batu Caves are nestled within the limestone caverns are captivating. Be sure to cover your knees and shoulders before entering as it is a holy place. You can rent a sarong at the entrance if you forget.

Also, watch out for the monkeys. They are cute but can be aggressive and will steal your things.

When you make your way back to the City get on the Hop On Hop Off! Normally I wouldn’t recommend it but a lot of the sights are far from each other and on different ends of the City.

The best sights to visit in my personal opinion are the Perdana Botanic Gardens, The National Palace and the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. The best part is one of the stops is right at the Mandarin Oriental!

Day 5: The Danna

Fly to Langkawi and arrive at The Danna, an exquisite sanctuary of luxury and serenity nestled amidst lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Included in the price of your stay is a transfer to and from the airport and it’s only 15 minutes away from the airport. If you can opt for the ocean view take advantage! It is in incredible!

Day 6: Cable Car Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating cable car ride to the summit of Langkawi’s iconic Gunung Mat Cincang, where panoramic views of the island’s lush landscapes and turquoise waters await. If you’re anything like me and severely afraid of heights despite wanting to be Indiana Jones you may need the rest of the afternoon to recover!

Otherwise head to the other side of the Island for duty free shopping and more pristine beaches.

Day 7: Mangrove Tour

Wake up early and delve into the island’s natural wonders with a mangrove tour, where you’ll navigate through winding waterways, spotting exotic wildlife and ancient limestone formations along the way.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 – Arrive in Kuala Lumpur

Check into the Mandarin Oriental where you can begin your exploration of this vibrant city. Conveniently situated at the foot of the Petronas Twin Towers.
Day 2 – Malaysia’s Islamic Heritage

Discover another facet of Malaysia’s cultural mix with a visit to the Islamic Arts Museum, the largest of its kind in southeast Asia.
Day 3 – Cave Temple

Wake up early to head to Sam Poh Tong Temple, hewn into a cave at the foot of a limestone pinnacle. Watch out with the monkeys!
Day 4 – Cameron Highlands

Set out early for Boh Tea Plantation, where you try your hand at picking tea leaves, observe the artful work of processing tea and sip a freshly brewed cup yourself. This afternoon, choose to explore this scenic area during a hike through a cloud forest, or relax at your hotel, savoring a traditional high tea.
Day 5 – Langkawi

Fly to Langkawi and arrive at The Danna, an exquisite sanctuary of luxury and serenity nestled amidst lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Check into your luxurious accommodations and unwind with a leisurely stroll along the resort’s private beach.
Day 6 – Cable Car Magic

Embark on an exhilarating cable car ride to the summit of Langkawi’s iconic Gunung Mat Cincang, where panoramic views of the island’s lush landscapes and turquoise waters await.
Day 7 – Mangroves

Delve into the island’s natural wonders with a mangrove tour, where you’ll navigate through winding waterways, spotting exotic wildlife and ancient limestone formations along the way.
Day 8 – Depart