The most popular destinations in Malaysia dot the west coast of the country's peninsula. If you have little time, you can stick to this central corridor and still experience fascinating Malaysian heritage and gorgeous outdoors without traveling too far.
Kuala Lumpur, the nation's capital, lies about midway between the northern border with Thailand and the tip of the peninsula, before you reach Singapore. For a newcomer, the city's museums, shopping, and delicious dining choices make it a good introduction to Malaysia's culture. Kuala Lumpur is a great jumping-off point for discovering Malaysia's jungles as well.
The sleepy town of Malacca, a 2 1/2-hour drive south of the capital city, has remarkably retained much of its old-world charm, with evidence of previous Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial administrations mixed with the cultures of the Arabs, Indians, and Chinese who settled and traded here centuries ago.
Pulau Pangkor, or Pangkor Island, is a secluded island hideaway with delicious tropical resorts dripping with Southeast Asian ambience, a mere half-hour's flight from Kuala Lumpur.
Farther north, Penang is perhaps Malaysia's most popular destination. Once the seat of British colonial power in the region, Penang still bears signs of its former inhabitants. Georgetown, the main town on the island, bustles with charm -- narrow streets, old shophouses, curious places of worship, and terrific street food. If you stay in Penang's resort area, you can enjoy the stimulating culture and the relaxing beach in one destination.
Finally, north of Penang, Langkawi has the greatest collection of stunning beach resorts to choose from. In the Andaman Sea, it also has the best waters of all the west coast attractions -- blue and crystal clear.
