Incredible wildlife, crystal clear beaches, top notch shopping and authentic Asian cuisine – those are just a few of the reasons to plan a long-haul trip to Malaysia. But if you’re not quite sure where to start, fret not, for we’ve compiled a handy guide to two of Malaysia’s most popular destinations…
Where to stay
Kuala Lumpur
If you’re planning on visiting the vibrant capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, then a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur should be high on your itinerary list. The five-stay luxury hotel is the ideal stay for adults looking to unwind and relax, whilst being near the city’s most popular tourist sights, like the Petronas Twin Towers which is a just stroll away (although children are welcome at the hotel, too!).
A luxurious home away from home, each room in the hotel is decked out with an opulent marble bathroom, ultra-comfortable bed, and modern furnishings. The room service, of course, is outstanding, and as an extra touch, The Ritz-Carlton Club guests benefit from 24-hour Butler service and personalised check-in and check-out.
Borneo
Just a short flight from Kuala Lumpur, the beautiful island of Borneo is home to the Gaya Island Resort – an eco-luxury sanctuary loved by both couples and families alike. Situated within the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, this beautiful beachfront resort boasts exceptional views of the sandy coast, but also the magnificent outline of Mount Kinabalu.
Accommodation on the resort is something out of a movie, compromising of idyllic villas that are set in amidst rainforest backdrops, tucked away in the hills. The design inside is modern, yet complemented with local Sabahan features, for a natural, authentic feel. As the resort is passionate about eco-friendly initiatives (from conservation through education to rescue programmes), motor transport is limited, and so a short uphill walk is required to reach some of the villas.
Where to eat
Kuala Lumpur
For a Michelin dining experience, we recommend booking a table at Li Yen, which is conveniently located in the The Ritz-Carlton hotel. The restaurant has been artistically designed, boasting elegant floral walls and striking mirrors, and serves both Hong Kong dim sum and authentic Chinese dishes that will appease even the most hard-to-impress guests.
Borneo
If you’re after dinner with a view, head to Fisherman’s Cove at the Gaya Island Resort, where you’ll dine on a rooftop with a view of Mount Kinabalu. This seafood-themed restaurant offers a selection of fresh fish and shellfish, all procured via sustainable fishing practices.
For a truly memorable experience, opt for a private barbeque on the beach, where you’ll feast on a bounty of the land and sea. Your beach table will be decorated with romantic candles, and you’ll be surrounded by beautiful hand-drawn designs in the sand around where you’re sitting.
What to do
Kuala Lumpur
If you’re on a stopover trip and won’t have much time to explore the wider city area, then an afternoon at the hotel’s spa won’t go amiss. From full body to foot massages, and sensory sound baths to manicures, there’s lots of traditional Malay treatments on offer.
If you do have some free time, the Petronas Twin Towers - which are the most recognisable landmark in the city - are worth a visit. You can head up to the towers’ observation deck, which is situated on the 87th floor, for a mesmerising view of the city. At the bottom of the towers is a bustling shopping centre with plenty of designer and high-street stores to browse.
Borneo
With so many natural wonders on the island of Borneo, there’s plenty of exciting things to see and do. At the Gaya Island Resort, you can relax and unwind at the pool or by sandy beach or treat yourself to a restorative massage, full body scrub or fragrance class at the tranquil Spa Village.
For those who are looking for something a little more active, you can embark on a snorkelling experience or even visit the local mangroves on a kayaking trip. Wildlife enthusiasts will relish in a jungle trek across the rainforest, where if you’re lucky you can spot monkeys, lizards and even snakes!
One activity that we highly recommend is a trip to the resort’s Marine Centre, which is home to turtle rescue and coral reef restoration initiatives implemented by Scott Mayback, the resort's Resident Marine Biologist. You’ll get to see the rehabilitated turtles up close and learn more about the island’s bustling sea life.
