Malaysia City Breaks

For those interested in a cultural city break, there is arguably nowhere better than Malaysia. This exotic South East Asian destination is a melting pot of different religions and cultures, with Malays, Chinese, Indians and many other ethnic groups calling the country home. As such, Malaysian cuisine is an exciting mid of flavours and influences, there are hundreds of vibrant festivals throughout the year, and the range of holiday experiences to be had in Malaysia is as diverse as the country itself. Malaysia consists of two parts separated by the South China Sea into two regions; Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo. City breaks in Malaysia will generally focus on the country’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, on the Peninsular Malaysia, but can also include Subang Jaya, Klang and Johor Bahru amongst other places.

 

One of the most impressive metropolises in South East Asia, Kuala Lumpur is a city of contrasts. Huge skyscrapers dominate the skyline and tower into the sky, ancient temples and mosques sit next to modern shopping malls and street hawkers sell authentic Malaysian cuisine alongside traders punting pirate DVD’s and fake designer clothes. Eating, shopping and nightlife here offer a huge range of experiences. For those after a cheap city break, accommodation found in Kuala Lumpur’s sprawling China Town is the most affordable, with numerous cheap guesthouses and backpackers hostels. A shopping city break in Kuala Lumpur (or KL as it is affectionately known) has to include the rambling Central Market and the Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman; a rabbit-warren of alleys that was the city’s primary shopping area before the large malls moved into town. Other notable places of interest on a Kuala Lumpur city break include the Menara Kuala Lumpur (KL Tower), Islamic Arts Museum and Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC).

 

While Kuala Lumpur remains the most popular destination for short breaks in Malaysia, the affluent Subang Jaya on Peninsular Malaysia is another great place for a city break. One of the biggest att ractions here is the Subang Ria Park lake, where many of the city’s residents spend their leisure time. Subang Parade and Empire Subang are the main shopping areas. Accommodation can range from top 4 and 5 star hotels, such as Empire Hotel Subang and the Summit Hotel, to much cheaper guesthouses and hostels. Other smaller cities in Malaysia that make for a fantastic relaxing break in the Far East include Johor Bahru and Ampang, Selangor. Check for the latest city break deals using directline-citybreaks’ online search function.