The first couple of weeks of this 4-week trip to Malaysia involved island hopping from Phuket to Penang, stopping off in between in Langkawi. Despite their close proximity to each other, these are 3 very different types of island. Phuket is quite commercial, whereas Langkawi is much less-developed and laid-back. Penang is culturally the most diverse of the three. Something for everyone, then 🙂 .
Be sure to first check out our Plan, Maps and Budget for this 4-week round trip.
Climbing Gunung Raya, Malaysia
We were alone and a long way from any help climbing Gunung Raya, and as in all the best horror movies we had no mobile signal.
AirAsia Inflight Experience
It was raining but the crew anticipated this, providing a covered gangway & colorful red umbrellas. A nice final touch to our AirAsia inflight experience.
Island Hopping: Phuket to Penang
The first couple of weeks of this 4-week trip to Malaysia involved island hopping from Phuket to Penang, stopping off in between in Langkawi. Despite their close proximity to each other, these are 3 very different types of island.
Georgetown - A Cultural Smorgasbord
There's even a Tesco's on the outskirts of Georgetown, but don't get too excited. This is like no Tesco's we've ever visited in Europe, with mainly unrecognizable brands.
Penang Malaysia - Welcome to China
On a first visit to Penang, you could be forgiven for thinking yourself in China: This Malaysian island is home to a disproportionate percentage of ethnic Chinese.
🦟 Bite Away Insect Sting Relief
The Bite Away Insect Sting & Itch Relief pen uses targeted heat to provide fast & effective relief from the aftermath of insect bites.
Phuket Thailand
Many foreigners - especially Russians - treat Phuket Thailand as a 2nd home, making a periodic visa-run to Malaysia to extend their stay.
Kuala Lumpur Layover 🛬
Nestled just steps away from your arrival point in Kuala Lumpur International Airport, the Sama-Sama hotel offers weary travelers a haven of comfort and sophistication.
Langkawi Island Life 🦅
Langkawi’s archipelago comprises 99 thickly-forested islands dating back half a billion years.
Visa Runner Malaysia-Thailand
If you're planning an extended stay in Malaysia you have to renew the visa you're given on arrival. This is referred to as making a ‘visa run’.
Langkawi Accommodation Options
From €22 to €700 per night, your accommodation options are varied enough, but are the pricier venues good value for money?
Rebak Island, Malaysia ⛵
Rebak Island is a hidden gem offering a tranquil escape with its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, & rich biodiversity, for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
Malay Peninsula West Coast
If you're planning a multi-destination road trip, then booking an open-jaw flight can be a godsend.
Island Hopping from Phuket to Penang
Coming up soon… Penang Malaysia: Over-hyped, Over-priced, Over-rated .
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