How To Get To Malaysia

The main arrival point for your holiday to Malaysia will almost certainly be Kuala Lumpur – although other airports do exist including Pulau Pinang (Penang), Kota Kinabalu and Johor Bahru. However, Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia and so international flights will almost certainly be arriving here.

Depending on your starting point, air-fares can be quite different. For example, expect to pay about $600 or more to fly in from the United States (and something similar if you’re arriving from the United Kingdom).

The following airlines are some of the more popular ones that fly in to Kuala Lumpur from most international destinations:

- Virgin Atlantic

- Singapore Airlines

- Malaysia Airlines

- Air India

- British Airways

- Cathay Pacific

- Thai Airways

Getting Around Malaysia Once You’re There

Because Malaysia has two separate bodies of land separated by water, holiday makers to the country often fly between destinations. Domestic airfare is relatively cheap. For example, many holiday makers like to do a twin centre holiday which includes the capital of Kuala Lumpur. Langkawi Island is one of the most incredible beach destinations within Malaysia – a true paradise with soft sandy beaches and beautiful clear blue waters. Unsurprisingly it is one of the most popular holiday and vacation destinations within Malaysia. To do both Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi Island (a very popular holiday option), many tourists choose to take a one hour flight between Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi.

Getting Around Malaysia By Air

Remember, that many of the idyllic beach locations within Malaysia are located on islands that are separate from Kuala Lumpur (such as Langkawi). This means you will almost certainly have to fly if you’re booked in to one of these island locations. To fly within the country you have a few options. The most obvious is Malaysia Airlines (Malaysia’s national award-winning airlines, voted the world’s Best Cabin Crew 2007) allows you to get to and from practically every destination within Malaysia. Also an option to get around regionally by air are Air Asia, Berjaya Air and Pelangi Air. Flights costs and schedules vary depending on your final destination. But rest assured, the cost of flying within Malaysia is very affordable.

Getting Around Malaysia By Boat

While there are several boat services, it’s not an ideal way to get to and from various destinations. Services are sometimes lax and this can negatively affect your holiday.

Getting Around Malaysia By Train

While trains are generally comfortable, well managed and run, the rail network is not particularly extensive. But if you are in Kuala Lumpur, take the Light Rail Transit (LRT) train service (see below).

Getting Around Malaysia By Coach

Malaysia has a coach and bus system to be proud of. It’s an excellent and reliable mode of transport for both long and short journeys within Malaysia. Most coaches are also very well equipped with air-conditioning, comfortable seats and onboard television. This is the most economical method of getting around.

Getting Around Malaysia By Car

It’s actually fairly pleasant to drive in Malaysia. The country has an extensive (and growing) system of freeways, trunk and feeder roads. You can hire your own car for about $40 a day and the roads are very well preserved and clearly marked for navigation. Drivers drive on the left hand side of the road and the cars are right-hand driven. There are several car hire outlets located in airports and city centres. A more expensive option is to hire a car, but this can be very expensive and will set you back over $100 a day. Still, it’s a perfect option to get around comfortably and seeing exactly what you want – as long as you have the budget for it.

Taxi, Public Bus & Other

Above - Taxis Are A Good Way To Get Around Kuala Lumpur…Most Drivers Are Friendly & Helpful Too!

Taxis are fairly common-place in Kuala Lumpur and most other Malaysian cities. Be wary though, because even though they run on meters, it’s common for tourists to get swindled into paying more! Keep your wits about you and check in with your hotel what the rate should be for the destination you’re going to prior to setting foot into a taxi. Another transport option is to travel by public buses. They are available in all the major cities. If you are traveling within the capital city Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding cities such as Petaling Jaya, you can travel comfortably in the Light Rail Transit (LRT). This is exactly like London’s subway train system, except that it’s not underground, it’s overhead. It’s the cheapest and most convenient way to travel to and from selected locations within Kuala Lumpur.