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 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 costly to get here. For example, expect to pay at least $600 to fly in from the United States (and at least 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 segregated by water, holiday makers to the country often need to fly between destinations. For example, many holiday makers prefer to do a twin centre holiday which includes the capital of Kuala Lumpur. For example, Langkawi 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 (which many holiday makers do), you would need 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 to 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 obvious, Malaysia Airlines 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 Langi Air. Flights vary depending on your final destination.

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 impact negatively on your holiday.

Getting Around Malaysia By Train

While trains are generally comfortable, well managed and run, the rail network is not particularly extensive.

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. They are also fairly comfortable and the most economically friendly method of getting around.

Getting Around Malaysia By Car

It’s actually fairly pleasant to drive in Malaysia. You can hire your own car for about $40 a day and the roads are fairly well preserved and clearly marked for navigation. Drivers drive on the left hand side of the road – 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 Are Friendly & Helpful Too!

Taxi’s are fairly common-place in Kuala Lumpur and most other Malaysian cities. Be wary though, because even though they run on metres, 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 stepping foot in a taxi. Public buses are also available in many major cities and in some cities bicycle rickshaws are still used.