Malaysia

Malaysia is often over-looked at the holiday planning stage, but we at OT believe it to be one of the most alluring destinations in Asia. Kuala Lumpur is no Bangkok, admittedly, but in Borneo and Langkawi, Malaysia boasts two of the continents very finest destinations. Add to that a vibrant and distinctive blend of Malay, Indian and Chinese cultures (and the resulting excellent cuisine) and this is a place well worth considering. Borneo has to be one of the most original destinations on the planet. This is an island where scientists have discovered 52 completely new species since 2005 alone. Original Travel consultants have travelled extensively throughout the Malay provinces of Sabah and Sarawak in the north of the island, visiting the best beaches, researching rainforest lodges in tribal regions, watching the incredible wildlife (including the endangered orang-utan) and diving some of Asia’s finest reefs. Mt Kinabalu is a trekkers’ paradise, and Borneo also has some of South-East Asia’s finest family hotels. Off the west coast of mainland Malaysia, Langkawi is a lush island just south of the Thai order and Phuket, and the luxurious hotels here – including longterm favourite the Datai and a new Four Seasons – are every bit as good as their Thai rivals.