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Where to go in February: the best places to visit February can be boiled down to one question: where is it hot? But that's only half the story. Yes, plenty of places in February mean sunshine, warm seas, and an escape from the British winter. But it can also be an extraordinary month for wildlife, festivals, food, hiking, cultural experiences and landscapes that look completely different at other times of year. In Tanzania, February means wildebeest calves arriving on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti. In India, Rajasthan is alive with festivals and the weather is ideal for exploring. In the Galápagos, warm seas and nesting wildlife make getting into the water particularly exciting. And in Chile, long summer days open up some of the world's most spectacular landscapes, though it's also one of its busiest periods. So rather than asking simply “Where is it hot in February?”, we asked our destination experts: What is actually worth travelling for in February? Here are the places they'd be talking to you about. These are our top picks on where to go in February Tanzania: February is all about the babies Best for: wildlife, safari and seeing the Great Migration differently If your idea of an unforgettable February involves thousands of wildebeest calves taking their first tentative steps across the Serengeti, Tanzania deserves serious consideration. February is calving season in the southern Serengeti , when huge herds gather across the short-grass plains and thousands of calves are born over a concentrated period. And where there are young animals, predators follow. The landscape is green following the earlier rains, the weather is warm, showers are possible, and game drives can be wonderfully dramatic from first light through to dusk. Our Tanzania expert Cat often reminds clients: Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => The migration is year-round; it’s about being in the right place. [name] => Catherine Williams [location] => HA Destination Manager, Tanzania. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ The migration is year-round; it’s about being in the right place. Catherine Williams HA Destination Manager, Tanzania. ” February brilliantly illustrates exactly what she means. This isn’t really about seeing one big event and moving on. It’s more about sitting quietly in the jeep, taking your time, and watching life on the plains go on around you. You might spot newborn animals finding their feet, predators on the lookout, or herds moving across the grasslands. There can also be fewer visitors here than during the famous river-crossing months later in the year, making the experience feel particularly focused on the wildlife itself. Cat’s advice: if the wildlife is the reason you're going to Tanzania, don't build your itinerary around the dates you've seen on a migration calendar. Build it around where the animals are likely to be; in this case, that's where specialist knowledge really matters, letting you time and plan perfectly. A herd of wildebeests taken by Alex, Tanzania. Uganda: gorillas, chimpanzees and a quieter February Best for: gorilla trekking, chimpanzees and wildlife Uganda is another fascinating option for February, particularly if your idea of a holiday involves getting properly into the wilderness. February falls within Uganda's short dry season, making conditions more comfortable for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking as well as other wildlife experiences. It is also before the main June peak, so February can offer a quieter experience. And this is where Uganda differs from a traditional beach-led February escape. You're not travelling simply for the weather. You're travelling for the thrill of spending time in the forest, searching for wild mountain gorillas or chimpanzees. You can’t do that just anywhere. Gorilla trekking in Uganda. Sri Lanka: one country, several completely different holidays Best for: beaches, wildlife, tea country, culture and food February is one of our Sri Lanka experts' favourite months for designing trips because so much of the country can work beautifully at the same time. On the south and west coasts, expect long sunny days, calm seas and temperatures in the high-20s to low-30s°C. Galle, Bentota and Mirissa are all well placed for beach time. But don't just stop there, head inland for a completely different side of Sri Lanka. The Hill Country is cooler and clearer, making February a lovely time for the famous train journey through the tea hills between Kandy and Ella, walks through tea estates and long views across the mountains without the mist and heavy rain that can affect other seasons. Further north, the Cultural Triangle brings ancient temples, rock fortresses and archaeological sites into the mix, while national parks in the south and centre offer opportunities for elephant and leopard sightings. So you can genuinely build a February trip around culture → tea country → wildlife → beach, without constantly fighting the weather. Dawn's favourite Sri Lanka experiences: Our Sri Lanka expert Dawn has visited Gal Oya many times and is particularly impressed by experiences that connect travellers with the people and landscape. One is a cultural experience with the local Veddah community. It starts with a ceremony, followed by a walk with members of the Veddah community, visiting their cultural centre and homes before walking through plantations and learning about the plants and their traditional healing properties. Her Gal Oya boat safari was another standout. She saw 15 elephants, including one swimming elephant, along with abundant birdlife. Dawn’s tip? Go in the afternoon. The later departure lets you finish the experience on an island at sunset, with tea and a homemade treat. That is the kind of February Sri Lanka experience we love: not just “sunny beach”, but a whole collection of landscapes and encounters that happen to work beautifully in the same month. A quick note on February 2027. February is a wonderful time to experience Sri Lanka, but February 2027 is already reaching capacity in some of the places we’d recommend. If you’re set on travelling in February, we’d be very happy to start planning ahead for February 2028 instead. Otherwise, March onwards is a great alternative and gives you more flexibility for availability and itinerary planning. HA's specialist Dawn on the Gal Oya boat safari. Cambodia: temples, tropical islands and a little more heat Best for: history, food, family adventures and beaches February is firmly in Cambodia's dry, high season, and the country is beginning to warm up. Our specialist Fenton recently returned to Cambodia and this time travelled around the country with his wife and two young children, and his biggest piece of advice is not to think of Cambodia as somewhere you simply tag onto a Thailand or Vietnam holiday. He has seen the famous temples of Angkor Wat, travelled through Battambang, Kampot, Kep and Kampong Chhnang, spent time in Phnom Penh and relaxed on Koh Rong. Cambodia's variety is the best part! Fenton's favourite Cambodia itinerary: In Siem Reap, Fenton's family met the Hero Rats of APOPO, trained to detect landmines, and visited elephants in the countryside around Kulen Mountain. Importantly, the elephant experience involved walking alongside the animals, preparing and feeding them, not riding them. Then there were Cambodia's beaches. Fenton describes The Royal Sands on Koh Rong as: Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => A genuine paradise: white sand, turquoise water and exceptional service. It's not the cheapest option on the island, but it delivered a level of detail and service that made it worth the spend. [name] => Fenton [location] => HA Destination Manager, Cambodia. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ A genuine paradise: white sand, turquoise water and exceptional service. It's not the cheapest option on the island, but it delivered a level of detail and service that made it worth the spend. Fenton HA Destination Manager, Cambodia. ” And Cambodia's food deserves more attention than it gets. Fenton's wife loved the Fish Amok, while his own favourite was Beef Lok Lak with pepper and citrus sauce. Purposeful experiences in Cambodia: One of the most interesting places Fenton visited was Farmhouse by Smiling Gecko , which combines a luxury countryside stay with a social enterprise. Guests can relax by the pool or enjoy a spa treatment, but can also take excursions that offer insight into the lives of local communities. Some of what you see isn't easy. Fenton specifically noted the reality of garment factories and the difficult circumstances some communities face. But that's also why he felt the experience mattered: money spent there feeds back into the community, while staff receive training and employment opportunities. February is a good time to visit Cambodia, but we'd suggest going beyond Angkor Wat. Give yourself enough time to discover the people, food, countryside and coast that make the country more than a temple stopover. HA's specialist, Fenton, with his daughter visiting the elephants at the bottom of Kulen Mountain. Chile: long summer days from the Atacama to Patagonia Best for: hiking, landscapes, wine, wildlife and adventure February is high summer in Chile , and that means long days and excellent access to the country's extraordinary range of landscapes. In Patagonia, trails are open, boat trips are running, and the days are long enough to make the most of Torres del Paine and the glacier-lined landscapes. Further north, the Atacama is dry and dramatic, with hot days, cool nights and famously clear skies. And around Santiago and the central wine valleys, vineyards are green, and summer is in full swing. There is a catch: February is busy. It's peak holiday season for Chileans too, and some of the country's headline destinations can be crowded. Easter Island is particularly busy around its festival period. So February works particularly well for travellers who want to make the most of the weather and don't mind sharing some of the country's most famous places. Louise's favourite part Our Chile expert Louise travelled the length of the country, self-drove through the Lakes District, explored Chiloé, travelled into Patagonia and finished in the Atacama. One of her most memorable wildlife encounters was a puma in southern Patagonia. At Estancia Cerro Guido, Louise joined the conservation team to track pumas and learn about their work to reduce conflict between wildlife and livestock. After hiking through prickly scrub for a couple of hours, they spotted a female puma just 50–60 metres away. They stayed quietly for a while before leaving her to rest. It's a lovely example of the difference between seeing wildlife and actually understanding the conservation work behind it. As one of our wildlife champions at HA, this is so important to Louise, and these moments hold a very special place in her heart. Don't overlook Puerto Natales Louise also thinks travellers shouldn't treat Puerto Natales as simply a gateway to Torres del Paine. There are quieter experiences around the town, including opportunities to ride with a local gaucho family. And then there's Chiloé Island, which Louise describes as an amazing revelation: easy to reach by car ferry, with colourful villages and beautiful wooden churches along the UNESCO-listed Circuito de Iglesias. One thing to know about February Louise's personal preference is actually the shoulder seasons of October–November or March–April, when you can still get excellent conditions while generally avoiding the busiest period. But if February is your travel window, Chile is at its best; just book early and plan carefully. Taken by HA's Gabs of the Guanaco Crossing in Patagonia. Ecuador & the Galápagos: pack your swimmers! Best for: wildlife, snorkelling, marine life and adventure For February, we'd focus particularly on the Galápagos Islands. This is the warm season, with sea temperatures around 25–27°C, generally calmer conditions and excellent opportunities for snorkelling. The islands are also beautifully green at this time of year, while wildlife activity is fascinating: green turtles are nesting, marine iguanas are breeding, and bird activity is high. There can be short, warm afternoon showers, but they generally don't stop you from getting out and exploring. And if you're combining the Galápagos with mainland Ecuador, there is plenty of scope to build in a very different cultural and landscape experience. Louise's Ecuador tip: don't overlook Quito One property that always stands out on Louise’s Ecuador research trips is Illa Experience in Quito's historic centre. It is exactly the sort of small property that benefits from being experienced in person. The hotel has three levels themed around Ecuador's colonial, republican and contemporary history, with work by Ecuadorian artists throughout. There's even a woodcarver in the entrance hall who guests can meet and try their hand at the craft. Louise also met chef Juan Carlos at the hotel's restaurant, Inés. He trained at El Bulli and served her an excellent Ecuadorian ceviche. There are also local coffee tastings, chocolate experiences and ice-cream making among more than 60 experiences available. Lou’s recommendation: If you're going all the way to Ecuador, don't treat Quito as somewhere to sleep between flights. Give it enough time to experience the city. Taken by HA's Lou at Illa Experience, Quito. Malaysia: February is for food, culture and the west coast February is a particularly interesting time to visit Malaysia’s west coast, with Kuala Lumpur and Penang offering a brilliant mix of food, culture and city life before heading into the rainforest or out to the coast. But one February date is worth knowing: Chinese New Year falls on 6 February, and Ian points out that it can bring larger crowds to the cities. That isn’t necessarily a reason to avoid travelling; quite the opposite if you want to experience Malaysia at its most lively and culturally immersive. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => If you want to really immerse yourself in the culture, it is a great time to experience the local life, but for a less-crowded vibe, travelling after this will work perfectly. [name] => Ian Lowbridge [location] => HA Destination Manager, Malaysia. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ If you want to really immerse yourself in the culture, it is a great time to experience the local life, but for a less-crowded vibe, travelling after this will work perfectly. Ian Lowbridge HA Destination Manager, Malaysia. ” If you’d prefer to explore without the additional crowds, Ian recommends travelling after Chinese New Year. It’s a useful distinction when planning a February trip: you can either deliberately time your visit around the celebrations and experience the atmosphere, or travel afterwards for a quieter feel. Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur Our Malaysia expert Ian spent time exploring rainforests, cities, food and the country's less obvious corners. Ian's food recommendations are almost enough to plan a trip around. At Jalan Alor, the street is quiet during the day but transforms at night. It's loud, colourful, chaotic and full of smells: satay, noodles, grilled dishes and all sorts of things you may not immediately recognise. Ian recommends walking through at lunchtime first if you're nervous about the experience. It gives you a chance to get your bearings before returning in the evening when the street really comes alive. And if a full-on hawker market feels intimidating, Lot 10 in Kuala Lumpur is his gentler introduction: similar street-food experience, but air-conditioned and easier to navigate. His top tip is simply to get stuck in. Food centres can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand how they work, they open up an enormous part of Malaysian culture. Rainforest and a some sighs of relief: Ian has visited different kinds of rainforest areas and finds that each offered something different. Taman Negara Rompin, for example, is a good alternative to the more established rainforest destinations. Think lodge-style accommodation, waterfall walks, boat trips and natural pools rather than a polished five-star resort. He even spotted a flying squirrel on a night walk. For a different end to the trip, Pangkor Laut works beautifully as a few days of relaxation. You reach it by a short boat transfer from the mainland, and it has beachfront restaurants, a pool, and spacious accommodation. Ian's favourite bit? On Friday evenings, the resort puts on a Malaysian street-food-style dinner, with stalls serving curries, roti, fruit and satay. HA's specialist, Ian, in Taman Negara Rompin. Egypt: cooler days for the world's oldest stories Best for: ancient history, food, the Nile and winter sunshine Egypt is another strong February destination because the cooler months are ideal for exploring its archaeological sites without the intense summer heat. Our Egypt expert, Catherine Williams, likes to travel from Cairo down the Nile to Aswan and Luxor, then continue to Hurghada and Alexandria. She’s explored the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx, and visited the Grand Egyptian Museum, Coptic and Islamic Cairo, and the lesser-visited pyramids at Saqqara. Then comes the Nile cruise, visiting Philae, Edfu, Kom Ombo and the temples of Luxor. She’s even taken a hot-air balloon over the West Bank. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => That’s what I find so fascinating about Egypt. If you look past the famous sights, there’s a lot more to discover. The country has so many layers once you start exploring beyond the obvious [name] => Catherine Williams [location] => HA Destination Manager, Egypt. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ That’s what I find so fascinating about Egypt. If you look past the famous sights, there’s a lot more to discover. The country has so many layers once you start exploring beyond the obvious Catherine Williams HA Destination Manager, Egypt. ” Cat’s favourite Cairo experience One of her favourite experiences was walking along El Moez Street in historic Cairo. Instead of simply visiting a monument, she found herself walking among locals, passing bazaars and handicraft shops and watching artisans creating their work. These experiences add context to the big-ticket sights. And Cat's favourite meal wasn't particularly elaborate either. In Alexandria, she ate Gambari Maklee, crispy fried shrimp served with pita and tahini. She loved the seafood so much that she said she'd return to Alexandria for it alone. The guide matters Cat's most memorable interaction was with our trusty Cairo guide, Abeer, whose knowledge covered both ancient and modern Egypt. She is a true HA favourite, winning over not just Cat but also our Egypt specialist Ian. Both Cat and Ian also recommend specialised tours, including the Women of Egyptian Food and Shopping experience, which combines Egyptian food with insight into women's roles and changing opportunities within the country. HA's specialist, Cat, in the hot-air balloon over the West Bank. India: festival season in full swing Best for: culture, festivals, wildlife, food and Rajasthan February is high season in India, and for good reason. Across much of the north, the weather is dry and comfortable for sightseeing, while southern India offers warm, lower-humidity conditions. And February brings another reason to travel: festival season. Depending on your itinerary and dates, you may be able to experience events such as the World Sacred Spirit Festival in Jodhpur, the Nagaur Cattle Fair, and the Jaisalmer Desert Festival. Our India expert Clare Burkey has travelled extensively through Rajasthan and Central India, visiting Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur and Panna National Park. But what stays with her isn’t the monuments. It’s always been the people. She’s spent time with environmentalists, wildlife filmmakers, noble families and even a former street child who became a university student and guide. Clare's Rajasthan: go beyond the obvious One of Clare's favourite discoveries was Ahichatragarh Fort in Nagaur. Rajasthan is hardly short of forts, but Clare was struck by the restoration of this fourth-century site. The gardens and buildings contain 90 functioning fountains, restored as part of the site's conservation work, and the fort hosts the annual World Sacred Spirit Festival. She also loved Sunder Rang, a craft centre in Chandelao where local women create traditional Rajasthani crafts using, in part, waste fabric from city manufacturers. The women work together in a social environment, using techniques including Kantha embroidery, with a proportion of profits going directly to them. The Monkey Train Then there's Clare's wonderfully eccentric recommendation: the Monkey Train. This narrow-gauge railway travels through the Aravalli hills between Marwar and Kamlighat. Clare describes the hour-or-so-long journey as: Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => An immersive glimpse of old India, travelling through forests, gorges and bridges [name] => Clare Burkey [location] => HA Destination Manager, India. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ An immersive glimpse of old India, travelling through forests, gorges and bridges Clare Burkey HA Destination Manager, India. ” And yes, there really are monkeys waiting at the station. The driver apparently sounds the horn before arriving, and troops of monkeys gather in anticipation. Don't feed them, but do take your camera. Clare's biggest India lesson: Perhaps Clare's most useful advice is: “Less is more.” India is enormous. Trying to squeeze in everything can mean spending much of your holiday in the back of a car. Clare recommends allowing at least two nights in each location where possible, building in downtime and accepting that you may need to save something for your next trip. We couldn't agree more. HA's specialist, Clare, with her family in Rajasthan. South Africa: sunshine, safari and the Cape in February February is a brilliant month for exploring South Africa’s Western and Eastern Cape, with warm, sunny days that make it perfect for combining Cape Town, the Garden Route and a malaria-free safari. For families especially, it’s wonderfully easy to reach from the UK. HA’s South Africa specialist, Kirsty, recently travelled to South Africa with her family and found that the direct overnight flight and little time difference made it possible to leave once school finished and arrive in South Africa the following morning. For a family trip, that makes a big difference, easing some of the planning struggles. Kirsty’s half-term trip showed how well the Cape works as a double-destination holiday, when you can properly make the most of the outdoors: from hiking Lion’s Head and exploring the Cape Peninsula to kayaking, and spending time on the coast around Hermanus. Alternatively, Cat, our South Africa expert, enjoys the other side of Cape Town. Her Natural Wanders walk is a gentler alternative to Lion’s Head, taking around 5km from Signal Hill through the reserve towards Camps Bay, while her Cape Peninsula recommendations include quieter corners such as Olifantsbos, Kalk Bay and Muizenberg. And February isn't just about the coast, of course! This is South Africa, and the Eastern Cape offers the chance to add a malaria-free safari, making the country particularly appealing if you want wildlife without adding a separate tropical-health consideration to a family trip. What makes a South Africa holiday with HA different is the opportunity to go beyond the headline sights, too. The HA team has long recommended experiences with Uthando, which uses tourism to support community-led projects in Cape Town’s townships. For one HA family, our founder, Andy, Rachel, and their daughters- the highlight was connecting with local communities through Uthando and listening to their stories. These stories and conversations brought the country’s history to life and became the most unforgettable part of their holiday, proving that the richest South African holidays are about truly understanding where it is you’re visiting, through, as always, connection. Kirsty's February tip Combine Cape Town and the Western Cape with the Garden Route and a malaria-free safari in the Eastern Cape, rather than trying to cover the whole country. You'll get sunshine, wildlife, scenery and plenty of time to actually enjoy each place. Taken by HA's specialist, Kirsty, with her family in South Africa during the UK's half-term. So, where should you go in February? If you're looking for somewhere warm, you have plenty of options. But February is much more interesting when you start with what you actually want to experience. Would you like to… Watch thousands of wildebeest calves being born? Tanzania . Meet the gorillas and chimpanzees? Uganda . Soak up beaches and tea country, wildlife and culture? Sri Lanka . Visit ancient temples, then white-sand beaches? Cambodia . Experience huge landscapes and long summer days? Chile . Snorkel with wildlife in warm seas? The Galápagos . Enjoy food, rainforest and culture in one trip? Malaysia . Learn ancient history with the winter heat dialled down? Egypt . Celebrate festivals, forts and tiger country? India . Combine city, coast, wine and safari? South Africa. If you find yourself wondering, “Where should I travel in February?” you’re in for a delightful dilemma. February offers some destinations at their best, so the hardest part is often narrowing it down to just one place. That's where our experts come in. They've walked the trails, sat around the campfires, eaten the street food, met the guides, stayed in the hotels, and, crucially, know their countries inside and out, knowing exactly what you’ll like and won't like; they really are that good! Chat with our experts today about what you're thinking for your February getaway, and then they can help you design a unique holiday around just how you like to travel. Holidays at their best this February Thinking about jetting off this February? Chat with one of our experts today to start planning your next getaway this February. ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS

A vibrant, colourful country full of hidden surprises, Malaysia is a multicultural society with mile upon mile of jungle and an array of delicious cuisines. There really is something for everyone here, and with a delightful mix of dense forests, historic towns and modern cities, there’s certainly plenty to do. Uncover our top  Malaysia holiday destinations and escape to this beautiful island for a trip you’ll never forget. Perhentian Islands Located 21km off the NorthEastern coast of Terengganu, you’ll find the Perhentian Islands – home to white sandy beaches, turquoise seas and gently swaying palms. The shores are dotted with local cafes and food stalls, all selling fresh-from-the-boat seafood and delicious Malaysian specialities – you certainly won’t go hungry here! Often much cleaner than tourist-filled beaches, there’s no better place to sit back and relax than this sunny paradise. The islands are made up of Pulau Perhentian Besar (The Big Island) and Pulau Perhentian Kecil (The Small Island). They both have very different personalities: Kecil attracts more travellers as it has cheaper accommodation and livelier nightlife, while Besar is a little more expensive and caters to families. If you aren’t sure which one to choose, don’t worry – boat taxis can whizz you between the sandy shores day and night. With a lack of international hotels, you can expect to stay in small and quirky accommodation here where you’ll be able to wake up and walk straight out onto the beach. During the day, watch out for flying foxes, long-tailed macaques and resident monitor lizards in the rocky virgin jungle. Or, if you’re more of an adventurer, why not get your scuba diving PADI certification? These islands are one of the best (and cheapest) places in the world to get one. With more than 20 different dive sites around the islands, you’ll get the opportunity to swim alongside turtles, sharks, rays and tropical fish. This underwater kingdom also welcomes snorkellers – and our Malaysian travel expert describes the snorkelling here as “absolutely world class!”. Forest reserve of Ulu Muda The Northwestern Peninsular of Malaysia covers 160,000 hectares of land and is home to the Ulu Muda reserve . Rarely visited by tourists, getting here is no simple task – but trust us, it’s worth it! You first have to travel by road, before a two-hour sampan boat ride to the centre of the forest where you’ll get the opportunity to see Asian Elephants and help the team set up cameras to capture the amazing creatures for an experience unlike anywhere else. Look out for birds and reptiles, as well as tapir and clouded leopards – and if you’re really lucky, you may see a tiger or two, and perhaps even a sun bear. The reserve is home to a massive 306 species of bird including all 10 Malaysian hornbills. For a chance to see the magnificent birdlife, visit in the months of May through to September. During this time, the area experiences the lowest water levels of the year, making them easier to spot. It’s not just about birdlife here, though: the forest of Ulu Muda is also a secret haven of jungle trails, rivers, limestone hills, caves, salt licks, and wildlife, so if you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, it’s a great option to put on your itinerary. Accommodation here is basic – you’re literally right in the middle of a jungle! – but the experience is unmissable, even if just for a night or two. Rural Penang The city centre of Penang, named the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, is one of the most visited Malaysia holiday destinations . It gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008 and has boutique hotels galore, charming Chinese temples and clan houses, as well as graffiti-lined streets and hipster cafes. We’d definitely recommend a visit to Penang if you like to soak up history-rich culture. However, to discover the lesser-known areas, you could take a bike ride through rural Penang . Cycle through a labyrinth of minor roads and country pathways, passing by mangroves, goat herds, wooden villages and farms. Along the way, you’ll see the colourful sights and smells of the local villages and witness the fascinating life of locals as you venture through the bountiful green environment. Exploring the town on a bike has all the advantages of going on foot, except you get to see so much more as you cover a wider area. Plus, the cooling breeze is a nice relief! Cameron Highlands Tea Plantations After the hustle and bustle of Penang, escape the crowds and enjoy the quiet scenes of the Cameron Highlands Tea Plantations. These highlands make 60% of all the tea for Malaysia and cover 712km² of land. Resembling the rice paddy fields in SE Asia, the rolling hills are filled with a variety of tea plants, making for pretty amazing photographs. There are two main plantations: BOH and the lesser-known Cameron Valley Tea. Free to enter, here you can spend one or two hours strolling around the grounds, finishing at the waterfall at the bottom of fields. To experience the panoramic views away from other travellers, why not enjoy an exclusive picnic with a private tasting session at BOH? You’ll be able to sit back and enjoy the views while eating a traditional English picnic.   Ipoh Ipoh is slowly becoming a sought-after destination for travellers in the know. A gateway to the Cameron Highlands, this city is up-and-coming thanks to the restoration of old shophouses into hip cafes, new boutique hotels and museums full of history. Also one of south-east Asia’s hidden foodie hot spots, we recommend taking some time to explore the Old Town’s quirky cafes or heading to Ipoh Soho for a wacky robotic dining experience. Ipoh is surrounded by limestone hulks and is also home to British colonial architecture including railway stations, the town hall and old world schools, so there’s plenty to explore here. A true hidden gem, Ipoh is sure to become one of the top Malaysia holiday destinations in years to come. We recommend staying in Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat hotel – nestled in a valley outside the city, it’s cradled by 260 million-year-old towering Paleozoic limestone hills, verdant rainforest, rejuvenating geothermal hot springs, natural caves and cascading waterfalls. A real luxury! Malacca The historic centre of Malacca was crowned a UNESCO site in 2008 and it’s easy to see why: with colourful colonial shophouses, historic landmarks and a variety of religious buildings, this location is an idyllic Malaysian town and well worth a visit for those who want to experience some lesser-travelled areas. Once a quaint fishing village in the 14th century, Malacca was a renowned port, attracting traders from across the East. It’s seen centuries of conflict and change – the Portuguese came to conquer it in 1509, the Dutch invaded in 1641, and finally the British assumed control in 1824. Now a peaceful port, Malacca has finally seen its revival and is a highlight for those who visit. It has many laid back cafes and charming art galleries, as well as relaxing cruises on the river that flows through. If you’re planning to stay for a couple of days, we’d recommend going to the Jonker Walk Night Market, where you can stroll through the trinket sellers under the night sky. During the day, keep your eyes peeled and cameras to hand for Malacca’s resident monitor lizards. Harmless to visitors, they enjoy a spot of sunbathing on the riverbanks, or at times around town. With so much personality, Malacca provides the perfect getaway from Malaysia’s busy cities. Time to start planning With high temperatures and humidity all year, Malaysia has a tropical climate that’s perfect for year-round travel. However, the best time to visit most of the region is from March to October – so it’s time to start planning your next adventure to these top Malaysia holiday destinations ! Get in touch with one of our travel experts to get started with an itinerary – we specialise in bespoke travel to ensure you get the very best out of your time away.            

A few months back, our expert Ian packed his bags and headed back to one of his favourite parts of the world. He started in Singapore, then travelled through three very different Malaysian rainforests, on to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Belum and finally Pangkor Laut. The plan wasn’t just to see it all again. It was to revisit the places he already loves, try new stays and experiences, and properly sense-check everything we recommend, making sure we're completely up to date on the very best options for your holidays. What follows is his honest take. Where he’d stay. What he’d eat again in a heartbeat. What caught him off guard. And the small, on-the-ground details that help us shape a Malaysia holiday that really fits. Ian in Teman Negara, Malaysia My Singapore & Malaysia itinerary Starting with a few days in Singapore, I spent two nights in Downtown and one night in Sentosa. From here, I travelled west to the Desaru Coast for a night at the beach. Next, I headed into central Malaysia, to Taman Negara Rompin for the first of three rainforest visits and then continued on for a return visit to Kuala Lumpur. Then I travelled on into Taman Negara National Park, considered to be one of the oldest in the world, followed by a night in Ipoh and then two nights in Penang. To finish my trip, I spent two nights in the third and final rainforest, Belum and then a final rest in Pangkor Laut. The main aims of the trip were to experience the rainforest, explore the culture, and relax. Exploring three rainforest areas, seeing what experiences were available. Exploring towns and cities at my own pace, as our clients would. Searching out some hidden gems, or top tips which we can pass on! Ian infront of the Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur Lesser-visited Malaysia: Desaru Coast, Rompin and Sentosa Surprises The Desaru Coast The Desaru Coast on Malaysia's east coast is idyllic. With only a few hotels along that stretch, it's the perfect place to relax after Singapore or even Taman Negara Rompin. The Ananatara hotel specifically is amazing; beachfront hotel with two swimming pools, a real ‘Malaysian’ feel to the hotel – you know you’re in Malaysia and not just another big hotel. The amenities are fantastic, and they have a stunning fine-dining restaurant where you can sample local seafood caught that day! Taman Negara Rompin Taman Negara Rompin is a great alternative to Taman Negara or Belum Rainforest. With lovely lodge-style rooms (not quite the same as a 5* hotel but a real rainforest feel). There are many activities you can do, but the best would be a morning trek to a waterfall, followed by an afternoon boat ride and a walk to a natural pool you can swim in! Of course, you will get some rain in the rainforest, but it really adds to the experience. It's not somewhere you are going to see wildlife (although I did see a flying squirrel on the night walk), but you get the full experience of staying in a Malaysian rainforest – humidity and all! Sentosa Sentosa Island was a really nice surprise; it’s not somewhere I had been before. About a 15-minute drive from Downtown Singapore, it is the perfect family-friendly location to base while still having access to the city's tourist sites. The hotels are set up with plenty of amenities; restaurants, pools, etc., but you are also walkable to the beach. Along the beach, there are many payable excursions to do, such as the Skyline Luge, Bungee Jump, Ziplines, etc. In addition, they offer free visits to the Skywalk and Fort Siloso. Ian soaking up the sun on Sentosa Island, Singapore What to eat in Singapore and Malaysia The Desaru Coast Ooofff the food, I ate like a king for three weeks; honestly, my favourite thing about going back to Singapore & Malaysia is the food. I genuinely cannot pinpoint my favourite meal because all of them were so good. A few highlights below: Maxwells, Singapore Maxwells is the most famous hawker market in Singapore, it really does live up to the hype. There's so much choice in terms of food and drink, and it is just so amazing. It can be slightly overwhelming when you first walk in, but soon you get the idea. For seating, it’s a share-a-table setup, so you just find a seat where you can; everyone is so friendly! I befriended two gentlemen who were third-generation Singaporeans. They live locally and visit Maxwells weekly, so if it is good enough for the locals, it’s good enough for me! Lot 10, Kuala Lumpur Lot 10, underneath the Pavilion Shopping Centre in KL. I would describe this as street food for beginners. It is much less noisy and busy than the actual street food markets, but the setup is very similar, and it is incredibly well-priced, plus it has air-con. Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur Jalan Alor is a must-try. Street food, incredible smells, amazingly busy and chaotic, such a local, Malaysian experience. Take 60 MYR (less than £12), and you will leave feeling more than full! Bottega, Penang My Achilles heel is Bottega in Penang, a lovely little family-run Italian restaurant for when you are craving that Western taste of food. Freshly cooked pizza and cold tiramisu, it’s the perfect break from noodles & rice (just for one meal). So good, I have visited in 2023 and 2025! Ian hiking in Teman Negara National Park Where to Stay in Malaysia: My favourite hotels and resorts Banjaran Hotsprings, Ipoh Midway between Kuala Lumpur and Penang, just outside the colonial town of Ipoh, Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is all about switching off properly. Set among ancient limestone hills and geothermal springs, the setting alone does half the work for you. There’s a pool, spa, fitness suite and restaurant as you’d expect – but it’s the extras that make it stand out. Dinner in a cave at Jeff’s Cellar, cocktails with a view at On the Rocks, and long soaks in the 40°c geothermal pools while the steam rises around you. If you’re feeling brave, there are ice baths too. It’s peaceful, a little indulgent, and feels like a genuine retreat. It wouldn't be the right fit for every itinerary, but when it works, it’s a very good call. Eastern & Oriental, Penang What a gorgeous hotel. I would recommend treating yourself to the Deluxe Suite, as this comes with a view of the swimming pool and Straits of Malacca. The room itself is spacious, comfortable and has a separate lounge space. As well as this, they offer happy hour between 6pm & 7pm daily, where you can get some free drinks and canapes before you head out into Georgetown for dinner. Pangkor Laut Resort If you’re after a peaceful island-style finale without flying on to Langkawi, Pangkor Laut Resort is spot on. Around three hours by road from Kuala Lumpur or Penang to the jetty, then a short boat ride across, and you’ll find yourself properly away from it all. There are beachfront restaurants, a generous pool and spacious rooms clearly designed with slowing down in mind. And if you’re there on a Friday night, don’t miss the Malaysian street-food dinner. Stalls serving curries, roti, satay and fresh fruit, with the scent of it all drifting through the warm evening air. It’s a relaxed, flavour-full, and brilliant way to end a trip. Ian lapping up the luxury at Pangkor Laut Resort ... and having an awful time at Banjaran Hotsprings, Ipoh My most authentic travel moments Back to Maxwells, where I befriended two gentlemen who were third-generation Singaporeans. They were telling me about their families and how they love living in Singapore – they were fans of tourists and enjoyed what tourists bring to the city! My driver. The best surprise was him turning up on Day one and us both realising he was my driver back on my Fam Trip in 2023. It was lovely to catch up and be able to just settle back into conversation like it hadn’t been two years! My favourite experience in Malaysia (and why it stuck with me) It’s hard to pinpoint my favourite experience, because I honestly had the best time on this trip. I think just the fact that I get to do this for work, revisiting some of my favourite places on the planet and then inspiring others to travel to these places and seeing how much they love it. It doesn't get better than that. There’s nothing better than arriving somewhere where you've been before, and it feels like no time has passed at all. Stepping back in KL, walking the streets of Georgetown with my headphones in, pretending I’m a local because I know the way – it’s just the best feeling. What I learned from visiting three Malaysian rainforests This trip had a lot of rainforest focus, so it was really good to visit three different rainforests and experience what each of them had to offer. Taking part in different activities and seeing how each resort was set up and how it worked was really interesting. I also learned that although it’s great to see as much as possible, it’s just as important to slow down and really experience what you are seeing. Spending the extra night in places so that you can really delve into the back streets or visit another hawker centre (always worth it). Nowadays, we’re always so quick to just jump to the next place, whereas this time, I really enjoyed every second of each place I visited. Ian cruising through the waterways in Teman Negara National Park What you absolutely can’t miss on a Malaysia holiday Malaysia has so much to offer, and the highlights would differ from person to person. So, for me it’s all about that first chat to find out what you want from your trip, so we can work out where you can't miss from there. Between cities, towns, beaches, rainforest, UNESCO sites, there is the perfect Malaysia trip out there for everyone, so we just need to create the perfect one so that they don’t miss what THEY shouldn’t miss. The best time to visit Malaysia? All year round. That’s the joy of Malaysia, there’s always somewhere to visit at all times. My top travel tip for Singapore & Malaysia Head to a food centre/hawker market and be prepared to enjoy them to the maximum. It can be overwhelming at first, but once you get used to it, it will really open your eyes culinarily, and some of the food is out of this world (and cheap!) I can talk you through it!