Must-see Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and the Strait of Malacca

Scheduled - Chinatown’s speakeasies. Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown is perfectly aware of the aura of mystery that surrounds it. And it plays along with it. Of course, opium dens are a thing of the past, but the idea of a back door still holds great appeal. That's why the trendy new bars are tucked away at the end of narrow lanes. To be in the spotlight these days, you no longer need to be on the main street. With your private guide, you set out to explore some of these spots where knowing your way around really matters. And it’s a real pleasure to find one you like, because here, they truly understand what a cocktail should be. Next, the atmosphere shifts in the Malay district of Kampung Baru. With its old wooden houses, coconut trees and banana trees, it"s a rather extravagant and very charming rural enclave. Walk around here after afternoon tea, and marvel at the shifting scales of a city that delights in startling contrasts at every turn.

Kuala Lumpur blend. Like all major cities? Maybe, but with a bit more heart. In any case, walking around, you go from one surprise to the next. It comes down to the entanglements of history and those of globalisation. On top of that, we’re in luck: the Malaysian national dish is sold (and eaten) on the street. It’s nasi lemak (coconut milk rice, belachan, hard-boiled egg and small fried items). Street food is a true expression of the fusion identity of the local people. The dishes are of Chinese (char kuey teow, stir-fried noodles, bak kut teh, pork ribs), Indian (roti canai, flatbread, dal, lentil soup), and Malay (satay, meat skewers; ikan bakar, grilled marinated fish) origin. And so much more! A true culinary commentary on the urban fabric. You can also choose one district or another. Like Little India, for example, where people trade and pray on a grand scale and in vibrant colours.

Day 5 Kuala Lumpur - Ipoh

Private transfer to the railway station. Train to Ipoh. New private transfer and settle in for two nights in a majestic landscape of limestone peaks, lakes, streams and green woods. Waterfront, caves, platforms - your accommodation fits into the landscape rather than just occupying it. You have your own private villa by the lake; on your doorstep, a pool just for you. Inside, the spaces are open, spacious, well-ventilated, and equipped to ensure notable comfort. Malaysia’s contemporary decor. Now is the time for natural wellness: thermal baths, Ayurvedic treatments, traditional Malay massages, and more. Additionally: there is a meditation cave and a crystal cave, hot cave, cold pool. The restaurant, tailored to wellness requirements, adapts its menus without giving up the pleasure of good food.
Optional - A dinner at Jeff’s Cellar. Set in a cave adorned with rock formations, this restaurant-bar and wine bar is not only a unique venue but also offers a chance to see that Asian flavours and wine can make the perfect pairing.

Day 6 Ipoh

Ipoh, the birthplace of the great Michelle Yeoh - Tomorrow Never Dies and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, to name just a few of her works  - is truly Malaysian. Here you find the juxtaposition of indigenous, Chinese, British and Indian elements - the legacy that history has left to the peninsula. And the prosperity brought by mining in the 19th century made this heritage opulent. This is all to the benefit of travellers, who see some truly beautiful sights. And in good condition, since tourism helps maintain the buildings. Restaurants, cafes and shops abound. Trade is practised here as one of the fine arts. During your walks, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to temptation. This makes a lovely counterpoint to the hotel’s wellness approach. Malaysia holds the secret to unexpected balances.
Optional - A private visit to The City of Millionaires.

On your itinerary - George Town, a multicultural city, explored as a private visit. George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is emblematic of the straits culture that shaped Malaysian identity. So, what do we do with our guide? We visit Little India, where saris and spices sweep through every shade of the spectrum. You step into the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, which showcases the Straits Chinese art of living in a magnificent early 20th-century house. Imagination finds its place here, as does a sense of history. The clan piers, built in the 19th century, sheltered different guilds who lived from the sea. They are now among the most picturesque features of George Town. Contemporary art has found its place in the city, too. The street painting installations created by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic have earned him international recognition. In short, there’s plenty to do with your guide.
Optional - Penang nature, villages and artisans.

Day 9 Penang - Langkawi

Flight to Langkawi. Private transfer and check in for three nights on the southwest coast of the island. On the beach. The hotel claims a Mediterranean spirit. The overall appearance and bright colours reflect this, but the interiors feature comfortable neo-colonial decor. This is layered with a touch of chic in the laid-back mood that comes with being by the sea. Your well-equipped studio faces the open sea, and you have your own small, private garden. Between the long white beach and your doorstep, an inviting pool lends a touch of blue beneath the palm trees. A spa with Malay traditions and natural cosmetics, and a gym, complete the facilities. At the restaurant, Asian, Australian and British dishes are served in a briny atmosphere. Depending on the circumstances, tables are set on the terrace, on the sand or indoors. The location of the property truly merits sunset certification.

Days 10 & 11 Langkawi

First, there is the beach. Which needs no lengthy explanation. Let us simply state that this place offers the ideal conditions for relaxation, with a gentle atmosphere and a lazy sea, perfect for swimming. Banana boat and sea kayak both have their fans. Diving and snorkelling are enjoyed in the clear waters of the archipelago. Not on Langkawi itself, but mainly on the protected coral reefs of Pulau Payar. Exploring the mangrove areas - along the Kilim River, for example - reveals the surprising richness of the wildlife. Small plains separated by limestone ridges around the edges, a Cambrian mountain range enclosed within it - the island is full of contrasts. The Langkawi Sky Bridge, reached by cable car to Mount Mat Chinchang, lets you walk high above the ground with a fantastic panoramic view. From golf to walks in the canopy, as well as nighttime outings in the jungle and birdwatching, there are always great opportunities to have fun and be surprised: Langkawi offers a wonderful range of outdoor activities.
Optional - A private visit to Kilim Nature Park.

Days 12 & 13 Langkawi - Return flights

Transfer to the airport, flight to Kuala Lumpur, then flight home. Night on board, arrival the next day.