Where to stay in Malaysia

Hotels in Malaysia range from inexpensive roadhouses to five-star hotels with cutting edge amenities. Facilities vary from the very basic (just a box room with a bed) to the truly luxurious: flat-screen TVs, in-room business facilities, and even private spa pools. Malaysia also has a number of atmospheric heritage hotels in historic mansions and colonial villas.

Kuala Lumpur has no shortage of hotel beds, but in smaller towns and at popular resorts, it is wise to book in advance, particularly during school and public holidays. Note that prices at the coastal resorts peak during the dry season – for bargain rates, travel during the monsoon months. A new official grading system was introduced in 2007, in which hotels are awarded 1-5 stars or an orchid rating for more modest establishments.

Resorts: Malaysia boasts some of the finest beach resorts in Asia, with on-site spas and pools and restaurants spilling right onto the sand. Most offer activities, including scuba-diving and other watersports. There are also plenty of moderately-priced resorts catering to local and international tourists, as well as budget resorts in the main backpacker hangouts.