Five things we learned from Travel Geeks: a taste of Malaysia
On 7 December, National Geographic Traveller (UK) hosted Travel Geeks: a taste of Malaysia, a digital event sponsored by Malaysia Airlines and Tourism Malaysia to explore all the country has to offer. National Geographic Traveller project editor Farida Zeynalova was joined by Malaysia-based photographer Matt Brandon, stand-up comedian and presenter Ollie Horn, freelance travel journalist Laura Holt and National Geographic Traveller content editor Charlotte Wigram-Evans. Whether you鈥檙e looking for an off-the-grid jungle escape or a culture-fuelled food tour, our panellists gave all the advice and recommendations needed to plan an unforgettable trip.
1. Why Malaysia?
There鈥檚 a plethora of reasons to travel to Malaysia, but our panellists gave us an insight into the most persuasive ones. 鈥淢alaysia speaks to your inner explorer,鈥� said Charlotte, and with its dense lush rainforests, some older than the Amazon, there really is no shortage of adventures to be had. The country allows travellers to get away from everything that鈥檚 familiar at home, too, Laura added.
2. The diversity of culture
Indian, Chinese and Malay communities all co-exist in Malaysia, adding to a vibrant and exciting atmosphere 鈥� so much so, said Ollie, that visiting the country 鈥渇eels like exploring Asia on cheat mode鈥�. From a Singaporean shopping mall experience to a deep jungle hike, there鈥檚 something for everyone. Matt emphasised that, due to the various religious festivals happening regularly, it鈥檚 easy for travellers to get immersed in the local culture.
3. It鈥檚 a great place to disconnect
Laura recommended heading to Batang Ai National Park, on the island of Borneo, to head up the river with the Iban tribe on a longboat and stay in a traditional long house in the middle of the jungle. It鈥檚 a way to get an idea of what it鈥檚 like to live in the middle of nowhere, completely unplugged from wi-fi, phone service and the outside world.
4. To drive or not to drive?
Ollie explained that Malaysia has a great public transport system, including a great selection of long-distance buses, adding that Kuala Lumpur isn鈥檛 designed with pedestrians in mind. On the other hand, Matt said the country鈥檚 roads are 鈥渟ome of the best around鈥�. Ultimately, renting a car in Malaysia is in no way essential but may be a fun luxury to make your trip a little easier.
5. Malaysian cuisine
For those who travel with food in mind, Malaysia offers a huge variety of culinary delights: from Indian to Chinese, plenty of delectable oriental cuisines are available. However, despite the range of nationalities present in Malaysia, the food on offer is unlike that of any other country, said Ollie. For example, the char sui in Malaysia is different to that in Hong Kong: 鈥渢hese are unique versions of a dish,鈥� he explained.
Watch the full discussion on the National Geographic Traveller (UK) , or click to see a list of upcoming events.
If your destination or company is interested in partnering on a future online event, we鈥檇 love to discuss any ideas you might have, or help you come up with the best way we can work together. Contact [email protected] or call 020 7253 9909.