Malaysians are a rather laid-back lot, and this is perhaps true even when it comes to travelling. But with the dawn of a brand-new decade, rife with brand new infinite possibilities, and it is also a leap year, which only happens once in four years, there’s no better time to do something about it than now, in 2020. Agoda, a global digital travel platform, invites you to take the wanderlust leap, with some local suggestions to get those ideas flowing.
1.Take the leap and swim alongside underwater giants
Perhaps the underwater adventure on everyone’s bucket list, swimming with whale sharks is a popular travel “to do”, inspired by docu-dramas on the National Geographic and Discovery channels and divers Instagram pages. Imagine the adrenaline rush as you watch these silent giants sweep through the water in front of you, while taking in the plethora of Malaysia’s marine life.
Dare to take the dive? Book a trip to the beautiful Semporna, located at the East coast of Sabah. The Cube Bed Station is a hostel conveniently located in the city centre and has easy access to amenities. It’s a superb base for you to plan your day trip to the Oceanic Sipadan Island and take the leap at one of the top diving destinations in the world.
2.Take the leap, shut down and go on a digital detox holiday
The rat race. Social media. E-mails. Schedules. Deadlines. We all experience these and more on a daily basis. Sometimes, a retreat off the grid into nature, disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnecting with ourselves, may be just what we need to hit that “reset” button and recharge.
Malihom Private Estate Hotel provides this exact off-the-grid experience in Penang. The charming, green retreat is popular with both business and leisure travelers. It’s very easy to find some much-needed respite here, thanks to the calmness and comfort that is present in abundance.
3.Take the leap and pop the question on a literal high
Mixing romance and a little bit of thrill can make a memory of a lifetime. If you’re looking for a great location at which to propose to your significant other this leap year, look no further than the Heli Lounge Bar, located on the 34th floor atop Menara KH in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. With stunning 360-degree views of the city’s skyline, she’ll already have her head in the clouds, making it even easier to pop the question.
Once she says “yes”, continue the celebration nearby at the stylish Kuala Lumpur Journal Hotel, designed with a modern retro vibe and located right in the hive of nightlife that is Bukit Bintang. Among other things, you’ll be able to unwind at The Swimming Club, a rooftop infinity pool complete with a bar inspired by the Wes Andersen aesthetic.
4.Take the leap and start your own travel traditions
While you make arrangements to travel this year, why not make a pledge to conquer every state in this beautiful country of ours, and discover its diversity and nuances by taking a yearly road trip with your mates. Don’t know where to start? Why not begin at Malaysia’s historic state – Melaka.
Choose from the hundreds of places to stay. Rimba Hang Kasturi, located at Jonker Street, is ideal for both fun and relaxation. From here, you and your mates can enjoy easy access to everything Melaka has to offer.
So, whether travelling solo or with your friends or family, broaden your horizons with trips throughout Malaysia that enables you to transform physically and mentally. What’s stopping you?
The time is NOW!
