Known as ‘The Islamic City’, Kota Bharu is situated in the north-eastern corner of Malaysia and serves as a gateway between Malaysia and Thailand to the north. Many people simply pass through this city on their way to or from Thailand, but for those who take the time to stop here for a day or two there are many surprises in store. Wander through the busy streets and you will come across colourful market places and interesting buildings to explore along with some of the best food in the region.

People who are planning to visit Kota Bahru should bear in mind that it is a very conservative city and although exceptions are made for foreigners you should dress respectfully and avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops. This is particularly relevant for women as Malay women are expected to cover their arms and legs completely whenever they are out in public.

Wander around Independence Square – Padang Merdek – and you will find a large number of museums and the Balai Besar or Royal Palace. This elegant building is a great place to explore, while nearby is the interesting octagonal building of the Pesar Besar central market.

Although Kotu Bharu’s center may seem rather chocked with traffic and noise, there are a good number of beaches on the outskirts of town. Known as the Beach of Passionate Love, Cahaya Bulan Beach is picturesque with long stretches of golden sand and crystal clear water. Also worth visiting is Pantai Bisikan Bayu or Beach of the Whispering Breeze, while Pantai Irama or Beach of Melody is believed by many to be the most beautiful of all and a popular picnic and camping spot.

There are a number of interesting temples to visit in and around Kota Bharu. Wat Pothivihan features a large reclining Buddha, while Wat Mai Suwan Khiri contains a dragon Boat and standing Buddha image. Another interesting temple is Wat Machimarran Varran, while the Wat Serova Buddhist Temples are dedicated to Kuan Yin, who is known as the Goddess of Mercy.

Home to the area’s highest mountain and some spectacular forest, Kinabulu National Park is a great place to explore. Most people visit the park in order to climb the mighty Mount Kinabulu, while for other the change to trek along forest trails and spot wildlife is more than worth the journey.

Covering 754 square kilometres, Kinabulu National Park features a large number of natural attractions such as waterfalls, gardens and the Poring Hot Springs, where the warm mineral waters are the perfect place to soak away aches and pains after a hard day of mountain climbing or trekking through the forest.

Mount Kinabulu towers 4,095 meters above northern Borneo. Climb to the top for spectacular views and for the unparalleled sense of achievement that conquering this mighty mountain brings. It is possible to climb to the summit and back in about four hours, although it is better to allow a couple of days and take an overnight break at Laban Rata as the best views come in the early morning.

Unlike many other mountains of its loftiness, there are no special mountain climbing skills needed to scale Mount Kinabulu, although potential climbers should be reasonably fit. However, the park staff recommend that those planning to climb the mountain hire a guide as the mountain can be rather dangerous.

Kinabulu National Park has its own museum, where visitors can learn about the area’s flora and fauna before climbing the mountain or taking one of the marked trails through the forest. There are also a number of places to spend the night within the park, with options ranging from dorm beds to pretty chalets.

Often dubbed Bougainvillea City, Ipoh is one of Malaysia’s largest cities, full of interesting old buildings and pretty places to walk. Head to the Old Town to see some great examples of colonial architecture and walk along the banks of the Kinta River, which is also known as Sungai Kinta.

Ipoh is famous for its food, and there are a wide variety of dishes to try. People travel from as far away as Singapore to dine on delicious curries, noodle dishes and a huge range of local specialties. A good place to find cheap and tasty food is at the hawkers stalls that line the road and gather by busy markets, especially in the evening.

There is a lot to do just outside Ipoh and many visitors head straight to the cave temples of Perak Tong, which was established in 1926 by a Buddhist priest. This interesting temple complex consists of an impressive number of caverns and grottoes. Murals adorn the interior walls and the main chamber contains a number of Buddhist figures and a large bell.

The cave of Sam Poh Tong is located to the south of Ipoh and contains a turtle pond. Another interesting day trip is the temple of Kek Look Tong, which also features a cool cavern. Climb into the cave and walk through to the back, where you will discover the Chinese Buddha of Future Happiness. There is also an ornamental garden with ponds and pagodas behind the cave.

Travel to the nearby royal town of Kuala Kangsar to explore Kellie’s Castle before paying a visit to the Geological Museum to the east of Ipoh. This is a good place to learn about the history of the town and discover a wide range of interesting fossils.

Situated on the east coast of central Malaysia, Cherating is one of Malaysia’s most popular beach areas. Blessed with golden sand, clear blue water and pretty palm trees, the intense natural beauty of this area manages to tempt most people to stop for longer than they had intended.

Cherating is a traditional Malay fishing village and this is a great place to dine on fresh seafood while you sit on the sand and listen to the sound of the waves on the beach and the wind in the palm trees. Most people visit the area to chill out on the beach, simply choosing a spot on the sand and sunbathing for a while. Water sports are also popular, especially yachting, surfing and swimming.

Although this is the perfect place for doing nothing all day, there are plenty of things to do if you have extra energy to spare. Bicycles can be hired from most guesthouses and cycling is a great way to explore the village and surrounding area. People wave as you cycle past and beckon you to stop and shop for locally made souvenirs.

Visit the turtle sanctuary and you may be lucky enough to arrive when the turtles make their way to the shore, which takes place between June and August. The Green turtles emerge from the sea late at night during these months to lay as many as 100 eggs at a time and visitors have the chance to watch the event.

The women of Cherating are skilled at arts and crafts and can often be seen weaving pandanus leaves into hats, mats, bags and other souvenirs. Visitors can learn a new skill by taking part in the locally run Batik painting classes.

Evening entertainment in Cherating is more imaginative than simply strolling along the beach and drinking in bars. Taking a cruise on the Cherating River is a relaxing way to see the area, while there are cultural shows displaying the traditional shadow play known as wayang kulit and the Malay art of self-defence.

Generally speaking, although women are safe to travel during the day, it is best to avoid stepping out along after dark. Women travellers will generally be safe in Malaysia as long as they dress conservatively. However, if staying in a hotel room alone at night you may receive unwanted visits at night. Be sure to lock the door at all times and if in doubt leave it closed.

When travelling in Malaysia it is important to remember that this is a conservative country. Consequently, things that may not seem like a big deal in western countries or only receive a slight fine are seen as major offenses in Malaysia and receive severe punishments.

Possession of drugs in Malaysia can be punished by the death sentence, even if you are carrying a small amount for personal use. It is best to avoid all contact with drugs in Malaysia and be suspicious of any stranger who offers to give or sell you drugs. Gambling is also highly illegal and can receive a heavy punishment.

Pick pocketing is a common crime in large towns and cities, especially Johor. There are also incidents of people driving up on motorbikes and snatching bags, often taking their victim along with them if they refuse to let go. Carry your bag on the shoulder facing away from the road and keep a close eye on your possessions in crowded areas.

Buy a good padlock for your bag and hotel door. You may find that windows don’t always fasten properly and you should fasten them securely with a cable lock. Don’t leave valuables in hotel rooms: carry your passport or ID document and other valuables with you at all times or deposit them in the hotel safe.

Make sure you negotiate the taxi fare with the driver before getting in and try to avoid fake or unregistered taxis late at night by using a dial-a-taxi service.