Malaysia

Centuries of trade have resulted in a vibrant mix of tribal cultures, creating an intriguing and veritable melting pot of people, traditions and religions.

Tropical island resorts offer a taste of Malaysian paradise, while beneath warm coral seas, world-class dive sites await exploration.

Charming orang-utans, the oldest rainforest in the world and majestic mosques and temples are enough to tempt even the most jaded visitor.

Flying time: Kuala Lumpur -12 hours 30 minutes.

Time difference: GMT +8 hrs.

Getting there: Direct flights to Kuala Lumpur with Malaysian Airlines.

Currency: Ringgit.

Vaccinations: Precautions for typhoid, poliomyelitis and cholera are recommended, with some regions under risk from hepatitis A and malaria - please contact your doctor for up-to-date information.

Visas: British passport holders do not require visas. All other nationals please check visa requirements with the embassy.

Best time to visit: Hot and humid with short downpours of rain year round. Monsoon season in Langkawi is during our summer.