Malaysia

[Sprocket]

Anyone done any cycle trips in Malaysia?

Few questions:
Which parts did you go to? Would you recommend a trip there? Anything you would skip / add-in in hindsight?
How long did you go for? How was the weather?
Highlights/lowlights?
Wearing of shorts - I have read a few comments that suggest (especially for women) it is better to wear trousers. Do you agree? Did you wear shorts? Did you have any problems?

Ok - not few - lots of questions.....

[RonK]

You'll probably get more feedback by posting on the CGOAB forum and reading through the journals.

Yes, it is a muslim country, and you should show respect for local custom. Dress modestly.

Much of Malaysia is mountainous, if you don't like steep climbs then stick to the coast.

There was civil unrest in some areas so make sure you read the travel advice on smartraveller.gov.au

[Sprocket]

Thanks Ronk. Should have explained that I have already spent some time perusing CGOAB, and am well aware that Malaysia is a Muslim country. Having spent time in both ends of the Muslim spectrum - strict (eg Saudi Arabia) and lax, I'm curious as to where Malaysia fits in re shorts. It obviously isnt as strict as Saudi in that you can buy alcohol, but regardless my hunch is to go with trousers. Just wondered if any of the BNA tourers had first hand info.

[hosko]

I have lived in UAE and also Malaysia and know of what Saudi is like so have some experience in Islamic countries.

Shorts/T-Shirt are fine in Malaysia. Normally the religious "police" as such (yes there are some) only advise Malay women on their dressing sense, not the men or westerners. KL is fine for casual clothing for western people. Never had any issues over there. However two of the states in Malaysia Kelantan and Kedah are ruled by an conservative islamic party and are more strict than the other states of Malaysia.

I have found the following:

http://www.pccmalaysia.com/road/safetynotes.php

Some interesting notes...esp the one about body guards and magnums?

From living there, Malacca is an excellent place to visit, Ipoh, KL and of course Penang.

If you want to have a some climbing, the Genting Highlands or Cameron Highlands.

Genting Highland - http://www.climbbybike.com/climb.asp?qryMountainID=8170

Also here is a review of another riders tour 6-7 days which included the Cameron Highlands

http://travellingtwo.com/resources/malaysia/jungleride

Another option might also to email some of the riding groups over in Malaysia as they may have had members also complete tours around their spectacular countryside.

If your worried about your stomach, take some tabs with you (forum isn't letting me spell our i-m-odium) but generally eat where the locals do and you will be fine if you want good local food. It is the one thing about the place that I miss dearly.. the food. Chinese Malay food is simply the best over there.

[Sprocket]

Thanks hosko!
Great information.

[Andy]

Hi Sprocket,

I've been researching Malaysia and Thailand for a tour in mid/late March riding for a couple of months, maybe more. I was going to do it late last year but something came up so I have had to shelve the plans till now.

I've traveled in Asia and SEA several times before but not by bike. My main concern is if I leave in March it is going to be filthy hot and humid. It's the start of the hottest season there. On top of that the weather may be overcast a fair bit (possibly less issue with the sun) but again the humidity is considered oppressive at this time of year. This weather site is well worth exploring, [url]This website[/url]

And in case it didn't work http://weatherspark.com/averages/34042/ ... h-Malaysia

Initially I was thinking of plodding from Bangkok to Singapore or vice versa but I have time so am now investigating a loop of Malaysia starting in Phuket Thailand then maybe BKK but if the weather is as bad as I'm reading it will be then it could really sap the enjoyment from it. And air con rooms every night sap the funds too. My plan B at the moment is to travel up the east of Australia but SEA sounds more exciting and different. If you want to PM me it would be good to compare notes if you like.

Cheers,
Andy