While we’re obligated to #DudukRumah (translation: stay at home) to prevent the spread of Covid-19, we’ve had to suppress the wanderlust in us - even though we’re all just dreading to go out and explore! Surely, we’re not the only ones that miss travelling - yes, even going through airport security and long-haul flights.

So, what we find quite helpful to spark a little wanderlust at home is to plan and look forward to our next trip. And where better to start than Malaysia - the place we call home.

From the steel-and-glass metropolis of Kuala Lumpur, the historical UNESCO-listed George Town, to world-class diving sites and stunning beaches, Malaysia has to be one of the most diverse countries in Asia. It might have taken a global pandemic for us locals to learn to appreciate and take advantage of what our beautiful country has to offer. With international borders closed indefinitely, domestic tourism is definitely set to rise. If you’re a Malaysian, here are a few reasons why you should travel locally.

While we wait for the interstate travel ban to be lifted, here are some #CutiCutiMalaysia / #TravelMalaysia inspiration for you - including the usual suspects as well as the underrated, hidden gems. Read on to find out more!

1. Foodie Adventure

Let’s start things off with the obvious, and what many of us Malaysians would happily drive hours for - FOOD! Malaysian food is much like the country itself - culturally rich and diverse. We’ve inherited a vast array of cuisines from our melting pot of cultures. Drawing from Malay, Chinese and Indian ethnicities, there is definitely no shortage of flavour and options. In fact, due to overwhelming choices, we’re constantly scratching our heads and asking, “Where to eat?”

Well, we’ve gathered the local experts and put together some unmissable foodie experiences - including the fan favourites as well as the hidden gems that may have flown under your radar.

For world-famous street food, the place that pops into our head is none other than Penang - with its lip-smacking char kuey teow and its sweet, decadent cendol. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of food options Penang has to offer, so the strategic solution is to get a travel buddy to help you maneuver through it all. Here’s what we’d suggest - kick start your day with the ultimate Penang street food experience, burn off some calories with a romantic heritage walk, and bar-hop your way through the evening.

Click here for more foodie adventures, not just in Penang!

2. Cultural Immersion

In a place as diverse as Malaysia, we should take the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local living culture. Not just by cafe-hopping or taking touristy photos at landmarks, but by learning about the history and perhaps even going on a cultural excursion that’ll allow you to truly connect with the place you’re visiting. After all, what’s the point of just skimming the surface? We should travel deeper and more meaningfully - go off the beaten tracks, interact with locals, and discover the hidden gems!

Dubbed as ‘The Historic State’ and crowned a UNESCO World Heritage City, Melaka is thriving with rich culture and remnants of the past dating back to the 15th century. With plenty of historical sights to see and authentic cuisine to try, this dynamic city is a great destination for history buffs, foodies and adventure-seekers.

Explore the old charms of century-old Kampung Morten, experience the disappearing Peranakan culture with the Chetty community, and catch Melaka after dark for a unique perspective of the city.

Click here for more unique things to do in Melaka aside from the obvious attractions like the Dutch Square and Jonker Walk.

3. City Staycation

When someone says ‘staycation’, you’re probably thinking 5-star hotel stays and room service. But why not take it up a notch and become a tourist in your own city? After all, we live in one of the world’s greatest multicultural metropolises! KL might seem like any other big anonymous city, but beneath it all is a melting pot of history, culture and cuisine. Stroll through Kuala Lumpur’s oldest neighbourhood, explore Chow Kit Market, get your photos taken by a professional photographer and cap the night off with locally inspired cocktails.

We’ve got plenty more off-the-beaten-track experiences that will give you a whole new perspective of KL, check them out here!

#Cuti Cuti Malaysia: Plan Now, Travel Tomorrow