Island Travel Guide: Copy this route if it's your first time in Malaysia!
As an AirAsia travel enthusiast, I've thoroughly explored both East and West Malaysia this time—the sunsets in Kota Kinabalu, the crystal-clear waters of Semporna, and the festive atmosphere of Penang were simply divine! This guide provides a comprehensive overview of essential Malaysian travel tips.
🌅 Kota Kinabalu: A Seaside City Bathed in Romantic Sunsets
National Geographic's Top 3 Global Sunset Ranking Truly Deserves Its Reputation! Head to Tanjung Aru Second Beach before 4:30 PM to secure a spot; the backlighting creates cinematic silhouettes of palm trees, and the fiery orange clouds against the sky are breathtaking! Explore the colorful murals along Citywalk in the city center—every snapshot is a masterpiece!!
🐠 Tawau (Semporna): A Blue Paradise for Diving Enthusiasts
The sea in Semporna is so clear it seems to glow! Timba Timba sandbar, Mataking's crystal-clear waters, and the sea turtles of Pom Pom Island—dive underwater to discover colorful corals and schools of fish. Beginners can get one-on-one coaching, so even non-swimmers can enjoy the thrill! Plus, unlock the ticket stub photo opportunity: frame your ticket stub with your hand against the endless sea view for a stunning shot! Local seafood market bargaining tips: crabs and mantis shrimp can be had for just a few dollars per person—seafood is easily within reach!
🏮 Penang: A retro city brimming with Lunar New Year atmosphere. A different place to celebrate the New Year is just perfect! In Penang, the Year of the Horse 2026, red lanterns adorned the shophouses, the Kek Lok Si Temple's "Ten Thousand Lights for Blessings" was incredibly photogenic, and the Chew Jetty boardwalk exuded the charm of the overseas Chinese community—the festive atmosphere was at its peak! From Char Kway Teow and Assam Laksa to Nyonya Kueh, the Shantou Street Night Market offered a feast from start to finish, every bite a taste of Southeast Asia.
This trip was both therapeutic and photogenic. Taking photos with my AirAsia ticket stub during Chinese New Year added a touch of ritual. I embraced the island's beauty and unlocked the essence of Southeast Asian New Year, making this Year of the Horse a truly enviable experience!
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