2 Wheels to China - Mission Complete!!!

Malaysia

Facts

Capital: Kuala Lumpur

Population: 24.65 Million

Language: Bahasa Malaysia

Currency: Ringgit

2 Wheels to China Ratings

Food & Drink: 8/10

Eating is very cheap in Malaysia, especally if you go to local noodle shops or street stalls. Many restaurants are Chinese style - it's actually not that easy to find true Malaysian cooking in restaurants. Hygiene standards are very good, so you don't need to be as cautious about what and where you eat as some other countries in Asia.

There are loads of roadside stalls selling fresh juice, coconut milk and fruit. Some are just good old bananas, some are very odd.

Tiger beer is available everywhere, but alcohol is comparatively expensive.

Road conditions: 8/10

All the roads we went on were excellent. They all have a decent shoulder on which to cycle, and some even have a huge motorbike lane. We did only go on main roads though, some of the back roads might not be as good.

The terrain was mostly flat or undulating, so with the great surfaces this made for excellent cycling.

Traffic: 8/10

The only heavy traffic we encountered was when we ventured onto an 8-lane expressway heading for Kuala Lumpur. It was very busy, and not recommended. Other than that, the main roads were generally quiet. Even approaching larger towns and cities things remained very manageable.

People: 8/10

We found Malaysians to be very helpful and friendly. It does help that almost everyone speaks English good enough to put us to shame.

Sights & Scenery: 6/10

It has to be said that we did not take the most scenic route through Malaysia. Melacca has some interresting sights, and the countryside was pleasant but nothing outstanding.

Miscellaneous

Visa: As a British citizen you don't need to apply for a visa beforehand. Simply fill out an embarkation card at Immigration and present this to Customs. Your passport will be stamped allowing you to stay 90 days on a social visit - be sure to keep the tear off section from the embarkation card as you will need to present this when leaving Malaysia.

Accommodation: Stunningly good value. If you go mid-range (about 8 pound per night for a double) you get immaculate and spotless accommodation, central air-con, tv, and hot water. Hotels can be very noisy, so be picky about which room you stay in, especially if there is a bar in the hotel, a busy street outside or a family with children staying.