'Selamat Datang' is the traditional Malaysian greeting that welcomes visitors to this vibrant and exotic country. Ethnically diverse cultures share the same lush landscape and create a fusion of cultural styles, cooking and religions that is distinctly Malaysian. Festivals throughout the year mark the Malay, Chinese and Indian holidays, as well as those of the indigenous Orang Asli and the tribes of Sabah and Sarawak.

Malaysia is a country with two distinct parts. Peninsula Malaysia constitutes the long fringe of land, extending down from Asia, which borders Thailand and Singapore. The South China Sea separates the mainland from the less populated East Malaysian provinces of Sabah and Sarawak. The dense jungles of Sabah and Sarawak support abundant plant and wildlife and Mt Kinabalu in Sabah stakes its claim as the highest peak in South East Asia.

It is the Peninsula that seems to attract the most visitors, probably because of the diversity it offers in the way of people, activities and climates. The highland regions offer cool relief from the clinging humidity of the mainland, while Langkawi is the popular choice for sand and surf enthusiasts. The east coast, particularly the northern Kelantan province, offers the chance for an interesting cultural exploration of traditional Malay life. The city of Kota Bharu and its surrounds is possibly the most fascinating part of the peninsula, and the least visited, with a remote beauty and rich culture. The west coast is favoured for historical interest, and is where Malaysia's capital city, Kuala Lumpur is to be found, the icon of Asian prosperity and the meeting point for expats and city slickers who enjoy the energy of urban life. The city is a powerful mesh of tradition and technology, vying for equal status.

Merdeka Square

Address: Kuala Lumpur

The 328ft (100m) flagpole rising from Merdeka Square is the tallest in the world, and marks the place where Malaysia achieved independence in 1957. The city's colonial past is still very much alive in the architecture of the surrounding buildings and the field still hosts the occasional cricket matches. The Tudor-style Royal Selangor Club rests on one corner of the square, looking onto a large video screen displaying religious messages and advertisements. The Club served as a social centre for Kuala Lumpur's British residents; its doors are now open to anyone who can afford the membership fees. In keeping with die-hard customs women are still not allowed entry to the bar, except by invitation.

Chinatown

Address: Kuala Lumpur

The crowded and colourful Chinatown area is a jumble of shops, food, smells and people. The central section of Petaling Street is closed at night to traffic and the street is transformed into an exciting, brightly lit experience. Vendors spread their wares onto the pavement and one can stroll along endlessly taking it all in. Merchandise ranges from jewellery to toys and t-shirts and bargaining for the best prices is accepted practice and part of the fun.

Petronas Towers

Address: City centre. Ticket Booth: Tower 2, Concourse Level Kuala Lumpur

Admission: Admission to the Skybridge is free, but tickets are limited per day The Skybridge is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 7pm, but tickets go on sale at 8.30am

Telephone: (0)3 2331 1769 (Skybridge)

The Petronas Towers are designed to impress and encapsulate Malaysia's emergence as South East Asia's commercial and cultural centre. Celebrated as one of the tallest towers in the world, the buildings stand at a height of 1,483ft (452m) and are joined by a skybridge extending 192ft (58m) across. Traditional geometric principles of Islamic architecture have been followed using modern technology, with an inspiring result. The Petronas towers are used as office complexes that form part of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre Development Park.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

Address: Jalan Hishamuddin Kuala Lumpur

Telephone: (0)3 227 6063

British architect, AB Hubbock was inspired by North Indian Islamic design when he conceived this magnificent railway station. Spires, minarets, towers and arches explode against the backdrop of skyscrapers emphasising the glory of Moorish elegance. It serves not only as an aesthetic vision but is in use as an important commuter station.

Friday Mosque (Masjid Jamek)

Address: Jalan Tun Perak Kuala Lumpur

Admission: Free Saturday to Thursday 8.30am to 12.30pm and 2.30pm to 4pm. Friday 8.30am to 11am and 2.30pm to 4pm

Telephone: (0)3 274 6063

Masjid Jamek is located where the Gombak River flows into the Klang River and with its palm tress and curved steps leading to the water's edge, it is a haven of peace and tranquillity set amongst the buzz and rush of modern KL. The Mosque is built on a symbolic site dating back to the origins of Kuala Lumpur, being the spot where the founders of the city first set foot. The design was inspired by Mogul mosques in northern India. Cupolas and minarets top the brick walls and arched colonnades. As with all mosques, a visit calls for conservative dress and the removal of shoes.

Lake Gardens

Address: Jalan Perdana Kuala Lumpur

Admission: Butterfly House: RM5; Bird Park: RM1; Orchid and Hibiscus Gardens: RM1, free on weekdays Butterfly House: daily 9am to 6pm; Bird Park: daily 9am to 6.30pm; Orchid and Hibiscus Gardens: daily 9am to 6pm

Telephone: (0)3 2691 6011

These 60-hectare (148-acre) gardens established in 1888 form the green belt of Kuala Lumpur. The lush vegetation surrounds a vast lake. Visitors can take a leisurely boat cruise to enjoy views of the gardens from the water (RM4 per hour: Saturdays, 2pm to 5.30pm and Sundays 8am to 5.30pm). The gardens incorporate the National Monument, Butterfly House, Bird Park, Orchid and Hibiscus gardens, with Malaysia's Parliament House situated at the northern end.

National Mosque (Masjid Negara)

Address: Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin Kuala Lumpur

Admission: Free Daily 9am to 6pm, except Friday during prayers 2.45pm to 6pm

Telephone: (0)3 2693 7784

A modern contrast to the Friday Mosque, the National Mosque was completed in 1965 and remains the largest mosque in South East Asia - the vast main prayer hall can accommodate up to 10,000 people. Many of the city's Malay office workers congregate here for the Friday afternoon prayers. The impressive 18-point star-shaped dome represents the 13 states of Malaysia and five central Pillars of Islam. Entry is only permitted once prayers have been concluded. Robes can be borrowed from the desk at the mosque entrance.

National Museum (Muzium Negara)

Address: Jalan Damansara Kuala Lumpur

Admission: RM2; free for children under 12 and children wearing school uniform Daily 9am to 6pm

Telephone: (0)3 2282 6255

Malaysia's historical artefacts and cultural icons are housed in an appropriately designed building, reflecting the Minangkabau architectural style of the region. Ethnographic and archaeological exhibits include life-size dioramas depicting various aspects of traditional Malaysian life. Shadow play (Wayang kilt) displays reflect the ancient artistry of the nation, while exhibits of traditional weapons such as daggers (kris) and machetes (parangs) reveal the Malaysian pride in functional aesthetic forms.

Batu Caves

Address: Kuala Lumpur

Admission: A small entrance fee is charged

Stalagmites and stalactites festoon the interior of these impressive limestone caves together with the Hindu shrines that honour their deities. The caves were discovered by the American explorer William Hornaby in 1881 but have since become associated with the celebration of Thaipusam, a three-day religious festival during January/February. Thousands of devotees flock to the caves during the festival to pay penance and undergo rites of self-flagellation that are fascinating to observe. The largest of the caves, Temple Cave is reached by climbing 272 steps to its entrance from which a path leads to Museum Cave - housing a dazzling display of ornamental religious art. There is a clear view from the top to the Subramaniam Swamy Temple, set within a large cave that extends for 262ft (80m).

National Park (Taman Negara)

Address: Kuala Lumpur

Admission: RM1 (park permit), RM5 (camera licence)

Telephone: (0)3 905 2872

Taman Negara contains some of the oldest rainforest in the world and spans thousands of square miles of protected land. Its richly diverse fauna and flora have evolved over a staggering 130 million years. The best way to explore the diversity of plant and animal life is by 'trekking' along the jungle trails. Although seldom seen, a small population of nomadic Orang Asli people still live in the rainforest, their makeshift shelters appearing in places amongst the jungle growth. Besides trekking, the park's other attractions are fishing, river rafting or bird watching and climbers can explore the Peninsula's highest mountain, Gunung Tahan at 7,175ft (2,187m). The best time to visit the park is between March and September.

Melaka (Historic City)

Address: Kuala Lumpur

Telephone: (0)6 281 4803 or (0)6 293 3913 (tourist information)

The fascinating seaside city of Melaka (Malacca) preserves the historic convergence of Chinese and European cultures. Its strategic position on the Straits of Melaka brought a tide of trade with China, India, Siam and Indonesia. Colonial powers wrestled for control, and much of the Portuguese influence from the 1500s is cemented in its architecture. The most notable cultural presence today is predominantly Chinese. Chinese merchants continue to ply their trades in the tradition of their forefathers. Open-air markets burst with colourful fruit, vegetable and fish produce. The oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia, Cheng Hoon Teng together with the vast Chinese cemetery, support a thriving industry entirely dedicated to the deceased. The merging of Chinese and Malay have produced a unique ethnic group found in Melaka, the Baba-Nyonya. The unique lifestyle of this micro-culture can be explored in a dedicated Baba-Nyonya museum.

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Address: Sabah

Five pristine islands comprise this 4,929-hectare (12,100 acre) park. The islands are: Gaya, Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi and Sulug. Each is an idyllic composition of white beaches and offshore coral reefs hugging inland forests teeming with animal life. Visitors are welcome to camp, trek, swim and snorkel around each of these.

Sipadan Island

Address: Sabah

This mushroom-shaped island is known amongst divers around the world for its unique seascape and exceptional beauty. A rich variety of marine life shimmers through the translucent waters surrounding this oceanic island.

Mt Kinabalu

Address: Sabah

Telephone: (0)8 821 1585

Mount Kinabalu rises from the Kinabalu National Park at an impressive 13,500ft (4,101m), the highest mountain between the white peaks of the Himalayas and those of New Guinea. Despite its formidable height, it is a comparatively easy climb that has been enjoyed by tourists of varying ages and fitness levels and takes two to three days.

Bako National Park

Address: Sarawak

Telephone: 011 225 049

19 Miles (30km) of trails wind through this park of tropical rainforest, mangrove swamp and rocky headlands. Protected species of Hornbill and proboscis monkey are at home here and walkers can expect to see diverse plant and wildlife within its boundaries. Permits are required and can be obtained in advance from the Sarawak Tourist Association office.

Niah National Park and Niah Caves

Address: Sarawak

Telephone: (0)8 573 7450

The Great Cave of Niah is one of the largest limestone caves in the world, and an archaeological treasure house. It was here that archaeologists discovered the evidence of man's existence dating back 40,000 years. A display of tools, rock paintings and human skulls tell the story of ancient civilisations. The rest of the park is dominated by limestone vegetation and the magnificent Gunung Sabis peak at 1,294ft (388m).

Sepilok Forest Reserve and Orang-Utan Sanctuary

Address: Sabah

Admission: Orang-Utan Sanctuary: RM30 (adults), RM15 (children). The use of cameras and video recorders is an extra RM10 Feeding times are at 10am and 3pm. The centre is open daily 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm

Telephone: (89) 531180

This vast equatorial rainforest is an enchanting excursion that is best explored through self-guided trails. The most interesting diversion from these trails is provided by a trip to the Orang-Utan sanctuary. Here Orang-Utans that have been rescued find temporary shelter before their release into the forest.

Honeymoon and Wedding

A honeymoon in Malaysia ensures a vast selection of interesting experiences for any couple, from the vibrant buzz of Kuala Lumpur to hillside retreats in the beautiful mountains, and beach resorts gracing the tranquil shores. This honeymoon destination is romantic, colourful and intriguing; a good platform from which to establish a new life together. Malaysia Honeymoon Things To Do For couples who like a bit of action, Kuala Lumpur won't disappoint - this enticing city is home to quite a few romantic attractions. Stroll hand-in-hand through the Lake Gardens, splash out on a couple of love tokens from Chinatown, or share a dinner of exotic cuisine offered by one of the city's exquisite restaurants. In Malaysia's main mountain range, hill resorts offer honeymoon couples a quiet, private retreat where the peaceful surroundings are the perfect setting for some lovely quality time. This natural tranquillity is most evident at Fraser's Hill Resort, while the Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands resorts are more upmarket and a bit busier. Visiting a Cameron Highlands strawberry farm could be romantic... There are various beach hotels and resorts along the coast for newly-weds to enjoy. The most popular, luxurious and secluded of these is Pangkor Laut Resort, located on a privately owned island in the Straits of Malacca. The Tanjong Jara and Tioman islands are also stunning honeymoon destinations. Malaysia Honeymoon Specialists Many of these exclusive Malaysian resorts and hotels offer special honeymoon packages to couples, and there is no end to the opulent services and facilities available. Visit Turquoise Holiday for detailed Malaysia honeymoon listings.