Steppes Travel | Malaysia - Know before you go

Know Before You Go MALAYSIA

Introduction The anticipation of your holiday should give you enormous pleasure. In order to ensure you are fully prepared for your next trip we have put together this document which contains essential information about the country you are soon to visit.

We know that visa requirements and electrical currents are not the most scintillating of topics but we also know that being forewarned is forearmed and we would hate for you to come back from your holiday, thinking “if only Steppes had told me that!” Travelling should be inspirational but above anything else it should be fun. We hope this information takes care of the more mundane matters of planning a trip so that you can then focus on building up excitement levels pre-travel, safe in the knowledge you’ve got everything covered.

DID YOU KNOW? "Before the name Malaysia was adopted, the country also considered calling itself Langkasuka, which was the name of one of the ancient kingdoms of the Malay Peninsula.”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How long are the flights to Malaysia?

Is the street food safe to eat?

Direct flights to the capital Kuala Lumpur take around 13 hours.

The food is one of the highlights of any trip in South East Asia. On the whole the food is generally safe, although we always advise eating at busy stalls which are popular with the locals. This way you know the food is not only safe, but the best.

You also get to rub shoulders with the local people this way.

What is the time Zone in Malaysia?

Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of GMT.

What is the International dialling code for Malaysia? + 60.

Can I use my mobile phone in Malaysia?

Using your mobile in Malaysia is possible, although charges will be high. Pre-paid SIM card are available and provide a less expensive way of making calls.

How much luggage can I take?

Can I use my credit card?

Yes, some hotels and restaurants will accept credit cards for purchases. It is also wise to carry some cash for staff gratuities, US Dollars are gratefully received.

What are the rules on dress code?

International airlines mostly work on an allowance of 23kg for checked bags and 1 piece of hand luggage. However if you are traveling by light aircraft between locations in Malaysia you will be allowed a total of 20kg including your hand luggage.

With Muslim being the most popular religion in Malaysia, the dress code should be respected especially when visiting religious sites. Women must cover up bare shoulders, legs and avoid tight fitting clothing, especially when in less touristy areas.

Is Malaysia safe to travel around?

Is alcohol available?

Malaysia is safe to travel around easily without any problems concerning safety.

However, like any tourist destination smaller crimes such as pick-pocketing do occur.

Keep a close eye on belongings when out in larger crowds and leave any valuables at home.

What should I see when visiting the country?

For those who enjoy the buzz of city life then the capital city Kuala Lumpur is an exotic and exciting scene where modern skyscrapers and colonial architecture live side by side along with its multi-cultural residents. If you are wanting to escape the hubbub and stress of daily life then the island of Langkawi, with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, is the perfect place to unwind.

Can I access the internet during my trip?

Internet is available in the main cities and tourist areas.

Alcohol is available throughout the country, especially in cities and tourist areas although drinking is not a huge part of the culture. Look out for the local beers on offer, similar to those found all over South East Asia.

Where can I find updates on the weather before my trip?

Worldwide weather information is available: www.onlineweather.com or www.bbc.co.uk/weather

Do I need any immunisations or malaria tablets?

The best person to speak to is your Doctor or Nurse Practitioner as the advice can change.

LANGUAGE We feel that it is important to try to learn the native language, even if it is only the words for hello and goodbye, not forgetting thank you.

English

Malaysian

Hello Good bye How are you?

I’m fine, thanks.

What’s your name?

My name is …

I don’t understand Please Yes / No

Selamat datang Selamat tinggal Apa Kabar?

Khabar baik, terima kasih Siapa nama anda?

Nama saya…

Saya tidak faham Sila Ya / Tidak

FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE In association with the 'Know Before You Go’ campaign Steppes Travel are working with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) to do all that we can to help British travellers stay safe overseas. Please visit the Foreign Office website for any updates: www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo

VISA REQUIREMENTS

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Visas are not required for British Nationals to Malaysia for stays of up to 3 months.

Your passport must have two blank pages side by side, (a left hand and right hand page) for the stamp and at least six months to run from the return date of travel.

This is being strictly enforced by the immigration department and without this you will not be allowed entry.

Other nationals please check with the respective embassies or representatives.

For your safety and peace of mind, comprehensive travel insurance is required when travelling with Steppes Travel. We suggest the specialist travel insurance brokers Campbell Irvine. To arrange cover you can speak to our specialists or call Campbell Irvine on 020 7938 1734.

Please note that it remains your responsibility to organise visas when required (unless otherwise specified by your consultant) although we are more than happy to advise, help and provide the relevant supporting documentation where necessary.

If you already have travel insurance then we require confirmation that your policy provides adequate cover for the duration of your trip, covers the full value of your invoice, is sufficient for the destination(s) you are visiting and includes medical, evacuation and repatriation cover. Please send your travel consultant the insurers name, policy number and emergency contact number.

VACCINATIONS

HEALTH & SAFETY

There are certain vaccinations required for travel to Malaysia and prophylactics against malaria should be taken. We advise you to either check online at the Fit for Travel website www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or with your local GP/ travel clinic regarding ‘boosters’ for standard immunisations such as Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Diphtheria. A Yellow Fever certificate is required if arriving from an infected area.

Travelling with Steppes Travel is a wonderful chance to experience a stunning array of cultures, landscapes, ecosystems and activities. At the heart of this experience are the differences between our respective ways of life. You should understand that this means that standards of health and safety will not be the same as in the UK and may often be lower. Please refer to our full health and safety information on our website, under Travellers Code.

Pre-existing conditions If you have specific medical requirements, please consult your doctor prior to departure to obtain adequate supplies of any necessary medication that may be required whilst on holiday. Please carry personal medication with you in your hand luggage (in line with current airline regulations), remembering to keep a copy of your prescription or the usage guidelines with you as well.

AIRPORT & FLIGHT INFORMATION • • • •

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While travelling, please make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months.

Have appropriate visa for your destination and transit points.

Please note the date, time of your flight and also the time to arrive at the airport. Please be on time.

Please advise If you have a special meal requests (fasting, vegetarian, medical, Muslim, baby food, etc…), while booking your flight or buying your ticket.

Food items are not allowed to be carried in the cabin or inside the hand baggage.

Please affix your name and address label on the baggage. It is also recommended to put the label in side of your checked in baggage to help us identify the bag in case the baggage tag/label attached outside is detached & lost.

Please do not put valuable items such as money, jewellery, cameras and other expensive electronic items in your check-in baggage.

If hand baggage is collected at the check-in counter or at the gate due to its size being above the allowed limit, the airline will not be liable for the damage and loss of valuable items in the baggage.

Do not carry liquids or gels of over 100ml, toy or replica guns, razor blades, household cutlery, knives, scissors, knitting needles etc. in your hand baggage.

For your own and the flight's safety and security, please do not accept any item from anyone as you will be held responsible & accountable for the contents of any of the items found in your custody.

SHELF IMPROVEMENT

ETIQUETTE & CULTURE

We have put together a small list of books that are set around Malaysia. Both fiction and non-fiction, they will help you establish an understanding and feel for the country.

Due to Malaysia’s diverse ethnic make-up the country is a melting pot of religion, culture and traditions, making it an exciting destination that constantly inspires and suprises visitors. It certainly is a country where there is something for everyone; quaint colonial towns, rainforests bursting with wildlife, textbook beaches and vibrant cities. Around 60% of the countries religion is Muslim, followed by Buddhism, Christianity and Hinduism.

Author

Title

Paul Theroux Tan Twang Eng Mohammad Nor Khalid K S Maniam Rani Manicka

Ghost Train to the Eastern Star The Garden of Evening Mists Kampung Boy The Return The Rice Mother

ELECTRICITY Electric current in Malaysia is 220V. Most electrical outlets require European style (two round pin) plugs and some places will have UK 3 pin sockets.

With so many different religions and cultures living alongside one another, it easy to understand why there are numerous social rules and customs to follow.

If you shake hands, eat or give and receive something, do so with your right hand, as the left hand is thought of as unclean by locals, so is best avoided in case you cause offence. When visiting temples and mosques or rural areas, appropriate dress should be respected - arms, legs and shoulders should be covered. If invited into a local home then remember to remove shoes before entering.

Permission should be obtained to photograph local people beforehand. Please be aware that you are travelling in a country where services and transport structures are very different from our own western viewpoints.

CLIMATE

FOOD & DRINK Similar to its neighbour Indonesia, Malaysia is a culinary delight for the variety of flavours, techniques and influences on offer in its dishes. Due to its past, the country is home to three distinct food cultures – Malay, Chinese and Indian, all of which offer something for everyone. Rice and noodles feature heavily within every meal, and for those wanting to try one of Malaysia’s most popular dish then make sure you order a bowl of Mee Goreng Mamak – a stir fried noodle dish with meat, soy and plenty of chilli to give it an extra kick.

Throughout the year certain parts of Malaysia has great weather with only short bursts of rain, so there is no defined period for which it is best to visit. If visiting during December to March, then the west coast and Kuala Lumpur see the best of the weather with dry, sunny days. Around this same period the eastern coast of the country is victim to heavier downpours and rougher seas. For those wanting to get off the beaten track to Malaysian Borneo, then March to October is the best time to visit, although this area of the country sees unpredictable weather and hot, humid climate.

It is very important that you drink plenty of water especially during the warmer months. Dehydration is possibly the single biggest cause of ill health.

Bottled water is available from hotels, restaurants and shops. It is generally recommended that guests drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration. This excludes tea and coffee, which act as diuretics and can actually contribute to dehydration.

We want your holiday to be unspoilt by food and drink related health problems, please…..

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Avoid buffets in warm climates, and stick to dishes that have been freshly cooked and served, and not left hanging around in the warm.

Do not buy food from roadside stalls unless you have seen it cooked in front of you.

Stick to bottled water and make sure the seal is unbroken.

Make sure that all fruit and vegetables eaten raw, are washed in boiled or bottled water before eating.

MONEY The currency in Malaysia is the Ringgit (RM), which is made up of 100 Sen. Notes come in denominations of 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1 Ringgit, and do not be surprised if you hear the locals refer to Ringgit as ‘dollar’. USD, GBP and Euro are easily changed into local currency upon arrival.

ATMs are widely available throughout the country, predominantly in the major cities and tourist areas, with most card types accepted. Do be careful as some ATMs will charge for each transaction and have a maximum withdrawal amount. We also suggest making your bank aware of your travel plans to ensure your card is not blocked while abroad

Credit cards International Visa and MasterCard are usually accepted throughout Malaysia in shops, hotels and restaurants in tourist areas, although cash is generally preferred especially for smaller purchases.

Tipping Tipping is not compulsory. If, however, you want to tip because you have received good service, below is a brief guideline to assist you. (The below amounts are only a guide) Guides Hotel staff Porterage Drivers

US$20 per guest per day US$5 per guest per day US$1 per person per movement US$2 per person

Giving money Whilst the giving of money is a matter of personal preference or conscience, Steppes Travel feels that it is best to give a donation to a proper charitable entity, as opposed to freely giving cash to individuals.

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM Just because we believe travel should be of benefit to both traveller and the host country, that doesn’t mean having fun is frowned upon. On the contrary, it is positively encouraged and because you’ll feel like you’re giving something back to the local people, wildlife and environment, you’ll have even more to smile about.

Our policy is that we endeavour:

In return we ask you:

To work with privately owned companies and hotels rather than state owned or foreign companies in the countries that you visit.

• To support a number of charities which promote a wide range of education programmes together with environmental and community projects in the countries we visit. When possible, we encourage you to visit these initiatives.

• To encourage travellers to visit unspoilt areas of the world where low impact tourism can have a hugely beneficial effect.

• To take you beyond the ordinary, to local markets or community craft schemes rather than large corporation tourist shops so that your money benefits those who need it most.

Our ‘responsible policy’ is not just limited to the destinations in which we operate.

Responsible practice is exercised in our office with various measures put in place aimed at reducing, re-using and recycling resources where possible.

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To be sympathetic to local customs, traditions and idiosyncrasies, which to us might seem strange To be aware of local resources, particularly water and its purity, and treat them with care To be generous in relation to local monetary values, but do not over tip To give money where it is needed and not to hordes of children. Handing out gifts creates an air of expectancy and exacerbates the problem. Far better to give items such as pens to teachers To not buy goods that will have a detrimental effect on either wildlife or the environment however beautiful or plentiful they may seem. It only encourages others You are encouraged to report back on your experience and on the behaviour and awareness of our agents and local guides on your return.

Only in this way can we improve and ensure our demands are being met.

We are committed to developing our Policy of Responsible Practice even further in the future. Our aim is to continually incorporate new responsible practices into our business at all levels and encourage our suppliers to do the same.

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

British High Commission British High Commission Kuala Lumpur Level 27 Menara Binjai 2 Jalan Binjai Kuala Lumpur 50450 Malaysia

+6 03 2170 2200

Health and Vaccinations Malaria Hotspots Foreign & Commonwealth Office advice Fit for travel

0845 8502829

www.malariahotspots.co.uk www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk

The Visa Service

0870 8900185

www.cibtvisas.co.uk

Identity and Passport Service

0870 210410

www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-passport-office

Heathrow Airport

0870 0002468

www.heathrowairport.com

Gatwick Airport

0870 0002468

www.gatwickairport.com

Passport and Visa requirements

Airports

Flights Airline information

www.airlinequality.com

Currency Currency converter

www.xe.com/ucc/

WHAT TO PACK You will have your own ideas from past experiences regarding your personal list of ‘utterly indispensables’ and favourite items, so the following are our suggestions to supplement your own packing list.

Important Stuff

Essentials •

Soft bag between 45-70 litres

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20-litre daypack, for keeping everyday items handy

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Field Guides/pocket language guide

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Passport and photocopy (keep photocopies separate)

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Good quality sunglasses, preferably polarised

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Itinerary & Airline reference number

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Camera, memory cards, cleaning materials, spare batteries

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Copy of insurance policy

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Diary, note pad, pens, reading material

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Credit cards/cash

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Torch with spare batteries and bulb

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Emergency contact numbers

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Waterbottle – 1 ltr

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International vaccination card where relevant (i.e Yellow Fever Certificate)

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Camera Bag

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Wash-kit

*Please keep your photocopies separate from your originals.

Clothing • • • • • • • • • •

Base-layer: T-shirts and vests Outer-layer: wind/waterproof jacket/ Mid-layer: Fleece or sweatshirt Comfortable walking boots or trainers Long trousers suitable for walking. Pockets helpful 2/3 Long-sleeved shirts Wide-brimmed sun hat Small spare towel Flip flops/pumps Socks / underwear Scarf or shawl

Medical equipment • • • • • • •

Personal medical travel kit Personal prescription medicines Insect repellent Lip salve Spare prescription glasses Contact lens & cleaners Sunscreen

USEFUL TRAVEL APPS

XE Currency Know how much you’re spending with live updates.

Google translate Translates between 64 languages, with audio too.

Evernote Food Document recipes you love as you travel.

Map My Walk Calculate your duration, distance, pace and speed.

Weather Pro

Pin Drop

Weather reports for up to two million locations.

Pin on a map to record locations you’ve discovered.

Flight Track

Travel Smart

Follow detailed paths of thousands of flights.

Access to emergency services & health advice.

Prizmo

Trip Journal

A pocket scanner for all your important documents.

Tipulator Nifty tip calculator, also helps to split bills easily.

Flashlight Simple gadget, always handy for travelling.

Virtual scrapbook, geotagging pictures & videos.

WhatsApp Messenger Free to send pictures, videos & sound clips over wifi

Viber International calls and messaging for free.

Packing Pro

Triposo

Packing suggestions based on your destination.

Pocket Wikitravel, internet connection not required.

THE STEPPES TRAVEL GROUP 51 CASTLE STREET CIRENCESTER GLOUCESTERSHIRE GL7 1QD

T +44 (0)1285 880 980 F +44 (0)1285 885 888 ENQUIRY@STEPPESTRAVEL.COM WWW.STEPPESTRAVEL.COM