'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.

Attractions in Malaysia stand like giant beacons landing the international visitors at its cities. Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur are the second tallest buildings and are beautifully designed ways to experience a modern Malaysia. Both the National Mosque and Kuala Lumpur Railway Station are other great examples of the city's architecture.

However things to do in Malaysia aren't limited to modern constructs as Malaysia's natural attractions are even more beckoning. Mt Kinabalu towers over the Malay landscape which includes the Sepilok Forest Reserve and the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park and Sipadan Island. Other great island attractions are Tioman, Langkawi, and Perhentian islands all of which are nearly deserted by visitors over monsoons season November to January. One of the world's largest limestone caves is visitable at Niah National Park.

1. Petronas Towers
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.

2. Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
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.

3. China Town
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.

4. Lake Gardens
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.

5. National Mosque
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.