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other intriguing places that should not be overlooked. Penang is an island that sits off the north western cost of Malaysia and its capital George Town is a heady blend of traditional culture and a vibrant night life. The markets buzz with tantalising and unfamiliar sounds and smells that please the senses. Although Penang does not have the benefit of being a duty free island like its northerly neighbour Langkawi, bargains still abound in the bustling shops and stalls that invade the streets. Malaysia is not renowned for its nightlife, but there are exceptions and Penang certainly has the tools to turn you on and burn you out, if you fancy a bit of lurid decadence.

Melaka can probably lay claim to being the historical capital of Malaysia with some justification. Perched on the edge of the Straits of Melaka this ancient city is in a strategically important location for sea traders. The Portuguese and subsequently, the Dutch and British all colonised this corner of Malaysia in a bid to control the trading routes between India and the Far East. This chequered history has made Melaka the most diverse city in Malaysia, both in terms of history and architecture.

If Malaysia is my favourite country, then Kuala Lumpur (commonly called KL) could also lay claim to being one of my favourite cities. It has something for everyone. If you like sightseeing then there are few sights more impressive than the Petronas Towers that loom over the city like two colossal syringes. Until recently the Petronas Towers were the world's tallest buildings, but have since been surpassed by Taipei 101. KL Tower is another enormous building in the centre of KL, which actually offers a higher viewing platform than the Petronas Towers. The view is better in the KL tower too because you actually get to see the Petronas Towers from it, which clearly you can't if you're looking out from inside the Petronas Towers. KL Tower also boasts a revolving restaurant which is reasonably priced so you can savour the stunning view and the sumptuous food at the same time. The shopping in KL rivals anywhere in the world for quantity, choice, diversity and price. Inside the Petronas Towers you'll find floors after floor of branded clothes and flamboyant jewellery, while across the city in China Town you can wander the market stalls around Petaling Street and pick up a bargain, or a dodgy knock off. Restaurants and accommodation are diverse and plentiful, but always cheap. Even the Ritz and Shangri La are cheaper than most places in England. If you like your nightlife then Kuala Lumpur has many bars and clubs to suit most tastes, unless you're looking for Malaysia's answer to Hooters. If you want that then pop across the border to Thailand.

So Malaysia has something for everyone, apart from the keen skier. The people will make you feel like a king, the exchange rate will make you feel like a king and the diminutive stature of the Malays will make you feel like a giant. I told you they were like Hobbits!

Learn more about this author, Daniel Waters.
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