For stopover holidays, many travellers choose to transit at the Kuala Lumpur International Airports (KLIA) for immediate connections to popular destinations like Langkawi, Penang, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.  Located at the crossroads of Asia, Malaysia is a convenient place for business meetings or conferences.  Adding a few days before or after such activities enables visitors to gain a better appreciation of just what Malaysia offers.

Many travellers on long-haul flights also choose to break their journey here.  Alternatively, spend a few days in Kuala Lumpur to indulge in shopping, dining, partying and sightseeing.  One of the best things about Malaysian stopover is that it gives a brief introduction to the country but just enough time for visitors to contemplate when to return.

There are cool hill stations such as Cameron Highlands, Fraser's Hill, Bukit Tinggi and Genting Highlands.  The tranquil islands of Langkawi and Pangkor offer relaxing retreats with their scenic beaches, deluxe hotels and water sports.

Kuala Lumpur is unique for its contrasting architectural styles from Moorish, Tudor to contemporary.  Other interesting spots are the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and National Museum.  Visit the Central Market for souvenirs and hunt for bargains in Petaling Street.  A half-day tour of Putrajaya with its beautifully landscaped roads and parks as well as innovative modern buildings will delight the senses.

The historic trading of Malacca and Georgetown in Penang are eclectic in character having been shaped by settlers from many lands.  Penang is known for its balmy beaches, tasty food, colourful festivals and the historic Eastern and Oriental Hotel.

On the overland route to Penang, visit Kellie's Castle, cave temples in Ipoh, the royal town of Kuala Kangsar and colonial Taiping, Perak.  The natural attractions here include Kuala Selangor's fireflies, Perlis State Park, eagle feeding in Langkawi, bird watching in Fraser's Hill and diving in Pulau Payar Marine Park.

Take in one of many pastimes here such as top-spinning or kit-flying and simply watch craftsmen at work at the cottage industries nearby.  The lively markets in Kota Bharu and Kuala Terengganu should not be missed.

There are stretches of beautiful beaches and charming fishing villages along the east coast.  The offshore islands are particularly appealing providing simple chalets and up market resorts.  There are several resorts around Kuantan and mostly village style chalets in Cherating.  Turtles lay eggs along some sandy beaches.  Beserah beach near Kuantan is where buffaloes pull in the fishing catch at certain times of the year.

Diving and snorkeling is excellent off islands like Perhentian, Redang (well-known worldwide), Lang Tengah, Kapas, Tenggol and Tioman Island.  The inland Tasik Kenyir is the largest man-made Lake in the region, a very popular spot for angling and nature lovers.  Taman Negara, the country's premier national park can be accessed from any of the three states on the east coast.

For easy accessibility to these states, visitor can fly directly to Kota Bharu, Kuala Terengganu, Redang Island, Tioman and Kuantan from Kuala Lumpur.  To enjoy the coastal scenery one can drive via the East-West Highway in the north or Karak Highway in the central peninsula.