Malaysia is a wealthy land that fuses Indian, Malay and Indian customs and cultures. Though the cities are vibrant and modern, there are still places where one can reconnect with the natural world. When in Malaysia, shun the typical hotel experience and try something unique that will give you a taste of the real flavor of Malaysia.

Bon Ton Resort

Located in Langkawi on a sprawling hundred year old coconut plantation, these accommodations are part of the Malaysian architectural legacy. Each of the seven kampung houses are more than a century in age. Restoration has not taken away their natural charm, merely added some contemporary touches. They still sport antique baths outdoors along with intricate wood carved details on each of the facades. Delicious fare can be tasted at the Nam Restaurant and housed in a wooden shophouse one can relax with a cool beverage at the Chin Bar & Lounge.

Awi’s Yellow House

Those on a shoestring budget don’t have to give up style and flair when staying at Awi’s Yellow House. Located on the island of Terengganu known for its boat building heritage, each of the kampung huts sit perched on stilts over the river. It is rustic and charming and because of the affordable price, it is a favorite with backpackers and trekkers.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

These accommodations can be found in Penang and boast the distinction of being the only Mandarin courtyard mansion in all of South East Asia that is open to the public. It was built by Cheong Fatt Tze a great Chinese Kapitan in the 19th century for his seventh wife who enjoyed his favor. The Feng Shui style of interior design is evident in each of the sixteen rooms that are decorated with period furnishings. “Blue Mansion” as it is fondly called is one of those places that everyone must experience in their lifetime when traveling to Malaysia.

When one travels to a foreign land, staying in the usual hotel setting adds nothing to the appreciation of the customs and heritage of its people. Staying in more traditional accommodations in keeping with the native culture can make your traveling experience one that is not soon forgotten.

Those that dare can take a night walk through one of the oldest rain forests in the world. It can be found in Malaysia and the natives call it the “Green Heart.” From every direction you will hear an overwhelming cacaphony of insects as well as a million other tiny sounds that make up its wondrous whole.

This is what you can expect when you visit Malaysia’s oldest national park. It is an experience that won’t soon be forgotten if ever. It is a place filled with the sound of the night and the creatures that inhabit a darker world than our own. Here you can see more than 350 different bird species along with 10,000 types of plants as well as a host of other creatures.

Be prepared for an experience that can only be likened to scuba diving in the dark waters of the evening. You cannot see the sky and you can only see as far as your flashlight will brighten. Though you will be surrounded by umpteen different kinds of sounds, finding what makes those sounds will not be easy.

The rain forest is said to be nearly 130 million years old and its denizens have had that long to learn to adapt for their survival. Many are masters of camouflage and it is especially true of the stick and leaf insects.

There are three hides that are situated near the headquarters of the park and your tour would not be complete if you didn’t visit one of them. They are elevated and the are the ideal place for which to view the creatures as they prowl about and utilize salt licks.

No visitor to Taman Negara goes away without be awed and inspired. When you become one with the thick atmosphere that pervades the nighttime jungle you will appreciate not only the beauty, but the necessity of their continued existence as well.