Life

While we await international borders to be open once again and for overseas travel to be safe once more, everyone has been taking the opportunity to cuti-cuti Malaysia. According to Airbnb bookings, some of the most popular local destinations include Cameron Highlands, Kuala Terengganu and Port Dickson.

Now that the MCO has been lifted and Malaysians are able to travel again, albeit locally, there’s no better time than to plan a quick getaway in Malaysia with friends than for the last weekend of July since it’s also International Friendship Day on 30 July. In case you missed it, it happens to be a long weekend with Hari Raya Haji falling on 31 July, so don’t let that go to waste. Need ideas on where to go? Here are a few top picks available  for your staycation.

Regalia Suites Apartment, Kuala Lumpur

If you’re planning your next night out in the city with the girls or want to rent an apartment to chill and have drinks with the boys (and watch your next football match), the this apartment is perfectly located for all your needs. It’s a 15-minute car ride to Bukit Bintang so you can do dinner and drinks with ease before making it back. But with stunning views of the KLCC Twin Towers and the KL Tower, you just might want to stay in instead.

Templer Park Rainforest Retreat Villa, Rawang

Just 30 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city life while you enjoy a much-deserved respite in this villa nestled within the lush surrounds of Templer Heights, Selangor. It’s spacious enough for a big group and you will wake up to majestic jungle views provided by Kanching Rainforest Reserve. Oh, and that beautiful pool only downstairs from the villa will be a place you’ll want to start your mornings, or relax in with a drink in hand. 

Rustic House, Cameron Highlands

This warehouse-turned-modern homestay has kept all the charm of its original structure while now boasting comfort and tranquility. You’ll get the whole bungalow and its four bedrooms to yourself, flanked by the mountains. With its location in Cameron Highlands, this stay is perfect for those who wish to escape the whirl of city life.

Maritime The Panorama, Georgetown Penang

Hunker down in this peaceful and stylish Scandinavian-styled luxurious duplex apartment that offers guests a panoramic view of Georgetown and the harbour. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room ensure that you’ll be greeted by the spectacular sea view at any time of day. Plus, need we mention that foodie haven is just a drive away?

Lorong One Malacca, Melaka

Lorong One is a modern industrial-inspired homestay located in a quiet neighbourhood of Ujong Pasir, Melaka. With an indoor garden, it is a cosy place to stay where you can relax and even take insta-worthy photos in the compound. It’ll be your weekend home away from home with your friends and yummy food options nearby. 

Classic Bohemian Loft House, Kuala Lumpur

A staycation at this cute house with a bohemian twist will really relax you. There are local Malaysian touches everywhere, even at the entrance. Think of the endless Instagram opportunities at every corner and once you’re done, you can pull back the lace curtains to let the breeze in while chill out in your jammies with your besties over the weekend.

Barefoot Experience at the tip of Borneo, Sabah

If you’ve been dying for some vitamin sea, check out this private chalet. Perched on a small cliff top with unrivalled views of the South China Sea, this stay is perfect for a small group. Walk down the steps to a secluded beach – swim, snorkel get a tan and return in time to watch the sunset. There are other more adventurous activities like trekking, mountain biking and and mangrove tours if you feel up for it but if not, no one will complain if you decide to sleep in.

Chic minimalist apartment, Kuala Lumpur

Book you and your friends into this minimalist apartment in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and see where the day takes you. Or just spend the day gazing out at the skyline, binging on Netflix and order brunch in.

Luxe apartment, Kuala Lumpur

What’s chilling with your best mates without a touch of luxe over the weekend? This apartment features soaring ceilings, earth tones, contrasting textures and motifs that will get you into the long weekend mood right away.  Pop into Suria KLCC, Pavilion, Fahrenheit 88 and Bintang Walk, which are a stone’s throw away when you feel like exploring the urban jungle.