[Updated 24 October 2020]
While the pandemic is still in progress, many people are thinking of ways to travel and practice social distancing at the same time. If you've been scratching your head at this one for quite some time, don't worry - we've got you covered with these 7 getaway ideas that you can do in Malaysia! They may not be the holiday getaway that you're used to in the past, but the bright side of it is that you can have more quality time with your loved ones and spend that quiet time with your significant other during your trip ?
1. Take a scenic road trip
Worried about being stuck in a crowded plane, bus or train? Then go on a road trip instead! If the destination you're visiting is accessible by road, then we say, take the highway. With so many scenic road trip routes in Malaysia, you won't have to worry about ending up with a boring drive. There's also something therapeutic about driving on a highway in Malaysia (if you're not caught in a jam ?). On a road trip, it's just you and your group of loved ones most of the time, so bumping into crowds won't be such a big issue. Not to mention that driving gives you a lot of flexibility and you don't have to worry about flight or bus cancellations. If you're planning a road trip, be sure to check out these 9 ways to stay safe!
P.S. Still undecided if you should take a flight or drive to your destination with the COVID-19 situation? We've compared the pros and cons of both in this article!
2. Go glamping
If you want to enjoy Malaysia's outdoors but you're not ready to rough it out, then you don't have to ?Thanks to glamping resorts (derived from the words "glamourous" and "camping"), you can still enjoy the outdoors while enjoying near hotel-standard amenities. Whether you're looking for a getaway near KL or heading further, glamping spots are aplenty and you can enjoy the lush greenery of Malaysia's tropical jungles. Check out our top picks for some of the best places to go glamping in Malaysia!
3. Hike at Malaysia's many scenic hills
If there's one thing you can do to immerse yourself in Malaysia's natural beauty and lose some calories, it'll be hiking! What better way to escape the crowds than to go on a scenic hike? You'll also get to enjoy some fresh air. Luckily, Malaysia is blessed with an abundance of scenic landscapes, lush national parks and majestic mountains that would light a fire in every adventurous soul ?. Check out one of these amazing hiking spots in Malaysia for an outdoor adventure!
P.S. Not leaving KL for the weekend? Head over to these 9 hiking trails to conquer in KL and Selangor which are perfect for every fitness level!
4. Stay in an exclusive resort with private pool
Nothing says "I need a break" more than going for a getaway at a resort! Before the pandemic, you might have booked a weekend stay at just any resort but with the importance of social distancing now, many of you might be looking to stay at an exclusive resort, complete with a private pool ? Not only that, you'll get to spend some quality time with your loved ones and that's something you'd want to cherish more especially with COVID-19. For those of you looking for a romantic getaway, private pool getaways are also perfect for your alone time. Travelling with a group of girls instead? Check out these 14 private pool villas!
P.S. For a cheaper deal on private pool accommodations, check out these 8 homestays in Malaysia with private pools!
5. Pamper yourself with a nature retreat
Credit: The Shorea on Facebook
If the beach is not your cup of tea, pamper yourself with a nature retreat instead! Being able to escape from the stresses of everyday life (even for a short while!) and being one with nature is not only an amazing break to your body but also to your mind and soul. For those of you who live near KL, you might have heard of famous nature resorts like The Shorea and Sekeping Serendah which offer you the jungle at your doorstep ? Check out these 12 gorgeous nature retreats in Malaysia for your weekend getaway!
P.S. Looking to book a stay near the river instead? Be sure to check out these 6 refreshing riverside accommodations in Malaysia.
6. Go on a secluded beach getaway
Credit: JapaMala Resort (Tioman Island) on Facebook
We love how Malaysia has pretty much everything from abundant nature to scenic hiking trails and even hidden beaches! If the thought of heading to Langkawi, Penang or Port Dickson for your getaways doesn't seem enticing due to their popularity, perhaps it's time for you to go off the beaten path and go on a secluded beach getaway. After all, a little bit of the sun, sand and sea is just what you need from time to time. Take it up a notch by heading somewhere far away from everyone else! These 12 breathtaking hidden island resorts in Malaysia are just what you need. Need more seclusion? Add these 10 hidden beaches in Malaysia to your list!
7. Visit Malaysia's National Parks
If you've already stayed at nature retreats and done enough glamping and hiking, one other way to get closer to nature is by visiting Malaysia's awesome national parks! With undisturbed natural environments and amazing wildlife to boot, national parks are definitely gems in our own backyard ? From the famous Taman Negara that's older than the Amazon Rainforest to spectacular sights like Gunung Mulu and Bohey Dulang in Tun Sakaran Marine Park, you'll be awed by these breathtaking spots. Check out the 8 best national parks in Malaysia in our guide! With ample space to roam around, keeping a safe distance from others won't be such an issue.
P.S. Heading to Taman Negara? You have to check out our 3D2N Taman Negara itinerary!
So, yes, it is still possible to travel around Malaysia and practise social distancing with these 7 things to do. If you haven't had the chance to embark on your #cuticutiMalaysia, now's the best time to plan on it!