Malaysia & Borneo

A client of mine asked for something special this year. A blend of adventure, culture and remote luxury, but not necessarily all at the same place or time. This was a birthday milestone, and the appeal of a 3-centre experience was high on their agenda. I set about delivering something special and they loved it! A trip that people will ACTUALLY want to hear about after their return.

Enter stage left... Malaysia & Borneo.

Starting in Malaysia’s capital at the stylish Hotel Stripes, Kuala Lumpur, a chic urban retreat where local heritage and cosmopolitan flair sit side by side. A city tour unveils to them, historic mosques, vibrant Little India, atmospheric Chinatown and the buzzy Petronas Towers. Then onto the Batu Caves, a vibrant Hindu landmark set dramatically inside towering limestone caverns and watched over by a golden deity. It is sure to leave them in awe.

Next is the start of their ethical wildlife experiences, a day trip out to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary. Just a couple of hours from the city, they’ll meet these gentle giants and learn about conservation efforts protecting Malaysia’s wild elephants. A truly memorable encounter.

The whispering rainforests of Borneo then beckon and a stay at Nature Lodge Sepilok, where morning begins with birdsong and mist rolling across emerald treetops. Here, they’re just moments from the legendary Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where watching clever young orangutans swinging through the trees feels like a privilege they’ll never forget. Equally rewarding will be a stop at the Sunbear Conservation Centre and meeting the world’s smallest (and perhaps shyest) bears.

Further wilder encounters await. A drift upriver to Sukau Rainforest Lodge, deep in the Kinabatangan’s ancient jungle. River safaris will reveal astonishing wildlife: proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, even glimpses of elusive leopards in the tangled undergrowth. Every sunrise and dusk will bring new drama; every moment, a reminder of Borneo’s precious biodiversity.

After the excitement, it’s time to slow down at Maya Island Resort, where powder-soft sands and turquoise shallows will invite them to ‘simply be’. An island so remote, it’s only accessible by speedboat. It’s the perfect finale. Unwinding in paradise while reflecting on rare wildlife, and the colourful contrast that makes Malaysia and Borneo utterly enchanting.

If you dream of a holiday where city sparkle, raw nature, and breath taking wildlife come together, this journey will leave you truly inspired.

I can’t wait to see the photos!