Malaysia is boosting its appeal for Aussie travellers with a wealth of new luxurious hotels and leisure activities launching around the country. Additionally, increased flight connectivity is making it easier than ever to reach Malaysia. Below are some of the highlights that are turning Malaysia into a luxury, leisure and lifestyle mecca this year.

LEGOLAND lands in Johor Bahru

Asia's first LEGOLAND park opened in late 2012 marking the fifth LEGOLAND to be built worldwide. Together with the opening of Hello Kitty Town, LEGOLAND has helped transform Johor Bahru into Malaysia's fastest growing waterfront destination and the area is already attracting many tourists and families seeking luxury and leisure options. New Traders and Renaissance hotels are planned to open later this year. www.legoland.com.my

 

Introducing Kuala Lumpur By Cycle
A new initiative means visitors can now rent bicycles to explore Kuala Lumpur's top city attractions. There are
currently 20 bicycles available within designated cycle zones. The Heritage Zone encompasses attractions such as the Sultan Abdul Samad building, the National Textile Museum, the Victorian Fountain, Royal Selangor Club, Cathedral
of St Mary and the City Theatre. Whereas the Park Zone takes tourists through the Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park, with stops covering Perdana Botanical Gardens, KL Bird Park, KL Butterfly Park, Deer Park, KL Hibiscus and Orchid
Gardens, National Planetarium, Tun Abdul Razak Memorial, Islamic Arts Museum and the National Mosque. Riders are provided with a safety helmet, safety vest and map. Additionally, they can choose to hire a set of headphones that provide an insightful running commentary. www.dbkl.gov.my

 

Malaysia Airlines launches new service between Brisbane and Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia Airlines is increasing its services as part of continued expansion in Australia and will begin daily direct services between Brisbane and Kuala Lumpur from 20 June 2013. The airline currently operates five flights per week between the two cities, so Brisbanites can look forward to more choice when booking their next trip to Malaysia. www.malaysiaairlines.com/au   

 

Hotel news

 

Seven Terraces, Penang

Seven Terraces boutique hotel opened its doors in 2012 and was designed by award-winning hoteliers Karl Steinberg and Christopher Ong - winners of a UNESCO Award of Distinction for heritage conservation - who converted a row of 19th century Anglo Chinese terraces into a gorgeous retreat. Situated in one of Penang's finest and most intact heritage streets, the hotel is perfectly positioned within walking distance of all the major icons and Penang's famous hawker food. The hotel features a generous lap pool, Asian fusion dining room, full bar and exquisitely furnished reception and public areas. www.7terraces.com 

 

Seri Chenang Resort & Spa Langkawi

Opened in mid-2012, new luxury boutique Seri Chenang Resort and Spa, a new luxury boutique consists of six villas, each a different size and boasting unique characteristics. Perched on the banks of Langkawi's Chenang River next to the popular Chenang Beach, the resort is set in lush tropical surroundings with sweeping views of the paddy fields, mountains and the sea. The resort features an infinity swimming pool, gymnasium, gallery, resort boutique, and the exclusively designed Kayangan Spa.  www.serichenangresort.com

The Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

The first Grand Hyatt property in Malaysia opened ahead of schedule late last year. The five star luxury hotel is in the city centre, adjacent to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Featuring 370 luxurious rooms and 42 spacious suites, the rooms are amongst the largest in the city. Each room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows to capture panoramic views of the vibrant city.  The hotel also features a variety of dining options, tranquil spa, 24-hour fitness centre as well as a heated outdoor swimming pool. kualalumpur.grand.hyatt.com

 

E&O Residences, Kuala Lumpur

The luxury serviced apartment residence managed by Eastern & Oriental Berhad (E&0) opened in Kuala Lumpur in December 2012. Sharing the name and pedigree of the legendary E&O Hotel in Penang, the Residences offer guests the superior level of hospitality that is synonymous with the luxury heritage brand, including a 24-hour concierge
service. Situated in the heart of the CBD, the chic E&O Residences comprise 200 stylish and spacious suites with breath-taking views of the city skyline. At the doorstep of the Residences, guests will find St Mary Place, an intimate
enclave with a collection of bistros, delis, boutiques and spas. www.eoresidences.com

 

The Andaman, Langkawi

A Luxury Collection Resort located in a gorgeous tropical setting on Malaysia's Langkawi Island, The Andaman launched two luxury room categories and a new beachfront seafood dining venue in December last year.
Named Jala, the restaurant serves Langkawi's finest fresh seafood. Chef Rene has created an exciting a la carte menu of Malay and Western seafood, complimented by an extravagant fresh seafood display. 
www.luxurycollection.com/andaman

 

The Eastern and Oriental Hotel, Penang

The remarkable heritage hotel in Penang opened its Victory Annexe wing in March this year after four years in construction. The 15-storey wing features 122 sea-view suites with private balconies, six banquet halls, the exclusive Planter's Lounge for guests, a coffee house, fully-equipped gym, spa and swimming pool as well as a retail arcade filled with international brands. www.eohotels.com

 

Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral

This hip new hotel, opened in March this year, is only a few beats away from the city's main railway hub offering guests easy access to the central business district and Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Aloft is kitted out
with the latest technology, hotel-wide high-speed internet access, and features
trendy restaurants and bars including w xyz(SM) bar which stays open 24/7.
www.alofthotels.com/kualalumpursentral

 

The Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel

Opening in June, the Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel will offer 345 exceptionally appointed guestrooms, designed with both the business and leisure traveller in mind. With 5-star dining and all-day dining restaurants with live cooking
stations offering both local and international cuisine, this new hotel will be the newest luxury hotel in Johor Bahru. www.marriott.com.au

 

The Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar

The Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar will be conveniently located in the heart of the city, adjacent to the iconic entertainment district of Menara Telekom and only a five minute drive to Mid Valley Mega Mall. Once complete,
there will be 513 impeccable rooms and suites, three restaurants offering international, Asian, Mediterranean and French cuisine, as well as four trendy bars. The hotel will also be equipped with 11 meeting rooms and two ballrooms
catering for 10 to 2,000 guests - making it an ideal venue for business meetings and gala dinners. www.accorhotels.com

 

2014 will see even more hotel openings including Sheraton Desaru Resort and The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur. www.starwoodhotels.com  

 

For more information on Malaysia please visit:

www.tourismmalaysia.com.au

www.facebook.com/tourismmalaysiaaustralia

http://instagram.com/malaysiaaus

http://pinterest.com/malaysiaaus/

@MalaysiaAus #visitmalaysia