Male

Male ("Maa-lay") is the island capital of the Republic of Maldives. Surrounded by azure waters and blue skies, this was a sleepy backwater until about 50 years ago when tourism took hold and it became the gateway for luxury beach and spa holidays.
Today, Male is the world's most densely populated city where every available piece of space is taken up on an island just over a mile long by less than a mile wide and home to around a third of the country's 350,000 people.
The 'Friday Mosque', a museum, shopping, the colourful fish market and soaking up some Maldivian life will be the main reasons for visiting Male. It's also the jumping off point to other resorts within the island chain.

Beaches around Male
Male has no beaches of its own - land is too precious for such frivolities. There are, however, 1,190 palm-fringed islands in the archipelago, of which 88 have been turned into upmarket holiday resorts with powder-white beaches, elegant spa facilities and much more.
Maldives operates a 'one-island, one-resort' policy so that's what you'll find - quite literally there will be a resort on your island and nothing else.

Sightseeing in Male
The quaint National Museum is housed in a former sultan's palace and has a treasure trove of ceremonial clothing, headgear and relics.
The Huskuru Miskiiy, or Friday Mosque, with its coral carvings and filigree work, is the nation's pride and joy and has been a place of worship for more than 400 years.
While bikinis may be the order of the day in the resorts, this is an Islamic country, so it's respectful in Male to cover up.

Family attractions in Male
The museum and the markets will be fun for more enlightened little people, but there is not a great deal for children to experience in Male.
The resorts hold plenty of attractions and kid's clubs and warm shallow waters are perfect for little sea goers.

Day trips from Male
Male tends to be a day trip in itself from the tourist islands, but if your resort is a seaplane ride away, it may be impractical and expensive to do this.
Flight-seeing by seaplane is a great but expensive experience, same with fishing trips and diving.
Visits to 'local' islands are possible, organised by your resort. If you wish to travel independently outside Male and the islands of the government-created 'tourism zone', an Inter Atoll Travel Permit is required.

Restaurants in Male
Spicy Maldivian food reflects the influence of early settlers from nearby Sri Lanka and southern India, although 'Western' food is widely served in resorts. As you would expect from an island nation, fish is the staple.
Tea-shops are the usual way of eating in Male. You will be viewed with curiosity but expect to budge up and share your table nonetheless. Workers pop in for a range of 'short eats' - local sweets and savouries - washed down by tea. At dinner, these turn to spicy local curries.
As a Muslim country, alcohol is unavailable in the capital - but is on offer in all resorts.

Nightlife in Male
Nightlife is not the reason people come to Maldives. The Nasandhura Palace Hotel in Male is where many ex-pats tend to gather.
In the resorts, night fishing and beach BBQs are a common activity, while performances of Bodu Beru - a dance to drums - are lively and intoxicating.

Shopping in Male
This is no Oxford Street, but there are some bits and bobs to be found on and around Majeedhee Magu and Chaandhanee Magu, although it's mostly imports from nearby Asian countries.
For something traditional, take home woven mats, models of traditional dhoni boats, or lacquer work. Have a look at the fish market on the northern waterfront, a hive of activity when the fishermen bring in their catch at the end of the day.
Avoid any "sea jewellery" you see for sale, such as coral, mother-of-pearl, black coral, seashell and turtleshell as these are all endangered species.
As it's cooler at night, many shops will be open until 11pm, but they close five times a day for 15-minute prayer times.

Langkawi

You'll find pristine beaches and superb bays on this gorgeous tropical island. A honeymooners' paradise, 70% of it is covered in lush mountainous rain forests, it's also home to hundreds of species of rare wildlife and vegetation.
You'll love the scenery and if you explore the palm tree-lined northern coast you'll find some of the world's most luxurious resorts.

Beaches around Langkawi
Beach-lovers will be in heaven as there are miles and miles of untouched and stunningly beautiful stretches. One of the best is Pantai Kok, which lies on to the west of the island, close to the spectacular Telaga Tujuh Falls.
Tanjung Rhu is a secluded white sand bay on the north-eastern tip of the island. The sea's sheltered by the bay and the waters are so calm it's almost like paddling in a shallow lagoon. It's a perfect spot for peace and tranquility. Or try Pantai Batu Hampar beach, part of the Sheraton Langkawi Resort, which is bordered by rocky outcrops on each end and shaded by coconut and mangrove groves.

Sightseeing around Langkawi
Away from the stunning beaches, which are the main sights on a Langkawi stay, there's isn't a whole lot to grab your attention. It's definitely worth taking the cable car up to the top of Mt Mat Chinchang for panoramic views of the whole island.
Mahsuri's tomb is a place of pilgrimage for Malaysians and worth a look. Mahsuri was supposedly wrongly accused of adultery in the 18th century and put to death. The Telaga Tujuh Falls near Pantai Kok are also worth trip away from the beach.Family attractions in Langkawi
The Underwater World Aquarium is always a family hit, with its diverse collection of more than 5,000 freshwater and marine species in more than 100 tanks. Cast your eyes over giant arapaimas, many species of shark, rays, giant groupers and stunningly colourful corals.
If your kids are a bit older, then several companies run tree top cable adventures, so you can get an entirely new perspective on the rainforest.

Day trips from Langkawi
Divers should take the one-hour boat trip to the marine paradise of Pulau Payar where you'll discover coral reef similar to the Indian Ocean, and some rare tropical fish including horse-eyed jack, moray eel, clown fish, 2m-long groupers, black-tipped reef shark and black-spotted puffer.
For less watery wildlife visit, Pulau Dayang Bunting. Here you'll see dozens of unusual beasts, among them lizards, mousedeer, macaque eagles and hornbills plus an abundance of flora and fauna including kelubi and cycas.

Restaurants in Langkawi
The cuisine is a combination of Malaysian, Indian and Chinese and rendang coconut curries are particularly popular. As you'd expect of a group of tropical islands, the seafood is to die for. Try giant prawns, soft shell crabs, succelent mussels and even shark.
While you may not find you favourite fast-food brands (McDonalds, KFC etc), there are American and Japanese-style restaurants in Kuah and all the hotels cater for international tastes.

Nightlife in Langkawi
A favourite with honeymooners, you find most holidaymakers enjoying little more than a romantic meal and a quiet drink in the evenings. That's not to say there isn't nightlife though. You'll find bars, cafes, cocktail lounges, live music, karaoke and nightclubs in Langkawi, but it's almost entirely centered around the hotel resorts.
This is not the place to go if you're after a few wild nights, but if you like a cold beer at a laid-back beach bar with the sound of the ocean in the background, Langkawi is blissful.

Shopping in Langkawi
Kuala Lumpar's a better there but is some good shopping to be had in Langkawi. The Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall, in Kuah, is a huge building with over 100 different stores where you'll find lots of great deals on typical duty-free goods like liquor, tobacco, perfume, leather goods, sports gear and more.

Sri Lanka

The 'Teardrop of India', is an island of extreme natural and cultural beauty and a popular place for a bit of winter sun. The people are warm and friendly, the food's very tasty and there's a wide range of accommodation from luxury resorts through to budget hostels.
Sri Lanka is home to no fewer than seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, so it's a destination where you can choose between exploring wonderful hill stations, cities and temples or simply kicking back on the island's stunning beaches.

Beaches in Sri Lanka
There are hundreds of miles of stunning sandy beaches dotted around the island and the swimming's good at any number of beaches along the south west coast. Negombo, around 25 miles north of the capital, Colombo, is a nice sandy beach sprinkled with ruins of churches and a fort. Ambalangoda is a sleepy place with a quiet beach, perfect for unwinding. The town's also famous for mask-carving.
If you enjoy your water sports, then there's excellent scuba diving, snorkelling and surfing at Hikkaduwa, which is also regarded by many as one of the country's prettiest beaches. The nearby reef is home to lots of interesting aquatic life, including turtles. Unawatuna's also very good for snorkelling and sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing can be enjoyed on the Bentota River.

Sightseeing in Sri Lanka
Kandy, the laid-back capital of the hill country, is definitely worth a visit. It's built around a peaceful lake and set in a picturesque bowl of hills where you'll find one of the country's most visited temples. Dalada Maligawa (The Temple Of The Tooth) houses Sri Lanka's most important relic - the sacred tooth of Buddha. The capital Colombo, a noisy, frenetic, modern city is also worth a short visit. It's a colourful place where you can really see what makes Sri Lanka tick.
Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are important ancient cities. Nuwara Eliya was the favourite hill station of the British Raj. A blend of Tudor and Georgian architecture, gabled roofs, immaculate lawns with rose bushes and moss-covered gravestones, its Hill Club is a wonderful place to soak up a bit of the quaint colonial atmosphere.

Family activities in Sri Lanka
For wildlife-loving families, there's lots to see and do in Sri Lanka. Animal life is everywhere and the island is also an important seasonal home to migrating birds, including flamingoes. Yala West is one of the few Sri Lankan national parks still open to tourists. It covers almost 1,000sq km of scrub, lagoons and rocky outcrops in the country's south east and is a particularly good place to see elephants.
There are also leopards, bears, deer, crocodiles, wild boar, monkeys, buffalo and wild peacocks. It's best to hire a jeep and driver in Tissamaharama and be in place near a waterhole at dawn or dusk.
Nearby Bundala National Park is Sri Lanka's best spot for birdwatching. Yala West is closed in September and usually part of August and October too. At Dehiwala Zoo, there's an elephant show every afternoon. There's also the famous Pinnawela elephant orphanage, where you can see the gorgeous baby elephants being fed and watered daily.

Day trips in Sri Lanka
If you tire of the beach then head inland for lots of interesting activities and sights. Hiking fans should try climbing Adam's Peak or walking across the strange silent plateau of Horton Plains near Nuwara Eliya to see the 700m (2,296ft) drop at World's End.
Sri Lanka's classical architecture, sculpture and painting is predominantly Buddhist and Stupas, domed Buddhist shrines, are found all over the countryside. There are several extravagantly large Buddha sculptures, notably at Aukana and Buduruvagala. The spectacular Sigiriya is an impregnable fortress, a monastic retreat, and a rock art gallery. Built in the fifth century to fend off a feared invasion, it is situated atop a 200m (656ft) high rock, with water gardens, fifth-century rock paintings of well-endowed damsels, a couple of enormous stone lion paws and tremendous views.

Eating out in Sri Lanka
Rice and curry are the main staples of the Sri Lankan diet and they're often accompanied by vegetables, meat and fish. Dishes can be extremely hot and spicy so if you're not sure what your stomach can withstand, ask for the heat to be turned down slightly. Indian curries such as thali (a whole vegetarian meal served in small dishes on a tray) delicately flavoured biriyani and kool, a boiled, fried and dried-in-the-sun vegetable combo, are also available.
Hoppers are a unique Sri Lankan snack, similar to a pancake, served with egg or honey and yoghurt. Many of the big resort hotels will have an international menu if you're missing some more familiar food and the seafood found in the coastal town restaurants have excellent fish.

Nightlife in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's not the best destination for those who enjoy a bit of quality nightlife. The cinema, where many English-language films are shown, is very popular and theatres hold regular musical and traditional dance performances in Colombo and Kandy.
Hikkaduwa, the island's most developed beach resort has a range of good restaurants and pleasant cafe-lined beaches and all in all, this is a place where a cocktail at sunset is about as raucous as it gets in the evening.

Shopping in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is known for its gems and Ratnapura is the centre of the trade. You definitely can get a bargain if you know what you're doing but you need to be very careful if you're new to the industry.
You'll see intricately carved masks all over the country, but Ambalangoda is the best place to buy them. In Colombo don't miss the pungent Pettah bazaar district where you can marvel at the riot of goods - fruit, vegetables, meat, gems, gold, silver, brass and tin junk. Kandy is an exciting place for shopping with souvenirs in wood, copper, silver, brass, ebony and bronze. You'll also find ceramics, lacquer work, handlooms, batiks, jewellery and rush and reed.

Cha Am

Cha Am is a pretty resort on the Gulf of Thailand, less than three hours from Bangkok. Despite being popular with Thais as one of the country's oldest beach resorts, the region is fairly under-developed but is slowly making an impression on British holidaymakers.
The beautiful white beach, said to be Thailand's longest, is Cha Am's main draw card, and is home to a wide variety of beachside restaurants.
There's a good selection of accommodation set back from the beach, with lots of options for people on a budget, like the three star Golden Sands Hotel and the Holiday Inn Resort, and also a number of luxury properties. It's worth considering combining a few days in the capital with a beach stay in Cha Am.

Beaches in Cha Am
The beach is sandy with warm gentle water and perfect for swimming. But it's not quite the picture postcard tropical paradise you might usually associate with Thailand.
The southern part of Cha Am beach is quieter than the northern part, particularly at weekends when busloads of Thais arrive from Bangkok.
Chao Samran Beach, 31 miles from Cha Am, used to be a royal favourite, with King Naresuan the Great and King Eka Thotsarot making frequent visits.

Sightseeing in Cha Am
There isn't a lot to see in the town itself, but most people come here for the beach, Cha Am's laid-back charm and its royal heritage in the region, as it was once the summer retreat of kings.
Film fans might enjoy a trip to Hua Hin's Railway Hotel (Hotel Sofitel Central), as this was one of the locations used in the filming of the TheKilling Fields.
The province is also well-known for its splendid parks, ancient temples and wonderful beaches and caves, such as Khao Luang Cave.

Eating in Cha Am
Seafood features heavily in Cha Am and it's easy to see why as its some of the freshest seafood you're ever likely to taste.
Jumbo shrimp, chili crab, fried fish and crab-fried rice are just some of the specialities you can look forward to.
Dine in open-air beach restaurants, the more traditional can be found dotted around the resort or perched on stilts over the water.

Nightlife in Cha Am
Cha Am isn't big on nightlife, but many of the bars and restaurants spill out onto the beach, where you can relax and enjoy a candlelit cocktail under the stars.
Hua Hin is only 15 miles away and you'll find a variety of nightlife choices on offer, including the buzzing Night Bazaar, or an evening kick-boxing tournament. Cha Am also has its own smaller night market.

Shopping in Cha Am
Many of the shops in Cha Am sell beautiful items made out of shells, including lamps, jewellery and ornaments.
Woven cloth, known as khomapha', is famous throughout the region and can be found in some of the shops around the resort. If you can't find it here, try Hua Hin.
Don't forget to haggle with shops and street vendors. The asking price will often come down by half, or less, depending on how good you are.

Family fun in Cha Am
Beach-based activities include jet skiing, a hair-raising ride on the banana boat or horse riding along the sand are favourites.
You'll also see people riding around on tricycles, which you can hire in town.
At the north end of Cha Am you'll find no more roads along the beach, just untouched sand dunes which are great for exploring.

Day trips in Cha Am
Sam Roi Yot National Park covers an area of more than 24,000 acres. Here you'll find limestone mountains, Thailand's largest freshwater marshes, caves, a huge variety of plants and trees, and a number of wild animals.
Snorkeling at Bang Saphan is a must for anyone who wants to see coral reefs and tropical fish.
Petchburi is a charming historic town, home to a number of interesting temples. King Rama IV also had a summer palace built here in the 1850s. Or visit the floating market at Damnoen Saduak, or the notorious Bridge on the River Kwai at Kanchanburi.

Goa

This laid back coastal jewel is India's smallest state and a former Portuguese colony, which in 2004 had more than 2 million tourists flocking to its shores.
This west coast region has long held cult status with hippies and backpackers alike and it isn't that difficult to see why. The palm-fringed shoreline is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world including Palolem (about 2km long) and you'll find resorts and villages with accommodation to suit even the most shoe-string of budgets.
If you enjoy the odd night out, you can dance on the beach until daybreak and Goa's cities provide plenty of sightseeing opportunities for the more culturally minded. Fans of Indian cuisine and seafood will be in heaven and it won't cost you the earth – far from it in fact.

Beaches in Goa
If you enjoy your big resorts then Calangute, Baga, Candolim and Colva are for you. You'll find lovely stretches of sand fully equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas and watersports. If you like things a little more low-key and rustic, then the beaches at Anjuna, Vagator, Chapor and Benaulim are still popular with backpackers.
The most peaceful resorts however are Arambol to the north and Palolem in the south. Palolem beach is backed by makeshift restaurants and 'hotels' (everything's packed up in the winter). Stay in a straw hut or tree-house, indulge in some yoga and enjoy a delicious curry on the sand.

Sightseeing in Goa
The Anjuna Flea Market draws visitors from all around the state and it's a great place to spend an evening.It's the place to pick up holiday souvenirs - jewellery, paintings and clothes – and enjoy the live music and food stalls.
State capital Panaji is home to some beautiful buildings, including many lovely churches, such as the 16th century Church of the Immaculate Conception. The former capital, Old Goa, was virtually abandoned when the government moved to Panaji, but it's now a UNESCO World Heritage site full of winding streets, stunning facades and impressive buildings.

Family attractions in Goa
If you're not a family who enjoy messing about in the waves and the odd bat and ball game on the beach, there's not a whole lot on offer. Some of the bigger hotels will have kids clubs but otherwise India's colourful enough to keep your kids entertained. A trip to any one of the local markets will definitely leave them wide-eyed.

Day trips from Goa
It's more of a two-day trip, about 10 hours travel east of Goa but Hampi is well worth the effort. A vast area of dilapidated temples and palaces more than 500 years old, the remains of this former capital are one of the must-sees in the whole of India. The World Heritage Vittala Temple Complex with its famous stone chariot, elegant temples and winding, picturesque river are worth exploring.
Alternatively visit one of Goa's four wildlife sanctuaries, particularly Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in the peaceful Western Ghats, home to the Dudhsagar waterfallsEating in Goa
Rice with fish curry, pork dishes and Khatkhate, a vegetable stew, are among the mouth watering specialities out here. Also worth a mention is xacuti (a meat dish), bangra (mackerel), sanna (rice cakes soaked in palm booze) and moira kela (plantains).
But if you fancy something a bit more western head to the big resort hotels and check out their international menus. Fast food restaurants are a little harder to find but there is a Dominos Pizza and Baskin Robbins.

Nightlife in Goa
In many places in Goa, hippies have these days been replaced by ravers, and this is particularly true of Anjuna. Full Moon and other beach parties are organized last minute and venues are often not revealed until a couple of days before the event, so keep your ear to the ground. Otherwise Shore Bar, Guru Bar, Sonic and the Paraiso are great to chill out. Tito's bar, on the road into Anjuna is one of the most famous nightclubs in Goa.
If you're the more cultured sort, the Kerkar Art Complex in Calangute hosts evenings of Indian music and dance. Many of the big hotels will also have their own traditional evening entertainment performances.

Shopping in Goa
The best bargains are to be found in the markets. The Anjuna Flea Market attracts vendors from all over the country with regional dress, handicrafts, beach wear, art works, sculptures, food, spices and woodwork. In many resorts you'll find government-subsidised shops selling brassware, terracotta goods, and hand-carved furniture. Goa's famous for its cashew nuts too.

Seychelles

Boasting palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters and protected, lush rainforests, these Indian Ocean islands sprinkled off the east coast of Africa are a fantastic year-round sun destination, perfect for couples and families.
For many years, the English and French tussled for control of the 115 islands that make up the picturesque Seychelles. And who can blame them? Nature lovers will be in their element – there are giant turtles like those found in the Galapagos - and the clear waters mean that you're sure to see loads of marine life from dolphins to barracuda, sharks and sting rays when you're snorkelling and diving.

Seychelles beaches
Most people who've been lucky enough to have visited more than one Seychelles island claim the beaches are better on Praslin than Mahe but frankly, they are all as pretty as a picture. Mahe's best-known and biggest beach is Beau Vallon but there are many to choose from.
Try secluded Port Launay and the magical area known as Fairyland around Anse Royale. If you're staying on Praslin don't miss its world-famous 6.5km Anse Lazio beach, part of the island's Gold Coast, or boulder-strewn Anse Source d'Argent. For a more off the beaten track experience, head to Petite Anse Kerlan in the north-west where Hollywood movie Castaway was filmed.

Seychelles sightseeing
Get a crash course in the local flora and fauna with a trip to the Natural Botanical Gardens in Mahe's capital Victoria, or stick to your favourite pursuits from home with a shopping spree around Selwyn-Clarke Market. Just because stalls are more likely to sell fresh fish than the latest fashions doesn't make it any less fun. A quick whiz around the National Museum of History will give you some information about historical Anglo-French bickering over the islands.
Get your David Attenborough hat on with a hike around one of the islands' many national parks – Morne Seychellois on Mahe, or Praslin's world-heritage site Vallee de Mai, a prehistoric forest full of coco de mer trees and their erotic-shaped nuts.

Family attractions in the Seychelles
The Seychelles has long been seen as a romantic beach holiday destination but that's not to say you can't take the kids too. The bigger hotels, which can be found clustered around the main beaches, such as Beau Vallon on Mahe and Anse Lazio on Praslin, have kids clubs and lots of facilities for little ones to make your life easier and their holiday fun.
If you've got the kids in tow, there are plenty of activities that they can enjoy such as paddling in the shallows and spotting bright stripy fish like Nemo nibbling away at the colourful coral. Dolphins can often be seen cavorting in the channels between islands, and you can take a glass-bottomed boat to enjoy the fish and coral without getting wet. Jungle walks can be a real adventure - in Praslin, look out for the rare black parrot.

Day trips from the Seychelles
Take a boat trip to one of the outer islands for a proper Robinson Crusoe experience. From Praslin, a 20-minute boat ride takes you to Curieuse, where you can see a unique colony of giant turtles. From Mahe, the place to visit is St Anne's Island, which sits in the protected St Anne Marine National Park.

Eating out in the Seychelles
Curry lovers and fish fans will be in seventh heaven. Tuna, snapper and other varieties are all freshly caught, and the Indian Ocean location means curry spices are popular. Plenty of coconuts mean mild, creamy sauces are on offer for korma lovers.
Creole cuisine - fish, rice, vegetables and exotic fruit - is tasty too. There are plenty of restaurants with international cuisine to choose from though, so if you want to stick to steak and chips, you can.

Seychelles nightlife
Kicking back with a rum and coconut cocktail or a bottle of local beer, Seybrew, and watching the sun set over the horizon is probably as lively as it gets outside capital Victoria, but frankly, after a relaxing day in the tropical sunshine you'll probably be feeling pretty chilled anyway.
Depending on which hotel you're staying in, you might enjoy some evening entertainment in the form of local dancing and singing - Moutia and Sega are old favourites - but nothing too strenuous. Those who fancy a flutter can head to one of the hotel casinos.

Seychelles shopping
Victoria's Selwyn-Clarke Market has the biggest selection of local crafts, such as batik clothing, paintings, pottery, woodwork, sarongs, silks and pre-packed local spices like cinnamon and vanilla which make for nice souvenirs for the family back home.
You can buy the famous coco de mer nut, but don't forget that you need an export licence to take it out of the country.

Kerala

The hustle and bustle in India, the land of a billion people, can feel a little overwhelming at times, but this small state at the south western tip of the country is a great place for an affordable, long-haul beach holiday.
Kick back, unwind, eat some fantastic Indian food and indulge in a spot of natural Ayurvedic healing. Like Goa, Kerala has gorgeous beaches, and towns and cities full of history. But unlike Goa, it boasts stunning backwaters, a vast and beautiful network of rivers, canals and lakes stretching far inland.

Kerala's beaches
The coastline is dotted with lovely beaches but one of the best is at Varkala, about 35km south of Kollam. The 1.5km long sweeping beach is backed by red stone cliffs which glow scarlet as the sun sets on the sea. The cliff top, reached by a winding stone staircase, has tons of cafes and bars where you can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat.
Further up the coast, Alappuzha Beach is also very popular. There's a 140-year-old pier and a small park nearby if the kids get bored.

Kerala sightseeing
No trip to Kerala is complete without a trip on the backwaters. Travelling along this huge network of waterways will give you a real insight into the local way of life, and it's also incredibly peaceful and relaxing.
Take in a small area on one of the passenger ferries, or hire a houseboat (known locally as a kettuvallam), complete with a skipper and chef, so you can drift as you please for two or three days. Elsewhere, be sure to check out the Chinese fishing nets, the markets, the Jewish quarter and the palace in Kochi.

Family attractions in Kerala
The whole family will enjoy a performance of the spectacular Keralan dance, Kathakali, where actors/dancers in flamboyant costumes with vividly painted faces re-enact stories from the Hindu epics, Mahabharata and Ramayana.
There are no words and the plays are told through exaggerated eye, hand and tongue movements. The stories can often last for eight or nine hours, but you'll also find much shorter performances of one or two hours, so the kids should be sufficiently entertained.

Day trips from Kerala
Try and get up into the Keralan hills (known as the Western Ghats), home to several wildlife sanctuaries. Periyar is the most popular in all of southern India and if you're lucky, there's the chance to spot elephants, tigers, bison, antelope, wild boar and many varieties of monkeys and birds. It can get cold and wet in the hills so bring some waterproof, warm clothing.

Eating out in Kerala
If you like Indian food, you'll be in heaven in Kerala. Dishes in the south are deliciously spicy, but the focus is more on taste than pure heat. The seafood is to die for, and at many coastal resorts you can see the catch of the day displayed on porcelain tables. Pick your favourite fish and see it whisked away for slow cooking in a tandoor oven.
If you're looking for a taste of home, you may struggle however, although the upmarket hotels will often have a western-style menu.

Kerala nightlife
Kerala's not the place for you if you like to party, so don't expect to dance the night away to the latest thumping beats. Check out a traditional Kathakali performance or try and catch a Bollywood movie during your stay. Don't worry about the language barrier as most Indian films are very visual.
Otherwise, while away the evening enjoying a quiet drink in your beachside bar, cafe, or restaurant or book yourself an early evening Ayurvedic massage at your hotel.

Kerala shopping
India's incredibly cheap wherever you travel and sandalwood carvings, textiles, bronzes, spices, tea, jewellery, leatherwork, masks and music are all great buys in Kerala.
All the major towns and cities have vibrant local bazaars which are an experience in themselves. Be sure to take in the sights, sounds and particularly smells of Kochi's spice market.

Adventurers drawn to Cambodia

After decades of unrest, Cambodia is coming into its own as a destination for travelers eager to embrace architecture, adventure and smiles.
Compared with its high profile neighbors, wartorn Vietnam and the idyllic paradise of Thailand, Cambodia tends to fly under the radar. But that does not mean this fascinating country has any less to offer.
After three decades of war, Cambodia is now at peace and attracting more and more tourists with the promise of Indiana Jones- or Tomb Raider-type adventures.
Undoubtedly Cambodia is a beautiful country, quite different from its neighbors.
For starters there are vast expanses of bright red earth house communities where the homes are built on stilts to protect residents from floods in the rainy season and the odd rogue snake, while at the same time providing shelter for livestock below.
The view feels more like something out of Africa than Asia with mango trees nestled along the sides of bumpy roads where smiling locals sell juicy slices of pineapples to weary passers-by.
Cambodia was ravaged during the war years and still has the highest number of unexploded land mines in the world. But with a vast expanse of magnificent horizons and some of the world's most breathtaking man-made structures, the horrific past is being replaced by the wonder of the country's rich cultural heritage.
The biggest attractions on the tourist trail are the temples of Angkor which are among the most incredible structures on Earth in spite of thousands of years of wear and tear and, more recently, clumsy tourist feet.

Situated near the sleepy town of Siem Reap, the temples were only rediscovered by the Western world in the 1860s although they still housed a wealthy working monastery.
The discovery generated a great deal of international interest in Cambodia, with well-known explorers swooping on the country to document their travels throughout the area. But in the last part of the last century, visiting Cambodia became difficult as the country was forced into conflict with neighbors.
With Cambodia and its relics now safe to visit following its recent past, tourism is becoming a booming industry.
And most are heading straight for Angkor. The temples of Angkor, capital of Cambodia's ancient Khmer empire, rival each other in size, detail and beauty, but Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure in the world, stands proud near the center of them all.
Angkor Wat is the best example today of man's devotions to the gods through its sheer size and intricate carvings. More than 3,000 individually carved "heavenly nymphs" adorn the structure while the high turrets of the temple all point west leading many to believe the monument was built as a tomb - the west symbolically points towards death.
A note to remember for visiting this temple is that it is lit at night between 7:30pm and 9pm so a visit at this time allows a brief escape from both the heat and the distracting tour bus crowds.
But in spite of Angkor Wat's size, it is by no means the best of the many monuments spreading throughout a thick forest.

Heading north from Siem Reap, you first come across Angkor Wat, then the walled city of Angkor Thom where stone faces of tranquil Buddhas stare serenely into the thick jungle.
To the east of the city is the mesmerizing temple of Ta Prohm intertwined in a jungle wilderness and Banteay Kdei that offers intricate stone carvings.
Restorations are underway in many of the structures, but the beauty of Ta Prohm is embellished by the way nature has reclaimed the temple with massive trees winding around the structure, breaking up walls as if they were made of sand.
Angkor Wat provides a stunning sight with its detail and beauty.
Like a giant octopus enveloping the temple, the tree trunks and roots - often more than 30 centimeters wide - wind through the crevices while birds chatter noisily in the tree tops above.
With temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, young local children run to tourists touting cold refreshments as well as a myriad of craft items such as flutes, bags, postcards and books.
While many parents have been lost in conflicts, maimed by land mines or even killed by poisonous snakes, the children still welcome visitors with wide smiles and fluent English greetings.
After the architecture, the hospitality in Cambodia is the most notable aspect of a visit there, as locals are quick to wave happily at foreign faces - making it a top destination for anyone seeking culture, beauty, kindness and an incredible adventure.

Koh Samui

This Thai island was once a favourite hideaway for backpackers, and despite lots of development in the last 20 years, it still retains much of it's sleepy, laid-back charm.
The beaches are to die for, there's fantastic nightlife, the locals are warm and friendly and there's a liberal scattering of ruins and temples. It's one of the world's top scuba diving spots and in terms of accommodation, you'll find everything from luxury five-star resorts to ramshackle beach huts which cost next to nothing. In short then, there's something for everyone.

Beaches around Koh Samui
You're spoilt for choice in terms of gorgeous sandy stretches. Hat Chaweng is the most popular beach as it's also nightlife central. The 7km long beach has good surf and is lined with everything from budget cafes to sophisticated bars should you fancy a drink and a snack.
The second busiest beach is Hat Lamai in the south. It's actually a better beach with safer swimming waters. For more peace and quiet, head to Maenam where you'll find many luxury resorts too. For an even more secluded session in the sun, try the peaceful coves of Mae Nam and Bo Phut.

Sightseeing around Koh Samui
The one major sight of note is the Big Buddha on the north coast. This huge gold statue is worth the trip for a couple of snaps and it's not far from some lovely beaches.
Another sight, or rather spectacle, which shouldn't be missed is an evening of Thai Boxing. They normally consist of around five or six fights, and bouts take place regularly on the island drawing both local and western spectators.

Family attractions in Koh Samui
There's lots to keep the kids amused including a snake farm near Ban Phang Ka, the Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo and Treasure Island Mini-Golf near Chaweng Beach.
The Ang Thong Marine National Park is very popular with families. It's an archipelago consisting of 42 islands covered in stunning limestone mountains. There are lakes, nature trails and beautiful secluded beaches where you can enjoy a picnic or try a bit of kayaking.

Day trips from Koh Samui
Day trips are possible to both of Koh Samui's neighbouring smaller islands, Koh Pha-Ngan and Koh Tao. The former has beautiful beaches and the Pang Waterfall National Park. Those looking to tap into their spiritual side can also visit the Wat Kow Tahm temple and meditation complex.
Koh Tao is renowned for its incredible dive sites which have unusual rock and coral formations teeming with the resident turtles, whale sharks and spectacular reef fish.

Restaurants in Koh Samui
Virtually every taste is catered for on the island. You'll find cheap and delicious Thai food which is pungent and spicy with heaps of garlic, chillies, fish sauce and shrimp paste. Lime juice, lemon grass and coriander are characteristic flavours along with peanuts, tamarind juice, ginger and coconut milk.
International restaurants are everywhere and you'll find all your favourite fast-food outlets such as McDonalds and KFC. The Thais love a bit of Premiership football too, so you'll find English and Irish pubs where you can enjoy a good pint of Guinness while watching the footie.

Nightlife in Koh Samui
Koh Samui's nightlife rates among the best in Thailand. All over the island, you'll find pubs, clubs, cabaret, karaoke, live music and discos which carry on until the early hours of the morning.
Chaweng is where you'll find most of the action but once a month you can join the mass exodus by ferry to the neighbouring island of Koh Pha-Ngan for the legendary Full Moon parties.

Shopping in Koh Samui
Although there are markets and shops in most towns on the island, Chaweng and Nathon (where the ferries arrive) are the best areas for a shopping frenzy. You'll find goods from all over Thailand.
Thai silk is a great buy and there's also the option of getting your very own tailored clothes. If you're not bothered about made-to-measure gear, don't worry, because designer fake clothing and accessories are everywhere.

Maldives

This ultimate tropical paradise, with a thousand picture-perfect islands is lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and attracts a diverse crowd from couples and families to celebrities and jet-setters.
State-of-the-art spas and simple yet elegant accommodation, often set upon stilts on the sand are just a few delights this Indian Ocean archipelago offers.
Scuba divers will be in heaven and there are endless near-deserted coves for die-hard beach bums. You will have to splash out, but it could easily be the best money you've ever spent on a holiday.

Beaches in the Maldives
In a land with thousands of the world's best beaches, it's pretty hard to pick out one or two of the best. They're all amazing.
However, the beaches at the more upmarket Cocoa Island resort lie directly beside the Guraidhoo channel, one of the best spots for snorkelling in the Maldives. If you want to check out the aquatic life, just walk down the steps from your villa and straight into the crystal-clear waters.

Sightseeing in the Maldives
The only sights of any real note are in Male. Check out the Islamic Centre and the Grand Mosque, with its huge gold dome. There's also the superb grounds of the Sultan Park, which surrounds the three-storey museum (all that's left of the Sultan's Palace), housing antiques and interesting relics.
For a real taste of life in the Maldives, pay a visit to one of the city's many bustling markets. The huge fish market is especially good for a bit of people-watching. You may recognise some of the catch on offer from one of your diving excursions in one of the world-class diving sites in the area.

Family activities in the Maldives
This is a place for kicking back and doing little, so the main pursuits for active families will involve playing on the beach and snorkelling. There are plenty of watersports in most resorts and slightly older kids will enjoy learning to sail or windsurf. Many hotels have other sports on offer such as tennis or horse riding.

Day trips in the Maldives
Diving, fishing and snorkelling trips run from most hotels. Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes chose to explore several of the thousand islands on a yacht, so why not splash out and do the same. This is a great way to live out your Robinson Crusoe fantasies. Alternatively, spend a day on some of the islands inhabited by locals for a completely different view of life in paradise.

Eating out in the Maldives
The location of the Maldives in the middle of the Indian Ocean, means that the cuisine has Middle Eastern, Indian, Chinese and African influences. The seafood is out of this world and if you've been out fishing for the day, they'll normally cook your catch back at the resort.
Otherwise, fish curries and soups are very popular and on most menus. If that doesn't sound like your cup of tea, all the big hotels cater for international tastes and can serve more familiar food. If you are feeling adventurous though, try local specialities such as bis haluvaa, a creamy egg side dish and lonumirus, a coconut sauce that goes with fruit dishes.

Nightlife in the Maldives
There isn't much of a nightlife in the Maldives. Aside from enjoying a cocktail or an ice-cold beer as you watch the sun go down, this is a place to relax and unwind. If you enjoy a bit of clubbing, then maybe this destination isn't for you. The best you'll find is the odd bit of live music in some of the hotels at the weekends.

Shopping in the Maldives
Aside from hotel gift shops, you have to visit Male if you want to purchase souvenirs. T-shirts, sarongs, finely woven mats known as kunaa and lacquer ornaments are all good buys. Be sure to stay away from coral and seashell trinkets as it's illegal to take them through customs.

Thailand

Thailand has become firmly established as a popular, long-haul destination for sun-lovers. International standard hotels are well developed in the country's coastal resorts, with up-and-coming hotspots like Trang and Ko Lanta rivalling old favourites such as Koh Samui and Phuket.

Away from the beaches, ancient temples, rainforests, elephant treks, river rafting and bustling markets provide a wealth of attractions. Combine your beach stay with a few days in vibrant Bangkok and you'll enjoy the best of both worlds.

Beaches in Thailand
If you're only intending to stay in and around Bangkok, you can still visit some good beaches for a overnight stay. Nearby Pattaya and Hua Hin are good, family-friendly resorts. Pattaya's beaches, such as Pattaya Beach and Jomtien, are probably the best in the area.
Beach life is superior in the south – on the west coast side bordering the green Andaman Seas lie Phuket, Krabi and Ko Phi Phi. All have excellent beaches and hotels. Pattaya is perhaps the most cosmopolitan place. On the east coast is the Gulf of Thailand where the beach huts of Koh Samui are slowly being replaced by more upmarket properties.
Island-hopping is a must, if you have time. Alternatively, a cruise around the unspoilt Similan Islands is paradise for divers. Up and coming hotspots include Trang, Koh Lanta, Khao Lak and Koh Tao.

Sightseeing around Thailand
First time visitors will inevitably start their journey in Bangkok. The city's notoriously congested roads and streets may appear bewildering and frustrating initially. One way to avoid the problem is by travelling via the Skytrain.
Book a tour to see the must-see sights: the spectacular Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace – allow at least a day to explore these and try to visit the National Museum and National Gallery.
To the south and on the islands, the natural attractions and namely the giant limestone cliffs around the Andaman coast will take your breath away.
For history and culture, the hill tribe centres of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in the Golden Triangle of the north offer a well-worn tourist trail. The region is renowned for its temples - the oldest wat dates back to 1296. Expect jungle trekking, river rafting and elephant rides.

Family attractions in Thailand
In Bangkok, explore the 'klongs' or canals that are home to the famous floating markets, and you'll get a chance to appreciate how the locals live. Also visit Dream World theme park, where there are rollercoasters, a haunted mansion, bumper cars and tons of attractions, Dusit Zoo, the Snake Farm or Leoland Water Park, a huge rooftop water park set on top of Central City Bangna shopping mall on the eastern outskirts of the city.
In the coastal resorts, family-friendly hotels cater well to children of all ages. Boat trips, island hopping, snorkelling and jungle treks will also appeal to older kids and teens. In Phuket, visit Phuket FantaSea – a theme park based around Thai culture.

Day trips in Thailand
The evocative Bridge on the River Kwai is a popular day trip from Bangkok, along with the stunning UNESCO-protected temples that lie in the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Or book a tour to the Chatuchak weekend market consisting of 15,000 stalls spread over 35 acres of land. You can buy almost anything you need here.
Throughout the country, there are several animal-friendly elephant camps that can arrange treks.
Island-hopping offers endless possibilities. For instance, the Phi Phi islands are between a one and three hour journey from Phuket, Krabi and Ao Nang beach.

Eating out in Thailand
Thai cuisine is better and more varied than the restaurant fare traditionally found in the UK. The north is renowned for its spicy jungle curries, tempered by the refreshing fruits of the south. Fresh seafood on the islands is excellent. Expect limes, coconut juice, chillies, lemon grass, garlic, noodles, soups and rice dishes.

Nightlife in Thailand
Bangkok has a thumping nightlife scene ranging from sophisticated to seedy, depending on what you want. The Patpong area is legendary for its tasteless bars and clubs but is still a tourist magnet. The Khao San Road is a mecca for those on a budget, offering numerous cafes and laid-back bars.
If you want something more upmarket, head for the Vertigo Bar on the 60th floor of the Banyan Tree Hotel, Spasso bar at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel and the Bamboo Bar, at the Oriental Hotel.
Pattaya has all the nightlife you'd expect from a beach resort. Go to Koh Phangan for its monthly Full Moon parties which draw around 20,000 revellers. Koh Samui hosts a similar event.

Shopping in Thailand
The country offers superb shopping, especially fake designer goods. There are weekend, floating and night markets in almost every town and resort. As well as the fake watches, bags and clothes, you can pick up DVDs, CDs, jewellery, arts and crafts.
One of the most popular buys is a tailor-made suit or dress - typically silk - usually available within 24 hours. Get recommendations for the best tailors from fellow holidaymakers. Gems are another good purchase, but buy from reputable places. Never give in when taxi drivers try to persuade you to visit a 'special discount store'.

Phuket

Thailand's largest island attracts one million tourists a year, thanks to its idyllic sandy beaches, luxurious hotels, indulgent spas, top-class golf courses, vibrant nightlife, and some of the best diving in the world.
The most developed resort is Patong – perhaps becoming seedy and overdeveloped – while quieter resorts include Karon and Kata.

Beaches on Phuket
The west coast on the Andaman Sea boasts long sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and some of Thailand's finest hotels. The most popular and developed beach is Patong, offering excellent watersports and dive sites. Three miles south lies less crowded Karon beach.
If you're seeking peace, head to the north west coast for Mai Khao, Nai Yang, Nai Thon and Kamala. Giant marine turtles lay their eggs between October and February on Mai Khao.
To the south, Nai Harn is one of the prettiest beaches, close to the Cape Promthep beauty spot, which attracts busloads of tourists for scenic sunsets.Cape Panwa has hosted celebs such as Pierce Brosnan and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Sightseeing on Phuket
Soak up Phuket's history and spirituality by visiting its tranquil Buddhist temples and shrines. One of the biggest and most beautiful temples is Wat Chalong, while one of the more unusual sights is the "half-buried Buddha" at the Wat Phra Thong temple in Thalang. Legend has it that those who try to dig it up will die. Thalang also has a museum, featuring displays about Phuket folklore.
Many temples and shrines are found in Phuket City, and you will see plenty of activity during Chinese New Year and the Phuket Vegetarian Festival.

Family attractions on Phuket
More adventurous families can explore rainforests on an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) – or on the back of an elephant and teens can enjoy bungy-jumping, paintballing, bowling and rock-climbing.
The Thai Village just north of Phuket City has a Thai cultural show featuring elephants, Thai boxing and traditional dancing. There's also the Phuket Butterfly Farm and Aquarium; the Sea Shell Museum, Rawai Beach; Phuket Zoo near Chalong to see crocodiles, monkeys and camels.

Day trips on Phuket
There are two national parks – you will find a gibbon rehabilitation project in the Phra Taew National Park, which also has two waterfalls; and you can follow the Thachatchai nature trail in the Sirinath National Park.
The blue waters surrounding Phuket offer everything from deep sea fishing to sea kayaking. Some of the most popular day trips are cruises around the mangroves and lagoons of Phang Nga Bay; or a speedboat to the tropical paradise Phi Phi island, where the 'The Beach' was part filmed.

Eating on Phuket
If you're wary of local cuisine, there's various fast food and western restaurants - like KFC and Starbucks - in resorts such as Patong. Kids will also relish the chance to dine at the Horror House theme restaurant. Italian, Portuguese, Japanese and Korean food are available.
But it would be a shame to miss out on Thai dishes. Rice and noodles are the staples while Phuket offers some of the best seafood in the country. You should try papaya salad, green curry and tomato soup. The national dish is Phat Thai, rice noodles with bean curd, vegetables and dried shrimp.
Many hotels also offer Thai cookery classes if you fancy a day away from the beach.

Nightlife on Phuket
Patong is Phuket's liveliest, brashest, loudest resort, where you'll find a chaotic mix of Western and Thai entertainment. Clubs blare out disco, garage and techno like any mainstream resort in Europe, but for a bit of local colour, opt for an evening dinner cruise on a junk.
One of the most famous shows is the Phuket Simon Ladyboy Cabaret – a transvestite troupe - just south of Patong. The bright lights of the strip along Soi Bangla offer sometimes sleazy go-go bars, and the Paradise Hotel area is home to the gay scene.
The Phuket FantaSea near Hat Kamala is a Las Vegas-style complex of attractions featuring shows with trapeze acts, pyrotechnics, comedy and dance.

Shopping on Phuket
Phuket offers everything from bustling local street markets to Western department stores. You'll be able to buy silks, traditional handicrafts, jewellery, antiques, pearls and ceramics.
Some of the more unusual local specialities include pewterware and nielloware – where a black metal alloy is used with silver to create beautiful jewellery.
Phuket City stocks Thai cotton and silk clothes, while at its daily market you can buy herbs and spices. In Patong, tailors will whizz up a suit or dress for far less than you would pay in the UK, and you can buy souvenirs at the resort's night market. For an air-conditioned browse, try the Ocean Plaza mall.

Malaysia

Summary
With its superb beaches, tasty cuisine and miles of breathtaking scenery, Malaysia is a winning destination. Tourists can choose from any number of resorts in Malaysian Borneo in the east or Peninsular Malaysia in the west .
The lively island of Penang is a popular spot as is the capital Kuala Lumpur (often referred to as KL), home to the awesome Petronas Towers.
Other top attractions include the rain forest, the oldest on the planet or Malaysia's many nature reserves. Malaysia's about the same size as Norway and almost three quarters are covered in trees and forests. Watersports, snorkelling and diving are all on offer and shopping in the vast outdoor markets can be fun. A more unusual sport is spelunking (cave exploration) in Gunung Mulu National Park, which houses the longest cave passage in Southeast Asia.

Beaches in Malaysia
Many of Malaysia's gorgeous beaches are privately owned, either by resorts or by individuals, which can be quite a shame. However on Langkawi Island, head for Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah or Datai beach. Many of the beaches will be close to tropical wildlife and have superb facilities on offer too. Port Dickson is the nearest beach resort to KL and after a two hour journey, offers visitors sandy beaches and warm waters.
Head to Tioman Island in the south-east for great underwater fun; it's got crystal clear waters and is close to any number of offshore reefs. If you're up for a grand trek, head for Kampung Juara, about 6km from the island's main village, Kampung Telek. For those on a budget, the Perhentian Islands in the north-east are a must. You'll find plenty of cheap accommodation along with top diving sites and lovely beaches. Sun-worshippers on Borneo can head for Golden and Turtle Beaches on the west coast or look out for one of Sarawak's natural parks along the coast.

Sightseeing around Malaysia
KL is home to the famous 88-storey Petronas Towers, which tower over the vibrant city below. And it marries its high-rise splendour with a thriving Chinatown, a Little India, bustling markets and any number of beautiful temples. Its National Museum, filled with art, culture and historical treasures, is also worth a visit.
If you're a nature lover, you'll have to pick out which of the country's many national parks to visit. These include the world-famous Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary, found in the Sepilok Forest Reserve, after a 20-minute drive from Sabah. It will give you a chance to meet orangutans being rehabilitated and sent back into the forest, and enjoy its numerous trails.
Other highlights include the Rantau Abang Turtle Hatchery found at Rantau Abang, about 60km south of KualaTerengganu. It's been created as an attempt to shore up the numbers of Giant Leatherback Turtles and from May to September you'll be able to spot these enormous 2.5m creatures laying their eggs.
Other highlights include boat cruises, staying in a traditional longhouse in the Batai Ai National Park, climbing Mt Kinabalu or heading to the Endau Rompin State Park to camp, go rafting, fish or swim.

Family attractions in Malaysia
Malaysia's child-friendly and hassle-free for families. The kids will love KL's many theme parks, which include Sunway Lagoon, Desa Water Park, Butterfly Farm and Cosmo's World. For amazing scenery head up Penang hill on a train and enjoy the views.
Any trips to the rainforests will be fun, and you can also take the kids to Underwater World in Langkawi. It's got 5,000 types of marine species on show. Other Langkawi attractions include a crocodile farm, a snake sanctuary and a Sky Bridge which offers superb views 700 metres above sea level.

Day trips in Malaysia
If you're based in KL, head for the Blue Mosque, it's just a 40-minute train ride away. With the world's tallest minarets, it's named after its gorgeous aluminium dome and overlooks a landscaped garden which features nine Islamic art galleries.
Batu Caves are near KL as well. Visitors throng to climb up the 272 steps which lead to a rock-hewn temple with ornate Hindu shrines and the Ramayana Cave with its walls which are covered by depictions of Indian legends. There's also Carey Island which is known for its music, traditional dances and wooden masks.
Visitors on Langkawi can head off to numerous unspoilt islands for lakes, waterfalls and jungles or catch a cable car ride up Mount Mat Cincang for superb views.

Eating out in Malaysia
There's a whole world of choice from Chinese to Indian and Eurasian and Malay dishes. It's quite acceptable to eat the street food - just make sure it's properly cooked - or head for one of the many restaurants. You'll find Malaysian food's spicy although often moderated with coconut milk, noodles and rice.
Typical dishes will include satay (skewers of beef or chicken with a delicious spicy peanut sauce) and sambal, a hot sauce used with seafood, chicken or beef dishes.

Nightlife in Malaysia
KL's karaoke scene is hugely popular with locals and tourists alike. Every kind of musical taste from techno and indie to garage to trance will be catered for and venues range from top of the range to the slightly seedy.
Head to Sultan Ismail, Jalan Ampang and Bukit Bintang - known as the Golden Triangle - for the most famous clubs. You'll also find venues in Hartamas and Bangsar and most hotels have their own lounge bars and in-house clubs.

Shopping in Malaysia
Shoppers will love KL for its bustling open-air markets (usually open day and night) and its superb shopping malls. Mall fans will love the enormous Berjaya Times Square which has more than 1000 shops including the Body Shop, Debenhams and Levi's.
There's also the Central Market for arts and crafts, Petaling Street in Chinatown for T-shirts and toys and Suria KLCC for designer wear.
Shopping junkies should remember that a countrywide sales carnival is held in August and September or take advantage of the duty free zones in parts of KL and Penang and Langkawi. A whole range of goods from alcohol, phones, cameras and cosmetics are on offer. Aside from KL's markets, most other towns have night markets with a huge range of goods on offer.