Ranked among Asia's top holiday destinations, Malaysia is a dynamic vacation hotspot for the masses. Whether one is heading to Malaysia's top cities and islands or planning to travel around the country, first-time visitors have much to learn about making a holiday in this part of the world a success. From choosing the right hotels to travelling during the right time of the year, here's how to plan the ultimate Malaysian vacation and make the most of the trip.

When planning a getaway in Malaysia, it's important to remember that the temperatures in the country remain at a steady 30° degrees Celsius all year long. Although this is good news for those hailing from colder climates, it does not mean the monsoon season does not bring torrential downpours and rough seas that can make a vacation a daunting prospect. This is why it's crucial to avoid visiting Malaysia between September and February as these are the wettest months of the year owing to the northeast monsoon.

Travellers planning a Malaysian holiday must also narrow down the regions of the country they wish to visit and the final destination list must be made according to the biggest holiday goals and top reasons for heading to Malaysia in the first place. Those who prefer to stick to the beach paradises of Malaysia can restrict their visit to the Perhentian Islands, Langkawi and Malacca while those with an interest in spending their Malaysian getaway shopping will find no better base than Kuala Lumpur. Whether one chooses to include Penang or Georgetown into the travel itinerary is also a matter of the vacation budget and the time available on holiday.

After the destination list has been compiled, the next step is to reserve accommodation in each city or area. When choosing hotels in Kuala Lumpur city centre or elsewhere on the island, it's crucial to pick conveniently located rests that are within close range of an area's main landmarks and attractions. So whether one chooses Travelodge City Centre or any other resort in Malaysia, the property should at least be within close range of local transport hubs even if it isn't a stone's throw away from popular highlights.

Malaysia is one of Asia's most vibrant holiday hotspots, and there are so many exciting tours and experiences that vacationers can sign up for during the planning stage or simply take part in after arriving in Malaysia. Travellers heading to the beach capitals of Malaysia such as Kota Kinabalu, Langkawi and Malacca must sign up for snorkelling and scuba diving adventures while jet skiing and kayaking are other water-bound activities accessible in Malaysia. When it comes to excursions, all tourists must tour the iconic Batu Caves, which are easily accessible from KL.

When wining and dining in Malaysia, it's important to remember that tipping is unnecessary and optional unless one happens to be seated at a restaurant where service charges are not included in the bill. But when grabbing breakfast at Kopitiams and other eateries around the country, tipping is not essential.

Those who are spending most of their time in KL will find that the city is served by a state-of-the-art MRT network or subway train service. Elsewhere in Malaysia, there are bus services, long-distance taxis and ferries to choose from. The latter is the most convenient means of reaching Malaysian islands although domestic flights to most of the popular tourist towns and islands in the country are also available. For a more immersive and scenic travel experience, consider taking a leisurely train journey, such as the popular Eastern & Oriental Express, which offers a picturesque ride through the stunning landscapes of Malaysia.