Malaysia

This is where I first started to dive when I was a newly certified open water diver. The country itself is a beautiful mix of different cultures from all over Asia and many other parts of the world. Combining the best of quite a few worlds. In food, culture, AND diving. You will find most things you will want to see as a diver in a warm relaxing atmosphere and more importantly water. You can do most dives here with just your open water certificate, but if you want to see the truly great sites, advanced certification is the way to go!

Some impressions under water

A quick summary

The Perenthian

2 Islands. very close, but very different.

The Perenthian Islands is a group of 2 main islands in the north eastern part of the country. You will travel by boat from Besut ideally where you have to choose between one of the 2 islands: Pulau Besar or Pulau Kecil. Besar is a bit bigger and you will find more middle and high-end accomodation while Kecil is more backpacker oriented suited best for low to middle budget travellers. They are seperated by a straight and transfer from one to the other is quite easy.

Check it out here!

Tioman Island

A larger island with a few beautiful villages dotted along the coast.

Tioman itself is quite large and easy to get to via a port like Mersing in south east Malaysia. Once you enter the docks and purchase your ticket you will be asked to choose the village you would prefer to be dropped off since only a few of them are actually connected via roads. I chose Salang all the way in the north and it felt like the end of the world. A small but sufficient village with all you need: Food, accomodation and most of all: Great Diving!

Check it out here!

Sipadan

Perhaps the number 1 location for scuba diving in the world!

While Sipadan is a bit difficult to get to, the quality of diving will most certainly make it worthwhile! When visiting this beautiful island, you will not just explore Sipadan, but also Mabul and Kapalai. Both top notch locations in their own right.

The only regret you might have after visiting here is that you didn't have more time to spend!

Check it out here!

Langkawi Island

A beautiful tourist escape from busy Kuala Lumpur

Langkawi is an island, a lot of Malay people visit on their weekends and holidays. The direct flight from Kuala Lumpur and even a connection from Thailand make this the perfect getaway! While scuba diving might not be the best you've ever experienced, it's still very worthwhile to get out on a boat for a day or two and explore the southern islands of the Andaman Sea.

Check it out here!