I’m a fan of Southeast Asia for a number of reasons. It’s lively city culture, collections of temples and natural sites, delicious Asian cuisines, and of course the sandy beaches. With the subzero temperature we’re getting these couple of months, all I can think of are the white sandy stretch on the coasts of Malaysia. Malaysia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia. Today we’ll look at the top 5 Beaches in Malaysia, specially selected for us by the experts from Malaysia Experience.

1. TANJUNG RHU BEACH – LANGKAWI
   Malay for Casuarinas Cape, the Tanjung Rhu beach is known for its abundance of casuarinas trees stretching along the shoreline. Located on the northernmost point of Langkawi Island, the Tanjung Rhu have a long clean, white sandy beach, and it is one of the most popular beach in Langkawi.
   Apart from the long beach itself, you can go island-hopping among the small offshore islands around Tanjung Rhu beach. Charter a boat out to explore the caves, mangrove swamps, limestone formations and many exotic creatures on these small islands. During a low tide, you can even walk across from Tanjung Rhu beach to the nearby islands of Pulau Pasir and Pulau Gasing on a sandy stretch.
2. PANTAI TELUK BELANGA (EMERALD BAY) – PANGKOR LAUT
   Known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Emerald Bay is a top pick for independent travelers and travel consultants. The beach is set in a cove with soft golden sand and has an amazing rainforest as its back drop. The Pantai Teluk Belandga is private for the guests of Pangkor Laut, but it is open to the public for a fee of RM 80 (Malaysian Ringgit). The calm emerald green waters and white sand of the Emerald Bay is a great place to soak up the sun in peace.
3. KAMPUNG JUARA BEACH – TIOMAN ISLAND
   For travelers who are looking for a quiet day in the sun, Juara beach is the place to be. Isolated on the east coast of Tioman Island, you have to trek through the jungle to reach this sandy paradise.  If you’re a fan of activities out in the sea, then look no further, the Kampung Juara beach is fantastic for snorkeling, diving or fishing in its crystal clear sea. Also sailing, kayaking or even boat fishing is available around the Island.
   For nature explorers, jungle trekking on the island is also a popular activity among regular travelers. You can trek through the forest, rock climbing up the island peaks and admire the many beautiful waterfalls along the way.
4. TELUK DALAM BEACH – REDANG ISLAND
   Located at a traditional Malaysian fishing village in Redang Island, the Teluk Dalam beach has an amazing 250 meter long white soft sandy stretch. The clear water has made it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling and diving in Malaysia. While there, you can experience the traditional fisherman lifestyle and taste the local seafood delicacies and dig for some hand-made souvenirs.
5. LONG BEACH – KECIL ISLAND – PERHENTIAN ISLANDS.
   Long Beach is soft sandy getaway on the Perhentian Islands, aka, the place to stop. Not overcrowded with tourists, this isolated island brings you back to the basics, without roads or electricity. On the island you can see white corals at Coray bay in clear waters on one side, and bury your feel in the velvety soft sand in Long Beach on the other. It’s clear water and abundant sea creatures makes it a snorkel heaven, where you might find sea turtles, fish or even swim along sharks (not dangerous unless provoked).

Reaching for your bikinis? Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen before you take off to your perfect beach holiday in Malaysia.

There has been a lot of news reports about spending your holidays in England.. whilst also living in England. Sounds a bit boring doesn’t it? I don’t know how keen any of us are on getting in a car, driving a few hours and declaring this new county our holiday hotspot. Plus - IT’S GETTING COLD, and it’s not going to be any warmer come Christmas time!So, looking at the options, there are a number of ways we can budget our holidays abroad to save some money:

No. 1 - The British pound is still one of the strongest currencies in the world:

Even if we are experiencing a financial crisis - the world isn’t far behind us. In many countries, it is more affordable for you to enjoy dinner and drinks out when compared with the local pub or on the high street.. So why not enjoy an exotic meal on the beach this Christmas?

Tip - remember to avoid the tourist traps and avoid the ‘luxury’ spots on your holiday - You’ll enjoy authentic food at a great price as well as friendly service from people just as interested in you as you are in them.

No. 2 - Pick the slower transportation options:

The beauty of travel is the slow pace you can take it at - and as a Londoner myself I can appreciate the beauty of relaxation on my holiday. So, take trains instead of planes, walk instead of taxi’s and you’ll see more, as well as appreciate the journey instead of packed in a car while the kids listen to their favourite Britney Spears track in the back seats.

No. 3 - If you’re going to use a travel agent, use one who KNOWS the country:

Finally, the travel agent in charge of your holiday should be able to give you these tips and more - seek advice from people who know the country, which sights & sounds are worth the money and finally have a passion for the country and its people - it’ll get you excited about your trip and make this holiday investment worth it.

A popular destination with warmth, culture and affordable accommodation is Morocco - Check out the Best of Morocco travel site for advice.