"Even though Malaysia Is A Small Country, Here Is A List Of Hidden Gems That You Must Visit!"

1. Gem Island, Terrenganu

Starting with the name of the island, you’re probably thinking are there gems all over this island? Well, not really but you’re close to that. First of all, this island itself is a gem because it is not a popular place. Gem Island, known as “Pulau Gemiä” is a privately owned island off the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia with white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, beautiful coral reefs, fascinating marine life and so much more that you can witness.

However, Gem Island is not a touristy place as compared to famous neighbouring islands such as Pulau Redang or Lang Tengah. So if you’re a person who hates the crowd during a getaway, this is the last thing that you need to worry about if you get here. The reason for that is because it provides exclusive experiences depending on which type of getaway you want to be holding. For instance, you and your group of best friends want to go on a private trip to somewhere far but not sure of where to go. Well, Gem Island maybe your preferred place as all of you can go for snorkelling and capture beautiful moments while being there. Also, since it is a private beach, you and your friends can make a bunch of noise without being afraid of people giving you that dirty look. Since it is the only resort on this island, it is pretty straight forward when it comes to booking for your accommodation as well as activities.

2. Sasaran, Kuala Selangor

Before you head to Sasaran Beach, make sure you book in advance for a spot as you know during the holidays just about any places gets fully booked quickly. Sasaran Beach is dubbed as Malaysia’s version of Salar de Uyuni, a widespread salt flat in Bolivia. But the difference is that you will not see any salt lumps here. However, Sasaran beach is not a beach either as it is just a large area with lots of sand and seawater. Yes, which means there is no building and no toilet because when the sun rises, you won’t be able to see the sand anymore.

However, it depends on your luck on the visiting day to get lovely photos because if the wind is blowing strong, you cannot get a clear reflection of yourself to produce good images. The weather must be good for the sky to look blue, and the wind has to stay calm for the water to stay chill. If you and your friends don’t know how to take good photos, do not worry as they provide photo making service to take all those Instagram-worthy pictures. Besides that, they as well provided food like cakes, bread and even childhood snacks (may vary). However, the journey may be a little rocky so get ready to be wet!

3. Tiga Island (Pulau Tiga)

Based on a reality TV series of Survivor, fans may know that the contestants went to Pulau Tiga, also known as Survivor Island. This island has wondrous flora and fauna, beaches and marine life which provides exciting recreational activities for travellers to enjoy.

If you go for hiking, there will be different levels of trails, walk along by the sandy beaches and even snorkelling in the emerald clear waters and also sightseeing of the beautiful coral reefs which are famous in this island. (equipment are available and can be rent from the resort). There is also a mud bath which provides a very beneficial treatment, as your body soaks up the minerals which helps to relieve aches and pains while leaving a soothing effect that it has on the skin which makes you feel like you just attended a fancy health spa!

4) Templer Park Rainforest Retreat

You’ve worked your ass off this year and the holidays are coming up, so you thought of bringing your family to a getaway where it is not crowded but just the sound of nature. Well, Templer Park is just the right place for you as you get to escape to a hilltop paradise where you will surround yourself by 360-degree views of the lush Kanching Rainforest Reserve. This place is only a 30 minutes drive from the centre of Kuala Lumpur (KL), the peaceful and tranquil natural environment makes for the perfect place to relax, unwind, and have your family deserve this de-stress from the hustle and bustle of the hectic daily life.

This retreat is private access, in a gated and guarded community. Do not worry as there will be ample parking spaces available. However, you might get friendly ‘visitors’ like cheeky monkeys, monitor lizards, squirrels, colourful tropical birds, wildfowl, giant butterflies, dragonflies, bats, and fireflies. So, they might occasionally drop by during your stay at the retreat!