Wheels, Wildlife & Wine: Exploring Malaysia & Western Australia
Ali, our Destination Manager for Australasia & Southeast Asia, hosted First Class Holidays’ first journey Down Under via Malaysia. With support from Malaysia Airlines, Tourism Western Australia and many of our trusted suppliers, this was shaping up to be one of the standout trips of 2025. Discover the group’s adventures and the incredible experiences First Class Holidays can include in Malaysia and Western Australia itineraries.
When Southeast Asia launched in 2024, it quickly became apparent just how close Malaysia is to Perth. With a flight time of only six hours from Kuala Lumpur to Perth, Australia feels far more accessible for first-time visitors and those who traditionally holiday in Southeast Asia.
Kuala Lumpur: Culture, Cuisine & City Life
On arrival in Kuala Lumpur, the group transferred to Hotel Stripes, a First Class Holidays favourite thanks to its unbeatable location and rooftop pool overlooking the Petronas Towers. A full day of exploration followed, including a guided ‘Forgotten Trails’ walking tour through Kampung Baru, tasting local kuih, visiting bustling markets and discovering historic landmarks such as Masjid Jamek and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
Highlights included lunch at the Orbit Revolving Restaurant, a visit to the Batu Caves and an unforgettable evening Vespa tour through Chinatown, Little India and KL’s vibrant night markets.
Penang: Heritage & History
After a short flight, the journey continued to Penang and George Town. The city’s rich heritage came alive through visits to Khoo Kongsi clan house and Wat Chayamangkalaram, home to one of the world’s longest reclining Buddha statues.
The group stayed at the iconic Eastern & Oriental Hotel, where heritage charm, generous suites and exceptional hospitality elevated the experience. A visit to Orang Utan Island highlighted conservation efforts, while optional island tours and cycling routes showcased Penang beyond the city.
Perth: Urban Energy & Coastal Living
Just six hours from Kuala Lumpur, Perth welcomed the group with smooth arrivals and a relaxed Western Australian vibe. Staying at the InterContinental Perth City Centre, exploration included a street art and small bar walking tour, uncovering hidden laneways and cocktail spots.
An unforgettable wildlife encounter followed in Rockingham, swimming with wild bottlenose dolphins under the guidance of marine biologists.
Margaret River: Wine, Nature & Aboriginal Culture
Travelling south, the group visited Busselton Jetty before settling into the Margaret River region. Experiences went beyond wine tasting, beginning with an Aboriginal cultural tour at Ngilgi Cave with Koomal Dreaming.
A coastal walk along the Cape to Cape Track, lunch at Leeuwin Estate and wine tasting at Vasse Felix showcased the region’s diversity. Accommodation at Smiths Beach Resort offered ocean views and relaxed luxury, perfectly placed for sunset beach walks.
Fremantle & Rottnest Island
In Fremantle, Victorian architecture, historic sites and the famous Fremantle Prison provided insight into Western Australia’s past. An overnight stay on Rottnest Island followed, where the group encountered quokkas, explored the island by e-bike and enjoyed glamping-style accommodation overlooking Pinky’s Beach.
A visit to the newly opened Lodge Wadjemup offered a glimpse into Rottnest Island’s evolving accommodation scene.
Expert-Led Travel with First Class Holidays
With decades of destination expertise, First Class Holidays curates journeys that combine iconic highlights with authentic local experiences. From Malaysia’s vibrant cities to Western Australia’s wildlife, wine regions and coastline, this journey highlights just how seamlessly these destinations work together.
