Join us as Lisa takes you on an unforgettable journey through Australia and Malaysia!
At Newell’s, we love sharing real travel experiences, and Lisa’s adventure is packed with inspiration from exploring Australia’s iconic landscapes and vibrant cities to discovering the rich culture, flavours, and beauty of Malaysia. Follow along as she brings these incredible destinations to life and gathers first-hand tips to help you plan your own dream getaway.
An Unforgettable Journey
“I’ve just returned from an amazing trip to Malaysia and Western Australia with First Class Holidays, and I can honestly say it exceeded all expectations. This journey showed me just how easy and rewarding it is to combine these two incredible destinations. From Malaysia’s vibrant culture and food to Western Australia’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, the whole experience was seamless, diverse, and unforgettable. Flying with Malaysian Airlines from London Heathrow, my adventure began smoothly with a comfortable journey from Cornwall via Paddington.
Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur & Penang
My Malaysian adventure commenced in Kuala Lumpur, where I explored the city’s cultural and architectural landmarks. A guided walking tour introduced me to contrasting cityscapes, from the iconic Petronas Towers to the traditional neighbourhood of Kampung Baru. Lunch at the Orbit Revolving Restaurant provided panoramic views and delicious cuisine, followed by a visit to the Batu Caves and the ascent of its 272 steps a truly memorable experience of Malaysia’s spiritual heritage.
In Penang, I visited cultural and religious highlights including Wat Chayamangkalaram with its impressive reclining Buddha, and the serene Dhammikarama Burmese Temple. The ornate Khoo Kongsi Clan House offered insight into Penang’s multicultural heritage, and a visit to Orangutan Island at Bukit Merah allowed me to see conservation efforts in action. The highlight of Malaysia was an evening Vespa foodie tour, combining culinary discovery with adventure and a unique way to experience the local food culture. Accommodation in Malaysia was exceptional, with a stay at the historic Eastern & Oriental Hotel in George Town, where timeless British colonial elegance meets modern comfort.
Western Australia – Perth & Surrounds
My Western Australia itinerary began in Perth with a guided walking tour of the city, highlighting vibrant street art and creative culture. From there, I travelled to Rockingham for a once-in-a-lifetime experience swimming with wild dolphins in their natural habitat an exhilarating and unforgettable encounter.
Next, I visited Busselton and its famous timber-piled jetty, the longest in the Southern Hemisphere. Riding the historic Busselton Jetty Train along its full length offered expansive coastal views, while the Underwater Observatory provided a fascinating glimpse into the region’s marine life. Accommodation in Perth at the InterContinental Hotel offered luxury, comfort, and a perfect city-centre location.
Margaret River – Wine, Caves & Culture
Continuing into the Margaret River region, I explored Ngilgi Cave, combining natural beauty with Aboriginal storytelling and didgeridoo performance, which provided insights into the Wadandi people’s traditions. Margaret River’s world-class wineries were a gastronomic highlight, with lunch and wine pairings at Leeuwin Estate and Vasse Felix offering expertly crafted wines alongside high-quality local cuisine.
Rottnest Island – Wildlife & Adventure
The final stage of my journey included a nocturnal wildlife tour spotting kangaroos and other native species, a visit to Fremantle Prison for a glimpse into Western Australia’s colonial history, and a glamping stay on Rottnest Island. E-biking around the island’s scenic landscapes and capturing the iconic quokka selfie were perfect ways to conclude this unforgettable trip. Accommodation at Smiths Beach Resort provided the ultimate beachside retreat, overlooking pristine sands and sparkling waters.
Reflections on an Incredible Journey
This trip has truly been the best I have ever taken. Western Australia, in particular, left a lasting impression with its wildlife encounters, world-class wine, breath-taking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Combining Malaysia’s vibrant cities and heritage with Western Australia’s natural beauty proved an extraordinary adventure that I would highly recommend to any traveller.”
Ready to plan your own adventure? Contact Lisa at Newell’s Travel St Austell to start your journey to Malaysia and Western Australia today!

