Adventure in Thailand and Malaysia
 

Hi

I drove my bike from Switzerland to SE Asia, did Laos and Myanmar and am in South Thailand entering Malaysia soon. Drove through some serious stuff getting here, and am here now and constantly surrounded by tourists everywhere I go.
Any nice routes recommended in Southeren Thailand (on Ko Lanta now) and Malaysia, have anouther 2-4 weeks. Off Road and away from Tourists preferred...

Also, thinking of heading to Lombok to recharge after I drop my bike in KL to ship it home. Anyone know if that's any good to do lots of nothing on?

cheers
Max
justride.ch

Just remember (as you've probably noticed) it's currently rainy season on the east coast of Malaysia so those islands usually shut down till around Feb. West coast should be a bit better weather-wise. Also always best to start riding early in the mornings as just too hot in the afternoons.

I'd avoid the major highways in Malaysia as they are pretty dull, better to go down the middle of the country via Cameron Highlands (very busy at weekends though but worth a look if you can see past the overdone, 'mock-Tudor' theme of most of the buildings ;) ) and the national parks. Watch out for our beloved Malaysian drivers, they love to change lanes on a whim although they're nothing like India/Pak drivers ;)

Penang - the old town around Chulia street has some cool architecture and worth a look.

Langkawi - tax free island so booze etc pretty cheap compared to the rest of Malaysia. Nice chilled out island, stay around Pantai Cenang.

If going to Lombok, I'd personally avoid Gili Trawangan, the other two islands would be a better bet if you're looking to avoid the toursty places. You can also hike the volcano on Lombok (Gunung Rinjani), 3 days/2 nights, around $200-250 I think. Tough going but some great scenery.They provide the camping gear/food/water so you just carry a day sack and your clothing etc.

Give me a shout if you need any KL info

Groovy, thanks for that. Volcano is a definite must. Fairly expensive though.
No India or Pak drivers for me I'm afraid. I took the old mans route (I'm 25 though) through China. China was by far the worst in my experience when it comes to their driving. They don't not see you like in other places, but they aim for you... You are cheaper dead than handicapped...

Melakka - a city a bit south of KL is also an interesting historical city. Nice old arcitechture and several museums that shows the historical importance of the city.

Lombok - I presume you will stay in the Senggigi area. A looong (many kms) stretch of beach with some resorts, hotels and guesthouses. Veeery laidback - not much nightlife and party. But quite nice if you like it quiet and slow.
Tours to islands can be arranged. I think they have tours all the way to Komodo islands on the west tip of Flores.

I would like to make it to komodo. Want to bring me one of those dragons home...
Laid back and slow is how I like it, before heading back to fast and aggresive Zurich..

Cheers
Max

From Lanta you can head to Pak Bara and take the Trang coastal road, its not overly interesting but theres plenty of deserted beaches.

I thought I had a comprehensive map of Trang attractions, but it doesnt seem so complete these days. There is a few days there.

You can try checking off all the waterfalls and caves, Some of them are in organised parks, the others are off-road through rubber plantations. Theres also a hermit temple in the north in the mountains i haven't found.

You will end up in my direction, Hat Yai, if you avoid the town centre you can go months without seeing another westerner. From there - exit the south through Betong in Yala province into Malaysia. The Betong road is quite interesting, and Betong, one of the most unique places in the South.

Have you been to Phang-Nga ? - Heres something i wrote on another site

If you look on the GT-R site you will see some good off road routes in Malaysia.

If you want some company for a ride at the weekend then drop me a PM.

Oh excellent thanks. I'll create a route based on your input.
I've read your GT Rider post a few days ago, that view looks amazing.
Unfortunately I'll have to be in Malaysia by the 1. Dec. as our Visa and Bike Import docs will run out. I'll see what we can get done before though.

Cheers
Max