Some questions about Malaysia
 

We are planning a 2 week trip to Malaysia in late August, early September. You've all convinced me to do it on my own without having a tour group, and I thank you for that. Now, will you help with my research a bit? We are a 50-65 years old, not looking for 5* American resorts, but not looking for hostel's either. B&B are our favorite in Europe, but we don't mind spending more for location or something really unique.

Here's where I need the help: After KL and Mellaca, We are thinking of two nights in Taman Negara. It's about a four hour drive, I think. How much will a private taxi cost us to get to the jetty? Is there a better way for a group of four to travel? Where should we stay?

then we would like a little luxury by the beach. In Aug/Sept I feel the weather will be better on the East coast, and I'm looking at Kuantan. Will we find a long distance taxi from Taman Nagara? If so, how long and how much will it cost? Or is there a better way?

We are open to other suggestions for jungle and beach, given our ages, length of trip and weather considerations.

thanks so much.

I have never been to Taman Negara as I'm more a city gal. I have used this mob to book Tanjung Jara Resort (in state of Terengganu) http://www.pinganchorage.com.my/home.htm and they may be able to help. Also their website has a range of accommodation options. Taxis are generally at reasonable rates but limos are more expensive.
I googled and got this plus more http://www.kuala-lumpur.ws/transportation/
http://www.onelimo.com/Kuala_Lumpur_...re_Service.htm Note I have never used any of these transfer services.

If you're game to drive then you'll find it much more flexible. I organise my rental from overseas and use Avis. I think you will enjoy the east coast if you're into villages and rural Malaysia. Drive from Kuantan all the way up to Kota Bahru. There are many beautiful islands off the coast.

It takes about 3-4 hrs taxi ride from KL to Kuala Tembeling. But the trick is: You have to get there by noon. After 2pm, it's hard to get a boat ride into Taman Negara's Kuala Tahan gateway. You should be paying about RM200-300 air con, one way, KL-KTembeling. You should know that local taxis are rather small and if you have huge luggage, I reckon you may need two taxis for a group of four. It's a long journey. Cramping tight inside a taxi can be excruciating.

If for any reason you miss the last boat ride, don't fret. There are private vans which cater for latecomers and they usually make themselves available near KTembeling jetty. The van ride normally takes 2-3 hrs, through rutted countryside road, to get to Kuala Tahan.

Once you get to Kuala Tahan, the place is slewed with smallholder chalets and tours can be easily booked from floating restaurants by the riverbank. For better comfort, look up http://www.mutiarahotels.com/mutiara...ara/index.html. August is busy season. I suggest you book in advance.

For a good idea of what to expect in Taman Negara, look up http://malaysiaupclose.wordpress.com...-taman-negara/. You should know that tours in Taman Negara are "conveyor tourism" type and you'll be herded around in big groups. If you're not fit, especially during hikes under hot tropical sun, you may be left behind. If you can afford it, please hire a good English speaking private guide.

For a bit of beach luxury in Kuantan,try ...
- Hyatt Regency http://kuantan.regency.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp
- Club Med in Cherating, about 1 hrs drive north Kuantan. My favorite.

August is a good time to scour East cost.

I've stayed at the Hyatt in Kuantan before - a lovely property, and not expensive.

I would think you could find someone with a van to drive you from Taman Nagara to Kuantan.

You might want toconsider the Redang Islands where there are 2-3 4 star hotels but food is 3 star. You can take a 45 minute flight from the city airport for $175+/- and the 2 larger hotels will pick you up. It is quiet with nice beaches and some of the best snorkeling in Malaysia with healthy coral based upon last visit in May 2006.