Malaysia
Hitchhiking Malaysia: Penang, Cameron Highlands and a visa surprise
Malaysia is an easy country for hitchhiking, with a catch: motorbikes require helmets. I went from Penang to the Cameron Highlands to Kuala Lumpur, and learned a lesson about visas on the last night.
Crossing from Thailand
I hitchhiked from the south of Thailand to Malaysia. In Malaysia you need a helmet to ride a motorbike, so as a hitchhiker with no helmet I could only take rides in cars and trucks.
Penang
Penang is busy and touristy. I found a quiet spice garden away from the crowds and spent time there instead. It is also known for street food, so it is worth a day or two.
Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands is a cool hill region with tea plantations, strawberry farms and jungle. I met a driver who joined me for a day, visited strawberry farms and went to the tea fields. I also picked tea leaves and dried them on a hostel roof. Bring a jacket, because nights are cool.
Hitchhiking tips from Malaysia
Keep your sign short, stand where cars can stop safely and smile. A funny hat helped me get rides. Two travellers I met were nervous, so I taught them: our first ride took five minutes. Always trust your instincts and refuse any ride that feels wrong.
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur has good food, rooftop bars and many tourists. For me it was a place to rest before the flight to Vietnam.
The visa surprise
The night before my flight I learned that Vietnam had cancelled visa on arrival for Europeans four days earlier. Travellers around me had been refused entry and flown back. I could not get an e-visa in time, so I bought a ticket to Bali instead and returned to Vietnam later. Always check official visa rules in the days before you fly, not only when you plan the trip.
Frequently asked questions
Is hitchhiking in Malaysia possible?
Yes, I got rides easily in cars and trucks. Motorbike rides are difficult because helmets are required.
What is there to do in Cameron Highlands?
Visit tea plantations, strawberry farms and jungle trails, and enjoy the cooler weather.
Why check visa rules just before a flight?
Rules can change quickly. I learned that Vietnam had cancelled visa on arrival for Europeans just days before my flight.