7. Read your newspaper’s travel section

The Saturday travel sections in most newspapers are still a good source for travel news, tips and last minute travel deals, departing from your city. Read them religiously.

8. Do some negotiating of your own.

Just ask for a deal or a better price! This will usually work if you are dealing with a hotel or car rental company directly. It may also work with some travel agents.

9. Book last minute

When looking for a last minute travel deal, start shopping around about 6 weeks prior to your departure to get a good idea for prices and availability. Narrow down where you want to go and compare some prices. About 3 weeks prior to departure is probably your best time to book. When you notice packages begin to sell out, you want to book before you miss out on that travel deal. The prices only go so low and sometimes sell out before they really drop in price.

10. Book early

Some of best deals may be had booking early. Most tour operators and cruise companies offer discounts for early booking. If there is a specific date you want to travel and or you have a specific resort or destination in mind, you are better off to book early and secure your vacation than to risk waiting for a last minute travel deal that may or may not happen.

Keep in mind cheaper is not always better. If you save a few hundred dollars by adding lots of stops to your flight or staying in a hotel you are not happy with, it won't be worth it. Save some money but don't compromise too much with what you really want and need.

Sipadan Island Located on north-eastern part of Borneo Island, Sipadan is one of world's best dive spots. White sandy beaches borders this 12ha island. The island was formed from a undersea volcano and is raised 650meters from sea floor. Sipadan is famous for its reef wall, rare reef creatures and regular appearance of sea turtles. If you are a diver, this is one place that you would not want to miss.

East Coast Islands On east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, an abundance of idyllic white sandy beaches. To escape hustle and bustle of city, hop over to east coast, put on a sarong, grab yourself a coconut, relax and enjoy pounding of waves. Out in sea, islands such as Perhentian, Tioman and Redang are famous for their dive spots and family getaway.

Cameron Highlands This 1800 meters above sea level region is a popular getaway from tropical heat for Malaysians and tourist alike. Cameron Highlands was discovered by a British surveyor named William Cameron in 1885. This highlands resembles England as old English inns, chalets and bungalows still exists today. Attraction in Cameron Highlands includes mountain and jungle hikings, tea plantations, fruits and vegetable farms, flower nurseries and its people. Cameron Highlands has two golf courses if you are game.

Proboscis Monkeys Living exclusively in Borneo island, proboscis monkeys have largest nose amongst all primates. Reaching up to 17.5cm long, reason for elongated nose is unknown. Another distinctive feature of this unique creature is its pot belly. The proboscis monkey is an endangered species and is listed under IUCN Red List. Visiting these creatures in its natural habitat is well worth journey.