Hi,

I currently work in Saudi Arabia, and expect to be finished with my assignment at the end of November. Originally, my wife and I were looking at retiring in Phuket, but... I've had a bit of a rethink on that one.

What we would like to do, is come and stay there for a month, and look at long term rental's with an option to buy, or, if we find something quickly, to buy.

As I have no experience of Malaysia,
1) What would be the equivalent area to look at, with beaches, diving, 2 bedroom condo's, access to shopping malls etc ?
2) What is the weather like during December or January ?
3) Which bank is recommended to open an account with
4) Will we require transport ?
5) Are we required to have medicals before being granted residence ?
6) Are we requried to exit/reenter at regular intervals ?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks