Travelsavvywanderer
“Malaysia or Thailand? Which one should you choose for your next holiday? These are common questions for travelers planning their trips. Both countries are fantastic destinations, and having visited both multiple times, I always return with great experiences.
If I had to choose, which one would I visit next? Let’s explore some points to help you decide!
Before we begin, remember to get your e-sim if you’re traveling to Malaysia or Thailand soon. While shopping malls have good connectivity, it’s helpful to have mobile data for finding rides or looking up places.
Both Thailand and Malaysia have made a strong comeback from the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, Thailand welcomed 24.48 million international travelers, bringing in about $29.6 million. Meanwhile, Malaysia saw 26 million international tourist arrivals from January to November 2023.
Currency-wise:
1 $ = 34.90 Thai Baht (THB)
1 $ = 4.59 Malaysia Ringgit (MYR)
Best Time to Visit
Thailand’s best season is from November to early April when the weather is pleasant for beach outings and exploring heritage sites. From April onwards, it gets quite hot, and the rainy season starts in June.
Malaysia has a tropical monsoon climate, making December to April the ideal time to visit. Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rains throughout the year. January and February are particularly good months despite the frequent rain.
Accommodation
Thailand offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels in cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok to beach bungalows on islands like Phuket and Koh Samui. Mid-range hotel prices range from 500-1000 THB per night.
In Malaysia, you’ll find affordable options in cities like Kuala Lumpur, with guesthouse rates typically ranging from 80-200 MYR per night. Tourist spots like Penang and Langkawi might be a bit pricier, but budget-friendly places are still available.
Food
Malaysia is known for its diverse and delicious food, offering Indian, Chinese, Malay, and Western cuisine. Affordable eats can be found at hawker stalls and local eateries, costing just a few ringgits per meal. For example, a plate of char kway teow might cost around 6-8 MYR.
Thailand’s street food is world-famous and very affordable, with dishes like pad Thai and green curry costing around 40-60 THB from street vendors. Seafood is also a must-try in Thailand.
Transportation
Malaysia has efficient and cost-effective public transportation. In Kuala Lumpur, you can take the LRT or buses for about 2-5 MYR per ride. Taxis are also reasonably priced, starting at around 3 MYR. Long-distance buses and trains provide economical ways to explore, like the overnight bus from Kuala Lumpur to Penang for 32-50 MYR.
Thailand’s transportation includes tuk-tuks, songthaews, and motorbike taxis, with short rides costing about 20-40 THB. The BTS and MRT in Bangkok are affordable options, with fares ranging from 16-42 THB. Long-distance travel options like buses and trains are also budget-friendly, with a second-class sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai costing around 800-1,200 THB.
Tourist Attractions
Both countries offer a wide range of affordable attractions. Malaysia has great natural and cultural sites, such as Sunway Lagoon and Genting Highlands. Thailand is famous for its beaches, cities, and animal/nature attractions, including various elephant sanctuaries.
Shopping
Malaysia is a shopper’s paradise with bustling markets and dynamic street shopping. Places like Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur and Jonker Street in Melaka offer great deals. Large malls like Bukit Bintang and Times Square KL are also popular.
Thailand offers a similar shopping experience with massive malls like Terminal 21 in Bangkok. Night markets and floating markets are unique to Thailand, offering affordable clothing, handicrafts, and local products.
Conclusion
Is Malaysia cheaper than Thailand? It depends on various factors. Both countries are fantastic destinations for budget travelers, solo adventurers, and nature lovers. Whether exploring Kuala Lumpur’s busy streets or relaxing on Phuket’s beaches, your Southeast Asian trip can be budget-friendly without sacrificing quality experiences.
Ultimately, your choice should align with your interests and the type of adventure you seek. The cultural richness of Malaysia or the magical landscapes of Thailand—both are wonderful options for your next holiday.
Embrace your journey and make the most of your travels in 2024!”
