We all need a change of scenery every once in a while but not all of us can afford to spend a fortune. Check out our budget weekend getaway ideas in Malaysia!
Foodie fiesta: Penang
Head over to Penang where you can indulge yourself with a smorgasbord of food and experience its colorful heritage. You can drop by Bazaar Chowrasta where you can stock up on traditional pickles and snacks. Next up is the street food, but with so many options to choose from you may end up feeling, spoilt for choice! We suggest you try the Oyster Omelet (Oh Chien), Char Koay Teow, Pasembor and Cendol when you’re there.
After all that wonderful food, you can then burn off the calories by taking a leisurely stroll around the island. Walk along the streets around George Town to have a look at refurbished colonial shop houses, street art or do some shopping for quirky souvenirs.
There are plenty of budget accommodations priced between RM30 – RM100 per night at George Town. Just take your pick of the many backpacker hostels, guesthouses or boutique hotels.
Fun in the sun: Redang Island
Located on the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, this island is famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters that make it perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, there are tons of other activities you can do like kayaking, turtle feeding or simply enjoy a day hanging out at the beach!
To keep this trip under a budget, book your accommodation at least 3 months from your arrival date and opt for the smaller resorts. You can get on a 3 days 2 nights (3D2N) package to Redang Island for about RM350 inclusive of accommodation, ferry transfer and meals. You’ll have to add around RM10 – RM20 if you’re looking to rent snorkeling equipment.w
Tip: The best time to visit Redang Island is from April to September as the island will be affected by the monsoon season towards the end of the year.
For some peace and quiet: Perhentian Island (Besar)
If you want to enjoy some quiet time, Perhentian Island Besar is the ideal getaway. The island is known to be calmer and more subdued than its livelier neighbor, Perhentian Island Kecil.
Here, a 3D2N package complete with accommodation, boat transfer and snorkeling boat trip will cost you about RM380 but the price varies according to the season. However, you will need to prepare some extra cash for food and renting snorkeling equipment. We recommend you also bring your own snacks and light food such as instant noodles and granola bars as food on the island can be pretty pricey.
And not just food, remember to pack sufficient sun-screen lotion, after-sun lotion and other personal care necessities as most of the products sold on the island are double (sometimes more) than what you would pay for on the mainland.
So there you have it. You can definitely enjoy a getaway without causing a major dent to your bank account! If you want more ideas, check out the Ideal Getaways To Spend Your Weekend For Under RM500.
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I want to go back to Penang! I loved the food there (though cendol, not so much). Will make sure to go when it;s cooler though. It was summer when I went, and it was sooo hot!
Penang is always warm because they are surrounded by sea. Try Rojak and CKT, they are staples of Penang.
Hi! Thanks for sharing the information. It would be very helpful for my coming trip. May i know do can i get Minivan+ Boat package transfer to Koh Lipe from Hat Yai?