Ready to hop on a plane again?
With travel restrictions eased in most countries, international travel is finally no longer a dream after two long years. Time to blow off the dust on your passport and plan your first post-pandemic adventure! If you've missed travelling, this one's for you. We've compiled a list of nearby destinations you can head to if you're ready to get bitten by the travel bug again. All these Southeast Asia destinations are just a plane ride away, the question is - are you ready to rediscover the world?
13 cheap Southeast Asia getaway destinations for Malaysians
1. Singapore
Photo Credit: @joriselee
The Little Red Dot is an easy getaway from Malaysia since it's just an hour-long flight away from Kuala Lumpur. Most people have the misconception that Singapore is just another compact city filled with skyscrapers, but there's a lot more to explore there, from exciting theme parks to charming neighbourhoods, museums and galleries, world-class family-friendly attractions, and more.
- Flight duration from KL: 1 hour & 10 mins
2. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is not just a tropical paradise of clear glistening water and white coconut trees. Think exquisite archaic monuments, sunsets setting the clouds on fire, cosy cafes, vibrant beach clubs, and breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains and steep cliffs. Whether you're looking to plan a romantic couples' getaway or a fun family adventure, there'll be something for you in Bali.
- Flight duration from KL: 3 hours
3. Yogyakarta, Indonesia
If you're more of a culture and nature person, Yogyakarta may be a better pick for you than Bali. With pine tree forests, active volcanoes, mysterious caves, and stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites, Yogyakarta is the cultural soul of Java, and truly a city like no other. You'll also get the opportunity to explore two of Indonesia's most important archaeological sites - the majestic Borobudur and Prambanan!
- Flight duration from KL: 2 hours & 30 mins
4. Bangkok, Thailand
We bet many Malaysians have missed the cheap yet indulgent Thai massages, creamy tom yum, and friendly vibe of Bangkok. Thankfully, you can now revisit the shopping and food heaven of Southeast Asia, especially since Thailand has eased its COVID-19 travel restrictions, making it much easier to travel there now. Make sure you don't forget to treat yourself to a bowl of mama tom yum noodles at Jeh O Chula, scream your lungs out at Dream World, and end your day with an indulgent onsen or Thai massage.
- Flight duration from KL: 2 hours
5. Khao Kho, Thailand
If Bangkok isn't your cup of tea and you'd much prefer somewhere more chill, we've got the perfect gem of a destination for you. Located just 5-hours north of Bangkok by car (perfect if you love road trips), Khao Kho is known as the mysterious town above the clouds. This enchanting town has lots to offer from picturesque mountains to beautiful waterfalls, cute cafes, and vast sunflower fields. Another closer option is Khao Yai, that's only a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok! Both destinations are great getaway spots from Bangkok and easily reachable when you rent a car (from RM86/day) or book a tour on Klook.
- Flight duration from KL: 2 hours (to Bangkok)
6. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Fancy a short getaway to the home of Angkor Wat? While most people travel to Siem Reap for its gorgeous ancient temples, there's more to this laid-back city than that. Siem Reap also has a vibrant nightlife as well as a handful of unique activities and attractions that you shouldn't miss out on, including visiting the nearby Kompong Phluk Floating Village, getting a taste of local Khmer cuisine, and catching a mesmerizing Cambodian Circus Show.
- Flight duration from KL: 2 hours
7. Hanoi, Vietnam
There's so much to explore in Vietnam with its diverse collection of cities and towns, each with a charm of its own. The country's capital, Hanoi is the perfect city to start if you've never been to Vietnam. While it can be overwhelming with a frenzy of motorbikes and street vendors, all that is part of the city's unique personality. Besides, Hanoi is a great launchpad for day trips or road trip adventures to nearby destinations such as the beautiful Halong Bay, Ba Be, Ha Giang, and Sa Pa.
- Flight duration from KL: 3.5 hours
8. Da Nang, Vietnam
Da Nang is a largely underrated destination that houses sunny beaches, marble mountains, and spectacular sunset views. It's also home to the dreamy Ba Na Hills, a mountain-top resort complex that's accessible only by cable car. Stroll through the cobblestone streets in the French village, get an adrenaline rush at the massive indoor amusement park, and feel at the top of the world as you walk across the 500-foot Golden Bridge (also known affectionately as the "Hand Bridge").
- Flight duration from KL: 2.5 hours
9. Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is one of the most atmospheric cities in Vietnam (it's located less than an hour's drive from Da Nang), filled with well-preserved historical architecture, quaint museums, and charming old streets. You can cycle through lush paddy fields, cruise down the river at sunset, and spend hours exploring the UNESCO old town that's lined with cute coffee houses and small boutiques! Want to learn more about the city by indulging in its sights and food? Book a Bike and Bite tour on Klook which will bring you through the Hoi An neighbourhood, rice field villages, and ends with a gourmet food tour at 5 tasting spots!
10. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket has always been a popular beach destination for Malaysians. With turquoise waters, jungle-clad mountains, as well as a charming old town with beautiful heritage architecture and a vibrant food scene, there's much to explore and ample of sun, sand, and fun. Plan a hassle-free getaway by booking your hotel, island hopping tours, and tickets to attractions such as Aquaria Phuket, the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, and more on Klook!
- Flight duration from KL: 1 hour & 15 mins
11. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Located in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is often overshadowed by other more popular destinations in Thailand such as Bangkok and Phuket but we believe it's a hidden gem that's lots of fun to explore. From beautiful temples to an eco elephant sanctuary (where you can feed and bathe these gentle giants), breathtaking nature spots, and hipster cafes, Chiang Mai will definitely fuel your wanderlust.
- Flight duration from KL: 2 hours & 45 mins
12. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Photo Credit: @chuchumom_nazzi
Photo Credits: @alghiealonzo
Want to avoid PCR tests, confusing travel guidelines, and expensive flight tickets but still wish to travel across the ocean? Sabah is one of our favourite local destinations that's perfect for a spontaneous weekend getaway. Explore the charming city of Kota Kinabalu, take a road trip up Kundasang for some sweater weather, fresh air, and great scenery, and hop on a speedboat for an island hopping day in the beautiful Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park!
- Flight duration from KL: 2 hours & 30 minutes
13. Pulau Redang, Malaysia
Photo Credits: @mhdashff
Why travel far when there's beauty close to home? Since the monsoon season in Malaysia is over, the islands on the East Coast have finally reopened with calm seas and sunny skies. ☀️ Pulau Redang is definitely a crowd favourite when it comes to islands in Malaysia thanks to its family-friendly snorkelling spots, over 20 dive sites, and a variety of hotels for travellers of all budgets! Enjoy extra 10% off your Redang hotel and activities with code <BEACHPLS10>!
- Flight duration from KL: 1 hour (to Kuala Terengganu)
14. Pulau Rawa, Malaysia
Photo Credits: @ojaboom
Photo Credit: @doreenlivetotravel
If you'd prefer more privacy and exclusivity, Pulau Rawa may be the pulau up your alley. Located off the east coast of Johor under the wings of the Johor Marine Park, Pulau Rawa is a pristine slice of paradise lovingly known as the Maldives of Johor. Owned by the family of the Johor Sultan, Pulau Rawa is sensitively developed, well-protected, and offers unspoiled beauty for its guests. There are literally only two resorts on the island, so you can expect peace and tranquility while you're here! Plan a hassle-free trip by booking an all-inclusive 3D2N package at Rawa Island Resort on Klook, package comes inclusive of meals, welcome drinks, and roundtrip boat transfers from Mersing Jetty.
- Distance from KL: 5-hour drive
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