Need a change of scenery but don’t want to spend a lot of money to do so? Here are places you can go for a quick getaway even if you’re on a budget!

Penang

For a good combination of sun, sea and plenty of good food, you can’t go wrong with Penang. You must try the Cendol, Nasi Kandar and Penang Assam Laksa when you are in Penang. If you have more time and space in your tummy, venture to the Gurney Drive Hawker Center, Long Beach Foodcourt and the New Lane Hawker Stalls.

If you’re also a fan of art, you will enjoy the various street art located at Armenian Street in Georgetown. You may also consider visiting Penang during the annual Georgetown Arts Festival which is usually held during mid-year. To stick to a budget, opt to stay at smaller boutique hotels or hostels which are aplenty at Georgetown. Accommodation for one night starts from below RM50. Rent a bicycle or scooter to get around the island easily and on a budget.

Melaka

For those who enjoy culture and historical relics, Melaka is a great place for a getaway. For starters, the Baba & Nyonya culture lends a colorful and rich addition to Melaka. Begin at the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum. Entrance fee is RM16 for adults and RM11 for kids. Then move on to savour the flavorful food of the Baba & Nyonya culture such as Ayam Pongteh, Asam Fish, then end your meal with Cincau Susu. Another not to be missed dish when in Melaka is the Chicken Rice Ball.

Other historical places to visit in Melaka are A Famosa, St Paul’s Hill, Syed Al Attas Mansion and of course Jonker Street. A nice way to see Melaka is also through the Melaka River Cruise which is RM10.00 for adults and RM2.00 for kids Mycard holders. Go in the evening as it is nicer at night when it is cooler and you get to see colourful lights.

Langkawi

To save money stay at budget hostels or guesthouses in Langkawi. We suggest the many budget hostels on Cenang Beach with shared accommodation starting from as low as about RM30 per night. You can either take a flight or go by ferry to Langkawi. Whilst at the island, rent a scooter to get around. Places not to be missed are the cable car, the hanging bridge and the Seven Wells Waterfall. If you have more time, you can also island hop to the nearby islands. Food is cheap if you opt to eat at the stalls and there are also fresh seafood to choose from. 

Perhentian Island

Beach bums looking for a holiday on a budget will enjoy Perhentian Island. You will get to enjoy crystal clear blue water and the diverse ecosystem without having to spend a ton of money. Perhentian Island (kecil) is known to be a laidback place with plenty of hostels and budget stays catering especially to the younger crowds. One night at a dormitory starts from as low as RM30 per night, but this would only be applicable during the low season which are from September onwards. The island is closed during the monsoon season which begins in November to February. 

Kundasang, Sabah

The Borneo Islands offer a different scenery without having to leave the country. To enjoy cool weather and mountain views, you should visit Kundasang. This is the place to go to if you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful environment to relax. Keep the cost of accommodation low by opting to stay at the budget resorts or homestays. If you are travelling from West Coast Malaysia, you will have to factor in the cost of flight to get here. Tip: Book at least 3 months in advance to get great flight ticket deals!

 If you’d like more ideas for budget holidays, find out more from this budget weekend getaways article.