Thailand vs Malaysia for a 2 weeks in SE Asia

Destinations Asia
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I’m planning a solo trip for November and torn between these two. I’ve heard Thailand is the classic choice but also that it’s overrun with tourists and scammers in the main spots now. Malaysia (specifically Penang and KL) seems more chill and I keep hearing the food is actually better? I love street food and culture, not big on partying/clubs.

  • Is Malaysia “too quiet” or is it a good alternative?
  • Also, does my budget (approx $50/day) go further in one vs the other?
3 Likes
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Hi @rachael!

I think it really depends on how long you have an your priorities. I see you’ve mentioned Penang and KL - which are both more urban areas - so if you are after city vibes - then I would say these would definitely be less hectic than say Bangkok so could be better for you.

Thailand has a lot of culture too, especially in the North, but a mix of beaches and nature in the south if you are out of the cities. I know it has a bit of a rep for full moon parties and backpackers - but this is only in specific areas and Thailand is a big country with a lot to offer. If food is your main draw, I don’t think you could go wrong in either country!

If you are travelling all the way to SE Asia - you could consider more than 1 country if you have enough time, even do both! Travel down from Bangkok through a bit of Thailand and end in Malaysia?

If you’re travelling solo, you could also look at small group tours that combine both countries, there are quite a few that run Thailand + Malaysia routes if you’ve got the time!

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Hi there,

I have recently had the same difficult decision between Malaysia and Laos. Cause I’ve been to Thailand already twice but would still recommend it as there’s so much to see and plenty of cultural things to do and see besides party and nightlife.

When I had to choose between Laos and Malaysia in the end it came down to the budget. Out of all places of what I could find was that Malaysia was the more expensive options due to flight prices, as I wanted to travel around Malaysia quite a bit, so that’s why I ended up going to Laos. Which is amazing as well. Cheap and such a slacking culture. The people and the food and the landscape are just incredible.

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I’d do Cambodia and Laos,