malaysia vs thailand tourism

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A Travel Comparison for Vacations, Honeymoons, and Tours Thailand vs. Malaysia

Should you visit thailand or malaysia, which country is cheaper, malaysia or thailand.

Should I visit Thailand or Malaysia? This is a popular question for many travelers. By figuring out which country is more expensive, you'll understand where you'll get more bang for your buck. A week in Malaysia can cost you about $569 (per person), while a week in Thailand may cost you around $569. These differences become even more noticable if you plan to spend a longer time in the country. 10 days , two weeks , or even one month of travel to Malaysia or Thailand can really add to your travel budget.

Accommodation is often cheaper in Thailand compared to Malaysia ($35 vs. $43). Budget travelers often stay in cheaper hostels and guest houses, while nicer hotels usually appeal to families and upscale travelers.

Compare hotel prices here: Thailand Hotel Prices and Malaysia Hotel Prices .

Or, compare hostel and guesthouse prices between Malaysia and Thailand to find the cheapest accommodation here: Malaysia hostels and Thailand hostels .

When comparing food in Thailand vs. Malaysia they are not just different in cuisine, but also in price. Meal and restaurant costs in Thailand ($17) are often cheaper than Malaysia ($18).

• Thailand Prices Malaysia Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Thailand $ 81 Malaysia $ 81
• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Thailand $ 35 Malaysia $ 43
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Thailand $ 70 Malaysia $ 86
• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Thailand $ 12 Malaysia $ 12
• Food Meals for one day Thailand $ 17 Malaysia $ 18
• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Thailand $ 18 Malaysia $ 26
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Thailand $ 8.48 Malaysia $ 11
• Water Bottled water for one day Thailand $ 1.34 Malaysia $ 0.93

How much are flights to Thailand and Malaysia?

The price of a plane ticket may help you decide which country you should visit.

Find a Hostel in Thailand or Malaysia

Hostels, guest houses, and locally owned B&B's are often the cheapest form of accommodation.

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How you can save money when visiting Thailand and Malaysia?

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Thailand or Malaysia? Which is the best travel destination?

Thailand or Malaysia? Which South-Eastern Asia Country should be your next travel destination? They are both internationally renowned beach destinations, but which one is the best? We will explore everything you need to know about each country and try to figure out if you should travel to Malaysia or to Thailand ?

Both countries offer a wide variety of things to do, but they are most sought after because of their beaches, relaxed day-by-day, cheap prices, excellent food, and nature. So, we will use 16 topics to compare Thailand and Malaysia :

• Tourist attractions;
• Outdoor activities;
• General beauty;
• Culture and heritage;
• Eco-friendliness;
• Food scene;
• The people;
• Travel facilities;
• Travel safety;
• Tourist index;

Now, if you are looking for complete guides to Malaysia and Thailand, have a look at ours:

• Everything you need to know before traveling to Malaysia
• Everything you need to know before traveling to Thailand

Page Contents

Malaysia vs Thailand – Travel Edition

Tourist attractions in thailand vs malaysia.

Malaysia is a very eclectic country in terms of tourist attractions. It has all the natural things you would expect, like beaches, tropical forests, and highlands, but it also has History, colonial heritage, and temples. Plus, it has a very modern city with huge skyscrapers, parks, mega malls, and museums.

Malaysia is very family-friendly, with many child-friendly beaches, theme parks, and zoos/animal attractions. Some of the most famous attractions in Malaysia are Langkawi, Penang, Malacca, Kuala Lumpur , Taman Negara, and the Tioman and Perhentian Islands .

In some ways, Thailand’s landmarks and attractions are similar to Malaysia, with famous beaches, rain forests, and a unique culture that evolved with much less influence of the Western world. Although very different, Bangkok also has its modern side with malls and parks.

However, Thailand seems to be more prepared for backpackers, solo travelers, and digital nomads than for families. Some of the most famous attractions include Kanchanaburi , Phuket, the Phi Phi islands , Bangkok , Chiang Mai, and Ayutthaya.

We are going to give a tie here. Both countries are packed with things to do, that surely won’t be a problem whatever your final call is. But note that the tourists in Thailand and Malaysia are slightly different.

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty of Thailand vs Malaysia

Before visiting both countries, we thought that Thailand would win this item easily. However, it’s actually the opposite. In our opinion, Malaysian outdoor activities are much better than in Thailand.

Our favorite outdoor activity in Malaysia is hiking in the forests and national parks. Even small national parks have incredible hikes, like Penang National Park .

Though there are plenty of other things, like snorkeling and diving in the islands, Jungle trekking in Taman Negara, and exploring Kilim Geoforest Park in Langkawi, all the canopy walks spread over the country and obviously the beaches.

Thailand also has plenty of hikes, which aren’t as impressive as Malaysia’s. We did a few but only really enjoyed it in Kanchanaburi, but it was primarily because of the history of the place than nature. One extraordinary thing is the Erawan Falls, which is also in the Kanchanaburi region , and obviously some of the beaches.

So, for us, Malaysia is the better option for nature lovers.

General Beauty of Thailand vs Malaysia

The natural beauty and the outdoor activities are very connected, it’s difficult to enjoy outdoor activities in places that aren’t nice… Fortunately, both countries are generally nice, with some really extraordinary areas.

In Thailand, we found the Kanchanaburi region incredibly beautiful, and Maya Bay is also wonderful (before it becomes crowded). The north of Thailand is also attractive and bucolic but doesn’t come close to the highlands and parks of Malaysia. Ayutthaya is also very interesting but in a different way. Koh Lipe is probably the most beautiful island in Thailand, rivalling any beach in the world, as you can see in this Koh Lipe, Thailand, travel guide.

However, Malaysia takes it to the next level, the forests, parks, reserves, and national parks are incredible, and still, have plenty of wildlife. It’s not at a Costa Rica level, but it’s still enjoyable. The Geopark in Langkawi is also incredible, and the islands in East Malaysia are astonishing.

So, Malaysia also wins this in terms of natural beauty.

Who has the best Beaches? Malaysia or Thailand?

Both Malaysia and Thailand are world-renowned for their beaches, but which one has the best beaches? We have been to quite a few in Thailand and Malaysia and preferred the Malaysian ones. However, we were a bit disappointed a few times in both countries.

We found the beaches in the Perhentian islands to be absolutely wonderful, with warm water, soft sand, few people, and plenty of snorkeling opportunities right from the beach. Langkawi also has a few great beaches and some not-so-great, while Penang was very disappointing in this regard.

The only exception is Turtle Beach in Penang National Park , but I wouldn’t recommend Penang if the beach is all you care about.

In Thailand, we found ourselves underwhelmed, honestly. There are lovely beaches, of course, but they are much harder to find than one may expect. And not like we see tourism brochures… Maya Bay is amazing, but… it’s very crowded, even in the early hours of the morning.

Phuket and the main Phi Phi beaches are not even beaches anymore; they are more like adult theme parks, and that’s true for a few other beaches. We haven’t been to all the beaches in Thailand, and we are sure there are still very nice beaches but don’t expect them to be everywhere or easy to reach. We haven’t been to Koh Lipe, but many fellow bloggers tell us it is the best paradisiac island in Thailand.

In hindsight, Malaysia surprisingly wins this one, but not by much…

Culture and Heritage

This will be a hard one, not because they are similar but so different. Thailand and Malaysia’s history, religion, culture, and society are so distinct that if we didn’t know any better, we wouldn’t think they are neighbors. But is one more interesting to explore than the other? Let’s see!

Malaysia is a real melting pot of cultures. Malacca and Georgetown are the original spice trade centers. Georgetown has mainly a British heritage, but Malacca was colonized by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British before returning to Malay rule. And all of this shows when you are visiting it.

Besides the colonial heritage, Malaysia comprises three main cultures: Malay, Chinese, and Indian. Malay is obviously the dominant one, but both Indians and Chinese are very visible everywhere in Malaysia. You have Indian and Chinese religions, foods, temples, tourist attractions, and obviously people. All of this makes visiting Malaysia an incredibly rich experience.

Thailand is very different, it was never really colonized by external powers, creating a unique culture. It’s obviously Asian, and it was influenced (and influenced) by their neighbors.

Nevertheless, it’s a country’s peculiar personality, and this is cool as you can’t really experience it anywhere else. It’s authentic. The Thai Food, the Muay Thai, the Thai Massage , Buddhism, the full moon parties, and the Songkran are some of the most famous things about Thailand and what makes a trip to it very special.

We will have to give a tie to this one because it depends on what you want to experience. The diversity of Malaysia, or Thailand’s uniqueness.

Vibe – Malaysia vs Thailand

The vibe is something difficult to explain, right? It’s what you feel when visiting a place, and this differs so much from person to person… For us, Thailand has a much better vibe. The people are friendly, the environment is relaxed, and it’s a country where people tend to feel at home easily – it’s perfect for slow traveling and digital nomads.

Malaysia is also a good place to be to take sun vacations or even stay longer, but it isn’t as carefree as Thailand, and the people aren’t so charming.

Thailand is all about welcoming people, they are born into the hospitality industry. Malaysia, not so much. The only problem with Thailand is that it’s so popular and touristy that it’s becoming less authentic.

So, Thailand wins this one, without a doubt.

Resorts and accommodation of Thailand vs Malaysia

In terms of resorts and accommodation, both countries have plenty of options, particularly in the bigger destinations.

In general, both Malaysia and Thailand have very cheap hostels and guest houses; you can find no-frills stays for 10-15 USD for a double room. Sometimes with breakfast, like the one we stayed in KL for a few days . Though they also have luxury resorts for people who don’t mind spending a few extra bucks. Phuket and Langkawi have excellent high-end resorts.

Finally, we need to note that in both countries, the most touristy and beach areas of both countries have some really bad accommodation, so please make sure you choose hostels and guesthouses with plenty of reviews. In Phi Phi, the Perhentian, and Phuket, there are some really bad places… And sometimes they aren’t that cheap!

We will have to give another tie on this one. Thailand and Malaysia share the same positives and negatives regarding accommodation and resorts.

Who is more eco-friendly? Malaysia or Thailand?

This is a very important issue and a very trendy one. It’s also a topic where Southeast Asian countries don’t excel. So, sadly, this is more like which is the least bad of the two…

We found that both countries had problems with waste management, particularly where there are many tourists, like the Phi Phi islands, Phuket, or Penang. We were particularly shocked by these two places. Batu Ferringhi and even the parts of Penang National Park had trash all over the beaches, which was disheartening. The main Phi Phi island and Phuket were just downright horrible.

We also found Georgetown and KL a little cleaner than Bangkok and Chiang Mai. On the downside, Malaysia has been struggling to protect its rainforests, although it still has a big rainforest, which we can’t really say is the same about Thailand.

We are going to give Malaysia the win on this one, but it’s possible that you will see things that you won’t like in either of the countries.

Although shopping is possibly the last reason we choose a travel destination, we know many of you love to shop while traveling, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Plus, this is an exciting topic when comparing Thailand and Malaysia.

Both countries have plenty of shopping opportunities. Thailand and Malaysia both have huge night markets where you can find anything and everything. Plus, both countries have a few megamalls with all the shops you can think of and much more. Also, both countries are pretty cheap. So, what’s the difference?

In Malaysia, you have more, mega malls, high-end shops, while Thailand has many more local markets (particularly night markets), and they are bigger than in Malaysia.

As we prefer markets to malls, we are giving the win to Thailand. But if you prefer the Malls, Malaysia, particularly Kuala Lumpur, is the better choice.

This is a fairly easy one. Nightlife is one of the most famous things about Thailand . The water festival, the full moon parties, Phuket, Khaosan Road, and Koh Phangan are all worldwide famous, and people go to Thailand only to party and enjoy the nightlife.

There are activities for everyone, from the most ordinary bars to the infamous Ping Pong shows and ladyboys. If you are looking to party, there’s no doubt about what to choose.

Malaysia, on the other hand, has a very small nightlife, and it’s kind of a niche thing. It’s just not in their culture. Also, alcohol is much more expensive, which doesn’t help to promote it.

So, Thailand is the clear winner here.

If the Nightlife was an easy call, the food is really hard. Thai food is simply amazing! It has unique dishes, strong but balanced flavors, and fresh ingredients. We loved Thai food so much that we even did a cooking class .

There are quite a few dishes that everyone needs to try in Thailand . Some of these include Pad Thai, sticky rice with mango, Kwaw Pad, Green papaya salad, Laab moo, and Tom Yum and Khao Soi.

Thai cuisine is as unique as it is tasty! However, food in Malaysia can be as good as in Thailand, though with a different Style. In Malaysia, we can see three different cuisines: Malay, Chinese, and Indian.

As we said above, Malaysia is a mixture of these three different cultures, and that really shows in its cuisine. With such powerful cuisines, it’s hard to find better places to eat than in Malaysia. However, within Malaysia, Georgetown is widely regarded as a foodie’s paradise and one of the best places in the world to eat.

We were very tempted to give the win to Malaysia and its three cuisines, but we will give a tie! You can’t really go wrong with either country!

This is another easy win for Thailand. Thai people are really good hosts and seem to enjoy having tourists around. They always greet you with that beautiful Thai smile, making you feel welcome in their country.

Despite the massive number of tourists, Thailand is a country where we always feel at ease and welcome. The only downside of the Thai is that their English isn’t very good – most only know a few sentences.

Malaysians aren’t really similar to Thais. They aren’t rude or anything, but they don’t make you feel at home or welcome. It’s fairly easy to find very lovely Malaysians (particularly the Indians), but in general, they don’t care much for the tourists. On the upside, their English is much, much better than the Thais.

Despite the more significant communication problems, Thailand wins this one.

Travel infrastructure – Thailand vs Malaysia

Malaysia is richer and better developed than Thailand. The roads are better, it has more cars and taxis and fewer tuk-tuks and songthaews. Finding malls, modern grocery stores, and fast-food restaurants is also easier.

However, the difference isn’t that big, and Thailand has developed its travel infrastructure very fast. Langkawi is the exception here; for some reason, there isn’t public transport on the island, and you have to use taxis or rent a car…

In Thailand, the infrastructure isn’t as well integrated, and in most towns, there aren’t many public transport options – you may need to use many more tuk-tuks. However, there are so many tourists in Thailand that there’s always a way of getting to the places where you want to be.

In terms of long-haul buses, we believe the countries are very similar. The buses are good, frequent, easy to use and reach everywhere.

So Malaysia wins this item, but you’ll hardly have any problems moving around in Thailand.

Thailand vs Malaysia – safety

Both countries are very safe for tourists. It’s very unlikely that you will experience any kind of violent crime in Thailand or in Malaysia. However, statistics show that Malaysia is slightly safer than Thailand.

The biggest threat to tourists is probably road safety. Asians are well known for being quite crazy when driving, and our experience matches this cliche. Neither of the countries is similar to Laos or Cambodia , but it’s still a very different experience from the Western world.

Another thing we need to mention here is the scams; in this regard, Thailand is much worse than Malaysia. You need to be aware of some famous travel scams like “the Grand Palace is close, but I’ll take you to a better one,” or the taxi driver going the long route to reach the destinations or the taxi meter is broken… and many others.

In hindsight, Malaysia wins this.

Which costs more? Thailand or Malaysia?

Let’s talk about money! If you are anything like us, you are a budget traveler and don’t want to spend more than you need. Lucky for you, both countries are very, very cheap. They are among the cheapest we have ever visited. You won’t have problems in Malaysia or Thailand unless you are a heavy drinker / huge partygoer.

People tend to say that Thailand is much cheaper than Malaysia, we can’t really see it. As budget travelers and bloggers, we tend to keep track of all our expenses during a trip to compare costs.

In Thailand, we have spent 29 USD per person per day, while in Malaysia, he has spent 28 USD per person per day. On both trips, we included everything we spent, including bank fees and souvenirs, except fly-in/out, and we traveled as a couple.

Nevertheless, you should note that we don’t really drink, and that’s something that’s much more expensive in Malaysia. If you want to drink / party, you’ll pay two, three, or four times more in Malaysia than in Thailand. And that’s why we will give Thailand the win here!

Which feels more crowded? Malaysia or Thailand

Finally, we have the tourists index, meaning the number of tourists to a destination. And it is also a very easy call. Thailand has more tourists than Malaysia. It’s not that Malaysia isn’t touristic. It is! Malaysia is a very touristic destination, most commercially, with resorts, theme parks, and everything that comes with it.

However, Thailand takes it to another level. We have written it before and repeated it. In Thailand, there are tourists everywhere, and everything is a tourist attraction. You can find destinations that are more for partygoers (Pattaya), others for resort lovers (Phuket), digital nomads’ destinations (Chiang Mai), and even hippie destinations (Pai). But all of them are very popular among their target audience.

So, Malaysia wins this one, mainly because it’s challenging to find a country with more tourists than Thailand. Although, neither of these destinations is a good one if you want to go to an untouristic destination.

Malaysia or Thailand – The Verdict

Statistically, Malaysia wins this showdown, with seven wins against five from Thailand, with four draws and many close calls! In reality, this was one of the most challenging and leveled comparisons we have made! However, it doesn’t really matter how many wins a destination has, it’s all about how it matches your expectations and what you want to take from this trip!

So, you should choose to travel to Malaysia if you:

• Travel as a family;
• Want to snorkel and dive;
• Want to explore a melting pot of cultures between Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Colonialism legacy;
• Are extremely picky with safety;
• It’s important to note that the locals speak English;
• Prefer Mega malls to local markets;
• Want to hike in National Parks and tropical forests.

On the other hand, you should travel to Thailand if you:

• Want to drink and party;
• You don’t mind the crowds of tourists;
• Interaction with smiling, easy-going locals is important to you;
• Want to experience a unique culture;
• Want to explore endless markets and night markets;
• Want a very carefree and easy-going vibe.

Note that both destinations have good beaches and amazing food and are, in general, inexpensive, safe, and easy to travel to!

Now you can choose which one fits you better!

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Malaysia Vs Thailand: Which is the Better(and Cheaper) Tourist Destination

Southeast Asia is one of those regions that everyone wants to travel to at least once in a lifetime, and why not? The diverse culture of southeast asian people, incredible landscape, finger-licking good food and wildlife , all sum up the temptation this part of the world offers, and Thailand and Malaysia are no exception. The two countries have so much to offer that you have to make multiple visits to explore these destinations thoroughly. 

Though Malaysia and Thailand share a border, yet they are entirely different from each other. Visitors enjoy varied experiences at both destinations in terms of food, activities, nightlife and mainly, budget. 

Is Malaysia Better & Safer than Thailand? 

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Malaysia is popular among Southeast Asian countries for being relatively safe as compared to its neighbors. Although the country is at low risk for scams on tourists, petty crime is common such as bag snatching. I’ve traveled to Malaysia thrice, and ever for once, I had to face this issue. The reason is, I used to take extra care of my purse in busy areas (this is what I practice in any country I travel to, just to be on the safe side).

Other than bag scams, you need to be very careful when using your credit card. Always get a receipt of your transaction no matter where you pay. However, it is best to keep cash with you at all times and not use your card. Other than these minor issues, which you can literally face anywhere, Malaysia is safe overall. We can vouch that it is safer than Thailand.  

Thailand is safe too

But in some areas where there are crowds, tourists are advised to take special care. As Asia’s one of the most popular tourist destinations with millions of people visiting every year, the crime rate is high. One of the most common is bag-snatching, but we already told you above how to tackle that. The second main crime is drugs. Make sure not to get too close to any person or group that could lure you into drugs, as this is a grave crime in Thailand and may get you into a lot of trouble. Prostitution, which is illegal in Thailand, is still practiced in many places there. While many women working as prostitutes in Thailand are locals, some are trafficked from neighboring countries. These girls offer services to tourists mainly. This story was somewhere where a tourist was trapped by a prostitute who first offered him and later threatened him to pay a few hundred dollars. We do not intend to scare you away with these facts but instead warn you. Thailand is indeed a beautiful country to visit, but with a bit of extra care, you can make your trip more exciting. If you plan to visit any of these countries but cannot decide between the two, don’t worry. Here is an honest comparison to help you choose between Malaysia and Thailand: 

Food: Malaysia vs Thailand

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Starting with food in both countries, Malaysia and Thailand are considered the best food destinations globally. Malaysia’s local cuisine is loved by many across the world. Some of their best dishes include chicken satay, beef rendang, laksa and cendol. Besides these local dishes that you can find anywhere in the country, one can find many other cuisines here, such as Indian(Ummm I just love Indian Rotis…), Chinese, American, French, and a lot more. This opens up options for foodies who do not want to stick with the local cuisine throughout their trip here. Malaysian food spots here are varied from carts to food markets to five-star restaurants. 

On the other hand, Thailand’s gastronomy is no less with food mainly consists of fish and vegetables. The dishes are full of flavors and fresh ingredients such as egg noodles freshly made, coconut desserts, papaya salad and sticky rice with homegrown mangoes. Thailand is widely famous for producing delicious fruits such as pineapple, dragon fruit, guava, mango and papaya. In terms of pricing, food is cheaper in Thailand, with an average meal price starting from $3. The only drawback in terms of food here is not many options are available for those who are not into seafood or vegetarian dishes. 

Which country wins?

It is hard to name one as both the countries offer delicious gastronomy, but from the visitor’s point of view who has been to both the places, Malaysia takes the lead here. The plethora of food options available in Malaysia makes it an ideal food paradise for travelers. 

Accommodation: Malaysia vs Thailand

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In terms of hotels and resorts , Malaysia and Thailand have many options, particularly in popular destinations.

In general, one can find hostels and guest houses for no more than $10 to $15 per night for a double room. These kinds of places are best suited for backpackers who don’t mind sharing accommodation. However, if you plan to come on honeymoon or with your family, it is best to book a resort or hotel where starting price per night is around $110 or $120. Some of the places even offer complimentary breakfast.

For those who don’t mind spending a few more bucks, there are some high-end resorts in places such as Phuket in Thailand and Langkawi in Malaysia. Just beware of cheap stays at touristy beach areas where both the countries are known for offering accommodation in awful conditions. Make sure to read reviews before you decide to book accommodation.

The Winner:

We will have to give both a tie on accommodation. Malaysia and Thailand share the same pros, cons and variety in terms of space to live. A little research is all you need to find a suitable place that too within a budget.

Beaches: Malaysia vs Thailand

Photo by Mukiibi John Elijah from Unsplash

Both Thailand and Malaysia have breathtaking beaches ranging from popular names to secluded spots on uninhabited islands.

The number of beaches and islands in Malaysia is relatively less as compared to Thailand. There are only a few places with a handful of beaches, such as Langkawi – a renowned beach destination. Being a popular tourist spot, Langkawi doesn’t offer much to those who want to spend quality time in a secluded beach spot. However, a couple of resorts, including the incredible Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, offer all-in-one features to the visitors for only around $110 per night. Prices are subjected to change depending on the seasons.

On the contrary, Thailand is indeed beach heaven. Beaches and islands are abundant here with fine white sand, turquoise waters, stunning rock formations and diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, almost all of the beach spot allows visitors to take part in several water sports such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking and swimming of course. Unlike Malaysia, you can find many secluded beaches away from the bustling crowds of cities such as Nai Harn Beach and Koh Kood.

Hands down, Thailand wins with the most diverse beach destinations. Malaysia is undoubtedly an incredible tourist spot, but when it comes to a summer beach trip, no place can beat Thailand’s vibes.  

Nightlife: : Malaysia vs Thailand

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Malaysia is more suited to family travelers who are into kids’ friendly activities. If we talk about nightlife, Malaysia sure has plenty of places such as in Kuala Lumpur for visitors who are into parties. But on the other hand, alcohol is not available easily due to its high taxed prices. Though not like Thailand, there are many trendy bistros and clubs you can go to, such as Zouk KL and La Bodega in Kuala Lumpur. 

On the contrary, Thailand has ease regarding its parties . You’ll see masses enjoying all night long with drinks in their hands in cities as well as beaches. Bangkok is popular for hosting night parties where you can dance and enjoy a lot of booze. Then there is Phuket, where nightlife is varied – it would not be wrong to say it is a bit EXTREME. From little beer bars to wild bars to sipping a drink at a beach bar, Phuket has it all. 

Malaysia’s nightlife is more sophisticated as compared to Thailand’s vibrant party culture. If partying and drinking all night is your thing, then Thailand is the winner here. With insane party scenes, beachside dance gatherings, and the famous moon party , Thailand is indeed a heaven for party lovers. 

Things to Do: Malaysia vs Thailand

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Malaysia is truly a culturally diverse land with attractive places to visit. Whether you crave city life, or want to relax on an island, or hike to the forests, or shopping is your top priority, Malaysia has it all. From the hustling crowd and aura of Kuala Lumpur to Penang’s old town vibes, or the beach life of Langkawi, Malaysia has endless locations for the visitors to explore. Some of the landmarks are free to visit, whereas you have to pay a fee for adventures such as the Petronas Twin Towers tour.

In one way or another, Thailand’s attractions are similar to Malaysia, but the country is surrounded by more natural attractions such as rainforests, islands and beaches with little influence of the western world, unlike Malaysia. While there are plenty of spots to dive in Malaysia, you can only encounter massive whale sharks in Thailand during diving trips. The underwater world in Thailand is rich with marine life, which is visible clearly. Other adventurous activities include but not limited to bungee jumping, skydiving and giant rope swings.  

Here we have to give a tie again as both countries are equally best in terms of attractions and things to do. However, they offer different yet unique spots to explore.

Budget: Malaysia vs Thailand

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Let’s talk about the budget in both countries! If you are a budget traveler like us and don’t want to spend more, let us tell you, Malaysia and Thailand offer MORE FOR LESS. The prices of hotels, food and transport are almost the same in these places. For instance, you should plan to spend around USD 68(2,129 Thai Baht or MYR 28.52) to USD 75(2,348 Thai Baht or MYR 310.50) per day on your vacation to any of these countries. This is the average daily price you pay on meals and transportation. 

In terms of budget, Malaysia and Thailand both come as winners, and any budget traveler can plan a trip to these places.

The Final Verdict

Both the countries have their own pros and cons in terms of traveling. It also depends on the preference of visitors that what they wish to do in both countries. Thailand and Malaysia have a plethora of wonderful experiences, and most importantly, are budget-friendly. Choosing among them really depends on what kind of tour you are looking for. 

If you want a family and kids’ friendly holiday, there is no better place than Malaysia. Here you can find a lot of spectacular places to go to and many adventures for your kids. Food variety is also in abundance. However, if beaches and parties are what you are after, we’d recommend you to visit Thailand, which is a place for all individuals, couples, and even families. But if you are visiting Thailand with your kids, you just need to plan carefully as there are many adult-only places that you’d not want your kids to get exposed to. 

So, 2022 has just started, and unfortunately, covid-19 is still there. But don’t lose hope as vaccines have rolled out already. We cannot travel to many countries at the moment, but we can certainly plan for one, and what’s more ideal than a fun-packed vacation to Malaysia and Thailand?

James Ardimento has spent the last 12 years journeying around the globe ! With its precious experiences and tips he gained around Asia, South America, Europe and the US he is a precious asset for this blog and for its readers

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Thailand vs. Malaysia: Which Should You Visit?

Posted by Adam Cheshier | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links.

When building your Southeast Asia itinerary, making the decision to see Thailand or Malaysia isn’t easy. Both countries have their pros and cons.

I spent multiple months in each – sometimes in exotic, untraveled places and sometimes in the most visited places on earth. Each country brought a vastly different experience as well as education and friends I never expected.

A lot of the experiences I had were repeatable and not just from circumstance, and, let me say, everyone should do their best to put themselves out there in these countries.

Below, I will break down my experiences in each country as well as highlight some key differences in culture and traditions in each. By the end, you should have a better idea of each country and the experience you want to have in each.

Bangkok, Thailand

Tourist Destinations

First, Thailand, which is probably the most often traveled of the two countries.

Bangkok – the most visited city in the world. Often, visitors don’t spend more than three or four days in this city. When it comes to tourist activities and pretty scenes, there are certainly better places in Thailand.

I spent two months in this city because I loved what I experienced every time I walked out onto the street.

To put it lightly, you will never experience a place like Bangkok. It is the city of quirk and the unusual. It is a perfect place to get you acquainted with the differences between Southeast Asia and the western world.

You can also visit:

• Phi Phi Islands

Beach in Malaysia

Next, let’s check out some of Malaysia’s top destination.

Borneo – I lived six months in Kota Kinabalu of Borneo. It’s not the most amazing city in Malaysia. Matter of fact, I wouldn’t recommend spending more than a few days there.

I didn’t stay for six months because I loved the city. I stayed in Sabah (the region of Kota Kinabalu) because of the other-worldly nature that Borneo has.

I highly recommend spending the majority of your time in Borneo out in nature which is what makes the place special. It is the third largest island in the world and filled with adventure.

Mountain hiking, jungle trekking, beach chilling, or scuba diving – Borneo offers all of it! Don’t spend your time in the cities of Borneo (although more developed than most of Southeast Asia, it’s not what makes Borneo special).

• Kuala Lumpur
• Perhentian Islands

Thailand vs. Malaysia Tourist Destination Winner: Thailand wins with the most tourist attractions . Whether you prefer city life, beach destinations, island life, or mountainous terrain, both countries have them. However, Thailand has catered to tourists more in each type of destination.

Hidden temple in the jungle of Malaysia

Now, let’s see what both countries have to offer culturally.

Thailand – a Buddhist country.

You will experience many temples and even ancient ruins. People are generally friendly, although, they’ve learned to take advantage of tourists when they can due to decades of high tourism.

Malaysia – a conservative Muslim country.

Like Communism in Vietnam, Islam has a hold of the culture in most of Malaysia. Borneo is, generally, more open to non-conservative beliefs and thinking. Peninsular Malaysia is very much strict on ideals and beliefs, especially for the locals.

Thailand vs. Malaysia Culture Winner: Malaysia wins here. In Borneo, the culture is so varied and vastly different than peninsular Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia

The most popular itinerary in each country for travelers:

Thailand – Island Hopping is what gave Thailand its world-renown fame. Millions still come to Thailand to experience the tropical islands and swim in crystal clear, turquoise waters every year.

Malaysia – Nature/ Food. Borneo is one of the most beautiful places in Asia but it is quickly being destroyed for non-renewable resources. Cities in peninsular Malaysia have become known as the foodie capital in Southeast Asia.

Both are popular reasons to visit the country.

Thailand vs. Malaysia Things to Do Winner: Malaysia wins when it comes to what to do – as long as you’re a nature lover. Borneo is filled with adventures and peninsular Malaysia has plenty of city life to add to that.

Want more of the outdoors? Join our new  Sustainable Hiking Collective  on Facebook to connect with the international hiking community, discover new destinations, join virtual trail cleanups, and take part in monthly sustainability challenges. 

Koh Samui, an island in Thailand

Both countries are often traveled and tourists are (generally) safe if acting with caution.

Thailand vs. Malaysia Safety Winner: Tie

Thailand has the best nightlife of the two countries by far. Part of island hopping in Thailand includes the famed Full Moon parties and otherwise excellent nightlife.

Thailand vs. Malaysia Nightlife Winner: Thailand

Remote Work

If visiting with the intention of staying and working online, Thailand is your best bet. Between the two countries, most expats live in Thailand and it has a better overall internet connection than Malaysia.

Thailand vs. Malaysia Remote Work Winner: Thailand

The twin towers are the most iconic buildings in Kuala Lumpur

And the winner is. . .

The majority of people, if traveling to only Malaysia or Thailand, would choose to travel to Thailand. It’s easier to get around and most built with tourists in mind. This is not to say it is better than the other two – just easier.

Adam Cheshier is an American writer and travel blogger. Keep up with his travels on his blog at wanderwayer.com or connect with him on Pinterest.

Ready to go?

Explore unique stays on Airbnb – like  this traditional heritage house in Bangkok or this cozy treehouse in Chiang Mai – and the top hotels on Booking.com to plan your trip to Thailand.

Then, check out more food, cultural, and outdoors experiences in the country to round out your itinerary (or, book a multi-day Thailand tour to finish your travel planning in one click!).

This article is part of the Southeast Asia Smackdown series. Read the rest below:

China vs. Taiwan

Thailand vs. Vietnam

Cambodia vs. Malaysia

Australia vs. New Zealand

Or, explore the complete Country Comparison Series for more showdowns from around the world.

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My two cents: Malaysia, hands down better in almost every way.

Malaysia is cleaner and wealthier than Thailand. Malaysia is highly developed with a better infrastructure and a far more extensive train system. English is widely spoken in Malaysia. Malaysia is more culturally diverse, and tourists will have a more authentic experience there. Malaysia has better food including outstanding Indian and Chinese food. Malaysia is heavily forested and has many superb nature reserves to visit, whereas Thailand is largely deforested. Malaysia offers 90-day visa exemption for most countries, compared to only 30 days in Thailand. Malaysia can even be slightly cheaper than Thailand (most people would probably disagree with this last statement, but it depends on factors).

By comparison Thais have generally above average English skills for SE Asia, but most won’t be able to converse with you beyond basic business transactions. Thailand is swarming with tourists, many of them obnoxious drunks and pervs who contribute to a bad reputation of foreigners among locals. Thailand offers a much better party atmosphere and is infamous for drinking, sex, and ganja. The negative side of all of this is that the overall experience can be less authentic.

Where Thailand comes out ahead: Thailand has immaculate Buddhist temples. Thailand has fewer cigarette smokers than Malaysia. Malaysians have terrible smoking etiquette and seem to treat non-smoking signs as mere suggestions.

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts! I agree the temples in Thailand are absolutely phenomenal, but I also agree that you will probably have a less authentic experience. The drugs/party/sex scene in Thailand brings in a lot of terrible tourists and makes for a weird vibe in some places in the country.

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Bangkok vs Kuala Lumpur: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]

W hen it comes to Asian city breaks, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are two that should be near the top of everyone’s bucket list. That’s because both of these lively cities can offer unique experiences and unforgettable vacations.

B oth cities have their charm, with Bangk ok being cha otic with narrow packed streets, but lots of street se l lers, f o od and world-famous nightlife! In c omparis on Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia is m ore sedate and green, has many English speakers and is a rea l me lting p ot of Asian cultures.

However that’s just scratching the surface!

Thankfully we know both cities well, so are here to help you decide which one is right for you. Below we compare both cities, and give our honest opinion on which is safer, cheaper, has the best excursions, nightlife, and more:

So let’s dive in!

• Which Has The Better Cultural Experience
• Which Has Better Nightlife
• Which Has Better Shopping
• Which Has Better Excursions
• Which Is Cheaper
• Which Is Safer
• Which Is The Better Choice

Which Has The Better Cultural Experience?

There’s no doubt that Bangkok is the cultural hub of Thailand, and the city has a vibrant mix of traditional temples alongside an exciting and emerging modern art and music scene.

Thailand’s capital remains very much a city centered around Thais rather than tourists, and as such there’s an array of street food, museums, markets and floating markets to enjoy and explore.

We rec ommend visiting Yaowarat   Road   which is one of the largest street f o od sp ots in the w or ld. In fact when it c omes t o f o od experiences, this city is one of the best on the p lanet!

However there’s something special about Kuala Lumpur, and people fr om thr ough out the regi on have made this city h ome.

Subsequently the many nationalities and cultures here have influenced the music, art, food and fashion in the city, making a trip here an assault on the senses in a g o od way. English is widely spoken in the city t o o – more s o than Bangk ok – making it an easy p lace t o navigate.

Check out Jalan Alor street f or hawker stalls and great seaf o od, and Kuala Lumpur’s Central Market f or an Aladdin’s cave of g o ods, antiques and m ore.

Winner: Draw

Which Has The Better Nightlife?

People from around the world come to Bangkok to experience Thailand’s famous nightlife and the various vices it caters too.

Bangkok has a rowdy reputation and areas like Khao San Road , Soi Cowboy , and the famous red light district of Patpong , are at the heart of Bangkok’s nightlife scene. F or y our own safety when in these areas it’s best t o stick t o the main r oads and d on’t venture d own side streets.

Kuala Lumpur has a burge oning nightlife scene t o o, fr om swanky c ocktai l bars t o budget beer p laces. Streets like Jalan Bukit Bintang tend t o c ome alive when the sun g oes d own and y ou can find a l l sorts of evening entertainment opti ons on this energetic street.

Sti l l, Bangkok’s lively and l oud night life scene is fam ous f or a reas on, and is the best ch oice if y our pri ority is fun when the sun goes down.

Winner: Bangk ok

Which Has The Better Shopping?

B oth of these capita l cities have fam ous sh opping streets and mega ma l ls, s o y ou’re unlikely t o be disapp ointed if y ou have ambiti ons of a sh opping spree.

However Kuala Lumpur tends t o be a better sh opping destinati on when y ou’re on the hunt f or high-end brands.

M ore and m ore ma l ls appear t o p op up every time you visit t o o, and this city is bec oming a rea l p owerh ouse when it c omes t o sh opping experiences. The ma l ls themse lves can be quite spectacu lar as we l l.

Bangk ok is cheaper overall when it c omes t o sh opping, but remains a hotbed of counterfeit goods. That said, y ou’ l l find many KL citizens g o t o Bangk ok t o sh op due t o the prices!

Winner: Kuala Lumpur

Which Has The Better Excursions?

Bangkok is packed with things to do, from huge temples like the Grand Palace to floating markets, and everywhere you turn there’s something new to explore or try. 

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market outside of Bangk ok is one of the m ost fam ous markets, and w orth visiting.

Surrounding Bangk ok is the beautiful Khao Yai National Park . Whi lst just a few miles outside the city is Maeklong   Railway Market – this unassuming vegetable market has bec ome fam ous in recent years due t o the fact a train runs directly thr ough the heart of it. It’s now been nicknamed Thailand’s most dangerous market!

Recommended: Hiring a sc o oter in Thailand

Kuala Lumpur is a mix of o ld and m odern, with skyscrapers lo oming over ancient m osques and bust ling markets that have existed f or generati ons.

The Petr onas Towers , which was once the tallest bui lding in the w or ld, is an ic onic structure in the city that c ontains a high-end ma l l and light sh ows in the evening.

N orth of Kuala Lumpur is where y ou’ l l find the stunning Batu Caves (see photo below) – a set of ancient Hindu temp les bui lt within a huge limestone cave. The caves sit at the entrance t o Selangor State Park , a tropical rainforest with trails and waterfalls.

B oth Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok have a plethora of city experiences and tourist attractions, as we l l as things t o d o in the surr ounding area. F or that reas on, we have t o ca l l this a tie.

Which Is Cheaper?

There’s a c lear winner f or us in terms of expenses as Bangk ok is a far cheaper destinati on than Kuala Lumpur in regards t o acc omm odati on, f o od, and m ore.

Thai land’s capita l has many aff ordab le acc omm odati on opti ons t o c over a l l budgets – fr om backpackers t o h oneym o oners – whi lst the easy availability of cheap street f o od ar ound the city is a big p lus.

Kuala Lumpur is n ot as budget friendly, but when it c omes t o high end h ote l r o oms the prices d on’t differ huge ly fr om Bangk ok. In many ways the Ma laysian capita l fee ls a bit like a cheaper Singapore, which isn’t a bad thing.

Which Is Safer?

Both are safe destinations, which is why tourists visit in huge numbers every year. However, as always when on holiday you should avoid confrontations with locals, avoid walking in unlit areas at night, and keep an eye on your drinks when at clubs and bars.

As for which is safer, petty crime – like bag snatching and pickpocketing – tends t o be m ore c omm on in Kuala Lumpur than Bangk ok.

Recommended: Everything A Tourist Needs To Know To Stay Safe in Thailand & Bangkok.

Violent crime targeting foreigners is relatively rare in b oth cities, but these s ort of crimes have happened in b oth Bangk ok and Kuala Lumpur in the past – particularly in nightlife areas. Recommended: Is Kuala Lumpur safe?

Winner: Bangkok

Bangkok vs Kuala Lumpur : Which Is The Better Choice?

B oth cities are definitely w orth visiting at s ome p oint, and each has its own unique charm and quirks.

But if y our pri ority is a great nightlife, an impressive f o od scene and a budget-friendly destinati on, then cha otic Bangk ok may be the better ch oice than Kuala Lumpur.

H owever if y ou want a m ore relaxed city with many English speakers and great sh opping, then the Malaysian capita l may suit y ou m ore.

Recommended For Your Trip To Bangkok Or Kuala Lumpur

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• Malaysia , Thailand

Thailand vs. Malaysia

Table of Contents

Apart from picturesque views and golden beaches, both have a lot to offer their visitors. More than a feast for your eyes, they also have mouth-watering cuisine that ties in with their unique cultures. Both are strong contenders for your trip to Southeast Asia, so you can never go wrong with either.

Thailand, “The Land of Smiles” is a popular tourist destination located in mainland Southeast Asia. It is well-known for its rich culture, beautiful sceneries, abundant wildlife, and more. To top it off, the friendly locals also make the country even more inviting.

Blessed with beaches, highlands, forests, and jungles, the country has a lot to offer. If you are adventurous, you can go rafting, rock climbing, or even try a jungle leap. But if you want to relax instead, you can chill by the long coastlines of their many beaches.

There is always something to do in Thailand, no matter your preference. To add, Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that has never been colonized. Thus, you can experience their unique and untouched culture to its fullest extent.

What Makes Thailand Unique?

An island for every type of tourist.

Thailand is a nation that has many islands, 1,430 of them to be exact. There is an island to visit for adventures, beaches, temples, and festivals. Thus, each island appeals to a different kind of tourist, so there is always somewhere fun to go for you.

Koh Tao is for the adventurer at heart, as it offers blood-pumping adventures as you immerse in nature. Koh Lipe offers a quaint feel of the country’s untouched beaches and water. Koh Samui is up your alley if you want luxury resorts with top-class restaurants for the foodie in you.

Beautiful Sceneries in Various Terrains

Thailand truly stands out in captivating tourists with natural attractions. Being a nation of many islands, beaches are what most tourists come for. But Thailand also offers other picturesque sceneries on land.

Grab your camera and flock to rock formations, stunning cliffs, and caves in the middle of forests. Bask in the beautiful architecture of temples, too, as part of your itinerary. Relaxing in a sea of lotuses in the Red Lotus Sea is also a must when you visit the country.

If you want to experience Thailand away from the crowded tourist hotspots, here are some of the best picks for you.

Sam Phan Bok

Known as the Grand Canyon of Thailand, this is a must-see during the rainy season. This rock formation is an interesting landscape to behold as it looks as if large mountains are in the middle of the Mae Kong River.

Sra Morakot

This hot spring in the middle of the forest is also called the Emerald Pool due to its vibrant and clear waters. The forest that surrounds it, Khao Nor Juji, is apparently the country’s last virgin forest. Sra Morakot is a must-visit on a bright and sunny day.

Doi Chang Cliffs

Going to the top of this cliff requires trekking on uneven terrain, but there is a stunning reward after. Locals call this “Piang Dao” which translates to “at the level of the stars”. Thus, Doi Chang Cliffs gives you a spectacular view of the Milky Way.

A Unique Mix of Wildlife

A surprising 10 percent of animal species in the world call Thailand their home. A tenth of all bird species also live in the country, which is more than the birds in America and Europe combined. Not only that, you will find one of the smallest and largest animals on Earth in Thailand.

Both the smallest mammal, the bumblebee bat, and the largest fish, the whale shark, are in the country. The biggest lizard in the world, the monitor lizard, also resides in the Land of Smiles.

So if you are an animal lover, Thailand will surely pique your interest. Find some of the best places to visit these creatures in the wild below.

Doi Mon Jong

Relax in the rolling meadows of Doi Mon Jong as you get to meet Thailand’s endangered and exotic species. The spectacular view of the Milky Way at night is a big bonus for anyone visiting.

Mokoju Peak

Trek through the refreshing trails of Mokoju Peak with a park ranger to reach the peak. There is a variety of wildlife here, but the many bird species living here are one of the main attractions. Here, you will find mountain hawk-eagles, Burmese yuhina, and more.

Diverse Set of Activities

Thailand excels in letting tourists experience their unique culture and country. There is a lot to do in Thailand, no matter your interests and budget!

If you want to spend your time relaxing, get a Thai massage or do some meditation. The best place to get a massage is Wat Pho, the ancestor of Thai massage. Chiang Mai is the go-to for meditation as it has various centers such as Wat Suan Dok, Wat Ram Poeng, Wat Umong, and more.

If you are an adrenaline junkie, Thailand also has something fun for you to do.

You can go on a fun rafting trip on well-developed systems around Chiang Mai. Or you may want an exhilarating drive across rugged mountainous tracks on an ATV. But trying out the Jungle Leap is the best activity if you want to get your blood pumping.

For those who love a good challenge, you can try rock climbing on Railay Beach. This place attracts many climbing experts all around the world as it is by the seaside. You don’t have to be a master for this, as there are entry-level courses offered.

But for truly unique experiences in Thailand, you can get involved with their culture. You can either watch or try Muay Thai Boxing, the country’s cultural martial art. Learning how to cook their delicacies in Chiang Mai is also a fun way to experience their culture.

Electrifying Nightlife

Thailand is one of the best nightlife destinations in the world. Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are all hotspots for tourists who want to enjoy themselves. Thailand offers an unforgettable nightlife experience, so you’re in for a treat!

You’ll find streets lined with pubs, rooftop bars, and even go-go bars to go to. The vibrant neon lights and merry crowds only add to the exhilarating experience. There are also boat parties in some areas if you want to enjoy your time on the water.

What will complete your nightlife trip in Thailand are the cabaret shows. Experience glamorous performances that large crowds flock to each night. Popular places for these include Chiang Mai Cabaret and Miracle Cabaret Chiang Mai.

If getting lost in a sea of night lovers is more your speed, join the Full Moon party! Thousands of people gather in Haad Rin Bay to drink, see fireworks, and party throughout the night.

You’ll need to schedule your trip if you want to experience the Full Moon party. But off-season, you can still enjoy several parties that the island has to offer.

Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, races, and religions. The country’s three main races are Malay, Chinese, and Indian. And its three main religions are Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.

Multiculturalism is a big part of Malaysia’s identity. Every culture gets celebrated vivaciously and respected through festivities, food, and more. This harmonious diversity only adds to any tourist’s unique Malaysian experience.

Malaysia also has a stark contrast between urban and natural settings. Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, is a lively, busy place with towering skyscrapers. But if you move to other parts of the country, you’ll find that Malaysia is a lush, biologically diverse landscape too.

What Makes Malaysia Unique?

Spectacular food scene.

Food and culture are intertwined, and the former is a way of retaining cultural identity. Since Malaysia is an interesting mix of cultures, its cuisine is famous worldwide. Other than that, they also have almost every traditional cuisine from every culture.

As they embrace each other’s culture, Malaysians like to combine two or more cultures in a dish. A popular example of this is mee goreng mamak, an Indian-Muslim dish in one.

If you’re a foodie at heart, head over to Penang to try out various tasty street foods! Most of the vendors come from generations of cooks, so they know how to make the most scrumptious meals.

Pristine White-Sand Beaches

Malaysia boasts several of the most gorgeous beaches in Asia. Much of the country’s long coastlines and clear waters still have their raw and quaint charm. The best part is that you have no shortage of beach options no matter your taste or budget!

You have resorts with beach parties if you want to drink plenty of booze and dance until dawn. On more commercialized beaches, dabble in thrilling water sports and other adventures offered.

But if you want to laze on a quiet beach, you have offbeat options as well. From untouched secret coves, calm islands away from the mainland, and beaches by the lush forest, Malaysia has you covered. No matter where you go, the country’s striking blue waters will not disappoint you.

Among the vast variety of beaches in Malaysia, here are some top picks for you:

Tanjung Bungah

If water activities are your thing, stop by this beach on Penang Island. Here, you can go kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. What’s more, is that various establishments also surround Tanjung Bungah.

There are top-tier restaurants, luxurious resorts, and shopping places nearby. Stop by the Tanjung Bungah Market for souvenirs and authentic Malaysian foods. And minutes away is the Penang Toy Museum, a unique visit for anyone regardless of age.

Perhentian Islands

For a taste of the unspoiled allure of Malaysia’s beaches, this is your destination. Perhentian Islands were once inhabited by a few people. It has developed slowly over the years, still retaining its natural beauty.

Enjoy a slow afternoon by the palm-fringed shorelines while sipping a drink or two. You can also immerse yourself in nature here, whether under the sea or on land.

Kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling tours are a must-try on this quaint island. You can also go on organized trekking through the thick jungle on the island.

Kota Kinabalu

If you want to go off the grid for a bit, the rustic beach life that Kota Kinabalu has to offer is right up your alley. There are no world-class resorts and amenities here. You only get the best of what the immaculate beaches and forests have to offer.

You cannot expect to get a stable connection here, but there is electricity and running water. There are bungalows, some places to eat, and a diving center for visitors.

This is a perfect destination to relish the swaying palms and the soft and powdery sand in peace. Snorkeling and diving are some of the activities you can do here. But hiking through the rugged trails to caves and lush, forested cliffs is a must-try too.

Stunning Cultural Landmarks

When coming to Malaysia, you must take advantage of their one-of-a-kind and diverse culture. You can find their rich history almost everywhere you turn. But one of the best ways to learn more about Malaysia and its people is by visiting cultural places.

Here are some of the must-see popular cultural heritage spots of the country:

This place is a natural wonder and cultural landmark combined. A large, golden statue of Lord Murugan. What lies beyond is a century-old temple on a limestone hill.

The vibrant colors of Batu Caves are a striking contrast to the lush greenery around. Batu Caves is only about a 20-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur, thus, it attracts tourists year-round.

Crystal Mosque

With Islam being the official religion of Malaysia, you will find mosques everywhere. But the most unique of them all is the Crystal mosque. The structure itself is a tourist attraction, but it is also part of the Islamic Heritage park.

What makes this mosque stand out is its impressive exterior, as it is made with steel, crystal, and glass. On a sunny day, the sun’s rays illuminate the most as if the domes are shining.

Kek Lok Si Temple

This temple is not only well-known for being one of the largest temples in Southeast Asia. Kek Lok Si also boasts the finest and most intricate exteriors and interiors. Here you will find murals and sculptures of the teachings of Buddhism.

Captivating Natural Attractions

Malaysia leaves its tourists mesmerized by its wide array of attractions. But what stands out for this stunning nation is its effort to preserve its natural beauty. From quaint little towns to opulent rainforests, the scenic views will take your breath away.

One unique place to visit is the Sasaran Sky Mirror, near the Jeram Fishing village. As the name suggests, this place makes it seem like the ground is continuous with the sky. The clear and shallow waters of the place are perfect for taking artsy pictures to show off on your social media.

The Belum Rainforest is also one of the hidden gems of Malaysia. It is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, and there are campsites for visitors to spend the night. Enjoy yourself by going on a boat right, bird-watching, zip-lining, and more.

If you want to get lost in nature, the Chemorong Forest Reserve is the place to go. Unspoiled and often less traveled to, the forest offers a serene vibe for its visitors. Surround yourself with lush greenery, take a dip in crystal clear waters, and discover stunning waterfalls too.

Which Is Better – Thailand or Malaysia?

One cannot deny that both Thailand and Malaysia are Southeast Asian powerhouses for tourism. The two countries boast vibrant city life, alluring beaches, lush landscapes, and more. But while they are alike in many ways, each caters best to a different type of tourist.

Thailand has more tourist attractions, and they are better at indulging their visitors. There is an island for backpackers on a budget and for those who want a luxurious trip. You can go to one island for water activities, another for jungle trekking, and so on.

If you love partying, Thailand is undoubtedly your best bet. The nation’s night scene is well-known worldwide and is one of the reasons  many flock to the country. They have various establishments and entertainments for every nighttime pleasure seeker.

Malaysia also has a vibrant nightlife, though it is not as crazy when compared to Thailand. Instead, what attracts tourists to Malaysia is its food, well-preserved nature, and adventures.

With this, Malaysia is best for those who want a more laid-back experience in Southeast Asia. This is the place to go if you are a foodie who wants to try dishes from various cultures. Malaysia is also your best bet if you want a quaint beach life or if you are an adventurous nature lover.

There is a lot to do in Malaysia’s impeccable beaches and lush forests. Scuba diving, hiking, and caving are only the tip of the iceberg. Thailand also has these, but Malaysia offers a less commercialized experience.

Which Is Safer – Thailand or Malaysia?

While both countries are generally safe for tourists, Malaysia is slightly safer. The biggest threat you will face when visiting these countries is bag snatching. In Thailand where some areas can get crowdy, the risk for travelers goes up a notch.

Other than that, you must be wary of tourist scams as well. Usually, someone will ask you to go with them and take you somewhere else.

Again, these are more rampant in busier tourist areas. But in other quieter places in both countries, you are less likely to encounter these.

But these crimes are everywhere, no matter where you go. Thus, these should not deter you from planning a trip to Thailand or Malaysia. Compared to other ASEAN countries, they are still one of the safest for tourists to visit.

Is Malaysia or Thailand Cheaper?

Many find Thailand to be cheaper than Malaysia, but there is only a slight price difference. With this, both are cost-effective options for your next holiday. But Malaysia can be way more costly depending on how you spend your time in the country.

With this, your finances will depend on what you want to do for your trip. To start, you must get a baseline of the average costs you’ll be expecting in each country for your vacation.

A hotel or hostel for a single person in Thailand is $28, while in Malaysia, this will cost you $37. Meals in Thailand for a day are about $13, and in Malaysia, they will be $14. Transportation costs in Thailand are around $10, a bit more costly than Malaysia’s $9.95.

As you can see, you’ll have roughly the same amount of expenses in both countries. But where Malaysia gets expensive is their nightlife costs.

In Thailand, you will spend about $14 for entertainment, while in Malaysia, this will be around $17. If you like drinking, Malaysia will charge you two to four times more for booze than in Thailand.

Is Malaysia Richer Than Thailand?

Between the two countries, Malaysia is richer than Thailand. To determine the richness of a country, looking at one’s GDP is the standard.

Thailand has a bigger economy compared to Malaysia, as they have a bigger GDP. But why is the latter considered richer than the former?

You still have to view the GDP per capita across both countries to get a clearer view of their wealth. And since Malaysia has a smaller population than Thailand, the former is richer.

The GDP nominal per capita and GDP PPP per capita of Malaysia is still much higher than in Thailand. What this tells you is that each person from Malaysia is more economically productive than one from Thailand. And when compared to the USD, the currency of Malaysia is also much stronger than that of Thailand.

Thus, the income distribution in Malaysia is much better. The people of the country have better living standards and are generally more well off.

Is Malaysia More Developed Than Thailand?

Because Malaysia is a richer country, it is also more developed than Thailand. More Malaysians than Thais live above the poverty line, as you can expect.

The most striking difference in their development is their infrastructure.

In Thailand, Bangkok’s infrastructure is on par with Malaysia’s. But this is only limited to that city, unfortunately. In rural areas, especially the northern area, Thailand is still underdeveloped.

Meanwhile in Malaysia, the infrastructure is spread throughout the country. Kuala Lumpur may be the best of all, but the other states also have advanced development. Penang, Johor, and Malaka, to name a few, are sustainable.

Other than that, recreational amenities are also distributed throughout Malaysia. Whereas in Thailand, you can only go to Bangkok and a few other cities for this. And only Chiang Mai can challenge the city capital in this regard.

While Malaysia is more developed, Thailand, specifically Bangkok, is more advanced as a tourist hub. They have more amenities, Michelin Star restaurants, finer luxurious hotels, and more. Thailand does a better job of giving its tourists a delightful vacation.

Malaysia or Thailand for Honeymoon

For a honeymoon trip, Malaysia is the better option. Both countries have golden beaches, blue-green seas, and picturesque landscapes. But Malaysia’s tourist attractions are more catered to couples.

Langkawi and Pangkor Island are two of the top destinations for a honeymoon. You can enjoy the long coastlines of powdery sands in a laid-back and idyllic setting. Kayaking and snorkeling are also some of the top activities for couples here.

There are also a lot of thrilling yet wholesome activities to do in Malaysia.

You can go for a hot-air balloon ride and as newlyweds. Go on an airplane ride over Kuala Lumpur for a unique experience. If you’re looking for something more thrilling, go on a tandem skydive together.

While Thailand can be a romantic getaway too, amenities and activities for couples are more limited. If you want a livelier honeymoon, you may prefer Thailand. But you can expect a more fast-paced and buzzing atmosphere in this vibrant nation.

Malaysia wins this, as it offers a more intimate experience with your spouse.

Is Malaysia in Thailand?

Malaysia is not in Thailand, as they are two separate countries. Both are part of mainland Southeast Asia, sitting beside each other. The border of the two countries is in the south of Thailand and the north of Malaysia.

Is Malaysia Close to Thailand?

These two countries are beside each other on mainland Southeast Asia. They have a land boundary called the Malaysia-Thailand border.

Malaysia to Thailand Distance

The flight distance from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Bangkok, Thailand, is 745 miles (1199 km). So if you are traveling by air, the estimated flight duration is around 1 hour and 55 minutes.

But if you are traveling by land, the distance between the two cities is 958 miles (1542 km). Your travel time will be around 18 hours and 24 minutes if you choose this option.

Thailand Time Zone vs. Malaysia Time Zone

Thailand follows UTC+7:00, while Malaysia follows UTC+8:00. Thus, the former is an hour behind the latter.

Where Is the Border Between Thailand and Malaysia?

The border between the two countries is near the Padang Besar checkpoint. This border town is in the south of Thailand and to the north of Malaysia. Padang Besar is the sole rail link between the two countries.

Malaysia and Thailand Land Border Crossing

There are plenty of Malaysia-Thailand border crossings dotting the two countries. But only seven of them are open to international visitors.

Padang Besar is one of them, and you can travel to and from both countries here by road or train. Should you want a different border crossing, here are your options:

• Wang Kelian (MY) to Wang Prachan (TH)
• Bukit Kayu Hitam (MY) to Ban Dan Nok (TH)
• Pengkalan Hulu / Bukit Berapit (MY) to Betong (TH)
• Bukit Bunga (MY) to Buketa (TH)
• Rantau Panjang (MY) to Sungai Kolok (TH)

When crossing any border, you need to prepare your visa and fees (if applicable), passport pictures, and your passport. Do take note that some border crossings may take you a while to cross.

Bukit Kayu Hitam (MY) to Ban Dan Nok (TH) often sees delays. This is because it’s on a direct motorway to the City of Angels, Bangkok.

Meanwhile, Pengkalan Hulu / Bukit Berapit (MY) to Betong (TH) is one of the busiest borders. Although the process for formalities is pretty straightforward.

How to Get From Malaysia to Thailand

Traveling by plane to Thailand from Malaysia is the fastest option for you. It may cost you a bit, but AirAsia offers cheap plane tickets for budget travelers. They are also reliable, so you don’t need to go with flag carrier airlines.

But because Malaysia and Thailand are beside each other, you can also travel by sea or by land.

If you choose to travel by sea, you need to take a ferry from Langkawi. This will take you to Tammalang pier in Satun, Thailand. Immigration stations are present in both for you to get stamped in and out of the countries.

If you wish to travel by land, you can do so via car, bus, or train. Keep in mind that travel costs can stack up with public transportation. And this option will take you much longer to get to your destination.

Malaysia to Thailand Flight Time

Flying to Malaysia from Thailand and vice versa only takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes. This may cost more than traveling by land, but this is the best and fastest way to travel between the two countries.

Malaysia to Thailand Flight Ticket Price

Flight ticket prices from Malaysia to Thailand can range from $40 to $250. The pricing will depend on which airports you go through, your airline, and if you are making stops.

When you plan your trip also matters here. The high seasons of Thailand are around June and July. Meanwhile, the cheapest month to visit the country is on February.

Thailand to Malaysia by Ferry

You have two options to go to Malaysia from Thailand by sea. Both Koh Lipe and Satun can be your starting point. Either one of them will be fine as ferries there will still take you to Langkawi Ferry.

Ferries from Koh Lipe in Trang Hat Yao pier go to Langkawi several times a day. But they only operate during the high season, which is around early October to early June. If your trip is outside of these months, you may ride a speedboat there instead.

The ferry cost from Koh Lipe to Langkawi is about $26 to $31.

You’ll have to go through immigration officers in Pattaya beach to get stamped out of Thailand. The staff there will guide you to a longtail boat and take you to Langkawi. Go through Malaysian Immigration and then get stamped into the country.

Meanwhile, ferries from Satun in Tammlang pier run each day, though they only make two to four trips. From Satun, the ferry cost to Langkawi is about $10.

You get stamped out of Thailand on the same pier, and then go to Langkawi onboard a ferry. Once you arrive, the process mentioned above follows.

Malaysia to Thailand by Land

You can travel by car or train through the Padang Besar checkpoint. If you choose the former, you can go through the drive-through lanes. If you go for the latter, both nations’ immigration stations are in the same railway station.

If you go through Wang Kelian, you must take a taxi to go there and get stamped by Malaysian immigration. Now walk to the Thai immigration station nearby for formalities. Once you get stamped in, take public transport out of town and get a bus to go to your destination.

To go through Rantau Panjang, you must take a bus to get there and then walk to cross the border. Once you get to Sungai Kolok in Thailand, take another bus to your next stop. You can also travel via car, as both immigration stations are near the bridge.

You can also cross this border by taking a train to Pasir Mas, the nearest station to the border. Once there, take a bus or taxi to Rantau Panjang. You can take a train once you cross Sungai Kolok.

These are only some of your options to get to Thailand from Malaysia. Crossing other border areas pretty much follows the same flow.

Train From Malaysia to Thailand

When traveling by train from Malaysia to Thailand, you’ll have to get to the Padang Besar on the Thai border. From Kuala Lumpur, you can take an ETS train to get there directly. Keep in mind that there are only two to three scheduled journeys a day, so plan ahead.

Getting to Padang Besar on the ETS train takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes. Once you get there, you need to transfer to a different trail line to get to Thailand. At Padang Besar, you can get stamped out of Malaysia and stamped into Thailand.

Another option is to also take a shuttle train to Hat Yai in southern Thailand. You can always travel all the way up to Bangkok from there.

If you go straight to Bangkok, you’ll take an overnight train journey that lasts 17 hours. First-class sleepers are best for couples, while second-class is best for solo travelers.

You have two convenient stop options from here on. One is Bang Sue station, and the other is the final stop, Hua Lamphong station. Both connect to MRT underground systems to take you to your destination.

You can also take a taxi, tuk-tuk, or the rail system too.

Malaysia to Thailand Distance by Train

The distance between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia to Bangkok in Thailand by train is 738 miles (1187 km). Thus, you will need to spend the night on a train to travel. Keep in mind that there is no direct train between the two countries, you need to switch lines at Padang Besar.

Malaysia to Thailand Train Ticket Price

ETS trains from Kuala Lumpur to Padang Besar costs around $13 to $26. Prices will depend on your route time, as there will be a different train transport name for each.

Tickets from Padang Besar to Bangkok depend on the berth of your choosing. For the upper berth, it’ll cost you around $26. For the lower berth, the price is $23.

If you are traveling with a child, their train fare is cheaper. You can pay $21 for the upper berth and $19 for the lower berth.

All in all, the trip from Malaysia to Thailand by train is around $36 to $52 for a solo adult. Take note that this does not include transport costs once you arrive in Thailand.

Thailand to Malaysia by Road

You can travel from Thailand to Malaysia by road via car or bus. Between the two options, taking a bus ride between two countries is the easiest one. Traveling via car may sound appealing, but there are many caveats to consider.

If you choose to travel by bus, you first need to reach Hat Yai City. This is in southern Thailand, near the border with Malaysia. Once you’re in Hat Yai, the bus will take you to another bus station. From there, you can buy tickets to head toward Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.

If you choose to travel by car, though, you first need an International Driving Permit. Second, you need to have your own car as rental cars aren’t allowed to cross the border. But if you have both, you can cross the borders. The border control agents will ask for your passport, vehicle fees, and car insurance.

Malaysia to Thailand by Bus

To travel from Malaysia to Thailand by bus, you need to switch buses throughout your journey. First, you need to take a bus from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia to Hat Yai in Thailand.

Several bus companies offer this route. Prices will vary between luxury express, executive, or VIP buses. The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Hat Yai will take you around 8 hours. But this will depend on traffic and your time at the Sadao border crossing.

Once you reach Hat Yai, you’ll get taken to the bus station. Although many buses will continue to drive to the city center.

From the Hat Yai bus station, you can take a bus to move up to Bangkok in Thailand. You can either choose government-run bus companies or more luxurious VIP ones. There will be agents selling tickets throughout the terminal, so you won’t have trouble catching a bus.

Traveling from Hat Yai to the capital city of Bangkok will take around 13 hours. Thus, you need to prepare for overnight travel.

How Many Hours From Malaysia to Thailand by Bus?

Bus travel from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia to Bangkok in Thailand will be around 21 hours. Eight hours will go into traveling from the capital to Hat Yai. Then the remaining 13 hours will be from Hat Yai to Bangkok.

Keep in mind that many factors will affect your travel time. Traffic, for example, will eat up a lot of your time on the road. With this, you can cut your travel time down to 9 to 10 hours if you travel at night.

Malaysia to Thailand Bus Ticket Price

Bus prices from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia to Hat Yai in Thailand are around $14 to $21. If you plan to go to the capital of Thailand, you need to take another bus for $20 to $28.

Can You Drive From Thailand to Malaysia?

Getting to Malaysia from Thailand is possible, but only if you own the vehicle and have it registered in Thailand. If you have a car registered in another country, you will have to follow extra steps. Rental cars are not allowed, and most car rental companies will have this in their contract.

To travel by car, you need to get to the Sadao border crossing via the AH2 highway. Once you reach the Thai border, park your car and bring your passport with you to the passport control booth. Here, you’ll get stamped out of Thailand and then you can go back to your car.

Turn back to the driveway you entered in and make your way to the Malaysian border. Drive to the Malaysian passport control booth with your passport and surrender it at the window. You’ll need to pay private vehicle fees here as well.

Border Patrol agents will inspect and search your car. After that, drive through the tourist information building and park there.

This is where you can get Malaysian car insurance if you haven’t already. This will cost you about $32 per month.

After these, you can now drive to Malaysia freely!

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Thailand vs malaysia: if you can only choose one.

Thailand and Malaysia share a border and are two of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destinations, but they are still distinctly different. I’d recommend a long visit to both, but if time is an issue, I’d hate to rush either country. There’s just too much to see and do! So if visiting both isn’t going to work out for you, which country should you choose? Well, that depends on you and what you want to get out of it. I’ve broken down some of the main items and highlights, comparing them between the two countries to help make your decision just a bit easier.

Eating Travelers vary when it comes to their favorite types of activities. Some like physical outdoor activities, other enjoy cultural immersion and still others like a resort beach, but most all share one thing in common, a love for food. The plethora of dishes in Southeast Asia can keep a traveler busy all on their own, but which country holds the crown?

The food in Malaysia can’t be simply classified as Malaysian food. Due to the country’s ethnic diversity, Malaysian, Chinese and Indian food together combine to make up the country’s cuisine. Lucky for travelers, this variety, as well as a mixing of elements from each, keeps fresh new tastes on your palate each day. Head for Kota Bharu’s night market to eat the national dish, Nasi Lemak, with your hands. Go to the colonial streets of Penang for the island’s famous fish-based soup, Penang Laksa. Or head to KL’s Little India for a simply yet exceedingly satisfying breakfast of Roti Canai.

So simple. So Good. Thai Food

While Malaysia has a mixture of cuisines, Thailand has one all its own. Thai food is known the world over and is regularly listed among the best in the world. This is, of course, for good reason. Unlike many countries, travelers regularly spend months in Thailand and still aren’t crying for more variety, although tears may come from the spices. Pad Thai, Papaya Salad, Tom Yum, Mango Sticky Rice, Pad See Ew and a reggae colored offering of curry combine to keep thousands of travelers appetites at bay day after day. Not only are the dishes numerous, but the food carts are as well. Every city which hopes to be considered Thai has streets lined with food carts selling all the aforementioned dishes at a dirt cheap prices. It’s a food lovers paradise and claims my vote. Winner: Thailand

Trekking What kind of trip to Southeast Asia would be complete without going outside and tromping around in some of the natural beauty the region has on display? Heck, some people come to the area with the sole purpose in mind, and for good reason. The trekking here can take one’s breath away.

Thailand is the most convenient option. The country’s original and flagship national park, Khao Yai, is just a day’s trip from Bangkok and one can expect a jungle trek to reveal a plethora of wildlife. Wild elephants are the most sought after, but I also saw the craziest, and biggest, bugs of my life. I couldn’t believe they were real. Another short trip to Kanchanaburi, brings travelers to the doorstep of more national parks and some worthwhile waterfalls, which are main cause to the unofficial label of most beautiful province in the country.

Get deep in the jungles of Malaysia

While Thailand’s trekking is convenient, trekking in Malaysia can be more rewarding. It is the real deal. While short treks are definitely an option, Malaysia also caters perfectly for those seeking a hike that will push them to their limits, both physicaly and mentally. Want to see the world’s largest flower, the elusive Rafflesia? We thought so. Head to Sarawak’s Gunung Gading. How about one of the thickest, not to mention THE oldest jungle in the world? Malaysia’s Taman Negara is the spot (watch out for those leeches). Looking for the ultimate challenge? Climbing the 4,000 meter high Mount Kinabalu, a multi-day undertaking, may fit the bill. Winner: Malaysia

Island Hoping/Diving When people day dream about visiting Southeast Asia, the most common image that comes to mind is a tropical, palm fringed beach nestled against aqua green waters teaming with Nemo fish. Snorkeling, diving, and working on a tan are top of the list attractions in the region.

Thailand or Malaysia? Both have water this warm and clear

Once again, Thailand has it all. The sheer number of islands to choose from provide something for every type of traveler. Big, flashy resorts occupy some of the best white sand beaches, while small backpacker havens have chosen other spots to settle in and flourish. Some islands are busy, loud and party all night. Others are remote, untouched by tourism and still rely on roosters for alarm clocks. Those looking to learn to dive look no further than Koh Tao, handing on PADI certifications on the daily. More experienced divers looking for a life experience can take up residence on a live aboard and head out on the Andaman Sea and the pristine Mergui Archipelago.

Whatever Thai islands boast, Malaysia matches them punch for punch. The east coast of Peninsular Malaysia is also island fringed. Tourism has found many of them leaving a trail of development in its wake, but there are still islands seemingly lost out there where fishing boats make up just about all the traffic (Palau Kapas… shhh) . Big budget resorts stand proud on Palau Tioman while the young and budget conscience head to the Perhentian islands. Dive centers also populate each island offering a chance to explore below the surface for as little as $20 a dive (wha???), but if one is looking for absolute world-class diving and has the budget to back it up, there is arguably no better spot in the world than Borneo’s Sipadan Island. Literally, no better spot. Winner: Draw

Partying You have one month to blow in Southeast Asia and you have one main objective, to have a good time. For you, a good time can only mean one thing. You want to party. More specifically, you want to party your face off. Dance in loud clubs and on beaches until the sun rises.

Malaysia holds a few gems in this regard. Obviously, the international mega city, Kuala Lumpur, has its share of happening bars and clubs, but the prices may get to you. Being an Islamic country, alcohol is heavily taxed. Oddly, a beer will run you more than a cocktail in many bars. Luckily, the island of Langkawi is tax free and offers a good time at a fraction of the cost. Unfortunately, its only one island in a large country.

All the buckets you can handle on Phi Phi

Of our two countries this is truly a no contest. Lets be real. Thailand wins hands down. For starters, Bangkok’s nightlife offers the full range of choices. From the uber-classy and pricey Skybar looking over the whole city, to the clubbing backpacker mecca of Khao San Road, to Patpong’s darker secrets, Bangkok carters to all. After a few days in the city, head to the tropical waters of the Thai islands. Koh Phangan attracts thousands each month to the infamous fire-fueled all-night Full Moon Party. Next in popularity is the beautiful Koh Phi Phi islands that even Leonardo DeCaprio couldn’t resist. Lose your sandals (I swear I didn’t do that :/) as you dance the night away only to wake up hungover just in time to discover a booze cruise on your agenda. Partying is a staple for the Land of Smiles. Winner: Thailand

Convenience First time travelers and backpackers regularly head to Southeast Asia because of the ease of travel. It’s a developing region, but its safe, cheap and transportation is usually not too difficult to arrange. Solo travelers are also extremely common.

Neither country can be described as difficult to navigate, but a few differences make Malaysia slightly easier, by however small a margin. First off, Malaysia is actually more developed than Thailand. Cars are more common than motorbikes and shopping malls, fast food restaurants and modern grocery stores can be found outside the major cities. Even official taxis are nearly everywhere replacing the tuk tuks and songthaews in Thailand. Lastly, nearly all Malaysians speak some level of English and many speak it extremely well. This could be due to the already diverse language scene of an ethnically diverse country, the fact that many of their TV programs are aired in English, or because their written language uses a Latin alphabet. That last reason also helps travelers with navigation and helps with remembering and pronouncing foreign words, something impossible in regards to the Thai written language. Winner: Malaysia (by a hair)

Costs Southeast Asia is known as a budget destination. Travelers can live like kings for cheap compared to Western standards or can live on pennies and travel for months on end. Both Thailand and Malaysia fit this bill. More touristic locations will require a larger budget while spots off the beaten trail will present surprisingly minuscule costs of living. There is, however, one major difference which causes many fellow travelers to view Malaysia as a much more expensive destination, the price of alcohol. As mentioned previously, Malaysia taxes the sale of alcohol heavily and drinks are more comparable to western prices than in most other parts of the region. Something to keep in mind as many enjoy the occasional beer while traveling away from home and those that enjoy the frequent beer will surely take notice. Winner: Draw (Thailand if alcohol is a large part of your budget)

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19 thoughts on “ Thailand vs Malaysia: If You Can Only Choose One ”

Pretty comprehensive review. Thanks.

No problem. Glad to help

Fantastic article! Very well written. Just thought I’d tell you. thanks for the info. We’re in Thailand now and heading to Malaysia in a few days. Following you on Facebook now. glad I found your site.

Awesome, enjoy Malaysia. Both countries are amazing

I would certainly agree on winners of eating and convenience. A great and unbias comparison between two lovely SEA nation. I just notice you haven’t visited Philippines yet, 7107 islands awaits you there 🙂

I know, I know. No Philippines for me… yet!

Hey! I’m currently choosing Malaysia or Thailand for summer and I loved this article! I have been looking up diving packages in Malaysia and I can’t seem to find any that are relatively cheap (around $300 like Thailand) online. What prices should I expect? and if I do go to Malaysia should I just get my accommodation once I arrive at Perhentian island and the diving course? Or should I try to book online? I’m looking for something super budget friendly. Thanks!

Hey Vanessa,

I didn’t even look for diving packages online before going to the Perhentians. You can just show up and walk down to the dive shops and book stuff for the next day. As far as accommodation, I’d head to Long Beach. There is a ton of affordable stuff over there. I didn’t book ahead of time there either. You should check out my article on the Perhentian Islands here: http://www.onewayticketphil.com/the-perhentian-islands-on-a-backpacker-budget/

Malaysia is often considered the best country in Asia for food, the sheer diversity and stuff, although Thailand is really good, I would say Malaysia by a whisker personally. Want authentic Indian? Malaysia has it all. There’s Chinese, Malay and distinctly Malaysian food that is a fusion of all. Malaysia also has all the western chains that you count want and other Asian cuisines.

For traditional culture I’d say Thailand is more interesting, although Malay culture is interesting. I enjoy the architecture of Thailand, the ornate wats etc. Malaysia has a mix of mostly colonial, modern, some traditional and Chinese and Indian (temples).

For nature, Malaysia wins easily. Most of Thailand’s rainforest is long gone, while Malaysia still retains quite a bit, from Taman Negara NP on the peninsula mainland to Borneo, which to me is probably the best place in SEA for nature that is accessible. You have rainforests, beaches, coral reefs (certainly more pristine and less crowded than most of Thailand’s), and mountains like Kinabalu that are far higher than anything you’ll find in Thailand.

Another thing in Malaysia’s favour is that it’s wealthier, infrastructure throughout the country is good (unlike Thailand outside BKK). Although in Thailand’s favour if you want a more ‘authentic’ rustic Asian experience the countryside there is more traditional, although some Malay kampongs are pretty traditional still.

Both are definitely worth a visit, not an either/or thing. They’re so different you have to see. Both are among the best countries in SEA for a holiday, imo, all things considered. Malaysia is a better introduction to Asia, while I feel Thailand is more exotic.

Thanks for the input John. I agree with you on almost every point. I love Malaysian food’s diversity but in my book, it can’t top Thailand and its abundant street vendors. Cheers!

The differences between Thailand and Malaysia are huge. – Thai people are mainly Buddhists – Malaysians are mainly Muslim – Thailand has nicer beaches – Malaysia is more modern and westernised I’ve lived in both countries

My wife and i have been struggling with this decision for a couple weeks now. Were thinking one of the following: A. Bkk + hua hin or ko samet B. Phuket + surroundings C. KL + surroundings

Couldnt find a site subjectively comparing cost, conveyance, food, beach, jungle etc etc. You missed architecture, but one good soul covered it in the comments. Now if youd be so kind as to tell me what to expect from the locals. Ive been to bkk half a dozen times. The locals are all smiles, polite and helpful. Ive been told that same thai hospitality is absent in phuket. And i know nothing of kl. Is there anything you could share with me?

On a completely unrelated topic, youre well travelled, but how have you bypassed vietnam?

Keep blogging. This is super stuff. Thank you!

Sorry for the delay. Your comment somehow slipped by me. I can’t speak to the people in Phuket, but I can talk about KL. From my memory, I don’t recall a strong tendency toward either extreme. You’re correct, BKK is all smiles and KL locals don’t stand out as friendly on quite that same level, however, that doesn’t mean they are on the opposite extreme. I do think they are a little less in awe of foreigners as they are a slightly more developed country, making them less likely to drop everything and help you out, but also not minding your presence either.

Hi Phil, great post. It’s good to have a clear idea of the similarities and differences of countries in Southeast Asia. I set up http://aroundtheworldinaday.com which compares culture, food, weather, nightlife and much more of each country. Check it out. Would be great to hear your feedback. Thanks, Carina

Great idea for a site. Maybe once you have more countries up, you can compare more than 2 at a time

I would choooooose Malaysia!!!!! Malaysia is a wonderful country.

Hello! My boyfriend and I are deciding between Thailand and Malaysia for next December. I have a few questions regarding costs: 1- hostal or hotel prices, which one is cheaper? 2- when does the high season start? 3- I’ve heard that Thailand has many thieves or people who try to rip you off, is it true? Is malaysia better or worse in that sense? 4- we are going for three months, 1month and a half of it is financed by an ong (only food money and where we stay). How much money would you recommend, with no crazy luxuries included? 5- we are chilean, is there a discriminatory problem in either of these countries? Thanks!

Thailand has cheaper accommodations by far. High season starts usually in right in early December.

3) I have lived in both places as a resident and do not believe what you hear about Thailand. It’s rubbish. Stay away from the touristy areas and the locals are as honest as the day is long….For example it is almost impossible to tip the maid in your room, if you leave money on the pillow, she will fold it neatly and put it on your desk…most Thais are very honest.

4) you can easily live on $15 US dollars a day in Bangkok but maybe $25 per day in Kuala Lumpur. Out side of the cities it is cheaper in both places. There is no issue with discrimination…but in Thailand they value respect over anything else, if you respect their customs and act politely they will love you. Malaysia more difficult answer because it is a tri-segregated society socially…harder to meet locals.

Just to say thanks – this article is great and super helpful!

Comments are closed.

Malaysia or Thailand?

Where to spend your beach holiday – malaysia or thailand.

For those of us who are lucky enough to have the opportunity to go on beach holidays, the first question we ask ourselves is often which country should we go to. As promised when we presented our new Malaysia travel guide , we want to help you compare two of the big tropical beach holiday destinations, Malaysia and Thailand, to make your holiday choice easier.

Why Malaysia or Thailand?

If you wonder, why we have chosen to compare these two great beach destinations, here is why. First of all, travel agencies and travel professionals often receive this as the initial question from their customers: “Should we choose Malaysia or Thailand for our holiday?”. Secondly, these countries are very often competing for the same visitors, since they both bring some of the same great beach holiday opportunities, and being neighbouring countries, travel seasons and travel distance is similar.

The Malaysia and Thailand Showdown

Before we go through each of the scores and compare Malaysia and Thailand on the chosen parameters, we want to remind readers that the evaluations represent a general evaluation of the two countries. Here we have considered Malaysia to be both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, although the characteristics of these two areas are rather different.

You may seek a family-friendly beach or a surfing beach-bum paradise. Ultimately, which beach destination is best for your holiday, depends just as much on your personal travel preferences as the destination itself.

Beaches: Malaysia vs. Thailand

Both Malaysia and Thailand have fantastic beaches, ranging from popular tourist magnets to secluded beaches on “untamed” islands. With a great variety and number of beaches within easy geographical reach, Thailand has a small edge here.

Malaysia Beach Score         

The number of islands and beaches of Peninsular Malaysia is relatively low in comparison to Thailand, and given strong seasonal limitations on the east coast, the options can be rather limited. However, if we add Malaysian Borneo to the mix, we suddenly have a hundreds of stunning islands in different development stages and in more or less accessible areas.

Thailand Beach Score         

Southern Thailand has an abundance of islands and beaches fitted with fine sand, dramatic rock formations, swaying palm trees, clear water, and everything you could ever wish for in terms of services and conveniences. Additionally, the beaches of Thailand cover all activities and adventures you can think of and it doesn’t take much to go from one type of beach or island to another one.

It’s hard to beat the islands and beaches of Thailand.

Photo credit: Tourism Authority of Thailand

Hotels: Malaysia vs. Thailand

It is not uncommon that tourists stumble upon a hotel that enchant them to such a degree that the host country is of little importance. Whether this is the case or not, one thing is certain: The hotel has a significant role in tourists’ beach choice. To receive a high hotel evaluation, the diversity, price, and value for money is taken into account. Without question, Thailand is a world leader in this category.

We used to write small warnings in our Malaysia travel catalogues that customers should not expect a 3-star Malaysian hotel to measure up to a 3-star Thai hotel. This is more due to Thailand’s superiority on this parameter than Malaysia being under international standard.

Malaysia Hotel Score         

You can find exclusive eco-retreats on small tropical islands and you can find uncharming concrete hotels with uninspiring designs. The portfolio of beach accommodation is improving, but the value for money is not on par with Thailand. Furthermore, it is harder to find budget and mid-range charm among Malaysian hotels. For a real good hotel experience, you have to move into the four and five star range.

Thailand Hotel Score         

The competition among hotels in Thailand is fierce. This coupled with a good sense of quirky design and high service standards make Thailand score maximum on hotel quality and value. A 3-star hotel in Thailand can often be compared to a 4-star hotel in Europe or America. You can easily find accommodation for all budgets, and even in the cheapest beach bungalows you can find charming architecture and design wit.

Not the worst place to spend your holiday in Thailand.

Prices: Malaysia vs. Thailand

No doubt relative prices continue to rise, as both Malaysia and Thailand continue a path of economic growth and investments both in and outside the tourism sector. Prices fluctuate a lot between city and rural areas and between touristy and non-touristy destinations. Overall, however, Thailand still offers superb value for money.

While cheaper than European countries and North America, Malaysia is generally more expensive than the other Southeast Asian countries.

An excellent resource in finding user generated price information in destinations worldwide is NUMBEO .

Malaysia Prices Score         

Traveling through Malaysia, you will find that food is quite cheap, while accommodation is more expensive and less value than other Southeast Asian countries outside of Singapore. Malaysian Borneo’s unique position in terms of experiences and natural wonders have pushed prices upwards. The good news is that it is still possible to experience Malaysia on a backpacker budget, but you will have to sacrifice some convenience and luxury along the way.

Thailand Prices Score         

With the rise of the Thai middle-class, expatriates, and tourists from near and far, both financial and tourist hubs of Thailand are now much more expensive than just five years ago. This means that Bangkok, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, and Phuket can come off as expensive.

But don’t despair. Instead of going to Starbucks and Domino’s, go to a local pad thai restaurant. Instead of sleeping at Hyatt, sleep at one of the many charming boutique guesthouses. Go a little off-beat to avoid the price traps. Thailand has great prices for those who look for them, and the most beautiful thing is that being a beach bum here is one of the cheapest lifestyles you can dream of. Food is cheap, transportation is cheap, accommodation is cheap, and adventures are often free. For documentation, see our previous notes on daily beach holiday costs in Thailand .

Eat local, stay local! Thailand offers tremendous value.

Food: Malaysia vs. Thailand

How good is Malaysian food? How does it compare to Thai food? This is obviously a very subjective topic, but at least we are not alone in thinking that both countries serve some of the world’s best food. Thailand and Malaysia are both in the top 10 food destinations in the world in this CNN poll .

Malaysia Food Score         

What makes Malaysian food great? The variety of choice and fresh ingredients! Since Malaysia consists of major cultural and ethnic groups, you can find excellent Chinese, Indian, Western, and of course Malay/Indonesian dishes in abundance. For vegetarians eating is easy because of the Indian vegetarian cuisine and the fresh fruits and vegetables grown locally.

Thailand Food Score         

The popularity of Thai food is now covering the world with Thai takeaways and restaurants from Buenos Aires to Sydney. But the best Thai food is found in Thailand. Food is an integral part of Thai social life, and when a common greeting in Thailand is “Have you eaten yet?”, food has to be a top priority. What is fantastic about the Thai cuisine is the harmonious blend of spices, sweet, sour, and salty. But if you don’t like chili, lemongrass, and galanga, you will mostly be limited to the “foreignized” and international dishes.

For vegetarians, Thailand has a lot of vegan and vegetarian restaurants that particularly sprung up in response to the tastes of visiting backpackers. In standard restaurants, however, ordering a vegetarian dish often means that fish sauce, oyster sauce, and shrimp paste will be used in otherwise meatless dishes.

You won’t leave thirsty or hungry!

Diving: Malaysia vs. Thailand

Both Malaysia and Thailand are wonderful places to learn and practice diving. Almost every popular beach has at least one dive operator, and the quality, equipment, and safety is good.

Malaysia Diving Score         

In Peninsular Malaysia the east coast is your best bet for diving. Perhentian Islands, Redang Island, and Tioman Island all have good and very accessible diving. Diving here is seasonally limited from roughly March to September.

The Sabah region of Borneo is the real reason why Malaysia must be considered a top dive destination in the world. The bio-diversity, visibility, and beauty is of supreme quality with dive destinations such as Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai, Lankayan, Layang Layang, and Sibuan leading the way.

Thailand Diving Score         

Hands up if you took your PADI Open Water Diver certificate in Thailand. Keep them up, if you took it on Koh Tao! Koh Tao is a world hub for budding scuba divers. The small island in The Gulf of Thailand offers year-round courses with dive sites right off the beaches or a small boat ride away. The water is generally clear and currents are beginner friendly. Corals and marine life around Koh Tao has deteriorated a bit although a number of organizations and awareness programmes are fighting to rejuvenate the seas.

For the best dive sites in Thailand, you have to travel to The Andaman Sea. Here you will find stunning diving between small tropical islands. It is not uncommon to find leopard sharks and manta rays. Among the best diving sites are Similan Islands, Richelieu Rock, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, and the Surin Islands. November to April has the best visibility and sea conditions.

Malaysia’s Sabah region offers formidable diving.

Photo credit: Tourism Malaysia

Wildlife: Malaysia vs. Thailand

Despite an increasing number of areas being designated as national parks in Malaysia and Thailand, the primary and secondary forests are diminishing. Farming, plantations, logging, and “development” is threatening natural treasures and wildlife in both countries. That said, Malaysia has some of the world’s oldest rainforests and extraordinary wildlife to match it. Thailand does not have the grand old rainforests, but there is still plenty of wildlife to experience under and above water.

Malaysia Wildlife Score         

Orangutans (literally men of the jungle), proboscis monkeys, tarsiers, pygmy elephants, hornbills, turtles and much more roam the natural habitats of Malaysia, particularly Borneo. Malaysia has around 500 endemic species and it’s hard to find destinations that can match the natural richness of the country. Unfortunately, there is great pressure on the natural habitats of Malaysian wildlife. Although a magical experience, it is frightening to see how the palm oil plantations are slicing through ever thinner rainforest areas.

Thailand Wildlife Score         

Thailand has impressive marine life and no less than 127 national parks with a diverse range of flora and fauna. You do not find the grand old rainforests and hallmark wild species as in Malaysian Borneo, but there is plenty of wildlife to enjoy in Thailand.

Only in Borneo – Malaysia’s wildlife is marvelous!

More comparisons between Malaysia and Thailand?

Malaysia or Thailand? We hope you found this head to head comparison between Thailand and Malaysia useful. There is no one winner in such a battle. It all depends on what you are after. One thing is certain though: Both Malaysia and Thailand are magnificent travel countries, so we can only suggest you visit both!

If you are interested in seeing more comparisons between these two countries, we suggest you take a look at the following links.

• Thailand vs. Malaysia: If you can only choose one by Phil from OneWayTicketPhil
• Thailand vs. Malaysia (which is better?) by Mike from Traveling Mike.

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3 comments leave a comment.

[…] coming up will be a comparison between Thailand and Malaysia as travel countries and beach holiday destinations. Since these neighbouring countries are often […]

If in order to choose Malaysia or Thailand it is a very difficult choice hahaha, because they both have a tremendous appeal, especially when visiting for the holiday, thanks for the information you provide this time. By the way come also to Bali and stay at en.balijetaime.com

Honestly, if I am in order to choose Thailand or Malaysia I am very confused and this is a difficult choice, but after reading this I feel a little helpful, thank you. Regarding a beautiful holiday you can also get it while in Bali and stay at Hanginggardensofbali.com

I also explore both of these places with my friends during my last summer holidays. It was my life’s best tour. We had a blast of fun at these most amazing and alluring destination and came back with a lot of pleasant memories. Now I want to try again my thousand islands boat tours

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Malaysia vs thailand – family travel guide 2024.

Table of Contents

Which country is best for family travel in 2024? Malaysia vs Thailand. If you’re planning a trip to southeast Asia you may be weighing up Malaysia and Thailand. In this article we will give you all the highs and lows of traveling in Thailand and Malaysia with kids. 

Malaysia and Thailand both have lots of amazing things to do, incredible food and beautiful scenery. They are both very cheap and have lots to offer. However, when it comes to family travel with kids one of these countries comes out on top. 

We have traveled both Thailand and Malaysia extensively with kids. In this article we will share our experience and advice for you to help you plan your trip.

Don’t Miss our FULL GUIDE – WHAT IS IT LIKE TO TRAVEL THAILAND WITH KIDS?

Considering Cambodia? – CAMBODIA vs THAILAND with kids – which country is best?

Malaysia vs Thailand: how do you choose which country is best for you?

Before reading about the specifics of traveling Malaysia vs Thailand with your family, we would recommend you to consider your goals, aspirations and travel style. The most important thing to think about before you travel is what you really want to do. Even if a country is a little bit more tricky to travel with kids we still think it’s more important to consider your overall goals.

If you are after beautiful beaches and crystal clear Waters you can find this in both Thailand and Malaysia. Both Thailand and Malaysia have their share of stunning tropical islands. If you are interested in wildlife both Thailand and Malaysia have an array of incredible wildlife too.

• If you are hoping for an elephant encounter Thailand is your best bet. Thailand has loads of elephant sanctuaries.
• If you are hoping to see Orangutans – then it’s going to need to be Malaysia (Sabah in particular)
• To see turtles – both Thailand and Malaysia are good – but Malaysia is probably best for meeting giant see turtles (especially the Perhentian islands and Redang island)
• If you are hoping to see the elusive whale sharks then try Koh Phangan in Thailand (especially around Sail Rock in March – April time)
• If you would like to visit tea plantations then try the Cameron Highlands (but beware they can get super busy during the Malaysian holidays)

What things can you do in Thailand?  

Don’t miss our ultimate guide on THE BEST things to do in Thailand and our step by step Thailand itinerary

In brief, Thailand has many beautiful islands, lots of great viewpoints and opportunities to try snorkeling and diving. The marine national parks in the south are genuinely stunning. Thailand also has some very beautiful bigger cities with old towns. In the north of Thailand you can find jungles, waterfalls and adventure parks . Thailand also has lots of elephant sanctuaries and even an elephant hotel . Don’t miss the romantic Pai village with all of its amazing things to do . There are also some great family friendly activities around Thailand. Chiang Mai has loads of activities for kids . Near Chiang Mai you can find a great water park called the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon . There are also some smaller water parks in Bangkok.

What things can you do in Malaysia?  

Don’t miss our ultimate guide on THE BEST things to do in Malaysia

In brief, Malaysia has amazing jungles, waterfalls and wildlife. In Penang you can go trekking in the national park , visit a turtle sanctuary , climb Penang Hill and visit the innovative Habitat Eco project . Also make sure to visit the historical Georgetown . Don’t miss the stunning Perhentian islands. Malaysia has some beautiful Highlands called the Cameron Highlands, a place where tea is grown – don’t miss the Boh Tea plantations . There’s also a very beautiful Mossy Forest on the hills. If you’re planning to travel in Sabah you can also see orangutans and climb Mount Kinabalu. Malaysia also has some great theme parks for kids. Such as, Legoland in the south. There is also an amazing adventure park in Penang called Escape . Oh yeah, and of course don’t miss all of the amazing things to do in Kuala Lumpur .

Malaysia vs Thailand? Which country is better to travel with kids?

Overall, in our opinion we think Thailand is a better place for families to travel with kids. This is especially true if you are travelling on a budget. This is based on a number of different factors. But again, remember – if there are things you really want to do in Malaysia then don’t let us sway you. 

1 Malaysia vs Thailand: Accommodation for families

In Thailand it is generally very easy to get family rooms (or at least ask your hotel to add a mattress or cot to a room for a very small additional charge). In contrast, Malaysia seems to charge a lot more for family rooms or adding an extra mattress to a room. Expect to pay around double the price in order to accommodate your family in Malaysia. 

Agoda often has GREAT DEALS for family accommodation in Thailand and Malaysia

In our opinion, your money goes a lot further on accommodation in Thailand. Rooms in Malaysia tents are quite expensive for what you get. It is often common in Malaysia to find mold in cheaper rooms and you may have issues like bed bugs. Even when you feel like you’re paying quite a lot of money the rooms can be quite rough and basic in Malaysia. In contrast if you spends a reasonable amount of money in Thailand your money will go very far and you will be surprised what you can get for your money

Here is a guideline of prices for accommodation in Thailand and Malaysia

You will notice at the higher end there is not such a big difference in prices

Top tip: In Malaysia avoid hotels near mosques. The call to prayer is often very loud and starts early in the morning. Paying more for a room may not prevent this from waking you up. 

2 Malaysia vs Thailand. Amenities for families

Overall the amenities in Malaysia vs Thailand for families with kids are pretty similar. In both countries you can find some toilets with baby changing facilities. However, this is not very common. In order to find baby changing facilities you need to look in larger malls, shopping centres and more expensive restaurants.

In Malaysia they often charge for toilets. Although this is a small nominal charge, it can be very frustrating if you are running to the toilet with kids. They do charge to use some toilets in Thailand, although this is less common than in Malaysia. Another thing to be aware of is that in both countries toilet paper may be missing in some toilets. On average, more toilets in Thailand seem to have toilet paper compared to Malaysia (where toilet paper is pretty rare!). Again we recommend traveling with tissues or wet wipes in both countries. 

3 Malaysia vs Thailand. Travelling around with kids

Malaysia vs Thailand, which country is easier to get around with kids? Both Malaysia and Thailand have trains running around some parts of the country and also both countries have an extensive intercity bus service. In both countries you can find domestic flights between cities in different parts of the country. 

In our opinion, Thailand is slightly easier for getting around with kids. Firstly, it is possible to get many sleeper trains running up and down the country in Thailand (which have lockable cabins). This adds a lot of security if you’re travelling with kids. If you’re travelling with younger kids we strongly recommend that you take a first-class sleeper cabin. The bed is actually fairly wide and it is possible to share a bed with a small child. In Malaysia you can get some very comfortable buses which are great for families with kids. Malaysia also has trains connecting some cities. 

The transport system in Malaysia is more complicated and less integrated than the transport system in Thailand. Another thing that makes Malaysia challenging to travel with kids, is the long Journeys. The Malaysian long distance buses generally do not have toilets on the bus. So you normally have to wait an hour or two between stops. Having said that, many bus drivers will be kind enough to stop if you’re traveling Malaysia with kids. The most comfortable bus company in Malaysia is called aeroline. Aeroline buses tend to have large, comfortable, reclining seats. Aeroline buses in Malaysia often have toilets on board and also often serve snacks and refreshments. 

For short local journeys both Thailand and Malaysia have taxis. Grab (the taxi app) operates in both Thailand and Malaysia. Thailand has a cheaper alternative called Bolt. Prices are generally pretty similar in both countries: It normally costs £1-2 ($1.30 – $2.60) for short local taxi journeys in both countries.

GRAB IN MALAYSIA – Everything you need to know about Grab in Malaysia

GRAB IN THAILAND – Everything you need to know about Grab in Thailand

Another challenge traveling Malaysia with kids is the public holidays. Malaysia is very culturally diverse and has lots of public holidays. This can have a big effect on public transport availability and traffic. Furthermore, food places may be closed during public holidays making it harder to find food. 

Another big difference you will notice between Malaysia and Thailand. Thailand has lots of small tourism offices where you can book bus tickets, train tickets and local tours. These types of tour offices are much less common in Malaysia. 

4 Malaysia vs Thailand. Finding stuff for kids.

If you’re travelling Malaysia and Thailand with a baby you will notice a big difference. Thailand has loads of small convenience stores all over the country. 7-Eleven is the most common chain of small convenience stores in Thailand.

7-Eleven stores tend to sell a lot of very useful products for babies.  For example, in 7-Eleven stores you can find a range of packs of nappies. They sell convenient travel size packs of nappies. You can also find things like milk, formula and small packaged snacks. 

In contrast, Malaysia has less convenience stores. Furthermore, small packs of nappies are very hard to find in Malaysia. If you need to buy nappies in Malaysia, the best solution is to go to a larger supermarket and generally you can only buy packs of 40 nappies or more. So if you are planning a short trip to Malaysia we recommend bringing your own nappies.

It is also worth being aware that basics like laundry and water are easier in Thailand (again better for budget travel). In Thailand you can find street side self service washing machines very commonly. Although these can be found in Malaysia, they are less common.

Furthermore, in Thailand there are also lots of small laundrettes around offering 24hour wash and dry services for around 40 baht per kilo (roughly £0.80 or $1). In Thailand there are also plenty of cheap, streetside water fillers to top up your water bottle. 

Top tip: Sun cream is very expensive in Malaysia. If you are on a long term trip in southeast Asia, make sure you buy sun cream in advance! 

5 Malaysia vs Thailand. Which country is cheaper?

Overall Thailand is a cheaper country than Malaysia for travel. We already mentioned that accommodation for families in Malaysia tends to be a little bit more expensive accommodation in Thailand for families. Overall, Malaysia is a more expensive country than Thailand. In both Malaysia and Thailand you can still find cheap street food around. 

Budget street food prices in Malaysia and Thailand are comparable with dishes starting at around RM5 or 50baht (roughly £1 or $1.30) in both countries. . 

However, Malaysia is generally more expensive for lots of other things. One frustration travelling in Malaysia is that many tourist attractions charge a lot more money for foreign visitors to enter (sometimes three or four times the price compared to local tickets). This dual pricing system can be a real frustration to travelers. If you do choose to travel Malaysia, try not to let this frustrate you and spoil your trip. 

In contrast, many activities are free in Thailand and if you do have to pay for activities in Thailand you generally pay the same price as locals (with some exceptions around the country). If you’re traveling with young kids in Thailand or Malaysia the good news is that many activities are free of charge for kids. The exact age that kids start paying for activity depends more on the activity than the country.

The cost of long distance journeys around Thailand and Malaysia is similar. The cheapest way to get around these countries is to take long distance buses. But be aware this is not the most comfortable way to travel with kids. Long distance travel overland in both Thailand and Malaysia is excellent value for money. 

6 Malaysia vs Thailand. Eating out with kids.

Which country is better to eat out with kids? Malaysia vs Thailand?

IN BRIEF: Thailand is better at catering to western backpackers and travellers (in most places you can find buddha bowls, Acai bowls, falafels, salads, wraps and sushi). Malaysia has had less foreign tourism and therefore has it’s own fusion of foods – reflecting the cultural diversity of the country (predominantly Malay, Chinese and Indian). You can still get international cuisine in Malaysia – just less common.

Both Malaysia and Thailand have an abundance of amazing quality street food. We have already mentioned that street food prices are comparable in Malaysia and Thailand. In Thailand many of the street food dishes are very spicy. Sometimes food arrives very spicy even if you ask for it without spice in Thailand. 

Malaysia also has its fair share of spicy food, although on average the food is probably less spicy than Thailand. In Thailand it is very rare to find restaurants with baby chairs. Even some of the more expensive international restaurants still do not have baby chairs. In contrast, almost every cafe, restaurant and even street side stalls have baby chairs. 

However, if you are eating out with kids in Malaysia it is rare for places to offer napkins or serviettes. If you’re eating out with kids in Malaysia we recommend bringing a pack of tissues or wet wipes. One advantage of Thailand for eating with kids is the number of convenience stores. In 7-Eleven you can often find a range of kid-friendly food including, biscuits, crackers, crisps and rice dishes like sushi. Many 7-Eleven stores in Thailand also sell sandwiches and even toasted cheese sandwiches!

Both Thailand and Malaysia have Western and international cuisine available. In both countries international cuisine is a lot more expensive than local food. You will find more international cuisine in tourist destinations and big cities. Brands like Mcdonalds, Burger King, KFC, Starbucks and more. Who doesn’t love their western comforts?

Oh and one more very important thing. If you are a coffee lover, it is worth being aware that coffee is much harder to find in Malaysia. So it is a bit more tricky to find that much needed caffeine hit. The best way to find coffee in Malaysia is to find a Chinese cafe or Hawker. Chinese Malaysians do love coffee but it is a little bit different to Western coffee. Malaysian coffee tends to be very strong and very dark. You can find some western-style coffee shops in towns and cities in Malaysia. Alcohol is also more difficult to find in Malaysia due to higher taxes and restrictions. So if you’re hoping to relax with a glass of beer or wine after the kids are in bed, Thailand may be your better bet.

Kid friendly dishes in Thailand

• Fried chicken (widely available around Thailand)
• Roti – Indian fried bread
• Bakeries (these can be slightly off but generally pretty tasty)
• Fresh fruit can be found in many places like markets and street side stalls

Kid friendly dishes in Malaysia

• Clay pot chicken rice
• Fried chicken (widely available around Malaysia)
• Chinese Chicken rice (roast chicken and rice) – not spicy at all 
• Roti Chenai – Indian fried bread
• Some places sell toast (Chinese coffee shops)
• Burgers are surprisingly common in Malaysia and vary in quality
• Apom (coconut pancakes made in curved pans)
• Waffles (normally made in malls and shopping centers and served with various spreads)
• Pau – Chinese steamed buns (often served with fillings like Kaya and custard)
• Naan breads and tandoori 
• Fresh fruit can be found in some places like markets (although not as common as Thailand)

7 Thailand vs Malaysia. Climate and weather 

Thailand and Malaysia are both tropical countries with a very hot humid climate. During the day time the temperature can often reach the high 30’s.

Both Thailand and Malaysia have a hot wet season and a hot dry season. It is possible to find cooler areas in both Thailand and Malaysia. In Thailand we recommend heading up to the north for a slightly cooler climate. In Malaysia we recommend heading to the Cameron Highlands for a slightly cooler climate.

The rainy and dry seasons in Malaysia and Thailand are increasingly difficult to predict with climate change. These seasons seem to be merged. 

8 Malaysia vs Thailand. Language and culture 

The culture in both Thailand and Malaysia is friendly and welcoming. You will be greeted with warm, kind smiles in both cultures. English is widely spoken in both Thailand and Malaysia. In both countries English may be less well spoken in rural areas. In Malaysia English is often used as a “common language” for people to communicate between different sub-cultures. 

Malaysia vs Thailand: Which is better to travel with kids? Summary

Thailand has a much longer history of a foreign tourism than Malaysia. As a result tourism is much more integrated in Thailand. This makes it easier to travel around Thailand. Thailand is also cheaper to travel, especially at the lower budget end of travel. 

If you have specific travel goals and places you want to visit, let this be the main thing that guides your choice of Malaysia vs Thailand. 

If you are open to either country, Thailand is a better country to travel with kids. This is especially true if you are traveling on a budget.

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Malaysia’s tourism recovery flops as Thailand, Indonesia cash in

Malaysia is struggling to bring back tourists compared with its Southeast Asian peers after scrapping pandemic curbs.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – For Arthur Wilkinson, a Penang-born entrepreneur who opened Malaysia’s first flotation therapy centre on his tropical island home, nearly two years without tourists marked the end of the road.

Float For Health, located in Tanjung Tokong, a coastal township on the northeastern side of Penang island, shut up shop for good in January 2021 as border restrictions introduced to keep out COVID-19 reduced customers to a trickle.

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“Eighty percent of my customers were tourists, and at that time, anyone working in this industry suffered for obvious reasons,” Wilkinson, who also runs the restaurant Heap Seng at 29 in George Town, told Al Jazeera.

Malaysia reopened its borders to tourists in April, before dropping all vaccination and PCR-test requirements in August.

But nearly a year since hailing the return of international visitors, Malaysia’s tourism sector is not only struggling but playing catchup to its Southeast Asian peers.

Malaysia welcomed about 3 million visitors in 2022, up from 134,728 visitors the previous year, according to Tourism Malaysia. The intake was just about 12 percent of the number that arrived in 2019.

Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia — which welcomed 10 million, 4.6 million and 4.58 million visitors, respectively — saw arrivals return to about one-quarter of pre-pandemic levels.

Vietnam’s 3.6 million foreign visitors, although short of the government’s target, was about one-fifth of its intake in 2019.

Tourist industry figures have offered a range of explanations for Malaysia’s weak rebound from the pandemic compared with its neighbours, from poor cost competitiveness to the country’s reputation as a buttoned-up, predominantly Islamic society. Tourism Malaysia declined to comment.

Earlier this month, the Malaysian Islamic Party-backed state government in Kedah, home to the popular duty-free resort island Langkawi, caused jitters in the tourism sector when it floated a possible ban on alcohol sales.

Kedah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md later clarified that the sale of alcohol in Langkawi is under the jurisdiction of the Finance Ministry, not the state government, and the state government had no authority to interfere with the tourist island’s duty-free status.

Malaysia already has some of the world’s highest alcohol taxes and imposes harsh punishments for drug offences, including the death penalty for trafficking.

Neighbouring Thailand, meanwhile, has built on its reputation for having a tolerant attitude towards vices, decriminalising cannabis in June 2022.

“From mid-December to mid-March, I used to have 80-90 percent of clients from Europe, and now I only have about 60 percent,” Anthony Wong, owner of Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa, one of the island’s oldest eco-resorts, told Al Jazeera.

“Flights to Malaysia from Europe are less [frequent] and more expensive, and Langkawi is not as cheap as its neighbours, especially the accommodation. … Europe is also going into recession, with inflation going up, and issues related to the ongoing war in Ukraine make it more challenging for them to spend money on travelling,” Wong said.

Wilkinson, who relocated his flotation therapy business to Indonesia’s Bali to take advantage of the higher tourist numbers and what he said was more dependable labour, said Malaysia could not afford to be complacent about its attractiveness to foreign visitors.

“We need to stimulate tourism somehow before it’s too late, as Malaysia is losing massively to Thailand and Indonesia,” he said.

“Even though Malaysia has a much wider variety of cuisines, our food and beverage scene and quality isn’t quite up to par compared to our neighbours, which also have lower alcohol tax and are more open to new ideas of tourism.”

Fabio Delisi, manager of Kuala Lumpur-based inbound tour operator Lotus Asia Tours, said he believes Malaysia’s potential has been held back by lacklustre promotion and relatively poor connectivity compared with other parts of the region.

“Malaysia does not lack attractions, especially natural ones. Tourism development suffers from inconsistent policies and promotional activities over the past decades,” Delisi, who has more than 30 years of experience in tourism across the region, told Al Jazeera. “Tourism is a very long-term public relation exercise.”

Delisi, whose company also operates in Indonesia and Singapore, said Malaysia’s fortunes have stood in stark contrast to those of Indonesia.

“We are wholesalers operating in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore since the early nineties, and in 2022 have experienced a decline of arrivals of up to 90 percent from our main Western markets into Malaysia, while we have seen double-digit growth in Indonesia for the same period,” he said.

In East Malaysia, which is separated from Peninsular Malaysia by the South China Sea, there are signs that tourism is rebounding much faster.

Operators there have benefitted from a niche market of high-spending Westerners seeking out tropical adventures in Malaysia’s eastern states on the island of Borneo, which is renowned for its wildlife and unspoiled nature.

“We hit the same revenue as 2019 last year despite it being an eight-month operation,” Jessica Yew, director of boutique tour company Sticky Rice Travel, which has its headquarters in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah state, told Al Jazeera.

“It’s mostly because of our market segment. [We cater to the] high-end/deluxe US market — the pandemic had little to no effect on their finances, and they were just waiting for the border to reopen. Europeans and British inquiries trickle in, but closing the sale for these is harder.”

For those with less to spend, travel and accommodation costs in Borneo, which are at their highest in years, could be off-putting.

“Most lodges and transport providers introduced a hike of up to 20 percent, while government agencies such as Sabah Parks doubled the price of some permits and entrances,” Yew said.

The higher prices include permits to climb Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak standing at 4,095 metres (13,435 feet), which this month doubled from 200 ringgit to 400 ringgit ($46 to $92).

When added to the costs of guides, food, and accommodation, the cheapest packages to tackle the summit come to about $550 per person.

While Sabah is generally cheap outside conservation areas, only some of the state’s protected parks are promoted by authorities as the main selling points for visitors.

“I tell people to go to Sumatra [in Indonesia] to see orangutans, as it costs one-third to one-fifth of Malaysian Borneo’s prices,” Yew said.

For many other operators, the return of Chinese and South Korean visitors, the biggest cohort of visitors to Sabah before the pandemic, will be crucial to their fortunes in the coming year.

Businesses, in particular, are keeping a close watch on China’s reopening of its borders last week after three years of international isolation.

Still, some within the sector are sceptical of any quick fix to the sector’s struggles.

“We are paying the price for more than twenty years of random policies without focus and continuity,” said Delisi of Lotus Asia Tours.

“Despite the effort of a number of good technocrats, without a framed, coordinated and consistent strategy, I don’t see how things may change or improve soon.”

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An increasing of tourists visiting Bangkok each year has proven that Bangkok is always a popular city for tourists.

For major tourist attractions in Bangkok, most of them are Historical sites or religious sites such as temples in Bangkok. There is beautiful architecture, wall painting and also important in History, such as Wat Phra Sri Rattanasamaram (Phra Kaew), Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangalaram (wat pho), wat arun Ratchawararam, Wat Sra Ket, and Phra Bor Banphot (Golden mountain), Wat Ratchanadda, Wat Traimit, Wat Benchamabophit, Wat Bowonniwet Vihara Suthasan, Wat Thep Wararam etc.

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Where to go

There are five regions of Thailand: North, Central, Northeast, East and South, which are divided into 75+1 provinces.

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EXPLORE FABULOUS Destinations, energetic cities, stunning beaches, and a huge range of fantastic experiences in Thailand

About Thailand

Welcome to the land of smiles.

The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia, making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern China. Its shape and geography divide into four natural regions : the mountains and forests of the North; the vast rice fields of the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands of the Northeast plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the peninsula South.

Getting to Thailand

• Passports & Visa

A Passport is an important official document that serves as an identity card when you visit a foreign country.

• Customs & Duty

Upon arrival in Thailand, foreign citizens must hold a valid Passport with at least six months validity, a valid Thai visa, and proof on onward travel.

• Vat, Tax Refund

- Who Can Claim A VAT Refund - Vat Refund For Tourists Conditions - Vat Refund Payment Methods - Why The VAT Refund Are Disapproved

• Mobile Phone & Internet

The following are the five simple steps you can take to get your Thai SIM card and mobile data plan ready.

Essential Application

When you are planning a trip to Thailand, don't forget to install 10 best apps for Thailand travel on your smartphone as these apps can be very useful during your stay in the "land of smiles".

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Travel to thailand.

Thailand travel is convenient for visitors as there are many ways to get to Thailand by bus, air, or rail, whether your destination is Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, or the most remote provinces

Flying is the most convenient mode of transportation for traveling to Thailand, as visitors can fly to Thailand on non-stop routes from many corners of the globe on both international and Thai airlines.

At present, the primary border crossing for visitors taking trains to Thailand is located near the Malaysian border town of Butterworth. Travelers from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur can travel by train ...

BUS & COACH

It is possible to travel by bus from most of Thailand’s neighbors. From Malaysia, one can cross north by bus to Thailand at various border checkpoints in Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces ...

PRIVATE CHARTERS

If you are looking for a private charter flight to Thailand there are numerous opportunities as most Thailand airports have services for private charter flights ...

behind the scenes

Press releases, travel features, festivals & events and other tourism authority of thailand, malaysia news, season highlights, stay tuned for our upcoming events, experience thainess, ---- amazing thailand ---.

Thailand is a festive kingdom, celebrating numerous provincial and national holidays and hosting many regional and global events. Search our comprehensive calendar of events and festivals by month; discover holidays that coincide with your trip and add them to your travel planner.

Thailand is a kingdom of wonder, filled with spectacular natural, cultural, and historical attractions.

thailand food

Thai cuisine has an international reputation as good as they get.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Thailand is a festive kingdom, celebrating numerous provincial and national holidays and hosting many regional and global events.

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E-NEWSLETTER

'Why is food cheaper in Thailand than here?'

S HAH ALAM - TikTok influencer Saify Akhtar has called for lower food prices and improved cultural preservation at tourist destinations to attract more visitors to Malaysia.

Saify highlighted the issue of expensive food, claiming that many tourists choose Thailand over Malaysia due to its affordability.

He compared the cost of seafood in Hatyai, Thailand, to that in Malaysia, stating that a meal easily exceeds RM100 in Malaysia despite the stronger Thai baht.

"How is food in Malaysia more expensive than Hatyai?

"If you eat seafood, the bill will definitely be more than RM100 for a family.

"In Hatyai it doesn't reach RM100 even though the (currency) bath is higher than the ringgit, but why (food prices) still expensive?

"Restaurants in tourist areas cannot make a profit (up to) two to three times. That's why Malaysians 'run' to Hatyai," he said.

Saify further slammed the lack of engagement and historical immersion at tourist attractions.

Citing the Sultan Abdul Samad Building in Kuala Lumpur as an example, he expressed disappointment that the building serves as an office and theater instead of a museum showcasing Malaysia's rich history.

He compared it to Petrosains, a museum that actively engages visitors, especially children, with its informative displays.

Saify also questioned the low ranking (314th) of the National Museum, attributing it to uninspiring exhibits.

He expressed frustration that despite Malaysia's rich history, museums fall short in presentation, ultimately failing to engage visitors.

"It should be a museum that tells about the history of this place, (to be) a place that my children should want to go to, like Petrosains.

"I don't know why the National Museum is ranked 314th best museum in the world, lagging behind Cambodia, the Philippines and Singapore.

"What's in the museum is just rocks and replicas. It's sadder that Malaysia has a lot of history but we are the ones who make this museum boring," he said.

Saify also criticised the inauthentic cultural experiences offered at tourist hotspots like Melaka.

He expressed his disappointment at seeing rickshaws decorated with cartoon characters and irrelevant features like disco music and "tom yam lights."

He stressed the importance of preserving authentic cultural experiences and providing clear explanations for tourists, which he believes are currently lacking.

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Thailand now ranked second in food tourism but still behind frontrunner Japan, according to international survey

Sunday, 14 Apr 2024

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Image from The Nation Thailand/ANN

BANGKOK (The Nation Thailand/ANN): Food is a source of pride for Thailand's tourism sector, jointly promoted by the government and the private sector.

Highlighting the strengths of Thai cuisine, renowned globally and a major attraction for tourists, it plays a vital role in attracting tourists.

However, Japan has surpassed Thailand in branding this aspect.

Nithee Seeprae, deputy director of marketing and communications, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed the Thailand Culinary Image Assessment and Michelin Guide Thailand 2023 project, surveying opinions of foreign tourists (online 1,800 samples, interviews 1,200 samples) and Thai tourists (online 800 samples, interviews 400 samples), conducted by KenetiXs Consulting Co Ltd.

The survey found that Japan is the top destination for food tourism, with a score of 56% in 2023, up from 54% in 2022.

Thailand ranks second at 44%, up from 38%, followed by China at 30%, up from 24%. South Korea is fourth at 28%, slightly down from 29%, and Hong Kong is fifth at 27%, up from 25%.

Going deeper into the perception and effectiveness of the Michelin Guide Thailand project in 2023, the survey found that among foreign tourists, awareness of the Michelin Guide for restaurants and accommodations remained at 76%, the same as the previous year. However, awareness of the Michelin Guide Thailand increased to 18% from 16% the year before.

This guide also influenced travel destination choices, with 62% making decisions based on it, the same as the previous year.

Regarding the aspects of satisfaction, behavioural impact, and attitude of foreign tourists who dine at Michelin-rated restaurants, here are the scores from various perspectives:

- Overall satisfaction remained high at 95% in 2023, the same as 2022.

- 85% shared their dining experiences online, up from 83% in 2022.

- 92% expressed willingness to revisit Michelin-rated restaurants, slightly down from 93% in 2022.

- 97% recommended these restaurants to others, slightly down from 98% in 2022.

- 95% tried dining at other Michelin-rated restaurants in Thailand, up from 94% in 2022.

- 97% recommended Thailand as a culinary tourism destination, the same as in 2022.

For an estimate of the number of foreign tourists who are aware of and have experienced the Michelin Guide Thailand project in 2023, the survey found that 40% were aware of the project, and it influenced 11% in their decision to visit Thailand, which translates to about 1.86 million people.

This estimation is based on the target number of tourists from 23 countries who travelled to Thailand from January to September 2022 and had dined at Michelin award-winning restaurants, accounting for 8%, or about 1.33 million people.

Although the awareness level of the Michelin Guide Thailand project in 2023 is close to the 39% in 2022, and its impact on the decision to visit Thailand remains the same at 11%, the estimated number is 940,000 people in 2022.

Regarding the question of having dined at Michelin award-winning restaurants, the rate remains at 8%, but the estimated number is about 690,000 people in 2022.

"The additional revenue from food expenditure by foreign tourists resulting from the implementation of the Michelin Guide Thailand project was approximately 262.99 million baht in 2023, an increase from 223.34 million baht in 2022,” Nithee said.

In the Thai tourists segment, a survey showed that awareness of the Michelin Guide decreased to 58% from 78% compared with the previous year. However, awareness of the Michelin Guide Thailand decreased to 46% from 61%. Nevertheless, the Michelin Guide Thailand significantly stimulated the desire for domestic travel, increasing to 96% from 89%.

"In terms of satisfaction among Thai tourists who dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, overall satisfaction score in 2023 increased slightly to 92% from 91% in 2022," Nithee said. - The Nation Thailand/ANN

Tags / Keywords: Thailand , Food Tourism , Big Favourite

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ASEAN tourists prefer Thailand over Indonesia: Study

The annual survey sought to measure the perceived soft power of several major countries like Japan, Australia and the United States, as well as the ten countries comprising ASEAN.

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outheast Asian tourists are significantly more likely to choose Thailand over Indonesia for their holidays, a new study has found, with travelers citing the lack of accessibility and freedom as reasons behind Indonesia’s lagging tourism appeal.

However, Indonesia remains a popular holiday destination for its own citizens, with half of the population preferring to vacation domestically, the same study found.

In the annual State of Southeast Asia study published last week by Singapore-based ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute think tank, nearly 2,000 respondents from the region were asked a series of questions aimed at probing their perspectives on various regional and global issues.

The survey included inquiries to measure the perceived soft power of several major countries like Japan, Australia and the United States, as well as the ten countries comprising ASEAN.

Soft power, or the perceived economic and cultural influence of a country on the global stage, was measured in the study through questions about preferred holiday destinations and relocation choices. Japan, it found, topped Southeast Asian travelers’ holiday preferences, with 30.4 percent of all respondents choosing Japan as their favorite destination.

Travel to a fellow ASEAN member state was the second-most popular choice with 16.2 percent, or 313 respondents, a significant portion of which named Thailand the best ASEAN nation for vacationing.

Topping the region at 30.6 percent, Thailand was followed by Indonesia (14 percent) and Malaysia (13.9). Among the worst-performing countries were Cambodia (3.9), Brunei (2.8) and Myanmar (0.4), it found.

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Thailand leads push for six-nation visa to lure moneyed tourists

BANGKOK – Thailand is steering an initiative for a joint visa programme with five other countries that together hosted about 70 million tourists in 2023, as Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin ramps up initiatives to attract more long-haul and high-spending travellers.

Mr Srettha – who has pledged to elevate Thailand’s status as a tourism hot spot into an aviation and logistics hub – has discussed the Schengen-type visa idea with his counterparts in Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar and Vietnam in recent months. The facility is meant to ensure seamless mobility for travellers among the six neighbouring countries.

The Schengen visa allows free travel around the border-free zone within Europe.

With most of the six countries’ leaders positively responding to the single-visa concept, tourism-reliant Thailand aims to generate more revenue per traveller and cushion its economy from headwinds such as sluggish exports and weak global demand that has hurt its manufacturing industry.

The six South-east Asian nations reported a combined 70 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2023, according to official data. Thailand and Malaysia accounted for more than half of the tally, generating about US$48 billion (S$65 billion) in tourism revenue.

The single-visa idea is the most ambitious among Mr Srettha’s line-up of tourism initiatives but targeted for the long term. The industry has served the country well, accounting for about 20 per cent of total jobs and making up about 12 per cent to the nation’s US$500 billion economy.

Barring the pandemic years, tourism has flourished and provided a cushion against a slump in manufacturing and exports, the traditional bulwarks of the economy.

The tourism industry is upbeat, with Ms Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, a former president of the Thai Hotels Association, saying “a common visa could entice long-haul travellers to make an easier decision”. The visa validity will need to be extended to 90 days from the usual 30-day period to make it attractive, she said. 

Mr Srettha’s administration has set a goal of attracting 80 million tourists by 2027. And since taking power about seven months ago, his government has signed a reciprocal visa waiver deal with China – Thailand’s largest market for tourists – and offered temporary visa waivers for travellers from India, Taiwan and Kazakhstan.

It is also mulling over a plan to open casinos inside large entertainment complexes and event-based tourism that will help the country generate more revenue.

If done right, the benefits of visa-free travel will not be confined to tourism alone, as ease of travel would be a boon for business travellers and trade, according to Mr Bill Barnett, managing director of hospitality and property consultancy C9 Hotelworks.

But a Schengen-type visa may be an uphill task given Asean’s poor track record in expediting multilateral policy framework and the group’s standing as a talk shop.

“Country by country seems to be the best way to do it,” Mr Barnett said. “Bilateral agreements, where governments are leading the way for this type of thing, make a lot of sense as they are looking outward and not inward.”

For a joint visa scheme, approvals have to be coordinated and the absence of standard immigration criteria among participating nations, unlike in the European Union, can pose challenges, according to Professor Thitinan Pongsudhirak from Chulalongkorn University’s political science faculty.

Asean as a grouping is a divided body with a poor immigration record, he said.

With Mr Srettha being neophyte in politics, he may lack the clout to push through the joint visa proposal, Prof Thitinan added.

“All the various things he’s been trying to do, I see it as picking low-hanging fruits and picking fruits off the ground,” Prof Thitinan said. “Sometimes, fruits on the ground are rotten.” BLOOMBERG

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