This is a very diverse destination with white sand beaches, a rich culture and beautiful landmarks. With Thailand attracting over 20 million tourists a year, this country is well suited to tourists who want an easy holiday where theres plenty to keep them occupied yet no hassle to sort out. If you want to be resident, then the cost of a longer-stay visa jumps up to $15k USD plus for the likes of the Thai Elite Visa. 7 years ago Save I wouldn't expect that cost of living in Malaysia is cheaper than Thailand. South Asia is my favourite part of the world. You can withdraw 150,000 ringgits after one year by showing suitable expenses, for example, kids education or purchase of a car. I am very fond of Thailand though and lived there for 10 months in 2004. Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $22Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $6Meal price: Around $3,50. Today though, most of these fires have been extinguished, but Yanar Dag is one of the few remaining natural gas fires. Summary: Both cuisines offer very rich and unique flavors. Taman Negara National Park: is a must-visit destination, which has an old rainforest full of various flora and animals, including tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. That said, the differing temperatures in Thailand is nice and overall, I would prefer it. Vegetarians and vegans can be catered for in both countries with fresh herbs and vegetables commonly used in dishes it is easy to find a non-meat alternative. The shopping malls in KL are excellent and some of KL's best shopping experiences and bargains are found in them. It's a l-o-n-g list of ways to spend your money in Thailand. You could and should also have a go at Muay Thai, Thailands national sport. Its a region almost all tourists ignore, but it feels like Thailand before tourism took over. Over the years the Thai Baht has gone from strength to strength. Shanghai, Bejing and the autonomous region of Macau, for example, are some of the pricier destinations in the country. Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $22Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $6Meal price: Around $3. Hi Lawrence, thank you for your comment! I created this blog to share my tips for independent and responsible travel adventures around the world. and there is dual price policy if you have to pay for your health care service this is a bit of turn off for me to accept. Thailand has recently increased the price. For instance, disrespecting the king is forbidden in Thailand, and narcotics possession and distribution are forbidden in Malaysia. Now I can finally get a rough estimate on how much a two-month-long trip in Southeast Asia would cost me. I'm Matt, a former globetrotting journalist who's previously worked for media like USA Today and the BBC. This post has truly been insightful and informative. Currently, the MM2H is on hold as it moved from the Ministry of Tourism to the Immigration Department, I believe they will be opening this again but no date yet. This is a popular question for many travelers. I would imagine this is the same as most of the big towns in the US too. This former Soviet Republic is the biggest country in Central Asia. Malaysia vs Thailand. Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $30Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,50Meal price: Around $4. Freedom Beach offers a more serene choice, whilst still providing convenient access to food vendors and beach chairs. Although Sri Lanka might be small, theres an incredible amount of things to do in this country. 13 Brands That Are Cheaper In Japan - Have Halal, Will Travel Monks wearing orange robes are a common sight, and its important to dress conservatively when visiting these sacred sites. Even though my wife is Malaysian Chinese I decided to apply for the MM2H as this gives 10-years of residency in Malaysia with no requirements to enter or leave. The roads in Malaysia are great too and are akin to what I would see back in the UK. I dont know much about International schools in Thailand only from three families I have met who now lives in Malaysia. When I moved to Malaysia with my family a year ago, we hadnt considered Thailand or any other options in Asia as Penang specifically (within Malaysia), ticked all our boxes for many of the reasons you outlined. If you make a reasonable living online and want to stay in Thailand, then the Elite Visa looks to be the best way to stay without the nervous visa runs. 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. Ive been living in and travelling through Asia for the last couple of years. Thailand and Malaysia are two stunning countries in Southeast Asia with diverse landscapes that offer unique experiences to travelers. Overall, whether you are looking for a tropical beach paradise or an adventure in the wilderness, Thailand and Malaysia have something unique and breathtaking to offer. Please keep in mind that this is my personal opinion and that I am writing this from the perspective of being married to a Malaysian Chinese woman, having two kids, that I work online, and I am in my forties (very much relevant as I will explain later). The Cost of travelling. Perhentian islands is another popular tourist attraction in Malaysia with beaches that can compare to Thailand. Krabis stunning natural beauty, jungle-covered interior and incredible cliffs and caves offer an array of activities for tourists who want more from their trip than just relaxing on the beach. Apart from this, Malaysia has a lot of other National Parks worth visiting. . Although not all Asian countries are cheap (think about Bhutan, Japan or Singapore), Asia has got plenty of budget-friendly destinations too. Youre in the right place, Founders of this blog, Tom and Anna have traveled to both Thailand and Malaysia and lived in Thailand so they have plenty of advice and insider tips. ), this multi-colored treat will cool you down on a hot summer day. As long as weve been here (9 months) we have never turned on the air conditioning at home during the day. Going up the stairs can be a workout but the views are 100% worth it! Malaysia however can offer an equally amazing experience. 4 5 6 Next Page 1 of 7 ricku Newbie Advanced Member 411 578 posts Posted March 14, 2016 I'm thinking about spending the second part of my current Thailand trip away from Thailand, and go to Cambodia. I am trying to get as much honest fair information as possible to consider. The content on our website is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or financial advice and does not replace a relationship with a qualified healthcare and finance professional. However, this is not recommended for all treks, so its advisable to do some research in advance. Malaysia Travel Comparison of Landscapes: Thailand vs Malaysia Comparison of Food: Thailand vs Malaysia Comparing the Culture Comparison of Nightlife: Thailand vs Malaysia Comparison of Transportation and Accessibility Comparison of Affordability: Thailand vs Malaysia Conclusion on Thailand vs Malaysia FAQ on Thailand vs Malaysia Part of the reason for me stacking on 6-7 kilos during the first year in Malaysia is due to the tasty food here. Check out this Ultimate List of the Best Hotels & Hostels in Thailand for more ideas of where to stay. One of the things India is best known for is its incredibly rich culture. Thai food is known the world over and is regularly listed among the best in the world. The cuisine is known for its potent, spicy flavors that blend sweet, sour, and spice. While it is possible to visit Mongolia independently, its not the easiest country to travel through if you dont want to hire a guide or take tours. But theres much more to this country! Check out some of our comparison guides. Below we look at what sort of excursions are available in both countries, before comparing the culture and food in each. As for LV in KL, Thailand and Singapore, i would have to Thailand is the most expensive place to buy designer bags. Its perfect for a long day exploring Thailands sights. From the futuristic capital, Nur-Sultan to the abandoned seaport of Aralsk, this country is full of unique sights. Malacca: A historic city on the west coast of Malaysia, is another must-visit destination. 10 days, two weeks, or even one month of travel to Malaysia or Thailand can really add to your travel budget. If thats the case, then you go apply for Malaysia as a Second Home visa as you should be more easily qualify. Ton Sai Beach: Thailand offers an endless selection of stunning beaches, Ton Sai Beach offers a gorgeous and relaxing setting away from the crowds. Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan share similar traditions, but its good to know that the latter is slightly cheaper. That being said, both countries still offer affordable travel experiences and are well worth visiting regardless of budget constraints. There are surely going to be some, as there are in most countries and cities around the world. Summary: While both places certainly have a vibrant and fun nightlife scene, I think it is safe to say that Thailand offers more for those who want to party. KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA. Although hotels have started to spring up in this region, it remains largely unspoiled thats a rarity in Thailand where many of the best beaches are highly developed. Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $4Meal price: Around $2. Malaysia is closer to the equator and so is overall hotter than Thailand. I just kept thinking of more aspects that I wanted to compare to give as much of a comparison between Malaysia and Thailand as I could. Its one of these beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destinations where the tourism industry is still in its early stages. Still, India is one of the cheapest Asian countries on this list. The cuisines of Malaysia and Thailand are well known for their rich and varied flavours, which are crafted from fresh ingredients and cultural influences. Muay Thai (or Thai Boxing) can be traced back to 18th century Thailand, and has its roots deeply ingrained in Thai culture. Thailand vs Malaysia: If You Can Only Choose One Galangal, lemongrass, and chili are common ingredients in Thai food. One of the most popular foods in Malaysia is Rendang. Mongolia, landlocked between Russia and China, is a mountainous country with unspoilt nature and unique culture. Many family and friends were surprised at this, who automatically assumed we were living here for a fraction of the cost in the UK. Address: 130, 108, Jalan Cerdas, Taman Connaught, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Iran is a country that only started attracting more tourists in the last couple of years and it was gaining popularity among travellers quickly. The Perhentian islands is another tourist attraction worth visiting while in Malaysia. As for Spore, its about RM200 or so cheaper than KL. Thailand vs Malaysia: A Comparison Guide (2023) - Adventure In You Open on weekends, Chatuchak market has a huge selection of food markets serving street foods and Thai classics. The KLIA Ekspres is an inexpensive and convenient train option for heading to Kuala Lumpurs city center. 4.2 How much does a meal cost in Malaysia? Both Coconut milk and palm sugar are used to balance the sweet and savory flavors. And the best part is that Indonesia is one of the most affordable countries in Asia. While Malaysia boasts gorgeous islands, stunning national parks, and a diverse mix of cultures that make it a unique and fascinating visit. Postage rates in Malaysia are cheap. The white sand beaches in this country are better than Malaysian ones, and the countless Thai islands are also spectacular. With its numerous archaeological sites, large forests, beautiful beaches and friendly locals, its a destination that will surely surprise you. Vietnam, while not a neighbour, is also cheaper. For getting around towns and cities, public transport is an easy option. 1.Suria KLCC. http://resources.mikesblog.com/lifestyle/chiangmaischoolresearch.pdf. I spent a month backpacking in Bangladesh and it was an unforgettable experience! Lastly, Health Care Service in Malaysia is cheaper and better in my opinion. Ultimately, its very difficult the beat the party vibe that exists in Thailand. If youre looking for the best beaches, lively nightlife, cheap drinks and an all-round fun vibe, Thailand will be a better holiday destination than Malaysia. Although Malaysia has jungles, beaches, shopping malls, and heritage streets and buildings, Thailand has many more places that are worth visiting. Taxis are more expensive (still very affordable though!) Where do you prefer to be based in Malaysia or Thailand? Staying in Borneo, a visit to Gunung Mulu National Park will expose you to some of the worlds most fascinating but also rare animals. But totally agree on the immigration side in Thailand such a hassle. You can expect to be greeted with a warm smile wherever you go because Thai people are recognised for their hospitality. Its hard to beat eating the amazing tastes of Thai market food that costs less than $1! Living in either Malaysia or Thailand is certainly cheaper than where I lived in the UK (London). Gyms up and down the country offer training sessions (from a single day, to several months!) Another great country for lovers of nature and the great outdoors is Kyrgyzstan. Stop by the Tanjung Bungah Market for souvenirs and authentic Malaysian foods. Cambodia seems interesting.. Weed is pretty much semi-legal, the girls seems friendlier than thai girls, e.t.c. Whilst if you want to see Thai wildlife head to Isaan. It is a popular destination in Malaysia if you want a seaside getaway. When I live in Chiang Mai in 2004 the exchange was 65 Baht to the pound, on recent trips I was getting 38 Baht to the pound. One thing I would say is the application takes a long time. These differences become even more noticable if you plan to spend a longer time in the country. These can be significantly cheaper than hotels and can also provide a more authentic local experience. Required fields are marked *. While Thai is the official language of Thailand, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and cities. Anyone who knows me, or spent enough time in a few of my posts, will know I am certainly no prude, but as a family man I wouldnt want my kids to see whats on display in some places in Thailand. If youre comfortable with riding a motorbike, motorbike taxis are a convenient and economical choice, particularly in busy cities like Bangkok. Learn more. Hey, Laura! Get comfy, grab your fave snack, and lets compare these two countries in Southeast Asia. Pewter Ware - Another must buy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is local pewter ware. Cambodia is cheaper than its neighbours Vietnam and Thailand, making it one of the cheapest exotic destinations in Southeast Asia. Apart from that, you will also find lush green forests, picture-perfect beaches, beautiful volcanoes and much more here. Cities like Bangkok and Northern Thailand are full of must-visit temples with incredible Buddhas and palaces. Whether youre a wildlife enthusiast, adventure seeker, history buff or beach lover, Sri Lanka has got something for you. If you want to live more modestly you certainly can but your lifestyle will be less expat and more local. Many Malaysians are bilingual, with English being the second most spoken language after Malaya. This country is a bit more expensive than other Southeast Asian destinations but still very affordable compared to Western countries. If youre looking for some of the cheapest Asian countries to visit on your next trip, you have come to the right place! but 1 thing I want to avoid is Thai Visa complication, run, apply etc To me Malaysia Retirement Visa seems to be the answer as the fund deposit is not an issue for me. Overall, transportation options in Thailand and Malaysia are accessible and affordable with both countries having a well-established transport infrastructure. The Best Things to Buy in Thailand - The Koh Samui Guide With its high mountains, undiscovered canyons and beautiful glaciers, this destination has got a lot to offer. This doesn't mean living in Malaysia is dirt cheap though. However alcohol is also much more expensive in Malaysia, so if you love your evening drinks, then Thailand could be a better option. Bangladeshi are some of the most hospitable people in the entire world (along with Pakistanis, #13 on this list) and believe me, travelling here will be memorable! Nowhere is perfect, and even though both places are spectacular, more wallet friendlier than most western countries, there are downsides that over time can be frustrating to be honest just like living anywhere. I have never been to Malaysia but when this situation is settled I am going to visit Malaysia. If youre bootstrapping and at the early stages of the digital nomad journey, or are single and looking for wild parties, then clearly Thailand may be a better choice. Last updated on January 26, 2023 by Wandering our World. If youre interested in Persian culture and history, for example, this destination will surely astonish you. With 48 countries, Asia is the largest continent in the world, and its also my favourite one. However, due to the current political situation, tourism in Iran has been declining again. Should I go to China or Malaysia? Which is Cheaper? Which is Better? A 4.1 Is Malaysia cheaper than Thailand? We just hope you like your food hot Thai cuisine is some of the spiciest in the region! This is an authentic country with colourful temples, French colonial architecture and breathtaking landscapes. Langkawi and Tioman Islands are famous for their beautiful beaches and stunning coral reefs, while Taman Negara National Park is a must-see destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Malaysias ancient rainforest. Summary: Personally speaking, I think Thailand has a few more cultural attractions that you can visit when you travel around. Both are culture-packed countries where youre guaranteed to experience the incredible east. I now run the Wandering our World team - this article was either written by one of our freelance staff writers and then edited by me, or written by myself. To get the same lifestyle we have in Malaysia back in the UK it would cost us 4-5 times what we spend. In general, expect a livelier and busier beach experience than what you would get in Malaysia. Its good to know, however, that some islands are cheaper than others. 2. Overall, the cuisine of Thailand and Malaysia is diverse and flavorful, with unique ingredients and flavors that set them apart. First off, I should say that I am a huge fan of both countries and have travelled and lived in both for some time. Verdict: Malaysia vs Thailand Final Word Malaysia vs Thailand Overview Before I start comparing Malaysia and Thailand let's have a quick look at the demographic data on both countries. It really helps me understand the main basic differences. Coming from someone who has been traveling the world for the last 8 years AND has been in the hospital 2x, travel insurance is something everyone NEEDS to get. This spicy meat dish (usually beef or chicken) is made by slow-cooking the meat along with coconut milk, chilli and spices. There are 38 airports in Thailand and internal flights are pretty cheap. In Malaysia, there seems to be none of these issues with the police and the issues of bribes have never come up. Its good to know that this country is more expensive than countries like Cambodia and Vietnam. Which Thai shopping center is Cheaper? Situated just outside the capital of Kuala Lumpur, this huge network of limestone caves have been turned into Hindu temples and are now an important pilgrimage site. Look forward to seeing you in Penang one day. Oh and if you cant really decide then you can always get an MM2H and spend 3-4 months in Thailand each year the best of both worlds! Malaysia is one of the most developed countries in Southeast Asia. Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,50Meal price: Around $3. Needless to say, in Malaysia, you dont see any obvious go-go bars or dodgy massage parlors. HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM. With its vibrant culture, lush green jungles and stunning Himalayan Mountains, this country has got a lot to offer. There is no need to go into details on this post about this, if you havent experienced this yourself then you can easily find this information online. Below we look at some of the highlights in each country when it comes to culture and vibe, so you can see what you think youll like most: Thailand is a country known for its food, culture, stunning scenery, and more recently a great party scene. Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $16Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2Meal price: Around $2,50. Although Taiwan is one of the more expensive countries on this list, its just slightly more expensive than China and still pretty cheap compared to Western standards. So simple. Places like Koh Samui, Koh Lipe, and Koh Phangan are just a few of the famous beaches that Thailand is known for. Although with that being said, transport in Malaysia, at least in the capital city, is a lot more modern. Thailand is home to many bootstrapping digital nomads and is a popular choice as it bridges the gap between backpacking and working online. A large minority of Malaysians are Hindu, and a trip to Batu Caves combines Malaysias rugged beauty with its religious side. Sri Lanka is less expensive than India, so its a very budget-friendly destination where you wont need to worry about spending too much money. This means I might get a small commission if you click on a link and buy a product. The highlights of Uzbekistan are the medieval cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Kiva, where you can immerse yourself in the countrys history and traditions. Malaysia or Thailand: Which is Cheaper & Better for a Family Travel? Makro - aimed at small Thai businesses or consumers who buy in bulk, so it is generally cheapest to buy something here In terms of accessibility and costs, both Thailand and Malaysia offer affordable transportation options. The price of a plane ticket may help you decide which country you should visit. There is no big difference between seasons too, which means the weather is fairly consistent year-round. It ranges from around $30 to $100 USD based on distance. Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is a favorite for this. On top of that, Malaysia is one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit (unless for alcohol, which is pretty expensive) and quite contrary to what many people think, Malaysia is cheaper than Thailand! One of our favorites is Sunrise Beach on Ko Lipe. Not only that, but its a school with a great atmosphere with a great mix of expat teachers and pupils. On top of that, Iran is filled with natural wonders, from mountains and deserts to caves and waterfalls. Is Malaysia Expensive? - Leave Your Daily Hell 59 101 101 comments Best Add a Comment ZeinTheLight 1 mo. Local public transport usually costs less than $1 USD, while long-haul journeys via bus or train can range from $5 to 20 USD based on distance. Often nicknamed The Teardrop of India, the country island of Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean. You will find the cheapest East Asian countries below. Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3Meal price: Around $3. All so you can see which country will suit you best! By showing respect for the culture and customs of each country, visitors can have a more meaningful and enjoyable experience in these beautiful destinations. Both Thailand and Malaysia can be super maniac when it comes to driving and is pretty much on a par with each other as in BOTH CAN BE SUPER CRAZY. However if you want a quieter vacation which divides time between the beach and other activities such as wildlife watching in Borneo, then Malaysia should be your choice. With a range of options available to suit every budget, visitors to Thailand and Malaysia can have an amazing travel experience without breaking the bank. Why I prefer Malaysia to Thailand (mostly) for Residency - LifeHacker Guy This money is deposited into a Fixed Deposit account and you get between 3-4% interest rate in Malaysian ringgit. Table of Contents Southeast Asia is one of those regions that everyone wants to travel to at least once in a lifetime, and why not? If youre looking for a more relaxed vibe, check out one of Kuala Lumpurs speakeasy bars, such as PS150 or The Vault, for an elegant experience with delicious cocktails. When I applied two years ago the requirement was to have 500,000 ringgits ($120k USD) in liquid assets (basic cash in the bank or shares) and to be earning the equivalent of 10,000 ringgits per month ($2,500 USD). Thai Food While Malaysia has a mixture of cuisines, Thailand has one all its own. Their feedback was that International schools in Thailand are way more expensive than Malaysia and the quality of education on par, if not better here. Its important to highlight that the cost of living in both Malaysia or Thailand really does depend on where you live in these countries and your lifestyle. It involves no extra cost to yourself. If so, please in a polite and courteous manner let me know in the comments below. In addition the mail service is reliable and trustworthy. And theres more swimming in waterfalls, climbing volcanoes, admiring the colonial architecture and visiting rice terraces are just a few of the other highlights of The Philippines. Make sure to wear a helmet as Thailands traffic accident rate is high. Whether youre seeking the bold and spicy flavors of Thai food or the aromatic and flavorful dishes of Malaysia, both countries offer something for every taste bud. Another popular destination is George Town, the capital of the Malaysian state of Penang. Another tip is to look for budget accommodations such as hostels, guesthouses, or homestays. Again, if you have a relatively successful business you should easily meet the financial requirements. Both countries have beautiful landscapes, mountains, jungles and waterfalls to explore. On Amazon.co.uk, you can buy the Canon EOS 350 D for 400 (direct from Amazon). Southeast Asia Let's start with Southeast Asia, a popular backpacking destination full of amazing things to see and do. But Malaysia with its 800+ islands also has a stunning coastline, and unlike the popular spots in Thailand, beaches in Malaysia dont tend to get as busy, making them the perfect place to unwind. Bulgaria. What expenses in Thailand have you found to be higher than expected? There are 6 international airports you can choose to fly into for Malaysia. There are slight differences that can see around Chinese New Year (February most years) getting hotter with later in the year getting more rain.