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7 Great Getaways For Malaysia's Upcoming Long Weekends (Less Than RM800!)

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Atiqah Mokhtar •  Jul 09, 2019

If you're a Malaysian, chances are you've been eagerly anticipating all the long weekends coming up.  In addition to the breaks coming up for Raya Haji, National Day, Awal Muharram, the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong's birthday as well as Malaysia Day, we also recently got the good news that July 30 will be a national holiday in honour of the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong's coronation.

Credit: Giphy

Given the abundance of long weekends coming up, it would be such a shame not to seize the opportunity to go for a getaway to get some much-needed R&R. So to help you, out, we've rounded up recommendations for where you can go, and included a budget too!

But first, just to recap, here's a quick summary of the upcoming weekends for your reference:

  • Yang Di-Pertuan Agong's Coronation: 30 Jul 2019 (falls on a Tuesday. Take leave on 29 July 2019 for a 4-day long weekend!)
  • Hari Raya Haji: 12 Aug 2019 (Hari Raya Haji falls on Sunday (11 Aug), hence the holiday is observed on Monday (12 Aug)
  • National Day + Awal Muharram: 31 Aug - 2 Sep 2019 (National Day falls on a Saturday, however, Awal Muharram fall on Sunday (1 Sep), hence the holiday is observed on Monday (2 Sep))
  • Malaysia Day: 16 Sep 2019 (falls on a Monday)

Note: For our budget breakdown, please note this that it assumes costs for a 3D2N trip for 1 person and includes main transport (such as airfare), accommodation, and attractions, but excludes ground transport (e.g. taxis or rideshare), food, and shopping expenses. Prices quoted are based on online checks as of 9 July 2019 and may be subject to changes or exchange rate fluctuations depending on your booking period. The article is not meant to be an exhaustive budget but rather provides an estimate of main costs.

1. Penang

WHAT TO DO

Eat delicious local food!

One of Penang's main attractions is, of course, its food. Home to many iconic eateries such as Nasi Kandar Beratur, Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul, and Resotran Kapitan all offer delicious food to tuck into at affordable prices. But that's not all - be sure to check out other foodie gems, including must-visit cafes and places where you can get authentic and halal Chinese food.

Go up Penang Hill

Credit: Roongkiat Arsthong on Facebook

See some gorgeous views of Penang from atop Penang Hill (also known as Bukit Bendera), which was the first colonial hill station established in Peninsular Malaysia. Ride the funicular train which goes up to the station.

Website | Facebook | Price

Price: RM12 per adult (for MyKad holders), RM6 per child

Address: Jalan Stesen Bukit Bendera, Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia 11500

Explore Penang's heritage areas

Penang is chock full of heritage and cultural sights that don't cost a penny to explore. Just bring your camera, some comfortable shoes, and your curiosity! Walk around famous spots to explore like Lebuh Armenian, Love Lane, Lebuh Muntri, as well as the Clan Jetties to get a feel of the city and its historical past. Don't forget to spot Penang's now famous murals that dot the entire area.

Read more about Penang's heritage areas here!

Drop buy Chowrasta market to stock-up on Penang food items

Credit: @koh_amiing on Instagram

You can't leave Penang without stocking up on some food goodies that Penang is famous for, like its jeruk (pickled fruits) or Penang White Coffee. Chowrasta market is THE place to shop for these items, along with plenty of other offerings, like fruits, snacks, spices and more. The market is located within walking distance from Komtar and is within walking distance from famous food spots like Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendol and Line Clear Nasi Kandar, so you'll be bound to pass by.

Entrance fee: Free

Opening hours: 6.30am - 6pm

Address: Lot 26, Jalan Chowrasta, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Check out the flea market at Hin Bus Depot

Credit: @seramithastudio_thanes on Instagram

Penang has a hipster scene that has cropped up over the years, with cafes like China House coming onto the scene, along with the famous street murals that have made the place an Instagram-worthy must-visit. Fitting those lines would also be Hin Bus Depot, which was converted from the bus depot it's named after into an art and community space, which hosts a pop-up market every Sunday, as well as workshops, exhibitions and other events. The depot is filled with artsy installations and open space which also makes it a great spot to take photos.

P.S. Check out these other picture-perfect places (near halal eateries) for your Penang getaway!

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Admission fee: Free

Opening hours: Weekdays (12pm - 8pm); Weekends (11am - 8pm)

Address: 31A, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang

ACCOMMODATION

Credit: Spices Hotel

For accommodation, Penang has many boutique hotels that are offer affordable places to stay that are also beautiful and centrally located, one of them being Spices Hotel. This hotel was converted from former shop lots located in the heart of the UNESCO Heritage Site in Georgetown. The style and design of the hotel that echoes its cultural heritage will be sure to charm, plus its close location to many of the famous local eateries that you'll inevitably be stopping by during your trip.

If you're looking for more beautiful accommodations in Penang, check this list out!

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Price per night: From RM168 on Agoda

Address: No.5, Lorong Lumut, George Town, Malaysia 10300

Contact no.: +60 4-261 9986

Cost breakdown

  • Transportation = Assume driving and fuel expenses of RM150
  • Accommodation: RM390 (including taxes) for 3D2N
  • Penang Hill funicular: RM12 (assume MyKad-holder rates)
  • Other activities listed: Free for admission

Estimated total cost: RM555 (rounded upwards).

2. Hua Hin, Thailand

Hua Hin is the unique coastal town in Thailand that’s only a couple hours drive away from Bangkok (with direct 2-hour flights from KL to Hua Hin too!). This seaside town has long been a fashionable getaway for Thai aristocracy, and its development over the years makes it fascinating to visit. From European-inspired attractions (such as Santorini Park Cha-Am, Venezia Hua Hin), to beautiful natural spots (like the Phraya Nakhon Cave) and of course, the local night markets, it’s an interesting mix of old and new to behold. Also, visiting Hua Hin in January means you’ll be avoiding the hot and humid summer months from March to May!

WHAT TO DO IN HUA HIN

We have a Muslim-Friendly guide to Hua Hin that covers all the amazing things you can see there, but here are some of our top picks.

Hua Hin Railway Station

Credit: @putrierika on Instagram

No visit to Hua Hin is complete without visiting its iconic railway station. The station has been beautifully preserved, with wooden buildings and vintage signage in yellow and red hues, and is still functional as a train station! It’s a lovely nod to the heritage of Hua Hin, while also being a really good spot to take photos ?

Price: Free

Address: Hua Hin, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand

Santorini Park Cha-Am

Credit: @dhiyashamimi on Instagram

Santorini Park is an amusement park and mall located in Cha-Am, about a half hours’ drive from Hua Hin. And yes, the theme park is anchored on the Greek island and is filled with buildings, shops and restaurants fashioned in the beautiful style of Santorini that has become so famous.

#HHWT Tip: While there are rides available at the park, your ticket only covers entry as well as one complimentary ride. For additional rides, you’ll have to pay extra ☹️ But at least you can take as many pictures as you want!

Website Facebook

Getting there: You can get a Grab

Entrance fees: THB150 per person (RM20)(for non-residents of Thailand. Thai residents pay THB50)

Opening hours: Mon – Fri (9.30 am – 6.30 pm); Sat & Sun (9 am – 6.30 pm)

Address: Petchakasem Road, Amphoe Cha-Am, Phetchaburi, Thailand 76120 Amphoe Cha-Am, Phetchaburi

Cicada Market

Credit: @spensfish on Instagram

Cicada Market is an open-air market with a focus on local arts and crafts. In addition to the regular offerings of night markets like food and trinkets, you’ll be able to find artwork, locally made clothes and bags, artisanal ware such as hand-blown glass, and more!

Price: Free entry

Opening hours: Fri & Sat (4pm – 11pm); Sun (4pm – 10pm)

Address: 83/159 Nong Kae-Khao Takiap Rd | Nhongkae, Hua Hin 77110, Thailand

Plearnwan Village

Credit: @ching0617_ on Instagram

Plearnwan Village is a cluster of shops fashioned in the retro style which is meant to evoke an old-school Hua Hin feel. Here you’ll find an array of shops selling handicrafts, eateries, a mini funfair, and of course, more photo-taking opportunities ? Regardless, it’s a quaint place to pop in and explore this nod to 1950s Hua Hin.

Entrance fee: No fees (though please note if you’re driving there parking costs around THB 40)

Opening hours: Mon – Thu (9 am – 9 pm); Fri – Sun (9 am – 10 pm)

Address: 4/90-95 Phet Kasem Rd, Tambon Hua Hin, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand

Hua Hin & Chatsila Night Markets

Credit: @yuhowcome on Instagram

No visit to Thailand is complete without a trip to the night markets, and the main ones in Hua Hin are the Hua Hin Market and the Chatsila Night Market, which are located adjacent to each other. From regular night market fare to food, clothes, knick-knacks and more, it's a great place to explore at night.

Price: Free

Opening hours: Open daily from 6 pm – 11 pm

Address: ซ หัวหิน 72, Tambon Hua Hin, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand

Venezia Hua Hin

Credit: @firzasikumbang on Instagram

Styled after Venice, this attraction in Hua Hin has canals and features a few activities such as the gondola ride, a mini zoo, a 3D museum, as well as shops and restaurants (P.S. there is also a halal restaurant Mura Mura on the premises). Prices will differ depending on which package you opt for which includes different attractions.

Entrance fee: From THB180 onwards (RM25), depending on which package you opt for

Opening hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily

Address: 1899 Petch Kasem Rd. (Sai Tai), Cha Am, Petchburi 76120

ACCOMMODATION

Credit: Evergreen Hotel Hua Hin on Facebook

For accommodation, you can consider Evergreen Boutique Hotel. This hotel is located in a quiet corner that's still close to town. It is also close to halal restaurant Mooz Hua Hin which serves Thai food, so you can get your fix of tom yum and other Thai dishes there!

P.S. Please note that Mooz Hua Hin is actually housed within a Muslim-friendly hotel of the same name. When we checked room availabilities, the hotel seemed to be fully booked for the upcoming long weekend periods, but you can keep them in mind for future visits!

Price: from RM162/night on Agoda

Address: Soi 47 Petchkasem Road Hua Hin, Prachuabkirikhan, 77110 Thailand

Website | Facebook

Estimated cost breakdown (excluding transportation and food)

  • Flight = RM260 (based on AirAsia prices)
  • Accommodation = RM380 (incl. taxes, for 2 nights)
  • Santorini Park Cha-Am = RM20
  • Venezia Hua Hin = RM25
  • Other attractions listed: free entry
  • ESTIMATED TOTAL = RM685 (rounded up)

3. Hanoi, Vietnam

WHAT TO DO IN HANOI

Enjoy a Water Puppet Show  

Credit: Michael Coghlan on Flicker

One of the most popular attractions in Hanoi, a modern theatre puppet show performed in a pool of water as a stage at Thang Long Theatre. You’ll get to enjoy 17 short sketches of folk tales and legends such as Vietnamese ancient life, agricultural harvests and mythical dances. The performance is also accompanied by a magnificent Vietnamese orchestra.

#HHWT tip: Book your tickets early since the show tends to sell out fast.

Price: Starts at VND60 000 or RM12 (there is an additional fee to photograph or film the show)

Address: 57B Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Showtimes: Daily 3pm, 4.10pm, 5.20pm, 6.30pm & 8pm

Website

Explore the vibrant Night Market

Credit: @food_travel_life_karen on Instagram

The Hanoi weekend night market is popular among locals and tourist for its busy and lively atmosphere. Browse through market items such as handicrafts, clothes, accessories, shoes and souvenirs. With a starting price of VND10 000 (RM3), it is definitely a bargain. Enjoy performances by locals in traditional outfits accompanied by traditional music too!

Price: Free (items start from RM3 onwards)

Address: Hàng Đào, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Operating hours: Friday to Sunday 6pm – 12am

Visit the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh

Credit: @nining_wahyoe on Instagram

An important historical site for Vietnam! This impressive structure surrounded a scenic garden is the final resting place of Vietnam’s most iconic leader, Ho Chi Minh. His body is embalmed and preserved for display at the mausoleum. Ba Dinh Square, in front of the mausoleum, was where President Ho declared the independence of Vietnam in 1945.

If you’re lucky you’ll also get to see the changing of guards that rivals that of Buckingham Palace!

#HHWT tip: Visitors’ attires need to cover shoulders and knees to enter the building and photography is not allowed inside.

Price: Free

Address: 2 Hùng Vương, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Operating hours: 

Tuesday to Friday 8am – 5pm

Saturday 8am – 5.15pm

Monday 8am – 11am

Website

Take a free walking tour

Credit: @jessie.leung on Instagram

The most important aspect of a budget trip is to take advantage of all the free touristy offers – like this free walking tour! The free walking tour is run by a group of the local university students who provide half day and full day tours. The tours range from the Military Museum, French Quarters, Government Guesthouse, Opera House, street markets and more!

Price: Free

Website

Drop by the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Credit: @goatrave on Instagram

One of Vietnam’s UNESCO sites, the Imperial Citadel served as the capital of Vietnam for eight centuries. Explore grand pavilions, imperial gates, and even American military bunkers!

Interesting fact – the Imperial Citadel is still an ongoing archaeological site since there have been many relics found over the last few years!

Price: VND30 000 or RM5 – RM6

Address: 19C Hoàng Diệu, Quán Thánh, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Operating hours: Daily 8am – 5pm (closed on Mondays)

Hanoi Opera House

Credit: Prashant Ram on Flickr

A beautiful historical Vietnamese landmark that was modelled after Palais Garnier (one of Paris’ opera houses) with its European Renaissance design.

The theatre hosts many events frequently, ranging from the Vietnamese Orchestra who perform there regularly, to the occasional international artist.

Price: Starts at VND100 000 or RM17 – RM18 (prices may differ depending on the show and seating type)

Address: Số 01 Tràng Tiền, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Website

FOOD IN HANOI

Zaynab Restaurant

Credit: @noruia on Instagram

There are many Muslim-friendly restaurants in Hanoi such as this Vietnamese food joint, Zaynab Restaurant.

Check out this list of Muslim-friendly restaurants in Hanoi for more food!

Halal status: Halal-certified

Address: 12 Hàng Lược, Hàng Mã, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Opening hours: 11am – 8pm daily

Contact No: +84 93 453 07 82

Facebook

Accommodation

Cosiana Hotel

Credit: @cholilnafis on Instagram

With a halal-certified menu, staying at Cosiana definitely makes your trip convenient. Not just that, the hotel is walking distance to a number of attractions too like the Maison Center, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Museum of History and Tran Quoc Pagoda.

Muslim-Friendly amenities: Halal-certified menu

Price: from RM107/night on Agoda

Address: 92 Đường Lê Duẩn, Văn Miếu, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Website

Estimated cost breakdown (excluding transportation and food)

  • Flight = RM415 (based on Malindo prices)
  • Accommodation = RM250 (incl. taxes, for 2 nights)
  • Water Puppet Show = RM12
  • Imperial Citadel of Thang Long = RM5
  • Hanoi Opera House = RM17
  • Other attractions listed = free entry
  • ESTIMATED TOTAL = RM700 (rounded up)

4. Kota Kinabalu

WHAT TO DO IN KOTA KINABALU

Visit the Filipino night market at Kota Kinabalu

Credit: @i.politis on Instagram

The place for bargain hunters! There is plenty of Muslim-friendly street food to try, and a wet market with fruits and vegetables, and a separate wet market to explore. Definitely a foodie haven, and a photographers place to be.

Price: (items start at RM10, seafood prices are seasonal)

Address:Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Opening hours: Daily 9am – 10pm

Visit Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

Credit: @chisae_000_ on Instagram

A beautiful mosque that looks like it’s floating on the water during high tide. It’s a perfect place to drop by to take some photos and have a prayer too.

Price: Free

Address: Jalan Pasir, Jalan Teluk Likas, Kampung Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Website

White Water Rafting Kiulu

Credit: @iamnabilalit on Instagram

One for the adrenaline junkies! Kiulu white water rafting is the longest white water rafting trip in Borneo. Enjoy a 2-hour session going through the 10km stretch for an epic adventure.

Price: RM190

Address: Tamparuli, Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia 89357

Opening hours: Daily 8am – 3.30pm

Contact: 011-3152 9677

Facebook

Visit Tanjung Aru beach

Credit: @florencechiu_yoyo on Instagram

With sunsets like these, Tanjung Aru beach is one of the most scenic places to unwind after a day of exploring Kota Kinabalu. There are plenty of stalls within the area to have a drink or grab a meal while enjoying a beautiful sunset.

Price: Free

Address: Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Visit Sabah museum

Credit: Hafiz Hakimi on Facebook

Between its beautiful rainforest and amazing diversity, Sabah is a place that we would want to know more about! And the Sabah State Museum is just the place for that. The place consists of a museum building as well as an ethnobotanical garden and a heritage village. There are a number of galleries within the museum that showcases Islamic civilizations, archaeology, history, natural history, ceramics and plenty more! The museum is large enough that you’ll probably spend a good 2-3 hours here.

P.S. Photos aren’t allowed inside the museum.

Price: RM2 (Malaysian) and RM15 (non-Malaysian)

Address: Jalan Muzium, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Opening hours: Daily 9am – 5pm

Website

BONUS: Hang with Orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (requires a flight to Sandakan)

Credit: @lifecrawls on Instagram

A day trip that you’ll never forget! Learn about conservation programs for orangutans and meet and greet these beautiful creatures too. Orangutans are critically endangered species and conservation programs such as these are necessary to help them from going extinct in the near future.

Please note that you'll need to travel to Sandakan (where the centre is located), which is about a 45-minute flight from Kota Kinabalu (with airfare prices averaging around RM100 based on AirAsia prices). Alternatively you can take the bus for cheaper, however, it's a 5-6 hour drive, so flights would probably be the easier way to go!

Price: RM5 (Malaysians) and RM30 (Non- Malaysians)

Address: Sabah Wildlife Department, W.D.T. 200, Sandakan, Jalan Sepilok, Sepilok, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah

Opening hours: Daily 9am – 11am, 2pm – 3pm

FOOD IN KOTA KINABALU

Kampung Nelayan

Credit: Kampung Nelayan Floating Seafood Market Restaurant 渔村水上海鲜餐厅 on Facebook

There are plenty of Muslim-friendly eateries in Sabah, but when you’re in there, a seafood feast is a must! And Kampung Nelayan Floating Seafood Market is just the place for that. Savour drool-worthy fresh seafood for an epic dinner to give your trip and extra oomph!

Halal status: Halal certified

Address: Silverado Corporation Sdn. Bhd., Jalan Kolam, Bukit Padang, 88790, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Opening hours: Daily 11.30am – 2pm, 6.30pm – 11pm

Website | Facebook

We’ve also compiled a 3D2N itinerary for you to conquer Sabah!

ACCOMMODATION IN KOTA KINABALU

Kinabalu Daya Hotel

Credit: Kinabayu Daya Hotel on Facebook

Muslim-Friendly amenities: Halal food available

Price: from RM115/night on Agoda

Address: Lot 3 & 4, Block 9th, Jalan Pantai, Opposite Wisma Merdeka Shopping Complex, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Website | Facebook

Estimated cost breakdown (excluding transportation)

  • Flight = RM300 (based on Malindo Air prices)
  • Accommodation RM267 (incl. taxes for 2 nights based on Agoda)
  • White Water Rafting Kiulu = RM190
  • Sabah Museum = RM2
  • Other attractions listed = free entry
  • ESTIMATED TOTAL COST = RM760 (rounded up)

Please note that this excludes the day trip to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre - to add this on you'll need an additional RM5 for the entry fee and around RM100 for the airfare to Sandakan.

5. Bandung, Indonesia

Check our Bandung itineraries (such as this 4D3N one or our 6D5N one combined with Jakarta for more ideas on planning your trip for Bandung!).

WHAT TO DO IN BANDUNG

Check out artsy Braga Street

Credit: @vinaross23 on Instagram

This street lies in the heart of Bandung and was a popular spot dating back to the 1920s. Be transported back to the colonial era as you stroll by its many cafes, vintage buildings and simply take in its charming atmosphere.

Price: Free

Address: Braga Street, Bandung

Saung Angklung Udjo

Credit: @minanto15 on Instagram

Saung Angklung Udjo is a one-stop cultural workshop that features a wooden puppet show (Wayang Golek), traditional dance and music and interactive sessions where guests can join in on the fun during the performances! Afternoon bamboo musical performances start at 3.30pm daily.

Price: RM32 (weekdays) or RM35 (weekends) (Book tickets here)

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm

Address: Jl. Padasuka No.118, Pasirlayung, Kec. Cibeunying Kidul, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40192, Indonesia

Website|Facebook

Kawah Putih

Credit: @tsalsafira on Instagram

Bandung's famous Kawah Putih (which translates to the white crater) is an extremely beautiful turquoise lake that fills a dormant volcano crater! Be sure to bring masks or buy one there as the smell of the sulphur is very strong. It's located about 50km from the city, about 2.5 hours drive away.

Price: IDR75,000 +IDR15,000 (for the bus shuttle from the parking area to the crater itself) (altogether RM26). 

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm

Address: Jl. Padasuka No.118, Pasirlayung, Kec. Cibeunying Kidul, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40192, Indonesia

Dusun Bambu

Credit: @dusun_bambu on Instagram

Dusun Bambu is an eco-tourism resort located in Bandung that previously used to be abandoned agricultural lands that were revived and converted into a tranquil resort, with beautiful grounds filled with activities and eateries. But even if you're not staying, you'll still be able to enjoy the beautiful settings and activities such as rabbit feeding, riding ATVs, strawberry harvesting, and more

Price: IDR25,000 (RM7) (Please note that certain activities may require additional payment)

Opening hours: 8am - 9pm

Address: Jl. Padasuka No.118, Pasirlayung, Kec. Cibeunying Kidul, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40192, Indonesia

Shop 'til you drop

Credit: @risris17 on Instagram

Bandung is famous for its factory outlets, which makes it an absolute haven for shoppers! So before you head home, make sure to visit these few FO’s and pick up everything you can! (But be weary of fakes, so keep an eye out when you shop!). First off, head to Rumah Mode as you can find everything from branded goods from Ralph Lauren and Armani (to name a few), clothing, shoes and other things as well! It’s often crowded here as it is the most famous FO in Bandung! Next is Heritage Factory Outlet, well known for its old colonial façade outside! A good selection of clothes can be found here, along with a café for you to rest at after shopping! Head on over to Cihampelas Street (also known as Jeans Street) where you can find superheroes featured on every shop! Things aren’t of the best of quality here, but they’re certainly cheap!

WHERE TO STAY

Credit: @ivory_hotel_bandung on Instagram

Check out Ivory Hotel Bandung for a value-for-money hotel that's strategically located near Riau Junction and factory outlets, including Heritage Factory Outlet.

P.S. If you're looking for something a little more special, check out these this list of luxurious resorts, or this list of accommodations nestled in Bandung's beautiful nature!

Price: from RM102/night on Agoda

Address: Jl. Bahureksa no. 3, Bandung 40115

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Estimated cost breakdown (excluding transportation)

  • Flight = RM365 (based on AirAsia  prices)
  • Accommodation = RM247 (incl. taxes for 2 nights Based on Agoda)
  • Saung Angklung Udjo = RM35
  • Kawah Putih = RM26 +RM100 (given the distance to Kawah Putih, we've included an additional budget of RM100 for ground transport)
  • Dusun Bambu = 7
  • Other attractions listed = free entry
  • ESTIMATED TOTAL COST = RM780 (rounded up)

6. Ipoh

WHAT TO DO IN IPOH

Visit Market Lane

Credit: @ndhrtl.ilmi on Instagram

Formerly known as Second Concubine Lane, Market Lane is one of the three popular Concubine Lanes that were rebuilt when the town burnt down in 1892. Take a leisurely stroll down this nostalgic path and enjoy its old-time charm. Find an array of colourful umbrellas hanging on top, shading you from the heat, or snap some unique shots by the many murals on the street – its an easy and great start for your trip to Ipoh!

The other two Concubine Lanes (now known as Lorong Hale and Lorong Panglima) are worth a visit too and have similar vibes to the heritage Market Lane ?

P.S. Don't forget to check out other photo-worthy spots in Ipoh (that are also near halal food!)

Price: Free

Address: Market Lane, Ipoh

Kek Lok Tong Garden and Zen Temples

Credit: @theindianhippie on Instagram

Kek Lok Tong is a Buddhist temple set in a natural limestone cave that's a sight to behold. But what also makes the temple special are its gardens, which span over 12 acres. Beautifully landscaped, with a pond and walking path, it's a nice tranquil spot in Ipoh to walk around.

Entrance fee: Free (donations welcome)

Opening hours: 7am - 6pm

Address: Persiaran Sepakat 3, Taman Endah Jaya, 31350 Ipoh, Negeri Perak

Kellie's Castle

Credit: @norainnaziz on Instagram

Kellie's Castle is located in Batu Gajah (about half an hour drive from Ipoh town). Built by a Scottish man named William Kellie who had come to Malaya in the early 1900s, before his passing led to the castle being abandoned. The castle has long captivated history buffs or those who just want to marvel at its impressive design.

Entrance fee: RM4 (for Malaysians); RM5 for foreigners

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm

Address: 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak

Gua Tempurung

Credit: @iamyhangdragon88 on Instagram

Gua Tempurung is the largest limestone cave in Peninsular Malaysia and an amazing natural site to visit, spanning around 3km long. The cave (located in Gopeng, about 35 minutes drive from Ipoh) has been developed for visitors to see the marvels of its interior, with various routes and tours available - some even including spelunking (cave-diving)! But if that's not your thing, it's still definitely worth it to visit and take one of the easier walking paths available (like the Golden Flowstone and Top Of The World paths) to see the amazing sights.

Entrance fee: RM 6 - 9 (For Golden Flowstone or Top of The World)

Opening hours: 9am - 4pm

Address: Gua Tempurung, 31600 Gopeng, Perak

Han Chin Pet Soo Museum

Credit: @travelaine_loh on Instagram

If you're looking to travel back in time to see Ipoh's past, there's no better place than Han Chin Pet Soo Museum. This former clubhouse of the Hakka Miners Association has been beautifully restored and showcases displays of what the club would have looked like back in its heyday. It gives great insight into the history of the Chinese settlers (specifically from the Hakka community) that came to Ipoh during the mining boom, including its more shadowy elements such the triad activities that were carried on in the club. Visiting the museum requires prior reservation, and you'll be guided by a museum guide to learn more about the club and its past.

Entrance fee: Free (donations welcome, with a recommended donation of RM10 per adult) - Reservations are required. You can make your reservation here.

Museum tours available at:

- Tue to Fri: 9.30 am, 11.30 am, and 2.30 pm

- Sat & Sun: 9.30 am, 11.30 am, 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm

Address: No. 3, Jalan Bijeh Timah (Treacher Street), 30100 Ipoh, Perak

Eat Ipoh's excellent food

No stay in Ipoh is complete without enjoying some of the excellent local fare. Check out this list for all the must-eats in Ipoh.

WHERE TO STAY

Credit: @drnickboden on Instagram

M Boutique Station 18 is super hip and exudes beautiful interiors with a twist of vintage. It also offers bigger rooms than the original M Boutique hotel ? The hotel is also located close to an Aeon, so you can pop by to stock up on snacks the two of you can share while nesting in your beautiful hotel room! (P.S. Check out other amazing accommodations in Ipoh here!)

Rate per night: From RM158 on Agoda

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Address: 15 – 23 Jalan Pengkalan Barat 35, Taman Pengkalan Jaya, Station 18, 31650 Ipoh, Perak

Contact no: +605 321 1666

Estimated cost breakdown (excluding transportation)

  • Transport = Assume driving and budget fuel expenses of RM120
  • Accommodation = RM335 (incl. taxes for 2 nights Based on Agoda)
  • Kellie's Castle = RM4
  • Gua Tempurung = RM9 (Top Of The World route)
  • Han Chin Pet Soo Museum = RM10 (recommended donation)
  • Other attractions listed = free entry
  • ESTIMATED TOTAL COST = RM480 (rounded up)

7. Singapore

Credit: @megaiskanti on Instagram

Haven't dropped by Singapore in a while? Or maybe you have but couldn't get to explore some attractions on your last visit? Well, it's time to make that next visit to Singapore during one of the upcoming long weekends!

Credit: xiquinhosilva on Flickr

Whether you're looking to have some fun at Universal Studio, visit Gardens By The Bay, or just chill in the cafes around Bugis there's so much you can do during a weekend in the city! And it doesn't have to be expensive either, check out our 3D2N itinerary to conquer Singapore for under RM700, as well as our budget hacks to help save costs in Singapore.

Estimated total cost (excluding transport): RM600 (please refer to our detailed 3D2N itinerary, which includes accommodation, attractions such as Universal Studies and eateries, though please note that the itinerary does not include transport. Assuming the main transport is via car and fuel expenses of RM150, estimated total costs would be RM750).

And there you have it! 7 potential locations for a quick and affordable getaway during one of the upcoming long weekends. Go have a trip that will tide you over until your year-end holidays ?