Cities tend to be crowded. This is not to say it is better than the other two just easier. Traveldrafts.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Thailand offers a much better party atmosphere and is infamous for drinking, sex, and ganja. 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. Perhentian islands is another popular tourist attraction in Malaysia with beaches that can compare to Thailand. One of the most popular foods in Malaysia is Rendang. Borneo I lived six months in Kota Kinabalu of Borneo. When it comes to public transportation, both countries offer affordable options. Thailand vs. Malaysia Tourist Destination Winner: Thailand wins with the most tourist attractions. Bangkok Tourism Bangkok Hotels Its laid back, quiet by Thai standards, and the perfect place to unwind. This small East Coast island is home to the most famous parties in Thailand and 10,000 to 30,000 people flock to them every month. You can expect a variety of aromatic spices, including cinnamon, cumin, and coriander in Malaysian cuisine. In general, one can find hostels and guest houses for no more than $10 to $15 per night for a double room. The Most Dangerous Animals in Ohio: 7 Creatures You Should Definitely Avoid. I didnt stay for six months because I loved the city. Thailand and Malaysia are two stunning countries in Southeast Asia with diverse landscapes that offer unique experiences to travelers. Another popular destination is the ancient city of Ayutthaya, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and features numerous temple ruins and ancient structures. I have lived in both Malaysia and Thailand and currently living in KL city. Be sure to settle on a fare beforehand or utilize the meter to prevent overpaying. Also, both countries are pretty cheap. 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. This is another easy win for Thailand. Then there is Phuket, where nightlife is varied it would not be wrong to say it is a bit EXTREME. and also help me in which cities the best attraction places are? Which one is it and why? However, the overall cost of travel may vary depending on individual preferences and travel goals. Although the country is at low risk for scams on tourists, petty crime is common such as bag snatching. There are plenty of options available for you to travel around Malaysia with ease. I highly recommend spending the majority of your time in Borneo out in nature which is what makes the place special. Summary: Personally speaking, it is quite difficult comparing these two countries as they are very different. As we said above, Malaysia is a mixture of these three different cultures, and that really shows in culinary. Living in Malaysia VS Thailand - Which is Better?How to Survive the 21st Century https://guide.nomadelites.com/Get personalized advice now https://cal. A little research is all you need to find a suitable place that too within a budget. which one is better for family visit 7 years ago Save which country is better in terms of shopping malls,beaches,adventurous places,amusement parks etc.we will not visit any temples or historical places. We've taken ours through rivers, jungles, and cities and they're still alive and kickin'. Summary: Both cuisines offer very rich and unique flavors. Both countries have extremely affordable food and accommodations. While there are plenty of spots to dive in Malaysia, you can only encounter massive whale sharks in Thailand during diving trips. View all posts by Wandering our World. Another popular destination is George Town, the capital of the Malaysian state of Penang. Which South-Eastern Asia Country should be your next travel destination? Other adventurous activities include but not limited to bungee jumping, skydiving and giant rope swings. Bangkok. Answer 21 of 34: Which country is better in terms of shopping malls,beaches,adventurous places,amusement parks etc.we will not visit any temples or historical places. 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. Beaches and islands are abundant here with fine white sand, turquoise waters, stunning rock formations and diverse flora and fauna. Accessible only by boat from Ao Nang, Ton Sai beach offers the perfect balance of chilling and activity (like rock climbing, kayaking or diving). Thailand and Malaysia both have huge night markets where you can find anything and everything. Malaysia is a multi-religious and multi-ethnic country, although 60% of the population are practicing Muslims. The only drawback in terms of food here is not many options are available for those who are not into seafood or vegetarian dishes. Just remember that traffic can be a nightmare in both countries, especially in cities. Read the rest below: Or, explore the complete Country Comparison Series for more showdowns from around the world. By the end, you should have a better idea of each country and the experience you want to have in each. Its authentic. 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. Since both countries are built up for tourism, there are easy connections between places. Overall, Thailand and Malaysia have amazing nightlife experiences, with something for everyone, from wild parties to calmer nights sipping cocktails. Matter of fact, I wouldnt recommend spending more than a few days there. Inland Thailand offers a wealth of beautiful temples, majestic mountains, and bustling cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. With some preparation and flexibility, exploring Thailand is easy-peasy. Malaysia is truly a culturally diverse land with attractive places to visit. You have Indian and Chinese religions, foods, temples, tourist attractions, and obviously people. Malaysia has better food including outstanding Indian and Chinese food. As budget travelers and bloggers, we tend to keep track of all our expenses during a trip so that we can compare costs. For instance, disrespecting the king is forbidden in Thailand, and narcotics possession and distribution are forbidden in Malaysia. We havent been to Koh Lipe, but we have many fellow bloggers telling us that it is the best paradisiac island in Thailand. Apart from this, Malaysia has a lot of other National Parks worth visiting. Visitors enjoy varied experiences at both destinations in terms of food, activities, nightlife and mainly, budget. The only problem with Thailand is that its so popular and touristy that its becoming less authentic. Bangkok. Thai food is famous around the world and no wonder so if youre a food lover, Thailand is going to be a dream destination and arguably better than Malaysia. Thailand also has plenty of hikes, but they arent remotely as impressive as the ones in Malaysia. Last updated on January 26, 2023 by Wandering our World. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts! PS. You would think Thailand and Malaysia being so close together would be very similar places to live. One thing thats extraordinary is the Erawan Falls, also in the Kanchanaburi region, and obviously some of the beaches. This spicy meat dish (usually beef or chicken) is made by slow-cooking the meat along with coconut milk, chilli and spices. Its fairly easy to find very lovely Malaysians (particularly the Indians), but in general, they dont care much for the tourists. Below, I will break down my experiences in each country as well as highlight some key differences in culture and traditions in each. Asians are well known for being quite crazy when driving, and our experience matches this cliche. Malaysian food is beginning to appear around the world, with dishes like Satay now found in the US, UK, and other nations. Transportation costs in Thailand are around $10, a bit more costly than Malaysia's $9.95. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Bangkok the most visited city in the world. You wont have problems in Malaysia or Thailand unless you are a heavy drinker / huge partygoer. So Malaysia wins this item, but youll hardly have any problems moving around in Thailand. Whether you prefer city life, beach destinations, island life, or mountainous terrain, both countries have them. Get a quote below! Bangkok Tourism Bangkok Hotels We found that both countries had problems with waste management, particularly where there are many tourists, like the Phi Phi islands, Phuket, or Penang. Want to find out how Thailand compares to other place? Founded by a former globetrotting freelance journalist (BBC, USA Today & others), now our small team is here to help you plan your next adventure! To the OP if halal food is main concerns then head to Malaysia. However, Thailand has catered to tourists more in each type of destination. When it comes to getting around Thailand and Malaysia, youll have a few options to get yourself from A to B. The number of beaches and islands in Malaysia is relatively less as compared to Thailand. Around 90% of Thais identify as Buddhists, and theres also a significant Hindu influence in the country too. While Thai is the official language of Thailand, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and cities. Posted by Adam Cheshier | Last updated Nov 6, 2022. By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies, plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers! Southeast Asia is one of those regions that everyone wants to travel to at least once in a lifetime, and why not? Should I visit Thailand or Malaysia? In Thailand, the infrastructure isnt as well integrated, and in most towns, there arent many public transport options you may need to use many more tuk-tuks. So, you should choose to travel to Malaysia if you: On the other hand, you should travel to Thailand if you: Note that both destinations have good beaches, amazing food, and are, in general inexpensive, safe, and easy to travel to! Hostel and Guesthouse Reviews, The Best Hostels in Malaysia for Backpackers and Budget Travellers, Travel Insurance for Budget Travellers: Comparing Your Options, Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions. Malacca: A historic city on the west coast of Malaysia, is another must-visit destination. Keep up with his travels on his blog at wanderwayer.com or connect with him on Pinterest. Moving around Malaysia is relatively simple and economical, with various modes of transportation to choose from, especially when youre in Kuala Lumpur which is a huge hub in Asia. Both Coconut milk and palm sugar are used to balance the sweet and savory flavors. Its calm, quiet, and a perfect place to unwind from the stress of everyday life. In fact thats something weve even written about in the past. Visitors can explore the citys many temples, museums, and historic buildings, such as the A Famosa Fort and St. Pauls Church. You can pay under $1 USD for local trips. Thailand is indeed a beautiful country to visit, but with a bit of extra care, you can make your trip more exciting. Dont spend your time in the cities of Borneo (although more developed than most of Southeast Asia, its not what makes Borneo special). So theyre great destinations for a sunseeker thats also looking for some adventure. Posted by Adam Cheshier | Last updated Nov 6, 2022 This post contains affiliate links. Thai food frequently incorporates a variety of fresh herbs such as basil, coriander, and mint, while Malaysian cuisine often features ingredients like pandan leaves and turmeric. Hands down, Thailand wins with the most diverse beach destinations. When you do your research my advice is to use a regular computer vs a phone for better comparisons. It has unique dishes, strong but balanced flavors, and fresh ingredients. Thailand Or Hawaii: The Honest Comparison [2023] You Need! The production of tea was a major economic factor during colonization, and Boh Plantation which you can visit still exists from that time. Photo by Mukiibi John Elijah from Unsplash. There are activities for everyone, from the most ordinary bars to the infamous Ping Pong shows and ladyboys. This barely visited region of Thailand as weve written about before is home to breathtaking national parks, hiking trails, elephants, and even temples built on volcanoes! Both countries offer visitors an array of activities and experiences, from vibrant nightlife scenes to serene natural beauty. for foreigners and its a fantastic way to get to know this country and culture. Cities in peninsular Malaysia have become known as the foodie capital in Southeast Asia. For those who prefer more freedom and control while traversing Malaysia, renting a car or motorbike is also possible. Now, lets see what both countries have to offer culturally. On both trips, we included everything we spent, including bank fees and souvenirs, except fly-in/out, and we traveled as a couple. The underwater world in Thailand is rich with marine life, which is visible clearly. Although, neither of these destinations is a good one if you want to go to an untouristic destination. The weather is nice, the beaches are gorgeous, and the culture is rich. Keep in mind the cost of flights and hotels too. We did a few but we only really enjoyed it in Kanchanaburi, but it was primarily because of the history of the place than nature. Unlike Malaysia, you can find many secluded beaches away from the bustling crowds of cities such as Nai Harn Beach and Koh Kood. Visitors should respect and abide by any applicable local ordinances. In summary, both Thailand and Malaysia have rich cultural histories and unique customs and traditions that are worth experiencing. I spent multiple months in each sometimes in exotic, untraveled places and sometimes in the most visited places on earth. Despite the more significant communication problems, Thailand wins this one. The majority of people, if traveling to only Malaysia or Thailand, would choose to travel to Thailand. Bangkok. We will have to give a tie to this one because it depends on what you want to experience. Langkawi is the exception here; for some reason, there isnt public transport on the island, and you have to use taxis or rent a car. Bangkok. For something a little less known, Thailands remote and rarely visited northeast Isaan has a traditional dish called Laap which is delicious. So, Thailand wins this one, without a doubt. Compare hotel prices here: Thailand Hotel Prices and Malaysia Hotel Prices. While Malaysia boasts gorgeous islands, stunning national parks, and a diverse mix of cultures that make it a unique and fascinating visit. Answer 31 of 34: Which country is better in terms of shopping malls,beaches,adventurous places,amusement parks etc.we will not visit any temples or historical places. However, they offer different yet unique spots to explore. 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. All of this makes visiting Malaysia an incredibly rich experience. Despite the massive number of tourists, Thailand is a country where we always felt at ease and welcomed. Koh Lipe is probably the most beautiful island in Thailand rivals any beach in the world. Its not the most amazing city in Malaysia. Want to explore a melting pot of cultures between Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Colonialism legacy; Its important to note that the locals speak English; Want to hike in National Parks and tropical forests. Matter of fact, I wouldnt recommend spending more than a few days there. Made from red beans, palm seeds, sweet corn, peanuts and shaved ice (an eclectic mix! Taxis and ride-hailing services are also reasonably priced, with short trip fares beginning at around $2 USD. Phuket and Langkawi have excellent high-end resorts. This article is part of the Southeast Asia Smackdown series. The cuisine is known for its potent, spicy flavors that blend sweet, sour, and spice. Often, visitors dont spend more than three or four days in this city. And some of the places you have chosen can be very crowded indeed, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Pattaya, parts of Penang and Phuket. Malaysia is more culturally diverse, and tourists will have a more authentic experience there. In our opinion, Malaysian outdoor activities are much better than in Thailand. Mountain hiking, jungle trekking, beach chilling, or scuba diving Borneo offers all of it! The Malay is obviously the dominant one, but both Indians and Chinese are very visible everywhere in Malaysia. If you are anything like us, you are a budget traveler, and you dont want to spend more than you need. Monks wearing orange robes are a common sight, and its important to dress conservatively when visiting these sacred sites. Southeast Asia is one of those regions of the world everyone wants to visit at some point in their lifetime. These differences become even more noticable if you plan to spend a longer time in the country. 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. Guided jungle treks, river exploration by boat, and canopy walks are just some of the activities available for visitors. In terms of hotels and resorts, Malaysia and Thailand have many options, particularly in popular destinations. Summary: Overall, people say that Malaysia is a cheaper destination but in my opinion, they are about the same. Thailand or Malaysia? Which is Better? The vibrant cultures, incredible food, breathtaking landscape and exotic wildlife sum up the lure of this part of the globe and Malaysia and Thailand are no exception. The buses are good, frequent, easy to use and reach everywhere. So if youre looking for parties and fun past midnight, Thailand would be the best choice. By figuring out which country is more expensive, you'll understand where you'll get more bang for your buck. Why I prefer Malaysia to Thailand (mostly) for Residency Written by Adam Wright, Sport & Exercise Science BSc (Hons). I stayed in Sabah (the region of Kota Kinabalu) because of the other-worldly nature that Borneo has. Once an important trading port, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. iStock.com/kasto80 Both countries have spectacular landscapes away from the coastline as well as jaw-dropping wildlife - but Malaysia is probably the better choice for wildlife seekers. Malaysias local cuisine is loved by many across the world. The main Phi Phi island and Phuket were just downright horrible. However, there are so many tourists in Thailand that theres always a way of getting to the places where you want to be. The people are friendly, the environment is relaxed, and its a country where people tend to feel at home easily its perfect for slow traveling and digital nomads. Answer 11 of 34: Which country is better in terms of shopping malls,beaches,adventurous places,amusement parks etc.we will not visit any temples or historical places. 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. and also help me in which cities the best attraction places are? To conclude, both Thailand and Malaysia provide travelers with fantastic travel experiences that are worth exploring. When you do your research my advice is to use a regular computer vs a phone for better comparisons. 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, Bangkok Vs Chiang Mai (Where Is Better To Visit? Our favorite outdoor activity in Malaysia is hiking in the forests and national parks. Bangkok Tourism Bangkok Accommodation Bangkok the most visited city in the world. In Malaysia, Grab rides are generally cheaper than taxis, and public transportation is also reasonably priced. Overall, the cuisine of Thailand and Malaysia is diverse and flavorful, with unique ingredients and flavors that set them apart. They are completely different though. It is a popular destination in Malaysia if you want a seaside getaway. The countrys Borneo region is arguably one of the best places for wildlife in the world, with elephants, tigers, and leopards among other species. When it comes to cultural attractions, Thailand is known for its ornate temples and historical sites. But if you prefer the Malls, Malaysia, particularly Kuala Lumpur, is the better choice. Top universities. and also help me in which cities the best attraction places are? Bangkok Tourism Bangkok Hotels Bangkok Guest House Both countries have their pros and cons. but offer more comfort and safety. Neither of the countries is similar to Laos or Cambodia, but its still a very different experience from the Western world. Start here to learn more about our mission and how to get the most out of the site! However, Malaysia takes it to the next level, the forests, parks, reserves, and national parks are incredible, and still, have plenty of wildlife. This gorgeous long stretch of white sand has shallow warm water perfect for swimming. Both Malaysia and Thailand are world-renowned for their beaches, but which one has the best beaches? Explore unique stays on Airbnb likethis 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. Thai people are really good hosts and seem to enjoy having tourists around. However, it doesnt really matter how many wins a destination has, its all about how it matches your expectations and what you want to take from this trip! In terms of long-haul buses, we believe the countries are very similar. You must try Thailands comfort food Khao Phat as well. Bangkok Tourism Bangkok Hotels By comparison Thais have generally above average English skills for SE Asia, but most wont be able to converse with you beyond basic business transactions. We have written it before and repeat it, in Thailand, there are tourists everywhere, and everything is a tourist attraction. We will have to give another tie on this one. Malaysians have terrible smoking etiquette and seem to treat non-smoking signs as mere suggestions. Both countries have well-established transport systems so youll be in good hands. It is! Thailand is very different, it was never really colonized by external powers, which created a very unique culture. Prices are subjected to change depending on the seasons. When it comes to comparing the cost of traveling, Malaysia is generally slightly cheaper than Thailand, particularly in terms of food and drink expenses. Thailand and Malaysia are two distinct countries that differ significantly in terms of culture, landscape, food, and lifestyle. There are only a few places with a handful of beaches, such as Langkawi a renowned beach destination. Thailand is renowned for its vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and extensive cultural history. Are you planning your next adventure but cant decide on Thailand vs Malaysia? thailand or malaysia? Malaysia a conservative Muslim country. For fantastic beaches, head out into the islands. Compare Thailand vs Malaysia and choose which one you like better. So, sadly, this is more like which is the least bad of the two. Check out some of our comparison guides. Gippy3000. Which South-Eastern Asia Country should be your next travel destination? And it is also a very easy call. We loved Thai food so much that we even did a cooking class. 2020 Year in Review: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, Best Places to Go Hiking in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Why You NEED to Celebrate Small Christmas in 2020, 7 Best Restaurants in West Hollywood (From a Local), The Complete Guide to Craft Beer in Las Cruces. The cuisines of Malaysia and Thailand are well known for their rich and varied flavours, which are crafted from fresh ingredients and cultural influences. The country's Borneo region is arguably one of the best places for wildlife in the world, with elephants, tigers, and leopards among other species. and also help me in which cities the best attraction places are? However alcohol is also much more expensive in Malaysia, so if you love your evening drinks, then Thailand could be a better option. If youre comfortable with riding a motorbike, motorbike taxis are a convenient and economical choice, particularly in busy cities like Bangkok. This is a very important issue and a very trendy one. Overall, transportation options in Thailand and Malaysia are accessible and affordable with both countries having a well-established transport infrastructure. This is good hearty fried rice that comes combined with a variety of ingredients. Though Malaysia and Thailand share a border, yet they are entirely different from each other. It is the city of quirk and the unusual. Nightlife is one of the most famous things about Thailand. Both Thailand and Malaysia have breathtaking beaches ranging from popular names to secluded spots on uninhabited islands. Beaches for relaxing, a famous nightlife and party scene, and food thats known around the globe. Thats why were here to help! Welcome to Wandering our World! I enjoy Malaysian food more than Thai food. Although shopping is possibly the last reason we use to choose a travel destination, we know many of you love to shop while traveling, and theres nothing wrong with that. In Thailand, we found ourselves underwhelmed, honestly. The most well-known Thai dishes include Tom Yum Goong, a hot soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and lime juice, and of course Pad Thai (one of my personal favorites), a stir-fried noodle dish with shrimp, egg, and peanuts. and also help me in which cities the best attraction places are?