Malaysia is an eternal favourite among travellers belonging to all parts of the world. The country boasts of an amazing variety of attractions and also offers a lip-smacking cuisine. A trip to Malaysia can be conducted with minimum expense. Here are some to plan your vacation on a budget.
The flight fares from India to Malaysia are moderate. There are several services from Kerala, too, for which a one-way ticket would cost under Rs 10,000. The travel time from Kerala to Malaysia is approximately five hours. Moreover, visa formalities are rather simple. A single entry visa valid for 15 days can be obtained quickly. Application can be made through the site of Malaysian Emigration and the visa will be released within one day.
Meanwhile, the validity of a multiple entry visa which is stamped on the passport is one year. Formalities for this category of visa have to be completed at the Malaysian consulate in Chennai. Visa seekers can apply directly or through a travel agency. It may take at least a week for the visa to be issued.
Kuala Lumpur
Buses and taxis are available to take travellers anywhere, but money can be saved by walking for short distances in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia's attractions range from UNESCO heritage sites to some of the tallest high-rises in the world.
Among the most popular sights in Malaysia is the Petronas tower, which is most attractive at night with stunning illumination. The tower has earned several accolades, including the world's tallest twin tower, the tallest skybridge and the fifth tallest building. Built in Argentinian-American architectural style, majority of travellers to Malaysia ensure that they visit the Petronas towers.
However, there are restrictions for entering the skybridge of the Petronas. Only 1,700 visitors are allowed each day on first come, first served basis. The skybridge is closed for visitors on Mondays.
Malaysia also flaunts several shopping malls, but making purchases from there may burn a hole in one's pocket. However, visitors can take a stroll inside the malls to save money.
The best place to buy items at moderate cost in Malaysia is Jalan Petaling Street. It is a Chinese market offering stuff that rivals any original product.
Other major tourist spots in Malaysia include Jalan Damansara, the national museum; KL Tower; Sea Aquarium and Batu Caves, a Muruga temple in the hills.
Expenses can be reduced further by staying in budget hotels and choosing Indian restaurants and street-side eateries for food. At Bukit Bintang street, Chinese, Arabic and Indian cuisine as well as sea food are available at cheap prices. The tasty, affordable food lures a large number of people to Bukit Bintang, making it always crowded.
Beyond the capital
Apart from the capital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia flaunts exotic destinations such as Malacca, Langkawi and Kuching.
In a nutshell, the two main points to remember while planning a budget trip to Malaysia is to take care of your belongings while in the country and spend money wisely.
