With COVID-19 and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it doesn't seem like the economy is going to recover soon. But, we shouldn't let that stop us from living our best lives! We just have to live our best lives, on a budget.
So if you are into the whole living on a budget, you'll definitely have to visit these budget-friendly destinations in our own beautiful country:
1. Taiping, Perak
One of the most historical towns in Malaysia where there are 33 firsts, like the first-ever zoo, railway station, prison and many more in Malaysia. Besides that, is it a quiet town with lots of greenery and a lot of rain which is why it is also called Raintown. So don't forget to bring your umbrella!
Some of the places your can visit are:
- Bukit Larut (approx. RM 10 for jeep. Free for hikes)
- Taiping Lake Gardens (Free)
- Taiping Zoo and Night Safari (approx. Adults RM 16, Children (3 to 12 years) RM 8)
- Perak Museum (approx. RM 2 for adults)
#2 Muar, Johor
Muar is a good place for people who want a more laid back trip with cheap but good food, interesting historical sites and of course beautiful nature spots.
Some of the places you must visit are:
- Gunung Ledang National Park (approx. RM2 per car and RM1 per person - Gunung Ledang Resort entrance)
- Food Street Jalan Haji Abu
- Grisek Hot Spring
- Tanjung Emas
#3 Kuantan, Pahang
Nature lovers must spend a weekend at Kuantan just exploring the many magical waterfalls and beaches it has to offer. Be sure to bring a picnic basket with you so that you can enjoy some delicious snacks after a good swim.
Some of the must-see spots are:
- Teluk Cempedak
- Lembing Rainbow Waterfall (You will have to book a guide for this, price depends on the guide)
- Sungai Pandan Waterfall (approx. RM 2 for Malaysian adults, RM 3 for parking)
- Gua Charas (approx. RM2 per person per entry)
#4 Sekinchan, Selangor
If you've ever taken the old road to KL from the north, then you may have passed Sekinchan. It is a small town known for its golden paddy fields that stretch out into the horizon.
Some of the places to go in Sekinchan are:
- Sekinchan Paddy Fields
- Paddy Gallery (approx. RM 5 per person)
- Sekinchan Wishing Tree
- Mango King (drinks and fruits)
#5 Kangar, Perlis
Who knew that this small town in Perlis would have so much to offer? They have so many must-visit nature spots and don't worry, after the hikes and exploring, you get to dine on delicious local food that will fill you up!
Some of the best places to go are:
- Gua Kelam (approx. RM 5 per adult)
- Taman Eko Rimba Bukit Ayer (approx. RM 5 for parking)
- Bukit Chabang
- Warung Tepi Sawah
#6 Taman Negara, Pahang
The Pahang National Park is definitely a place that you want to visit at least once since it is one of the oldest tropical rainforests. Taman Negara has a total area of 4,343 km2 and is said to be more than 130 million years old. You'll have to pay an entrance permit of RM 1.
Here's what you can do there:
- Canopy Walkway (approx. RM 5.00 for adults, RM3.00 for children)
- Lata Berkoh Waterfall (approx. RM240 per boat for 4 people)
- Orang Asli Settlements (price depending on tour guide)
- Jungle Trekking
Do you know of any other budget-friendly destinations in the country? Please leave your suggestions in the comments section!