What budget for activities and outings Malaysia?
Entrance to a museum costs between RM5 and RM30. There are always discounts for children and sometimes senior citizens. Entrances to National Parks are also very inexpensive, from RM5 to RM20. On the other hand, admission to animal rehabilitation centers or amusement parks can be quite expensive (between RM30 and RM200) and can quickly add to your budget.
Malaysia is a vast playground, offering a wide range of outdoor and water-based activities. It's a highly reputed diving destination, and while there aren't many spots to choose from, prices are still very reasonable. The average price for a dive with equipment is €30. If you're planning to spend some time on the islands, it's a good idea to buy fins, mask and snorkel before you leave or on arrival. You'll quickly recoup your investment. Hiking is also very easy. The National Parks are numerous and inexpensive to get into (€2.50 on average), and there are always marked trails that don't require a guide. On the other hand, for hikes lasting several days, the presence of a guide is compulsory. In this case, the guide's services cost €15 per day. Some popular tourist destinations, such as Sipadan Marine Park or Mount Kinabalu Park, require a special permit for access, which you should factor into your budget. These permits are obtained through travel agencies or local hotels, and their cost will be included in your package. For example, hoteliers in Sipadan will oblige you to take a minimum package of 3 days and 2 nights, without guaranteeing you access to the marine reserve. This practice could almost be classified as a "tourist trap", but as it is practiced by all operators, you'll have no choice.
The cost of living is much lower in Malaysia, and bargains can be found in electronics, telephony, clothing and wooden furniture. You'll also find a number of very inexpensive handicrafts, such as rattan or bamboo baskets and printed fabrics. Langkawi is a duty-free port. You can stock up on tax-free products (alcohol, tobacco, perfume, etc.) at the island's duty-free shops, and also buy everyday consumer goods at lower prices.
Entry to clubs is cheaper than in Europe. A RM50 ticket is all you need to enter Kuala Lumpur's trendiest clubs. Prices vary according to the venue, its program and the day of the week. Most clubs offer "happy hour" at the end of the day/beginning of the evening to attract the off-peak crowds.
What budget to eat Malaysia?
It's possible to eat very cheaply in Malaysia, especially in night markets where portions rarely exceed RM5. The same goes for small restaurants in traditional shop-houses or food-courts, where the bill will rarely exceed RM20 per person. Traditional restaurants are more expensive, mainly because of the setting and the fact that the rooms are air-conditioned. The price also correlates with the specialties served (shrimp will always be more expensive than chicken), whether or not the products are imported (as may be the case in foreign specialty restaurants) and the standing of the establishment.
You'll be asked to pay your bill in cash in smaller restaurants, and you'll be able to pay by credit card in more upscale establishments.
A cup of coffee or tea shouldn't cost you more than RM5 in a kopitiam, RM10 in a more upscale café. Alcohol is sold at about the same price as in Europe. It is a little more expensive on the peninsula than in Borneo, however. You should expect to pay between RM12 and RM15 for a beer (30 cl) and RM25 and RM30 for a cocktail.
There is one major exception. Langkawi Island is a duty-free port. Local beer is sold at an average price of RM7.
What is the budget for accommodation Malaysia?
Malaysia. Small, inexpensive hotels with rates of no more than RM50 per night are often very basic and not always impeccably clean. Decoration is basic. As you move upmarket, comfort improves, but not always good taste. Nevertheless, boutique hotels are opening up in medium-sized towns of tourist interest. High-class hotels offer impeccable service and tastefully decorated rooms. But not everyone can afford the dream. Rates range from RM500 to over RM1,000 per night.
Singapore. The city is expensive, and you'll be hard-pressed to find accommodation for less than S$60 a night. There are many mid-range hotels offering accommodation for between S$100 and S$150 a night. We have selected the most comfortable hotels with a certain charm. There are many hotels belonging to the major international chains. A minimum of US$250 is required for a double room. It's advisable to book before you leave, although once you're there, you'll find it relatively easy to find vacant rooms.
In Brunei. You'll be spoilt for choice in the Sultanate of Brunei, a small territory of 400,000 inhabitants. Given the quality of the mid-range and top-of-the-range establishments, it's definitely advisable to treat yourself while you're there. For lovers of luxury, the Empire Hotel is a must.
The rates given in this guide apply to a double room, except in the dormitory, where it's a single bed.
Travel budget Malaysia and cost of living
Small budget. For 35 € per day, you will sleep in simple accommodation or in a dormitory, take care of your travel by bus, metro or taxi, visit free museums or go hiking, have two meals in a foodcourt or in small street restaurants. You can even treat yourself to a drink in the evening and make a few small purchases.
Average budget. Between 45 € and 100 € per day, you will sleep in a charming hotel, travel by train, bus, metro or taxi, visit the most beautiful museums and national parks, travel to the islands, and eat in air-conditioned restaurants. You can also treat yourself to a drink in the evening and stock up on handicraft souvenirs.
Big budget. For more than 120 € per day, you will sleep in the best hotels, can call on a travel agent, take a plane for long journeys, reach the most remote places, and eat in the best restaurants. You can take advantage of attractive prices on electronics and computers or invest in antiques.
Taxes and tip. Most restaurants add a 10% tax for the service. If you see "++" at the bottom of your menu, it means that 15% will be added to your bill for taxes and service. Tipping is not a common practice in Malaysia.
