As the year-end holidays approach, many Malaysians will start planning their next getaway. Whether a relaxing beach retreat, a food adventure, or a cultural city tour, the anticipation of discovering new experiences brings excitement in the air!
If you’re looking for a holiday abroad with scenic routes, or simply prefer a budget-friendly transport option to your next destination, check out these four flight-free recommendations. The best part is, by eschewing air travel, you’re doing a part in reducing your carbon footprint and helping the planet.
1. Take the train to Hatyai
Beyond the hustle of Bangkok and the tranquillity of Krabi lies this popular city in the southern part of Thailand. A vibrant destination bordering Malaysia, Hatyai is an easy journey away by train.
KTM offers a limited train service operated by My Sawasdee, departing from KL Sentral with stops at Tanjung Malim, Ipoh and Taiping, and ending at Padang Besar. There, you’ll pass through immigration before reboarding the train to reach Hatyai.
Travellers will immerse themselves in 11 hours of Malaysia’s rural scenery and experience a sleeper-train adventure before reaching Hatyai. Prices for a one-way ticket range from RM95 to RM120. All aboard!
2. Hop on a ferry to Koh Lipe
Looking for an island getaway? While Langkawi may be the location of choice for many, consider hopping on a ferry to the nearby Thai island of Koh Lipe!
To get there, take the ferry from Kuah Jetty or the Telaga Terminal. The trip will only take about 90 minutes.
During the monsoon season, these ferries are often closed, so always look out for the best times to visit the islands, usually from October to May. Return trips will set you back about RM300 or more, depending on the terminal.
Stay a few nights to tick some things off your bucket list: snorkel in crystal-clear waters, enjoy delicious seafood, and visit the surrounding islands.
3. Head to Batam by ferry
Indonesia offers affordable and exciting destinations for travellers. Popular with Johor folks and Singaporeans in particular, Batam is the perfect getaway for a blend of hospitality, culture, city, and island sights.
The typical route from Malaysia would be through Johor, starting at the Berjaya Waterfront Ferry Terminal. Tickets, which cost about RM120 (one way) inclusive of port fees, can be purchased in Johor and Batam; alternatively, book ahead online.
The journey will be a comfy two hours where you can lose yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the ocean.
4. Journey to Singapore by train
Want to skip busy airports and heavy traffic for your next Singapore visit? Take the train! The breathtaking scenery and countryside sights will be worth the six-hour journey.
To get to Singapore, take the ETS from KL Sentral to Gemas. There, switch over to the JB Sentral train, and then hop onto the shuttle train from JB Sentral to Woodlands. If you want some shuteye, sleeper cabins are available.
Ticket prices range from RM18 to RM135 for adults. Just make sure to book all of your train tickets ahead of time, and check the schedules to avoid delays. Happy and safe travels!