If you're planning your next holiday in the sun, Bali and Malaysia are fantastic destinations to add to your shortlist. The question is, how do you decide where to go? Read on to find our more helpful facts about each place that could make your decision easier.
Of course, being ideal candidates for sunny breaks, they both offer good weather; so, we will instead focus on their additional attractions. After all, booking the perfect summer holiday is all about picking somewhere with a mix of things to do and see that matches your personal interests, as well as finding a destination with balmy climes. When the time comes for you to book your hotel and flights, you can get good deals on luxury options through companies like Airworld Tours.
The lowdown on Malaysia
Let's begin with Malaysia. This country in south-east Asia is famous for its wonderful diversity, which spans both the landscape and culture. Come here and you can dive into a cultural melting pot of Indian, Malay and Chinese influences - to name but a few - which is reflected in everything from the delicious cuisine to its packed festival calendar.
A great thing about picking Malaysia as your destination is that you can see modern and traditional life living side by side - for example, little wooden buildings close to towering skyscrapers. Plus, if you fancy a lively city break, you can head somewhere like Penang, while places such as Langkawi are perfect for secluded getaways.
Among Bali's most exciting attractions are Kek Lok Si, which is one of Malaysia's most sacred temples and located in Penang, and the Batu Caves in Selangor. These are home to a Hindu temple, impressive statues, cave paintings and much more.
Go there if... You want to experience a diverse culture filled with exciting contrasts, as well as have the freedom to pick from a huge range of attractions and whether you want a city break or a quiet retreat.
The lowdown on Bali
A province in Indonesia, Bali is a beautiful island home to fascinating temples, delicious food and gorgeous beaches. Like Malaysia, it has a number of cultural influences, with Hindu influences being particularly prominent; Indian and Chinese are also notable.
Bali is somewhere perfect for experiencing more traditional ways of life, since village life is an important part of society here. Among the top things to see and do while you're here include relaxing on Kuta beach and Nusa Dua beach, both of which are scenic and have good tourist infrastructures, as well as visiting temples such as Pura Besakih Temple Complex.
Sampling the local food is another must. In Bali, meals tend to be buffet-style and some popular dishes include ares - a kind of soup - and bebuk betutu, which is steamed duck and vegetables wrapped in a banana leaf.
Go there if... You want to get away from it all and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life. It's also perfect for anyone hoping to explore traditional cultures and to see impressive temples.
