Malaysia shouldn't be overlooked when considering a trip to southeast Asia. Though Thailand often gets top bidding for beach going vacationers, Malaysia is full of white sand beaches and tropical jungles. The Terengganu State on peninsular Malaysia's east coast is home to long stretches of beaches in the temperate waters of the South China Sea. The state's capital is Kuala Terengganu, which is serviced by an airport and major highways to Kuala Lumpur.
Located near one of the Terengganu's many beaches, the Grand Continental Terengganu offers views of the ocean and surrounding villages. The hotel is only minutes from the Kuala Terengganu's famed Floating Mosque and steps from the beach. It operates a restaurant and coffee shop and has a swimming pool for those days when you prefer to avoid the sea.
The Sumai Suite Hotel has some single rooms on offer but specializes in apartment-style suites for families or groups. The hotel rents 2 to 4 bedroom suites for a maximum of 10 people. Each room includes LCD TVs, Astro satellite channels and a mini bar, on request.
The Primula Beach Resort is only a few minutes walk from the center of Kuala Terengganu, nestled between the aquamarine hues of the South China Sea and patches of tropical rainforest. Though it may sound idyllic, this is no boutique hotel, but a massive, 249-room giant dedicated to a luxury lifestyle on the Malaysian coast. The hotel has a private beach and exercise facilities, as well as a shopping arcade and a business center.
There's always a budget option in Malaysia, so if you want to save money, consider the Sankris Lodge in downtown Kuala Terengganu. Taking the second and third floors above a small shop, the Sankris Lodge offers simple accommodation for backpackers. The hotel is only a few minutes walk from the bus terminal and close to the market and food stalls. The hotel only accepts cash.
