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Hype Malaysia
19-07-2025
- Hype Malaysia
Semporna, Kuala Terengganu, & Tioman Are This Season's Top Cool Weather Local Getaway Destinations
Facts! Agoda's latest data reveals that Semporna, Kuala Terengganu, and Tioman Island are experiencing a rise in travel interest for cool-weather escapes as Malaysia faces hotter and more humid weather this summer. With wet-bulb temperatures and high humidity expected to persist across Malaysia through September, local travellers are increasingly drawn to breezy beach escapes. According to Agoda, searches for these coastal destinations in May 2025, for stays between June and August, rose by a combined 35% compared to the same period last year. The trend? Swapping city swelter for refreshing island mornings, seaside airflow, and ocean-cooled evenings, proving that when the heat is on, Malaysians may head for the water. Here's how each destination is making waves this season: Semporna: With a 38% rise in searches, Semporna is attracting growing interest this season. Its breezy seascapes, stays in stilted homes, and sun-dappled boat rides offer plenty of natural ventilation. But for many, the real cool-down happens below the surface. From snorkelling off Mabul or Kapalai to diving among the breathtaking walls of Sipadan, underwater exploration offers a literal escape from the city heat, where coral gardens and calm currents replace concrete and humidity. Kuala Terengganu: Search interest for this East Coast gem climbed 37% year-on-year, as more travellers look to coastal cities with culture and charm. Known for its rich heritage and breezy shorelines, Kuala Terengganu offers beachfront views, artistic performances along Pantai Batu Buruk, and peaceful strolls through waterfront markets. Visitors can cool off with fresh coconut shakes, explore traditional boat-making villages, or unwind in shaded cafes by the South China Sea — all perfect for those seeking a laid-back escape where sea spray and gentle winds help take the edge off the heat. Tioman Island: Interest in this lush island grew as searches rose 27% compared to the same period last year. Forest-backed resorts shaded by jungle canopies offer pockets of calm where sun and humidity feel a little less intense. Travellers can hike into the island's rainforest interior and cool off in natural freshwater pools like the Asah Waterfall. Between shaded swims and jungle treks, Tioman promises a slower, breezier pace perfect for heat-weary holidaymakers. Fabian Teja, Country Director Malaysia at Agoda, said: 'With increased interest in coastal destinations, we're seeing that more travellers may be gravitating toward places that offer a reprieve from the heat. The coast offers more than just a holiday — it provides natural ventilation, a slower pace, and the chance to recharge. Agoda is committed to helping travellers discover these cooling escapes, offering great deals on stays and activities that make every journey enjoyable.' With over 6 million holiday properties, Agoda continues to offer a wide selection of stays designed to help travellers stay cool, from airy, shaded retreats and spacious pools to ocean-facing stays. Visit or download the Agoda mobile app for the best deals to start planning a getaway.
New Straits Times
16-07-2025
- New Straits Times
Agoda data highlights Malaysia's top cool-down destinations
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians are increasingly heading to coastal destinations to escape the rising heat and humidity, according to digital travel platform Agoda. Its latest data shows that Semporna, Kuala Terengganu and Tioman Island are experiencing a surge in travel interest as the country braces for hotter weather through September. Searches for these destinations in May 2025, for stays between June and August, rose by a combined 35 per cent compared to the same period last year. In Semporna, search interest jumped by 38 per cent, Agoda said. The town's breezy seascapes, stilted accommodations and boat rides are popular with those looking for natural ventilation. Underwater exploration at Mabul, Kapalai and the coral walls of Sipadan is drawing visitors looking to escape the heat beneath the sea's surface. Kuala Terengganu saw a 37 per cent rise in search activity. The East Coast city offers cultural charm, beachfront views along Pantai Batu Buruk, and a laid-back escape with traditional markets and shaded cafes by the South China Sea. Tioman Island also saw increased interest, with searches up 27 per cent from the same period last year. With forest-backed resorts and jungle canopy coverage, Tioman provides pockets of calm for heat-weary travellers. "Visitors can enjoy jungle treks, natural freshwater pools such as Asah Waterfall, and shaded swims for a more relaxed retreat," Agoda Malaysia country director Fabian Teja said. The platform has seen a clear shift in travel patterns toward destinations that help Malaysians cope with the heat, he said. "With increased interest in coastal destinations, we are seeing that more travellers may be gravitating toward places that offer a reprieve from the heat. "The coast offers more than just a holiday, it provides natural ventilation, a slower pace, and the chance to recharge," he said in a statement. Fabian added that with six million holiday properties, Agoda continues to offer a wide range of accommodation designed to help travellers stay cool, from shaded rainforest lodges and breezy beachfronts to spacious pools and ocean-facing resorts.
New Straits Times
02-07-2025
- New Straits Times
Kuching is Malaysia's cheapest holiday spot, Surabaya is Asia's most affordable
KUALA LUMPUR: Kuching has reclaimed its title as Malaysia's most affordable holiday spot, according to digital travel platform Agoda. In its recently-released list of budget-friendly summer destinations for the June to August 2025 travel period, Agoda noted that Kuching offers the lowest average nightly room rate in the country at RM227.64, edging out Kuala Terengganu, which held the top spot for April to May this year. "Destinations like Kuching offer travelers rich cultural experiences without a hefty price tag. "Whether it's exploring heritage trails in Kuching, indulging in street food in Hatyai or discovering temples in Tirupati, these places give travelers the chance to explore without stretching their wallets," said Agoda Malaysia and Brunei country director Fabian Teja. Fabian said Agoda's data reveals a wide variety of travel options across Asia this summer. "From Surabaya and Tirupati to Hatyai and Kuching, the diversity of destinations on this list shows how summer travel can be both memorable and budget-conscious," he added. Agoda's Cheapest Summer Destinations ranking is based on the average room rates in the 10 most popular destinations across nine Asian markets, providing a regional snapshot of value-for-money getaways. At the regional level, Surabaya in Indonesia took the crown as Asia's most affordable summer destination, with average room rates of just RM150.33 per night. Tirupati in India (RM158.92) and Hatyai in Thailand (RM167.51) rounded out the top three.
Sinar Daily
09-06-2025
- Sinar Daily
Malaysia ranks among top Asian getaways for European wanderlust
Malaysia has seen a significant 20 per cent surge in interest compared to 2024, the highest increase among all top destinations. By DANIAL HAKIM 06 Jun 2025 05:58pm The most searched locations in Malaysia are Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and the Perhentian Islands, highlighting a growing appetite for both city adventures and island escapades. Photo: Canva DIGITAL travel platform Agoda has recently unveiled its latest 'Europe to Asia Summer Travel Trends', and Malaysia is once again firmly on the map. Ranked as the fourth most searched Asian destination by European travelers for the second consecutive year, Malaysia has seen a significant 20 per cent surge in interest compared to 2024, the highest increase among all top destinations. According to Agoda, the most searched locations in Malaysia are Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and the Perhentian Islands, highlighting a growing appetite for both city adventures and island escapades. Agoda's insights, derived from accommodation searches for the peak European summer months of July and August, show Malaysia's tourism magnetism on the rise, particularly among travelers from France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. Agoda's insights, derived from accommodation searches for the peak European summer months of July and August, show Malaysia's tourism magnetism on the rise—particularly among travelers from France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. Photo: Canva While these five markets continue to lead in search volumes, there's notable momentum coming from France and the Czech Republic, each recording a remarkable 95 per cent year-on-year growth, with Poland close behind at 74 per cent. Meanwhile, Spain overtook the UK in the search rankings this year, reflecting shifting travel interests among Europeans. Malaysia's 20 per cent growth in travel searches leads the pack, but other Asian destinations are catching up. China, benefitting from visa waivers introduced for several European countries, saw a 14 per cent increase, while Sri Lanka experienced a 13 per cent rise. Still, Malaysia's overall performance remains unmatched in growth among the top five destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam, the latter making its debut on the list. Malaysia's overall performance remains unmatched in growth among the top five destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam, the latter making its debut on the list. Photo courtesy of Agoda. 'Malaysia's rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality continue to captivate holidaymakers seeking authentic and diverse experiences. 'With a 20 per cent rise in searches this year, it's clear that more Europeans are eager to explore all that Malaysia has to offer during their summer holidays,'said Agoda country director for Malaysia and Brunei, Fabian Teja. More Like This
Hype Malaysia
05-06-2025
- Hype Malaysia
Malaysia Is 4th Most Popular Asian Destination For European Summer Travellers In 2025
They dig us, fam! As Europe gears up for its summer holidays, digital travel platform Agoda reveals that Malaysia has retained its position as the 4th most searched Asian destination by European travellers for the second consecutive year. Thailand, Indonesia, and Japan take the top three spots, with Vietnam making its debut in the top five. The findings from Agoda's 'Europe to Asia Summer Travel Trends' are based on accommodation searches for travel during July and August, the peak summer months for European travellers. Among the top destinations, Malaysia saw the largest rise in interest, with a 20% increase in searches compared to last year. China, benefiting from visa waivers that have been introduced for several European markets, recorded a 14% rise, while Sri Lanka experienced a 13% uptick. France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands remain the top five European markets generating the most searches for travel to Malaysia, with a slight shift in order as Spain moves ahead of the UK compared to last year. Meanwhile, France (+95%), the Czech Republic (+95%), and Poland (+74%) saw the highest year-on-year growth in searches, reflecting growing interest and Malaysia's rising appeal among European travellers. Top Searched Destinations In Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Perhentian Islands Langkawi Fabian Teja, Country Director for Malaysia and Brunei at Agoda shared, 'Agoda is excited to see Malaysia maintain its strong position as a top summer destination for European travellers. With a 20% rise in searches this year, it's clear that more Europeans are eager to explore all that Malaysia has to offer during their summer holidays.' As travellers plan their next summer getaways, Agoda remains committed to helping them see the world for less. With over five million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities available, Agoda offers seamless travel planning and unbeatable deals. For the best offers, visit or download the Agoda mobile app. What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
