Agoda Reveals That Malaysia’s Favourite Holiday Destination is Singapore

By Dale B  •  in News
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Singles’ Day or 11-11 is coming up soon, which usually means that sales and discounts will be all over the internet. Travel site Agoda will be offering special discounts this year, especially for those who like to travel solo. 

“At Agoda, we have talked a lot about family travel this year, and now with travel numbers in full recovery we’re also seeing more solo travel,” said Cleland Robertson, Country Director for Malaysia and Brunei at Agoda. 

“Going on a solo trip is arguably the best gift you can give yourself. It often means stepping out of our comfort zone, whether it’s exploring new cultures, making new friends, or reconnecting with our sense of adventure and freedom, and in turn rewarding ourselves with perhaps our most lasting life experiences and memories.”

Agoda looked at the most popular destinations for solo travellers checking in on weekends and across a wide range of hotel stays. This is based on Agoda bookings made between mid-April and mid-October 2023, by solo travellers checking in on Fridays and Saturdays.

Around Asia Pacific, the top three consist of Tokyo, Japan in first, Bangkok, Thailand in second, and Seoul, South Korea in third. For Malaysians, the most popular destinations are:

1. Singapore

Singapore is a dream for first-time solo travellers, all thanks to its accessibility, renowned safety, and cultural familiarity; it’s a perfect starting point for Malaysians. Its distance is also a plus, being just a 45-minute flight away. 

Despite its small size, Singapore packs a punch with diverse entertainment for all types of solo adventurers, from theme parks to shopping meccas, and cafe haunts to arts centres. Based on our experiences, Singapore has also been a great place for concerts.

2. Bangkok, Thailand

Renowned as one of the world’s most accessible destinations for solo travellers, it’s no surprise that Bangkok made the list. Thailand’s capital is welcoming to backpackers, especially with the hostel-packed Kao San Road. 

Making new friends has never been so easy, thanks to the friendly locals and the abundance of fellow solo travellers anywhere across the city. During the daytime, there’s lots to explore, like the Grand Palace or the famous Chatuchak weekend market.

3. Hat Yai, Thailand

A great alternative to Bangkok, Hat Yai is a Malaysian favourite thanks to the convenience of the budget-friendly ETS train connection and wide selection of halal food offerings. This charming city is known for its delightful Thai hospitality, mouthwatering local fare, and lush green spaces.

Wander through bustling markets like Kim Yong and Santisuk, indulge in mouthwatering seafood, and don’t miss the lively Khlong Hae Floating Market, a colourful weekend spectacle. Hat Yai’s compact city centre is easily explored on foot, though tuk-tuks are readily available. 

To celebrate Singles’ Day, Agoda offers 11-11 promotions that can be found in the Agoda app or through the official website.

Photo credit: Agoda.com