I am in my late 20s F and I booked my flights arriving in Bangkok and departing in Kuala Lumpur, a total of 6 weeks in August. I did a one week solo trip in Taipei a couple of years ago and I absolutely loved it!
I would like to spend a lot of time in beaches relaxing, eating good food and exploring each place I visit. I am not planning on partying or going clubs but I am down to have a drink at a nice bar. I am planning on staying in private rooms for a peace of mind but still trying to be on a budget.
I have a rough itinerary and would love any inputs or suggestions! I am flexible with the timings too as I haven't booked any domestic flights/bus transfer and accommodations (except for Perhentian Island due to popularity at that time).
Bangkok 5 nights - including Ayutthaya
Khao Sok 3 nights - any experience with booking package tours?
Koh Phangan 7 nights - longer as I might do a yoga retreat
Koh Tao 5 nights - I am not planning to do any diving, is it still worth it to stay that long?
Koh Samui 4 nights - there is an option to visit an elephant sanctuary but is this ethical?
Penang 4 nights - 1 day of travel from Koh Samui to Penang
Ipoh 2 nights - 1 extra night for overnight bus to Perhentian Island
Perhentian Island 3 nights - is this enough days? Also, I booked a bungalow in a more secluded place but the accommodation is nicer. I am tempted to book another accommodation in a more crowded place for safety but the accommodation is worst (no AC and doesn't look very nice). Is it worth it for the same price point?
Malacca 2 nights
Kuala Lumpur 3 nights
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Questions
Is it better to do shopping in Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur?
For the Gulf of Thailand Islands, has anyone had experience with cycling around (either with a regular bike or e-bike)? I am used to cycling as it is my mode of transport but I am terrified of hiring a scooter as many people seem to be getting into accidents.
I also want some advice on how long I am staying in each of the Gulf of Thailand Islands. Should I add/remove days? Which Island is best? I am planning on staying in the non-party side of the Islands.
Also is my Malaysia leg too hectic? Is it worth staying in Ipoh or Malacca? Should I increase my days in Kuala Lumpur or Perhentian Island?
For all the places mentioned, has anyone done a tour which absolutely stood out to them? If so, which one?
Any other suggestions for places to go? I understand it is monsoon season in quite a lot of places hence it is not included in the plan. I would ideally want to avoid the rain as much as possible. Any experiences for travelling to these places in August time?