Travel Guide
New Train Will Connect 2 Of Asia’s Most Astounding Cities This Year
May
There’s no denying Asia is one of the world’s most astounding continents.
That’s why even the most seasoned travelers come back again and again, immersing themselves in magnetizing culture and indulging in cheap street food that just can’t be replicated back home.
Now, travelers will have a chance to double-dip in a pair of Asia’s most captivating cities, as it’s been confirmed that this dynamic duo will be directly connected again, rather than having those annoying layovers we all dread.
While Tokyo was just revealed (to no surprise) as Asia’s most sought-after summer destination, that doesn’t mean we’re sleeping on Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, does it?
Surely not.
As perhaps the most exciting train route in Asia this year, these 2 insanely affordable and culturally mesmerizing metropolises will be easily reachable by year’s end with TimeOut’s announcement that both Malaysia’s Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) are working in tandem to bring this dream route back to reality.
What We Know About The New Kuala Lumpur – Bangkok Rail Route
If you’re looking for ticket prices, you’ll be left guessing, as neither side of the tracks has issued promotional fares yet.
But if we were to make our best guess, you won’t be breaking the bank scoring a comfortable seat.
In fact, we’ve covered free trains (yes, FREE) and cup-of-coffee fares departing from Bangkok, so we have no reason to suspect anything different except for the fact you’ll be crossing international borders.
Since both destinations are digital nomad havens with affordable prices, it’s safe to assume bargain bin rates once tickets are released.
But then again, my Nana once told me those who assume make an 🫏 out of “u” and “me”, so time will tell…
TimeOut, the real experts on the matter (sorry, Nana), revealed rumors of extending the line from Su-ngai Kolok on the Thai side by connecting a pair of Malaysian destinations, Rantau Panjang and Pasir Mas.
The potential snag is that the current tracks are way past their prime, and a big question mark is whether an overhaul is too big of a project for a quick turnaround.
Most notably, without being given an exact blue-ribbon date, the 2 countries have been given 3 months to sort things out, but it’s promised to come to fruition by the end of 2025.
Why Visit Kuala Lumpur?
Putting the icons of Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Bali aside, you might be surprised to learn that Kuala Lumpur is actually one of Asia’s most rapidly growing cities.
Rising from the shadow of its ritzy neighbor (Singapore), this safe, diverse, and English-speaking nation is finally getting its due and as more people discover its wonders, it’s surely to continue its prominent ascension.
You’ll be equally impressed by Malaysia’s skyline as you are with Singapore’s world-renowned airport, except here you won’t have to sell a kidney on Craigslist to splurge on luxury.
Within the towering cityscape are dozens of luxe hotels at unbelievable prices. Don’t believe me?
For sample size, you can book 4-star Perdana Kuala Lumpur City Centre for $42 on Agoda this summer.
Since you’ll be saving boatloads of money here, you’ll have more opportunities to enjoy popular attractions like the bucket-list-worthy Batu Caves.
Why Visit Bangkok?
Thailand’s vibrant capital never ceases to amaze all types of travelers. The city may be a little rough around the edges (i.e. The Hangover Part II) but it’s truly one of the world’s most wondrous cities with astonishing temples, buzzing night markets, riverside vendors, and some of the best cuisine your tastebuds could ever experience.
While the nightlife scene is subjective with a mix of all-night ragers to the world’s strangest ping-pong games, there’s never a dull moment, no matter the time of day.
Unlike Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok is not largely fluent in English, but there’s enough of an expat community and noticeable tourists to ensure you won’t feel like a crowd standout.
Like Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok is remarkably cultural and affordable. When I visited, I preferred a $25 high-rise Airbnb, but you can easily score posh hotels here, too.
For example, 4-star Mercure Bangkok Makkasan is only $49 this summer when booking directly through the hotel.
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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
