{"id":18666,"date":"2020-12-30T19:00:00","date_gmt":"2020-12-30T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.comparehero.my\/blog\/uncategorized\/vacation-during-covid-19.html"},"modified":"2026-03-26T16:02:03","modified_gmt":"2026-03-26T08:02:03","slug":"vacation-during-covid-19","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.comparehero.my\/blog\/travel\/vacation-during-covid-19.html","title":{"rendered":"Vacation During COVID-19: Should You Take Advantage Of These Jaw-Dropping Local Hotel Deals Now?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

At this time last year, Malaysians were clearing their annual leave and enjoying well-earned vacations. Today, most of us remain at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with the reopening of interstate travel on December 7, some Malaysians have taken advantage of the cheaper hotel rates to enjoy a local getaway. Should you join them and snag one of the best hotel deals ever?<\/strong><\/p>\n

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In a recent article<\/a> by The Straits Times, the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) revealed that hotel bookings have risen over the Christmas and New Year period. This organisation represents more than 900 hotels nationwide.<\/p>\n

The same article also highlighted that many hotels are offering promotions \u2013 with discounts of up to 70%, as well as optimistic reports about high occupancy rates at luxury hotels such as The Datai Langkawi resort and The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.<\/p>\n

Even some airlines have increased the number of daily flights around Peninsular Malaysia. According to Malay Mail<\/a>, AirAsia has recorded a surge in domestic flight bookings after the reopening of interstate travel. <\/p>\n

Based on these updates, it seems like more Malaysians have started travelling again despite the sizeable number of COVID-19 cases recorded daily.<\/p>\n

Taking a short, budget-friendly vacation (or staycation)<\/h2>\n

After a year filled with pandemic-related economic uncertainties and rising unemployment<\/a>, we could all use a breather. Wouldn\u2019t it be nice if we can get away from it all and relax at a sunny beach or lush national park? <\/p>\n

It doesn\u2019t have to be a long, expensive holiday. We just need a short, affordable vacation (or staycation) to recharge our batteries.<\/p>\n

Speaking of affordability, many hotels and resorts are currently offering promotions and discounts in an effort to increase their occupancy rates.<\/p>\n

So how \u201cjaw-dropping\u201d are these hotel deals? Are they enticing enough to make us consider taking a trip in the current climate?<\/p>\n

Hotel prices have gone down<\/h2>\n

Search online for local hotel room bargains and you will be pleasantly surprised. Even five-star hotels are offering discounted rooms that go beyond 70% of the regular price!<\/p>\n

Best of all, these places offer amenities<\/a> such as body thermometers, hand sanitisers and free face masks. <\/p>\n

1. G Hotel Gurney, Penang<\/h3>\n

When CompareHero logged on to online travel platform Agoda<\/a> on December 30, we found a 72% discount deal<\/strong> for the five-star G Hotel Gurney in Penang. <\/p>\n

With the trip duration set from December 31, 2020 to January 3, 2021<\/strong> for two adults<\/strong>, Agoda members can book a room at the hotel for as low as RM509 per night<\/strong>, while non-members will have to fork out at least RM566. <\/p>\n

This is a huge price drop from the hotel\u2019s standard price of at least RM2,000 per night. So even for last-minute bookings like this, you can expect a significant discount on room rates.<\/p>\n

(Please take note that these deals will most likely change daily and vary according to the duration of your stay.)<\/em><\/p>\n

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Agoda users were able to enjoy a 72% discount for G Hotel Gurney rooms during its promotion on December 30. (Image source: Agoda)<\/em><\/p>\n

What else is jaw-dropping over there besides the hotel room price?<\/strong> In addition to Penang\u2019s famous street food eateries, you can enjoy a serene escapade<\/a> at the Batu Ferringhi beach, Penang National Park and Penang Hill. <\/p>\n

2. Symphony Suite, Cameron Highlands<\/h3>\n

Why stay at a hotel room when you can book an entire apartment instead? Agoda was offering a 65% discount<\/strong> for a Symphony Suite @ Cameron Highlands apartment during its December 30 promotion.<\/p>\n

With the trip duration set from December 31, 2020 to January 3, 2021<\/strong>, a family of two adults and two kids<\/strong> can enjoy a holiday here for as low as RM439 per night<\/strong>, instead of paying the regular price of RM1,239 per night.<\/p>\n

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Symphony Suite @ Cameron Highlands offers a family holiday for as low as RM439 a night. (Image source: Agoda)<\/em><\/p>\n

What else is jaw-dropping over there besides the price?<\/strong> Amid the cool air, you will find joy and tranquility<\/a> at the tea plantations, strawberry farms and forested hills of Cameron Highlands.<\/p>\n

3. The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa<\/h3>\n

The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa is currently offering a two-night stay<\/a> at its Superior Room for RM960<\/strong>. This package, which is valid until April 30, 2021<\/strong>, also comes with a complimentary dinner for two guests and two 50% discount vouchers at the Heavenly Spa By Westin.<\/p>\n

After braving through the ups and downs of 2020 together, you can start the new year by treating your loved one to a romantic island getaway here. This five-star resort, located on the sandy beaches of Langkawi, has everything from chic, comfortable rooms to luxurious amenities. <\/p>\n

One of its main attractions is the Heavenly Spa By Westin. If you are looking to relax and de-stress amid tranquil surroundings, this beachside spa is worth checking out. Pamper yourself with therapeutic anti-aging facials, body exfoliations, foot and bathing rituals, as well as Malay, Ayurveda, Turkish, Swedish and Indonesian massages. <\/p>\n

With the discount vouchers that are included in your package, you can enjoy all these luxurious pampering at half price. <\/p>\n

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Enjoy a romantic two-night stay with your special someone at The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa for RM960. (Image source: The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa)<\/em><\/p>\n

What else is jaw-dropping over there besides the hotel room price?<\/strong> Langkawi is a duty-free<\/a> shopping paradise! You will be able to purchase premium chocolates, liquor, tobacco and perfumes at lower prices. There are also other attractions<\/a> in Langkawi such as the Pulau Payar Marine Park and Underwater World.<\/p>\n

These are just some of the amazing hotel deals that are available now. For more holiday options, you can continue your search online at Agoda and other digital travel platforms like Expedia and Traveloka, as well as hotel websites.<\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> 5 Best Credit Cards For Travel Insurance<\/a><\/p>\n

How to prepare for your trip<\/h2>\n

If you have decided to travel, clothes are not the only items that you will be packing. In the new normal, it is important to take precautionary measures to ensure your safety. According to the guidelines<\/a> set by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you should:<\/p>\n