Kuching's hotel rates one of the most affordable in Asia, according to Agoda

KUCHING: Travellers in Malaysia can enjoy the most competitive hotel room rates here in April and May, making the state capital one of Asia's tourist destinations with the cheapest accommodation on average, says Agoda.

The digital travel platform said Kuching offered an average room rate of RM230 during these two months, lower than last year's average of RM282.

"In Malaysia, Kuching continues to hold the crown as the most affordable tourist destination," it said in a statement on Monday (April 1).

According to Agoda, Kuching ranked fourth among destinations with the cheapest average accommodation rates in eight Asian markets after Udon Thani in Thailand, Surabaya (Indonesia) and Hue (Vietnam).

Iloilo in the Philippines, Bengaluru (India), Narita (Japan) and Kaohsiung (Taiwan) rounded off the list.

The average room rates for April and May were calculated based on Agoda's booking data from March 1 to 18.

Agoda Southeast Asia associate vice-president Enric Casals said people across Asia were looking forward to upcoming public holidays like Songkran (Thai New Year), Hari Raya and Golden Week in Japan in April and May.

"It is Agoda's ongoing mission to help travellers see the world for less and what better way to do that than by sharing the latest cheapest destinations ranking just in time for this popular travel time," he said in the statement.

Agoda also said Kuching, with its unique vibrancy and natural beauty, had a lot to offer visitors.

It listed the Main Bazaar, Carpenter Street and Sunday market as top picks to discover local handicrafts, while nature enthusiasts could explore the nearby Bako National Park for its rainforest, wildlife and beaches.