Cashing in on ringgit-rupiah record lows: 4 places in Malaysia and Indonesia for weekend getaways

A teller counts Indonesian bank notes at a bank in Jakarta on Dec 15, 2014. Both the Malaysian ringgit and Indonesian rupiah have reached record lows at about the same time. -- PHOTO: AFP
A teller counts Indonesian bank notes at a bank in Jakarta on Dec 15, 2014. Both the Malaysian ringgit and Indonesian rupiah have reached record lows at about the same time. -- PHOTO: AFP
Malaysian ringgit banknotes in various denominations are arranged for a photograph in Sydney, Australia, on Dec. 11, 2009. Both the Malaysian ringgit and Indonesian rupiah have reached record lows at about the same time. -- PHOTO: BLOOMBERG

SINGAPORE - Both the Malaysian ringgit and Indonesian rupiah have reached record lows at about the same time. On Monday, the Indonesian rupiah tumbled to a 16-year low against the US dollar.

As at 10pm on Dec 15, S$1 could buy you 9,824 rupiah, and S$1 could buy you RM2.66.

The timing for those who live in neighbouring Singapore could not be better. It is the month of holiday cheer, and there is always time for a short getaway to say, Bali, Bintan, Kuala Lumpur or Johor Baru.

Here is a list for you to start your quick planning for a weekend getaway to these popular holiday destinations.

1. Bintan

A beach resort is good for relaxing. What will make you more relaxed is knowing where exactly to eat and where exactly to stay. Things are known to be expensive in Bintan compared to prices in other nearby destination, but the drop in rupiah might change things for you.

Indonesia's idyllic isles of Batam and Bintan

2. Bali

Whether you are in need of a massage to melt your stress away, a romantic spot to watch the sunset, or an adventure in a jungle, Bali is the destination for you. While you are there to do everything else, it is important to keep your tummy happy. Click on the link below to find out what to eat while you are there.

Exotic dishes that you can try in Bali

3. Kuala Lumpur (KL), and other places in Malaysia

The Singapore-KL high-speed rail does not exist yet, but that is no reason for you not to visit our closest neighbour. Here are some places to go, and some food to eat.

Filling your stomach and shopping without burning a hole in your pocket is a combination that must be hard to resist.

Eat, shop, explore at the seven stations along upcoming Singapore-KL high-speed rail

4. Johor Baru (JB)

There are many things you may not know about JB although it is just a short drive away from Singapore. Legoland, cheaper groceries and cheaper petrol aside, did you know that JB is home to hipster cafes that can give those in Singapore a run for their money?

Recommended for increasing your street cred and for good Instagram photos.

Hip Johor Baru cafes to check out

jalmsab@sph.com.sg

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