My husband and two teenagers are considering going to Malyasia for summer 2002. A big reason for our travelling there would be the rain forests and wildlife, but we don't know if it would be worth going all the way over there when we could go to Costa Rica which is much closer to the US. We were also drawn to Malyasia for hopes of the Asian culture over there, but would it be worth the trip. Also, would it be a lot more money to go there?

No idea what the relative costs of the 2 destinations are from where you live, but if you look up some prices for both and then compare them, this should help you decide which would be the most expensive. To get some perspective on Malaysia (because you want rainforests and wildlife, I suggest you concentrate on Borneo btw) have a look at these websites - http://www.infosabah.com.my/sabah/ <BR>http://www.borneoecotours.com/into.asp <BR>http://www.sabahtourist.com.my/ <BR> <BR>

Last year we spent two weeks in Malaysia. It isn't my favorite place in that part of the world. Kuala Lumpur is very dirty and congested - not my cup of tea - Penang island and Melaka were more interesting. Kuching, on Borneo, is certinly close to rain forests. But for Asian culture, Thailand (or Nepal) would be my choice in SE Asia. Bali is a favorite of mine, and most inexpensive right now. It would certainly cost much more to get to Malaysia than Costa Rica - but it would be worth the difference to me, but then I don't care about rain forests of beaches. To each his own.

Follow Elaine's suggestions...question is what you think is worth while? Remember this is your vacation and you shouldn't be feeling this way...if it is the time spent in the air and air fare then go for the closest destination to your next rainforest. Both places will display different wild animals...do a comparative list with your whole family and come up with what you think you really want to see and what other species you will get to see in each country...also check out with the embassies of both countries to see what and where you are allowed to go in both these places....SAFETY huge factor! <BR> <BR>I am from Malaysia and now reside in Canada and have been back with my husband 2x. If you want to experience the Asian culture then go to Malaysia - you will get a mixture of Indian, chinese and muslim flavours. I bet your teens would like it...Do the long trip and spend a little more and you will remember this trip with your teens for the rest of your lives. You can get a fantastic package to malaysia if you check out a whole bunch of websites and ask you travel agent. You should do this with Costa Rica too ...get a bunch of pamphlets on both countries - it will help you to better decide. check out this website (not sure if they have rainforest package) - www.toureast.com. <BR> <BR>check out WWWs Elaine has provided. go to Kuching, Borneo, Sabah or Sarawak for the ASIAN rainforest experience. <BR> <BR>Good luck with the choice.

I have travelled in both Malaysia (Sabah) and Costa Rica. Both are terrific for wildlife spotting. We loved the food in Malaysia and found food to be a lot cheaper and more interesting than in Costa Rica. The cultural differences, amazing caves, snorkelling and diving would make Malaysian Borneo my preferred destination. We were blown away by the hositality of the Malaysian people.

howdy..great that ur travelling to my country...welcome to malaysia.. <BR>i'd love to take u all around during the trip for f.o.c...afterall just would love to get to know u people..exploring some new friends/expriences. <BR>keep in touch with me.. <BR>bye. <BR>