A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. New Orleans for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kuala Lumpur and New Orleans. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a colorful, historic, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a energetic, fun-filled, and festive city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Kuala Lumpur and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Visitors will generally find more to do in New Orleans than Kuala Lumpur. While Kuala Lumpur is larger than New Orleans, New Orleans has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. New Orleans is more popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Kuala Lumpur is known for its museums, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Kuala Lumpur and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also home to The French Quarter. Kuala Lumpur is popular for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants.

The French Quarter

How is Kuala Lumpur different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New Orleans and Kuala Lumpur. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Kuala Lumpur and New Orleans both to be fantastic destinations.

Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

For foodies, New Orleans is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to New Orleans just to party. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans Better for Music?

New Orleans is a world-class destination for live music. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a live music destination.

New Orleans is known as a music capital around the world. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Kuala Lumpur is not a live music destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

Kuala Lumpur is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular city for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

New Orleans is popular with students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Kuala Lumpur can get you around easily. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is New Orleans Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kuala Lumpur and New Orleans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than in New Orleans. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-3 days is enough time in New Orleans.

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than New Orleans. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kuala Lumpur, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than New Orleans. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kuala Lumpur that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than New Orleans if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Kuala Lumpur is a modern city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In New Orleans, many people enjoy the live music and food that this fun-filled city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Kuala Lumpur is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

New Orleans is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Kuala Lumpur is a diverse city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the fun-filled destination of New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kuala Lumpur. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

New Orleans is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and New Orleans, we can see that New Orleans is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur is in Asia and New Orleans is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in New Orleans would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New Orleans than you might in Kuala Lumpur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive? and Is New Orleans Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of New Orleans. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and New Orleans, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans?

New Orleans has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans in the Summer?

Both New Orleans and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kuala Lumpur is around the same temperature as New Orleans in the summer. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and New Orleans fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in New Orleans. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than New Orleans during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 264 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives around the same amount of rain as New Orleans. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans in the Autumn?

Both New Orleans and Kuala Lumpur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year.

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than New Orleans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in October average around 27°C (81°F), and New Orleans averages at about 69°F (21°C).

In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than New Orleans. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 240 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than New Orleans. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and New Orleans. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and New Orleans fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than New Orleans during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the winter. Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than New Orleans. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or New Orleans in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as New Orleans. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to New Orleans in the spring for the activities around the city.

Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than New Orleans in the spring. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and New Orleans fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than New Orleans. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than New Orleans. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New Orleans and Kuala Lumpur