Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Selamat Datang (Welcome) Kuala Lumpur. November 2013

The amazing capital city of Malaysia is home to a diverse mix of Asian culture, turning into a melting pot of cultures, religions and civilizations that have come and gone throughout history. Kuala Lumpur is surely one of those cities that may never bore you on your travels due to the multicultural feels with the past and present intertwining toward a prosperous future.

How to Get There

• By Plane. There are a number of cheap flights available flying to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) from almost any point in Asia via Tiger Airways, AirAsia or Cebu Pacific. From the airport it usually takes almost another 2 hours to reach the city proper, which is probably longer than your flight!

• By Land. If you have a lot of time to spare, and are looking for a more exciting getaway towards the city, you may opt for a bus trip from Thailand or a train from Singapore. A train ride from Singapore, based on experience, takes about 8 hours travel.

Where to Stay

• The Golden Triangle. Located within the Petronas Twin Towers complex, this is one ideal place to stay if money is not a worry and luxury is what you'd be after. The 5-star hotels within the triangle's radius may not be as expensive as in other big cities, but it could be worth the view when the twin towers are within sight.

• Bukit Bintang Area. Changkat Bukit Bintang is the hub for first timers in KL, tourists and backpackers alike, with the streets lined up with bars, restaurants and a colorful nightlife. Hotels here may be budget-friendly, so shopping around to stay the night can be good for you.

What to Do

Never leave Kuala Lumpur without a worm's eye view of the Twin Towers.

• See the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Named after the Head Quarters for Malaysia's national oil company, the towers are impossible not to be noticed by tourists going to Kuala Lumpur. The world's tallest twin towers held the top spot for at least six years, as they signify the quick success and economic growth of the Malaysian capital. If you're looking for the only "must-see" in KL, this is the one right here. Recommended time for viewing is at night where the towers glow so bright over the city.

• Experience Kuala Lumpur on top of KL Tower. Just nearby the twin towers, Menara Kuala Lumpur stands as one of the world's tallest communication towers at 421 meters. Going up the tower has a minimal admission fee, and the 360-degree view around Malaysia on the observation deck is something that you would want to see. Move one floor up and you can feast on delicious food and experience the floor moving once in a while as you make a full revolution while chewing on your food.

• Enter the Batu Caves. Take a bus ride to one of the most important Hindu sites in Asia. Prior to entry, you will notice the watch guard of the caves, the Hindu God Lord Murugan whom this sacred place is dedicated to. A journey inside the caves will take 272 steps to the top, and it is highly suggested that you rest your legs on your hour-long journey there.

• Pick your favorite chocolate. Malaysia is known to be one of the leading producers of chocolate in the world. Beryl's Chocolate Kingdom turns all your chocolate fantasies into reality with a wide variety of chocolates ranging from differences in taste to form. Make sure to try the spicy variation; it is something sweet with a fiery feel in the mouth!

• Shop at the Central Market. Built in 1888 by the British during their rule of Malaya at the time, the market has become a beacon for shopping for goods and products that are always available for both locals and tourists. Though only 2 floors in height, the sections are well sorted by Chinese, Malay and Indian origins and a food court that offers a mix of food from every Asian region, a typical setting that depicts the colorful nature of Kuala Lumpur.

• Go on foot around the city. Not that the city has been experiencing traffic especially during work days, but there really is no better way to experience Kuala Lumpur than your pair of feet. What makes this city tour interesting is because of the change of scenery on almost every block or corner you turn to! A lot of cultures are blended into the capital - expect to walk through a Chinese tea shop, a store that sells Bollywood movies, Catholic artifacts and paintings - that leaves you wondering where you really are.

Malaysia Truly Asia. Chinatown

Where to Go Next

• Singapore. Arguably the world's most expensive city, Singapore is a great place that blends western modernization and Asian novelty. Whether by plane or by land, you are never out of options on this next travel destination if you so choose.

• Thailand. Move up the border and experience a rich Asian tradition coupled with busy streets occupied by tourists and locals and a lively atmosphere that makes a vacation truly worthwhile. 

• Indonesia. The world's largest archipelago happens to share borders with Malaysia, and getting across may be as easy as you could expect. Create an adventure by walking through big cities or swimming across beautiful beaches.