Quick guide to…Kuala Lumpur
Truly Asia !
There’s something about Kuala Lumpur that seems to make visitors giddy. Maybe it’s the dizzying heights of the Petronas towers, the flavours and aromas of Asian fusion foods, or the incredible cultural diversity of peoples – whatever the cause, a cheap flight to Kuala Lumpur is worth every penny, as it’s an experience you’ll never forget. As the tourist board slogan goes, it’s “Malaysia…truly Asia”.
What to see
The twin towers, until recently the tallest buildings in the world, are not to be missed. For an equally great view, pay a small fee and check out the KL tower.Close to the heart of old colonial Kuala Lumpur you’ll find the beautiful Masjid Jamek, the oldest mosque in the city, the Royal Palace, and Sri Mahamariaman hindu temple.
For a real taste of the colonial days, visit the Royal Selangor Club, a Tudor-style building complete with cricket lawns where British civil servants relaxed in the late 1800s.
For natural wonders, check out Kuala Lumpur car hire and take a drive out to the famous Bird Park – the largest free-flight aviary in the world – or the beautiful Butterfly Park nearby.
Where to shop and eat
KL is a shopper’s paradise, with more vast mega-malls and flea markets that you can shake a ringgit at. The Golden Triangle is one of the busiest shopping districts; check out Bukit Bintang.
Petaling Street is a popular market for everything from Chinese herbs to fake brand-name labels (bargain hard), and the Central Market at Jalan Hang Kasturi is great for handcrafts and souvenirs.
If you’re feeling peckish, chow down in Chinatown, where foodstalls overflow with exotic fruits and delicious dishes from China, India and beyond.
Which Kuala Lumpur Hotel?
Great accommodation options in KL include the award-winning Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel, the luxurious Doubletree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur, or pamper yourself after a hard day’s sightseeing at the Impiana KLCC Hotel and Spa.
