5 reasons to love Kuala lumpur
Delicious food, shopping galore and not too far away – put Malaysia’s capital on the radar for your next holiday!
1 The diversity
Kuala Lumpur’s diverse tourist sights reflect Malaysia’s heavily multicultural makeup. The Batu Caves are a must-see attraction. It’s an impressive limestone hill with a series of caves and a Hindu temple set in it – climb the steps, tour the site and, if you’re game, feed the monkeys. Also worth a squiz are the National and Federal Territory mosques, as well as Thean Hou, an ornate Chinese temple. For something modern, look to the skyline and head to the iconic Petronas Towers. At 88 floors, they were the world’s tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004, and remain the tallest twin buildings. They provide a jaw-dropping view from the 86th floor.
2 The flavours
Ask anyone what to do in KL and the reply is always the same – eat! With its mix of Malays, Chinese and Indians, Kuala Lumpur’s food is just as diverse as its people. Whether you prefer relaxed hawker stands, cute coffee shops or five-star dining, there are ridiculously tasty meals wherever you turn. Add to your culinary bingo: roti canai (Indian flatbread), chicken rice (steamed chicken with jasmine rice) and nasi lemak (the national dish of rice cooked in coconut milk, served with curry, anchovies, peanuts and chilli paste).
3 The shopping
Hot and humid, Kuala Lumpur loves a mall. For those looking to flex their shopping muscle, head to Suria KLCC, next door to the Petronas Towers, for a mix of high-end (Louis Vuitton, Chanel) and chain favourites (Uniqlo, Zara). For cheap electronics, make a beeline to Plaza Low Yat. Cosmetics are also cheaper in KL, but do your research before you go as their product ranges differ slightly to those in Oz.
4 The arts & crafts
Malaysia has a strong tradition of arts and crafts, from pewterware to wood carvings, pottery, basket weaving and batik – a fabric where the pattern is drawn with wax, then dyed. To have a go at making your own to take home, head to the socially conscious Batik Boutique (thebatikboutique.com), which empowers lowincome women through fair trading. As well as the workshops, it sells its own stylish range, from napkins and bags to pillowcases and scarves.
5 The good value
If you want a trip overseas minus the big credit card bill, Malaysia is the answer. The Aussie dollar goes far – flights and accommodation are reasonable, Ubers are clean and cheap, and the food is fresh, delicious and will give you change from a tenner. Travelling within the country is affordable and easy too, so a cheeky jaunt to the beautiful, aquamarine beaches of Rendang, the Perhentian Islands and Langkawi (which are far less crowded than Thailand’s) should certainly be on your agenda.