Relax in Kuala Lumpur
The beautiful capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur should be on every ones must visit list for Relax Destinations. On the outskirts of the 1500-hectare Bukit Lagong nature reserve, this beautiful city rises out from the rainforest like it has naturally grown there. With the Titiwangsa Mountains close to the East of the city, whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or an enthusiastic shopper, there is something for everyone here.
Weather
The constant temperatures, between 32-35 degrees, makes Kuala Lumpur a great place to visit any time of the year, however take an umbrella as you will be close to the rainforest and the weather can turn from beautifully warm, sunny and humid to a torrential downpour with very little warning. Visitors can be surprised by the often daily downpour, but rest assured, it will often last only an hour before returning to an even warmer and humid state.
Food and Drink
Take the opportunity of these showers to dive into one of Kuala Lumper’s fantastic restaurants perhaps, or grab a bit of shopping in one of the huge shopping centres here. Food in Kuala Lumpur is varied and cheap, and you will be spoilt for choice. With an array of street food offering everything from a national dish of Nasi Lemak to barbecued chicken wings, every palette is catered for and you can be as adventurous as you wish.
In the more tourist areas, you can even get yourself an English breakfast, or spend some time in a whisky bar. There are plenty of fantastic restaurants throughout the area, offering real Malaysian delights, or more western alternatives. Sea food is popular here, beautifully marinated with delicious spices, pastes and sauces, served with rice or noodles it is easy to eat happy in Kuala Lumpur.
If you want to combine sightseeing, great views and decent food, the Atmosphere 360 revolving restaurant offers a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur from a height of 282 metres, unfortunately the food will not be the highlight here, but with those views – who cares really!
Shopping
There is a vast array of shopping options here too, with multiple street markets throughout the city, a bargain or two is easy to come by. Combine street markets with a visit to Chinatowns central market and give your haggling skills a go for an even better price. Mix shopping and street food for a real multi-sensory experience.
The shopping malls are impressive here and there are more than eight malls in the centre of Kuala Lumpur, with one even boasting its own huge indoor rollercoaster and theme park. Berjaya Times Square is a must visit shopping centre, more street market in design, hours can be spent wondering around the brightly colour stalls and entertaining the children on the rides.
Alternatively, Suria KLCC is conveniently located at the bottom of the Patronus Towers, a more upscale store than Berjaya, shopping can be combined with a trip up to the Patronus famous Sky Bridge, or, if the kids are bored with shopping, there is a great aquarium and science centre here also. Ensure you come back to the area at night however, as the 452metre tall towers are an iconic sight when lit up.
Fancy some Fresh Air?
It’s not just the city which calls to be explored. Taxis are cheap here and it’s a short drive to the rainforest. Here, spider monkeys are abundant and brave, getting close hoping for a tidbit. Lizards scurry out the way as you find a path through the dense trees. Beautiful streams, waterfalls and calm areas to swim are abundant, with the small pools teaming with little fish that like to nibble the dead skin off your feet – if you like that sort of thing. There are trails and hiking opportunities galore out here, but remember it will likely rain at some point. Guided tours are available if you’re a bit navigationally-challenged and concerned about getting lost, alternatively ask a local to point you in the right direction, English is spoken widely here as a second language with the majority of people having at least a basic understanding.
Other Attractions
There are many other attractions available. The Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in KL is a colourful architectural wonder. Alternatively, visit the 20 acre Kuala Lumpur bird park, one of the largest public aviaries in the world. The zoo is also a great afternoon out – particularly for small people, along with the Sunway Lagoon theme park. Perdana Botanical Gardens and the Batu caves are high up on the recommended places to visit.
KL Culture
Kuala Lumpur is a culturally diverse, and culturally accepting place, made up of many different cultures and ethnicities. The National Museum is a great place to learn more about how Kuala Lumpur became so varied in its culture and religions. The people are welcome, friendly and incredibly generous to the unprepared tourist. One family insisted we took their umbrella when we were caught by an unexpected torrential downpour on one memorable visit.
Whether visiting alone, with friends or as a family, there is something for everyone here and many days can be spent exploring the area. The perfect stopover on your way to other destinations, or a weeks city break, there is plenty to do to ensure your trip passes in a whirl of fantastic experiences and unforgettable memories.
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