Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Airport: Kuala Lumpur Airport
Served by: Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Royal Jordanian
City Statistics
Overview
Above all this rises one of the most distinctive skylines in Asia, dominated by the twin turrets of the Petronas Towers. Not for nothing do the tourist brochures describe this as 'truly Asia'. The streets form a living map of the cultures and races who gathered here in colonial times when KL was a booming mining outpost. Turn one corner and you could be in Shanghai or Kowloon. Turn the next, and find yourself transported to steamy south India. One moment, you might be standing in a forest of shimmering skyscrapers, the next, you might find yourself surrounded by traditional tin-roofed Malay houses. The diverse cultures who share this fast-expanding metropolis live together in remarkable harmony. Festivals transcend religious boundaries and an air of tolerance and mutual respect pervades. This 'stronger together' approach has allowed KL to achieve great things. Aided by oil wealth, the city has transformed itself from jungle outpost to futuristic cyber-city in just a few short decades. The rapid pace of change is most apparent in the central business district, where pockets of jungle and colonial bungalows still stand amongst the glass and steel towers. However, every year brings another skyscraper, another gleaming shopping centre, and the old parts of the city are vanishing fast as the city marches towards the future. The pockets of old KL that remain in Chinatown, Little India, Brickfields and Chow Kit are still the most atmospheric parts of the city. For travellers, KL is first and foremost a place to shop and to eat. The fusion of flavours created by KL's fusion of cultures has created one of the most dynamic dining scenes in Asia. Take your pick from elegant fine-dining restaurants with starched white tablecloths or boisterous street markets where the real food culture of KL plays out in the open air. Start the day with a south Indian dosa (rice-flour pancake), then lunch on Chinese noodles and finish the day with a rich Malay curry, infused with lemongrass. Like neighbouring Singapore, KL has been cultivated as a shopping stopover for travellers on long-haul routes across Asia. Enormous shopping malls sprout from every corner in the central Golden Triangle area, overflowing with fashionable global brands. But this commercial outlook is underpinned by a spiritual side that makes KL feel reassuringly grounded. Locals step from teahouse to temple and mall to mosque without skipping a beat. Sights range from colonial architecture to thrilling theme parks and one of the world's most famous motor racing circuits at Sepang. Track KL's meteoric rise from the jungle in the city's museums, or head into the jungle for real in the rainforest reserves that sprawl beyond the city limits. Whatever you choose to do, expect a warm welcome from locals, and a welcome absence of the hassles that mar travel in many Asian capitals.
Getting There By Air
From London - 13 hours; New York - 20 hours 15 minutes; Los Angeles - 17 hours 45 minutes; Toronto - 21 hours 45 minutes; Sydney - 8 hours.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
Tel: (03) 8776 2000.
Web: www.klia.com.my
The airport is situated 55km (34 miles) south of Kuala Lumpur.
Airport facilities:
There's a bank, several bureaux de change, ATMs and a post office. Wi-Fi is now also available throughout the airport free-of-charge. In addition, there are also Internet kiosks in several locations. Phones can be found in both terminals.
Getting Around
Hotels
Kuala Lumpur offers something for every budget. Compared to Europe or the US, prices for mid and top-range accommodation in particular are very reasonable. Most of the top-end hotels are, naturally enough, dotted around the KLCC and the central business district, while the budget and mid-range places are clustered together in Chinatown and around Jalan Bukit Bingtang.
The Kuala Lumpur hotels below have been grouped into three pricing categories:
Luxury (over RM600)
Moderate (RM350 to RM600)
Cheap (up to RM350)
These prices are the starting prices for a standard double room per night and include sales tax but not service charge. Breakfast is not included, unless otherwise specified. A sales tax of 5% and a service charge at 10% are added to the bill in most hotels in Kuala Lumpur. Additional tips are not necessary, although it is perfectly acceptable to tip the porter at more expensive hotels.
Cheap
Tune Hotel
Taking the budget airline concept and applying it to hotel rooms, the brightly-coloured Tune hotel offers rooms that get cheaper and cheaper the further ahead you book. The tidy, compact singles, doubles and twins are good value, but there's a surcharge for air-con, internet access and other extras. The hotel is set away from the main tourist drag, a short stroll from the Medan Tuanku Monorail station.
316 Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, 50100
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 7962 5888.
Web: www.tunehotels.com
Cititel Express
Modelled loosely on European budget hotels, this recently opened property is in the heart of 'Little India', but only a short stroll from the Chow Kit monorail station. Rates are good for the facilities, and there's a terrace restaurant serving Asian and Western-style food. One of the best cheap hotels in Kuala Lumpur.
449 Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, 50100
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2691 9833.
Web: www.cititelexpress.com/KL
Radius International
Located in the most lively part of the Golden Triangle, this business-like hotel offers tastefully-decorated rooms in neutral colours for surprisingly inexpensive rates. Each of the 458 rooms has a TV, telephone, mini-bar and en-suite bathroom, and the hotel has a travel service, an outdoor swimming pool, a health club and a business centre.
51A Changkat Bukit Bintang, 50200
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2715 3888.
Web: www.radius-international.com
Hotel Istana
Soaring above the central business district, this modern glass and steel tower is a top choice for those who must be in the thick of things. All the attractions of the Golden Triangle are on the doorstep, and the hotel's 515 rooms and suites are tasteful and comfortable, with grand views and spacious bathrooms with deep bathtubs.
73 Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2141 9988.
Web: www.hotelistana.com.my
Mandarin Oriental
The benchmark for luxury in Kuala Lumpur, the Mandarin Oriental has a spectacular location, right in the heart of the business district, overlooking the green expanse of the KLCC Park. Inside are 643 deluxe rooms, including 41 suites and 51 exclusive apartments decked out with Asian furniture and artworks. In-room features include high-speed internet access, high-grade entertainment systems and bathrooms full of polished stone.
PO Box 10905
KLCC, Jalan Pinang
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2380 8888.
Web: www.mandarin-oriental.com/kualalumpur
Traders Hotel
Firmly targeting the business traveller, the Traders Hotel offers the kind of location associated with the top Kuala Lumpur hotels, but with prices that are easier on the pocket. Rooms are modern, smartly decorated and comfortable and service is very friendly and efficient. A bonus feature is the rooftop Sky Bar, with epic night-time views towards the Twin Towers.
KLCC, off Jalan Kia Peng
Kuala Lumpur
50088
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2332 9888.
Web: www.shangri-la.com/kualalumpur/traders
MiCasa All Suite Hotels
All the rooms at this comfortable modern hotel are suites, but the prices are more like what you'd expect for en-suite doubles. There's a palm-shaded pool, an award-winning fine dining restaurant, and 242 one-, two- and three-bedroom suites to choose from. It's situated in the heart of the diplomatic quarter, about 2km (1.2 miles) from KLCC, adjacent to Putra station.
368B Jalan Tun Razak, 50400
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2179 8000.
Web: www.micasahotel.com
Hotel Capitol
Regular promotions and online booking deals bring down prices at this tidy tower hotel in the thick of things in the Golden Triangle. The rooms are neat and functional rather than opulent but staff are friendly and the location is excellent. Guests can use the pool at the nearby Federal Hotel and the Jalan Bukit Bingtang shopping strip is right on the doorstep.
Jalan Bulan, Jalan Bukit Bingtang
Kuala Lumpur
55100
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2143 7000.
Web: www.hotelcapitol-kualalumpur.com
Caracosa Seri Negara Hotel
Set in the former bungalow of the colonial administrator of Kuala Lumpur, Caracosa Seri Negara wins points for peace and privacy. Set in sprawling grounds above the Lake Gardens, this is a place to escape the crowds and enjoy comfort and superior service. Famous former guests include the Queen and Prince Philip, who stayed here in 1989 and again in 1998. The best rooms have their own private terraces.
Taman Tasik Perdana, Persiaran Mahameru, 50480
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2295 0888.
Web: www.shr.my
Business Etiquette
Despite the high humidity levels, suit and tie is the norm for men and smart dress for women, although concessions are usually made for visiting foreign businesspeople unused to the tropical conditions. English is the main business language in Kuala Lumpur, with most businesspeople (at all levels and in companies of all sizes) at least competent in English. Any attempts to use a few Bahasa Malaysian conversational words are greatly appreciated and can break the ice quickly.
One key aspect to remember is that it is considered inappropriate to use the left hand for handshakes or handing over documents, as this is traditionally used for cleaning after toilet use. Business cards are also an essential prerequisite to any business meeting, no matter how informal, and should be handed over with both hands.
Malaysians are quite conservative when it comes to business and clients are not often invited home. As Malaysia is a Muslim country, many local businessmen and women will not drink alcohol during lunch or dinner meetings. However, it is acceptable for non-Muslims to do so, in moderation. It is also important for visitors to be careful when choosing gifts, as obvious things like spirit or wine are a definite non-starter and less obvious gifts like watches, associated with death by many ethnic Chinese, might also offend.
Sightseeing
The heart of Kuala Lumpur is around Datran Merdeka (Independence Square) and this open space makes a good starting point for a city tour. The Royal Selangor Club sits on the square and is an excellent example of colonial architecture, while the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (the seat of the high and supreme courts) is an intriguing mix of Victorian and Moorish architecture.
Elsewhere around the city, in striking contrast to the British-built architecture, are the stunning Masjid Negara (National Mosque) and Masjid Jamek (Friday Mosque). The ornate Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is something of a hybrid of the two, looking more like a dreamy Moorish palace than a transport hub. These days, it no longer functions as an important railway station, giving it a lost, old world feel that definitely merits a visit.
Those looking to get an insight into the layout of the city should ascend to either the observation level of the Petronas Towers or the viewing platform at the Menara Observation Tower. The latter is a better option as it gives 360-degree views that include the Petronas Towers from its hilltop position. Menara also has a restaurant, a cafe and a small museum.
KL's harmonious ethnic diversity is one of its greatest charms and a visit to the divergent areas of the city is essential. Chinatown, with its traditional shops and lively night market, Little India and the art deco Central Market, which showcases cultural displays and Malaysian arts and crafts, all shed light on their respective communities.
The main attractions in the Golden Triangle business, hotel and shopping district are the towering Petronas Towers themselves, the KLCC Park, the fashionable and vibrant Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail.
An unlikely newcomer on the tourist route is the western suburb of Bangsar Baru. Located a short journey from Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station, the pavement cafes of Bangsar are popular with visitors and locals alike and are increasingly becoming the place to see and be seen.
Further out from the city, you can visit the new administrative city of Putrajaya and the hi-tech city of Cyberjaya can be visited on day tours, offering a fascinating insight into town planning on a grand scale.
109 Jalan Ampang
Tel: (03) 9235 4848 or 4900.
Website: www.tourism.gov.my
Opening hours: Daily 0800-2200.
The main tourist office looks more like a tourist resort than an information centre. There are restaurants and craft shops but unfortunately the commercialism continues to the desk staff, who are often more interested in organising guided tours or trips around the country rather than dispensing useful information about the city. There are additional tourist information offices in Plaza Putra (on the southern edge of Independence Square) and at KLIA.
Key Attractions
The blue and pink art deco Central Market would look right at home in Miami Beach or Havana. Originally built to house the city's bustling produce market, Central Market is now crammed with shops and stalls selling batiks, pottery, woodcarvings, basketry, kris daggers and other Malaysian handicrafts. It's touristy, but there are some attractive items on sale and there are regular cultural performances, both inside and on the riverside stage. Inside are restaurants and a busy food court, but there are more appealing eateries outside the market on Jalan Hang Kasturi.
Jalan Hang Kasturi
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2031 0399 or 5399 or 7399.
Web: www.centralmarket.com.my
Opening hours: Daily 1000-2200.
Admission Fee: No
Disabled Access: Yes
Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
Close to the National Mosque, this fascinating museum displays an astonishing collection of Islamic painting, sculpture, jewellery, carpets, ceramics and religious manuscripts from across the Muslim world. Highlights include exquisite hand-painted tiles and illuminated medieval copies of the Quran. Allow a couple of hours to explore the cool, air-conditioned galleries and admire the equally striking building.
Jalan Lembah Perdana, 50480
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2274 2020.
Web: www.iamm.org.my
Opening hours: Daily 1000-1800.
Admission Fee: Yes
Disabled Access: Yes
KLCC Aquaria
Located beneath the shiny KLCC Convention Centre, across the park from the Petronas Towers, the nation's finest aquarium boasts everything from sharks and piranhas to seahorses and anemones, as well as a section devoted to land-dwelling reptiles. If you don’t have time to venture to the coast to explore Malaysia's rainbow coral reefs, this is a good second best. Things are very well-set up for children and there's even a 'Fish Therapy Centre', where you can have your feet exfoliated by nibbling 'doctor fish'.
Convention Centre Complex, 50088
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2333 1888.
Web: http//www.aquariaklcc.com
Opening hours: Mon-Friday 1100-2000, Sat & Sun 1030-2000.
Admission Fee: Yes
Disabled Access: Yes
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
Veteran train traveller and writer Paul Theroux summed up this unique building when he called it ‘the grandest station in South East Asia'. This riot of minarets, towers, arches and spires was thrown together in 1911, but it now lives out its days as a minor stop for commuter trains. Nevertheless, it's worth visiting to admire the extraordinary mélange of architectural styles - a kind of Walt Disney meets Moorish British colonialism.
Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, 50621
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: 1300 885 862.
Web: www.ktmkomuter.com.my
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours.
Admission Fee: No
Masjid Jamek (Friday Mosque)
The most atmospheric of Kuala Lumpur's many mosques, the Jamek Masjid is actually a British creation, constructed by an India-obsessed colonial architect in 1907. Standing at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers, at the point where the first settlers scrambled ashore, it's the finest Indo-Saracenic building in the city, with soaring minarets, arched colonnades, and bulbous onion domes. Visitors are welcome outside of prayer times, but remove your shoes before entering and dress modestly. Women should cover their legs and head with the sarongs and headscarves provided.
Jalan Tun Perak, 50400
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2274 6063.
Web: www.malaysiatravel.org.uk
Opening hours: Daily 0830-1600. Closed 1230-1430 and Fri 1100-1430.
Admission Fee: No
Masjid Negara (National Mosque)
The National Mosque gleams as brilliantly as any of KL's skyscrapers, and the striking, geometric building, constructed in 1965, is full of Islamic symbolism. The unusual main dome takes the shape of an 18-pointed star to represent the 13 states of Malaysia and the five central Pillars of Islam. The huge main prayer hall can hold up to 10,000 worshippers, although this section is closed to non-worshippers. To the rear is a mausoleum holding the remains of some of Malaysia's most revered leaders. Visitors are welcome outside of prayer times, but shoes should be removed and modest dress is essential.
Jalan Perdana, 50480
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2693 7784.
Web: www.masjidnegara.gov.my
Opening hours: Daily 0900-1200, 1500-1600 and 1730-1830.
Admission Fee: No
Menara Kuala Lumpur
One of the world's tallest telecommunications towers, the dome topped, needle-like Menara Kuala Lumpur offers fantastic 360° panoramic views over the city from its 276m-high (905ft) observation deck. From here, there are jaw-dropping vistas of the soaring Petronas Towers and surrounding skyscrapers. It's a good place to come to get your bearings before exploring the city on foot. Other facilities at the tower include a revolving restaurant, cafes and a souvenir shop.
Jalan Punchak, off Jalan P Ramlee, 50250
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2020 5444.
Web: www.menarakl.com.my
Opening hours: Daily 0900-2200.
Admission Fee: Yes
Disabled Access: Yes
Merdeka Square
Ringed by the handsome buildings of the former British administration, this green square marks the site where the Malaysian flag was raised for the first time after Independence in 1957. On the west side of the square is the Royal Selangor Club, once a hang out for wealthy colonials, while the eastern edge of the square is flanked by the fanciful domes and turrets of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, built by the same British architect as the Jamek Masjid mosque.
Jalan Raja, 50050
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 9235 4848 or 4800 (tourist office).
Web: www.mtc.gov.my
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours.
Admission Fee: No
Disabled Access: Yes
Culture
Dewan Filharmonik Petronas
For classical music concerts, the main venue in town is Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, in the Petronas Twin Towers complex. Malaysia's first classical concert hall, this is the home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and also hosts other major classical concerts and cultural performances. KLCC
Kuala Lumpur
50088
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2051 7007.
Web: http://www.mpo.com.my
Dance
Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre
North of the centre near the Sentul KTM Komuter station, the stage at KLPAC hosts everything from shows by the Actor's Studio Theatre company to visiting international ballet. Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 4047 9000.
Web: http://www.klpac.com
Music and Dance
Sutra Foundation
This long-established cultural foundation exists to promote traditional Indian classical music and dance. Founded by the Malaysian dance star Ramli Ibrahim, the centre stages regularly-changing shows that capture the captivating rhythms of the subcontinent. 12 Persiaran Titiwangsa 3
Kuala Lumpur
53200
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 4021 1092.
Web: http://www.sutrafoundation.org.my
Seri Melayu
The biggest and brightest of the cultural shows in town, this restaurant is housed in a vast wooden pavilion on the edge of the CBD. As well as quality Malaysian food, Seri Melayu offers a nightly cultural show showcasing the culture, customs and costumes of Malaysia's diverse ethnic groups.Jalan Conlay
Kuala Lumpur
50450
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2145 1833.
Web: http://www.serimelayu.com
Theatre
Istana Budaya Theatre
The home stage of Malaysia's Panggung Negara (National Theatre), the massive Istana Budaya Theatre is the biggest show in town, literally, with seating for almost 1,500 people. Come for epic dramas, serious cultural performances and classical concerts. 50694
Jalan Tun Razak
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 4026 5555.
Web: http://www.istanabudaya.gov.my/web/guest/home
Actor's Studio Theatre
Hosting some imaginative and thought-provoking plays and performances, the Actor's Studio Theatre is a small, intimate venue with just 250 seats. Shows run the range from family dramas set in the colonial period to contemporary dance. Lot 10 Mall, 50 Jalan Sultan Ismail
Kuala Lumpur
50250
Malaysia
Tel: (03) 2142 2009.
Web: http://www.theactorsstudio.com.my
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