Your food, architecture, and blended cultures were all really nice, so I’d say you’re pretty swell.

The entire time I was in Malaysia, I don’t think my stomach growled once. One of our new Malaysian friends told us that food is a pretty serious part of a Malaysian’s day because they’re never not eating. It sounds like a joke, but I believe it. Kayla and I were constantly eating. It’s a grazers paradise and everything is super cheap. I’m a grazer. I was in heaven.

We can pretend I didn’t go to Chili’s 3 times, though.

While we were in Kuala Lumpur, we stopped by Petaling Street, the Batu Caves, Central Market, and wandered everywhere in between. The metro system is nice and can get you pretty much anywhere in under 45 minutes for ridiculously cheap.We got from one side of the city to the other for under $10 via taxi. You can’t do THAT in Louisiana. But why would you want to?

Picture time!

Batu Caves are a series of caves outside of KL that houses small temples and is guarded by a giant statue of the Hindu deity, Murugan. The caves themselves are interesting and the temple portions have amazing architecture, but I was more attracted to the herd of monkeys on the steps outside. It’s definitely worth the visit, even if it is just for the monkeys.

KL Bird Park, Central Market and Petaling Street are in the same neighborhood, so walking (taxiing) from one to the other is doable. KL Bird park boasts a HUGE assortment of birds (and fish!) and takes about two hours to explore entirely. They currently hold the title of the world’s largest free-flight walk-in aviary, so you know it’s serious business. Central market is full of vendors selling anything from saris to fish pedicures, and it’s all affordable. Petaling Street is a few blocks over and is always busy. Kayla and I spent too much money on knockoffs there, but most of the other foreigners in the area were doing the same. No guilty conscience here, guys. I’ve got Prada AND Chanel on an English teacher’s salary. Jealousy is ugly.

While we were in Kuala Lumpur, we stayed at Reggae Mansion Hostel in downtown KL. It’s a short walk to central market and Petaling street and there’s a rooftop bar that’s open every night. First impressions were nice. That is all.

There’s never a shortage of things to do in the area, but if you want to venture out, there are lots of places to go that won’t break the bank. There’s even a free shuttle bus to Pavillion Mall if you’re tired of traditional markets. Bukit Bintang Walkway is totally worth the visit if you’re looking for nightlife, and it’s eerily similar to Bourbon Street in New Orleans. You’ll definitely meet a few characters if you go.

Be sure to ask locals! We found that most people are really helpful if you show an interest in exploring the city.

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