WA N D E R L U S T
You get a comfortable car to yourself and get to
explore major attractions that are a little further
from the main city, like the Batu Caves because
a visit to Kuala Lumpur would be incomplete
without visiting the Caves.
My tour began at 11 a.m. and ended around 6 p.m.
and I got to explore Batu Caves, Genting Islands,
Strawberry Farms, Colmar Tropicale French Theme
Resort and the Japanese Village and Botanical
Garden.
SHOPPING
Ah, the favourite word! Nothing made me happier
than seeing the quality of the local products along
with their price tags.
Chinatown is a great mish-mash of street vendors
and food stalls. This is the place where you need
to bring your best bargaining skills forward. Do
not shy away from haggling or you will be at a loss
because the prices quoted are much higher than
what they are truly worth. I bought handbags and
clutches initially priced at MYR 150 but bargained
down to MYR 40. Likewise, you will find great
watches, shoes and electronics. Even though
Chinatown is a good place to buy souvenirs, price
wise, I would recommend Central Market for more
variety.
Central Market
Kuala Lumpur is home to some of the best, local
shopping experience. There are long strips of
shopping centres in all major parts of the city. The
local brands are inexpensive and as good as any big
fast fashion retailers. A short walk from Chinatown is Central Market.
This is a great place to buy mementoes to take
back home. You can easily purchase several small
souvenirs within MYR 100. I also had the best
Malaysian sugar cane juice here which was much-
needed refreshment as I shopped.
Berjaya Times Square EATING OUT
It seems like most of the malls in KL live by the
philosophy of “go big or go home.” I recommend
Berjaya Times Square because it stands 9 floors tall.
The shopping centre houses local brands at large
with a few international fashion and beauty brands.
I found some great trendy shoes that ranged from
MYR 35 to MYR 75. You will also find chic tops
and dresses inspired by Korean fashion. There is also
an indoor theme park which is known to attract
many visitors. Food seems to unite people in Malaysia. Thanks
to the cultural mix and acceptance, it is almost
impossible to not eat well, and diversely, in KL.
Lot 10
If you are looking to splurge a little, Lot 10 sells
authentic designer clothes at bargain prices, among
the cheapest you are likely to find in Southeast Asia.
Since I was mainly looking into local finds, I did
not buy anything here; however, I did see some big
brands offering up to 50% discount.
50
Chinatown
The food is budget friendly in general whether
you prefer street side food or fine dining. You can
expect anywhere between MYR 20 to MYR 200
for two persons per meal. I would say, budget wise,
eating at a fine dining restaurant would be almost
equivalent to many restaurants in Pakistan, except
you experience unique local eats, like curry laksa,
along with international cuisine.
You will find good food everywhere. For instance,
there are a few restaurants at the foot of Batu Caves
which offer inexpensive South Indian vegetarian
food. I had a simple lunch there which included
plain rice with dal, vegetarian curry, mixed
vegetables and coconut chutney served on banana
leaves. The serving was big enough for two people
and it kept me going throughout the tour. It cost
me less than MYR 20.