A Local's guide to Southeast Asia - Kuala Lumpur

Petronas Twin Towers - Rising above the heart of Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC), the twin towers are a must-see. More than just a photo-op, visitors can go up the towers and walk the bridge adjoining them for a view of the nearby KL tower and the surrounding cityscape. At nightfall, go to nearby KLCC park for great views of the towers lit up, light shows at the fountain and stroll in the cool night air or sneak into Suria KLCC, a shopping mall underneath the towers with an extensive food court, for a quick bite and drink.

Batu Caves - A 20-minute drive north of KLCC, once you approach these magnificent limestone caves, you're greeted by the sight of the towering golden statue of Lord Murugan, a guardian figure that watches over the entrance. Take the 270 steps up into the belly of the cave as you are greeted by long-tailed macaques (secure your food!) and behold the processions of religious devotees paying their respects at the altars nestled within these caves. After your workout up and down these steps, grab a fresh coconut to quench your thirst at a street vendor by temple gates.

Central Market and Chinatown - Discover local arts and crafts at nearby Central Market, also known as ‘Pasar Seni’ in Malay. Within its art deco façade is a treasure trove of arts and crafts. Whether you’re in the market for batiks, silks or antique teak furniture, get ready to go on a handicraft tour of Malaysia as you learn the processes involved in creating and the artistic community behind them. A stone’s throw away from Central Market lies Chinatown and in its heart, Petaling Street, a labyrinthine collection of stalls where you can find everything from knock-off designer goods to hole in the wall eateries. Haggling is an art form here, and the thrill of bargaining for souvenirs, clothing, and trinkets is an adventure in itself. The area around Petaling Street is lined with colonial-era shophouses that have been transformed into cafes, boutiques and galleries. Beyond the market and the food, Petaling Street and KL Chinatown are home to some of the city's most beautiful temples and historic buildings, most notably, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Guan Di temple offer a quiet respite from the boisterous streets of Chinatown.

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia - This visually impressive museum houses a vast collection of Islamic artifacts and exhibits that beautifully showcase the diversity of Islamic culture. From intricately woven carpets and stunning calligraphy to mesmerizing ceramics and miniatures, the museum's galleries unveil the rich tapestry of Islamic creativity and craftsmanship. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the museum provides a profound insight into the diverse expressions of Islamic culture, heritage and philosophy.

KL Bird Park and Perdana Botanical Garden - The world's largest free-flight walk-in aviary, KL Bird Park is a paradise for bird lovers. Stroll through lush landscapes as colorful birds fly freely around you. Encompassing diverse gardens, a verdant lake and shaded pathways, the Perdana Botanical Garden offers a respite from the city's hustle and an invitation to connect with nature. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a leisurely stroll, or a chance to admire Kuala Lumpur's native plant species, this botanical paradise promises an idyllic escape where the symphony of rustling leaves and chirping birds becomes your soundtrack.

Royal Selangor Visitor Centre - In the late 19th century, tin mining was one of the primary economic drivers that gave rise to. Get a glimpse into Malaysia's pewter heritage at this center. Take a guided tour to learn about pewter crafting and even try your hand at creating your own pewter item. As you step inside, you're welcomed into a realm where molten pewter transforms into intricate masterpieces through skilled hands and creative minds. Guided tours unveil the artistry behind the craft, from the meticulous processes to the artistic designs that have garnered international acclaim. Whether you're intrigued by heritage, intrigued by the alchemy of metal, or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, the Royal Selangor Visitor Center invites you to delve into the timeless art of pewter crafting and even take part in crafting your own lasting memento.

Jalan Alor and the Bukit Bintang Area - From high-end fashion boutiques to bustling street markets, Bukit Bintang is a shopper's paradise and littered with malls that cater to every budget. Satisfy your tastebuds at Jalan Alor, a lively street known for its array of delectable Malaysian street food. When the sun sets, the area transforms into a nocturnal wonderland with vibrant night markets and street performances. Whether you’re hankering for kebabs or korma, dozens of Middle Eastern and local eateries await you. Whether you're seeking retail therapy, indulgent dining or a taste of Kuala Lumpur's nocturnal spirit, Bukit Bintang captures the essence of the city's dynamic spirit and modern allure.

Kampung Baru - Wander into Kampung Baru, a traditional Malay village within the city, for a taste of traditional architecture, cuisine and the local hospitality. As you wander through its charming lanes, you'll encounter traditional wooden houses, lush gardens and warm smiles. Kampung Baru is where age-old Malayrecipes and aromatic flavors are showcased in roadside food stalls and traditional food hall-like eateries. It's a place where the past and present harmoniously coexist, inviting you to experience the heartfelt and cherished traditions that have been preserved across generations.

KL Forest Eco Park - Nestled within the heart of KL and at the foot of the KL Tower, this urban rainforest offers a refreshing retreat for both locals and travelers. As you step onto its shaded pathways and elevated canopy walkways, you'll be transported into a world where towering trees, chirping birds and the gentle rustle of leaves create a symphony of calm. The KL Forest Eco Park isn't just a refuge for greenery; it's a living classroom where you can learn about Malaysia's diverse flora and fauna. With panoramic views of the city skyline from the Canopy Walk, this park seamlessly marries nature and urbanity.

Day Trips

Malacca - A 90-minute drive South of KL sits Malacca, or ‘Melaka’, as it is known to locals. Driving into old Malacca is like stepping back in time, where centuries-old colonial buildings, vibrant street art, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites bear witness to its storied past. Wander through Jonker Street's bustling markets, sample traditional Nyonya cuisine and learn about its rich past as a Portuguese and Dutch colony at the A’Famosa and St. Paul's Hill.

Janda Baik - About an hour’s drive away from the KL in serene forest tucked away in the foothills of the Titiwangsa mountain range, is the village of Janda Baik. Whether you enjoy strolling through verdant forests, savoring farm-to-table cuisine or simply unwinding amid the soothing sounds of nature, Janda Baik promises an oasis of peace and rejuvenation.

Ipoh - A 2-hour drive north of KL will whisk you away to Ipoh. Though smaller in size than its culinary peers in KL and Penang, this sleepy but charming town boasts a thriving food scene that is second to none. From aromatic white coffee to delectable hawker dishes like chicken noodles cooked in shrimp broth and tender salt-baked chicken, every meal here will leave you wanting to come back for more. And bring your hiking shoes, because after you’ve recovered from that generous dose of hawker delight, you won’t want to miss hiking or walking the lush limestone hills, mystical caves and serene temples that are a stone’s throw away from the city center.

Yut Kee - Yut Kee is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary institution with a history that spans generations. One of the standout dishes is the Hainanese Chicken Chop, a dish that Yut Kee has been perfecting for decades. The succulent chicken is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, bathed in a sweet and savory brown sauce. My personal favorite is the beef noodles in dark sauce, featuring tender pieces of brisket and tendon slow cooked overnight and a daikon bone broth that takes me back to grandma’s home cooking. Of course, no visit to Yut Kee is complete without trying kaya toast and coffee. The kaya (a sweet coconut and egg jam) is velvety and rich, spread generously over toasted bread and paired with a fragrant cup of Hainanese coffee.

Village Park Restaurant - Located 30 minutes from downtown KL in Damansara Uptown, Village Park is hailed by locals as one of the best places for nasi lemak in KL. Here, pandan rice is infused with coconut milk to creamy and fluffy deliciousness. The sambal packs a punch of flavor without overwhelming your taste buds. The crispy fried chicken is a revelation, tender and succulent beneath its golden, perfectly seasoned crust. You can’t go wrong here - whether you’re in the mood for beef rendang or the squid sambal. Every dish is a symphony of authentic Malaysian flavors. To save you from sweating up a puddle, you’ll want to wash all this yummy down with a key lime iced tea, also known as limau ais.

Lot 10 Hutong - Here, you'll find a remarkable array of hawker stalls, each specializing in a particular dish. From the rich and aromatic Penang char kway teow to the savory delights of Hainanese chicken rice, the dishes here are a masterful homage to Malaysia's gastronomic heritage. My favorite - wonton mee from Ho Weng Kee. The noodles are perfectly springy, and the wonton dumplings are generously filled. Another must-try is the succulent roast duck from Kim Lian Kee. For dessert, you ask? Look no further than the rich and velvety cendol from Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul for a sweet conclusion to your culinary adventure. The pandan-flavored jelly noodles swimming in coconut milk and palm sugar syrup provide a delightful contrast to the savory hawker food.

Acha Curry House - The menu at Acha Curry House is a delightful journey through the vibrant flavors of South India, showcasing a variety of curries, biryanis, and delectable tandoori dishes. Acha takes you to the heart of South Indian cuisine through small scoops of curry on a banana leaf rice platter. One of the standout dishes is the Chicken Biryani. The tender chicken pieces are marinated to perfection. For vegetarians, the Paneer Butter Masala is a creamy and satisfying dish that's a favorite among patrons. The paneer is velvety and the sauce is a rich blend of tomato, cream and aromatic spices.

The Lankan Crabs - Crab aficionados, listen up. Whether you’re in the mood for classic chili crab, aromatic butter crab or spicy black pepper crab, each creation showcases an authentic knowledge of the flavors of local, South Indian and Sri Lankan appetites. The sauces are rich and flavorful, making the messy but delightful task of cracking and devouring the crab an adventure. Not into crabs? Don’t worry - choose from fresh prawns, squid, or fish, all impeccably cooked and served with a variety of delectable sauces that cater to different palates.

Penrose KL - One of the stars of Chinatown’s bar renaissance is Penrose. A sleek and intimate 20-seater with a penchant for clean lines and geometry and a newly minted spot among Asia’s top 50 bars in 2023, Here, head bartender Jon Lee presents a menu steeped in a five-pronged approach to cocktails - alcohol, taste, body, dilution and flavor. Whether you’re into highballs, sours, or venturing off-menu, the friendly mixology masters at Penrose are sure to delight and while they’re at it, offer up some great suggestions for things to see and do.

TERUMI - A 30-minute drive from downtown KL, Terumi, also known as ‘the tender bar’ Is known for delicious concoctions with delicate ingredient pairings that emphasize balance and flavor. This bar is the brainchild of Shirmy Chan, winner of the 2019 Malaysian Bartender of the Year. Here she leads an all-woman team of mixologists who continuously innovate on their seasonal offerings. My favorite is the Hakanai, a refreshing take on a gin and tonic with a local infusion of guava and salted plum.

Bar Trigona - What sets them apart is using sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, including honey produced by their very own rooftop beehive. Each drink is a carefully crafted masterpiece, with flavors that are both innovative and rooted in nature. The signature Trigona Dream cocktail, featuring gin, honey, calamansi lime and torch ginger flower, is a standout example of the bar's commitment to sustainability and flavor. It's a destination for those seeking a cocktail experience that marries innovation, sustainability and a deep appreciation for nature, where each drink tells a story and the art of mixology becomes a celebration of Malaysia's rich biodiversity.