Destination Inspiration: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Why go?

In Kuala Lumpur , skyscrapers stand alongside golden temples and mosques, and market vendors fill the streets with piles of fresh fruit and flip flops, while the smell of spicy broth simmers out of food halls. As the capital of Malaysia, this city is a magnet for shopping and nightlife but also is a fusion of ancient cultures. Malay, Chinese, Indian, Tamil and Thai people have lived here for generations, a history best appreciated through the local cuisine.

In Chinatown, people haggle and hustle under the swinging red lanterns of Petaling Street. Souvenirs and handbags are sold next to cafeterias cooking up dishes like hokkien mee, a noodle stir-fry of pork, prawns and squid served with lime and sambal. Then there’s Brickfields – known as ‘Little India’ – where you’ll find the best fish head curry, dosa pancakes and banana fritters.

In between feasting, there’s much to see, including the Islamic Arts Museum, the Botanical Gardens and the futuristic Petronas Towers that define the skyline. Don’t miss a trip to the Batu Caves, a limestone hill with Hindu temples just outside the city.

When to go?

Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it’s often called, is hot and humid year round, with a lot of rain often hitting in the afternoon. There are so many covered walkways and indoor entertainment complexes that the rain won’t affect your trip much but for the highest chance of dry weather, plan a trip between May and July.

Where to stay?

Cozy White @ Vortex KLCC – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

These large apartments sleep up to six people and are on the top floors of a skyscraper, so you’ll get great skyline panoramas. Some rooms face Petronas or KL Tower, and you can opt for the Penthouse room, which has a sky deck with a barbecue and a hot tub.

Vortex Suite KLCC by Idaris – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Sleep right in the heart of KL in one of these rooms or apartments, fitted out in fashionable white and grey furniture. Extra touches like potted plants and wall prints make the space feel homely, while the views at night will give you that holiday feeling.

Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

This 5-star hotel has over 600 rooms, with everything from luxurious suites to three-bedroom apartments. Whichever you choose, you’ll have golden bathtubs and skyline views – not to mention access to the spa, outdoor pool and highly-praised breakfast buffet.

Impiana KLCC Hotel – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Each room at Impiana KLCC Hotel comes with a pillow menu and 24-hour room service, so it’s great for unwinding after a day’s sightseeing. There’s direct access to the mall and convention centre via the pedestrian bridge, and attentive staff ready to help day or night.

Traders Hotel – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Traders Hotel is a modern, quiet spot right in the city centre, with rooms looking out to KLCC Park or the Petronas Towers. You can unwind at the indoor swimming pool or steam baths, enjoying the L’Occitane shower gels and soaps, or head up to the sky bar for cocktail hour.