Kuala Lumpur © www.wikipedia.org
Why? From the top of the world's tallest building, to the
alleyways of Chinatown and Little India, a holiday in Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia's soaring city, is breath-taking. The metropolis is also a
source of fantastic shopping, amazing food and very inexpensive
luxury hotels. The city's cultural diversity provides plenty of
sightseeing for those who travel to Kuala Lumpur, from tranquil
temples and glorious gardens to bustling street markets.
When? Kuala Lumpur is hot and humid all year round, and rain
can be expected any time. The city is therefore a year-round
destination, but it is best to check which local festivals or
cultural events are on before you travel to Kuala Lumpur because
the crowds these attract may make it better to avoid these
occasions.
Who for? Essentially a holiday in Kuala Lumpur is for
shopaholics, who will relish the fantastic malls and street
markets. Families can have a great deal of fun if they travel to
Kuala Lumpur too, with its amazing indoor theme park. Others will
just enjoy wandering the streets between the towering sky-scrapers
and eating as often as possible at the city's legendary
restaurants.
More Info: Everything you need to know to plan and enjoy a
holiday in Kuala Lumpur is contained in our up-to-date and
comprehensive Kuala Lumpur travel guide, which can be printed or
emailed.
Overview
Kuala Lumpur is the bustling capital city of Malaysia and its
showpiece of prosperity and grandeur. Kuala Lumpur means 'muddy
estuary', a name coined by the original tin prospectors who arrived
at the confluence of the Kelang and Gombak rivers in 1860. Kuala
Lumpur has progressed considerably since then as can be witnessed
in the reflections of the glittering skyscrapers elegantly rising
between the well-preserved colonial buildings of yesteryear.
This blend of old and new worlds, interspersed with the diverse
influences of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultural lifestyles, makes
for a fascinating exploration of the city's streets. An orientation
of Kuala Lumpur is best begun from Merdeka Square, the heart of the
city. To the southeast of the square is the modern business centre
and the bustling streets of Chinatown. The picturesque National
Mosque (Masjid Negara) and impressive Railway Station can be
located to the south and beyond them to the west is the city's
green belt. The tranquil and lush Lake Gardens provides some
respite from the frenetic activity of the city. The National Museum
(Muzim Negara), the National Monument and the Malaysian Parliament
are also found on this stretch.
