Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital, is a melting pot of cultures from all over the world. The predominant language is English, so getting around is never a problem. Within the city itself, almost everything you could need is within walking distance. And if it's not, a 5 - 10 minute cab ride is all it takes. The people are wonderful. Even though everyone has their own religion, their own language, their own culture, courtesy and respect were the priority.

At the heart of the city are the Petronas Twin Towers. These domineering structures were completed in 1998 and were the tallest buildings in the world at that time. (They have since been surpassed by buildings I really don't feel like looking up... ha ha.. get it... looking up.. ha)



At ground level is a shopping mall and convention center. It was at a restaurant outside the convention center that the booze tower was consumed. (Seriously have only seen booze towers at Nacho Night and in Malaysia now)

If you travel 20 minutes outside the city by car, you find yourself in the middle of the Forest Institute of Malaysia (FRIM). Within FRIM are beautiful rainforest hikes that isolate you completely from any hint of civilization. Just before FRIM, you run into the Batu Caves. After climbing 272 stairs, you're enclosed by enormous caves that house many Hindu Temples. On the climb, it is not unusual to be bothered by a few monkeys hungry for whatever snacks you may have on you. After descending back down the stairs, Justin, his dad, and I cooled off with coconut milk, right from the coconut itself at the base of the caves. (Pictures to come!)

On our first day in town, after our booze tower, we took a short subway ride over to Kuala Lumpur's Central Market. Think giant enclosed mall with 100's of craft stores. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs, look at intricate wood carvings, grimace at framed bugs, eat lunch, and enjoy the social atmosphere of Malaysia. Outside the Central Market, a mini-fashion show was going on with young girls dressed up for Christmas. The girls were adorned in beautiful red, green, and gold dresses along with elaborate head pieces. It was a familiar comfort remembering that my favorite holiday was indeed the next day.

On Christmas Day, we rode up to the top of the Kuala Lumpur Tower. Essentially, a very large communications and observation tower. The views of the city were breathtaking. A preserved section of rainforest with several short hiking paths was at the base of the tower.

The appeal of Kuala Lumpur to so many individuals is apparent. It's a friendly and clean city with lots to do. During our stay, we ate Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, Chili's (yes, the restaurant), and who knows what else. I got food poisoning. I got better. We had real Guiness at an Irish Bar. We went to a movie theater with barka loungers, beer, and waiter service. We went to Chinatown and ate coconut pancakes for $0.25. We watched the nightly fountain show in the park below the Petronas Twin Towers. The people are fantastic. We experienced everything possible and I couldn't be more thrilled. I can't wait to do it all again.