Kuala Lumpur City Breaks

A guide to Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it is affectionately known, is a booming, modern Asian city that boasts a unique cultural diversity. Its history as a British colonial outpost is still very evident, despite the mushrooming city skyscrapers, and you'll experience teeming streets full of architectural delights and much frenzied activity. The real heart of the city is Merdeka Square, which is surrounded by glorious examples of British Victorian construction. The mock Tudor-style Royal Selangor Club is as unique a building as you will find in Kuala Lumpur, and the main railway station is a fabulous blend of Moorish and British styles. Built in 1911, it is a truly commanding structure and a testament to eccentric design.

A paradise for bargain hunters

Shoppers will be astounded by the bargain prices in Kuala Lumpur, and its chaotic street markets offer the best rewards in terms of low prices and sheer atmosphere. Virtually all visitors head to Chinatown for the vast open air market at Jalan Petaling. It offers a treasure trove of cheap electronics, fashion, household goods, gifts and more. Sample some of the tempting street snacks and calorific Indian sweets as you haggle for the right price. There's also a huge range of restaurants, bars and entertainment options. Upscale shopping is centred on the ultra modern Golden Triangle district, with its abundance of designer outlets, department stores and stylish eateries. From here, you can catch a glimpse of the abiding image of modern day KL - the gleaming Petronas Towers, one of the most impressive and tallest buildings in the world.

Colourful, action-packed days out

Local transport is cheap and efficient, and is a simple way to explore the area and some of its wonderful attractions. Kuala Lumpur has two fabulous theme parks, which provide thrilling water slides and gravity defying rollercoasters, and slightly more sedate but no less rewarding, is the Kuala Lumpur Zoo and Aquarium, set in lush botanic gardens and pleasant rainforest trails. The best natural attraction is the huge Batu Caves, an extensive network of underground caverns, and revered as a shrine for the Hindu faith, it hosts the Thaipusan festival each year which is attended by thousands of devotees.