Malyasia
Malaysia is one of the most diverse areas I have ever explored. I surprisingly really enjoyed my stay in this country even though I did not really plan anything spectacular; I merely thought it was a place to spend some time travelling from Singapore to Thailand. I had only spent a significant amount of time in two places: Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Well, I only spent one full day and night in Penang so I’m not even sure if I could count that as significant. Nevertheless, I tried to use all my time wisely to thoroughly explore as much as I could and what I found was nothing short of awe and beauty.
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s cultural and population hub. Its a dense metropolitan area filled with amazing food, diverse cultures, towering skyscrapers and a surprisingly efficient and great public transport. I took their train lines and subways to visit and see as much of the city as I could. The Petronas Twin Towers is an iconic part of the city’s skyline – seeing these pillars of light at night were a great treat. Its dizzying heights are exacerbated by visiting KLCC Park . Seeing it all the way from the base is something else and the park also offers some shade and a wave pool to cool down in under the sun’s blazing heat. It is obvious that there is a lot of money and care placed in the park. It is clean, well maintained and beautiful to stroll around in. It is also nearby the city’s subway system so you could easily hop in and visit another part.
The next stop would be visiting China Town Street Market . Walk around here and explore all the vendors can offer you. Its quite the bustling hub of trade and is a sight to see. You could also practice your haggling skills and see if you can score some great merchandise. I personally bought a small bag and shorts that still sees use even to this day.
I would also recommend a stop by the National Art Gallery; it is free and the collection is amazing to see. There is also a nearby brand new subway station that puts public transport in the west to shame.
As the last stop but very much not the least : Batu Caves. Just a train ride away from the city, this natural, cultural, historic and beautiful attraction is quite the sight to see. It is extremely easy to access using the public transport network as it has a separate line all to itself. Better yet, it is free to visit. No entrance fee. Just take a step out and explore its steps and huge caverns. Pay respects to its temples and places of worship and leave the monkeys a snack or two. This place is definitely touristy and crowded but for good reason. One of my highlights in my visit to Malaysia, I cannot recommend enough to stop by and visit this easily accessible, free, and beautiful natural wonder.
The monkeys are part of the sights. Make sure you respect them and treat with some degree of caution as they can be quite the rascals.
Penang
While I was in Malaysia, I had heard about a country-wide event happening in Thailand; the nation’s New Years holiday Songkran, was in full swing. My goal was to eventually find my way there through Malaysia anyways so I hightailed it out of Kuala Lumpur and near the border. I found myself in the historic city of Penang, Georgetown.
Walking by the Tan Jetty and the surrounding areas gives you a glimpse of the local lifestyle. A nice mix of casual portside living and historic demure architecture can be seen all around. Modern amenities are also commonly found in the area, plenty of great restaurants, cafes, touristy attractions, hotels and many more. I personally enjoyed walking through Little India and grabbing myself one of the best samosas I have ever eaten. Of course, it is also hard to miss the amazing Street Art seen all over the streets of Penang.
Travellers Pursuits 