“KUALA LUMPUR, This charming city with its famous landmarks , the historic charm of colonial buildings and its modern shopping malls has a lure that brings people back time after time “
It was almost noon when I arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport pleased to return to spend a few days in the city. For many reasons Kuala Lumpur has become one of my favourite travel destinations, it is a quick 3-hour direct flight from Bali, and the city has so many interesting things to offer.
There are two particular shopping centres I am always drawn to when I visit. The first is The Suria KLCC situated at the base of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. This is one of Malaysia’s premier 
centres where stores offer a mix of both major brands and more affordable merchandise. The second is the Pavilion, a modern shopping centre in the Bukit Bintang area with hundreds of retail shops representing some of the world’s finest brand names along with many famous local brands, entertainment and a selection of quality eating places. In spite of the stunning high rise buildings, futuristic architecture and the fast pace of the city’s development, Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of cultures and has successfully managed to keep and preserve the best of it’s of heritage buildings. On my second day, I visited several historical sites starting with the Sultan Abdul Samad building in front of Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square). Then on to the Blue Mosque, another remarkable building with its unique architecture blending traditional and modernist styles within a structure of integrated Malay and Islamic architecture. Finally on to the Thean Hou Temple, also recognised for its dramatic architecture.
For visitors to KL who have the time, a trip to the city of Malacca is well worth the effort. Only a 2-hour drive from KL itself takes you to the city which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 owing to the rich cultural and historical sites it contains. Most of the places of interest here are close together, so a day-trip is enough to discover what the city has to offer. The highlight is a visit to Stadthuys, built in 1650 the building has been carefully preserved and maintained to retain its original form with a distinctive bright red exterior. While there, you should make a stop at St Paul’s Church and Christ Church, both within easy reach of the Malacca River.
Before leaving the city, spoil yourself by savouring some of the vast variety of food available in the hawker centres, food courts and restaurants. Whatever your preference, you won’t be disappointed. The thriving, cosmopolitan city of Kuala Lumpur is a great place for a short escape.