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Arrived in KL at noon on Sunday (Airport is some 75km away), hotel not ready so ditch bag and head out for some lunch. Went to a local indoor hawker centre and tried a version of the malay signature dish (I did not know this at the time) called char kway teow. Was tasty other than the shellfish appearing to ooze blood at the side of the plate….didnt even know they could do that. Must have been marinated in something.
Wandered round a shopping mall briefly, then left the air conditioning behind to wander the streets. It is hot here, so hot. 32 degrees and feels like 35. And they have decided to build two more underground lines which has closed what used to be road in order for them to dig it all up. This has caused havoc with traffic and pedestrians alike.
All in all, on first appearances this is quite a contrast from Singapore. Luckily my hotel is ready as I'm in desperate need of a shower and a nap.
Dinner time, I head to Jalan Alor, a renowned street food market around the corner from my hotel. Here is where I see the traditional side of KL. Outdoor vendors lining both sides of the street offering an eclectic mix of foods from all over. All different people eating, from suits to backpackers, a real hustle and bustle in a relaxed atmosphere. I start with some Hainan chicken and rice and a Tiger beer, follow up with spicy pork Mee (noodles) (See, I even talk like a local). That was dinner for about a fiver.
Monday featured a trip up to the caves at Batu. These were fascinating, with massive caverns housing multiple Hindu shrines. The second cave they have recently renovated (how do you renovate a cave??) but it was clearly including new displays.
When heading the huge staircase to the first cave I was set upon by a mob of macaques who were intent on retrieving whatever they could from my rucksack….much to the amusement of others on the steps. Anyway they failed but hung around so I could photograph them a little.
On the way back it was raining and the monorail was broken or something so left that behind and filled my boots on chicken rice and super sweet ice cream in a local shopping mall while looking out over the KL skyline.
Tuesday was the big day…Petronas towers, I took a lot if photos, they are massive, though I cant help but think they would look bigger if they had built just one. Cos you look at one and then go yeh it isn't that big next to that building though is it? Also, 86th floor is ridiculously high.
My conclusion on these was that they were kinda ugly, a little bit space age of yesterday, although the bridge really is a feat of engineering. I did however return that night to see them lit up and they are spectacular at night. Along with the fountain display to lights and music made for a great evening.
Also visited Meara KL (communications tower offering great views of the city and the towers) which has a revolving restaurant…wow! Merdeka square and Central Market (great curry puffs).
In need of a well-earned sleep after that day. Wednesday should feature a couple of temples and some hotel toilets, maybe the botanic gardens too!
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