At first glance, you might think that Kuala Lumpur is some western city of gleaming skyscrapers and sophisticated shopping malls. But first impressions can be deceptive and behind the modern and commercial front lies a prosperous, vibrant and bustling city of colour and character. Here, colonial buildings rub shoulders with the Art Deco facade of Central Market and the amazing Petronas Twin Towers, still the world’s tallest edifice.

Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it is known, is a shopper’s paradise offering great value compared to other Asian cities. There are many tempting shops, as well as markets where you can enjoy bargaining, the Central Market being the place to find handicrafts, clothes, antiques, kites, jewellery and art. For memorable night-time shopping head for colourful Chinatown, or make your way to Little India for silks and saris. The Mall on Jalan Putra is the place to go for genuine designer goods and Imbi Plaza for computers and software.

Dining out in KL is a relatively inexpensive treat. The combination of authentic cooking styles of Malay, Chinese, Indian and other ethnic communities has created a tantalizing range of “fusion food”. You can experience all flavours of culinary delights in luxury hotels, restaurants, food courts, road-side stalls, Chinese coffee shops (kopitiam) and local and international fast food outlets. Nightlife is buzzing and the capital comes alive then. The Malaysian people are very welcoming and everywhere you go you will be greeted with a smile.