Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is quite an interesting city. Perhaps the most easily recognizable landmark is the Petronis Towers which dominate the skyline both day and night. They shine and glow and it is hard to take your eyes off of them. At the base of the towers is a shopping mall and the convention center. Outside the mall is a huge green space with dancing fountains and a swimming pool and playgrounds for the children.

We were very lucky in that May Lene, who works for Steelcase, graciously gave us her holiday for a 14 1/2 hour tour of the city.I will do a separate post on the food for the day, but suffice to say it was all local and all tasty. Following breakfast we did a driving tour of several areas and saw some of varied architecture that gives this city so much of its interest and character. We then headed downtown to enjoy the 2nd biggest passion of the Malay people - shopping (the first being eating). We have the Steelcase KL Annual Dinner on Saturday night and I needed a dress. The theme is Hollywood Glam. (Photos to follow after the dinner.)

After shopping we strolled the area around the Petronis Towers. One of the other landmarks downtown is the KL Tower which has a viewing deck. We did not make it up this day. Perhaps another time.

On our drive one of the most interesting areas we say was Little India. The main street through this part of town is lined with the most decorative arches and street lamps. It is hard to keep up just looking from one sight to the next.

After covering the area around the towers, we took the train to the local markets. City Market has been operating since 1888 and is filled with local wares and all sorts of enticements. Pashminas and scarves are everywhere and they are beautiful. After leaving City Market we proceeded to the Chinese Market where stalls are crowded together selling everything you could imagine (real and faux) and bargaining is the key. We spent time wandering and bargaining and then headed for dinner. Think Asian Little Italy. Following dinner we went back to center city to the Traders Hotel and the Skybar on the 33rd floor looking out on the Petronis Towers. 

It was a great day and there is so much more than I can report here, but it is definitely a day Ken & I will never forget.