A day in Kuala Lumpa

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After a good flight overnight we arrived at KL. Full marks to Malaysian Airways – in flight meals were good and the Carlsberg was Carlsberg. It’s a 45 minute drive into the city centre where we had 2 nights at the Traders Hotel. Our room on the 17th floor looked out at the Petronas Towers and a small park in front. We only had time for a quick walk over the Towers for a late supper – our 4th supper in 16 hours but who’s counting.

Next morning we were booked on a half day tour of the city. There isn’t really a great deal to see so we mostly drove about and made quick stops (even our guide book only ran to a maximum of 3 days which seemed to include 2 days shopping!).

Anyway our tour included a trip to the museum which gave us a quick insight into the country. The sea level used to be lower and there was one land mass linking Malaysia, Borneo, Sumatra and Java etc. Rising sea level then formed the islands. For the last couple of thousand years there has been a succession of invaders / traders ending up with the East India company building the railways and planting vast plantations of rubber trees.

Malaysia also used to be the largest producer of tin in the world. The tin was dredged by massive bucket chains and then processed on the ship. Our tour stopped at the Pewter (tin, copper and antinomy) factory. Check out the world’s largest pewter tankard – sadly not full of beer. They also had a model of twin towers made of tankards which is a change from hanging them from pub ceilings.

Tried out the underground system in the afternoon and spent an hour in the hotel gym as we both need to lose weight. Hopefully we can come home a little fitter and lighter.

In the evening we had a stroll along Bintang Walk which is a mass of shops and restaurants. Food is really good and cheap although balanced by the high cost of beer. You can eat curry for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bang goes the diet. Julia sipped some lager.

KL is definitely worth a visit but only for a day or two – we are now flying to Borneo.

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Comments

[Craig & Barbs]

Life's a beer!
New Year's day - head a little sore, can't understand why given the lack of beer consumed. Probably the bubbly, or I'm a light weight/half pint! Just booked Sydney accomodation & Barbs has emailed you both (assuming you are checking your work emails?). Central ie Darling Harbour, so bring your walking shoes - no car/cab required. Off to Chelsea tomorrow & another round of goodbye's this coming week. Has warmed up here, but jealous of your trip & warmer climes. Enjoy C&B

[Mum and Dad]

Happy New Year. Things seem to be going well. We're already jealous with itchy feet! Not too much of the curry. You will be very antisocial on long flight.

[Sian]

Happy New Year!
Hi both, no need to ask if you are well, I can see from the blogs that you are on a much needed holiday. Sally sent me the link to your blog and I have to say that I am completely jealous! I have always wanted to go to Borneo to work with the Orangutans; maybe one day! Anyway, have a fabulous time and take care. Sian. x