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Trip Start Oct 05, 2008 Previous
Entry Trip End Ongoing

  Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
Thursday, March 5, 2009

After much deliberating over the choice of bus companies for our trip north and into Malaysia we opted for the colourful Grassland Express. It was a very comfy ride and we sailed through the empty border post - although the amount of desk suggested this could get much much busier. The road up to K.L was really good and it was nice to sit back and admire the views of thick forests of palm trees as far as the eye could see. We stopped for a quick break along the way and, not really knowing what anything was, played it safe and went for a mango smoothie - enjoying the big price drop from Singapore. We carried on up to K.L and, with some very creative driving got through some ridiculously heavy traffic. We did then however, enter possibly the longest queue of buses I am ever likely to see at the ridiculously manic Puduraya bus station, which was still actually some way in the distance. making like tree's and getting the hell out of there, we jumped off the bus and were thrust headlong into the manic Kuala Lumpur rush hour - now this was more how I pictured an Asian city!

After fending off some persistent taxi drivers we took a short stroll to the old quarter and found 'Le Village' - an old and very pretty looking building located above a curry house. Heading up the stairs we were greeted by shoes galore before stepping into the quirky lounge area - full of paintings and artsy type figures playing various musical instruments while smoking and looking gernally pretty cool. They had availability at the hostel so we cehcked in to our £5 a night windowless 'sweatpit'. Still, there was a good vibe going on and it was a ncie building - who cares if there is a little excess perspiration hey!? K.L did mark the start of the 'squat toilet' - not so much of an issue for me but the start of an awkward few months for Daisy!

We spent three nights in total in K.L and did really enjoy it there, despite the humidity and subsequent sleep deprived nights. le Village was full of great people, with many an offer to sit and play the bongos or go out for a beer. The streets of the old quarter were dirty, busy and polluted but we noticed a definite change in the business district - home of the stunning Petronas Towers. There was change afoot - with designer shops and lots of big shiny buildings which reflected Malaysia's growing development. We had a good explore around the city, taking a trip up the towers, exploring the Central Market and Petaling Street. A highlight was defintely a trip to the Bird Park - the worlds largest covered avery. despite the dual pricing structure raising an eyebrow (at least they are honest about it) it was a fantsctic afternoon of parrots, toucans and all things birdy. So all in all, a good few days - met lots of nice people and had a good explore around an interesting and developing city. Would be really intrigued to see what it is like in five years time - might have to make a return visit.

Up next -  a respite from the heat in the Cameron highlands

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