EXPLORING KUALA LUMPUR D.I.Y.
Before the pandemic, I had the chance to explore Kuala Lumpur out of curiosity. This was my first international travel aside from the Philippines and Japan where I reside now. As a Philippine passport holder, Kuala Lumpur is visa-free for 30 days and easy to enter without a lot of requirements.
Wanted to explore this city with limited time and budget? Do your own walking tour without a tourist guide. With the help of the internet and online maps, you can navigate through the metropolis and if you’re a first-timer, it is normal to get lost. Things don’t go as planned but Spontaneous is the best teacher. We got to know ourselves and our own problem-solving skills and this makes the trip more memorable, enjoyable, and fun. A walking tour is the best activity when exploring a new country.
Here are some lists and tips on how to do your own walking tour in Kuala Lumpur on a budget. If you are armed with knowledge, it can save time and money because you know where to go as well.
BUKIT BINTANG STREET
Pavilion Mall at Bukit Bintang
For me, this is the center of Kuala Lumpur’s upscale shopping and fashion boutiques. And if you are low on budget, there is nothing to worry about because there are a lot of low-budget and free activities on this busy thoroughfare. Walking here, you will pass by many restaurants, souvenir shops, henna tattoo stalls, and magic shows at night. The center of this thoroughfare is the Pavilion Mall which houses a lot of retail stores and international restaurants. The fountain in front of the mall is the main attraction. Toss a coin and make a wish.
Bukit Bintang at night
Henna Tattoo
If you’re a woman interested in beauty and fashion, there is Sephora Mall which houses a variety of cosmetic goods. Adjoining the mall are shops filled with fashion accessories at affordable prices. You can find here fast-fashion retailers such as H&M and Zara. Or have yourself a henna tattoo at about RM12 created by artistic Indian women. Or be entertained by magicians at the corners of the street.
JALAN ALOR FOOD STREET AND JALAN CHANGKAT
Thai Fried Rice at Jalan Alor.
The heart of the food scene in Malaysia is located here with plenty of hawker stalls to choose from. They sell mostly Asian cuisines like Chinese, Thai, Malaysian, Indian, and Vietnamese foods. At night, the place is bustling with excitement and festivity. Inexpensive yet the food taste authentic and delicious. This is a must-visit place whenever you visit Kuala Lumpur.
Massage parlors at Jalan Changkat.
Changkat is lined with massage parlors and al-fresco bars. It is the center of Kuala Lumpur’s nightlife and these bars are perfect places if you are looking for music and alcohol. Truly one of the best places to hang out at night if you are with a group of friends.
KLCC and PETRONAS TOWERS
Petronas Towers
To reach this iconic place and landmark, you can take a Grab cab or if you have lots of energy to walk, you can reach this place via The KLCC – Bukit Bintang Walkway. It is a safe and comfortable alternative to the city’s busy and hot roads for pedestrians and it’s very much recommended. KLCC has lots of magnificent views to see, not just the tower itself but the surrounding lush greenery in the park and the fountain itself. At night, the place is absolutely amazing, and you can hang out here without rushing. Just enjoy the views and savor the moment before your eyes.
Park at KLLC
If you’re a shopping enthusiast, you can enter the mall which houses some international retail shops and swanky restaurants. Petronas Towers were once the tallest building in the world during the 1990s. The tower offers an incredible view of Kuala Lumpur’s interesting skylines.
Walking offers a great opportunity to discover things at a slower pace, savoring each moment and a great way to discover something new. Perhaps if you get lost, it’s a great opportunity to experience and discover something unique.
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