Do you ever get the feeling you’ve been somewhere before?

Three months ago (which actually feels like a DECADE ago) my flight to Hanoi from Sydney had a 4 hour layover in Kuala Lumpur Airport. Which means when I stepped off the bus at KLCC Station, I had the craziest feeling of Déjà vu. I had been here before, in this exact location in the world, without actually being here.

The capital of Malaysia had always been on my bucket list – from the outside looking in it seemed like a vibrant and bustling east-meets-west fusion. I’d been slowly working my way west for the last few months, and was slowly but surely starting to catch up with the western world (hello Big Mac!). So many blogs I read prior to arriving in KL talked of only spending one or two days in the city – which didn’t appeal to me at all. There was so much to do, I’m going to do it ALL (remember I mentioned I’m a greedy traveller?). After a few months of sun and sea, this faux city girl was ready for a concrete jungle on a backpacker’s budget.

WHERE TO STAY

In any city, accommodation prices are higher whether you are staying in a hostel or a hotel. Although still cheap as chips, the same goes for cities in Southeast Asia. In KL, I opted for something a little more lavish than I had been used to over the past few months (a little comfort doesn’t hurt right?)

I pride myself on being able to find the best deal in town and this time was no different.

During my time in KL, I stayed in a two bedroom apartment in the Regalia Suites – which I had found through Airbnb. The apartment was spacious and homely, with a balcony, washing machine (clean clothes, finally!), hot water, and (of course) free Wi-Fi. The best part? Staying in the apartment gave me exclusive access to the rooftop infinity pool which has THE BEST view in town. Watching the PETRONAS Twin Tower light up from the comfort of my very own rooftop pool made me the luckiest flashpacker in Southeast Asia. (However remember at some point you will need to leave the pool and actually go see the city. Trust me, it’s hard)

The actual best part? The apartment only comes in at £18 a night. I was happy, my bank account was even happier.

Join Airbnb here to stay in Kuala Lumpur’s best budget accommodation.

WHERE TO EAT

I arrived in KL during the height of Ramadan which means during the day the foodie vibe is very subdued and hard to find. However, at night, the city comes alive.

The main street food hub of KL is Jalan Aloor, in Bukit Bintang. Just after sundown the street is bustling with locals and tourists alike ready to sample the best of Asian cuisine. Jump from stall to restaurant to try Malaysian delights such as a Laksa, or Nasi Lemak. Finish off with some pulled tea (Teh Tarik) and coconut ice cream freshly made right in front of your eyes. If you’re more of an early riser, head to Jalan Imbi morning market for breakfast and the best coffee in KL (try the Hainanese coffee, a sweet blend of tea and coffee with boiled milk).

Basically, when in KL ditch the overpriced restaurants and head for the streets, where you’ll find authenticity in every single bite (at the best price in town).

WHAT TO DO

What is a trip to Kuala Lumpur without going to see the iconic PETRONAS Twin Towers. These massive skyscrapers compliment the KL Skyline with some impressive architecture and dreamy lights when the sun sets. There’s plenty to do near the complex – including a huge shopping mall and KLCC Park.

If you’re feeling brave, head up the Skybridge observation deck for unique view of the city and the towers (tickets are around £14 per person). Personally, I didn’t feel the need to go to the observation deck (I already had THE best view in town). The towers are so striking, even from down below, that it didn’t feel necessary (and I saved myself a bit of money). Stay for sunset and watch the towers light up with a pink-orange-sky backdrop (hello Instagram!).

If you’re looking for cheap souvenirs and knock off designer duds, look no further than Chinatown. A short walk away from the Twin Towers and you’ll find undercover markets selling everything and anything you can think of.

As much as I pretend to be a city girl, cabin fever does start to set in after a while.

If you’re feeling claustrophobic just jump on one of the many trains and hit up the Batu Caves. These impressive Hindu monuments are the most important to the religion outside of India, and they’re pretty extraordinary. If you stay at the Regalia Suites, Putra train station is just opposite and it costs 2 MYR each way to get to the caves. Bring your walking shoes, as there is a hell of staircase to get to the first cave. Be careful of your belongings, there are tons of cheeky monkeys frolicking about and they are not afraid to steal things right out of your hand (cue a screaming Japanese woman as a monkey steals a plastic bag full of snacks straight from her grip)

Many people just come for a stopover in KL (just like my layover a few months back), but there is so much more to this city than a conveniently placed airport. Extend your stop over and sample the mish-mash of culture Malaysia has to offer. You won’t regret it.

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