THE 452m-tall Petronas Towers or Twin Towers is such an imposing landmark in Kuala Lumpur (KL) that its presence beckons to all.
Tourists usually have to make reservations a day in advance to go up the skyscraper for a panoramic view of the Malaysian capital. The towers allow free visits a few times a day, and visitors can only go up to the level where a bridge links the two towers. The building also houses the Petronas Philharmonic Hall.
While there, you should visit the Suria KLCC (Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre), which is at the base of the towers. Just show your passport at the customer service counter on the concourse level and you will get a special discount card for your shopping there.
The giant mall is full of high-class boutique shops. On the ground level outside, cafes fringe a huge pool that lends the area a relaxing holiday air.
Batu Caves
Now, there is no greater contrast to this gleaming glass and steel edifice than another impressive monument, which has been carved out by nature - the Batu Caves, 13km from Kuala Lumpur. This spot promises an awesome experience if you venture deeper into the cavernous cave, preferably in a group.
But there are no lifts to take you up this complex of limestone caves. You have to trudge up its 272 steps that lead you to a huge opening where a Hindu temple is located. Hindu devotees pack the area every year during the Thaipusam festival.
Another very absorbing place to visit is Chinatown in Petaling Street in the city centre. Roadside stalls selling everything imaginable line this street. Also venture into some adjacent streets. The best time to do this is just before sundown when it is cooler. Do not be afraid to bargain - it is a way of life there.
Those who love historical architecture should head for the old railway station built in 1910 and of Moorish design. There is a palpable old-world charm as you enter and realise how huge and quiet it is. It now serves only city commuters, as the role of handling intercity rail services has been taken over by the new KL Sentral station in nearby Brickfields.
While in the vicinity, take a walk to the Padang nearby which fronts the Royal Selangor Club and the historical City Hall across the road. Then drive to the city's national museum and the lush 91.6ha Lake Gardens just behind it.
In the evenings, the two hot spots are the pubs and restaurants in Bangsar and Jalan Bukit Bintang. The Bangsar pubs which open until the small hours are more popular with the younger set. And if you are in the country between June 5 and Aug 7, make it a point to visit the Malaysia International Aerospace Exhibition 2007 at the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang.
One crowd puller there is the Buran Space Discovery Exhibition. The Buran was the former Soviet Union shuttle craft that flew in space in 1988. Visitors can observe the authentic craft on display, see an astronaut training show, watch videos of the planet Mars and enjoy aerospace exploits in a 3-D theatre.
Buran Space Discovery Exhibition
This exhibition is on a floor area of 200,000 sq ft, and visitors can also experience shuttle-landing, lunar-landing and shuttle-flight simulators.
Happenings
JUNE 5 TO AUG 7 Malaysia International Aerospace Exhibition (Subang, Selangor):
This is your rare chance to take a close look at a space shuttle in a world-class aerospace expo. Website: www.MIA2007.com
JUNE 8 TO 10 Penang International Dragon Boat Festival (Penang):
Experience a splendid display of colours as brightly painted boats race to the rhythmic beating of drums and roaring crowds. Website: www.penangdragonboat.com
JUNE 16 TO SEPT 2 Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival (throughout Malaysia):
Enjoy unbelievable discounts and special offers on designer wear, cosmetics, footwear and electronic items in this nationwide shopping extravaganza. Website: www.mymegasale.com
