The third stop on my 21-Day Birthday Adventure landed me in the captivating country of Malaysia. Securing a budget-friendly Air Asia flight for less than $100, I booked my stay at the Westin Kuala Lumpur using Marriott points. Despite having just a day and a half in Malaysia, I made the most of every moment.
Upon arrival at the hotel, I was pleasantly surprised with an upgrade to a one-bedroom residence from the standard room I had booked. Positioned in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the hotel offered a stunning view of the city and the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur shopping mall, conveniently located just across the street. After settling in and freshening up, I wasted no time hitting the bustling streets of the city.
I strolled through Kuala Lumpur for hours, absorbing the sights and sounds. Lunch at a local restaurant’s patio allowed me to indulge in people-watching while immersing myself in the city’s vibrant energy. Before calling it a day, I ventured to the mall to locate the Pandora store, ensuring I could acquire a charm representing my Malaysian adventure. With the task completed, I leisurely walked back to the hotel.
After a short rest, I headed to the executive lounge for cocktail hour, a delightful feature that also included a substantial dinner. The lounge’s outdoor patio, overlooking the city, provided the perfect setting to unwind and conclude the day.
The following morning, I enjoyed a complimentary breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant. Gathering my belongings, I met my driver in the lobby, ready for what was initially intended to be a group tour. Luck was on my side as the cancellations turned it into a private tour, offering me the flexibility to shape the day’s itinerary. The driver, a local expert, shared recommendations and insights, enriching my experience.
Our first stop was Istana Negara (where the President resides), offering not only a photo opportunity but also a fascinating history lesson. Thean Hou Temple was next on the itinerary, where my driver provided valuable context before dropping me off at the entrance. To my surprise, he later joined me inside, guiding me through the temple’s vibrant rituals and customs. Our journey continued to the Batu Caves. The Batu Caves are a series of caves that you have to climb 272 colorful steps to reach. There are several temples located within the caves. I soon learned that my visit coincided with the Thaipusam Festival and an estimation of 1 million visitors to come. Unfortunately, due to the abundance of people I did not make it up the steps to explore the caves; however, I was still able to experience the cultural celebration.
Visiting Tugu Negara, a national monument dedicated to those who fought for Malaysia’s freedom, was a poignant moment. Of course, no visit to Kuala Lumpur would be complete without a stop at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Afterward, we explored more of the city, culminating in a return to the hotel for the night.
Worn out from a full day of exploration, I found solace in the executive lounge, enjoying drinks and dinner before retiring to my room. With an early flight the next morning, I packed my belongings, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences. Kuala Lumpur, with its unfinished business, left an indelible mark, promising a return to delve even deeper into its rich tapestry.
This looks amazing and I wish I could have been on this trip!