Home
Away
with Robert Walshe www.robertwalshe.com
Holiday Hotspot – Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Kuala Lumpur capital of Malaysia can be described as a cross between Singapore and Bangkok on a smaller scale. It has the efficiency of Singapore and the rough edges of Bangkok, creating its own unique charm. English is widely spoken and the streets tend to be safe due to the heavy police presence in most tourist areas. Petronas Towers are probably
the most famous and frequently photographed Malaysian landmark. You can queue for a ticket to visit the sky bridge but you do not really need to - the best place to admire the construction is at ground level from a spot in the adjoining park known as KLCC. The Royal Selangor Visitor Centre is also consistently ranked as one of the top things to do in the city. An equally famous
Petronas Towers Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
historic landmark is the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station built in 1910 in Anglo-Mughal architectural style and designed by AB Hubback who was also the architect for many other famous buildings in Malaysia. If you are willing to venture out of the city visit Batu Caves Temple however be prepared to climb a lot of stairs in the soaring heat! Situated on the south-western coast of the Malay Peninsula, Melaka is one of the fourteen states in the country. Bestowed as one of the UNESCO world heritage sites, Melaka has numerous architectural landmarks inherited from decades of colonisation by the Portuguese, Dutch, British and Chinese. Melaka began as the Melaka Sultanate with its roots from Sumatera. It became one of the most important trading ports of the region. The Arabs, British Chinese, Dutch, Indians, Japanese and Portuguese traders have left their imprints on Melakan culture. KL is also a shopper’s paradise. From world-renowned designer labels to authentic made-in-Malaysia items, the highly competitive environment that exists among traders benefits shoppers. Bargain hunters can also test their skills at any one of the famous city night markets. KL has
Shangri-la Lobby Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
first-rate hotels, excellent and varied cuisines, a lively blend of cultures, architectural styles that range from Moorish to Tudor to modern, a generally efficient infrastructure, and some of the lowest prices of any major Asian city. Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is an award winning city retreat set in the sought-after Golden Triangle district with resort style amenities including a spacious decked swimming pool, tennis court and manicured gardens only a five minute walk from the famous Petronas Towers. The lobby makes quite the impression; soaring ceilings, sweeping staircases, masses of marble, cascading crystal chandeliers, elaborate floral displays and a giant glitzy fountain. Oversized guest suites are fitted with the highest quality luxury bedding and amenities. A real urban
Asian oasis, other luxurious facilities include “Chi” spa where a range of rejuvenating treatments can be enjoyed, as well as the fitness centre, sauna, steam rooms, Jacuzzi and hydro pool. Ideally located and offering a range of luxurious facilities. www. shangri-la.com Turkish airlines offer super connections from Dublin via Istanbul to Kuala Lumpur. On long-haul flights, first, business & economy class passenger’s feast on authentic Turkish and international dishes and the “in flight” experience leaves other carriers trailing far behind. The CIPR business lounge for passengers connecting at Istanbul to KL will leave you breathless and for me is the finest of its kind in the world. For best fares visit www.turkishairlines.com
Robert Walshe is a travel broadcaster with Q Radio in Northern Ireland. He is also Travel Editor for River Media newspaper titles across the island of Ireland.