www.lastminute.com.au
Okay, we admit it. The lastminute lovelies are more than a little bit in love with KL. From laksa to Lanvin, TopShop to temples, Malaysia’s buzzing multicultural metropolis really does have it all.
One of Malaysia’s most famous exports and favourite of Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw no less, Jimmy Choo, provided us with his recommendations for a KL trip to remember:
Pampering galore: After a day of sightseeing, you deserve some pampering. Kuala Lumpur’s fish spas are an … unusual way to give your feet some much needed attention. It’s very tickly but VERY effective.
Lovelies tip – Persevere! By the end you’ll be guiding the fishies to missed spots … or maybe that’s just me.
Shoe shopping: Everyone asks where to get Kuala Lumpur’s best shoes and of course, I’m a little biased. I recommend the Jimmy Choo store in Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers. Fion Poon in Central Market is also a fab spot for something a little less pricey.
Lovelies tip – Keep smiling and bargain hard at markets. It’s a game you should play.
Cooking is the new black: If you want to wow your friends at home you can’t beat a Malaysian cooking class at Bayan Indah cooking school – it’s an unforgettable and very worthwhile experience.
Lovelies tip – You can pick up great Malaysian serving dishes at the markets to make your experience at home authentic.
A meal to impress: For a night to remember, I take guests to Le Yen at the Ritz Carlton, which is hands down one of Kuala Lumpur’s most stylish and unique restaurants. You must start with a drink in the Ritz’s cosy lounge bar.
Lovelies tip – Be wary in heels! Sidewalks in Asia can be dangerous… You don’t want to trip out of the Ritz after a few champas!
If you’re feeling thirsty: Another watering hole with wow factor is Luna Bar, an ultra chic roof-top bar with an illuminated pool in the centre. You can’t beat the views of the city at night… just gorgeous.
Lovelies tip – It can get really muggy in KL especially in rooftop bars. Pack face powder so you can relax and enjoy the view.
Have credit, will travel
If we’ve inspired you to consider KL, might we suggest coinciding your visit with the major shopping sales period?
Let’s face it, the opportunity to incorporate a good dose of retail therapy is often a prerequisite for a happy holiday. If this is your kind of thinking too then the Malaysia’s Mega Sale Carnival from 15 June to 31 August in 2012 should be in your diary.
It’s the granddaddy of sales, and the best time for the committed shopper to head to KL and snap-up lust-worthy brands such as Gucci, Armani and Fendi. Stores outdo each other’s price cuts and offer shoppers ridiculously generous gifts with purchases. What’s not to love?
Need to justify the splurge?
With the Aussie dollar going strong, the increased bang-for-your-travel-buck is giving people a greater opportunity to make overseas holidays a more frequent occurrence. Let’s face it, saving money on flights and accommodation provides extra cash to put towards your shopping budget and that is always welcome news!
Kirsty’s top KL hotel picks
Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur
Why she loves it: This hotel offers some of KL’s largest rooms starting at 42 square metres including walk-in wardrobes to hang all your purchases and have your own Sex and the City moment.
The Westin Kuala Lumpur
Why she loves it: Six restaurants to choose from… need I say more?
Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur
Why she loves it: Want to be pampered? Not only does the St Gregory Sanctuary have your usual day spa treatments, there is a specific foot massage room (perfect after a day of retail therapy!)
Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Why she loves it: Not only is the pool gorgeous and perfect for a refreshing and relaxing dip, the Poolside Terrace is an excellent venue for a casual cocktail and bar snacks.
Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur
Why she loves it: Being close to the train network makes this hotel super convenient for getting from the airport to your room with roll along luggage (and hauling back shopping bags).
