Arrival in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Our flight arrived in Hong Kong around 4:45am for a three hour layover. For long flights, Cathay Pacific is a great company to fly with – we had our own screens with a wide range of TV, movies, documentaries, art films, etc. to choose from – as well as blankets, pillows, refreshments, etc. without additional charge.  Ian and I were lucky to get three seats to ourselves which was great for curling up to sleep. However, it was freezing the entire flight and my two blankets hardly kept me warm. The food was decent – we received two full meals and then snacks in between (Ramen like noodles and sandwiches).

The HK airport was deserted when we arrived but quickly filled up. There were lots of stores, clean bathrooms, and plenty of places to get refreshments, including a STARBUCKS! We passed the time easily. The flight from HK to KL wasn’t as pleasant as our first – it was cramped, the lady beside me was sound asleep and kept leaning on me, and it was very hot!! But we arrived here in KL safe and sound. Getting through the KL airport was relatively smooth – immigration didn’t ask us any questions and we got a 90 day visa stamp without saying a word. They did request a fingerprint scan from me – probably because my passport photo looks nothing like me. We took the KLIA Express train which was about 25 minutes, 35 RM, and stops at Sentral Station (their spelling). It was a bit of a maze at SS and we had to do some slugging outside to get to the monorail – maybe a 15 minute walk. I had sweat dripping down my neck and back. We took the monorail to Raja Chulan station which turned out to be directly across from Hotel Istana which was booked in advance.

The hotel is nice and we are very glad we splurged. There’s a tub and separate shower, nice big bed, and a TV with English shows. We unpacked, crashed for hours over the afternoon (having arrived at Istana around 2:30pm) and then went out for dinner. We ate just around the corner at Estana Garden Café: aloo gobi, butter chicken and rice. We were stuffed!  We explored the neighbourhood easily locating the huge Bukit Bintang mall with its many levels, and stores that you would find in Toronto (when we leave KL in June, I’ll definitely put aside a few days to shop!) Outside the mall was a lovely three tiered fountain that changes colours – it represents the three main cultures of Malaysia: Chinese, Indian, and Malay.      

There are several 7-11 stores in the neighbourhood so we visited one to stock up on water and a refreshing cold green tea. Off to bed!