In the YouTube vlog "VLOG in Malaysia | MUST Watch before you travel! Biggest Surprise Trip of them All," the hosts take viewers on a whirlwind journey through Kuala Lumpur (KL), offering insights into what makes Malaysia such an unexpectedly amazing travel destination. From luxury stays to incredible street food, this vlog showcases the country's unique blend of modernity and tradition. Here’s a summary of their experience:
1. Arrival in Kuala Lumpur
Upon arrival in Kuala Lumpur after a delayed flight, the vloggers were impressed by the modern and clean airport, typical of many in Asia. A tip for frequent travelers is to take advantage of a Priority Pass, which provides access to some of the world’s best lounges.
2. Luxury on a Budget
One of the biggest surprises was the affordable luxury available in Malaysia. The vloggers stayed at the Ritz-Carlton in KL for just $155 per night, booked with points through Chase Rewards. They gave viewers a tour of their spacious, high-end room, complete with a foyer, two showers, and a massive bathtub—amenities you’d expect to pay much more for in the U.S.
3. Street Food Heaven
KL’s famous Jalan Alor Food Street was a highlight of their trip. They arrived around midnight to find the street still bustling with activity and packed with food vendors. The vloggers were surprised by the mix of modern city vibes and traditional street food, likening the atmosphere to a blend of New York and Japan. Dishes like spicy grilled stingray and Thai coconut desserts were among their favorites, with prices as low as 8 USD for a full meal.
4. Exploring KL: Day 2
On day two, they highlighted how hot Kuala Lumpur gets during the day, which drives many locals to the air-conditioned malls. The vloggers visited the well-known restaurant chain, Madam Kwan’s, for traditional Malaysian dishes like Char Kway Teow and coconut rice with curry chicken, praising the high quality and authentic flavors.
5. Relaxing at an Urban Onsen
They then relaxed at a popular onsen, not in the mountains but inside a modern mall. This highly-rated spot provided a relaxing break before they continued their food tour, sampling colorful steamed buns with unique fillings.
6. Batu Caves & Scenic Spots
The vloggers made a trip to the famous Batu Caves, easily accessible by an affordable Uber ride. Batu Caves is a popular Hindu temple and one of Malaysia’s iconic landmarks. They were struck by the beauty of the rainbow-colored stairs leading up to the caves and enjoyed exploring the vibrant surroundings.
7. Durian Delights
A staple of any trip to Southeast Asia, the vloggers indulged in durian, a divisive but beloved fruit in the region. They tried durian ice cream and the classic Cendol dessert, a shaved ice treat with palm sugar, coconut milk, and durian. For durian lovers, KL offers plenty of opportunities to sample this strong-smelling fruit.
8. Petronas Towers
Although they didn’t get to the top of the Petronas Towers, they enjoyed the views from outside this iconic landmark. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance to go up the towers. They wrapped up their day exploring the surrounding park and water fountain area, soaking in the city’s beauty.
9. Night Market Finale
Their final night in KL ended with another visit to the vibrant night markets, where they indulged in some last-minute bites before wrapping up their trip.
Conclusion: An Underrated Travel Destination
The vloggers were genuinely surprised by how underrated Kuala Lumpur is as a travel destination, especially for Western tourists. With its mix of luxury, affordability, modern conveniences, and vibrant street culture, Malaysia offers something for every type of traveler. The vlog serves as a testament to the country's hidden charm and highly recommends visiting KL for an unforgettable experience.
If you're looking to plan a trip, check out their Taiwan vlog for more travel inspiration.