Kuala Lumpur – A City to Love or Hate

After a less-than-perfect introduction to Malaysia, I arrived in Kuala Lumpur worn out and demotivated. If I had reached the city without the incident at the land order, I might have actually enjoyed my time there. However, because of the prejudice I faced, I entered Kuala Lumpur with a bias that was hard to shake off.

And unfortunately, that preceded every interaction I later came to have during my stay.

Thean Hou Temple Temple Kuala Lumpur

I would say that I spent two days in the city but in reality, I was there for five. My initial plans had me spending two days in Penang, before commuting to Kuala Lumpur for the remainder of my time. The border situation set me back by a day, eventually disrupting my plans to the point where it no longer made sense to try to get to Penang.

But it wasn’t for the lack of trying. After finding my way from the airport to KL Sentral station, I attempted to buy a train ticket to Penang. Unfortunately, the seats were sold out for the day and the next one too. I took that as a blessing in disguise and a sign to slow down, after all, Penang was not a “must-visit” destination for me.

I cancelled my previous reservations without issues (thanks to the JEN Penang and Booking.com teams) and booked a taxi to the Santa Grand Signature Hotel.

Visiting Kuala Lumpur – Where to Stay

The Santa Grand Signature Hotel, located in the city centre, proved to be a suitable base for my time there. It wasn’t particularly close to any of the attractions I wanted to see, but it wasn’t too far out either. The hotel offered views of the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower, although my room didn’t have these views.

Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Santa Grand Signature Hotel is located within walking distance of a metro station, restaurants and a mall…

As a solo traveller, I found my room to be quite adequate in terms of size and amenities offered. And what it lacked in views, it made up for in general comfort. That being said, if I ever returned to Kuala Lumpur, and the chances of that happening are very low, I might choose to stay in a different place. This apartment hotel caught my attention!

Anyway, with the first three days of my stay basically spent working and catching up on sleep, I set out to see what I could in the last two days.

Kuala Lumpur Central Market Things to do in KL

Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur

Visiting Kuala Lumpur – Things to Do in the City

While researching things to do in Kuala Lumpur, I came up with a shortlist that included visiting the Thean Hou Temple, the Moroccan Pavilion, Seri Gemilang Bridge, Putrajaya Mosque, Batu Caves and the Kuala Lumpur Forest Eco Park.

My first stop was the Thean Hou Temple and I got there using the Grab Taxi app.

Visiting Thean Hou Temple, Kuala Lumpur

The Thean Hou Temple is one of Malaysia’s most notable Chinese temples, featuring traditional Chinese architecture, including red pillars, golden roofs, and intricate carvings. I arrived at the temple quite early in the morning and spent some time watching as devotees made their way into the temple by kneeling, walking and bowing right from the entrance pathways.

I also took a walk around the garden, familiarizing myself with the different statues on the grounds. Eventually, I made my way into the temple, strolled around the premises for a while, and took a few photos before heading to my next destination.

Dress Code: What to Wear to Visit Thean Hou Temple

There is no dress code to visit this temple but as it is an active place of worship, it is advisable to dress more on the conservative side. A rule of thumb is to wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.

Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur Visa to Malaysia from Nigeria

Best Time to Visit Thean Hou Temple

The best time to visit the Thean Hou Temple is in the morning before 9 am when tour buses start to arrive. I am guessing that late afternoons and evenings will also be a good time to visit after the larger tour groups have left. And if you’d like to visit as part of an organized tour with a guide, here’s one to consider.

Next, I made my way to Putrajaya – which was a little far out of the city – to visit the Moroccan Pavilion and Putra Mosque. The Morrocan Pavilion was closed for renovations, so I spent my time exploring the gardens and then walking over to the Putra Mosque and exploring the environs.

Finally, I ended the day by visiting KLCC Park.

Visiting Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur

The next morning, I set out early to visit Batu Caves, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur. But these limestone caves and cave temples, believed to be around 400 million years old, are much more than just a tourist attraction.

Like the Thean Hou Temple, the Batu Caves Temples are an active place of worship for Hindu devotees.

Batu Caves Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Standing at the entrance to the main cave is the temple’s most prominent figure, an impressive 140-foot-tall statue of Lord Murugan, a major Hindu deity. Beside the statue are a flight of 272 colourful steps that lead up to the caves.

Inside the caves are more chambers and temples, some of which are open to visitors to explore. I remember gazing up at the impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations within the cave, only for a drop of water to fall directly into my right eye!

I took that as my cue to leave and headed back down the stairs, just as the notorious and mischievous monkeys of Batu Caves began to awake.

Dress Code: What to Wear to Visit Batu Caves

In general, ladies are advised to wear clothes that cover their knees and shoulders. I had read that the staff make rigorous checks to enforce the dress code, so I brought a scarf with me. I used it when I ascended the stairs, although no one enforced this while I was there.

PS: Sarongs are available for rent at the base of the stairs for the people who need them.

Best Time to Visit Batu Caves

The best time to visit Batu Caves is early in the morning or late afternoon and evening. This way, you will not have to deal with the crowd, as well as the mid-day heat, which can be quite brutal in Kuala Lumpur.

Up next on my itinerary for the day was a visit to the KL Forest Eco Park but I made the rookie mistake of not confirming its opening hours and found out, only when I got there, that it was closed on Fridays.

I can’t say that I was disappointed as I made my way down to Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown and Central Market. Here, I walked around some more, and did a bit of window shopping and some people-watching, before ducking into Leaf & Co. Cafe for a refreshing mid-morning snack.

Afterwards, I made my way back to KLCC Park and had lunch at the Nandos restaurant inside the mall. And with that, my visit to Kuala Lumpur came to end. The next day, I caught an early morning flight back to Nairobi via Doha.


How to Apply for a Visa to Malaysia

Nigerian passport holders require a visa to enter Malaysia. I have written a detailed article covering the process of applying for the Malaysian evisa. You may find it here.

Is Kuala Lumpur Safe?

I would say that I had no major safety concerns in Kuala Lumpur. I will admit that I had some moments of paranoia while walking in search of a pharmacy and then dinner on my first night out but I chucked this up to my initial negative experience and bias.

Oaxaca Centro Colourful buildings

stay safe while you travel

Protect yourself from the unexpected while you travel by purchasing insurance coverage. I use SafetyWing, which is affordable and covers several travel-related risks, such as unexpected illness or injury, eligible hospital expenses, lost luggage and more. Click here to purchase a cover for your travel and visa application needs.

In addition, I had read a few travellers’ accounts of (petty) crime in the city which kept me a little on the edge. Still, I lived in Lagos and am now in Nairobi, so I try to be as street-smart and hyper-aware as I possibly can be, no matter where I travel to.

How to get to Kuala Lumpur from Singapore

As Singapore and Malaysia are close to each other, it makes perfect sense to visit both countries on a single trip from Lagos or Nairobi. The fastest way to travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur is via a 1-hr direct flight into the city. There are several flights a day that make the trip and a few affordable carriers. I flew with Jetstar Airways and enjoyed the service.

Things to do in Singapore Gardens by the Bay Lily Pond

Of course, a road trip is also possible between both countries, however, if you are travelling with a Nigerian passport (I’d also be conscious as an African passport holder), you will most likely be turned away. It does not matter if you have the correct entry documents. Read about my experience here.

If you must attempt a land border passage, I advise that you enter Malaysia first (via KLIA) and travel into Singapore.

Visiting Kuala Lumpur Black Traveller

Have you been to Kuala Lumpur before? Tell me about the highlights and lowlights of your visit.

And if you haven’t visited, I hope this article does not discourage you from doing so. Remember that my views and experiences are subjective. I am hoping they give you an idea of what to expect if you plan to visit (as a Nigerian traveller) and how to prevent a bad experience or mitigate the effects of one.

Let me know what you think!

2 comments

  1. You actually did have a good time. Who would have thought? Glad to see the border experience didn’t ruin the rest of the trip for you. Love your outfits!

    1. Thanks, Favour. Ultimately, it wasn’t a terrible experience once I got into the country.

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Aesthetically pleasing spaces in Kenya 🍂🦒
Aesthetically pleasing spaces in Kenya 🍂🦒
17 hours ago
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Kenya had dropped the paid ETA requirement for most Africans, including Nigerians. 💃🏾🎉

And in celebration of that, I'm sharing some of my favourite places to include in your Kenyan holiday itinerary!

Will you be visiting or have you been to any of these places?
Kenya had dropped the paid ETA requirement for most Africans, including Nigerians. 💃🏾🎉 And in celebration of that, I'm sharing some of my favourite places to include in your Kenyan holiday itinerary! Will you be visiting or have you been to any of these places?
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This lodge in Taita-Taveta was such a great last-minute find for me!
___________________

I needed a quick break from Nairobi and thought to visit Diani and Tsavo. While finding accommodation in Diani was fairly easy, I struggled to find a place that fit my schedule, budget, and preference in the Voi/Tsavo area.

When I stumbled upon The Hildana Lodge, I couldn't be happier. Luckily, they had availability for the exact dates I wanted, a resident's rate, and no single supplement!

I stayed here for 2 nights but could have easily stayed longer! This place is magical, and I can't wait to return! ✨️
This lodge in Taita-Taveta was such a great last-minute find for me! ___________________ I needed a quick break from Nairobi and thought to visit Diani and Tsavo. While finding accommodation in Diani was fairly easy, I struggled to find a place that fit my schedule, budget, and preference in the Voi/Tsavo area. When I stumbled upon The Hildana Lodge, I couldn't be happier. Luckily, they had availability for the exact dates I wanted, a resident's rate, and no single supplement! I stayed here for 2 nights but could have easily stayed longer! This place is magical, and I can't wait to return! ✨️
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As someone who enjoys travelling and pursuing a fulfilling career, I don't believe that you have to give up one for the other. ✈️🍂✨️

You can maintain a healthy travel life without forfeiting a career you love, and here's one of the best ways to do so ⤵️

Taking advantage of public holidays, combined with your vacation days. For example, there's a public holiday coming up next month.

It'll be a 2-day holiday, and if you take only 2 days off work, you'll get 6 vacation days! - perfect for this "Beach and Bush" holiday in Kenya! 🐚🐘🌊

Work-life balance is key, so find ways to do the things that are important to you now that you can!💙
As someone who enjoys travelling and pursuing a fulfilling career, I don't believe that you have to give up one for the other. ✈️🍂✨️ You can maintain a healthy travel life without forfeiting a career you love, and here's one of the best ways to do so ⤵️ Taking advantage of public holidays, combined with your vacation days. For example, there's a public holiday coming up next month. It'll be a 2-day holiday, and if you take only 2 days off work, you'll get 6 vacation days! - perfect for this "Beach and Bush" holiday in Kenya! 🐚🐘🌊 Work-life balance is key, so find ways to do the things that are important to you now that you can!💙
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Weekends in Kenya that look like this! 🐘💙🦒

How wonderful!
Weekends in Kenya that look like this! 🐘💙🦒 How wonderful!
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Here's what you can expect when you ride the premium class train from Nairobi to Mombasa and vice versa 🚅

It's a slow but scenic ride to the coast, but I love it and rather prefer it to flying. ✨️

PS: If you want great views of Tsavo National Park as you pass through (Nairobi > Mombasa), sit on the left side of the train (i.e., even numbered seats)

But be aware that some seats have partial window views. Seats 26, 21, 25, 15, and 6 are great!(Nairobi > Mombasa)

Seat on the opposite side on the Mombasa > Nairobi train. I couldn't keep track of all the good seats on this train 🥹.

The train also has a first and economy class coach, which are significantly cheaper than premium class. And once you're back in Nairobi, all "premium services end" 🤭😋

Have you gone on this train before? What was your experience like? 💬

Are team train 🚆 or flight ✈️?
Here's what you can expect when you ride the premium class train from Nairobi to Mombasa and vice versa 🚅 It's a slow but scenic ride to the coast, but I love it and rather prefer it to flying. ✨️ PS: If you want great views of Tsavo National Park as you pass through (Nairobi > Mombasa), sit on the left side of the train (i.e., even numbered seats) But be aware that some seats have partial window views. Seats 26, 21, 25, 15, and 6 are great!(Nairobi > Mombasa) Seat on the opposite side on the Mombasa > Nairobi train. I couldn't keep track of all the good seats on this train 🥹. The train also has a first and economy class coach, which are significantly cheaper than premium class. And once you're back in Nairobi, all "premium services end" 🤭😋 Have you gone on this train before? What was your experience like? 💬 Are team train 🚆 or flight ✈️?
6 days ago
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The most relaxing staycation ever! Coastal vibes in Diani Beach and a wonderful safari in Taita-Taveta county! 🐚🐘

This trip was so easy to plan and embark upon from Nairobi. I travelled by rail from Nairobi to Mombasa and then to Diani. 🌊

On my return leg, I stopped in Voi and transferred to a super gorgeous lodge, where I spent the weekend enjoying massages, spotting elephants 🐘 and giraffes 🦒, and just having a swell and relaxing time!

Sharing details on my blog and IG stories!✨️
The most relaxing staycation ever! Coastal vibes in Diani Beach and a wonderful safari in Taita-Taveta county! 🐚🐘 This trip was so easy to plan and embark upon from Nairobi. I travelled by rail from Nairobi to Mombasa and then to Diani. 🌊 On my return leg, I stopped in Voi and transferred to a super gorgeous lodge, where I spent the weekend enjoying massages, spotting elephants 🐘 and giraffes 🦒, and just having a swell and relaxing time! Sharing details on my blog and IG stories!✨️
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The Best of Both Worlds! 🥰

Just took the SGR again, and I got to try out the Premium Class coach - I loved the experience!

I'll be sharing all about this experience in my next blog post on www.travelwithapen.com -  what to expect from this train ride, the best seats for unobstructed views and elephant sightings in Tsavo National Park, and notable changes in the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and Diani!

#diani #dianibeachkenya #sgr #railtravel #tsavo #tembeakenya
The Best of Both Worlds! 🥰 Just took the SGR again, and I got to try out the Premium Class coach - I loved the experience! I'll be sharing all about this experience in my next blog post on www.travelwithapen.com - what to expect from this train ride, the best seats for unobstructed views and elephant sightings in Tsavo National Park, and notable changes in the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and Diani! #diani #dianibeachkenya #sgr #railtravel #tsavo #tembeakenya
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Bougainvillea in full bloom in Nairobi 🌸, always a highlight of our strolls!
Bougainvillea in full bloom in Nairobi 🌸, always a highlight of our strolls!
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