Experience in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Jezz

What is it like to live in Kuala Lumpur? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Kuala Lumpur is easily one of the most diverse cities I've ever been in (not being bias even though it is my motherland, haha). It's filled with food, a cultural heaven and also more often than not, horrible traffic. I would definitely recommend to visit but to live in, it's very dependent on you as a person just as most other cities. The city itself has lots of sky rises and beautiful churches, temples and mosques. (Don't worry, we don't care if you're religious or not, as long as everyone respects one another :D) On the other hand, we also have lots of parks and beautiful forests.

What is the student lifestyle like in Kuala Lumpur?

Depends on who you mis around with. You eventually get to know which areas are filled with party people. hipsters and bookworms. There's something for everyone. Student lifestyle is great but we definitely don't have the most relaxing education system, in the sense that Asians just "love" getting tons of assignments and have long class hours.

How much does it cost to live in Kuala Lumpur?

Although it is a concrete jungle, prices may vary greatly whether you live close to the city centre or right outside. Anywhere from RM800 - RM5000 per month for a place. (This is an estimate in our currency as in fluctuates quite a bit :(

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Kuala Lumpur? Is there any advice you can give?

Not at all! They're everywhere! My advice would be that if you are a student from any Western or Middle Eastern country, 1000€ is an ABSURD amount to pay. Don't be fooled! Some Malaysians love to rip off foreigners, so be VERY VERY alert of rental prices. Look on local websites for cheap rental, that's the safest way to go. Or just ask me! haha

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

HEAVEN. Food here is the best I've had out of the 20+ different countries I've been to. Nasi Lemak, Nasi Kerabu, Penang Curry Mee, Lemang, Durian, Char Koay Teow, Sarawak Kolok Mee, Nyonya Cuisine, Roti Tisu, etc The list goes on! Best part is, if you're not particularly adventurous, there's a ton of international food you can get in every corner of the city! I can't even begin toname my favourite dishes. It's endless.

What places would you recommend visiting in Kuala Lumpur?

1. Pasar Seni
2. Merdeka Square
3. Batu Caves
4. One Utama Shopping Mall (5th largest worldwide guysss)
5. Pasar Malam Taman Connaught
6. Changkat (fiesta)
7. Jamek Mosque
8. KLCC Twin Towers
(Mother Nature stuff are mostly in other states of Malaysia though!)

Is it good to eat out in Kuala Lumpur? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

If you're paying RM30 for a dish, it ain't local and it ain't good. That's the rule. It's good to eat out and I always recommend that my friends try street food, BUT, it really does test how good your digestive system is... hahaha. Too many places to list but I guess of the many there's Devi's Corner, Village Park Nasi Lemak, XO Fish Head.

Is the nightlife good in Kuala Lumpur? Where is good to go?

There's a couple of hotspots in KL, Changkat as mentioned before is where locals and foreigners alike all crowd towards. Bangsar area is always happening as well.

What advice would you give future students heading to Kuala Lumpur?

Be open to try everything! Be aware of the different cultures and religions there are here, people are friendly but some may be shy, also, don't pay a ridiculous price for rent! And give yourself the opportunity to visit other parts of Malaysia!