Kuala Lumpur

One of the original KL shopping malls, the upmarket KLCC has remained a shopper favourite for nearly two decades. It's set at the base of the iconic Petronas Towers and, by virtue of location, attracts large amounts of tourist traffic. There are, of course, all the usual mall trappings here, but standouts include the KLCC Garden, a sprawling green park with several dozen species of trees, a jogging track and a public swimming pool for kids, and its Lake Symphony, a fountain show featuring music and lights held here daily at 8pm, 9pm and 10pm. There are also lights-only shows at 7:30pm, 8:30pm and 9:30pm. There's also Aquaria, a world-class oceanarium, and a high-tech scientific discovery centre for kids and adults.

The final piece of KL's mall trifecta is Publika, one most favoured by a younger clientele and with a distinct taste for boutiques rather than international brand stores, although there is, of course, some of that here too. Come at the weekend to hit Publika's weekly Bazaar and Craft Market; BIG, 'Ben's Independent Grocer', also has a location here, and it's unanimously agreed upon as the best-stocked grocer in the city.

Also known as Little India, Jalan Masjid India is one of Kuala Lumpur’s busiest districts where locals and visitors look for affordable shopping. Here you’ll find stalls and shops selling daily essentials, fresh produce, clothing, and even roadside betel nuts, all set against the constant movement of people. Located close to the meeting point of the Klang and Gombak rivers, the area has been a hub of Indian-Muslim culture since the British colonial period. While modern developments have brought new facilities, the neighbourhood has retained much of its traditional character.

The historic Central Market dates back to 1888 and occupies a beautifully preserved building. This was originally a wet market, but is now more of a neat destination to shop for souvenirs, arts and crafts, including fashion and accessories. There is also a food court on site.

The oldest market in town is held at Petaling Street in Chinatown. Vendors begin peddling their wares already in the morning, but market reaches true fever pitch as the sun goes down. Haggling is a must and so is tasting the cooling longan drink at the corner stall.