Oudayas Kasbah near Rabat's nedina has kept its old cannons placed on a bastion. Its massive gate is entirely carved, while its blue and white walls give it a Mediterranean atmosphere. Cobbled streets lead to the El Atiqa Mosque, the oldest in the city, and on to the old semaphore platform. The view from here, or the terrace of the neighbouring Café Maure, is splendid: Rabat, nearby Salé and Bouregreg river meeting the ocean. The Oudayas Palace, further on up, which now houses the National Museum, has conserved its markedly simple and balanced original decor. The Andalusian Gardens below are a heaven of peace full of fruit trees, rose-laurels and cascades of bougainvilleas.

Built by a Chinese millionaire in 1928, the palace changed residents multiple times since. Today, the palace is the official residence of the monarch of Malaysia. Unfortunately, inside access is not permitted to tourists, but a glance into the compound at the ornate golden domes is worth the short drive from KL's city centre.

The United States naval base at Pearl Harbor was surprised by a Japanese military strike on the morning of December 7, 1941: all eight U.S. Navy battleships were damaged, more than 2,000 Americans lost their lives, and this very attack led to the American involvement in World War II. Today, a memorial reminds of those who died in the assault, while two museums and outdoor exhibits present the historical happenings and their backgrounds. The visitor centre in general also features exhibits and interpretive programs for other Pacific National Parks: Kalaupapa National Historical Park on the island of Molokai, American Memorial Park in Saipan, and War in the Pacific National Historical Park in Guam.

Located just outside Kuala Lumpur's city centre, this six-tiered Chinese temple honours Mazu, the revered sea goddess. Since its opening in 1989, the active worship site has drawn visitors with its striking architectural features, from the grand prayer hall altars to the tiered roofs adorned with intricate carvings. The temple is open to tourists, but expect devotees filling the temple, burning incense offerings and praying. You can explore independently or join organised tours to appreciate this lesser-known gem's cultural and artistic significance.