Malaysia's capital is one of the most well-known cities in Southeast Asia thanks in part to the iconic Petronas Towers, which were the tallest structures in the world for several years. The towers were featured prominently in the Hollywood hit Entrapment, starring Sean Connery.
Just a century ago, the city of Kuala Lumpur was a small village. The discovery of oil in the South China Sea saw it proliferate in the 1970s. Malaysia is situated favorably on the Straits of Malacca, the busiest sea route globally, and the large number of ports made it an ideal trade location.
Today, Kuala Lumpur is a favorite destination for those who are visiting Thailand just across the border. The flight to Bangkok is short and provides the city with a steady flow of tourists year-round. If you're ready for your own exciting trip to Kuala Lumpur, be sure to purchase travel medical insurance. Doing so can help protect you from large bills in the event that your trip doesn't go as planned.
Kuala Lumpur Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Kuala Lumpur is a well-developed metropolis of seven million inhabitants. It is a wealthy nation and boasts top-notch public and private healthcare. There are world-class hospitals, but treatment is quite expensive. That is why it is best if you purchase travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Kuala Lumpur?
Malaysia does not require mandatory travel medical insurance. However, going without it can put you at risk of having to pay massive medical bills. Even a simple slip and fall could land you in an expensive hospital. It's important to mitigate the risk and purchase adequate insurance for your visit to Kuala Lumpur.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Kuala Lumpur?
The trip to Kuala Lumpur is delightful, and the food is delicious. But illnesses can strike at any time and leave you in the hospital. Even a sightseeing trip could turn into a disaster if you slip and fall. Excellent healthcare is available, but it will cost you a lot of money out of pocket. Be a smart tourist and purchase travel medical insurance so you can enjoy your trip without this worry.
Things to Do for Travelers in Kuala Lumpur
Walk through Kampung Baru
Almost all of Kuala Lumpur is a modern city. This neighborhood is what is left of the traditional architecture from decades ago. It is also regarded as a cultural hub.
The traditional two-story brick homes form a spectacular contrast to the glittering skyscrapers in the background. There are plenty of boutique shops in this part of Kuala Lumpur. There is no better place to look if you're seeking traditional artwork as a memory of your Southeast Asian trip.
Sample Street Food
Street food in Malaysia is a heavenly experience for your tastebuds. Nasi Lemak is something that you cannot afford to miss. This de facto national dish consists of rice cooked delicately in coconut milk and garnished with peanuts, anchovies, and eggs, paired with fried shrimp. Besides Nasi Lemak, Malaysia is well known for Satay, a variation of kebab made with the meat of lamb or giant prawn. Accompanied by seasoning and sour sauce, the recipe has spread across the world as a popular finger food.
Thean Hou Temple
A six-tiered pantheon dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu and numerous Bodhisattvas such as Guan Yin and Tian Hou, the Thean Hou is a famous tourist spot. It was quite recently built - no more than three decades ago - but has captured imaginations with its architecture, a synthesis of Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism. Filled with delicate ornate carvings and elaborate doorways, most of the temple is painted bright red, the color of good fortune in this part of the world. Main festivals include Vesak Day in April, when the Buddha attained enlightenment.
Visit Petronas Towers
Built by state petroleum giant Petronas, these 450-meter towers connected by a sky bridge are a magnet for visitors. The 88-story structure is occupied by Boeing, IBM, McKinsey, and its namesake, Petronas. The tower is home to an impressive art gallery, huge convention center, and a concert hall. The observation deck on level 86 provides you with a clear view of the straits and massive container ships that pass through it day and night.
Merdeka Square
Merdeka Square is in the city center. With a towering cathedral to one side, the green fields are a place to relax and unwind. On weekends the location is quite popular, and there are guided tours of the city that begin here.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is a safe city, but you have to be cautious. Visiting a different culture always requires education and understanding.
- The state religion of Malaysia is Islam. It is a multicultural nation, but traditional values are prevalent. Dress and act respectfully when in public.
- Drinking in public is not illegal, but it is must be done mindfully. Only purchase or imbibe in alcoholic beverages in establishments where they are legally sold.
- Traffic congestion in Kuala Lumpur is serious. Be sure to take this into account when planning travel time to the airport or when you have a reservation.
- Watch out for taxi fraud. Some cab drivers can route passengers all around the city, even for a trip of just a couple of miles. Utilize a program like Google Maps to assist you.
- Like in all large cities, it's important to look after your credit card when making a purchase. If possible, pay using a chip-enabled card. Otherwise, swipe the card yourself and never allow it to be taken out of sight.
Before You Travel to Kuala Lumpur - Do This
- Always keep your travel documents secure. Losing them can be a tremendous hassle.
- Exercise restraint and caution to protect yourself from unnecessary risks
- Purchase travel medical insurance to protect your bank account in case of the unexpected.