Where to Stay and What to Do | Travel + Leisure
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Where to Stay and What to Do

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WHEN TO GO

The city is reliably hot and wet—with temperatures staying between 80 and 90 degrees—nearly all year. March through October tends to be somewhat drier, though no less warm.

WHERE TO STAY

Carcosa Seri Negara
At the former residence of the colonial governor of the Malay States, each of the 13 suites, set within mature tropical gardens, comes with butler service—and there's a great English afternoon tea. Taman Tasik Perdana; 60-3/2295-0888; www.carcosa.com.my; suites from $300.

Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
You can't beat the location of this property: it's adjacent to the 88-story Petronas Twin Towers and overlooks 50 acres of greenery. Kuala Lumpur City Centre; 60-3/2179-8818; www.mandarinoriental.com/kualalumpur; doubles from $200.

Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel
This 921-room monolith has an Olympic-size swimming pool and a lobby sparkling with black marble and crystal chandeliers. Jalan Ampang at Jalan Sultan Ismail; 60-3/2162-2233; www.renaissance-kul.com; doubles from $65.

Hilton Kuala Lumpur
The Hilton is one of two hotel towers within walking distance of Stesen Sentral, or Central Station (which is just 28 minutes on the express train from Kuala Lumpur International Airport). The 35-story hotel has seven stylish restaurants, including Senses, and two bars. 3 Jalan Stesen Sentral; 800/445-8667 or 60-3/2264-2264; www.hilton.com; doubles from $150.

WHERE TO EAT

Senses
Astonishing creations from the originator of Asian-fusion cuisine, Malaysian-born chef Cheong Lieuw. Studio at Hilton Kuala Lumpur; 3 Jalan Stesen Sentral; 60-3/2264-2264; dinner for two $100.

Third Floor Restaurant
Modern haute cuisine with a stunning degustation menu. JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur; 183 Jalan Bukit Bintang; 60-3/2141-3363; dinner for two $120.

Alexis Bistro & Wine Bar
Located near major embassies, Alexis has a clientele that ranges from diplomats to local hipsters. The wine list is extensive; the menu features Italian and Asian dishes. Every Friday and Saturday night, live performers bring on the jazz and Latin rhythms. Great Eastern Mall; 303 Jalan Ampang; 60-3/4260-2288; dinner for two $50.

Bijan
A gem in the old part of Kuala Lumpur. Dine on rich traditional Malay cuisine, alfresco on a lush tropical patio or in a private dining room. 3 Jalan Ceylon; 60-3/2031-3575; dinner for two $30.

Old China Café
Set in a turn-of-the-last-century Chinese guildhall and furnished in period style, this café-restaurant serves tamarind- based dishes favored by the Straits Chinese. 11 Jalan Balai Polis; 60-3/2072-5915; dinner for two $20.

WHAT TO SEE

Petronas Twin Towers
One of the biggest malls in Southeast Asia. Enough said. Kuala Lumpur City Centre; www.petronastwintowers.com.

Menara Kuala Lumpur
A huge tower built on a hill that hovers over the city, offering the best views. Bukit Nanas; open daily, 9 a.m–10 p.m. Jalan Punchak at Jalan P. Ramlee; 60-3/2020-5444; www.menarakl.com.my.

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
A wonderful display of Islamic culture and art. Don't miss the excellent Middle Eastern restaurant. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Jalan Lembah Perdana; 60-3/2274-2020; www.iamm.org.my.

Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens
Lush tropical landscaping dotted with lakes. Check out the nearby Orchid Farm for myriad varieties of the flower, and the covered bird and butterfly sanctuaries just around the corner. Jalan Perdana; 60-3/2273-5423.

Chinatown
All-day markets with vendors selling everything from DVD's to handbags. Jalan Petaling, Chowkit area.

Thean Hou Temple (Buddhist)
65 Pesiaran Ludah.

National Mosque (Masjid Negara)
50480 Jalan Perdana.

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