We Never Listen to Our Own Advice

We don't like spending precious travel time in big cities - it's something on which both Shirley and I agree. We realize that sometimes it is a logistical necessity, especially when it comes to flights, but our most enjoyable experiences have always come in small towns or national parks and reserves. Yet here we find ourselves in Kuala Lumpur for three days, struggling to make interesting and unique memories.

In front of the one-time tallest buildings in the world, the Petronas Towers

I'm willing to bear full responsibility for this little travel mistake - I think it's because when I was last in KL (back in 1995, admittedly), the city retained a certain colonial charm. There were still tree-lined streets to protect you from the searing heat as you strolled through a city reinventing itself. 

But over the past two decades Malaysians have shown themselves completely willing to turn their back on history (tear everything down, including traditional and historically significant structures) and embrace a more futuristic vision (build shiny new high-rises and mega malls everywhere) as they move forward. Not complaining, but that's just the way it goes. I guess I didn't recognize the inevitability of this progress and the impact it would have on the travel appeal of the city.

A covered air-conditioned walkway connects several key city sites - thank you Malaysian futuristic visionaries!

So I haven't bothered including much in the way of pictures, as there aren't a lot worth showing. We've spent our time in a pretty impressive Science World, going to the movie theatre, and generally escaping into malls and food courts. That's not especially attention grabbing - as it has a familiar resemblance to what we might do in any city, including Vancouver. 

It's worth noting, however, that movies are cheap here and the seats much more plush and comfortable than back home. We did enjoy ourselves today - don't get me wrong - but we'll try to do a little better tomorrow and the next day.

I'll take comfort in the notion that even a bad day travelling is better than the best day at work.