Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Kuala Lumpur mixes modern skyscrapers with street markets and old colonial buildings. Violent crime is rare, but watch for pickpockets around Batu Caves and KL Sentral station.
• English gets you by in shopping areas and hotels, though less so in older neighborhoods. Malaysia is Muslim-majority, which means covering shoulders and knees helps you avoid unwanted attention.
• The MRT and LRT trains are clean and cheap - use them during the day, but Grab (the local Uber) is easier late at night. The KLCC and Bukit Bintang areas stay lit and busy into the evening.
• You'll see Tourist Police in white helmets around major spots - they speak English and are actually helpful. Food ranges from RM5 hawker stalls to expensive rooftop places, and eating alone doesn't get you second looks anywhere.

Malay is official, but English works in tourist areas, shopping districts, hotels, and with younger people. Emergency services (999) and Tourist Police (03-2149-6590) have English speakers. Most restaurant staff, Grab drivers, and service workers in central areas know at least basic English.

• Cover shoulders and knees, especially outside tourist areas. Tank tops and shorts are fine in malls and hotels but draw stares in traditional neighborhoods. Cover up completely for mosques or temples.
• Take off your shoes before entering homes, some shops, and all religious sites. Use your right hand for eating and handing things to people - the left hand is considered unclean here.
• English works in most of Kuala Lumpur, especially with younger people and in tourist spots. Knowing 'terima kasih' (thank you) and 'maaf' (excuse me) is nice but not required.
• During Ramadan (dates change yearly), don't eat or drink in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants close during the day, but night markets get busier after sunset.
• Keep public affection minimal. Holding hands is usually okay, but kissing can offend people, especially outside modern areas like KLCC.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Emergency Services (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 999. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• The MRT and LRT trains are clean and connect most tourist areas. They run 6am to midnight and cost RM1-3 per ride. Some lines have women-only coaches during rush hour.
• Download Grab (the local Uber) before you arrive and add your credit card. It's safer than flagging down random taxis. All rides are tracked so you can share your location. Hotel taxis are fine, but avoid unmarked cars on the street.
• KLCC and Bukit Bintang are walkable during the day, but sidewalks elsewhere can be uneven or nonexistent. The heat and humidity hit hard - 32°C/89°F is common - so keep walks short and bring water. Stick to main roads with streetlights after dark.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Kuala Lumpur with local guides and curated experiences.