Dr. web

Kuala Lumpur is a haven for backpackers from the US seeking destinations for vacationing. One of the plus points of KL is that foreign currencies such as the Pound Sterling and US Dollar are much preferred over the Malaysian Ringgit. Other advantages include the prevalence of English as a spoken language, the low crime rate and the minimal expenses incurred for travel.

Backpacking in KL can be more fun if one were to plan the trip so as to ensure a cheap and affordable trip. One could opt for low-cost carriers that can transport one to KL from anywhere in the world at greatly reduced costs. Apart from the mode of travel, one could save money by booking a few months in advance, which also ensure that ticket prices are low.

The next consideration for reducing expenditure is to choose a location for putting up. Chinatown, whose heart is Jalan Petaling (Petaling Street) and Brickfields, near Stesen Sentral (Central Station) are the two most preferred places for backpackers to stay. Accommodation in these areas is quite cheap, with a wide range of low-priced and budget hotels available. Of these, Jalan Petaling is a better choice considering the greater options of going out, evening activities and good food.

Eating out in KL is also a cakewalk, with numerous joints offering inexpensive but healthy eating options. One can get everything from local fare to fast food as well as from Indian dishes to world cuisine. ‘Roti canai’, a type of pancake, washed down with ‘teh tarik’, literally ‘pulled tea’, is the recommended diet for a backpacker who wants to spend less and tramp around more!