KL- Keep a Lookout

Kuala Lumpur and I got off to a rocky start.


First off, the night train was sooooo cold that I shivered all night and managed only a few moments of shut eye. So note to self for the 3 night trains in China, buy a blanket!

We rolled into Kuala Lumpur Sentral at 7:30am. I disembarked the train, moved along with the other passengers (travel tip... when in Rome do as the Romans) but couldn't help but notice something missing... Customs?! Now don't get me wrong, did I miss the queueing, the questions, the bag search? No, I missed the stamp!!!! :(



Okay so no Malaysia stamp for me and I may be in this country illegally, but must press on. Next stop ATM to get some Ringgits, now I couldn't help but notice this man standing kind of next to me pretending to look at some slips in his pocket. My Spidy Senses were on alert. When it was my turn, I offered my spot to him, to his surprise. He looked around and mumbled... no go ahead. I then insisted he go before me and then waited until he left before completing my transaction. (Travel tip 2... be overly kind, it throws them off).

Now onto the ticket counter for my train ticket to the hostel. I had noticed my fare should be 1 Ringgit. So when I got 8 Ringgits back from my 10 note, I spoke up! (travel tip 3... count your change) as my hostel tried to short change me as well.


Okay all this and it was only 8am!

I have to say KL did improve. The Petronas Towers and the shopping at Central Market have put a smile on my face and have redeemed KL. The new knock-off Burberry handbag I bought in China Town (I love to haggle) has saved me $1600 US over the real version I saw at the airport. :D

Tonight onto Thailand! I was supposed to take another night train; however, the borders are extremely volatile right now and have been advised against. So I bought a last minute flight to Phuket (poo-get, not f*ck-it) a much safe port of entry.