Kuala Lumpur

Worlds collide in Kuala Lumpur, a teeming tropical centre where glitzy malls rub shoulders with dusty markets, grand old colonial buildings share city blocks with 21st century skyscrapers, and innocuous suburban streets hide exclusive nightclubs and world-class restaurants. Don't be surprised if you find the place a little disorienting: this young city is still defining itself, and the pace at which it is changing is enough to make the most seasoned traveller dizzy.

Of course, this state of flux is half the Malaysian capital's charm. Ever since it was carved from the jungle as a tin mining outpost in the 1850s, KL's residents have been fighting against the heat and humidity (not to mention the forces of British colonialism and Japanese imperialism) to create a resilient, bespoke South-East Asian city.

Malaysia's economy has exploded in recent years, and signs of KL's newfound wealth are everywhere. Retail is booming, with the world's biggest luxury brands competing for mall space. Meanwhile, a burgeoning arts scene (stoked by the city's music-loving students) and expanding sports industry (kick-started by the 1998 Commonwealth Games) are helping KL make a cultural name for itself.

Away from the glitz, the three distinct ethnic groups that have made this patch of rainforest their home - Malay, Chinese and Indian - conduct their business. There's plenty to be seen in KL's ethnic enclaves, but the city's most fascinating pockets are where everyone has mucked in together, creating a happy urban hybrid unlike anywhere else in Asia.

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  Batu Caves

  Beauty and serenity at revered Hindu shrines

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  Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

  Crane your neck and watch birds in flight at this beautiful bird park

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  Visit Putrajaya

  A city of architectural gems just 30 kilometres from KL

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  Islamic Arts Museum

  An exceptional collection of Islamic art

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