D-Villa Residence Kuala Lumpur

You may think you know Kuala Lumpur extremely well and that this Malaysian capital hides no secrets from you, but have you looked beyond the tourist trails? Not to be let pass - Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC), Twin Towers, Merdeka Square, Central Market and other nooks and corners of the city centre. Kuala Lumpur is also host to a wealth of other undeniably interesting sites worth a visit.

OF CULTURE AND COUTURE
To get a feel of the ethnic diversity of Kuala Lumpur, stroll around Chinatown, but avoid the extremely commercial Petaling Street where the previous headquarters of the colonial police used to be. Old Chinese shophouses have been restored to resemble atypical cafes and traditional shops with antiques.

The district of Kampung Baru is a village on its own, within the city of Kuala Lumpur. Old wooden houses, traditional markets and restaurants, and lots of greenery characterise this unspoilt district. You might even see goats and hens against the outline of the Petronas Towers!

Asian or ethnic designs can be found in or around Central Market, notably at Peter Hoe. For more expensive goods, visit Aseana in Suria KLCC, a concept store featuring products from Asia with particular attention to its own line of merchandise. Pucuk Rebung also boasts a superb collection of genuine antiques from Malaysia and Sumatra.

A favourite young designer is Key Ng with outlets in Isetan, KLCC as well as in Sungei Wang, next to the footbridge at Lot 10 on the 1st floor. A synthesis of Western and Eastern influences are available at reasonable prices.

Kuala Lumpur is reputed to be one of the trendiest cities in Southeast Asia. Be curious and explore. Find out. Start with cocktails and wine bars. Aero features retro-minimalistic architecture reflecting white shades, orange cushions and some of the best margaritas in town.

For some groove and dance, Bliss is one of the popular spots and Backroom, one of the rawest! Almost every weekend, the former welcomes top models and actors; the latter ? more specialised and into all forms of alternative music. Both clubs are excellent with pulling in the crowd.