Kuala Lumpur

What the Malaysians are the best at innovating is food. Although food might not seem trendy, only Malaysians can continually innovate their already fantastic cuisines. From fusion to Asian to Western cuisines, there are dozens of new restaurants and eating concepts opening up in Kuala Lumpur on a weekly basis.

Since the residents of Kuala Lumpur are so picky about their food, only the best restaurants, cafes and coffee shops stick around. In terms of value for money, Malaysian food is second to none.

Second to the eating culture, is nightlife. There are concept nightclubs and bars opening constantly - something for everyone. Although many would-be visitors assume that Malaysia would be restrictive in terms of drinking, there are no perceptible restrictions on nightlife. Although alcohol carries a hefty 100% levy, everything available in the West is on offer here.

There is perhaps no better city in all of Asia for foodies than Kuala Lumpur. Malaysians are absolutely obsessed with eating! Thousands of local food blogs attest to their fascination with all things food. Beware of going out for lunch - locals will travel midday for up to an hour for the best (name your dish here), then head back to the office! And with four major cuisines merging on your plate, you will likely be delighted and surprised each and every meal. One word of warning: although Malaysian food is quite tasty and relatively cheap, it is hard on the arteries and the scale. So don't come to KL if you're on a diet!

Although Kuala Lumpur isn't known for its museums or art galleries, it boasts a few unknown gems and thriving music, theater and performing arts scenes. As young Malaysians are highly connected to trends worldwide, they are quite sophisticated consumers of all things culture. Major international bands and performers regularly stop over on their Asian tours. So from eye-popping traditional Chinese opera, to Shakespeare, to sly comedies, to modern Malay musicals, Kuala Lumpur has something for everyone.

Whether you have a day or a week in Kuala Lumpur, there are so many hidden gems in terms of restaurants, museums, arts venues and outdoor adventures that you could easily waste your time unless you prioritize what you want to do and the time you have to do it in.

Malaysians adore kids, and they are welcome across the board. So if you have a family in tow, you will find plenty to keep your kids - and you - stimulated.

One caveat: the sidewalks in Kuala Lumpur are of varying quality, so if you have strollers it is advised to ask the advice of your concierge before venturing out. Sometimes, even with a short walk, it is advised for safety's sake to take a taxi.

Think of it this way: you may have to get active to work off all the delicious calories you will be consuming! Kuala Lumpur is located in a valley, which means that it is surrounded by cool hills and jungle forests. Hikers, swimmers and golfers will be especially delighted with KL.

For intrepid hikers, there are plenty of trails in and around KL to keep you busy. Swimmers who don't mind Olympic-sized swimming pools will find hundreds of options - usually no further than your hotel or nearby gym. If you'd like to go proper jungle trekking, you might be advised to take a day trip or excursion out of KL to get maximum bang for your buck. If you're looking for whitewater rafting, mountain climbing or scuba diving, there are plenty of options further afield. Runners and bikers might be advised to stick to the major parks, as sidewalks and traffic can make urban running a bit hairy. And for those looking for a more relaxing yoga escape, there are dozens of studios to calm and soothe you.

Kuala Lumpur is home to an astounding 450+ shopping malls - and counting! If you're an urban bargain hunter, you will be in shopping heaven. Anecdotally, locals claim KL is home to three of the world's ten biggest shopping malls. Be that as it may, shopping malls here cater to every budget and preference. Whether you are into vintage, bargain, trendy, classic or ultra high-end, KL has a mall for you.

Although Kuala Lumpur hasn't yet marketed itself as a cutting-edge nightlife destination, there is a sophisticated array of nocturnal options for even the most jaded traveler. You might find young Malaysians as well dressed and well-versed as any Londonite or New Yorker on the latest trends, music, bands, comedians and even cocktails. And with quite a bit of disposable income, local hipsters expect both sizzle and steak.