KL seemed to be all about contrast – modern skyscrapers towering over old rain trees and state of the art shopping centers next door to traditional street hawker stands. With cold and gloomy skies lurking outside my London window right now, the image of a sparkly new pool couldn’t be any more different. An entire new world awaits. A very hot and humid one in fact. Just as I had curated a great little collection of wool and cashmere sweaters it’s time to trade them in for cotton tops and linen dresses. Definitely not complaining though because as a So Cal girl I’m happiest in sandals and denim shorts anyway. It felt strange to show my shoulders and legs again after months of hibernation and I couldn’t help but wonder if it was okay to do so. Malaysia is a predominately Muslim country but the difference is that everyone is free to practice and express as they wish. That means that a woman won’t be (our shouldn’t be) chastised for not following the hijab dress code. Nevertheless, I’m used to traveling to places where it’s one or the other so I wasn’t quite sure what to do when I turned a corner and realized that I was the only female in sight not covered from head to toe. Going to the mall reassured me that I was going to be fine – I could have been in LA with hundreds of fellow flip flop, tank top, wearing peers! It was definitely the place to be. Shopping centers are a BIG DEAL but I’m pretty sure it has more to do with the omg-this-feels-so-good air conditioning than anything else.
In the evening I found myself giddy with joy at the fact that we were sipping mojitos outside without a coat or scarf in sight. Other things that I loved and look forward to is the incredible hospitably and customer service, amazing food both in proper restaurants and street-side stalls, and the awesome afternoon shows that thunderstorms put on for the city. Not to mention that with the exchange rate everything is either dirt cheap or at least LA equivalent – much easier to stomach than London Town’s high premiums. And of course, I’m rreaaalllyyy looking forward to our new swanky pad in KLCC (city center)! I can’t wait to settle in, decorate, and jump into that pool! It’s so different from our charming, traditional flat in London – ultra modern, brand new building, gym facilities, and city views. Basically, I’ll be pinching myself for the next two years. A few suburban neighborhoods were suggested to us but a) we don’t want a car as is necessary to live there b) we don’t need that much space and c) we like to live where we play. It seems like the “nobody walks” mentality is prevelant due to the heat but we’re down with at least giving it a go. Only thing is that the sidewalks are either non-exitent or in terrible shape in some parts but we’ll eventually learn the best routes for what we need.
One thing is for sure: with KL being so modern and western yet also deep rooted in ancient cultures and traditions, I really want to make an effort to explore the latter as much as possible. I can imagine it being far too easy to simply float along with the modern aspects of the city once we settle in. I don’t want to be that kind of expat. Between the humidity and the pool, I will, however, turn into a three shower a day person. That much I can guarantee.
Nice pool! It all looks so exciting.
you’re welcome over any time, Michelle!
Oh man… if you are going to have a yard sale for your cool weather London stuff let me know! I am from the US- and am living in London til August. (we’ll be here a year total – your blog has been a god-send) The problem is – I sent so many of my winter things home to the US a month ago and I regret it!! I had no idea it would stay this chilly. And we have been so spoiled since last Aug. that I was not prepared for this RAIN. Dumb I know – it was total wishful thinking. Now I am in dire need of warm wooly things and stuff to wear in the rain. So sign me up first in line if you do decide to clear out your London closet any time soon :) We live near Regent’s Park, but I’ll meet you anywhere in the city if I have to ;)
Laurel, so happy to hear that the blog has been helpful with your move! And yes, what were you thinking?!? I spent lots of time finding the perfect knits so I’m not ready to let go of the just yet. If anything changes you’ll be the first to know!
Any suggestions on where to find a good jumper or cardigan, let me know. I am heading to Brora today, but I am not sure my pocketbook will ever speak to me again.
they are good investment pieces so i’m sure that your wallet will forgive you in the long run :) i never got around to buying this local brand but i LOVE what they do – similar price points to Brora too http://chintiandparker.com/index.html
THAT.POOL. wow! So dreamy! Pleased prep is going well!
that pool is definitely the goal amidst the moving craze!
funny i turned into a 3 shower a day person since i moved to turks and caicos!
congratulations o the move, it sounds so exciting!
Thanks! happy to join the club ;)
So excited for you Mu! 2 years! WOW! We will be missing you every second! xoxo
ditto my love!
Best of luck with the transition! I’m so looking forward to following along on your adventure in KL and all the beautiful places you’ll go in Asia.
Congrats on finding a place to live with such a stunning pool and view (I bet!) I have never been to Malaysia but spent some time in Thailand in college. I’m sure you will make your way up there, it is a gorgeous country!. Make sure to check out Chiang Mai and go on an elephant tour there! I went for one on my 20th bday it’s still my best birthday to date!
Thanks for the tip!
Hello Anamu,
Thank you for your kind words about Kuala Lumpur. It really is a great vibrant city. I’m sure you’ll find time to discover the all 14 states that we have here once you’ve settled down :D I hope you’ll enjoy the the islands, beaches, food, shopping and more! And you really have nothing to worry about the hijabi dress code. Everyone is free to dress up they way one chooses to as long as it is decent, which is very reasonable I believe. Even the Muslim women are not compelled to follow the said dress code, by the way. So, no worries there!
Sya – I am SO happy you left a comment. Just checked out your blog and found some great links to local vintage shops and such! Thanks for the reassuring re: the clothing – four days in and I’m already feeling better :)
That pool looks AMAZING!! Cant wait to jump in when we come for a visit (fingers crossed!!)
my entire body is crossed!
hawker centers…YUM!! this is so exciting!!
Definitely love a big meal for two bucks :)
I’m so excited for the two of you! Just another exciting chapter in your lives – and what a wonderfully cool place for it to unfold in! Can’t wait to follow along with you.
xo
cortnie