Kuala Lumpur

You probably already know about Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers and the breathtaking view from their terrifying Sky Bridge observation deck. But there’s much more to this city, which is a genuine crossroads of cultures. The food, the views and the people are enough to inspire any traveler. Chinese, Indian, Islamic and Malaysian traditions have left their marks on the city and its surroundings. At the Batu Caves, you’ll ascend many steps to the Hindu shrine of Lord Murugan and the colossal Temple Cave filled with illuminated statues and paintings of gods. Then there’s the 53,000 square-meter National Mosque, the six-tier Thean Hou Buddhist temple, the Sikh Gurdwara and the Lutheran cathedral in Brickfield. Once you’ve tired of the hectic Central Market, Chinatown or Little India, you might venture into the fairytale Moorish architecture of the Old Railway Station or visit the placid Lake Gardens (great for photographers). Alternatively, escape the city to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary or spend an afternoon screaming at high velocity on the world’s largest water slide (the Vuvuzela) at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park.