Kuala Lumpur isn’t just a city; it’s a sensory feast waiting to explode on your arrival. Towering skyscrapers mingle with the spires of mosques, temples, and churches, reflecting the rich tapestry of Malaysia’s multiracial beauty, and what happens when you have a melting pot of ethnicities? The best food ever, of course!
This dynamic metropolis seamlessly blends history and modernity. With Giants like the Petronas Twin Towers or the newly-launched The Exchange TRX piercing the clouds like gleaming chopsticks, while hidden alleyways whisper tales of centuries past. Buckle up, buttercup, because this guide is your passport to KL’s vibrant chaos!
Before You Arrive In Kuala Lumpur
Traveling to a new destination can feel like an adventure of its own. But it always helps when you’re better prepared. Let’s cover a few things you need to keep in mind!
1. Malaysian Digital Arrival Card
Effective 1 January 2024, all foreigners are required to fill out the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). You are required to fill it out within 3 days prior to your arrival into Malaysia, including your date of submission.
They essentially don’t want you to fill out too early, or too late ahead of your arrival!
Register for your MDAC here: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main?registerMain
2. Visa Requirements For Malaysia
As always, it depends on the country that you’re from! As of January 2024, only 38 nationalities currently require a visa to enter Malaysia. Countries that are not mentioned may enter without Visa according to the time of stay on a Social Visit Pass (Social) in between 30 days to 90 days according to the Citizens’ entitlement.
3. Travel Adaptors For Malaysia
Even after years of traveling, ensuring that I have the right adaptor on hand continues to be an ongoing battle. Forget tangled wires and last-minute adapter hunts – ensuring you have the right adaptor in advance, is incredibly crucial!
What Travel Adaptor Do I Need For Malaysia?
In Malaysia like the United Kingdom, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type G are used. The standard voltage is 240 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.
When You Arrive In Kuala Lumpur
If you’re looking to stay in Kuala Lumpur longer, or moving on to a different destination in the country. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind while you’re in the country!
1. Airports in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Did you know that Kuala Lumpur has three different airports? They all serve somewhat a specific purpose of their own.
2. Getting A Local SIM Card
Roaming charges got you singing the high notes of travel angst? Fear not, I’ve got you! Kuala Lumpur’s dynamic vibe thrives on connectivity, and getting a local SIM card is your key to unlocking a world of seamless navigation, delicious food finds, and epic adventure planning!
That is of course, only if you don’t have an existing global plan that has you covered!
After having 5 SIM cards stuck at the back of my phone case after all my country hopping and no longer which country it belonged to, I knew I needed to cut down on the number of SIM cards I had!
But alas, rarely do foreign options beat what the local offerings provide!
Now let’s get into it…Buying a SIM Card in Malaysia isn’t hard to do, as they’re available in most airports, malls, and convenience stores around the city.
3. Get Some Local Currency
Ditch the plastic fantastico and dive into the real Malaysia! Sure, your trusty credit/travel card might be a jet-setting rockstar at malls and most restaurants, but when it comes to the hidden gems, street vendor delights, and epic public transportation adventures – cash is king!
Local transportation loves the green stuff (technically multi-colored in Malaysia!), and let’s not forget those charming aunties tucked away in their family-run stores – they rarely take plastic.
So, before you dive into the KL chaos, grab some Ringgit at the airport ATM, or change some cash! But not too much, as your cards can certainly get you far!
ATMs In Malaysia:
– ATM Withdrawal Fees: No fee. Check with your local bank for foreign cash withdrawal fees.
– ATM Withdrawal Limit: RM1,500 ($322± USD) per transaction.
Exceptions: If the ATM dispenses RM100 notes, you may be able to withdraw up to RM3,000 in one transaction.
Money Exchanges In Malaysia:
– Airport Cash Conversion: You are likelier to be paying more than you need to due to most traditional bank’s awful conversion rates! You’re better off hunting for a Money Exchange in the city that offers a far better market rate!
I’m not quite done with building this guide just yet, but I hope it helps you to navigate as you plan your trip to Kuala Lumpur. Stay tuned for more updates!