Don’t cha love the word sundries? I’m in a market similar to Whole Foods in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I think Malaysia should be called Mall-asia. Never have I seen so many shopping malls in such close proximity. Not even in Northern N.J. It is the fourth largest shopping capital in the world! Who knew? Kuala Lumpur is also unexpectedly cosmopolitan. Who knew?? That’s what’s so great about traveling to places you’ve only “seen” in your mind’s eye. You get to discover first hand, how wrong you can be! I’m reminded of that cliche “never make assumptions”. Wow. KL is a mix of many cultures; the Middle East, India, Indonesia, Asia, the UK, America – it’s all here. We were just watching the local news. I must say, it’s much more “world” balanced. Very similar to the BBC. The Muslim people in KL, have been very kind and helpful. Travel brings perspective. So far, that’s the real gift of this journey.
The food is pretty great. If you read about Malaysia online, it’s known for its variety of fine cuisine. I happen to love Malaysian food. We’re only here for a quick minute, but I had a chance to seek out some favs – mee goreng, laksa soup. We had a spectacular breakfast with some of the best, straight up western (it’s really eastern) coffee I’ve ever had.
We left Thailand on an overnight train outta Hat Yai, and purchased sleeper compartments. They’re like tiny bunk beds. A good book, a chip of Xanax, and I was drifting above the noisy mechanical chugging of the train, and the choke of it’s exhaust fumes. We were in the last set of bunks next to the exit door. Certainly no “Orient Express” but interesting, fun and somewhat comfortable to boot (that would be “in the boot” literally, or should I say caboose)?
On our first night, we walked through Little India. It was very exotic. I’m not sure if it was a regular night-market, or some fancy display. These Indians like their music loud. It’s where I heard my first legit “Indian” rap song. It was surprisingly good. How nice not having to hear the usual pop fare you get in the U.S. Until today that is. We were cornered in the Aquarium with all the American chart-toppers.
The Aquaria KLCC, was really fun. Although I do feel bad for the sea life. Trapped in their boring little plexi-prisons. I guess it’s a trade off for education. I did have a chat with a sad, whiskered shark, who was flat on his simulated “ocean floor”. Facing the glass, eyes staring at me, puff breathing and darn if it didn’t seem like he was listening and responding. I apologized profusely to him and wished him great luck getting through it all.
The topper of the day though, while waiting for the subway, was witnessing this jazzy fella. One glance, from his white shoes to his white beard, and I was smiling ear to ear.
You can follow Cynthia’s stories, and become a “fan” at The Huffington Post.
She is also writing for Amnplify – the Australian Musician Network.
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