Times Square mall in Kuala Lumpur.
Retail shopping within Australia is expensive, and some Australians head to Asia on excursions to benefit from the higher Australian dollar and relatively lower Asian prices. Many eager shoppers are aware of Bangkok, Hong Kong, or Singapore, but
Kuala Lumpur is another contender for those seeking to spend their shopping dollars overseas. Kuala Lumpur benefits enormously from reasonable accommodation costs when compared to the more expensive Hong Kong and Singapore – thus freeing funds for purchases.
The inner suburb of Bukit Bintang bordered by Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Imbi is home to many malls that remain open until 10pm every night. This area, filled with malls of differing quality and size and restaurants serving a variety of cuisine, has much to tempt the visitor.
The spacious Pavilion is the newest mall in Bukit Bintang. With a huge food court in the lowest level, the upper floors are filled with designer brands that cater to the refined shopper who does not mind paying a premium. Another similarly priced option is the massive Berjaya Times Square. Home to a staggering 1000 outlets, these include a myriad of retail and service options, but also cinemas and an indoor amusement park.
Older malls such as BB Plaza and the adjoining Sungei Wang Plaza house smaller shops within narrower and crowded corridors, but they provide a significantly cheaper range of items. Bargain hunters or those not loyal to specific labels or brands are likely to head here.
Plaza Low Yat is one of the best-value malls in Asia dedicated to electronic items – including photographic, telecommunication and computer products spread over seven lively floors. Shoppers here can be confident in finding genuine products and not less reliable copies.
If travelling to Kuala Lumpur, ensure your suitcase is only party filled on arrival, for one can easily depart with luggage exceeding your free baggage allowance.
