Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. We're here to meet up with Danny and Linda, family via marriage through sister and David :-) Our stay here is very short. 40 hours or so. For our 3-4 month trip in SE Asia, we prioritized countries and locations we're not likely to visit again. KL, since we've family both in KL and Singapore, is likely a place we'll see again several times.

And as expected, KL was as luxurious, social and exciting as can be. Again, with family, the tuk tuks and taxis are pushed aside for German designed automobiling in the form of Danny's Mercedes (Thanks Danny). Danny met us at the airport. And he and Linda hosted us at their super house in KL. And I do mean super – you should see their kitchen. For those not familiar with KL, its quite modern and clean. New construction everywhere. There's much wealth in the city—many foreign cars as well as Malaysian cars. Western stores and Asian stores pretty much selling anything you want. While the ethnic mix is Malaysian, Chinese and Indian, mostly, English is very common here. Its not a national language, but most everyone will be able to speak it. And, of course, there are endless places to eat.

In fact, the eating and socializing began for us right away. That first night we met Carl, Moses and Pat (Carl's wife's parents) for dinner at a Malaysian eattery. Food was great. Talk was great.

The only downside was that Danny wouldn't let me pay. You'll see this theme throughtout the KL entry. Later that night we went to a bar, Ol' skools. This is the type of place that David (Naidu) would love. Live music, friendly folks. Our attempts to pay for drinks were brushed aside by Danny.

The next morning we were off to sightsee. Batu caves then Petronas towers. Caves were cool. The monkeys were mellow compared to those at Uluwatu, Bali.

Petronas is super luxurious and modern. We didn't go up but did see the mall in the downstairs. Fantastic. Again, there's a LOT of wealth here.

Of course some shopping at Petaling Street – the area where street vendors sell everything fake (goods are from China – intellectual property rights? Doesn't exist in Asia). Of course, Ren joins in the fun and purchases a Prada male purse. At least he thinks its a male purse.

The day was, however, dominated by food. Malaysian food, Indian food (banana leaf restaurant where you eat with your hands) and finally Chinese food at Danny's club. Everything was delicious. Mose, Pat, Carl and his wife Melanie joined us for dinner.

After about 3 hours of sleep, we were on the move to the airport. Unbelievably and under constant protest from both Patty and Ren, Danny drove us the entire day and night including the 40 minute ride back to the airport. We're humbled by his and Linda's generosity and kindness.