A day in IKEA

Malaysia is truly one of the top shopping destinations in Asia.  This 2014, the country recently launched its fourth "Visit Malaysia Year"(VMY), a promotional year- long campaign celebrating that include countless special events and activities for tourists.  Hundreds of celebrations are lined up as Malaysia invites and welcomes the world in open arms to their cultural extravaganzas, parades, carnivals, sporting events and festivities. Aside from the amazing colossal structures located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur where all the designer labels can be found, this author took a 30-45 trip out of the city to visit the biggest Home furnishing store in Asia-IKEA. 

Located at Mutiara Damansara, the store is linked by other renowned commercial centers like Ikano Power Center and The Curve which is one of this affluent and booming town's stellar attraction. The overwhelming sight of the place consists of 2 levels of car park below inclusive of 1,200 car park bays and 2 storeys of IKEA store above. One will be amazed with thousands and thousands of furnishing pieces you can think of and is literally a haven of everything you need for the home. You can get lost in this labyrinth of visual delight where one goes through the different areas of all things made simply beautiful. Countless ideas will run through your mind in this arresting showcase and display of furnishings. Modern designs unfold in a variety of wares practically made for the contemporary and practical households where living in style is made easy.  In between shopping overloads, you can lounge and take a break at the perfect dining setting-the IKEA restaurant. As a tourist, three hours isn't enough shopping time. To enjoy a leasurely treat in this shopping mecca, set a whole day to experience a different world that's simply IKEA.

 

No.2 Jalan PJU 7/2,Mutiara Damansara,
47800 Petaling Jaya,
Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. 

Store hours:

Mon - Thurs: 9.30am - 10pm
Fri - Sun, eve & on public holidays: 9.30am - 11pm 

Restaurant hours:

Mon - Thurs: 9am - 9.30pm
Fri - Sun, eve & on public holidays: 

9am - 10.30pm 
Breakfast is from 9 - 11am

Malacca

Malacca is a fascinating travel destination rich in history. One of Malaysia's cultural treasures showcase priceless landmarks and ruins which makes it a UNESCO World Heritage site . The historical city is painted not only with hues seen on the buildings, streets, establishments and decorative vehicles but more so with tradition and culture that keeps the spirit of "Melaka" alive.  Walking down the interesting streets gives you a feeling of being transported in history.  Influenced by the Dutch and Portuguese, the beauty of its remains reflects the beauty of the city's multicultural attraction.  Endless old houses with painted window panels and facade is more than a sight to behold. The once Straits of Malacca was known to be the passage way of global voyagers and the international port became one of the prime centers of trade in Southeast Asia.  The local cuisine is a gastronomic haven of a variety of dishes from the common street food to speciality restaurants.  Laksa satay and spices overflow the menu with endless delicacies but nevertheless like a feast for the gods. 

Traveling to Malacca is truly a memorable experience. A must-go for culture vultures where history unfolds its endless landscapes.  Foodies wouldn't want to miss this as well as it is definitely a haven for the gastronomic adventurer.  

Height of steel

In the heart of what is now globally renowned as "Truly Asia", Malaysia's Petronas Towers is a colossal attraction that has captivated the world as a vacation destination.  Kuala Lumpur's pride is located at the city center surrounded by concrete structures of shopping.  These twin towers boast of  impressive architecture recognized all over the world.  Connecting both is a tunnel walkway where one feels the power of the wind as if making their presence felt.  Upon reaching the peak, a  breathtaking 360 degree view of the city unfolds.  The spectacular scenery from the skyscraper gives a birds eye view of the cityscape. Unless you have great fear of heights, one can't help but be mesmerized by the allure of the metropolis.  Both tourists and locals are blown away as one gets the feeling of being on top of the world. Remember to come in early due to the long queue...it's one metal wonder that's a sight o behold.

A different kind of circus

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is considered as one of the top tourist and shopping

destinations in Southeast Asia.  The Pavillion, considered as the latest center of fashion and style houses more than a hundred global brands.is Showcasing the latest in global fashion from the most wanted international labels to the locals most sought after names, the stylish habitué isn't just a shopping destination  but also the cradle of the city's night life. 

At the heart of The Pavillion is a lounge cafe/bar called Circus.  The well designed cool hangout boasts of a honey comb-like bar with interesting details.  Well lit walls and corners are filled with graffiti showcasing a variety of quotes to live by.  Beautiful and distinct fixtures create an artistic sanctuary to delight the senses. Fashioned with modern touches, one can't help but notice the natural chicness throughout its welcoming spaciousness.  Perfect for the ultimate lounge lizards and understated partyphiles, this style setting is quite unpretentious and unintimidating-flashes not needed. The menu boasts of an extensive list of mouth watering cocktails, finger food and sinful desserts.The welcoming staff and crew creates a seemingly relaxed feel that's would keep you coming back to what can be called home . Definitely a nod to even the most diacriminating of taste, this chic contemporary haven of nowness is much more than your ordinary circus.