Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it is known to the locals, has evolved into a 21st century metropolis and is every inch the Asian cyber-city but with plenty of history thrown in for good measure too. What makes it more than a capital city is that it is a true monument to Malaysian ingenuity and determination having risen from humble beginnings. Skylines are now dominated by the tallest skyscrapers in Southeast Asia that rub shoulders with historic temples and mosques. And that's why we think it makes the perfect oriental city break, especially when mixed with some time on the beach.

Shopping in Kuala Lumpur is a pleasure:
• Modern malls
• Night markets
• Head to Chinatown for bargains
• Little India for silks and saris

What to see
Merdeka Square is the central point of the city - where Malaysia's independence was declared in 1957 - from here the city and all its sights fan out. The National Museum of History is a must for an excellent background to both the city and the country. Scattered across Kuala Lumpur is a host of religious buildings: the Masjid Negara, one of South East Asia's largest mosques and Masjid Jamek mosque set in a quiet grove of palms, marks the spot where the city was founded.

On the banks of the Klang River, the Central Market is a wonderful Art Deco building that was the city's original market and gambling centre; now it houses craft shops and restaurants and stages cultural performances. Nearby, the Central Square is also a good shopping area. In a city with few green and open spaces, you can escape from the heat and noise at the tranquil Lake Gardens, where you'll find a butterfly garden, a stunning orchid garden and several museums.