Leisure activities in Kuala Lumpur for expats
You will never run out of things to do when you live in KL. A bustling art scene and recurring festivals aside, KL is the place to experience new things on your own or with friends and family. It is also a place to make new friends and pick up hobbies you had yet to anticipate.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur on your own:
Kuala Lumpur is a great place for anyone interested in art and culture. Public and private art galleries are a great way to learn about the history and culture of Malaysia through the lens of the artists that have shaped the social landscape. Entrance tends to be free or at a low fee. You can find out more about ongoing and upcoming exhibitions by planning your visit online or just allow yourself to be surprised by what's on. Annexe Gallery, Ilham Gallery and Galeri Petronas are a great place to start.
Good to know:
Some galleries remain closed on Monday but are open over the weekend. It is worth checking before your visit.
Kuala Lumpur is a city of many surprises and that certainly includes the cinematic experiences that are available in the city and a short distance from it. Film festivals covering a range of interests occur throughout the year. In addition, the cinemas in KL tend to show blockbusters as well as movies from China and India. These are subtitled and worth the experience. If you feel like splurging, you can experience a little bit of luxury you can splurge on gold class tickets or go watch a movie on bean bags.
While food is never an issue in the city, the opportunity to master a new type of cuisine is an option that should not be discounted. Cooking studios are a great way to learn how to handle local and regional ingredients while also making friends. Some of them have a set theme while others allow you to choose what you want to learn over an afternoon class.
Good to know:
Cooking classes may require prior booking due to limited capacity.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur with your friends or partner
If you're looking for something fun and intellectually stimulating to do in the city, escape rooms are a great activity to enjoy with friends or your partner. The various rooms around the city allow for teams of two or more. The themed mazes are a great way to bond.
KL is a place to take up new hobbies or discover the newest entertainment technology. This includes Virtual Reality gaming centres have cropped up around the city and are great to try out as a small group.
Genting Highlands is another option that is perfect for a short day trip - and a cable car ride. Aside from the Casino, the indoor theme park and food options make for a great hangout spot.
On a night out with friends, Changkat is the place to be to fully experience nightlife in the city. Bars and clubs host local and international musical acts and whatever your musical tastes, Changkat remains the heart of the party scene in KL.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur with your family
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in the city. The national gallery displays Malaysia's rich history and culture are on display and Zoo Negara is the place to learn about the diversity of South-East Asian fauna and flora. The aquarium at KLCC is popular with families while Sunway Lagoon, a water park is a great option for a staycation. If you're looking for a place to shop while kids are entertained, Times Square has everything from food courts to popular shops and an indoor theme park.
Useful links:
Ilham Gallery
Freedom Film Festival
Best Cooking Classes in KL
Genting Highlands
