Kuala Lumpur Airport Mini Guide
One of Asia's jargest and busiest
Kuala Lumpur International Airport is one of the largest and busiest in Asia handling 15-25 million passengers per year and has three times been voted the “world's best airport” in recent years. The main terminal building was built using the concept “forest in the airport – airport in the forest” where an entire section of rain forest from the Malaysian jungle was transported to and re-planted in the terminal. It is the home base of Malaysian Airlines who fly from there to all over the world. It is also a major stopover for flights between the
UK and Europe and
Australia and
New Zealand.
The business traveller
If you are visiting KL airport on a business trip, you will find it an extremely efficient transit centre with more facilities for your comfort than most airports. Should you be lucky enough to be travelling either first or business class you may wish to take advantage of the airline lounges provided by several of the large Asian airlines. A fully equipped Business Centre is available at a small charge within the airport should you be needing to have a conference call or hold a meeting during your travels. Even without this service you are still able to use your laptop or other computerised equipment as there is free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
Travelling with children?
The airport boasts a children's play area to keep your little ones amused during any stopover, this is located on Level 5 of the main terminal building. Numerous nurseries are also available throughout all terminals for baby changing/feeding etc.
Having a stopover and need to re-charge?
There are two hotels attached to the airport, one of them “skyside” so you have no need to clear customs and immigration in Malaysia to reach it and catch a few hours sleep or relaxation. Or if you haven't got quite long enough to check in to a hotel, how about a massage or some reflexology? Both of these services are also available to refresh you before, after or during your flights.
More mundane things in life
The airport also has all the more mundane things you might expect, such as plenty of restrooms, a pharmacy, cafes, bars and restaurants to suit every palate and excellent facilities for the disabled - should you need assistance and can't find it, just ask at one of the many information desks. Of course there are also plenty of shops to tempt you into making use of the numerous ATMs and Bureau de Change available.
Getting out of the airport for a while
There are several hire companies renting cars at KL airport, their desks are located in the arrivals hall. Should you be flying onward from another Malaysian or Thai destination, then it is even possible to collect your car at the airport and return it elsewhere or vice versa.
The area known simply as the city centre is home to the original parts of the city. There’s nothing really old there as floods and fires over the centuries contrived to destroy much of historical value.
For an interesting day out, drive your hire car to the Batu Caves, an important Hindu shrine where after climbing 272 steps you’ll be able to enter limestone caves cut out of the hillside to make temples. If you want a taste of authentic India in KL then head for Brickfields, otherwise known as Little India where you can buy many Indian products.