Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide

• 📱 Mobile Data & eSIM: Get data for Kuala Lumpur with PikaSim - 0.5GB for 7 days costs $0.80 (other options: 0.1GB/7d for $0.60, 0.5GB/1d for $0.88). Privacy-focused, no account needed, instant activation. Get yours at https://pikasim.com/download-malaysia-esim-packages
• Visa & Entry for US citizens: Americans get visa-free entry for up to 90 days. No visa or ETA required. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay. Proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to next destination) may be requested at immigration. No pre-arrival forms needed. Immigration is straightforward - just present your passport and arrival card (given on plane). Check https://www.malaysia.gov.my for current requirements.
• Transportation: Download the Grab app (Southeast Asia's Uber) for cheap, safe rides. KL's public transport (LRT, MRT, Monorail) is excellent and super cheap - get a Touch 'n Go card for RM 10-20 at any station. Avoid taxis without meters.
• Money: Malaysia uses Ringgit (RM/MYR). ATMs are everywhere - use Maybank or CIMB to avoid fees. Exchange rates at mid-valley or Pavilion are better than airport. Budget RM 80-120/day ($20-30 USD) as a backpacker. Credit cards widely accepted in malls but bring cash for street food.
• SIM Card: Get a Hotlink, Digi, or Celcom prepaid SIM at 7-Eleven or airport for RM 20-40 with 20-30GB data. Coverage is excellent. Much cheaper than roaming. You'll need your passport to register.
• Safety: KL is very safe for solo male travelers. Watch your belongings in crowded areas and on public transport. Scams are rare but avoid unofficial money changers. The Bukit Bintang and KLCC areas are well-lit and safe at night. Emergency number is 999.
• Meeting travelers: Stay in Chinatown hostels (Jalan Tun HS Lee area) for the best backpacker scene. Join free walking tours from your hostel. Reggae Bar and BackHome rooftop are guaranteed to find travel buddies. Many hostels organize pub crawls and day trips.
• Cultural tips: Malaysia is Muslim-majority but very moderate. Remove shoes when entering homes and some shops. Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders/knees). Use your right hand for eating and greeting. Ramadan (dates vary) means some restaurants closed during day but night markets are amazing. Tipping is not expected but appreciated (round up or 10% at nicer places).

Loading eSIM packages for Malaysia...