Exploring KL

Thursday 14 April

As we all woke up early we went out to the Batu caves which are north of Kuala Lumpur. A Hindu shrine with 272 steps to the top cave, we had to avoid the Macaque monkeys who wait on the handrails to take food and drink from passers by.

In the top cave we were mobbed for photos by an Indian family who were keen to talk to an English family.

In the Dark cave, halfway down the steps, we had a 45 minute educational tour, and could hear the 200 000 bats as the guide explained the history of the cave and showed us the rock formations and creatures in the cave.

Back at the bottom of the steps it was time for refreshment (fresh coconut) and lunch. Again we were mobbed for photos, this time by some Chinese people. They seem fascinated by folk with white skin, especially children. The boys found out interesting to start with but we were all soon fed up if not being left alone!

Back into the city by taxi we were dropped off at the botanical gardens to see the orchids. Too hot to go much further outside (it was 33c) we headed to the Berjaya Times Square mall to make the most of air conditioning.

After an hour or so we all felt much better and walked home for a rest and a cool down swim in the roof pool, which is lovely and has an amazing view of the Petronas towers.

Re energised and ready for food we walked offer to Jalan Alor (Alor Street) to eat dinner. We didn't realise we would be so hassled by every restaurant owner and we opted for a mixture of Chinese and Malay food, listening to a  talented busker singing 60s cover songs.

The final stop off the day was KLCC park at the foot of the Petronas Towers, where we relaxed to the music and colourful fountains which rival those at the Bellagio in Las Vegas.

This action packed day means it's another late night all round so we might well lie in tomorrow.

Things we learned about Malaysia today:

Malaysians don't use toilet roll, which explains why there is a hose in every toilet.

The number 4 is unlucky for Chinese people. In our building there is no level 4, 14 etc, there is 3A and 13A instead. We're on floor 23.