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BBC News
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Jimmy Choo's well-heeled guide to Kuala Lumpur
His shoes ignited a worldwide sartorial revolution, but he hangs his hat in KL. Here are his top hometown experiences, from enjoying street food to designing your own bespoke suit. Home to the Petronas Twin towers and one of the world's most recognisable skylines, the Malaysian capital has evolved over the last four decades from a modest metropolis known for its charming colonial architecture to a thriving, ultra-modern city. "Many years ago, when I came to Kuala Lumpur for the first time, it wasn't as modern," says legendary shoe designer Jimmy Choo, who hails from Penang, an island on Malaysia's north-western coast. "It has changed a lot. There are now lots of high-rise apartments and hotels and it's a lot more multicultural." The perennially fashionable Choo, who splits his time between London and Kuala Lumpur where he owns a penthouse apartment a stone's throw from the Petronas Towers in the upmarket KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) neighbourhood, says the city has also become a major destination for fashion fans on the hunt for high-end bargains. "A lot of people come here to shop because we have a lot of designer shops and the prices are not too high," he says. "Whether you want to buy shoes, bags, accessories – you can get them all in KL." If your budget won't stretch to luxury labels, Choo recommends seeking out homegrown talents. "Malaysia has a lot of local designers who have been very well trained overseas," he says. "They go to study fashion in places like the UK or Australia, then when they've finished their studies, they often come back to their own country to promote their designs." Beyond retail therapy, the cosmopolitan city is famous for mouthwatering street food from all corners of Asia and plentiful people-watching opportunities at fancy rooftop bars, where you can show off your designer finery while sipping an ice-cold cocktail. Here are Choo's favourite places for shopping, dining and drinking in the incredible views of Kuala Lumpur. 1. Best for bespoke fashion: Lord's Tailor Founded in 1974 by designer Robert Loh, Lord's Tailor specialises in custom suits for men and women and is beloved by many of Malaysia's most stylish celebrities. "It was recently the 50th anniversary of the designer Robert, who learned tailoring and design in London," says Choo, a loyal customer since the 1990s. "Whenever I travel to different parts of the world, they will design all my outfits – daywear and evening wear." Providing exceptional sartorial skills at a fraction of the Savile Row price, the atelier's team of tailors and seamstresses can whip up a bespoke or made-to-measure suit in a matter of days. "They have their own factory, and all the staff have been very well trained," Choo says. "If you go on a Monday for the measurements, they will have everything ready by Wednesday or Thursday to bring home." How much will a Lord's Tailor suit set you back? "It depends on the fabric you choose," says Choo. "Prices start at around 3,000 ringgit (around £515) for a jacket and trousers with one shirt, going up to 10,000 ringgit (around £1,750) if you choose Italian fabric." Website: F18 & F19, 1st floor, Bangsar Shopping Centre, 285 Jalan MaarofPhone: +6 017 670 7217Instagram: @lordstailor/ 2. Best for designer shopping: Pavilion shopping centre A fashionista's paradise, glitzy Pavilion shopping centre is where you'll find the flagship stores of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior and Hermès alongside high street favourites like Zara and COS. "Pavilion has got a lot of different brands so there's something to suit every budget," Choo says. "For example, if you want to spend £30 on a shirt or trousers, or if you want to spend thousands and thousands on those higher-level designers." To sample Malaysian style, try cool handbag brand Sembonia, trendy plus-size fashion pioneer Ms. Read, or Fipper, which sells rubber flip-flops in a vast array of colours. And if you've exhausted your options at Pavilion, pop over the road to another of Choo's favourite retail hotspots, The Starhill, a luxurious shopping centre home to the world's biggest watch gallery. Website: 168 Jalan Bukit BintangPhone: +6 032 118 8833 3. Best for sartorial souvenirs: Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex Showcasing Malaysian handicraft techniques, the Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex is a series of buildings in the Terengganu style with gabled roofs and intricate wood carvings and features a museum where visitors can see how traditional textiles are woven and dyed. "Batik is hand-painted and uses wax to create the designs," Choo explains. "Songket comes in lots of different colours and has the gold and silver thread woven through. It's quite expensive because it takes some time to weave by hand." Typically worn on formal occasions, a songket outfit usually comprises a baju kurung long-sleeved shirt, a sarong or trousers, a sampin decorative scarf around the waist and a songkok cap for men. "Usually when I'm attending my birthday event I wear songket because one of my students designs with songket material," Choo says. "It's common at Malaysian weddings as well. When government people go to functions, they usually wear batik." Travellers can purchase songket and batik fabric as well as readymade garments and accessories in the Karyaneka Boutique at the Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex. Website: Section 63, Jalan ConlayPhone: +6 032 162 7459Instagram: @kraftanganmalaysia 4. Best for local delicacies: Petaling Street Market To refuel after all that shopping, cheap – and delicious – eats are just a five-minute taxi ride from the city's major shopping centres to Chinatown; namely, Petaling Street Market. Reflecting Kuala Lumpur's history as a trading hub since the 6th Century, the market features a blend of Malay, Indian, and Chinese cuisine with hints of Arab, Thai and Portuguese flavours to boot. Choo lists his favourite Petaling Street eats: "I love char kway teow [stir-fried flat noodles], Hainanese chicken with rice, roti canai [flaky Malaysian flatbread], nasi lemak [rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves served with chilli paste, anchovies and boiled egg], and nasi kandar, which is chicken with spicy curry sauce." For dessert, he suggests sniffing out a helping of durian, the divisive yellow-fleshed fruit with a spiky exterior and a distinctive aroma. "Some people like it, some don't," says Choo. "They say it smells like cheese or something like that. But you cannot bring it back to the hotel, they won't allow it because it smells so strong!" Address: Jalan Petaling, City Centre 5. Best for cityscape views: WET Deck While many of Kuala Lumpur's rooftop bars look down on the city, WET Deck at the W Hotel is situated on the 12th floor, meaning the neighbouring Petronas Twin Towers provide a dramatic and glittering backdrop when night falls. "If I want to have a drink and some good western or Malay food, I normally go to W Hotel bar," Choo says. "You can sit by the swimming pool and see the Twin Towers right in front of you. It's a place you can relax and take some nice pictures. You can see the whole of KL." Choo's tipple of choice is a nod to his international lifestyle. "People in Malaysia like to drink cognac and whisky," he says. "But my favourite drink is actually a very English one; I love a lager and lime." A minimum spend of 500 ringgit (around £90) per table is required at WET Deck on Friday and Saturday nights, so choose a weeknight if you're looking for a more affordable option. Website: W Kuala Lumpur, 121 Jalan AmpangPhone: +6 012 365 4188Instagram: @wetdeckkualalumpur 6. Best for a serenity strull: KLCC Park An urban oasis nestled among the skyscrapers, KLCC Park is popular with city dwellers and tourists alike. With a jogging track, children's playground and wading pool, it's great for families, or anyone who wants a breather and a shady spot to escape the heat. "You can have a beautiful morning walk in the park or go for a run, you can see water features and birds during the day," says Choo. "And at night it's very romantic. You often see couples walking around the lake." Open from 10:00 to 22:00, with the main entrance on Jalan Ampang, the park also offers a brilliant vantage point to grab some snaps as the sun sets and the skyscrapers light up. Address: Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre BBC Travel's The SpeciaList is a series of guides to popular and emerging destinations around the world, as seen through the eyes of local experts and tastemakers. -- For more Travel stories from the BBC, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Step Into Adventure: Agoda's Guide to Asia's Top Cities to Explore on Foot
SINGAPORE, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda invites travelers to lace up their walking shoes and discover the charm of Asia's most stroll-worthy cities. From cobblestone streets to scenic riversides, Agoda's list of Asia's top cities to explore on foot celebrates destinations where pedestrian-friendly streets, compact layouts, and clusters of attractions make walking the ideal way to experience the local culture. Walking through a city is more than just a way to get around. It's a journey of discovery that engages all five senses. Whether it's the aroma of street food wafting through the air, the chatter in bustling markets, or the intricate details of historic architecture, exploring on foot allows travelers to experience the rhythm of daily life, discover hidden corners, and fully engage with their surroundings. Agoda has rounded up seven destinations across Asia where walking isn't just an option—it's the best way to experience the heart and soul of the city: 1. Hanoi, Vietnam: A Stroll Through Time in the Old Quarter Hanoi's Old Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets brimming with history and culture. French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant street markets create a dynamic backdrop for exploration. The area's pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to wander and discover local delicacies like Pho and Bánh mì from street vendors. The Old Quarter's charm lies in its ability to surprise, with hidden cafés, serene pagodas, and bustling markets around every corner. 2. Kurashiki, Japan: Canal-Side Serenity in Okayama Prefecture Kurashiki's Bikan Historical Quarter in Okayama Prefecture is a compact, flat area that is a dream come true for those who love leisurely strolls. The picturesque canals lined with weeping willows and traditional white-walled kura (storehouses) create a tranquil atmosphere. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Ohara Museum of Art, while shoppers can browse handmade crafts. Walking through Kurashiki feels like stepping into a postcard, with every corner offering a picture-perfect view. 3. Chiang Khan, Thailand: Riverside Charm in Loei Province Nestled along the Mekong River, Chiang Khan is a quaint town located in northeastern Thailand that's best explored on foot. Its famous pedestrian-friendly walking street, Chai Khong Road, is a car-free stretch lined with well-preserved wooden shophouses, cozy guesthouses, quirky cafés, and local boutiques. In the evenings, it transforms into a lively night market with street food, handicrafts, and live music. Visitors can also experience the serene Buddhist ritual of giving alms to monks at dawn, a photogenic and peaceful tradition. Don't forget to catch the sunrise over the Mekong for a truly magical experience. 4. Melaka, Malaysia: A Fusion of Cultures in a UNESCO-Listed Old Town Melaka Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that's compact, flat, and ideal for a walking tour. The city's rich history as a trading port is reflected in its diverse architecture, from Dutch colonial buildings to Chinese shophouses. Attractions, museums, cafés, and shops are clustered together, making it easy to wander on foot. Jonker Street and the surrounding heritage area are car-free on weekends, ensuring a safe and enjoyable walking experience. Shaded walkways, riverside promenades, and historical sites add to the charm of this culturally rich destination. 5. Pondicherry, India: A French Connection Pondicherry's French Quarter is a walker's paradise, with its grid-like street layout, pastel-colored colonial buildings, and tree-lined avenues. The seaside promenade, Goubert Avenue, is closed to vehicles in the evenings and early mornings, offering a peaceful space for pedestrians to stroll or relax by the sea with views of the Bay of Bengal. The city's relaxed vibe, with less traffic and noise compared to many Indian cities, makes it an ideal destination for those who enjoy exploring on foot. 6. Gyeongju, South Korea: A Walk Through History Known as "the museum without walls," Gyeongju's historic city center is a treasure trove of historical sites, making it perfect for walking. The main attractions, including Tumuli Park, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Gyeongju National Museum, and Woljeonggyo Bridge, are all within walking distance of each other. The city's well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and scenic walking paths make it easy to explore on foot at a leisurely pace. 7. Taipei, Taiwan: The Emerging "15-Minute City" Cited by The Economist as an emerging "15-minute city," Taipei offers wide sidewalks, clear signage, and shaded boulevards for the perfect city adventure, complete with an efficient MRT system that connects walkable hubs seamlessly. Highlights include Da'an Forest Park, Yongkang Street's food scene, the historic Dihua Street in Dadaocheng, and the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park loop. Scenic riverside bikeways and walkways add another layer of accessibility and beauty to the city. Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, shared, "Walking is such a simple yet rewarding way to explore a destination. It's about letting the world unfurl around you, noticing the little things, and really soaking in the atmosphere of a place. At Agoda, we love to help travelers find places where they can wander, get lost, and make memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're strolling through Hanoi's Old Quarter or catching the sunrise in Chiang Khan, we've got the stays and activities to make your trip unforgettable." With Agoda's extensive offerings of over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, travelers can easily plan their next walking adventure. Visit or download the Agoda mobile app for the best deals and seamless booking options. --- ENDS --- View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Agoda
Condé Nast Traveler
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Condé Nast Traveler
Fukuoka Is Japan's Most Overlooked Street Food Paradise
This is part of Uncovering Japan, a collection of stories that spotlight the lesser known gems that belong on your Japan itinerary, offering everything from a wellspring of local craft and a vibrant street-food culture to traditional wellness. Read more here. One chilly spring evening on a sidewalk in Fukuoka, Japan's sixth-largest city, I find myself huddled into a 10-seat outdoor restaurant, a clear plastic tarp separating me from the elements while shoulder-to-shoulder with patrons eagerly downing draft beers and greasy, pan-fried dishes. The namesake chef of this food stall, or 'yatai' as they're known in Japan, quickly yet methodically cooks through an expansive menu of Fukuoka's unique specialties. For my order, Kawachan rolls a dashi broth-based omelette around a mound of spicy mentaiko, a pollock roe cured in chili pepper—so regionally celebrated that you can find mentaiko-flavored Pringles in local stores. He arranges the slices of egg in a flower shape with a massive dollop of mayo at the center for dipping. The dish is sweet, salty, decidedly umami. It's creatively plated and, honestly, a bit thrilling to be eating on a sidewalk in 50-degree weather. But that's Fukuoka for you. Every night around 6:00 p.m., chefs wheel up and put together these yatai stalls along the city's downtown streets. A bustling nightlife scene emerges as patrons crowd into the tiny sidewalk restaurants to enjoy food and drinks prepared right there outdoors. By dawn, the yatai disappear, giving way to the daytime shuffle of pedestrians. Spending a night hopping between yatai, grabbing a bite or two at each, has become the most famous symbol of Fukuoka's vibrant food culture, which sees street food sit comfortably alongside high-end sushi joints and Michelin-starred gastronomy. 'Yatai aren't some new trend—they've been part of everyday life here for over 80 years. They're one of the things that really make Fukuoka stand out.' Nick Szasz, publisher of the local publication Fukuoka Now Each night, patrons crowd into Fukuoka's tiny sidewalk restaurants to enjoy food and drink prepared right there outdoors. Andrew Faulk Yatai dish up Fukuoka specialties like tonkotsu and fried ramen, or okonomiyaki, a savory pancake with a protein and tasty toppings. Nikolay Tsuguliev The success of the yatai has coincided with Fukuoka's rise as Japan's fastest-growing city, particularly among young people. This is a heavily commercial and modernized city powered by an influx of tech startups and young people seeking affordable urban living. The city's temperate climate, along with its laidback, almost U.S. West Coast-like attitude, and its friendly, hospitality-driven culture, make it the obvious place for yatai to thrive. However, because Fukuoka is located in the southwestern corner of mainland Japan, on the island of Kyushu, relatively far from the wildly popular 'Golden Route' of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it is often overlooked by first-time visitors to Japan. The megacity of Osaka, in particular, is frequently hailed as Japan's street food capital, but as I pop each umami bite of mentaiko omelette into my mouth and listen to the friendly banter next to me, I am convinced that Fukuoka actually deserves that title. 'Nowhere else in Japan has this much street food,' said Nick Szasz, the publisher of the local publication Fukuoka Now, who, along with his wife Emiko, leads tours throughout the region. 'Yatai aren't some new trend—they've been part of everyday life here for over 80 years. They're one of the things that really make Fukuoka stand out.' At every old-school yatai in Fukuoka, you'll reliably find patrons slurping on ramen. Getty Images 'It's a great way to make new friends,' remarked Hiroshi Nagasawa, a born-and-raised Fukuoka resident who leads nightly yatai-hopping tours for travelers from all over the world. During my first nights of yatai hopping, I aimed to try the classic Fukuoka specialties, including, of course, the aforementioned spicy mentaiko, along with tonkotsu ramen, fried ramen, and a local take on gyoza.
South China Morning Post
29-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- South China Morning Post
Dim sum, coffee, char siu, egg tart, lamb skewers in Australian's ideal Hong Kong food day
Chinese-Australian commercial photographer Nicholas Wong, who has shot many top Hong Kong restaurants, has been based in the city since 2018. He spoke to Andrew Sun. I've always gravitated toward big, bold flavours. I tend to prefer street food over fine dining. For me, you get a real sense of a place by eating what everyday people eat. I grew up in outer suburban Melbourne, where my parents worked hard in Chinese takeaway restaurants that catered to Western tastes. Most nights, dinner was whatever leftovers they brought home – so my early food memories revolve around classic Chinese-Australian dishes. Nicholas Wong is a Hong Kong-based photographer who grew up in the Melbourne suburbs. Photo: Nicholas Wong
BBC News
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Street food pop-up comes to Blakesley Hall
One of Birmingham's oldest buildings will host a street food evening next Dining Club (DDC) will hold the pop-up event on 27 June in the grounds of Blakesley Hall, a Grade-II listed Tudor farmhouse in has previously held pop-ups at Midlands landmarks such as Warwick Castle and the Black Country Living Hall, built in 1590, is steeped in history according to the Birmingham Museums Trust. DDC said it had partnered with the trust, which looks after nine museums on behalf of the city council, in order to put on the runs an annual summer tour of pop-up events across the Midlands, with more than 40 events planned for this year so far. Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
