Chinatown
So, the neighbourhood is a little dodgy, but it has its compensations. Lots of backpacker hostels, for one; the proximity of the bus station for another. I won’t have to go far to make my enquiries about Taman Negara; although it would sure help if the beer was a bit cheaper.
I don’t feel like hanging out in my guesthouse any more (see previous entry).
Another advantage is that this is right next to the colourful bustle of Chinatown (and Little India!):
Here you can get almost anything, especially when looking for cheap food. Chinese tea is a real discovery: Malaysian tea is served with condensed milk (shudder).
I got my glasses fixed (10RM; nothing here is cheap, except for the food), but the traditional craft stalls have all been replaced by shops selling modern consumer goods, so no luck with my sandals and my creaking backpack yet.
Around the corner from Chinatown is the art-deco style Central Market:
It’s mainly an overpriced handicraft-bazaar but the buildings in this area are charming. And all this before breakfast! I’m off for a lunch in the food court now. ‘Pork feet with ginger and vinegar’—may as well wallow in it while I’m here 😉
Denni