30 April & 1 May 2025
Packing light for long journeys is always a balancing act. One big backpack, one smaller daypack — and somehow, everything essential must fit inside. You can’t bring only two outfits, but carrying a wardrobe is out of the question. I’ve finally narrowed it all down to what works best: two pairs of leggings, three pairs of shorts, two dresses, a few t-shirts, underwear, one warm jacket, and my raincoat. It’s not much, but it’s enough.
The downside? Wearing the same pieces over and over means they wear out quickly. So, before heading off to Malaysia, I went shopping for replacements. I took a tuk-tuk back to the same mall Aryan and I had visited — found a store that wasn’t too pricey and had most of what I needed. Shopping in India has its quirks — some items are simply not common here, or wildly expensive. Still, I managed. Then I returned to the hotel to rest until it was time to leave for the airport. Even short outings in Delhi can be utterly draining.
As I arrived at the airport, I was struck — as always — by the sheer number of people flying across the world. I often find myself wondering… who are they? Where are they going? What lives are they living? I was grateful I arrived early; check-in and security took time. By the time I reached my boarding gate, there was just enough time for a quick snack and drink.
It quickly became clear why my AirAsia ticket had been so cheap — no USB charger, and all meals, snacks, and even water were sold separately at ridiculous prices. I wasn’t thrilled, but thankfully the flight was short. I hoped to sleep, but airplane seats remain an unsolvable mystery of discomfort. I did have an empty seat beside me, though, which made it a little more bearable.
As we descended into Kuala Lumpur, a swirl of emotions stirred. I’ve dreamed of seeing Malaysia — especially KL — since childhood. My uncle and his family lived in Singapore for a few years, and my granny had visited him, later regaling us with tales of Malaysia and Thailand. She adored her time here. I remember her bright dresses, the jewelry she brought back, and her stories about the thick, tropical heat. She passed away on my birthday a few years ago, and around this time of year, her presence always wraps gently around me. Arriving here made me miss her deeply.
After landing, customs and immigration went smoothly, and I made my way to the KL Express — the train that would take me into the city, where my host sister Alexia would pick me up. I was a little nervous about navigating the public transport system. In South Africa, trains aren’t as common, and big city transit can feel daunting. But everything was clearly marked, in both Malay and English, and the whole process was incredibly smooth.
Alexia picked me up about 30 minutes later and brought me home. Since it was a public holiday, she and her daughter Stella were headed to the park. Their apartment is lovely — close to the city center, clean, peaceful — and I felt so spoiled to have my own room and bathroom again. I barely had time to unpack before falling into a deep sleep.
When I woke up, I was ravenous. Alexia had mentioned there was a mall nearby, so I asked my trusty Google Maps to guide me. The streets were quiet — maybe due to the holiday — and I was surprised at how clean and calm everything felt. The mall itself was like every other mall in the world, yet with a uniquely Malaysian feel. The supermarket offered home-cooked meals for incredibly low prices, and I gratefully devoured a late lunch before strolling through the shops.
I wasn’t quite ready to dive into the buzz of KL just yet. I spent the rest of the day — and the next — cocooned in the apartment, catching up on writing, resting, and simply allowing my nervous system to recalibrate.
Maybe tomorrow I’ll find the courage to navigate my way to some of KL’s main attractions. But for now, I’m just letting myself land.
