Kuala Lumpur

Download Grab (Southeast Asia's equivalent to Uber) before you arrive. It's the most reliable way to get around KL, and rides within the city center typically cost RM10-25 (USD 2-6). Always use the app rather than street taxis to avoid inflated prices.

Open an account at Maybank or CIMB within your first week—you'll need your passport, work permit, and a letter from your employer. Most banks require a minimum balance of RM500-1000, and having a local account makes paying rent and utilities much easier.

Skip the expensive supermarkets in malls and shop at Jaya Grocer, Village Grocer, or local wet markets for fresh produce. A weekly grocery shop for one person typically costs RM100-150, and wet markets are significantly cheaper if you're comfortable with the experience.

Eat at hawker centers and food courts (like Jalan Alor or any kopitiam) where meals cost RM5-15 instead of RM30-50 at restaurants. The food is authentic, delicious, and this is how locals actually eat daily.

Expect to pay 2-3 months rent upfront (one month deposit, one or two months advance rent, plus half-month utility deposit). Budget RM2,500-4,000 per month for a decent one-bedroom condo in expat-friendly areas like Mont Kiara, KLCC, or Bangsar.

Remove your shoes when entering homes, some small restaurants, and prayer spaces. It's deeply ingrained in Malaysian culture, and locals will always notice if you forget.

Get international health insurance before arriving, as public hospitals can have long waits. Private hospitals like Gleneagles, Pantai, and Prince Court offer excellent care at much lower costs than Western countries—a specialist consultation typically costs RM150-300.

KL is generally safe, but watch for bag snatchers on motorbikes, especially in quiet areas at night. Walk facing traffic and keep bags on the inside, away from the road. Avoid flashing expensive phones or jewelry in less crowded areas.

Get a local SIM card immediately at the airport from Maxis, Digi, or Celcom. Prepaid plans with unlimited data cost around RM35-50 per month, and you'll need data for Grab, maps, and translation apps.

Carry a small umbrella everywhere—sudden heavy downpours happen year-round, often in the afternoon. The rain is warm, but streets flood quickly and you'll want protection. Weather changes from sunny to stormy in minutes.

Head to Changkat Bukit Bintang or TREC for the main nightlife strips with bars and clubs. Drinks are expensive by local standards (RM25-40 for beer, RM35-60 for cocktails) due to high alcohol taxes, but still cheaper than most Western cities.