KL is a much more developed city than I imagined. Being my third short trip in KL, I am quickly finding it to be a livable, vibrant city. The power of brand recognition amazes me, even as I walk into convenience stores I don't trust myself to buy products that I don't recognize. The power of marketing eh? Malaysian food is great but I was so happy today in Chinatown with my bowl of wonton noodles. It's the little simple things in life that matter after all. Exploring Chinatown today reminded me of all other Chinatowns in the world that I have visited: San Fran, London, Montreal and the like all with its familiar gaudy red arch and rows of vendors. National pride or no, I couldn't help but feel a surge of "pan-Chinesim". This time, the vendors had cute Malaysian accents and I managed to pick my long coveted brown and tan striped Adidas jacket for 35 ringgets. Fake or not, I like it! The ethnic mix in KL makes the city special and as John pointed out interesting buildings and facts about the city, I marvel at the way the government handled ethnic integration. The consequences from colonialization from Britian, the Second World War (the Pacific War), and migrant workers all contribute to the city's eccletic mix and it is fascinating. I have also never been to a Muslim country, and the architecture and laws of the land reflect it. The grips of theocracy remains as little strands, and it made me realize that gods still rule some lands outside of North America.

As we walk down the streets, even in KL, I feel a little bare with my skirt and tank top. I wonder if the locals stare at us and think of us as blasphemous, girls dressed like this. If my skin was white, at least they would understand, but with my tan, I can easily pass for a SE Asian, except for the way I talk and dress of course.