Yes, the heat will make you stay indoors and that’s what I did. I went out early morning and leisurely enjoyed Nasi Dagang in different places while taking in the morning crowd, took different routes back to the hotel and checked out Pasar Payang along the way. I went out again in late afternoon for a stroll with my camera, took advantage of the afternoon sun and evening lights to capture another side of KT and ate Chinese food.
Below are other things I did (and wish I did) in Kuala Terengganu.
5. Take a stroll at night.
One of the things I like about Malaysia especially the Tourism towns is that they know how to ‘light’ up the places and turn it into a photographer’s delight. Once the sun sets, a variety of coloured lights are turned on that highlights the places and gives it a dramatic look. Should you feel like taking a boat ride to visit a few places along route, go ahead! I prefer the late afternoon one so the impact of the setting sun’s lights gives a striking effect on your photos. Unfortunately, I got lost in the exploring that I reached the Cruise starting quite late and dark. Obviously, I changed my mind.
Walking at night is recommended as I saw a different part of Terengganu that’s different in the morning. The cool night breeze, colourful sights and scenes, and the unhurried pace makes one reflect be thankful.
6. Visit Chinatown
I know there’s a Chinatown everywhere but each place is different. This applies to KT as well. Here, it’s quiet, laid back and I did not feel the usual rush and urgent vibe that’s a trademark in Chinatowns I’ve been before. Or maybe because I visited at night.
7. Bike around
When I saw the bicycles arranged side by side, it reminded me of Bordeaux where I just celebrated the Fete de la Musique. Not just Bordeaux but La Rochelle, Toulouse, and Marseille where anyone can rent a bicycle, discover the surrounding areas and return it in another place where the bike racks are located. The same thing in KT! The only problem is you have to download an app and pay by credit card – explained by the reception in my hotel – which was a bummer! 😦 In France, you can pay cash (or coins to be more specific) which I think is easier, safer and more accessible for everyone.
Hmmm. I think that explains why I don’t see anyone using it.
Yes, KT is a walking city. It can also be a biking city.
8. Take the River Cruise during late afternoon and see Crystal Mosque
This is one thing I wasn’t able to try but is recommended. Yes, I was on a holiday unfortunately, work keeps interrupting and I can’t ignore it. I have ignored it for 3 days (no choice as I was in Kapas Island where wifi is non-existent, at least in the place I stayed in – more on this in my next post) and it piled up. Anyway, the advice from the hotel reception and various blogs I read said that a late afternoon River Cruise is recommended as you will see “the afternoon light reflecting on the mosque’s dome” that I think will look stunning when you take a photo. So please, try the river cruise and share that photo with me! Make me jealous!
9. Visit Pasar Payang
The Traditional Market or Pasar in Bahasa Indonesia and Bahasa Malay is where I can get a glimpse of a place’s culture which in turn can give a thousand and one information on its history, arts, culture and people. If by chance this colourful building catches your attention, go inside and have your senses stimulated. Get your wallet ready too!
chronically gallivanting 
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