Malaysia is a wonderfully diverse country. They have beaches, tea plantations, mountains, and cities. Each part is so different (the west is nothing like the east), it’s impossible to sum it up. So I won’t.

This is my photo collection of urban life, in Malaysia’s most popular cities, Kuala Lumpur and Penang. It’s proof that cities can be charming and that “different” is good for the soul.

The graffiti.

The sleepy.

The appreciation for live music.

The running park.

The culture.

The innocence.

The men wearing skirts.

The tourists riding bikes.

The teenagers being teenagers.

The Hoe. The Giant.The Malcolm.

The food.The love inside.The language. (“Jam” means ‘”hour”. 24 jam. I love it!)

The friendship.

The love. The dedication.

The beauty.

Looking at these photos makes me smile all over again. Thank you, Malaysia.

Bonus: Here’s a video of a band I saw performing on the street. I was blown away by the lead vocalist! Not only are the musicians talented but the crowds are so appreciative. In all the countries I’ve been, including the U.S., I’ve never seen people more respectful of live music than I did in Malaysia. (Also, the band is blind.)

Go to Malaysia.