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The
Giant Cat at the entrance of Jalan Padungan in Kuching - Starpic
Picture
is courtesy of the The Star
It
has justly been described as the most attractive city in
Southeast Asia. Or, as one visitor described it: "It's
like living in a garden."
That's
Kuching, Sarawak's capital, one of the most live able and
people-friendly cities in the region. Kuching, its name
means cat in Malay, has all the modern amenities without
losing its old world charm. Multi-storey buildings blend
with structures from colonial days and the colorful Malay
and Chinese shop houses. The
Sarawak River has long been the center of Kuching life and
the Waterfront, a beautifully landscaped esplanade, is the
main gathering place for Kuching's population, especially as
the sunsets beyond the scenic Matang Mountains. Across the
river is the Astana, once the home of the White Rajah's, now
the Governor's residence' Nearby are Fort Margherita, a
reminder of more turbulent days, and the colourful Malay
kampung. All are well worth the short sampan ride across the
river.
A
stroll along the Waterfront at any time of day is a good
start for a tour on foot around the city. It's a very walk
able place with none of the traffic snarls or pollution of
other Asian centers. If
you want to cool off, pop into one of the air-conditioned
shopping malls in the city center. There you'll find brand
name goods as well as local handicrafts and food outlets. Eating
is a favorite pastime with Kuching's people and there's such
a variety to chose from, Western, Malay, Chinese, Indian.
Try the roadside stalls or the food outlets in the malls.
Try satay, one of the bewildering variety of noodles or the
ubiquitous chicken rice. Be adventurous. Wherever you eat
it's perfectly safe.
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