Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, has become one of the business and tourism centers of southern Asia, particular since uprisings in Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand make travel there more difficult and dangerous. Here are some of the things to do in “KL,” as the tourists call it.

The Petronas Towers Skybridge. These “twin towers” extend a quarter-mile into the sky, and only 1,000 tickets are issued daily to tour the Skybridge between them. Tickets are free, but they’re distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Even if the ticket office posts a sign saying tickets are gone, it’s worth asking, as some may have been returned.

Kuala Lumpur Bird Park. Many veteran visitors consider this lush garden a must-see attraction. Its arrangement includes waterways and ponds, interactive exhibits and all the birds one cares to see, caged, free and some flying free in fence and netted aviaries.

Bukit Bintang Shopping District. Known affectionately as “BB,” this stretch of road runs from the Jalan Pudu junction to Pavillion Mall. Along this mile is the biggest concentration of hotels from 5-star accommodations to youth hostels and backpacker inns. Six of KL’s most popular shopping malls are here: the Pavillion, Bukit Bintang Plaza, Lot 10, KL Plaza, Low Yat Paza and Sungai Wang Plaza. Experienced travelers say the best local food and wares are along Jalan Alor and at the eateries surrounding Low Yat Plaza.

Merdeka Square. Also known as Independence Square, here is the heart of Malaysian national identity, a square surrounded by buildings of impressive history and the world’s tallest pole flying the Malaysian flag. Starting point for a historical walking tour.