Day 1: Departing from Sydney, Australia
Our journey begins in Sydney, one of Australia’s most cosmopolitan cities. Both of us, an Australian (boyfriend) and an Indian (girlfriend), have always enjoyed our cultural differences, and this trip is no exception. We board our flight with excitement, ready to explore the contrasting yet harmonious blend of cultures that await us in Kuala Lumpur and Goa. Flying from Sydney International Airport is a breeze, especially with the convenience of an Australian passport, which makes travel smooth and hassle-free.
Arrival in Kuala Lumpur
Upon arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), we immediately feel the humid, tropical air that welcomes us to Southeast Asia. The airport is modern and well-organized, making it easy to navigate. KLIA is about 45 kilometers south of the city center, and we opt for the KLIA Express, a fast train service that gets us to the heart of Kuala Lumpur in just 30 minutes. The ride is comfortable and gives us our first glimpse of the lush Malaysian countryside.
Checking in at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
For our stay in Kuala Lumpur, we chose the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. Nestled in the city’s Golden Triangle, this luxurious hotel offers breathtaking views of the iconic Petronas Towers. We check into our spacious room, which features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the skyline—a perfect start to our trip.
Tip: As an Australian passport holder, no visa is required for short visits to Malaysia. However, Indian citizens require an eVisa, which can be easily applied for online before your trip.
Day 2: Exploring Kuala Lumpur
Breakfast at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
We start our day with breakfast at the Grand Hyatt’s THIRTY8 restaurant. The buffet features a range of international and Malaysian dishes, and we indulge in everything from nasi lemak (a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk) to fresh tropical fruits. As a couple, we enjoy trying new flavors together, and Malaysian food offers the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory.
Visit to the Petronas Towers
The Petronas Towers are a must-see when visiting Kuala Lumpur, and since they’re only a 10-minute walk from our hotel, we decide to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Standing at 452 meters, the twin towers are the tallest in the world. We take the elevator up to the sky bridge that connects the two towers on the 41st floor, where we enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Cultural Experience at Batu Caves
In the afternoon, we take a Grab (Malaysia’s version of Uber) to the Batu Caves, one of the most important Hindu shrines outside India. It’s fascinating to see how seamlessly Malaysian culture blends various traditions, including Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. The towering golden statue of Lord Murugan at the entrance to the caves is awe-inspiring. We climb the 272 steps to the top, where we explore the limestone caves filled with Hindu shrines.
Dinner at Jalan Alor
For dinner, we head to Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur’s most famous food street. The street comes alive at night with vendors offering a wide range of Malaysian street food. We try satay (grilled meat skewers), char kway teow (stir-fried noodles), and roti canai (a type of flatbread served with curry). One of the highlights of traveling together is sharing food, and here we get to enjoy a wide variety of dishes, each representing a different cultural influence.
Day 3: Day Trip to Malacca
On our third day, we take a day trip to Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage city about two hours south of Kuala Lumpur. Known for its rich history and colonial architecture, Malacca is a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. We visit St. Paul’s Hill, A Famosa Fort, and the Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum. Walking through the streets of Malacca, we feel transported back in time.
We also take a boat ride along the Malacca River, which gives us a unique perspective of the city. The colorful murals along the riverbanks depict the city's history and culture, making the experience both visually appealing and informative.
Day 4: Last Day in Kuala Lumpur – Shopping and Relaxation
Our final day in Kuala Lumpur is a bit more relaxed. We decide to indulge in some shopping at Pavilion KL, one of the city’s most upscale malls. Whether it’s the high-end fashion brands or the local boutiques, Kuala Lumpur has something for everyone. Shopping here is tax-free for tourists, making it an ideal destination to pick up a few souvenirs.
Before leaving, we treat ourselves to a couple’s massage at the Essa Spa in our hotel, the Grand Hyatt. The spa offers a blend of modern and traditional treatments, and it’s the perfect way to unwind before our next destination—Goa.
Day 5: Flying to Goa, India
Our flight to Goa departs early, and it’s a short 5-hour trip. Goa is known for its pristine beaches, Portuguese-influenced architecture, and vibrant culture. As an Indian citizen, my girlfriend feels a sense of homecoming, while for me, Goa represents an exciting new cultural experience.
Goa’s Dabolim Airport is smaller and less modern than KLIA, but it has its own charm. We clear customs quickly, and I’m pleased to find that visa requirements for Australians visiting India are straightforward. The eVisa system makes it easy to apply online in advance, and within minutes, I’m stamped in.
Checking in at Aldeia Santa Rita – Candolim
Our first hotel in Goa is the Aldeia Santa Rita, located in Candolim, one of Goa’s quieter beaches. This boutique hotel is modeled like a Goan village, with colorful cottages surrounding a central pool. It’s cozy and intimate, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Day 6: Exploring North Goa – Candolim and Calangute Beaches
Goa is synonymous with beaches, and on our first day, we explore Candolim Beach. The vibe here is laid-back, and we spend the morning lounging on sunbeds and sipping fresh coconut water. The beach is less crowded than the nearby Calangute Beach, but we venture there in the afternoon to experience its vibrant atmosphere.
At Calangute, we take part in water sports—parasailing and jet skiing. As a couple, we love adrenaline-filled activities, and Goa’s beaches offer plenty of opportunities for adventure.
Dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf
In the evening, we dine at Fisherman’s Wharf, a popular seafood restaurant by the Mandovi River. We try the Goan prawn curry, bebinca (a traditional Goan dessert), and a variety of seafood dishes. The flavors of Goa are unique, blending Indian spices with Portuguese culinary traditions, and we savor every bite.
Day 7: Cultural Exploration – Old Goa and Panjim
Goa isn’t just about beaches; it’s also rich in history and culture. We spend the day exploring Old Goa, the historic heart of the region. We visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important churches in India. The basilica houses the tomb of St. Francis Xavier, and its baroque architecture is impressive.
Next, we head to Panjim, Goa’s capital city, where we stroll through the colorful streets of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter. The Portuguese influence is evident in the colonial-style buildings, painted in vibrant shades of blue, yellow, and red.
Sunset at Dona Paula
For sunset, we head to Dona Paula, a small fishing village with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The legend of Dona Paula, a Portuguese noblewoman, adds a touch of romance to the place. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, we reflect on how our different cultural backgrounds never come in the way of our relationship. In fact, they make our travel experiences richer, as we learn from and appreciate each other’s perspectives.
Day 8: Moving to Marquis Beach Resort – Candolim
For the second part of our stay in Goa, we check into the Marquis Beach Resort, also located in Candolim. This resort offers direct beach access, and we’re immediately struck by its luxurious yet relaxed ambiance. Our room has a private balcony overlooking the sea, and we can hear the sound of waves crashing against the shore.
Day 9: Day Trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Today, we venture inland to visit the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in India. The journey to the falls is an adventure in itself, as we take a jeep safari through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The road is bumpy, but the lush greenery and occasional sightings of wildlife make it worth the ride.
The falls are spectacular, and the mist created by the plunging water gives them a milky appearance, hence the name Dudhsagar, meaning “Sea of Milk.” We spend a few hours swimming in the cool waters at the base of the falls—a refreshing break from the Goan heat.
Day 10: Relaxing at the Resort and Candolim Beach
After the adventure of the previous day, we decide to take it easy today. We spend the morning lounging by the pool at Marquis Beach Resort. In the afternoon, we head back to Candolim Beach for a leisurely stroll. The beach is quieter than before, and we enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Dinner at Pousada by the Beach
For our final night in Goa, we dine at Pousada by the Beach, a charming restaurant with tables set directly on the sand. The restaurant serves a mix of Goan and continental dishes, and we opt for the Goan fish curry and vindaloo. As we enjoy our meal under the stars, we reflect on how travel has deepened our bond as a couple.
Day 11: Departure from Goa
As our trip comes to an end, we pack our bags and head to Dabolim Airport for our flight back to Sydney. Goa has been an unforgettable experience, from the vibrant beaches to the rich cultural history. And as a couple, our different backgrounds have only added depth to our journey, making every moment more meaningful.
Practical Tips for Traveling as a Couple with Cultural Differences
- Visas: For Australians visiting Malaysia, no visa is required for stays up to 90 days. However, for India, Australians need to apply for an eVisa online, while Indian citizens can enter freely.
- Currency: In Malaysia, the currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), while in India, it's the Indian Rupee (INR). Currency exchange is easily available at airports and city centers.
- Local Etiquette: Both Malaysia and India are culturally diverse countries. In Malaysia, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites like mosques and temples. In Goa, beachwear is fine, but when visiting churches or historic sites, it's a good idea to cover up.
- Food Preferences: Traveling as a couple with different culinary preferences can be fun! Malaysia and Goa offer a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, ensuring that both of us can enjoy our meals.
This trip has shown us that while our cultural backgrounds may be different, they only enhance our travel experiences. From Kuala Lumpur's modern skyline to Goa's laid-back beaches, we’ve shared countless moments of joy, discovery, and love, proving that cultural differences can enrich a relationship, not hinder it.