Kuala Terengganu: Where Street Art Doesn't Sleep

okay, so i just got back from this trip to kuala terengganu, and let me tell you, it's not exactly what i expected. i went there for a street art project, and instead, i found myself getting lost in the alleys and eating way too much coconut.

the weather? man, i just checked the weather and it's this sticky 25°C with humidity that feels like walking into a warm hug from a stranger, so pack accordingly. but hey, if you like that kind of thing, you'll be in heaven. i spent most of my time trying to avoid the *heat, but the locals? they just take it in stride.

if you get bored, the islands of redang and perhentian are just a short boat ride away, trust me. but honestly, i didn't even need to leave the mainland. the jetty area is alive with color and people, and the food? don't even get me started. someone told me that the night market has the best nasi lemak, but honestly, i found a stall near the jetty that blows it out of the water. it's called stall 42 or something, but the locals just call it "that one with the old guy". you can't miss it.

now, about the street art scene. it's not like penang or georgetown, but it's got its own vibe. you gotta look down the side streets, especially around the pasar payang area. i spent a whole day just walking around, sketching ideas. the best piece i saw was this huge mural of a sea turtle, i swear it was 10 meters tall. it's on the side of a building near the waterfront, and it's just... wow. i heard that the artist is from jakarta, but don't quote me on that.

oh, and the accommodations? i stayed at this guesthouse that was basically a converted house. it was cheap and the owner was super cool, but the wifi was iffy. if you're into that kind of thing, you'll love it. if you need constant connectivity, maybe look elsewhere. i found it on this board about budget stays.

now, if you're a street artist like me, you gotta check out the art alley behind the central market. it's a little hidden, but once you find it, it's like a treasure trove of walls. i spent a whole afternoon there, and even left my own little mark. don't worry, it's all legal. the local council actually encourages it. i heard that they have an annual festival where they bring in artists from all over, but it was when i wasn't there.

and one last thing: the sunsets. man, they are not to be missed. find a spot by the chinatown area and just watch. the colors are insane. i tried to paint them, but it's impossible to capture.

if you want more tips, you can check out this yelp guide or this local forum. they have more info.

okay, that's all i got. hope you have as much fun as i did.



here are some snaps:

that one is just a random street art vibe, but it kind of fits.

okay, this one is not street art, but the temple roofs in kuala terengganu are just as detailed and colorful. a must-see.

this one is the jungle at dusk*. just take a walk outside the city and you'll see this.