Beneath the modern and metropolitan exterior of Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant, historic centre with a range of colonial-era attractions. The local accommodation offerings straddle this line, with an even number of posh, luxury hotels and atmospheric inns in colonial buildings.

The best part of staying in Kuala Lumpur is the feeling that you're caught somewhere between past and present, with the option of staying in a colonial mansion or a multi-storey international hotel. The Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC shopping centre mark the city's modern centre and are connected by sky bridges to some of area's finest hotels. The Mandarin Hotel, the Westin and the Shangri-La are some of the best on the market.

The Mandarin Oriental hotel enjoys views over a large city park and is connected to the Petronas Towers and Suria KLCC shopping plaza. Five restaurants and full amenities await guests here. The Westin is also found here and offers similar facilities. Shangri-La is located in the Golden Triangle and is arguably the city's most luxurious hotel.

At the core of Kuala Lumpur is the historic colonial town. Fountains, cathedrals and mosques dot the streets and make a lovely backdrop for the mid-range hotels and guest houses that are situated here. Most of the accommodation is independently operated and doesn't offer much in the way of amenities.

Ampang is a much more cosmopolitan district that prospered during the tin-mining boom. The central road, Jalan Ampang, is lined with international restaurants, bars and dance clubs. The Concorde is one of this area's most prominent hotels and attracts many business travellers.

There's no question that the greatest concentration of tourist-oriented attractions are found in Kuala Lumpur city centre, often abbreviated as KLCC. The Petronas Twin Towers soar over the skyline and host a large shopping complex. Hotels here are lavish and upscale, catering to visitors who can afford to plant themselves in the city's impressive centre.

The Golden Triangle is even more exclusive and has a dizzying array of hotels in every price range. Some of Kuala Lumpur's most exclusive hotels, like the Shangri-La, are located here, but there are just as many budget and mid-range options interspersed. Walking out of hotels in this district, tourists are immediately faced with countless shopping, dining and entertainment options.

Kuala Lumpur goes on to include several other districts that have a selection of hotels, though they're not as sought after as those in the city centre. Chinatown is a world away from the rest of the city and accommodates guests in 100-year-old buildings. There's also a substantial Indian community with its own unique atmosphere and accommodation.