Nomad Cafés in Kuala Lumpur – Working Online in Malaysia’s Capital

In the beginning of my stay, I searched for Nomad Cafés in Kuala Lumpur. The internet was in general not the best of South East Asia. That’s why I worked a lot with my local SIM Card and created a hotspot. I did this either directly with my iPhone* or with my GlocalMe.

Nomad Cafés in Kuala Lumpur

VCR

When I arrived in Kuala Lumpur, nomad friends of mine told me that VCR is the secret meeting point for digital nomads to co-work and network – it’s supposed to be the most important one of the Nomad Cafés in Kuala Lumpur. I was there twice and both times I saw many people doing something at the computer. To me though they didn’t seem to be digital nomads. I had the impression that they were locals learning for university exams – with thick books next to them.

My conclusion: This is far from being my favorite place. The second time, I only went there because I was meeting some nomad friends.

Feeka Coffee Roaster

Feeka is much closer to the Menara KL (the TV tower of Kuala Lumpur) and the Petronas Towers. That’s why this place is perfect for fans of sunsets like me. The HeliBar – yep, it’s a bar on a heli pad – is only 10 minutes walking distance. The Traders Hotel with the great Sky Bar, which probably offers the best view of the Twin Towers, is 20 minutes away.

The café itself has a nice atmosphere and you will definitely not feel like an alien when you get out your laptop. Water is free. The friendly staff will tell you about when you order food or a coffee. You can sit either inside or outside, but most of the people who were working were sitting inside.

My conclusion: I definitely preferred this place over VCR. I liked the atmosphere and being surronded by so many others who were obviously working as well and the staff really was super friendly! Additionally, I think the location is much better.

LOKL Coffee

I had read a lot about LOKL as a café to work from. Unfortunately, both times that I tried to test it, it was closed! The first time, it had closed 20 minutes before I arrived. The second time it was closed for renovations.

Aku Café & Gallery

Located in China Town, the atmosphere at Aku is totally different than at VCR or Feeka. The people there are more Chinese-Malay people hanging out. I didn’t see anybody working at the computer although they write on their website that they want to offer a space for writers and artist. Wi-Fi was fast and stable while I was there. Prices were pretty low compared to the other nomad cafés in Kuala Lumpur: For a hot lemon drink (I had a sore throat on that day) and a full plate of pasta, I paid 15 Ringgit  (about 4 US Dollars).

The biggest downside is the seats. There are several benches and a wooden couch: Nothing really comfy.

My conclusion: I loved the atmosphere, the friendly staff and the fair prices. But sitting there for a while is no fun!

RGB & The Bean Hive

Probably, the RGB was my favorite one of the Nomad Cafés in Kuala Lumpur that I tested… Prices are ok, there different sitting areas, so you don’t really disturb others (or others don’t disturb you, and I loved the covered outside area. I reminded me a bit of Roman patios. It allowed you to sit outside in an area that looks like you’re inside and still be safe from the heat of the big Asian city. There are power plugs and Wi-Fi was reliable.

Unfortunately, there needs to be a downside: The RGB is not all close to the main attractions or downtown. You will have difficulties to find your way here with public transport, which is why you’re almost forced to take an UBER, Grab or taxi if you don’t want to walk for an hour.

I was in Kuala Lumpur twice. The first time I was staying in an Airbnb* room that was located outside of the city. It was the cheapest option, but I needed too much time to get to the city. 

The second time I was staying at Lanson Place Bukit Ceylon*, where I got invited for two nights. The location was much better and the view was simply incredible. In general, I was super happy with the place: a gym, a pool, yummy breakfast and a billiard table: What else can a digital nomad wish for? But this Serviced Residence has its price.