It has justly been described as the most attractive city in Southeast Asia . Or, as one visitor described it: "It's like living in a garden."

That's Kuching, Sarawak 's capital, one of the most live able and people-friendly cities in the region. Kuching, its name means cat in Malay, has all the modern amenities without losing its old world charm. Multi-storey buildings blend with structures from colonial days and the colorful Malay and Chinese shop houses.

The Sarawak River has long been the center of Kuching life and the Waterfront, a beautifully landscaped esplanade, is the main gathering place for Kuching's population, especially as the sunsets beyond the scenic Matang Mountains . Across the river is the Astana, once the home of the White Rajah's, now the Governor's residence' Nearby are Fort Margherita , a reminder of more turbulent days, and the colorful Malay kampung. All are well worth the short sampan ride across the river.

A stroll along the Waterfront at any time of day is a good start for a tour on foot around the city. It's a very walk able place with none of the traffic snarls or pollution of other Asian centers.

Just across the road is the Main Bazaar, once the city's commercial center, now housing curio and antique shops, travel agents and coffee shops. Nearby is the Sarawak Museum with its beautiful gardens and the park built round the old town reservoir.

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