Saying Goodbye to Our First Malaysian Home: A Look at Desa ParkCity
Today marks our last day in this apartment, the first place we lived after moving from the UK to Malaysia. It’s a bittersweet moment filled with excitement for the new home, but also a touch of sadness as we leave behind a place that holds special memories from our first year in Malaysia. We wanted to share our experience living in what we consider to be the “building king” of Kuala Lumpur, Desa ParkCity, a unique and well-maintained community.
Desa ParkCity: A Special Community
Desa ParkCity feels like a small village compared to other places we've seen in Malaysia. This apartment, a high-rise with a three-story lobby, has been the best we've ever lived in. The building is beautifully lit at night and boasts numerous facilities that are typical of Malaysian apartments.
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Indoor golf courses
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Leisure gardens for residents to relax
The community is meticulously maintained, with staff consistently working to keep the lawns green and the grounds clean. This upkeep is crucial, as even the most luxurious communities can deteriorate without proper care.
Our Apartment and Rent
We rented a 1,500 square foot (approximately 140 square meters) apartment with two bedrooms, an open study, and two and a half bathrooms. The space felt quite generous.
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Our initial rent was 6,000 Ringgit, equivalent to roughly £1,000 or $1,200.
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We've heard that rents have increased significantly since then, potentially reaching 7,000 to 8,000 Ringgit.
Despite the higher cost, Desa ParkCity's strong demand and the overall cost-effectiveness compared to global prices make it a worthwhile investment.
Community Amenities and Maintenance
The apartment complex features barbecue areas, a playground, and even a water dispenser for those who forget to bring their own. The well-maintained lawns are perfect for children to play on. The main facility floor includes the swimming pool, a highlight of the complex.
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The indoor club with air conditioning offers a comfortable space with beautiful views.
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There's also a golf simulator, a rare and expensive amenity to find in a residential area. We've never seen anything like this before. The equipment is quite expensive – around 50,000 to 100,000 yuan.
The swimming pool area includes a shallow area for children, a large pool for adults, and three jacuzzi. The lotus flowers and the sound of flowing water create a serene atmosphere. The complex also has a well-equipped, 24-hour gym featuring Techno Gym equipment.
Rooftop Views and Future Developments
The rooftop offers stunning views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline. The wind can be strong, but the experience is worthwhile, especially during fireworks displays. You can see the Twin Towers, TRX, and 118 from here. Each roof features a roof garden. The speaker anticipates the completion of the new Nural development in Desa ParkCity in 2027, citing the new dining and shopping options in the area.
Pros and Cons of Living in Desa ParkCity
While there are many positives to living in Desa ParkCity, it's important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
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High Construction Standards: The quality of materials used in the apartments is excellent.
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Excellent Management: The staff is efficient, responsive, and friendly.
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Convenient Amenities: Short elevator wait times and a beautiful parking lot add to the convenience.
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Safe Environment: The community is very safe.
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Convenient Location: Two large shopping centers are located nearby.
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Natural Beauty: A large lake provides space for running, exercising, and walking dogs.
Cons:
- High Cost: While the rent is relatively affordable compared to major global cities, it is considered expensive in Malaysia. Similar apartments can be rented for significantly less in other areas.
A Memorable Experience
Our 10 months in Desa ParkCity have been exceptional. Compared to other luxurious communities we've seen, including those in London, Desa ParkCity stands out. The weather, environment, and overall planning create a unique living experience. The speaker believes this experience is an example of affordable luxury, offering a high quality of life for a reasonable price.
Moving On to a New Chapter
We are now moving to the house we bought, embarking on a new chapter in our lives. We will share updates once we've settled in. Our next video will likely be from Singapore, but we wanted to commemorate our time in Desa ParkCity. We are grateful for the experience and the memories made here.