Malacca
Melaka is the oldest capital city in the state of Malaysia and it is the center of Malaccan history as well. There are many preserved landmarks that represent the essence of Malaccan history right from the occupation of Dutch, Portuguese, British and Japanese. Today, Melaka has been established as one of the UNESCO world heritage sites and shouldn't be missed when visiting Malaysia.
Most of the interesting travel spots in Melaka are concentrated in the center of the city. The famous Jonker Walk or Jalan Hang Jebat is known for its extensive antique pieces and great food options. New cafes and specialty stores nicely dotted the area which only added charm to this amazing lane. Peranakan architecture is very apparent in Jonker Walk.
Places to stay
Finding accommodation in Melaka shouldn’t prove too much of a challenge with more and more budget hostels opening in response to the area’s growing popularity. The best budget backpacker options are scattered in and around the traditional China Town, with a collection of less desirable, although sometimes cheaper, alternatives located at Taman Melaka Raya, about 10 minutes walk from Jonker Street. Those looking for luxury should head towards the river for an ever expanding choice of high end boutiques.Featured hostels
Conveniently located just outside of China Town, this hostel boasts a variety of cheap and cheerful rooms, complimentary tea and coffee, and a rooftop garden to boot. The owner, Howard, appears to have endless amounts of enthusiasm and energy, regularly taking guests on bike tours and out for ‘authentic Malaysian street food’. If you’re feeling sociable, this could be the place for you. RM 30-50.
Tony’s Guesthouse: A hostel ever popular with the backpacker clientele, located just across the river from Jonker Street. It’s plain and simple but the chilled out, hippie-esk vibe makes it the perfect place to relax and soak up the town’s atmosphere.River View Guesthouse and Hostel: Fantastic location within China Town itself, this converted pre-war shop-house has a reputation for being one of the friendliest backpacker hangouts in town. Rooms are cheap and clean but during high season are often hard to come by. Children aren’t permitted. RM 40-90
Apa Kaba Home & Stay: A firm favourite for those travelling with children, this hostel is a 10 minute walk from China Town on the opposite side of the river from Jonker Street. The place is very clean and very homely, with a complimentary breakfast adding to the hostels appeal. Private rooms only. RM 40-100.
Things to do
Jonker Street: Despite claims that Jonker and its surrounding streets have fallen victim to tourist demand, guilty of selling the same old standard souvenirs found everywhere; ‘Junk Street’ is still home to a few genuine treasures. Take time rooting through its dark antique shops and you will find everything here from ancient telescopes to worn British sea medals.Jonker Walk Night Market: Jonker Street’s famous night market takes place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting open at 6pm until midnight. The large and popular weekend market spurs Melaka into life, where martial arts and dance shows accompany the many colourful stalls.
Maritime Museum (Flora de La Mar): This maritime museum itself is a replica of the ‘Flora de La Mar’, a Portuguese ship that sank off the coast of Melaka. The museum tells the fascinating story of Melaka’s troubled history, including its rule under its many foreign occupants. The plastic models of angry sailors make the whole experience feel slightly dated, but it’s still worth a visit for the interesting story the museum sets out to tell.
Melaka Festivals: Melaka is at its very best during one of its many annual festivals where the packed streets of China Town come alive with people eating, drinking, laughing and dancing. Festivals happen throughout the year but the UNESCO world heritage festival that celebrates the town’s historic accolade is one of the best, usually falling in either July or September.
Taming Sari Revolving “Gyro” Tower: This popular attraction offers visitors a bird’s eye view of the Melaka skyline from 110 meters high. The viewing platform slowly rotates offering 360 degree panoramic views of the streets below. Although only a ten minute ride, including assent and descent, most agree it is worth the entry fee (RM 20 for adults) for the unparalleled views of the city.
Architecture: It would be a crime not to mention Melaka’s wondrous architecture that reflects its superbly diverse history. A quick stroll from the town centre will have you casting eyes upon ruins of an original Portuguese fortress, the Chinese built Cheng Hoon Teng temple and the visually striking Christ Church, built by the Dutch. The city really is a smorgasbord of contrasting culture and design free for all to enjoy.
Melaka’s architecturally interesting Christ Church. 