Melaka was once a thriving trading port. Today, it is full of history!
Due to Melaka’s (previously also spelt Malacca) mix of culture, traces of countries from the East (China and Japan) and the West (Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom) can be found. Although it no longer enjoys centuries of glory, it is still a melting pot of culture, building itself through ancient conquests and trade.
In 2008, the city was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List for its old town architecture and glorious history. Today it is one of Malaysia’s best tourist attractions.
Since the distance was only 150km we chose to drive ourselves to Melaka. We arrived at the Ginger Flower Hotel in the centre of Melaka around 6 pm, which is ideally located along the Melaka River. The converted Chinese shophouse has rooms that are small but comfortable, stylishly decorated, with very modern marble and glass ensuite bathrooms.
We planned to explore Melaka on foot the next day, so we made a simple itinerary to guide us round Melaka’s best! Most of the famous attractions are located near Jonker Street. After unloading our luggage, we strolled the streets in search of local cuisine and enjoyed the local night scenes by the river. It was very beautiful with colourful lights and the river cruise boats passing by every few minutes. A truly relaxing atmosphere to start our weekend break.
Melaka River Cruise
It is a slow-moving river that spans the city. Whether you choose to walk, cycle or take a cruise, this tour will give you an understanding of the city. It is best to choose to walk or cycle before 10am, in the late afternoon or evening, to avoid the hottest temeperatures. Evening cruises are the most attractive, as every store is lit up with colourful, bright lights, and the sparkling light from the reflection of water makes the city shine!
If you choose to walk, you will find the small city clean, safe and easy to get around, even if you are in a group or with small children. The graffiti here along the Jalankamp Gourd is colourful and intriguing, and street art lovers will find a lot to see and enjoy.
Attractions:
River Tour: The Melaka River Cruise runs daily between 9:00 am and 11:30 p.m. and is well worth the affordable cost because the attractions are great when seen from the river. The Melaka River is not very wide. This allows you to get up close and personal with the city’s attractions.
Evening River Tour: If you choose to cruise the river at night most of the buildings on both sides of the river have bright decorative lights that create flashing reflections in the water that make the city’s architecture really shine.
Melaka Hard Rock Café and the riverside restaurants
Featuring outdoor and indoor dining areas, Hark Rock Cafe offers a fresh and high-quality menu that includes 10 ounces of outstanding burgers and special drinks such as margaritas, hurricanes and other non-alcoholic beverages.
They only use premium beef, and their burgers are roasted to perfect and compliment french fries. For vegetarians, they also offer vegetarian-friendly burgers! For dessert, their highlight is the hot gumpos brownie. Their brownie cake is served with vanilla ice cream and served with chocolate, chopped walnuts and cherries. So far, the cafe has welcomed contemporary and legendary musicians from all over the world. Their pictures adorn the walls inside. Also, look at their “shop”. They sell T-shirts, hats, socks and so on.
You are of course paying a premium for the franchise and décor but is a cool bar in a prime location overlooking the river. There are steps alongside Hard Rock that go down to the paved area that runs alongside the river and links the bridges together. This runs past small restaurants and bars in converted shophouses. They all serve cheapish food and many serve alcohol at similar prices.
Explore Melaka on a day 2 walk.
After waking up naturally (no alarm clock) and having had a good breakfast, we began our expedition and headed off to Cheng Ho’s Cultural Museum on Jonker Street.
It is said that without Cheng Ho (Zheng He, mandarin spelling), Melaka would not be what it is today npr would man the development of diplomatic relations between China and Melaka. The museum showcases Cheng Ho’s wisdom and incredible grasp of international relations.
This museum is one of the original large houses in Melaka and from the museum guide we learnt that many of his soldiers and bodyguards got married to locals. They eventually formed the Straits Chinese (Baba and Nyonya) community. Seriously, this place can’t be missed, especially if you’re a fan of history.
Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum
The Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum showcases The incredible history of Baba Nyonya, Chinese local Malay culture in the Channel. The people are often referred to as the Peranakans.
The museum is privately run by descendants of the Chen family, once the richest family in town. They restored all the furniture and made it exactly the typical Papanonia residence as it would have been in the nineteenth century. The three-story museum is beautifully designed, from the outside to the interior. Rooms feature hand-painted tiles, carved teak doors and Venetian shutters, and even a range of wooden furniture and gold leaf fixtures.
They offer tours in the museum to explain the rich lifestyle and culture of Peranakan in the past. They will guide you through the details of traditional food, clothing styles, furniture and even their marriage ceremonies.
Red Square (Holland Square)
Do you like photogenic places where you can walk around and immersing yourself in rich historical heritage?
There is a large fountain in the centre of the square to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. The whole area is full of activities and attractions. As a result, it is crowded with tourists from all over the world, even locals from other states. You always see them capture photos in every corner to get the best angle.
The history in this place is huge. You will experience the history of the Dutch period and further back the time of the Malay Empire to the day of the Portuguese invasion. Holland Square, also known as Red Square, is part of Melaka and inspired the city to be designated as a World Heritage Site. It is located to the south of the city, close to the Fort and St. John Hill.
You can’t miss Queen Victoria’s fountain because it’s in the middle of Holland Square. Built in 1904 by the people of Melaka in memory of Queen Victoria Regina, it has been well preserved and offers a good photo opportunity. Britain’s commemorative tributes are also impressive. Old habits die hard, every time I see a fountain, I have to make a wish and drop a coin in the water. This time is no exception. I made a wish, I hope it will come true!
On our way to the Queen Victoria Fountain, we took a lot of pictures in Red Square (also known as Holland Square). It dates back to the 17th century and reflects Melaka’s history from Dutch colonization to the present day. The name says it all – yes, it’s red, always filled with market stalls, look and a great place to find out the history of Melaka. The place is alive with food and souvenir stalls, buildings, people and those crazily decorated mobile discos that double as tri-shaws. This place really goes back to the glory days of the Dutch Empire.
Melaka Stadhuys and Christ Church
When you come to Melaka, don’t forget to visit Stadthuys. It is home to a history and ethnography museum, spread out over two floors. The bottom floor is devoted to the Malay culture and its exhibits feature artifacts, weapons, dress, and daily life. Upstairs are rooms dedicated to each of the period of Melaka’s rich history, beginning with the Sultanate and extending through the Japanese occupation. Actually, there is also a third floor with an exhibit dedicated to Cheng Ho, but it pales in comparison to the nearby Cheng-Ho Cultural Museum previously mentioned.
As we continued on to our next destination, I couldn’t wait to get a bird’s eye view of Melaka.
Hike to a hill full of history and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Built in 1521, St. Paul’s Church was once a fortress defence building. Mount Sao Paulo is well worth the hike, both the Portuguese and the Dutch left their mark there. The ruins of St. Paul’s Church are located at the top of Mount St. Paul and have only been partially preserved due to the destruction during the war. The inscriptions of Portuguese tombstones provide insight into history, but it would be nice if there was a guide to tell the story better. After a short walk, you can enjoy amazing views of the city from the top of the hill. The local authorities have maintained and protected the place well. Inscriptions of tombstones and relics will give you some understanding of the history of the church.
Iconic Portuguese architecture of historical value
Fort Farmosa is a popular tourist destination and an important historical landmark. You’d better visit the fort in the morning to avoid crowds. You can also takes pictures in front of the old cannon, which was used for defence during the era. Apart from the re-built gatehouse and a few noticeboards to read in the gardens behind there isn’t really too much to see here.
Florama Maritime Museum
Next we called in at the Florama Maritime Museum. This is a replica of a Portuguese ship that sank off the coast of Melaka.
The museum is actually a replica of the Florama ship from Portugal, which sank off the coast of Portugal after shipping the lorry from Melaka. You can find some interesting documents, artifacts and exhibitions in a replica of Melaka’s Golden Age. Certainly the place was full of kids enjoying themselves and it is probably one of the better places to interest them.
Church of St. Francis Xavier
The Church of St. Francis Xavier was built in 1856 and is located in Jalan Lak Samana. This is a catholic church built by a French mission. It’s a nice example of colonial era architecture, built in a Neo-Gothic style with twin spires at the front of the entrance, but otherwise painted predominantly plain white with yellow borders.
We needed food!
Time was passing and our stomaches were sending us a message, we’re hungry! We took a short walk to the other side of the river and lined up for lunch at Hoe Kee because when you’re in Malacca, you just have to have the chicken rice balls and you have to try them either at Hoe Kee or Chung Wah. This place is always very busy, the queue was very long, about 30-40 people.
While waiting we tried Nyonya cendol, soft and delicate smoothies, with the local traditional gula Melaka and other ingredients, this cold and instant treat makes you want to eat it again.
After waiting, we ordered the semi-steamed Hainan-style chicken and rice balls. These are cooked with chicken soup and It was delicious! Compared to other chicken meals, these Kampong chicken bites are more tastey and the tender and juicy chicken is a perfect match for the delicious rice balls.
We left with a full stomach as we strolled on to continue exploring more Melaka attractions.
Worship in Malaysia's oldest temple
Built in 1645, Chengxiong Teng Temple undoubtedly provides a peaceful, tranquil environment for visitors to pray. You will be fascinated by the architectural style and the carvings of this Buddhist temple. This place is mostly away from tourists and is a good retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Jonker Gallery
To shop for exquisite and inexpensive souvenirs for your loved ones, Jonker Gallery is the ideal spot for you! Featuring locally-made handicrafts, Jonker Gallery is one of the largest retailers selling souvenirs in Melaka. There are several Jonker Gallery outlets scattered all over the Jonker Street. Some items are only sold at certain outlets. Jonker Gallery is also a boutique selling pretty clothes for ladies. The blouses and shirts with cute flower prints are pretty and they sell unique and quirky t-shirts.
A-lan Ball shoes and accessories
Founded in the 1980s and selling handmade Nyonya beaded shoes and accessories, the owner certainly has expertise in making them. They have been making handmade shoes for more than 30 years. Nyonya beaded shoes are made of leather or silk. In addition, they offer many kinds of beaded shoes, such as small beads, cross straps, open toes and closed toes. It’s all handcrafted and exquisite.
Sometimes you’ll see them making beaded shoes in the store. You’ll be really surprised by their work. In addition to beaded shoes, they also sell dancing shoes.
San Shu Gong (Uncle Three)
How can a trip be done without buying local food?
We arrived at eye-catching red building The Uncle Three Shopping Centre, at the head of Jonker Street. San Shu Gong is an all-in-one souvenir shop where you can grab goodies for friends, including a wide range of food items. If you ask they will provide samples in a small container. Try it first and decide your purchase later. Many people leave the place with baskets of products such as shrimp, crab, seaweed, sesame snacks, curedfish biscuits, dried sweet cucumbers, dried mangoes, wolffish biscuits, pickled cucumbers, gulamarine and white coffee.
If you want to take a break, just head to the Lao Qian Ice Café on the second storey to enjoy heavenly cendol and white coffee. Then you can continue shopping!
Famous Night Market
Jonker Street
There's a saying that if you haven't been to Jonker Street, you haven't been to Malacca!
Dubbed Jonker Street, Jonker Walking Street or Jonker Hangjebout Street, this street is a very attractive place in Malacca and is located in the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. It is a world-famous street with its rich collection of authentic antiques, culture and architecture; most of the shops here are from the 17th century, which makes them centuries old. During Dutch colonial times, it was the street where the Dutch masters owned their homes. Soon, wealthy locals began to live in the area, and they opened shops. The street has a strong Chinese influence.
The whole of Jonker Street was closed to all traffic, and stalls sell finger food, local cuisine and interesting souvenirs. Although it caters to tourists, it retains its old charm in the middle of Melaka. You need to bargain, but most sellers are polite and will give you a good price. The night was so vibrant and filled with people, colours, smells and sounds.
Jonker walk Garden
The Jonker Walk Garden is a place to get some rest after a long walk. Washrooms are available here. The garden has sculptures of the famous Datuk Wira who is considered as the Father of Bodybuilders in Malaysia is also an advocate of turning Jonker Street into a highly touristic area.
Geographer's Cafe
Located in the corner of the shop, the Geographer’s Cafe is a meeting place for friends, especially at night. The charm of the cafe lies in its warm atmosphere. Most guests were surprised that the interior design perfectly blends Western and Oriental styles. In addition, the coffee shop also serves a variety of food, such as pasta, pizza, fried rice, satay and so on. Beers and spirits are also available at the coffee shop.
The special part about the cafe is that they have live performances every week by Miss Nadia and her father, Mr. Abed. Every Monday night, the two of them will play jazz, while every Friday and Saturday night, they will entertain guests with pop music.
Local cuisine at Melaka
1)Melaka Cendol Sugar /Nyonya Cendol
This is a traditional dessert made from shaved ice, coconut milk, green starchy noodles and panda seasonings and palm sugar. Other ingredients, such as red beans, milli rice, grass jelly, and creamy corn, may also be included. Each spoonful leaves a lingering sweetness and a creamy aftertaste of fresh coconut milk.
Originally from Indonesia, cendol has become the most-favoured ice dessert in Malaysia. Typically made from coconut milk, pandan flavour green rice noodles, shaved ice and palm sugar, the cendol is best to cool yourself down in a hot afternoon.
But in Melaka, the cendol is prepared by using Melaka sugar (a kind of locally made sugar) palm sugar.
At Jonker 88, they serve a really thick gula Melaka. With the coconut milk coatings, the cendol looks exactly a big scoop of vanilla ice-cream. They serve durian cendol as well. Go for it if you love durian.
While at Christina Ee Nyonya Cendol Shop, the green rice noodles top the bowl of cendol. Jelly and peanuts are scattered all over the shaved ice. You can order a durian flavour too!
2) Pork Lard Popiah
This is a fresh Spring Roll in Fujian/Chaozhou style. Popia is one of the better in Malacca, where egg wraps are generously filled with ingredients, sweet sauces and chilli sauces. Good stuff! The thickness of the egg skin packaging is in one, putting Popia together well. Moist, generously filled and filled with oomph from chilli sauce – what’s not to like? Popiah Filled with shredded vegetables, jicama and carrot, the nicely wrapped popiah is crunchy and givess a moreish taste.
At Poh Piah Lwee, the turnip inside their popiah is stewed in soy sauce to give a more flavourful taste. Also, they add more bean sprouts to contribute customers a fresh crunchiness. What makes their popiah special is they add fragrant pork lard into it. Nevertheless, it only has little oily taste and the lard is pretty enjoyable. You can still enjoy the sweetness of jicama and turnip at the same time.
3) Coconut Dessert
You can have all kinds of coconut desserts at Bikini Toppings! Whether it is coconut drinks mixed with fruits, coconut shake, coconut ice-cream, coconut waffle or the real coconut, the stall could please all your coconut craving.
For the coconut shake, they use the fresh coconut water and add the coconut ice-cream on top. It is flavourful and milky in overall.
Try out their coconut jelly too. Served in a hug coconut husk, it is made from coconut flesh and the coconut juice. It is so rich in the coconut taste yet it tastes not overly sweet. You can order the coconut ice-cream too. They have Oreo and chocolate chips toppings to give a crunchy taste.
4) Fried Oyster Omelette
It is also known as the “fried oyster omelette” – due to the large number of eggs. Oysters are fresh, though small in size, and generous in number make up for it. As for myself, I have to say I like it. Eggs are delicious, I actually care about oysters – I just love them. Fried oysters can be found in some Malacca food court .
5) Nyonya Kuih
Nyonya Kuih (Kuih is the term for Malay cake) is a bite-sized dessert, colorful and generally considered a snack. Some are steamed and some are roasted, but most are sweet. My favorite Nyonya Kuih is Ondeh – ondeh (or onde – onde). It is either made from sweet potatoes or from cereal rice flour. Cute little ondeh-ondeh infused panda (screw leaf) juice, and filled with gulamaramucci (local sugar) or palm sugar, then rolled with some freshly grated coconut. When you take a bite, the palm sugar in it bursts in your mouth. This warm dessert seeps into your mouth. Just ignore the diet and start the day with these sweet and delicious little delicious things.
6) Klimkrip
Mille crépe is a French cake consisting of many crépe layers. The word “mille” means “a thousand” and means many layers. Enter Nader,but don’t expect to see a 1000-story cake. You won’t find any. Here’s what to expect – about twenty layers of lace bread with fresh cream and mayonnaise.
The top folds are usually sprinkled with sugar and loosened until the surface is caramel. The cream was delicate and strong enough that the cake did not collapse in the collapse of the fork. The pancakes on both sides are thin and crisp, and digging into the cake is like shoveling snow. Light and sweet, each bite produces a smoked sugar coat with delicate pancakes and cream layers. Sounds good – try it!
My productive day in Malacca was my first experience of this city and it inspired me to go further! Now, I’m trying to explore my next city, in just one day, and really say, I’m very excited!
