Perched midway in the Straits of Melaka, is a state that is abundantly rich, not just in natural resources but also history and folklore. Melaka is where it all began...
|
I arrived at Melaka in the morning after one and a half hour of driving along the North-South Highway from Kajang.
Founded by Parameswara in 1396 who named his sultanate after the Melaka tree, Melaka has provided the stage on which the Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and English played their roles in shaping history.
Today, Melaka posesses a charm that is all its own. Hail a trishaw for a ride along little streets that wind through a colourful mishmash of architectural styles. Cruise along Melaka river, then walk along hillocks that have tales to tell, of warfare and treachery, romance and heartbreak. This historical city is without a doubt unbeatable.
To Get There
By BUS
- approx. RM 8 from KL, RM 5 from Seremban, RM 27 from Butterworth, RM 33 from Alor Setar, RM 13 from Johar Bahru, RM 18 from Kuantan.
By RAIL
- visitors can get off the train at Tampin station. Call Keretapi Tanah Melayu Tampin station for schedule and fares.
- Tel: 606.441.1034
|
|
| Favourite spots: |
|
Standing on top of St. Paul's Church overlooking the whole city and the sea. Although the sea was not clearly visible from here because there's some tree blocking the view but this only made it more, how should I say, unique. From there we can watch the sunset, which I think will be exceptionally beautiful, but I didn't wait for that moment to come. At that moment I told myself save it for the next time, but now I wish I didn't chose to leave. Imagine you are on top of this ruins, looking down, ah...........
|
|
| What's really great: |
One of the attraction in Melaka is its food. Baba Nyonya, name for Malay-Chinese mix that happens at early times of Melaka Empire. One of the restaurants I visited is Ole Sayang Restaurant. They have this fried rice that is the best I've ever had in my life (so far :P). The price was average at about RM 9 a dish for one person. Another must-try is the Baba Nyonya dumpling. I forgot what is the name of the restaurant already but be sure to find it while you are in the city. It is very delicious and I had that for my lunch during my 3-day stay.
|
|
| Sights: |
omg!! This is Melaka! 1000 characters is not enough!!! The most famous building here is The Stadhuys. Based upon Dutch architecture, the original structure and façade have been restored and maintained in their original form. Now, the building is being used as a Historic and Ethnography Museum. Some of the exhibits that you will see at the Stadhuys are relics and traditional costumes from the past. Right next to it is Christ Church. The guard the told me that Christ church is an Anglican parish and is the oldest functioning Prostestant church in Malaysia. Another must is A' Famosa. You can’t say you have been to Malacca if you have not visited the A’ Famosa. One of the most famous structures in Malacca and definitely one of the oldest surviving examples of European architecture in Asia. British once wanted to destroy it but was saved by Sir Stanford Raffles who held a strong passion for history.
|
|
| Accommodations: |
Century Mahkota Hotel (4 Stars)
I stayed here during my stay. Great service, good facilities, clean room. It's just next to the sea (no beach here though) and opposite the largest shopping centre in Melaka City (probably the only) Mahkota Parade.
Jalan Merdeka,
75000 Malacca
Tel: (+606) 2812828
Fax: (+606) 2812323
|
|
| Other recommendations: |
Cheng Hoon Teng is the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia. This Unesco merit award winner for restoration work is lacated at Jalan Tekong.
No. 25, Jalan To’kong
75200 Malacca
Malaysia
Tel: (606) 282 9343
Fax: (606) 286 1889
The Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum is a privately held museum. Before this I've never heard that they actually have this small peeking hole on the first floor to see who is knocking the door downstairs. Guess what happens if that person is not welcomed. They pour boiling water down through the hole!!!
50-51 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock
75200 Malacca
Tel: (+606) 283 1273
Fax: (+606) 283 1273
Opening Hours: 10 am to 4.30 pm
St Francis Xavier's Church is dedicated to the Apostle of the East, St Francis Xavier, the church is a well-known landmark in Malacca. St Francis Xavier is well remembered for his missionary work during the 16th century and his mission remained the cornerstone of this church.
|
|
Published on Thursday February 3th, 2005
|
|
Publish on Facebook
|
Thu, Feb 03 2005 - 04:19 PM
 by britman
| Unhibited natural report, well illustrated, giving an outstanding personal view of an exciting city...well done! |
| Information: |
| Login if you are a member, or sign up for a free membership to rate this report and to earn globo points! |
|
|
