Best Bars In Malacca That The City Has To Offer

February 13, 2024

Malacca, also spelt as Melaka, has changed a lot since the lockdown and the next time you find yourself in this historical town while on your trip to Malaysia, be sure to check out some of the best, most interesting bars, including a 100-year-old one.

Malacca is known for many things, especially being home to a rich and culturally diverse environment. With travel back in full swing now, a short trip here is always a good idea. There is plenty to discover, from heritage hotels to cafes. And since the historic city is also known as one of the best places to visit to eat to your heart’s content, you might forget that it also has plenty of great bars.

The bar scene in Malacca has recently upped its ante, with names like BUDI that offer more than just potent cocktails. Others, like the 100-year-old Sin Hiap Hin, well, let history do the talking.

There are also plenty of old-school bars readily available, featuring the background of the rich history of one of Malaysia’s oldest states. Checking out these best bars in Malacca may be the perfect reason to plan a trip.

8 best bars in Malacca to visit:

Jonker Street is one of the more livelier places within the city of Malacca and rightfully so, as there is always something going on. However, Jonker Street is also popular mainly due to the Geographer Café, which cannot be missed as it’s one of the biggest bars around the area. It embodies the term ‘east meets west’ while maintaining its warm ambience and old charm. The Geographer Café also serves up a wide array of dishes, which ranges from your classic Western dishes as well as local delicacies. It also has plenty of beer choices on tap as well as wine and other liquors.

**Address:** 83, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka

**Phone:** +06-2816813

Hatten Hotel is considered to be one of the more luxurious stays you can find when in Malacca. The hotel is set against a picturesque vista of Malacca’s most famous historical landmarks and on the 22nd floor lies Alto Sky Lounge. It brings a whole new definition to the term “a new height of luxury” with a breathtaking view of the cityscape right before your eyes. Alto Sky Lounge also offers a wide variety of drinks, from cocktails to fine wines. Be sure to dress appropriately as Alto Sky Lounge does have a strict ‘smart casual’ dress code.

**Address:** Hatten Square, Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia

**Phone:** +60 6-286 9696

It appears Malacca has also caught up with the times with its very own speakeasy bar known as The Old Merchant. From a first glance, The Old Merchant carries a heavy oriental vibe to its atmosphere as it was evolved from an ancient private bank that dates back to the 1920s. The speakeasy is also located along Jalan Kampung Pantai, which was the original Chinatown back in 15th-century Malacca. The Old Merchant also sticks true to the heritage of being a speakeasy as it will be a bit of a task to locate.

**Address:** 88, Jalan Kampung Pantai, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia

**Phone:** +60 19-627 9020

*Image credit: The Old Merchant 滙庄/Facebook*

If you’re looking to liven up your evening, the Hard Rock Cafe in Malacca is the place to be. The franchise has been around since the 1970s with its rock & roll themed memorabilia that adorn its walls. Fans of old-school rock & roll are in for a treat as Hard Rock Cafe has plenty of that and more. It also offers a wide spread of dishes and drinks for one to pick from while you go back through the golden years of rock & roll. You can also walk away with Hard Rock Cafe souvenirs from its gift shop, located within the premises.

**Address:** 28, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka

**Phone:** +606-2925188

*Image credit: Hard Rock Cafe Melaka/Facebook*

Inspired by the golden days of Dondang Sayangs clubs, BUDI Melaka is a hidden bar that offers more than just a good ol’ Old Fashioned. Sin See Tai cafe by day, and BUDI Melaka by night, the bar serves a bevvy of unique cocktails made using local produce including a vegetable-forward menu that incorporates homegrown ingredients like bittergourd, eggplant, corn and sweet pea into its concoction. The multi-level bar is eccentrically designed, giving a sense of mystery and cosiness at the same time. We recommend that you make a reservation before heading over because seats are pretty limited.

**Address:** 16, Kampung Jawa, 75100 Melaka

**Phone:** +6017-7188269

*Image credit: Budi/Facebook*

Sin Hiap Hin — If you’re looking for something authentic and old-school, your visit to Melaka will not be complete without a drink at the 100-year-old vintage bar at Java Lane. This drinking hole is a living heritage and is managed by Aunty Doris, the bartender in charge of serving and pouring you some of the most unconventional spirits in the market. She’s been with the bar for over 40 years, and it is raved about for its rustic saloon-style bar that’s unpretentious yet charming. When visiting the oldest bar in historical Melaka, you’ll get more than cocktails and shots, but anecdotes of good ol’ Malacca from the owner herself.

**Address:** 5, Kampung Jawa, 75200 Melaka

*Image credit: tripadvisor*

They say the best way to explore Malacca city is by foot. If you happen to be around the heritage zone, Tipsy Bridge is a must-go for a tipple. It’s tucked in an alleyway off the main road, along Jalan Kampung Pantai across Kampung Jawa Bridge (where Sin See Tai or BUDI Melaka is). Its neon-lit signage is quite hard to miss. The little street here is quite happening at night, with upbeat music and neighbouring cafes like Tuju Cafe and The Bridge Cafe.

**Address:** Jalan Kampung Pantai, Dalam Lorong Jabatan, 75200 Melaka

**Phone:** +6011-2682 3038

*Image credit: tipsybridgeauthentic/Instagram*

Located adjacent to the famous Jonker Street, Reggae on the River is a riverside bar that allows you to chill al-fresco style while having a pint of beer or tequila shots. It’s a popular drinking place among the locals and offers a nice view of the vibrant Melaka River.

**Address:** 88, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka

**Phone:** +6010-2716871

*Image credit: Reggae On The River/Facebook*

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Pulau Besar: Awesome Island in Johor for an Exotic Beach & Scuba Diving Vacation

February 19, 2024

Pulau Besar has an ancient name called Pulau Babi Besar which stands for “Big Boars Island”.

Due to the inhabitation of man, the number of wild boars decreases and its name changed to Pulau Besar at present.

Set within nature beauty, Pulau Besar is the tropical paradise on earth.

The island is fringed by swaying palm trees, dazzling waters and it has the finest white sands that can comfort your feet.

Established resorts complete your short trips from Singapore in Pulau Besar.

Why Stay In Pulau Besar?

Located 15km off the east coast of Johor, Pulau Besar is surrounded by many other scattered islands. Clean, peaceful and attractive are not enough to describe this beautiful island.

The water is so clear that even tiny sea creatures and the coral reef can be seen from the water surface.

Also read: 10 Best Haven Islands off Mersing, Johor

Due to the wide range of marine life offered, the island is appointed as Marine Park to preserve them. Decent tropical jungles offer numerous unique flora and fauna for nature lovers. Jungle trekking is a recommended activity on the island. Research on nature can be done too.

Fewer people know that overseas survival programmes and films have been shot in Pulau Besar. The resorts were once closed due to the filming progress. To make the locals proud, even overseas programmes have acclaimed Pulau Besar as a beautiful island.

Various water sports activities such as canoeing, diving, snorkeling, and swimming can be enjoyed on Pulau Besar. These activities make you stay more enjoyable and more interesting.

How To Get To Pulau Besar

Mersing jetty is the only gateway to Pulau Besar. You can get to Mersing jetty by coach or car. The journey takes around 3 hours depending on traffic condition.

1. Bus To Pulau Besar From Singapore

These coaches will bring you directly to Mersing jetty. The bus fare costs SGD35 on average. Bus tickets can be booked online.

Transnasional Coach Services

Pick-up point: The Plaza@ Beach Road

One Travel & Tours

Pick up point: Golden Mile Complex

WTS Travel Singapore Flyer

Pick up point: Textile Centre

What To Do In Pulau Besar

The environment and weather of Pulau Besar are great for water sports and beach activities. Sunny days and calm coast offer the best experience for the visitors. Activities that can be enjoyed on the island are:

Jungle trekking
Visit to kelong – experience the daily lives of local fishermen
Snorkeling
Fishing
Island Hopping
Scuba-diving
Beach volleyball
Canoeing
Beach futsal
Visit treehouse
Swinging hamster
Relax in hammock around the beach
Photo Shooting
Leisure stroll

Also read: 16 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor

There are a few souvenir shops selling local products on the island. Buy some souvenirs here for friends or keep them as your memory.

Where To Stay In Pulau Besar

1. Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar

Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar is a 3-star resort located within a stone throws distance from the white sandy beach. Offering an exciting and relaxing travel experience at once, the resort makes your dream summer holiday becomes real.

The wooden resort blends wonderfully into the natural environment of Pulau Besar. It features 47 beachfront rooms that are all furnished in traditional style, offering a classic and conventional environment.

It’s inevitable to feel the warm hospitality from their attentive and passionate staffs.

Also read: 15 Best Beach Resorts in Johor You’ll Absolutely Love

Kayu Manis Restaurant, the on-site restaurant, offers you the finest dining experience. Various local and international cuisines are cooked by their experienced chef.

Aseania Beach Resort At Besar Island

As beach facilities and equipment for water sport activities are provided, guests need not bring them along. To give some privacy and solitude, a beach hut facing the sea is offered.

On the island, there are unlimited spots for sightseeing and photographing. Take some pictures home and keep them as one of your precious memories.

Office Address: Lot 33, 34 & 35, Pulau Besar, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Contact:+607 – 797 0058
3D2N Package: RM540 – RM590, click here for more details -> Pulau Besar Package

2. D’Coconut Island Resort

D’Coconut Island Resort is a famous resort strategically located in Pulau Besar. Because of the excellent services and facilities they provide, the resort has a lot of returning guests each year. Many of their guests turn into friends.

Rooms provided are ranged from the terrace, standard rooms, deluxe rooms, executive deluxe rooms to family rooms.

The room rates are affordable and additional charges of RM40 will be imposed during public holidays. These rooms feature an en-suite bathroom and a mini-fridge.

Take advantage of its strategic location by indulging yourself in the water activities provided such as snorkeling, canoeing, island hopping, beach volleyball, and fishing trips.

The resort features a swimming pool and a pool bar for relaxation. For business travelers, the resort is well-equipped with conference facilities. After long day activities, take pleasure at the on-site restaurant for a delightful meal.

Contact: +603 – 4252 6686, +603 – 4296 5753
Fax: +603 – 4252 2689

3. Nirwana Beach Resort Mersing

Nestled in Pulau Besar, Nirwana Beach Resort Pulau Besar has welcomed lots of local and international tourists each year. Due to its cosy atmosphere, it’s pleasant to spend a few days of holidays here to be totally indulged in the wonders of nature.

The resort features Malay style chalets and dormitory style chalets. These chalets come with an en-suite bathroom and modern amenities to provide utmost comfort. The restaurant serves local and western cuisines that are simple and delightful.

To convenience the guests, it offers cheap packages that include accommodation fees, meals and returns boat transfer. If you wish to enjoy BBQ dinner, additional charges are imposed.

Beach is within a few steps from the resort. Guests get to enjoy snorkeling, fishing, diving and island hopping during their stay. If you wish to stay indoors, a pool table is provided for leisure. Otherwise, simply take a stroll and watch stunning sunset along the beach.

Address: 20A, Jalan Ismail, 86800 Pulau Besar, Mersing, Johor, Malaysia.

4. Mirage Island Resort

Mirage Island Resort offers a different type of unique designed chalets ranging from A-frame chalet, family chalet to sea view chalet. Among the chalets, A-frame chalet will be the most economical.

All are equipped with air-conditioning, clean beds, bathroom and resting chairs on the outdoor terrace. If you are looking for a luxury stay on this island, this resort is not your choice.

For the 3 days, 2 nights stay package, the price per pax ranging from RM425 to RM620. The package includes accommodation, food, and speedboat (Mersing-resort-Mersing).

When Is The Best Time To Visit Pulau Besar

To ensure safety, Pulau Besar does not welcome visitors during monsoon season (October to March). The sea is rough and the wind is strong and fast. Thus, water sports are prohibited to keep visitors safe. Many resorts close their doors within this period too.

June to August is the summertime in Malaysia. This time period has great weather for water sports and many other activities. Boat transfers are less influenced by unfavorable tidal conditions. Thus, it is recommended to visit Pulau Besar between June to August.

Pulau Besar Travel Tips

There are a lot of sand flies on the beach. Remember to bring insect repellent.
Snorkeling equipment is not available in Mirage Island Resort.
Chalet does not provide any shampoos, body wash liquid and remember to bring on your own.
Mobile signal coverage on the island is not good. Therefore, it is a good opportunity to keep you away from the phone.
No ATM is available at Pulau Besar. Therefore, you need to bring enough cash to pay for your accommodation and drink.
There is no medical infrastructure on the island and don’t have any trained staff in first aid. If anything serious happens, you need to take the boat back to Mersing.
Most resorts closed on monsoon season (around November to February).
Only Aseania Resort Pulau Besar and D’Coconut Island Resort have a swimming pool.

9 Best Places To Buy Souvenirs At Jonker Street

March 17, 2024

9 Places To Buy Souvenirs In Jonker Street

Planning to buy some souvenirs for your loved ones after a wonderful vacation at Malacca but don’t know where to go?

This article gonna help you a lot!

To make your souvenirs shopping experience less hassle, we’ve find you the most sought-after souvenirs shop near the Jonker Street.

In this way, you don’t need to travel all around Malacca to find them!

Whether it is delicious local food products, lovely T-shirts, locally made handicrafts, beauty products or even art paintings, all of them can be purchased at reasonable prices.

There must be one that your family and friends will keep it as treasure!

Let’s search for it!

9 Best Places To Shop At Jonker Street For Souvenirs

1. San Shu Gong (三叔公)

With eye-catching red building, San Shu Gong is an all-in-one souvenir shop where you can grab all local goodies for friends.

Wide range of food items are offered here. Mostly they will provide samples in a small container. Try it first and decide your purchase later.

For durian lovers, a very unique food recommended for you is their durian jam. The taste is exotic and amazing. They also sell many authentic Nyonya pastries for those who enjoy Nyonya food.

If you want to take a break, just head to the Lao Qian Ice Café at second storey to enjoy heavenly cendol and white coffee. Then, you can continue shopping at anytime!

2. LW Nyonya Pineapple Tarts House

Pineapple tarts can be found anywhere over the Malaysia but if you want to have the authentic Nyonya Pineapple Tarts, you should go to the LW located in Malacca.

Also read: 11 Best Cafes In Jonker Street

You know you have come to the right place when you see a giant pineapple tart displayed in front of the store. In 2004, this giant tart has been awarded the largest pineapple tart baked in Malaysia Book of Records.

Made from margarine, their pineapple tarts come with different flavour such as original butter flavour and pandan flavour. The pineapple jam inside has a very strong pineapple flavour and it is slightly fibrous.

Besides pineapple tarts, they sell variety of aromatic pastry which gives you the moreish taste.

Address: 95, Jalan Kubu, Batu Berendam, 75300 Melaka, Malaysia.
Contact: +606-281 1626
Opening Hours:
Daily: 10:00am – 8:00pm

3. Nyonya Story Enterprise

With more than 20 years of pastry making experience, the master chef at Nyonya Story Enterprise makes plenty of cookies and local delicacies for sale. The best part is, they offer samples for most of the pastries.

Also read: 12 Best Restaurants In Jonker Street

Pineapple tart is their signature. With a unique buttery taste, the sticky-sweet pineapple jam inside could just melt inside your mouth yet it still retains its thread-like fibre.

Sometimes, you might be able to catch the samples right from the hot oven. And most of the time, you probably want to finish the whole box just after one bite.

You can pre-order the pineapple tarts here for Chinese New Year.

Address: 128, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Friday to Sunday: 10:00am – 12:00am

4. Orang Utan House

Opened in 1992, Orang Utan House is established by a famous local artist named Charles Cham. Originally this is a studio gallery showcasing all his art work but now, it transforms into a shop selling souvenirs and his lovely canvas artwork.

This shop is highly noticeable by the huge orang utan mural on the exterior wall of the building. Many visitors love to take photographs here.

Inside, there is a collection of contemporary paintings for sale. However, most people are here for their creative and one-of-a-kind T-shirts.

Well-designed and well-printed by the artist, the T-shirts boasts quirky taglines or inspirational quotes on it. The quality of these T-shirts are excellent too!

Customers are not allowed to take pictures in the shop.

Address: 59, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia.
Contact: +606-282 6872
Opening Hours:
Daily: 10:00am – 6:00pm

5. 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 Malacca.

6. Jing Yuan Biscuit & Bakery (京园食品)

Jing Yuan is a humble bakery that sells pastries for many years. Once stepping at the entrance of the bakery, you instantly smell the aroma of the pastries they made.

Also read: 19 Best Jonker Street Night Marke Food You Should Not Miss!

Wide array of tasty biscuits is sold here. Among all, Chicken Floss Tou Sar Kok tops the list of customers’ favourite. It gradually becomes the signature snack at Jing Yuan.

Chicken Floss Tou Sar Kok is fresh made every day and manually packed by the staff. With a layer of tasty chicken floss on the top, it boasts a very crunchy outer but a big twist in inner texture. Inside, the sweet fillings are very smooth and soft. It feels like a sweet melting in your mouth.

They sell delicious Tau Sar Piah (bean paste pastry) as well. If you are a fan of it, grab a pack home!

Address: No.45-D, Jalan Ong Kim Wee, Melaka, 75300 Malacca, Malaysia.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 8:00am – 9:00pm

7. Tan Kim Hock Product Centre

With over 100 food products sold within the premise, Tan Kim Hock Product Centre is an immensely famous souvenir shop among the locals and tourists.

Some of the food products are considered rare products because they can only be found in Malacca. But if you wonder how they taste, samples are available for customers.

Also read: Top 10 Attractions Near Jonker Street

All food products here are made from the raw materials that are grown at the estate of the company. Then, the food is processed at the company’s factories. This is to ensure the authenticity of food products.

Outside the shopping area there is a cendol stall operated by the store. You can have the durian cendol to cool yourself down in the hot afternoon.

Things you can buy:

Coconut candy
Gula Melaka
Medicated nutmeg balm
Cincalok
Dodol

Address: 85,87 &89, Jalan Bendahara, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia.
Contact: +606-281 2763
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Friday: 9:00am – 7:00pm
Saturday & Public Holidays: 9:00am – 8:00pm

8. Sweet Summer Cottage

Featuring beautiful white furniture and floral decoration, Sweet Summer Cottage offers many beauty products made from natural ingredients. It truly sells the perfect souvenirs for ladies!

The most significant beauty product of Sweet Summer Cottage is the homemade soap. Using the traditional European method, the soap does not contain any chemical elements that harm our skin.

If you have sensitive skin, don’t worry because the homemade soaps are formulated to suit the weather in Malaysia and sensitive skin too. Just ask the staff to recommend the soap that suits your skin.

Things you can buy:

Homemade soap
Shampoos
Hair conditioners
Insect Repellents
Makeup
Lip Balms
Perfumes
Mask

Address: No.18, Jalan Hang Lekir, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia.
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 10:00am – 6:30pm
Friday & Saturday: 11:00am – 12:00pm

9. Ah Lan Beaded Shoes & Accessories (娘惹鞋专卖店)

Established in the 80’s, the shop sells handmade Nyonya beaded shoes and accessories which the owners seem to expertise in making it. They have been making hand-craft shoes for more than 30 years before the establishment.

The Nyonya beaded shoes are made from either leather materials or silk materials. Apart from that, they offer many kinds of beaded shoes such as tiny beads, cross strap, open toes and closed toes. All are delicately made by hand.

Sometimes, you will see them working on the beaded shoes in the shop. You’ll truly be amazed at their artwork.

Besides beaded shoes, they sell dancing shoes too. However, this is only available under special requests.

Things you can buy:

Nyonya beaded shoes
Ladies’ scandals
Bound feet shoes
Beaded bags
Nyonya sarong kebaya

Address: 84, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia.
Contact: +606-283 0957
Opening Hours:
Daily: 10:00am – 7:00pm

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The Best Street Food To Savour In Melaka, Malaysia – JomLooka says: Reply

February 13th 2024, 4:39 am

[…] the main reasons people flock to Melaka is for its food. The city is famous for its unique blend of cultural and colonial cuisine, which can be found right in the heart of the […]

Best Bars In Malacca That The City Has To Offer

8 best bars in Malacca to visit:

Pulau Besar: Awesome Island in Johor for an Exotic Beach & Scuba Diving Vacation

Why Stay In Pulau Besar?