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*

Visited 59 times, 1 visit(s) today

Desaru Ostrich Farm: Discover Chickaboo In Johor Bahru (JB)

February 12, 2024

Don’t know where to go in Johor Bahru?

How about have a visit to Desaru Ostrich Farm, the only ostrich farm you can find in Johor.

Here, you can get up close or even can touch these unique and beautiful creatures.

Have an entertaining and educational tour along with many other great activities for everyone, especially if you’re an animal-loving person.

We’ve listed down many amazing things about ostriches, the attractions and other tours, just for you!

Let’s check Desaru Ostrich Farm review below and start planning for your weekend getaways from Singapore!

Desaru Ostrich Farm

This is one of the biggest Ostrich farms in Malaysia. Containing more than 200 ostriches, Desaru Ostrich farm is well known and famous across Asia.

It is located 28 minutes drive from Hard Rock Hotel Desaru. If you’re coming from Johor Bahru Checkpoint, it is about an hour drive.

The image below shows the main entrance to an ostrich farm. All the ostriches are kept behind this house.

One of its most attractive features is that you can get up close with the ostriches in the farm.

Not only is this interesting, but it is also immensely educational since you are able to learn quite a lot from observing the birds.

5 Things To Do In Desaru Ostrich Farm

There are lots of things to do in Desaru Ostrich Farm. Not just looking at the ostriches but also many different activities that will make your whole day filled with lots of fun and interesting memory of this place.

1. Purchase Souvenirs At Desaru Ostrich Farm

There are many interesting items that you can purchase in the Desaru Ostrich Farm. These items are great to use as souvenirs. Examples of these are ostriches egg, ostrich eggshell lamp, shoes, bags, oil and wallets made from ostrich’s meat and skin.

You don’t get to see ostrich eggshell lamp anywhere else. Hence, this is a really rare item that you can’t find any other place except here on this ostrich farm.

Image credits: sufentan.com

2. Taste Different Type of Dishes That Are Made From Ostrich Meat or Eggs

Have you ever try ostrich meat? These big birds can be eaten too and the meat sold here are really delicious.

Ostrich omelette and satay are highly recommended by the guide.

You will be surprised that ostrich meat can make into so many different foods as listed below:

Ostrich Teppanyaki
Ostrich Satay

Ostrich Burger
Ostrich Omelette

Ostrich Superior Soup
Ostrich Bak Kut Teh
Ostrich Nugget
and many more

Note: The taste of ostrich omelet is the same as chicken eggs and the only difference is it is more smooth in terms of texture. For the ostrich meat, it tastes more springy, juicier and tender than other red meats, plus the smell of ostrich meat is very strong.

I personally suggest you try ostrich food before visiting the farm.

WHY? You will probably don’t wish to eat that meat after you see the cute ostriches.

3. Feed Ostriches With Corn Kernels

Get close and personal with the ostriches! This is the best time to see and admire these amazing animals. Out of 200++ ostriches, you can get close to 2 ostriches. They are allowed to walk freely on the farm.

Therefore, you can feed these 2 ostriches with a bunch of vegetables or corn kernels. It is a really good experience and absolutely fun if you’d never get so close to these Chickaboos before.

4. Take Photo Together With Ostrich

Photos are memories that are best kept, so why not snap some pictures of yourself together with the animals to prove of your visit and of course to show your friends and family how beautiful these ostriches are!

Besides that, you can take photos with these 2 special ostriches that you’ve fed.

Info: please refer to ostrich caretakers on how to take a photo with the ostrich. You don’t want to agitate them.

5. Ride On The Ostrich

Most people ride horses or pony but ostrich riding is something of out the ordinary.

Though, on this farm, tourists get to ride on the ostriches of course for a small fee. This is one of the attractive attractions that many kids would love to try!

Attractions Near Desaru Ostrich Farm

1. Desaru Fruit Farm

Spanning over 180 acres, Desaru Fruit Farm is full of tropical fruits and so much more. This farm was recognized as the Best Agro-Tourism location in Malaysia in the year 2006.

It was also recognized as the most Innovative Tourism Attraction in 2010. As such, you can be sure of an exceptional experience on this amazing farm.

The management at this farm engages in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and also performs Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

There are many activities that go on in the Desaru Fruit Farm. Examples of these are the vegetable and the herbal gardens as well as the beekeeping location.

A typical tour of this farm begins with a guided journey through the farm. You get to enjoy the tropical fruits in their natural growth areas. You can also visit an agricultural gallery to see the different types of plants and crops on the farm.

You can also visit the fish pond. The experts in the farm raise various species of fish in the pond. The journey would not be complete without a visit to the petting zoo. Kids love this part of the journey.

Throughout the tour at Desaru Fruit Farm, all meals are provided to you. If you get hungry in between the meals, there is a mini-mart as well as fruit shops all over the farm.

Highlights
There are many types of tours and activities that you can engage in while at the Desaru Fruit Farm. They include:

1.1 One Day Desaru Tour

In this tour, you are able to learn as much as possible about the Desaru Fruit Farm. This is accomplished by visits to the agricultural gallery, the vegetable garden as well as the beekeeping program.

While here, you can sample the raw honey. A buffet lunch and a collection of fruits are provided to you throughout the tour. You can also buy some local fresh produce at the Mini Mart in the farm.

Also, you get to visit the crocodile farm, take a fireflies cruise and enjoy some lobster seafood for dinner. It is an all-inclusive tour for visitors to Desaru Fruit Farm.

1.2 Paintball War Games

The paintball war games are an amazing way to have fun in Desaru Fruit Farm. Suitable for adults and children alike, you can engage in battles on the professionally designed paintball arena in the farm.

Once you register and pay for a session, you are provided with the equipment that you need. This includes a marker, protective gear, 150 pellets, unlimited amounts of CO2 propulsion gas, mineral water, and a marshall.

You can have hours of fun in this arena and make some amazing memories at the Desaru Fruit Farm.

1.3 Fireflies Cruise

At this fruit farm, you can enjoy a cruise down a slow flowing river in the Kota Tinggi Firefly Park. In the evenings, there are millions of beautiful fireflies around you.

The sky lights up with these amazing insects and you get a romantic, serene feeling as you float among them. For 45 minutes, you are transported into a heavenly firefly world courtesy of the Desaru Fruit Farm.

1.4 Complete Adventure Tour

This is definitely the most exciting tour that you can take in the Desaru Fruit Farm. It is full of high octane activities that are bound to be fun for you, your family and your friends.

For RM150 per person, you can enjoy a whole range of activities on the farm. It is important to note that children under the age of 7 years are not allowed on this tour.

Moreover, the rule is that you need to have at least 6 people in your group so as to qualify for this tour.

In this adventure tour, you can enjoy a paintball war game with 200 pellets provided to you. You also enjoy go-kart rides as well as a guided tour of the farm. In addition to that, you can participate in high rope activities and enjoy a sumptuous fruit fiesta.

The whole tour takes approximately 6 hours. If you are a group of more than 40 people, you will need to contact the management and tour guides in advance so that arrangements can be made for you.

Students Package Tour
Fruit Farm Tour courtesy of Fruit Packet
Exciting Dirt Kart Ride
Seafood Lobster Dinner

2. Desaru Beach

In addition to the ostrich farm, you can stroll on Desaru Beach. It is well known for its white sands that are punctuated by amazing, colourful corals. The atmosphere on this beach is guaranteed to leave you feeling tranquil and serene.

Desaru beach is very famous with tourists. It is one of the best destinations for a short getaway from Singapore! Its white sands and turquoise blue waters are attractive to walk and swim in.

This beach is quite close to the fruit farm. As such, you can go on a tour of the fruit farm and enjoy the beach in the afternoon. There are hotels along the beach. Thus, it is easy to find some accommodation.

Highlights

You can play sports such as beach volleyball or even engage in some scuba diving. There is literally no limit to the activities that you can enjoy in this beach location.
There are some clubhouses too where you can have drinks and enjoy the music. The clubhouse is built like a log cabin to indicate the traditional culture of the local people. A trip to Desaru is not complete without a visit to the beach.
Once you are done with the beach, there is an amazing attraction located north of Desaru that is all about fresh, yummy fish. It is known as the Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum. Read on to learn more about this amazing attraction.

3. Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum

This is a picturesque fishermen museum that was built by the South Johor Development Authority (KEJORA).

It was built to showcase the traditional methods that were used by fishermen in the area and the tools that they used. Some of the fishing artifacts that you can view are tackles, nets and various fishing tools.

In addition to that, you can see traditional boats, vessels, and rafts in and around the museum. In ancient times, the fishermen of Desaru looked to the moon and depended on the skyline so as to identify the right times to catch fish.

These are some of the superstitions that you can listen to and be amazed at the Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum.

SGMYTAXI provides private taxi service from Singapore to Desaru and vice-versa. The driver will drive along the North-South Expressway (NSE), go through the Kulai exit (252) and enter the trunk road heading towards Kota Tinggi (94 and 3). The museum is a 30-minute drive from this location.

Pulau Rawa – MALDIVES in Johor

February 13, 2024

Located 16km off the east coast of Johor, Pulau Rawa is a private and secluded island possessed by Johor Sultanate.

Besides well-known for extremely white fine sands on the beach, the island is surrounded by mesmerising coral reefs that can be explored through snorkeling.

The interior of Pulau Rawa is covered completely with lush tropical rainforest, which is still the most mysterious and attracting part of it.

Sunbathe, snorkel, dive, swim and walk, Pulau Rawa is able to make your ideal vacation becomes real.

Why Stay in Pulau Rawa?

Looking for a short weekend getaways from Singapore? Pulau Rawa not only offering a peaceful and quiet environment all day long is but also perfect for the world of two but also family holidays, friends gatherings and even corporate retreats.

The island is unspoiled for its little development. Thus, it has all that a pristine island should have, whether it be clear water, clean environment or swaying palm trees.

There are hammocks around that visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful sight of the island.

Also read: 10 Best Haven Islands off Mersing, Johor

Take advantage in the relaxing and exciting beach activities around.

Also, try your best to immerse yourself in this whole new world so that you can escape from daily busy life. After regenerating strength for a few days, you’ll be vigor returning to normal life.

At their legendary night (Saturday night), BBQ dinner with a wide array of delicious seafood and exquisite taste will be served to satisfy your appetite.

It’s also a party night that serves cocktails and you can see people dancing and chit-chatting all night long.

How to Get to Pulau Rawa

Pulau Rawa is easily accessible from Singapore. It requires road transfer from Singapore to Mersing jetty and another boat transfer from the jetty to the island.

Step 1: Land Transfer

The land transfer can be divided into two ways:

1.1 Singapore To Mersing Jetty By Bus

This is the cheapest ride but a bit hassle and slower as you need to clear the customs if you’re from Singapore. Several buses offer direct transfer to Mersing daily.

The fare costs ranging from SGD$30 to SGD$36.50 per way and the most common pick-up point would be Golden Mile Complex.

Step 2: Boat Transfer

You don’t need to buy a ticket for boat transfer, normally the rates are included in both Rawa Island resorts package, the resort you plan to stay will arrange it for you.

Be prepared that the boat might be delayed due to unfavourable tidal conditions. You may shop around while waiting for the arrival of the boat.

What to Do in Pulau Rawa

Fill your vacation moments fun with thrilling water sports and beach activities. You’ll need a longer stay if you plan to experience all the activities offered in Pulau Rawa.

1. Snorkeling at Pulau Rawa

Get ready for a fantastic adventure that can be enjoyed for the whole family. In this watery wonderland, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent marine life and you are able to explore them closely.

2. Hiking at Pulau Rawa

There are trails built for visitors to explore the island. The trail that leads to the hilltop offers panoramic views of island and its surrounding ocean. This 40 minutes adventure will definitely bring you closer to nature.

3. Island Hopping near Pulau Rawa

All the islands nearby such as Pulau Harimau and Pulau Mensirip have a unique history and beautiful parts that worth exploring.

You can also have a picnic any of the islands you fancy and enjoy the beauty of nature.

4. Kayaking at Pulau Rawa

A kayak trip makes you stay connected with nature in a unique way. Seeing the island from a different angle can be your most memorable adventure on Rawa Island.

Also read: 15 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor

5. Scuba Diving at Rawa Island

Crystal clear water off Rawa Island offers the divers a wonderful diving experience. With the establishment of the dive centre, scuba divers can join their PADI courses that cater to different diving levels.

6. Beach Volleyball at Rawa Island

Beach volleyball is a fun game that can play for hours and not even realizing it.

Besides bringing health benefits, it keeps everyone involved in the game and you can even make new friends!

7. Relax on The Rawa Island’s Beach

The white sandy beach beckons sandcastle-builders and sunbathers to relax and have some fun.

Strolling along the beach and take in the stunning sunset can melt all your stress immediately. Hammocks are available around for relaxation too.

8. Water Slides at Rawa Island

There are 2 slides around and both will get you to end up splashing into the sea. The blue straight slide is suitable for those who fear height.

And for the orange slices, it’s higher and you will enjoy twists and turns while gliding down the slides.

Where to Stay in Pulau Rawa

In this peaceful island boasts only 2 beautiful resorts and both of them are renowned for providing outstanding customer services.

1. Alang’s Rawa Resort

By providing warm hospitality, the resort is proud of receiving many return guests each year. It’s often rated a sweet and caring resort rather than luxury and big.

Offering great deals packages that include accommodation, all meals, and even boat transfers, Alang’s Rawa Resort aims at convenient their guests and make billing as simple as they can.

All the rooms are elegant and comfortable and each of them boasts excellent views of the blue sea.

At the adjoining restaurant, Rawa Special Fish is their highlight dishes. They also create a comprehensive menu that could fulfill the wide range of needs of their guests.

Also read: 15 Best Beach Resorts in Johor

You can go to any water sports while staying here. The resort offers free snorkels, snorkel masks, and kayaks. All you need to do deposit RM50 per equipment and enjoy your day!

2. Rawa Island Resort

Rawa Island Resort is a warm and big resort enveloped in the natural beauty of Rawa Island. They have well-trained staff to make your stay comfortable and fill with enjoyment.

Photo credits: rawaislandresort.com

For accommodation, the resort caters to different traveling groups such as families, couples, group of friends and even single travelers. Modern facilities and amenities are well-equipped to ensure a pleasant stay.

Offering a wide range of water sports and beach activities, the resort lets you choose your ideal ways to enjoy Rawa Island to the fullest. You can also indulge in their spa that offers Thai massages for complete relaxation.

Please take note visitors are prohibited from littering and taking any marine life home, even if it’s dead because the island is a preserved area.

Front Office Address: Rawa Island Resort, Tourist Centre, Jalan Abu Bakar, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia.
Phone: +607 – 799 1204 / +607 – 799 1205

Pulau Rawa Map

When is The Best Time to Visit Pulau Rawa

The island is closed during monsoon season (October to February). This is due to strong winds blow and rough sea may cause harm and danger to the visitors. Hence, travel within this period may lead to disappointment.

To get the best sunny days with bright sunshine, plan your visit between April to September especially during June and July. The weather, water, and everything is great for water sports!

Travel Tips to Rawa Island

Bring only cash as you cannot use the debit card and the credit card here.
Forget to draw some cash? No worry as ATM is available at the Mersing jetty.
Bring medicines along as no hospital and clinic is built here.
Do not travel during monsoon season. It will ruin your vacation.
Boat transfers are always included in travel packages.

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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 […]