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 106 times, 1 visit(s) today

Rawa Island Package: Which One Should You Really Pick?

February 18, 2024

Charming Rawa Island is one of the most beautiful islands you can visit from Mersing Jetty.

It’s very accessible from Singapore and Johor!

Because of its exclusive status as a private island, it can be an expensive place to stay.

But the pristine beaches are worth it!

So you should look into some Rawa Island Packages before you go!

Resorts on the island offer their own packages.

1. Rawa Island Resort & Hotel Package

Seeing that there are only 2 resorts on Rawa Island or Pulau Rawa, you’ll just have to make a choice between one or the other.

Neither resort is cheap to book though! But that’s what comes with the exclusivity of the island!

Note: You need to stay on Rawa Island for at least 2 nights! The resorts do not allow one day trip or one-night stays!

1.1 Rawa Island Resort

Rawa Island Resort (sometimes called Rawa Safari) sits on a hill and it takes 2 to 3 minutes to walk to the beach.

If you want beachfront accommodation with an exquisite vista of the ocean, go for their sea view rooms! Rooms are very clean and well-maintained.

As for amenities, you’ll find WiFi, cable television and tea/ coffee making facilities at the resort’s own restaurant and bar where you can get a beer too.

Rawa Island Resort Highlights:

Don’t forget to try the water slides in front of the resort when you’re here! They lead right into the sea!
A badminton court, table tennis, pool table and snooker, kayak rental are available at the resort
Buffet style meals will ensure you don’t get bored of the food!

Note: Even if you stay at Alang’s Rawa Resort, nobody will stop you from using the slides at Rawa Island Resort!

Image credits: rawaislandresort.com

1.2 Alang’s Rawa Resort

Popular among backpackers for its laid-back atmosphere and wide assortment of rooms and chalets, Alang’s Rawa Resort is no stranger to making guests feel at home!

You’ll have to forgo WiFi and TV completely here and just enjoy the carefree atmosphere of a simple island lifestyle instead!

Alang’s Rawa Resort Highlights:

Two specialities to try – Rawa Special Fish and Rawa Special (A somewhat potent cocktail)!
Hiking trail (Hilltop Walk) close to the resort that takes you to the top of the hill where you can see the sunrise (or sunset), South China Sea and neighbouring islands!
Weekend adult parties at the beach shack (kids are not allowed to stay at the resort during the weekends)
Beach volleyball, kayak rental, board games are available at this resort

Note: Hiking trails are Hilltop Walk and Island Walk. You can do both regardless of the resort you choose.

How To Book A Package At Alang’s Rawa Resort

You can only book rooms at Alang’s Rawa Resort through their packages on their website.

This is how they offer the best value to their guests.

Prices will be higher by ~RM100 if you book rooms on the weekends rather than on weekdays.

Alangs Rawa Restaurant

Children under 12 get 50% off the package while children under age 5 get everything for free except food (i.e. RM60+ charge for food/day).

Take note that groups with children under 16 are not allowed to book on Saturdays at Alang’s Rawa Resort since they have a strict adults-only policy on the weekends!

2. Rawa Island Package 2021

Both resorts have their own packages.

You may want to read through both and see which is more suitable for your travel group!

Prices, of course, vary on which room you choose and the size of your group.

They charge by person and the waterfront rooms obviously cost the most!

The packages do not, however, include the following:

Johor National Park Fee & Marine Park Fee
Tourism Tax (applicable to foreigners)
Rental fees for water activities (e.g. kayak, snorkeling, pedal boats, etc)

Note: And if you bring your own alcohol, you will be charged corkage fees!

2.1) 2D1N Rawa Island Package

There is no such package available for Rawa Island as both resorts require a minimum of 2 nights’ stay for any booking.

2.2) 3D2N Rawa Island Package

A 3D2N package is perfect if you can only afford to take leave from work for just a day and go on a weekend!

It gives you up to 2 half-days and 1 full day to chill at Rawa Island!

This is the standard package offered at Alang’s Rawa Resort which includes:

2 nights’ worth of accommodation
Boat transfers to and from Rawa Island from Mersing Jetty
All meals starting with your first dinner until the last lunch on the day you leave.

Package excludes:

Cost of all drinks
Johor National Park Fee & Marine Park Fee

For Rawa Island Resort, you can book a 3-day or 4-day full board snorkeling package.

The term full board means that accommodation and meals are included, as well as a 2-way boat transfer from Mersing Jetty to the resort!

As a bonus, you get a welcome drink thrown into the package too!

2.3) 4D3N Rawa Island Package

If you have an extra day to spare in paradise, then the 4 days, 3 nights package is just what you need!

For Alang’s Rawa Resort, you’ll have to contact them directly if you want to stay for longer than 3 days!

While at Rawa Island Resort, this package is almost identical to the previous one but with an extra night’s worth of accommodation and another day’s worth of meals (3 per day).

3. Rawa Island Activities Package

You definitely need to pay close attention to this particular section if you plan to go to Rawa Island!

There are certain activities that are not allowed in the waters surrounding Rawa Island since it’s part of the Marine Park.

3.1 Rawa Island Diving Package

While you can’t book a diving package or course directly from any of the 2 resorts on Rawa Island, you can only book through the PADI Five Star Scuba Diving Instructor Development Center (Orca Scuba Rawa) on the island!

Also read: Tioman Island Diving Guide & Tips

Orca Scuba Rawa offers diving courses from beginners up to professional Master Scuba Diving Trainer (MSTD). Families and children are welcome too! They have instructors for ‘open water’ or ocean diving or open scuba diving as well.

The location of the dive center is at the northern end of the beach which makes for excellent shore dives not far from the main reef or the resorts.

3.2 Rawa Island Snorkeling Package

Neither resort on Rawa Island has packages that include a snorkeling trip away from Rawa Island. However, you can rent snorkeling gear from the resort and snorkel off the beach!

Alang’s Rawa Resort provides free snorkelling gears for guests as long as you return the gear in their original condition but the gear availability is not guaranteed.

Cost to rent snorkeling gear at Rawa Island Resort:

Snorkeling Mask & Snorkel at RM 9/hour or RM 25/day
Snorkeling – Fin at RM 9/hour or RM 25/day
Snorkeling Set at RM 17/hour or RM 40/day
Life Jacket at RM 9/day
Rash Guard at RM 30/day
Pool Noodle at RM 8/day

Mind that you stick to the western side of the beach to do so since the eastern side is very rocky. The coral reef stretches from the northern to the southern end of the beach about ~100ft or less from the shore.

Note: Be alert of jellyfish!

3.3 Rawa Island Kayaking & Pedal Boat Package

There are no packages for Rawa Island that include kayaking as one of the activities but:

Rawa Island Resort does have kayaks and pedal boats for rent:

Kayak (Single) at RM 28/hour
Kayak (Double) at RM 38/hour
Pedal Boat at RM 30/hour

3.4 Rawa Island Fishing Package

As one of the 13 islands in the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park which is under the protection of the Malaysian Department of Marine Parks, Fishing is strictly prohibited anywhere in the waters surrounding Rawa Island.

This is why there are no fishing packages available from any of the resorts.

4. Rawa Island Package From Singapore

If you’re starting your journey from Singapore to Rawa Island, there are Rawa Island packages from GoIslands that include the boat transfer from Mersing Jetty to Rawa Island.

4.1 Private Car Service From Singapore To Mersing Jetty

We don’t blame you if you don’t feel up to the task of driving 2.5 hours (or more) to Mersing Jetty!

For starters, the road is probably one that you have never been on before.

And then there’s the hassle of going through immigration, paying for toll, petrol and parking fees and having to drive back again!

Why not have someone else drive for you instead? Consider booking a private car service from SGMYTAXI!

Why You Should Choose SGMYTAXI Private Car Service From Singapore To Mersing Jetty:

Immigration is a breeze – you don’t have to exit the car and join the queue!
Comfortable, private and convenient
Easy booking process
Affordable rates
Pick-up right from your doorstep in Singapore at a time that you choose.
Direct journey to Mersing Jetty. No transits required.
Great review from customers.

What To Expect:

The journey estimated to be 2.5 hours, but still, depending on the traffic.

Vehicle Details:

How To Book A Private Car:

You can make your booking through Whatsapp.

Additional Information:

Pay the fees directly in cash to the driver.

5. Rawa Island Package From Johor Bahru (JB)

It may come off as a surprise that you still need at least 2 hours to reach Mersing from Johor Bahru despite them being in the same state of Johor!

So if you don’t want to drive, you can always rely on a private car service like SGMYTAXI instead!

For more information about Rawa Island packages, you can check out the available Rawa Island package.

5.1 Private Car Service From Johor Bahru To Mersing Jetty

If you cannot stand the thought of driving and get stressed about traffic and parking when you’re supposed to be relaxing:

Consider hiring a private car service like SGMYTAXI from Johor Bahru to Mersing Jetty as an alternative!

Why You Should Choose SGMYTAXI Private Car Service From Johor Bahru To Mersing Jetty:

Choose from their fleet of spacious cars with ample space for you and your belongings
You don’t have to queue up for the ride or share it with strangers
Easy to book a car
Reasonable rates
Customize your pick-up point and time in Johor
Travel straight to Mersing Jetty with no transits in between

Want more proof of their reliable service? See actual testimonials from their recent customers!

What To Expect:

Depending on traffic, the journey should take around 2 hours
Have cash (in Ringgit) to pay the driver

Vehicle Details:

There are different cars in their MPV fleet that you can opt for:

i.) Toyota Innova (7-seater MPV)

ii.) Toyota Alphard (8-seater MPV)

iii.) Hyundai Starex (10-seater MPV)

Pick Up/ Drop Off Locations:

You can go for either of these arrangements:

Option 1: Mersing Jetty to Johor Bahru (1-way transfer)

Option 2: Johor Bahru to Mersing Jetty (1-way transfer)

Option 3: Johor Bahru to/from Mersing Jetty (2-way transfer)

How To Book A Private Car:

Booking is easy! Just send a message through WhatsApp!

Additional Information:

Please give the fee to the driver in cash.

Also read: How To Get To Mersing Jetty From Singapore (Include Mersing Jetty, Transport, Food……)

6. How To Go To Rawa Island From Mersing Jetty

Step 1: Private Car Service From Singapore/Johor Bahru To Mersing Jetty

Refer to the above information for more details.

Step 2: Boat Transfer From Mersing Jetty To Rawa Island

Boat tickets are included in the resort packages as both resorts offer speedboat services to ferry their guests from Mersing Jetty to Rawa Island.

All you have to do is select a slot that suits you!

You should note that the Johor National Park Fee and Marine Park Fee are not included in the package. So you will have to pay these at Mersing Harbour Center which is walking distance from Mersing Jetty.

Conclusion

There are not many Rawa Island packages so that keep things simple and easy!

It’s just a matter of choosing the resort and arranging transport (either bus or private car) from Singapore or Johor Bahru to Mersing Jetty so you can take the boat service provided by the resorts to Rawa Island!

Pulau Tengah: You Probably Didn't Know Turtle Watch Camp Existed

February 18, 2024

“Middle Island” is the literal meaning of Pulau Tengah.

The nature beauty and its unique history add to the charm of this island.

With approximately 16km from Mersing, this personally owned island is well-known for its white sandy beach and crystal clear water.

Nestling among the coconut trees, the only resort on the island, Batu-batu resort blends into the island perfectly.

With the serenity and tranquillity offered, Pulau Tengah is definitely an ideal tropical getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city lives.

Why stay in Pulau Tengah?

Pulau Tengah was once a popular refugee camp for Vietnamese. Due to the abundance of unique marine life and coral reefs all around the islands, Pulau Tengah and other small islands was nominated as Marine Park in 1985 after the camp was closed.

Western countries had recognized the beauty of Pulau Tengah. In 1997, a famous Swedish reality television programme, Expedition Robinson, shot its scenes in Pulau Tengah. This makes the island well-known even among international tourists.

Photo credits: batubatu.com.my

Visitors get to see three different types of turtles living and breeding at the southern shore of Pulau Tengah. Those who visit the island between June and August have higher chances of watching turtles laying their eggs.

Also read: 10 Best Islands off Mersing, Johor (Top Secret)

The resort on the island is ideal for perfect weekend getaways from Singapore for family vacations. By providing baby and children facilities, the resort aims at lessen the burdens of parents travelling with children. With well-trained and friendly staff, parents can leave their children at the play house and enjoy the life of two.

How to Get to Pulau Tengah

30 minutes boat ride from Mersing jetty will take you to Pulau Tengah. If you book your stay at Batu-batu resort, they will arrange a private speedboat transfer for you.

The resort also has a few scheduled speedboat transfer daily. It takes only 20 minutes to arrive at the island when the weather is good. Besides, you can also charter a boat at higher prices to get to Pulau Tengah.

For road transfers, visitors can either travel by bus or by private car.

There are a few bus companies provide direct coach transfer services from Singapore to Mersing which are One Travel & Tours and WTS Travel Singapore Flyer. The bus schedules and their pick-up point can be checked and booked online.

What to Do in Pulau Tengah

As there are lots of exciting activities offered by the island, you’ll never get bored while staying here. The activities include:

1. Scuba Diving at Pulau Tengah

Chromodoris Coi Nudibranch found at Pulau Tengah

Photo credits: batubatu.com.my

Dive season on the island falls from 15^th March to 15^th November. The dive team is currently running many diving programmes for youth at different ages. Experienced dive instructors will teach and guide them at close hand.

Also read: 15 Best Dive Destinations in Malaysia

2. Snorkelling at Pulau Tengah

Join a snorkel trip to discover the underwater world at Pulau Tengah. It’s an attracting experience to get up close with the reefs and sea creatures. Diving mask and fins can be rent from the resort.

3. Island hopping at Pulau Tengah

Kindly speak to the staff to plan a visit to the beautiful neighbouring islands. The resort offers 2 boats for island hopping, one is 24 foot boat and the other is 32 foot boat.

4. Jungle trekking at Tengah Island

There are two treks offered to hikers, one is 3km that trek around the island (1 hour journey) and the other one is 1.5km that trek through the interior of island (30 minutes journey).

5. Canoeing at Tengah Island

Ride on a kayak and enjoy paddling against the current. It can be enjoyed alone or with a group of people. The kayak can be rent from the resort.

Also read: 15 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor

6. Beach Volleyball at Tengah Island

Time spent with your loved one is always worthy. Beach volleyball enables you to enjoy quality bonding times with them. Besides sharing the fun of game, the families can enhance their relationship among themselves.

Where to Stay in Pulau Tengah

1. Batu-Batu Resort

Batu Batu Resort is the only resort in Pulau Tengah. Set admist the coconut trees and white sandy beach, it is a family-friendly resort suitable for a fantastic family holiday.

Photo credits: batubatu.com.my

Batu Batu Resort features jungle villas, ocean villas and poolside villas decorated in traditional Malay style.

Photo credits: batubatu.com.my

The rustic furnishings offer a nature and warm ambience to guests. All the villas are built by local carpenters.

Photo credits: batubatu.com.my

With a spacious pavilion overlooking the sea, the on-site restaurant offers a finest dining experience. It has a menu that change daily during lunch and dinner.

Normally, dishes served would be fresh seafood and delightful local dishes. To cater for little ones, children’s menu is available everyday.

Photo credits: batubatu.com.my

Snorkelling, diving, kayaking, swimming and hiking are the activities offered by resort. Take pleasure at their attap-roofed beach bar. It offers fresh juices as well as cocktails and wines. Otherwise, go to the spa. Their therapists will provide different treatments and massages to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.

Also read: 15 Best Beach Resorts in Johor

Facilities Provided By Batu Batu Resort:

Infinity pool
Children’s Play House
Complimentary WiFi
DVD Library
Dive centre

Contact: +6017 – 755 2770 / +6017 – 755 5888 / +6017 – 755 0672 / +6017 – 755 5781
Website: http://batubatu.com.my/

When is The Best Time to Visit Pulau Tengah

Pulau Tengah is not always available. There are a few months that are not suitable to travel. When planning a getaway to Pulau Tengah, avoid the annual monsoon season which falls from October to March especially during December to February.

Monsoon season leads to rough sea, high tides and strong winds. Hence, it is dangerous to go for water sports and even some beach activities.

To ensure your safety, travel in between April and September. Thanks to the calm water and sunny days within these months, you can fill your days with different interesting activities and you get to enjoy the island living to the fullest.

Travel Tips to Pulau Tengah

Need not to buy ferry tickets beforehand as resort will arrange boat transfer for you.
Bring your own bite creams and mosquito repellents even though the resort will provide.
Need not to bring the equipment for water sports as the resort will provide.
Seek for map and advice from staff at front desk beforehand if you wish to go for jungle trekking.

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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:

Related Posts

1. Rawa Island Resort & Hotel Package

1.1 Rawa Island Resort

1.2 Alang’s Rawa Resort

2. Rawa Island Package 2021

2.1) 2D1N Rawa Island Package

2.2) 3D2N Rawa Island Package

2.3) 4D3N Rawa Island Package

3. Rawa Island Activities Package

3.1 Rawa Island Diving Package

3.2 Rawa Island Snorkeling Package

3.3 Rawa Island Kayaking & Pedal Boat Package

3.4 Rawa Island Fishing Package

4. Rawa Island Package From Singapore

4.1 Private Car Service From Singapore To Mersing Jetty

5. Rawa Island Package From Johor Bahru (JB)

5.1 Private Car Service From Johor Bahru To Mersing Jetty

6. How To Go To Rawa Island From Mersing Jetty

Step 1: Private Car Service From Singapore/Johor Bahru To Mersing Jetty

Step 2: Boat Transfer From Mersing Jetty To Rawa Island

Conclusion

Why stay in Pulau Tengah?

How to Get to Pulau Tengah

What to Do in Pulau Tengah

1. Scuba Diving at Pulau Tengah

2. Snorkelling at Pulau Tengah

3. Island hopping at Pulau Tengah

4. Jungle trekking at Tengah Island

5. Canoeing at Tengah Island

6. Beach Volleyball at Tengah Island

Where to Stay in Pulau Tengah

1. Batu-Batu Resort

Facilities Provided By Batu Batu Resort:

When is The Best Time to Visit Pulau Tengah

Travel Tips to Pulau Tengah

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