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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Pasar Karat JB Night Market Near JB Checkpoint Guide

February 27, 2024

Pasar Karat, affectionately called Bazar Karat, is a must-visit destination in Johor Bahru that’s just a stone’s throw away from the JB Checkpoint.

This charming night flea market (or pasar malam as locals call it!) on Jalan Segget offers a wide array of products, from clothes and electronics to yummy treats for the foodies.

Read on to discover all this market has to offer – what to buy and what to eat – for a memorable offbeat shopping experience in JB!

Table of Contents
1. Pasar Karat Night Market (Bazar Karat)
2. Pasar Karat Location
3. Pasar Karat Opening Hours
4. What To Buy At Pasar Karat
5. What To Eat At Pasar Karat
6. How To Reach Pasar Karat JB?
7. Where To Park At Pasar Karat Night Market?
8. Pasar Karat FAQs

1. Pasar Karat Night Market (Bazar Karat)

Originally known for antiques and used items, Pasar Karat or Bazar Karat, which translates to “rust” in Malay, is now a walking street filled with shoes, gadgets, and local street food vendors.

With approximately 500 meters of bustling stalls, this lively market spans across Jalan Segget and Jalan Tan Hiok and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

What You’ll Like:

Great ‘pasar malam’ vibe
Variety of street food and local delights
Shop for various knock-off goods, electronics, clothes, etc
Open til late night – great for an after dinner stroll or shopping
Very affordable prices
Good place for bargain shopping

Good To Know

Many vendors at Pasar Karat JB night market accept both cash and TnG (Touch ‘n Go) payments
Pasar Karat JB can get crowded especially on weekends, so be aware of your belongings and keep an eye on your purse or wallet
While haggling is a common practice in night markets, food items generally have a fixed price
Parking could be a hassle, so consider ride sharing options

2. Pasar Karat Location

Address: Pasar Karat Night Market (Pasar JB), 26, 20, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xQZCFiyH778tTLtV8

3. Pasar Karat Opening Hours

Pasar Karat Night Market is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 6:00pm til midnight.

While most shops open by about 6:00pm, head to the market a little later for a better night market vibe as the it only truly comes alive around 8:00pm!

Also Read: 7 Glamping Site in Malaysia For Your Weekend Trip

4. What To Buy At Pasar Karat

4.1 Antiques & Vintage Items

If you’re a fan of vintage treasures, don’t miss the antique stall selling treasures like old cameras, brassware, enamel pots, and street vendors selling vintage t-shirts.

4.2 Clothes

Numerous stalls offer a range of clothing items, including jeans, tourist-themed t-shirts, and the always-popular crowd favorite, batik shirts!

4.3 Fashion Accessories

Pasar Karat is also famous for a wide selection of affordable knockoff handbags and shoes resembling popular high-end brands in malls.

Shopping Tips For Pasar Karat

Exploring the stalls can be an exciting adventure, with the potential to discover one-of-a-kind gems
Goods can be similar from stall to stall, so don’t buy from the first shop you come upon as you might find a better deal elsewhere!
Feel free to haggle down the prices, but keep in mind that these vendors are also trying to make a living!

Also Read: How To Get To Desaru From Singapore, What To Do & Eat In Desaru, Desaru Attractions (Desaru Travel Guide)

5. What To Eat At Pasar Karat

5.1 Lokching

A definite must-eat at the market is their ‘lokching’ or skewered fish satays and sausages that are grilled then dunked and smothered into the most delectable homemade Thai chilli sauce!

5.2 Mee Siput

While the name suggests that you’ll be eating a bowl of noodles, mee siput is actually a deep fried flour dough that spirals like a shell of a ‘siput’ or snail and served with tasty sambal!

Also Read: 35 Awesome Places To Visit In Malaysia (Read This Before Travel To Malaysia)

5.3 Kunafa

Cap off your visit to Pasar Karat with their yummy Kunafa, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert of shredded dough soaked in sugar syrup layered on top of a delicious cream cheese base!

6. How To Reach Pasar Karat JB?

Pasar Karat JB is a quick 10 minute drive away from the JB Checkpoint.

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Pasar Karat from the JB Checkpoint is to hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Grab.

Also Read: 13 Best Cafe In Johor Bahru That Are Worth Travelling For

7. Where To Park At Pasar Karat Night Market?

If you’re driving to Pasar Karat yourself, parking can be a bit of a challenge due to the busy area and lack of designated parking facilities.

Most shoppers choose street parking, but be sure to avoid double lines, yellow lines, and hydrants – it may be risky, but it does add to the excitement of shopping at a pasar malam!

8. Pasar Karat FAQs

Q1. What time does Pasar Karat JB open?

Most stalls in Pasar Karat JB are set up and open by around 6:00pm.

Q2. Are there any differences between Singapore’s and Pasar Karat JB’s night market?

Singapore’s night markets are more food-centric offering more ‘hot food’ options, while Pasar Karat sells clothes, vintage ware and street snacks that are super budget friendly!

Q3. Is Pasar Karat JB worth visiting?

Yes! Pasar Karat JB is definitely worth a visit for its unique ‘pasar malam’ atmosphere, great bargains, and delicious street food!

UK Farm Kluang In Johor: GREAT Choice For Family Vacation (Review)

February 23, 2024

Have you ever get bored of life living in the city with all the heavy traffic and crowd?

Well, we have discovered this perfect attraction in Johor for an urbanization getaway – The UK Farm Kluang.

Remember, it’s not located in the UK.

Instead, the farm is located at Kluang in Johor and It has been known as one of the top attraction in Kluang.

UK Farm Kluang is only one hour and 30 minutes drive away from Singapore.

From Johor Senai Airport, it is an hour drive away.

Since it is a Projek Pertanian Moden Kluang, under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry, Malaysia, most people pay their visit to experience what living on a farm feels like.

11 Things To Do In UK Farm Kluang

There will be lots of fun and interesting activities to do in Johor Bahru. One of the famous places is UK Farm Kluang.

There is plenty you could do once you reach UK Farm Kluang, without too much walking as there is a minibus tour service that allows you to have a quick tour around the farm. Besides that, you can take a horse carts service too!

Also read: 11 Eco Parks & Farms in Johor

UK Farm tour packages are guided by their knowledgeable guide to make a visit to a feedstock processing factory, sheep pens, goat milk processing center, Ostrich Park, Jakun village, fruit farm, nursery, mushroom and vegetable farm.

1. Learn About The Goats & Sheep

The farm is widely known as the largest sheep and goat farm in Malaysia, hence the main attractions are the goat and sheep.

Due to that fact, you get to actually step into the goat shelter to feed and pet them. You can get the opportunity to feed the goats and maybe even pet or carry them! This is something for everyone, especially the kids as this is an educating experience.

Why not see a herd of sheep and goat grazing in the field meadow. You don’t have to travel so far to New Zealand just to see that, you can see it here in Johor!

Also, get to enjoy the spectacular show where the farm dog tries to gather the goats back to the pen. What a sight to behold! Get to view them at 10:00am, 1:00pm and 4:00pm.

For the more energetic ones, there are fun and more strenuous activities such as trying to catch a sheep in 3 minutes.

The game allows anyone to participate at 3 people in one team, even better, the winner gets a secret present from the farm. Get your legs running and catching skills working!

2. A Tour At Goat Milking Process Centre

Get the chance to see how the farmers milk the goats- you don’t get to see that everyday living in an urban life!

This is one of the must-see tourist attractions as visitors get to learn how goats are being milked and the milking process in the factory. The whole method from the start to the end is done here.

You can even get to taste the fresh goat milk here! Better yet, buy the products that are made in the milking center; the milk or other products that are made from goat’s milk.

3. A Visit To Jakun Village

Why not explore a different culture? An Orang Asli ethnic culture with their unique houses and utensils that are built with their own hands. How marvellous is that?

Even more amazing, you get the chance to see their blowpipe (Temiang) performance, look at the hunting traps they made ( Perangkap Kancil and Penyatuh Harimau) and their interesting tree-houses called Kerkendeng. At the end of the visit, you will receive a wonderful gift from the Orang Asli as a souvenir.

Also read: Gunung Lambak (Best Outdoor Short Trip From Singapore)

4. Feeding At Mini Zoo & Ostrich Farm

UK Farm has a mini zoo where kids can get up-close with the animals and enjoy the beauty of nature. They have many different types of birds and animals such as peacocks, ducks, chickens, geese, turkeys, rabbits, monkeys, hedgehog.

It is fun being surrounded by birds and chicken while sprinkling food stock. Not forgetting the largest flightless birds, ostriches which are equally cute too!

Experience the joy of petting them, feeding them by hand, and also taking photos with them. Definitely, an insta-worthy shot to take selfies with animals!

5. Visit The Fruit Farm & Herbs Sanctuary

All that walking, feeding and petting animals will make you feel hungry yourself too. Head over to the fruit farm to pluck some fruits. Learn more details about the fruits and trees, and reward yourself with something sweet.

Maybe even have a calming relaxing trip by having a herbal tea while gaining insights into herbs or medicines. The herbs sanctuary has over 100 species of herbs for you to learn, understand and also the chance to buy the organic herbs back as a souvenir.

6. Learn About Growing Mushroom & Organic Vegetable

Aside from fruits and herbs, try to visit another interesting food farm- mushroom and vegetables to get deeper knowledge on mushroom growing. You’ll get to learn the process throughout the visit. Even better, you can plant your own mushroom and wheat grass, of course with an experienced guide.

Don’t forget the organic vegetable farm nearby, it is really worth the visit. You can head on down to their restaurant that serves healthy vegetarian food which is grown on that farm. That is really fresh!

7. Have Fun In D.I.Y Projects

There are so many fun DIY projects on the farm. All these activities here allow you to gain new insights into farming. You can make things, learn and design them for yourself!

The farm offers various things for you to make in an educational and yet fun environment such as; mask, kites, t-shirt, fortune lantern and so much more.

Also, if you love baking, they have something special for you. You get the opportunity to make goat milk muffins, curry puffs and even their own signature recipes at their Cafe House.

8. Go On Horse Riding In UK Farm

You may get the chance to ride in the horse carte but what about riding on the back of a horse? It is an exhilarating experience for everyone. Do note there is a weight limit of up to 50kg as not to place any strain on the horse.

9. Enjoy the Night Life In UK Farm

The sun has set and you think there is all there is in Uk Agro Farm? Think again! The night is still young!

Have a smacking good barbeque time with your family or friends, pick your favourite song and sing to your heart content at their karaoke session (you know you want to), and released beautiful sky lanterns into the dark night.

10. Explore Animals In The Night Safari

If partying isn’t your style. You can spend the night peacefully with some night sightseeing. Yes, you got that right, seeing things in the dark!

UK Agro Resort provides a guided night tour to view the lifestyle of the nocturnal animals. There are a variety of animals that can be seen such as; pangolin, snakes, bats, owls, foxes, wild boar, bats, hedgehog, and fireflies. The tour only lasts for half an hour and cost RM3 per person.

11. Buying Souvenirs In UK Farm

You wouldn’t want to go home empty-handed. So, get on down to their local store to get their goat milk products like goat milk lotion, shampoo as well as goat milk drink sachets.

Also, try their popular goat milk ice cream and also the fresh goat milk while you’re at it.

Accommodation In UK Farm Kluang

You may also gain yourself an authentic and memorable farm experience here by staying overnight as accommodations are available. Enjoy spending the night in rooms built on stilts with a phenomenal view of the green pastures that are grown for grazing of the sheep.

The rooms are well equipped with all the modern amenities you require, i.e. air conditioning, fluffy beds, coffee/tea maker, internet access – wireless (complimentary), daily newspapers, hot water (with water heater) and en-suite bathrooms to rejuvenate you after a long day journey.

Besides, if you are in a larger group, dormitories is another option available in the accommodation which is more cost-effective. There is no air conditioning here in the dormitory; you have a common bathroom, and mosquito nets and mosquito repellent coils will be provided.

For those who are adventurous, you can enjoy the camping site for about RM35 per night.

UK Farm Kluang Tour Package

1.) Mini Bus Tour Package

Mini Bus Tour Package Itinerary
Get to visit feedstock processing factory, Jakun village, hydroponic farm, Timur deer park, ostrich, goat milk processing center, rabbit, fruit farm, goat pens, duck farm.

Tour duration: 2-3 hours
Tour operating hour: 10:00am – 5:00pm

Reminder: Sheep grazing & herding scheduled at 10:00am, 1:00pm & 4:00pm, reach 30 minutes earlier for this attraction.

Mini Bus Tour Package Price
Adult: SGD16/pax or RM47.7/pax
Child (3-12yrs) & Senior (>60yrs): SGD12/pax or RM37.1/pax

2.) 2D1N UK Farm Chalet Package

2D1N UK Farm Chalet Package Itinerary

Day 1
2:00pm – Check In
3:00pm – Hi-Tea
4:00pm – Mini Bus Tour
7:00pm – Dinner
8:30pm – Launch Kong Ming Lantern

Day 2
8:00am – Breakfast
9:00am – Sheep Challenge
12:00pm – Check out

2D1N UK Farm Chalet + Package Price

Low Season (Monday to Thursday)

1. UK Farm Chalet Twin
Adult: SGD 79/pax
Child: SGD 72/pax

2. UK Farm Chalet Triple
Adult: SGD 72/pax
Child: SGD 65/pax

3. UK Farm Chalet Quad
Adult: SGD 65/pax
Child: SGD 59/pax

Peak Season (Friday to Sunday, School Holidays & Public Holidays)

1.UK Farm Chalet Twin
Adult: SGD 100/pax
Child: SGD 89/pax

2. UK Farm Chalet Triple
Adult: SGD 82/pax
Child: SGD 76/pax

3. UK Farm Chalet Quad
Adult: SGD 76/pax
Child: SGD 69/pax

3.) 3D2N UK Farm Chalet Package

3D2N UK Farm Chalet Package Itinerary

Day 1
2:00pm – Check In
3:00pm – Hi-Tea
4:00pm – DIY Activities or Visit Mini Zoo (optional)
7:00pm – Dinner
8:30pm – Launch Kong Ming Lantern

Day 2
8:00am – Breakfast
10:00am – Mini Bus Tour
12:00pm – Lunch
3:00pm – Hi-Tea
5:00pm – DIY Activities
7:00pm – Dinner
8:30pm – Launch Kong Ming Lantern

Day 3
8:00am – Breakfast
9:00am – Sheep Challenge
12:00pm – Check out

3D2N UK Farm Chalet + Package Price

Low Season (Monday to Thursday)

1. UK Farm Chalet Twin Price
Adult: SGD 123/pax
Child: SGD 113/pax

2. UK Farm Chalet Triple Price
Adult: SGD 113/pax
Child: SGD 103/pax

3. UK Farm Chalet Quad Price
Adult: SGD 103/pax
Child: SGD 96/pax

Peak Season (Friday to Sunday, School Holidays & Public Holidays)

1. UK Farm Chalet Twin Price
Adult: SGD 154/pax
Child: SGD 144/pax

2. UK Farm Chalet Triple Price
Adult: SGD 130/pax
Child: SGD 120/pax

3. UK Farm Chalet Quad Price
Adult: SGD 116/pax
Child: SGD 109/pax

Food To Eat In UK Farm Kluang

The resort has a homely restaurant that serves simple and yet tasty local food. You can also choose to eat at the Zenxin Organic Farm – about 18 minutes’ drive from UK Farm Kluang – where everything that is put on the table is organically grown and processed on that farm.

Otherwise, you should try out the salt-baked kampong chicken, the lamb chop and mutton soup which will delight you. All the dishes come accompanied by rice or noodles. Meal packages are available in UK Farm Kluang for visitors to choose.

If you prefer different local authentic dishes in Kluang itself, why not drive to town which is just half an hour drive! Check out best food in Kluang that are often recommended by locals and not to be missed!

Address: Plot 8, Project Pertanian Moden Kluang, KM13 Jalan Batu Pahat, 86000 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia.
Contact: +607-759 7555
Facebook
UK Farm Kluang Entrance Fee: RM47.70/adult & RM37.10/Child
UK Farm Kluang Opening Hours: 9:00am to 6:00pm

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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:

Related Posts

1. Pasar Karat Night Market (Bazar Karat)

2. Pasar Karat Location

3. Pasar Karat Opening Hours

4. What To Buy At Pasar Karat

4.1 Antiques & Vintage Items

4.2 Clothes

4.3 Fashion Accessories

5. What To Eat At Pasar Karat

5.1 Lokching

5.2 Mee Siput

5.3 Kunafa

6. How To Reach Pasar Karat JB?

7. Where To Park At Pasar Karat Night Market?

8. Pasar Karat FAQs

Q1. What time does Pasar Karat JB open?

Q2. Are there any differences between Singapore’s and Pasar Karat JB’s night market?

Q3. Is Pasar Karat JB worth visiting?

11 Things To Do In UK Farm Kluang

1. Learn About The Goats & Sheep

2. A Tour At Goat Milking Process Centre

3. A Visit To Jakun Village

4. Feeding At Mini Zoo & Ostrich Farm

5. Visit The Fruit Farm & Herbs Sanctuary

6. Learn About Growing Mushroom & Organic Vegetable

7. Have Fun In D.I.Y Projects

8. Go On Horse Riding In UK Farm

9. Enjoy the Night Life In UK Farm

10. Explore Animals In The Night Safari

11. Buying Souvenirs In UK Farm

Accommodation In UK Farm Kluang

UK Farm Kluang Tour Package

1.) Mini Bus Tour Package

2.) 2D1N UK Farm Chalet Package

3.) 3D2N UK Farm Chalet Package

Food To Eat In UK Farm Kluang

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