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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Rawa Island: How To Get There From Singapore (Travel Guide)

February 19, 2024

There is no other place like Rawa Island in Malaysia.

It is unspoiled, authentic and beautiful.

The island’s beauty and serenity are well preserved.

Also, it is the perfect place for a tropical escape.

With little development, Rawa Island might be lesser-known but it still attracts nature lovers from all over the world.

Plan a visit to Rawa Island, you will never regret and you get to experience island life to the fullest.

Today, I’m going to share with you how to get to Rawa Island from Singapore as well as everything about Rawa Island, Johor.

How To Get To Rawa Island From Singapore

Bus From Singapore To Rawa Island

The most budget transportation to Mersing will be taking public transport offered by Five Stars Express and WTS coach.

The pickup point of Five Stars Express is at Golden Mile Complex whereas the pickup point of WTS coach is at Singapore Flyer. One way ticket costs SGD $31.50 and SGD $40.00 respectively.

The coach departs very early in the morning, at 6:15 am so that the passengers can catch the ferry to Rawa Island at 11:00 am. It takes 3 hours to arrive safely at Mersing Jetty but it still depends on the traffic condition.

However, as the bus is only available once per day, it is recommended to book the bus ticket online beforehand. The return ticket can also be booked directly.

Pros: Cheapest option

Cons: You need to disembark from the bus at Singapore Woodlands Checkpoint (Singapore Immigration) and queue for 40 minutes to 1 hour. After that, you need to wait for the rest of the bus passengers to be done.

Then, you need to disembark from the bus again at Johor Custom (Malaysia Immigration) and queue another 40 minutes to 1 hour. It’s quite hassled because you also need to bring your luggage down for scanning. This procedure is applied for entering and existing Singapore.

How To Go To Rawa Island From Mersing

1. Ferry From Mersing Jetty To Rawa Island

Rawa Island is a 1-hour ferry ride from Mersing Jetty. The tickets are sold at the sales counter which costs RM35 per ride.

The ferry departs every 1 to 2 hours between 9:30am and 5:30pm, depending on the tidal conditions especially during the Full Moon.

Also read: Batam To Johor Bahru Ferry Guide

2. Boat From Mersing Jetty To Rawa Island

Alternatively, take a 30 minutes boat ride to Rawa Island. Normally, it costs RM35 per way but it depends on the size of traveling group.

There is no fixed departure time but more boats are available during peak season (March-September). Boat transfer can be arranged with any of the Rawa Island resorts package in advance.

The resort offers Rawa full board package includes boat transfer from Mersing Jetty to Rawa Island, accommodation and meals. Just to inform that there is only 2 resort you can choose either Alang’s Rawa Resort or Rawa Island Resort.

2 Awesome Rawa Island Accommodation

1. Alang’s Rawa Resort

Rawa Island is a private island owned by Johor Sultanate. There is little development to keep the island pristine. The unspoiled paradise of Rawa Island is the perfect short weekend getaways from Singapore. It is also an ideal place for honeymoon and family gathering.

Alang’s Rawa Resort lines perfectly along the beach. The rooms offered include a beach house, jungle side, coconut tree group room, coconut tree, little A-Frames and beachfront.

Each room is clean, well-equipped and provides wonderful sea views. The friendly staffs will render assistance to guests in all they can do.

Alang’s Rawa serves simple yet delightful dishes. The highlight of the dishes here is Rawa Special Fish. It is prepared by using the freshest fish and local ingredients.

If you are staying here on the weekend, do not miss out the BBQ buffet offered on Saturday nights. Lots of mouthwatering choices are available to satisfy your appetite.

Most of the guests are impressed by the warm hospitality of the staff. Compared to other bigger islands, this small and beautiful island makes them feel private and serene.

They had never seen such white and fine sands at any other beaches before. Before leaving, they strongly recommend future visitors to discover the hilltop view and go for trekking.

2. Rawa Island Resort

Rawa Island Resort is considered as a family resort as there are lots of activities and entertainment offered to the entire family. Discounts are given to individual guests who return here again.

While staying here, the parents can simply relax by sleeping in hammocks around. Their children can enjoy outdoor activities such as canoeing, jumping on the trampoline and playing beach volleyball.

Photo credits: rawaislandresort.com

There are 77 specially designed rooms offered by Rawa Island Resort. All rooms are featured with en-suite bathrooms, hot shower and air conditioning system. At the restaurant and bar, you can find tea/coffee making facilities and television.

The on-site restaurant serves buffet-style meals. Guests can get up and refill whenever they like. In between meal times, sandwiches are provided at request. Infant milk and food will also be provided to a family traveling with the baby.

With a warm and passionate welcome from attentive staffs, the guests felt themselves at home. Most of the kids had lots of fun spending the whole day on the beach. They enjoyed snorkeling and jumping off the jetty into the sea the most.

The guests will never go thirsty or hungry as food are constantly provided. Most of them promised to visit Rawa Island Resort again in the future.

4 Best Resort Near Rawa Island

1. D’Coconut Island Resort

Looking forward to waking up to a breathtaking sunrise and taking a walk along the white sandy beach? Look no further than D’Coconut Island Resort.

Perfectly surrounded by crystal clear waters, D’Coconut Island Resort offers amazing sea view and exciting beach activities to guests.

The resort is situated on Pulau Besar, a place surrounded by many gorgeous islands such as Rawa Island, Harimau Island and Mensirip Island. Therefore, the visitors are easily accessed to the nearby islands.

The resort offers 65 well-fitted guestrooms with private balcony overlooking the beach. Each room features air conditioning, hot shower facilities and a refrigerator. The on-site restaurant is set against the beautiful sea views. Local and western dishes can be found here.

For leisure, take advantages of the recreational facilities offered by the resort whether taking a dip in the pool or jogging around the garden. The guests can also go snorkeling and play beach volleyball while staying here.

2. Mersing Beach Resort

Mersing Beach Resort is located in Air Papan, about 10km away to the north of Mersing. The resort is surrounded by an incredibly beautiful beach.

The beach has clean blue sea and a gentle breeze that will make you feel astonishing. The silhouette of the islands can be seen around the resort.

The rooms here are quite big and all of the rooms are fully equipped with air-conditioner, refrigerator, full toiletries, hot and cold shower, LCD television, electrical jug kettle, private balcony, wardrobe, mirror and dressing table.

The guests are just a few steps away from the beautiful white sand and crystal clear beach.

The resort is featured with an on-site swimming pool. For safety purpose, parents can let their children playing in the pool rather than in the sea. With the breathtaking sea view offered, everyone seems to lose track of the time since they were here.

Address: Lot 456, Pantai Peranginan Air Papan, Mersing, Johor, 86800 Malaysia
Contact: +607-799 4545

3. Fishing Bay Resort

Fishing Bay Resort is located by a bay called Teluk Buih. It is also known as Air Papan, a village in Johor. Securely surrounded by decent rainforest, diverse species of flora and fauna can be found here.

It is one of the most well-known family resorts in Malaysia. For those who like rustic rooms and chalets that feature an interior setting alike traditional homestays, Fishing Bay Resort is your best choice.

Even though the room is set in the traditional way but it comes with modern amenities include air-conditioner, television, hot water shower and free WIFI internet access.

As the resort name indicates, it is an ideal place for guests who wish to angle along the shore.

The resort is a pleasant place to enjoy the serenity of nature. It is a privilege to spend your time here away from the hustle and bustle in the city.

Address: 525 Teluk Buih Air Papan, 86800 Kampung Kayu Papan, Malaysia
Contact: +60 7-799 6753

4. Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar

Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar is a 3-star resort which offers a fairytale-like experience to the guests. The sea surrounded the resort homes to a variety of cute and tiny sea creatures. Besides, the guests are constantly greeted by the swaying coconut trees and soft white sands.

Although the resort is decorated in kampung style, it is well-equipped with modern facilities. The room features air conditioning, mini fridge, hot shower, and satellite television, just to name a few. Apart from that, all of the staffs have a really good manner.

Beach volleyball, motorized water sports, and beach futsal are some of the beach facilities provided. The guests can explore the underwater through snorkeling and scuba diving.

After all day long activities, delicious cuisines can be found in their restaurant. Savour the scrumptious cuisines while enjoying the scenery of the beach will be a perfect ending for the day.

Address: Lot 33,34 and 35, Pulau Besar, Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Email: [email protected]

8 Fun Thing To Do In Rawa Island

1. Rawa Island Snorkeling (Le Club Rawa)

Discover the underwater beauty surrounds Rawa Island by go snorkeling. Crystal clear water allows you so see a variety of marine life clearly.

All the snorkeling gear you will need is provided by Le Club Rawa. The best part is you can literally start snorkeling just a few steps from your room. However, beware of jellyfishes.

2. Play Rawa Island Water Slides

Enjoy a thrilling splashdown experience by playing water slides. It is not only for children, but adults can also attempt water slides too.

The riders will experience simple twists and turns and end up splashing into the cool sea. If you are fear of heights, jumping off from the jetty can give you an almost similar experience.

3. Kayak/Canoeing At Rawa Island

Canoeing is one of the leisure activities which can be found in Rawa Island. Paddle with the current while sitting in canoe makes you feel like floating on the blue sea.

Rent a canoe from the resort and start discovering the unspoiled island. You may discover something new!

4. Go To Fishing

With the fishing tours organized by the resorts, fishing enthusiasts will fall in love with Rawa Island. The tour is RM300.00 per travel for 3 to 4 individual.

All the fishing equipment is provided by the resort. If you are new to fishing, the staffs will always be there to help you.

5. Play Beach Volleyball

Beach volleyball is played in teams. The parents can spend quality time with their little ones through playing beach volleyball.

The children will not get hurt if they fall down. Instead, they find interesting diving in the soft sand after the ball. The volleyball can be accessed upon request.

6. Jungle Trekking

It is worth spending 40 minutes hiking to the hilltop in the evening. Take the long trekking path and follow the sign to the hilltop. The breathtaking ocean view is offered along the path.

You will be rewarded with a stunning sunset sea view once you reach the hilltop. Beware of the steep stairs.

7. Walk around at Rawa Island beach

Walking barefoot on the beach takes you into nature and reduces stress. Above you are the blue sky and beside you is the clear blue water.

It is refreshing walking across the shore and leaving your footprints behind. Walk around with friends or family to enjoy the beautiful scenery together.

8. Rawa Island Diving

Photo credits: rawaislandresort.com

Rawa Island is ideal for diving as it has clear water. Now, discover scuba diver programme is offered to those who are new to diving.

Your safety is guaranteed as you will be under the close supervision of an experienced instructor. Join the dive courses to explore more!

Best Time To Go Pulau Rawa

Visit Rawa Island between March to September and stay away from monsoon season (October-March).

Within this period of time (March to September), the sea view is breathtaking and the weather is great for water activities.

It is the best time to travel as it ensures a pleasant stay with your loved ones.

15 Things To Know Before You Travel To Rawa Island

Avoid visiting Rawa Island during monsoon season. Rainy days may spoil your trip.
Bring along some medicines. There is no clinic or hospital on the island. Medical aid can only be obtained from Mersing.
The accommodation package should have included boat trips.
The boat trip timings vary according to tide condition.
Alang’s Rawa Resort does not provide WiFi to guests.
Kayak, snorkeling gears and life jacket are free to be used right after depositing RM50.
All the purchases on Rawa Island should be paid in cash.
Bring your own diving gears. There is no diving shop on the island.
Take a dip in the crystal clear water. Discover the sea creatures on your own.
Alang’s Rawa Resort is suitable for budget travelers.
Hike to the hilltop to see stunning views of the entire island.
Kindly ask the staffs for help. All of them are willing to help you.
In Alang’s Rawa Resort, all expenses are paid only when checking out.
Take a lot of photos of this beautiful paradise.
Get the Malaysia mobile simcard because resort does not have Wi-Fi.

Pulau Sibu: Undeveloped Island (Johor) For Snorkelling & Diving

February 16, 2024

Pulau Sibu (also known as Sibu Island) is an archipelago with collections of pristine islands offering dazzling blue water and golden beaches.

With peacefulness and tranquillity as main attractions, the island itself offers endless freedom and solitude that makes you linger long after you leave.

Despite taking pleasure in exciting water sports, angling activities and jungle trekking, guests get to experience rural livings and learn their culture in close hand.

Pulau Sibu awaits you to its nature beauty and it guarantees a carefree yet appealing travel experience.

Why Stay In Pulau Sibu?

Most of people living in city couldn’t remember how nature looks like. So, our government are struggling hard to build a green city but what could be better if you truly live in a nature paradise? Pulau Sibu can be your first taste of living in a pristine nature.

Also read: 10 Best Haven Islands off Mersing, Johor

In 1993, Pulau Sibu is nominated as Marine Park as there are numerous colourful and attractive coral reefs offshore. Snorkelling is available to have close moments with sea creatures and the coral reefs. Besides, plenty of water sports activities are available to make your stay fun and interesting.

You will see the coral and nemo fish when diving in Pulau Sibu

Photo credits: sibuislandresort.com.my

The island offers no roads and transports. Walk or get a boat if you wish to travel around. Restaurants and shops are nowhere to be found. The island has retained its originality to fullest.

Corporate events can be held on the island along the shore. Private beaches are available for team bonding activities with colleagues. Resorts can arrange these activities for guests.

Pulau Sibu is perfect for wedding and honeymoon too! They have been received many couples coming here for an anniversary trip. Lots of seafront chalets are romantically designed for couples. Better than that, the island offers unlimited secluded areas to give total privacy to the couples.

Also read: 17 Top-Rated Short Trips From Singapore (Best & Cheap Travel Destinations!)

What To Do In Pulau Sibu

Photo credits: twinbeach.com

For energetic guests, plenty of great activities are offered in Pulau Sibu such as:

Water sports activities: Snorkelling, scuba-diving, swimming, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and fishing
Jungle trekking (Insect repellents are needed)
Island hopping
Beach Volleyball

This is a Nudibranch. They are often called sea-slugs, and their colors and designs are striking. This little guy found in Pulau Sibu was about 3 cm long.

Nudibranch also called sea-slugs

This red beauty is a Crinoid, often called a feather-star found in underwater at Sibu Island

Crinoid also called a feather-star

Clownfish protecting his Anemone

3 foot long adult Star Puffer

Also read: 16 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor

For more relaxing activities, the resort offers:

Spa
Cards and board games
Small library (Rimba resort)
Rubber rings (Float on water aimlessly)

Plan a visit to nearby kelong. At the kelong, you can:

Gain insight into rural daily life
See how the villagers rear and catch prawns and anchovies

Photo credits: saripacifica.com

Leisurely stroll along the beach is a must on the island. The white fine sands on beach can comforts your feet while you walk. In the evening, watch the stunning sunset over the horizon. Enjoy sunbathing on the beach but you should apply suntan lotion to protect your skin.

Where To Stay In Pulau Sibu

Pulau Sibu offers many exceptional resorts which are maintained to highest standard to welcome guests every year.

Attentive and well-trained staffs are offered to make your stay unforgettable.

Meals are often included in the accommodations fee.

The resort does not open all year round due to monsoon season so kindly check for availability before booking. Resorts on the island include:

1. Rimba Resort

Sea view from Rimba Resort at Pulau Sibu

Photo credits: amitravel.my

Appointed as “Travellers’ Choice 2012” and “Certificate of Excellence” by TripAdvisor
Offers 21 well-equipped elegant seafront chalets
Offers over 24 dive sites, training courses for beginner are available
Spa at Bamboo Bliss offers perfect rejuvenation of body and mind
Restaurant and Bar are offered
Opens from annual Chinese New Year to 1^st of December

2. Sari Pacifica Beach Resort & Spa

Photo credits: saripacifica.com

Seafront Villa and Garden Villa with luxury and modern amenities
Meals are included in packages
Offers Kayu Manis Restaurant and bar
Sari Dewi Spa offers various treatments and massages
Gymnasium
Ferry & Boat services
Swimming pool
Golfing
Offers scuba-diving and snorkelling activities

3. Sea Gypsy Village Resort & Dive Base

Sea Gypsy Village Resort & Dive Base Room

Photo credits: siburesort.com

Surrounded by tropical vegetation
Offers elegant and secluded private beach
Offers a bar that opens all day long
Clean and comfortable on-stilts chalet with en-suite bathroom
Kids centre is available to let the parents have special moments together
Well-equipped dive base

4. Coconut Village Homestay Resort

Offers beachfront chalets and large bungalow house
Accommodations cater for 82 people
Speed boat is offered for water sport activities and boat transfer
Scuba-diving and fishing
Astro Telecast services
Karaoke room, mah-jong, cards and movie
BBQ sites are available

5. Twin Beach Resort

40 well-maintained “Kampung style” chalet that comes with private facilities
Water sports: Scuba-diving, snorkelling, wind surfing, canoeing
Beach activities: Beach volleyball, Frisbee and cycling
Island hopping
Deep sea fishing
Fun playground with wide open spaces offered to children
BBQ dinner on beach

Contact: +603 – 6201 2270 (KL) / +6016 – 782 0128 / +6019 – 700 3769 / +6019 – 324 6466
Fax No: +603 – 6201 2271
Website: www.twinbeach.com

When Is The Best Time To Visit Pulau Sibu

Sibu Island has seasonal charm as it is influenced by monsoon season which is from October to March. Thus, avoid visiting Pulau Sibu during monsoon season as the island is susceptible to dangerous high tide. Besides, most of the resorts closed their doors within this period of times.

June to August would be the best times for visit. The weather is excellent and the coast is clear. There are less rainfalls thus water activities are available at most of the times. Overall, the environment is perfect for a summer vacation and you get to enjoy amazing moments on islands to fullest.

Visit Pulau Sibu in July and you get to see group of sea turtles crawling to shore to lay their eggs. However, any actions that disturb the sea turtles or stealing their eggs are strictly prohibited.

Bookings can be made early even during monsoon season.

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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:

Rawa Island: How To Get There From Singapore (Travel Guide)