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
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.
While Malaysia is known for its beaches, its hill stations are some of the most beautiful locations of the country. From the adventure parks of Genting Highlands to the verdant locales of Kelabit Highlands, and from the endless hiking trails of Bukit Tinggi to the birdwatching opportunities at Fraser Hill, hill stations in Malaysia offer travellers unforgettable adventures. Join us on a voyage across some of Malaysia’s finest hill stations as we explore their pleasant climates and natural attractions.
Best hill stations in Malaysia
Genting Highlands
Image credit: panlertb/Shutterstock
Genting Highlands offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and urban amenities, making it one of the most popular hill stations in Malaysia. Located on Mount Ulu Kali’s summit at an elevation of 1800 metres, it is home to Resorts World Genting, a popular integrated resort featuring casinos and theme parks.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Ride the Genting SkyWay cable system, and visit Sky Casino Restaurants to try: Burger & Lobster Genting, Tavern in the Sky, and Spice Garden Hotels to stay: Resorts World Genting, Genting SkyWorlds Hotel, and Grand Ion Delemen Hotel
How to reach
By air: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is approximately 42 km away By train: Batang Kali KTM Station is approximately 78 km away
Cameron Highlands
Image credit: Ravin Rau/Unsplash
Known for its lush rolling hills and valleys, Cameron Highlands is one of the top hill stations in Malaysia. Home to picturesque walking trails, butterfly farms, verdant tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and charming strawberry farms, it is one of the most visited hill stations in Malaysia by locals and tourists alike.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: February to July Things to do: Hike across Mossy Forest, visit Lavender Garden, and shop at the local markets Restaurants to try: Scott’s Cafe, Singh Chapati, and Sri Brinchang Hotels to stay: Cameron Highlands Resort, Strawberry Park Resort, and Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites
How to reach
By air: Ipoh Airport is approximately 33 km away By train: Tapah Road Railway Station is approximately 68 km away
Penang Hill
Image credit: Jakub Specjalski/Shutterstock
Located in the heart of Penang Island, Penang Hill is a popular hill resort. Also known as Bukit Bendera, it is considered the oldest colonial hill station in Southeast Asia. Several lookout points across its multiple peaks offer breathtaking views of lush forests, the azure blue sea, sandy beaches, and magnificent sunsets.
Location: Air Itam suburb Best time to visit: December to February Things to do: Visit Penang Botanic Gardens and Penang Butterfly Farm, ride the iconic Penang Hill funicular, and spend a day at the Wonder Food Museum Restaurants to try: David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace, Hillview Cafe, and Marrybrown Hotels to stay: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton, DeView Hotel, and Berjaya Penang Hotel
How to reach
By air: Penang International Airport is approximately 16 km away By train: Butterworth Railway Station is approximately 26 km away
Bukit Tinggi
Image credit: Najmi Arif/Shutterstock
Home to the popular Colmar Tropicale, a beautiful French-themed village resort and theme park, Bukit Tinggi is a quaint hill station in Pahang. One of the best hill stations in Malaysia, it is also home to the Berjaya Hills Resort, a major attraction for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur, which is less than 60 km away. Located on the scenic Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway connecting it to Genting Highlands, Bukit Tinggi is a popular stopover for locals and tourists.
Location: Bentong, Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple, explore the Japanese Tea House, and spend a day at the Rabbit Farm. Restaurants to try: La Flamme, La Blason, and Fantasy Valley Restaurant Hotels to stay: Colmar Tropicale, Berjaya Hills Resort, and The Chateau Spa & Wellness Resort
How to reach
By air: Minangkabau Airport is approximately 54 km away By train: Batang Kali Railway Station is approximately 75 km away
Fraser Hill
Image credit: Neoh Chee Kong/Shutterstock
Fraser Hill, known as Bukit Fraser in Malay, is popular for its verdant forests, walking trails, and diverse birdlife. Still relatively unexplored, it offers plenty of hiking opportunities that lead to waterfalls, lakes, dams, and rolling meadows. The forested areas are home to Malay tigers, harbour panthers, and sun bears.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: April to September Things to do: Visit the Jeriau Waterfall, go for a walk on the Pine Tree Trail or the Bishop Trail, and go on a paddle boat ride across Allan’s Water Lake Restaurants to try: Aida Daniya Restaurant & English Teahouse, Ye Olde Smokehouse, and Restoran Ratha Raub Hotels to stay: The Pines @ Fraser Hills, Puncak Inn, and Fraser’s Silverpark Resort
How to reach
By air: Kuala Lumpur International Airport is approximately 155 km away By train: Kuala Kubu Bharu Railway Station is approximately 41 km away
Bukit Larut
Image credit: KCEmperor/Shutterstock
A quaint little hill station in Malaysia, Bukit Larut, formerly known as Maxwell Hill, is famous for its rolling hills and meadows adorned with a variety of flowers, including petunias, roses, tulips, marigolds, dahlias, daisies, and pansies. Located on the Bintang Mountain Range, Bukit Larut is one of the most biodiverse regions in Malaysia, hosting more than 20% of the country’s plant species.
Location: Perak Best time to visit: March to October Things to do: Enjoy the Taiping Zoo & Night Safari, spend an evening at Taiping Lake Gardens, and enjoy a short hike at Kaki Bukit Larut Restaurants to try: Taiping Seven Village Noodle House, Carson Grill, and The Mask Cafe Hotels to stay: Novotel Taiping Perak, Flemington Hotel, and Hotel Casuarina
How to reach
By air: Taiping (Tekah) Airport is approximately 8 km away By train: Taiping Railway Station is approximately 9 km away
One of the most unexplored hill stations of Malaysia, Kelabit Highlands boasts magnificent mountain ranges, lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages. With its pleasant weather and diverse flora, it offers options through forests and rice fields, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Location: Sarawak Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Attend the annual three-day Bario Food Festival in July, visit the natural salt springs of Pa Umor, trek through jungles and villages Restaurants to try: Boon Kee Restaurant, Cloude Town Cafe, and Chan’s Restaurant Hotels to stay: The Ngimat Ayu House and Bulan and Daud Homestay
How to reach
By air: Marudi Airport is approximately 6 km away By train: Bandar Tasik Selatan Railway Station is approximately 2,949 km away
-What is the best time to visit Malaysia’s hill stations? It is best to avoid the monsoon seasons when visiting Malaysia’s hill stations. Visit the east coast from March to October, and the south coast from November to March.
-What are the things to do at Malaysian hill stations? You can enjoy trekking, adventure activities, spa therapies, birdwatching, and more at Malaysia’s hill stations.
-Are there any unique attractions in Cameron Highlands? The Time Tunnel Museum is one of the most unique attractions in Cameron Highlands. This museum showcases historical memorabilia and artefacts of the country.
-Can I experience a cool climate at Malaysia’s hill stations? Yes, Malaysia’s hill stations experience cool and pleasant weather almost all through the year.
-Is Genting Highlands suitable for family vacations? Yes, Genting Highlands is a popular destination for family vacations.
-Are there hiking trails in Malaysian hill stations? Most hill stations in Malaysia are home to verdant hiking trails suitable for people of all age groups.
-Are there cultural experiences in the hill stations of Malaysia? From temples to food festivals, museums to historical sites, hill stations in Malaysia are home to several cultural experiences.
If you are looking for a little more excitement to fill your weekend getaways from Singapore, we have the perfect suggestion for you – Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark (aka Desaru Waterpark)!
Visit Desaru Waterpark is one of the things to do in Desaru because this water park has something for everyone!
With the Kampung-themed environment, it features 13 rides and attractions and some could make your adrenaline rush to a whole new level.
Besides, this water park is family-friendly where even toddlers can take part and enjoy themselves in some of the play areas.
We’ve also added the transport option for you in case you are worried about how to get to Desaru Waterpark.
Let’s check out the charm of this exciting Desaru Water Park!
13 Things To Do In Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark
Set across 21 acres of land, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark (also known as Desaru waterpark) consists of both dry and wet rides which are best for thrill-seekers to get their heartbeat racing high.
However, for younger children, there is a restriction on some rides where you need to achieve the minimum height requirement in order to enjoy.
But don’t worry as the water park has play areas for kids too. Scroll down to see the 13 things to do in Desaru Water Theme Park & attractions inside this amazing Desaru waterpark!
Catch a wave and swim at one of the world’s biggest wave pools which hold over 4 million gallons of water.
The wave is generated regularly and it’s best if you sit inside a tube. If you are getting tired, you can always take a rest at the seating areas provided at the shoreline.
Children below 122cm must be accompanied by at least an adult.
1.2 Beachside Cabanas
The 170m long shoreline of the Tidal Wave Beach lies plenty of Beachside Cabanas for guests to sit back and relax.
This is also a place for parents to relax while watching over their children playing or swimming at the wave pool.
2. Family Rides Activities (Height: Min 122cm)
2.1 Wild Whirl
At Wild Whirl, ride on a raft of 2 and hurtle down the steep channel at high speed.
After shooting into the giant bowl, you will be glued against the wall, experience several turns and finally drop into the centre chute. A splash pool will be awaiting you at the exit.
Enjoy several twists and turns on a tube while cruising down the slides.
In the middle of the ride, expect a drop into a tunnel which will have you oscillating back and forth then end up splashing into the water.
Also read:
Minimum height requirement: 122cm
2.3 The Tempest
Raft down the slide and get ready to be propelled to high-energy funnels that will have you screaming in the air.
Then, experience an unexpected 24-foot drop before it sends you down into the tunnel to experience a splashdown.
Minimum height requirement: 122cm
2.4 Riptide
Sweep at the fastest speed and at the steepest angles at Riptide.
The raft of 4 will first travel downhill into the very first twister that will have you sliding back and forth then followed by the second and third twister. Along the ride, you may feel an unparalleled feeling of free falling.
Minimum height requirement: 122cm
3. Family Rides Activities (Height: Min 110cm)
3.1 Kraken’s Revenge
The only roller coaster ride in this water park – Kraken’s Revenge is ready to deliver you thrilling fun!
Sitting in a rolling boat, the ride will have you spinning and swooping through a 360-degree horizontal loop then followed by a 27m plunge down and splash into the pool of water. In overall, the speed is up to 70km per hour.
Swinging Ship aka Pirate Ship is everyone’s all-time favourite ride. It is the only one ride in this water park where you will not end up getting wet.
This exciting swing ship which swings back and forth will reach an angle of 180 degrees on either side – offering great fun for all ages.
Minimum height requirement: 110cm.
4. Family Rides Activities (Height: Child Below 122cm)
4.1 Penawar River
Grab a tube and float the afternoon away at Penawar River. It serves as a 350m long lazy river that set amidst the lush greenery of riverside fishing village and riverbank.
Here, you can find 4 exciting water slides which are The Tempest, Riptide, Super Twister and Wild Whirl.
Children below 122cm must be accompanied by at least an adult.
4.2 Penawar Falls
The giant Penawar Falls consists of 3 separate waterfalls cascading down the rising cliffs into the big pond below. This place is great for taking pictures as it is truly a sight to behold!
4.3 Penawar River Huts
Take a rest and have some private moments at the Penawar River Huts which spread across the Penawar River. Here, cabanas are available for rental.
These private seating areas are sure to recharge your energy before hopping for another splashing fun.
5. Solo Rides Activities (Height: Min 107cm)
5.1 Surf Wall
Make your way to the Surf Wall to experience surfing in a safe environment.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, you can enjoy catching and riding the artificial wave generated by the high-energy surf simulator.
Besides, this water play area is full of exciting water play equipment that will have them giggling and bursting into laughter. Truly a heaven on earth for younger guests!
Children below 122cm must be accompanied by at least an adult.
Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark Useful Tips
Please use Touch ‘n Go card to enter the car parking.
Small locker rental is RM20 & Large locker rental is RM40.
The water park is fully non-smoking and there is no smoking area provided as well.
You need to take off spectacles or sunglasses while playing the water slides. It’s best if you can wear contact lenses here.
There are restaurants inside the park but if you are on a budget, we recommend you to have your breakfast at other Desaru food restaurant in advance as the food price is quite expensive.
You cannot bring your own food and beverages inside. There will be security checks conducted on your bags.
Cabana is available for rental but on first come first serve basis.
All-day tickets and annual passes sold are non-refundable.
The water park provides no refunds for bad weather, attractions or rides closure for maintenance or any other circumstances.
The annual pass – Splash Pass is applicable to MyKad holder and foreigner. It must be redeemed within 3 months after the purchase date.
Besides, this annual pass is not valid on the first and second days of Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Chinese New Year. From 15th December to 31st December, it is not valid too.
[…] 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 […]
1 Comment
[…] 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 […]