A bunch of us decided to an overnight trip to Melaka (Malacca) the adventurous way, that is to take a bus into Malacca from Singapore. If it weren't for the guys, I would not have been that adventurous and would taken a bus direct into Malacca. Our first stop was taking the Causeway Link from Queen Street to Larkin, and from there take the next available bus into Melaka.
The Larkin stopover was quite an adventure in itself, being so close to Singapore but looking worlds apart. While waiting for the next bus we had some time where we explored the market as well as enjoyed some local Teh Tarik and Prata.
Upon arrival at the bus interchange in Melaka, we still had to take a cab to our apartment, and with so many transfers, I think finding a transfer from Singapore direct to your hotel is still a more convenient option.
After checking in to a very basic apartment (it's so basic I forgot the name), we headed out to walk the streets of Malacca. Everything in Malacca is within walking distance, and that's the best part about it. Our first stop was to Christ Church, which is an iconic Dutch Colonial architectural style building that everyone passes by as the start of the walk around Malacca. Check out the gaudiest trishaws hanging around outside, and be amazed.
After which we took the river side walk along Sungai Melaka which is quite pretty at high tide (at low tide it smells) towards Jonker Street. You may also consider a boat ride in the evening as an additional point of interest. Upon arrival at Jonker Street (Jalan Hang Jebat), we veered to the streets running parallel and found cute little shops selling arts and crafts and retro items. This town is so close to Singapore, but runs at such a slow and laid back pace, you kind of feel that you are back into history, which is why Melaka is such a popular place for Singaporeans as a vacation spot, being close to Singapore, serving up great Malaysian fare, and of course, shopping.
We paused at the famous Chendol stall along Jonker street called Jonker 88 and had refreshing bowls of dessert. You cannot miss this stall as it's always crowded and the scent of will draw you to the shop. Chendol is made of crushed ice, coconut milk, jelly, and red bean topped with Gula Melaka (Palm Sugar). No one does Gula Melaka as well as Melaka where it is so sweet yet so fragrant.
After our refreshment, we made our way back to the apartment, along the way, climbed up the slope to St Paul's Church to check out the church ruins and enjoy a view of the city. St Paul's church was built in 1521 yet still looks so regal today despite being in ruins. I can actually imagine what it was like in the past when people would make their way up the hill to church on Sundays.
As evening came, we ventured out again, back to Jonker Street to check out the Jonker Street night market. The market sells food, souvenirs, art and craft, and clothing. Because everyone on a holiday in Melaka will come to the market, it is jam packed with people. It opens on a Friday and Saturday night, and to me, I would consider staying near Jonker Street in the future for ease of return after the night festivities end. If you are into buying local snacks back, be sure to check out Sun Shu Kong which is a huge building at the start of Jonker Street.
Ending the day sweet, we headed to Nadeje which sells the best Mille Crepe cake, even better than the ones in Singapore, which is quite a surprise. We spent our evening chatting away in the cool comfort of the cafe and I must say this is one of the best trips I have had to Malaysia. Good food, good company, and lots of walking aka exercising.
Indeed, Melaka is one prettier towns to visit in Malaysia, apart from Penang. It is also very compact, where everything is within walking distance. With so many historic buildings, beautifully designed shop houses, interesting art and craft, and delicious food, Melaka is definitely a must visit destination time and again.
