Discover Why Malacca Might Not Be As Fun As You Expected
Because most tourists, whether they are from Malaysia or overseas (especially those in tour groups), go on day trips, starting from Kuala Lumpur after breakfast, and after a grueling 2.5-hour journey, they arrive in Malacca around noon. Then, stepping out of the comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, they take photos, look for restrooms, and wait in line at famous restaurants for lunch.
The sun is scorching, challenging their carefully applied makeup, and sweat pours under their pretty floral dresses. The restaurants are crowded, so they have to eat quickly, and then continue to be out in the sun, or climb stairs to St. Paul’s Church, the A Famosa fortress, museums, the Red House, and Jonker Street.
I believe most friends who have visited Malacca have had this experience. The old streets of Malacca are delightful to explore, not only because they are part of UNESCO World Heritage but also as the birthplace of Malaysia, where one can experience history, architecture, traditional trades, and local delicacies such as satay celup, chicken rice balls, and cendol.
You can take a boat ride along the Malacca River, and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening after 6 PM, there is a night market at Jonker Street during the Cultural Festival.
To fully enjoy Malacca, it’s necessary to eliminate the factors that could dampen your mood. So, I suggest:
1) Start your journey to Malacca after a late breakfast or early lunch on Friday, and take a short rest in the car during the hot afternoon.
2) Arrive around 5 PM, and first visit Harmony Street to see the 300-year-old mosque, with an adjacent Hindu temple and Buddhist temple, experiencing a street that embraces different cultural backgrounds and lifestyles.
3) You can also take a boat ride on the Malacca River (night cruises are available, but you’ll see more scenery before it gets dark).
4) Explore the weekend night market, then find a restaurant with outdoor seating for dinner, watching passersby or enjoying singing performances; since you’re not in a rush and the weather is cooler, your mood will naturally be better.
5) Spend the night at a homestay or hotel on Jonker Street.
6) Start your city walk and photography early in the morning. Before 10 AM, the temperature is below 30 degrees, and most importantly, dozens of tour buses and thousands of independent travelers haven’t arrived yet. You can take pictures at the Red House, St.
Paul’s Church, the A Famosa fortress, and old shops, with fewer people and less heat, not only getting great shots but also feeling good.
7) Before noon, go and enjoy the famous Malacca curry noodles, cendol, and chicken rice, which won’t be too hot or crowded, and then you can head back to Kuala Lumpur.
Use the hottest part of the day to take a leisurely nap, and return to Kuala Lumpur before evening, just in time for another city walk or shopping at the mall.
With these minor tweaks, your experience will be significantly enhanced, ensuring a smooth and delightful trip to Malacca. While rushing through a one-day or half-day tour might seem efficient, it often means missing out on the true essence of the place.
I have a deep affection for exploring ancient cities. Many years ago, during my first visit to Wuzhen, I was enchanted but overwhelmed by the crowds. Determined to fully appreciate its charm, I later planned several overnight stays. The transformation was remarkable. Wuzhen at night and early morning, free from the hustle and bustle of day-trippers, reveals a serene and enchanting atmosphere that is truly captivating.
This principle applies to many renowned destinations worldwide, such as Jiufen in Taiwan, Mount Fuji in Japan, Edinburgh, Barcelona, and Paris. These places offer their most rewarding experiences to those who rise early and take their time. If possible, arrange to stay overnight in Malacca, savor each moment, and you’ll find that taking it slow actually gets you there faster—in a joyful and fulfilling way.
