Best Bars In Malacca That The City Has To Offer

February 13, 2024

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These Best Bars In Malacca, Malaysia Promise A Good Time In The Historical City

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.

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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*

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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*

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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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Top 15 Best Scuba Diving Location In Malaysia: Sipadan Island, Mabul Island……

February 19, 2024

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Top 15 Best Dive Locations in Malaysia

Experience paradise underwater at these top 15 best dives sites In Malaysia.

Malaysia has long been a notable destination for diving, renowned the globe over for clear waters, diverse marine life and competitive dive rates.

Whether you want to try diving yourself or already an experienced diver, we’ve gathered these destinations below, that’ll truly appeal to the underwater adventurer in you.

Here are our top picks according to the overall experience. Discover and target your next diving destination, let’s discover one of the best short trips from Singapore!

15 Best Dive Sites In Malaysia

1. Sipadan Island & Mabul Island

The east of Malaysia, not to be confused in reference to diving in the East Coast of Malaysia, sits the lush island of Borneo, home to the top trio. Our number one pick of best dive sites in Malaysia is hard to dispute as the trio of islands holds immense beauty above and underwater; we’re sure these islands will get you snorkelling and diving in no time after your arrival. Also read: Pulau Aur

Image Credits: tashggw

Accessibility: Fly into Tawau, Sabah or into Kota Kinabalu, Sabah then a land transfer is required to Semporna before a boat into the islands. Boats between the islands are available via resorts and the local dive operators, or if you’re staying in Semporna, day trips are available as well. Good to know: You can visit these islands all year round, though special permits are required

2. Kapalai Island

Kapalai island isn’t far from Sipadan, with a mere 15km between them. This island isn’t at all big and has one resort operating on it. A big bonus to Kapalai is that you get to snorkel and shore dive for free, not inclusive of any equipment, making it great if you’ve a party mix of divers and non-divers.

Variety of Flora & Fauna Species Found in Underwater Kapalai Island

Image Credits: Leisure Tan

Accessibility: Similar route to Sipadan and Mabul above Good to know: The island is technically a sand bar, and walking along the sand is possible during low tide.

3. Layang Layang Island

Layang Layang proudly takes our third spot as the island is known for spotting of hammerhead and whale sharks, as well as its history; it was a former marine base.

What you won’t find here are beaches but the island more than makes up for it with the 12 dive spots around it. Diving in Layang Layang however does not require permits and currently there is only one dive resort operating on the island. Also read: Pulau Harimau

Image Credits: avillionlayanglayang.com

Accessibility: Access point is via a chartered flight on board small cargo plane into the island from Kota Kinabalu. Do check weight limitations if you’re bringing along your diving gear and other equipment. Good to know: Island is open from March to August; remainder months closed during monsoon season

4. Pom Pom Island

A small gem, measuring less than 3 km in circumference, Pom Pom Island holds its own, largely due to its white sandy beaches and being a hatching ground for Hawksbills and Green turtles, and even one resort on the island doubles up as a turtle sanctuary and conservation centre. If you’re visiting during turtle hatching season, ask locals how you can lend a hand.

Accessibility: Fly into Tawau and a land transfer to Semporna before taking a boat out to Pom Pom Good to know: Pom Pom North Point is also known as ‘Mini Sipadan’

5. Mataking Island

Also in Sabah, Mataking is known for having the one and only underwater post office in Malaysia.

Image Credits: aeriazlan

It is a base for turtle hatching with an active team running an eco-conservation program.Diving here is possible under the Sipadan diving permit. Also read: Pulau Tinggi

Variety of flora & fauna species found in Underwater Mataking Island

Accessibility: Find your way by land transfer from Semporna and hop on a 40 minute boat ride inland Good to know: Mataking has a peacock sanctuary, open for visitors

6. Tenggol Island

Tenggol Island which is situated in the state of Terengganu, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia. One of best diving in Malaysia here is you can see the whale shark if you’re very lucky.

Whale Shark In Tenggol Island Diving Sites

Image Credits: rattachain

This island is popular among more experienced divers as the waters surrounding it are wreck dive spots, and has only one resort on it. Consider the option to book via individual dive operators for best all-inclusive packages. Diving sites are Tokong Timur, Mini Highway, Tanjung Api & many more.

Flora & Fauna Species At Tenggol Island Underwater

Image Credits: zahryl

Accessibility: Drive up or fly into Terengannu and head on to Dungun pier, then a ferry or boat across Good to know: If hanging out at the beach, bring coconut oil to deter sand flies

7. Perhentian Island

Still in Terengganu, the two Perhentian islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. Accommodation choices are aplenty on both islands, from budget right up to luxury stays with the bulk of budget accommodation located on Perhentian Kecil, which is livelier come nightfall, and is the choice island for backpackers.

These islands are closed during the monsoon on the East Coast from November through to February. Accessibility: Option to fly into Terrenganu, drive up, or take overnight busses to Kuala Besut jetty for the morning ferries Good to know: Travellers from Singapore can opt to hop on the Transnasional business class overnight bus

8. Redang Island

This island is also under Terrenganu state administration, and almost all accommodation here are resorts. While snorkelling and scuba diving is a must, other than water based activities why not enjoy Redang’s beaches which are perfect to simply relax the day away.

Turtles, Whale Shark & Flora Found When Scuba Diving in Redang Island

Image Credits: goproprojek, Janice Tan

Accessibility: Fly, drive or bus it into into Kuala Terengganu then travel to Shahbandar jetty or Merang jetty Good to know: Marine fees apply for entry into island

9. Tioman Island

Tioman Island in the state of Pahang is a duty free island, and an abundance of resorts around the island, with a jungle and forestation in the middle or the island. Also read: Tioman Dive Center & Package

A small Malay village with shops and eateries is in Kampung Tekek; and to get here is only by water taxis.

Underwater creatures found in Tioman Island diving sites

Image Credits: Kai Lukoff

Accessibility: Direct flight from Subang airport via SAS airline, drive up, hire taxis and overnight busses Good to know: One ATM machine in Tekek, but does not accept all cards- do bring sufficient cash

10. Lankayan Island

Back to Sabah Borneo, Lankayan is quite the secret among divers, and less visited due to its location in the Sulu sea.

Aerial View of Lankayan Island into the Sulu Seas off the North-Eastern coast of Sabah in Malaysia

Image Credits: Beaches & Resorts – Southeast Asia

But if you make this trip, you won’t regret it anytime soon especially if you’re lucky to spot some whale sharks!

Turtles back to sea from Lankayan Island's beach

Image Credits: fotograferen.net

Accessibility: Head to Sandakan Sabah then hop on a speedboat Good to know: March- May for whale sharks sightings

11. Dayang Island

Situated in Johor, this island is practically unknown even to most Malaysians. The island is picking up in popularity in recent years so if you ask us, the best time to go is now! Dayang Island attracts divers and sport fishermen namely for the Black Marlin which are native around its waters.

Accessibility: From Johor, travel to Mersing jetty and then a boat in Good to know: Open season is from April to September

12. Pemanggil Island

Pemanggil Island is a haven for divers and fishermen, as most fishing competitions are held here and also a spot to catch Black Marlins and mackerels. Being small, electricity on Pemanggil Island is controlled, and switched on from 1930- 0730 daily.

Accessibility: Get in to Johor then to Mersing jetty and a boat transfer Good to know: Best to visit from March to June

13. Labuan Island

Labuan in Miri Borneo is an island with its own appeal, firstly it’s duty free throughout and offering two notable wrecks from World War II and other wrecks spots as well.

Ship wreck found undersea in Pulau Labuan

Image Credits: adlertours.files.wordpress.com

Divers with sufficient logged wreck diving experience or are certified would be able to visit some wreck spots here. Accessibility: Fly in directly from Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu Good to know: Great deals on duty free pearls

14. Langkawi Island

Malaysia’s largest duty free island is way up north in the state of Kedah neighbouring Thailand. There’s a lot to do in Langkawi it’s best to spend a few days, up to a week here. Diving in Langkawi, Malaysia takes place mostly at the Marine Park and three other islands nearby.

Accessibility: Plenty of direct flights into Langkawi Good to know: Year round diving

15. Kapas Island

Belonging to the state of Terengganu, this less visited island is a magnet for wreck dive enthusiasts, as its home to a Japanese World War II ship wreck, and offers a chance to glimpse reef sharks and turtles who favour the waters around here.

Accessibility: Fly, drive or bus it into Terengganu and on to Marang jetty followed by boat transfer Good to know: Open year round but gets a lot of rain during monsoon season

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7 Captivating Hills in Johor For Weekend Hiking

February 26, 2024

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gunung in johor to climb

Are you looking for a break away from all the monotony of everyday life?

Perhaps you want to have a little adventure in the process?

It’s time to grab your hiking boots and head straight to Johor.

Johor region, which is located on the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia, is home to one of the most treacherous mountains in the whole of Malaysia and is in close proximity to Singapore.

It is a mountainous region and as such has a series of mountains which are different in every aspect except that they are all found in Johor.

In this article, you will discover the 7 most captivating mountains or ‘Gunung’ as they are called in the local Malaysian language.

We will also give you directions on how to get to each one of them.

Captivating Hills in Johor

1. Gunung Pulai, Johor

When driving to Gunung Pulai you cannot fail to notice the most obvious landmark that tells you have arrived. It is the teacup landmark which bears the name Anggun Café and the road that leads to the starting trailhead of Gunung Pulai.

The 654m high mountain covers about 80 square kilometers of forest reserve and it is the closest area between Johor Bahru and Singapore.

Gunung Pulai also is known as Mount Pulai is one the most popular hiking spots in Johor. The flora and fauna found in Mount Pulai attract a lot of hikers in this part of the world.

Many Singaporeans and other visitors are attracted to Gunung Pulai because they believe that there is a historic connection between Mt Pulai and Singapore. The forest reserve is a water catchment area that feeds the Johor River which in turn supplies water to many Singaporeans.

Also read: Endau Rompin National Park (Ultimate Guide)

Gunung Pulai is also an exciting feature to many Singaporeans because it stands out in terms of coverage and height as compared to Singapore’s highest hill which stands at 164m above sea level.

The diversity in wildlife here is also appealing to most hikers. There is also a wide array of tantalizing local food which is purely irresistible to most visitors.

Contacts: +60 14-988 1988

How To Get To Gunung Pulai, Johor
After clearing with customs head directly to NS Highway and look out for exit 252, that is Kulaijaya /Kota Tinggi. After clearing Kulaiijaya toll look out for Hutan Liput Gunung Pulai sign on your right. Then drive along Jalan Sawahto JIn TM Gn Pulai, you will see lots of sand quarries and oil plantation along the way. After 11 km about 10 minutes of driving, you will come to the entrance of Kg Sri Gunung Pulai on your left.

2. Gunung Panti in Kota Tinggi, Johor

Gunung Panti is a Malay word which means Mount Panti. It is a treacherous but beautiful mountain which can be seen from as far as Kota Tinggi Waterfalls.

Its imposing outlines stand out as it challenges any adventure seeker to try it out.

Travelling along the road, one immediately notices that its left edge has an almost vertical face that stares menacingly at every passerby or motorist as if giving out an open challenge.

Also read: 16 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor

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Photo credits: embark.org

It is 485 meters high and its peak appears as if it is capped with a huge bolder which gives it an unmistakable identity. This is the perfect set up for any hiker who wishes to take up the daunting task of reaching its peak and discover what is in store.

Once at the peak, the mountain offers you a full circle view of the surrounding area not to mention beautiful scenery that awaits you at the top in form of flora and fauna. It will take any hiker about 2.5hrs to ascend and 2hrs to descend and climbing this mountain is not very taxing. Make sure you are dressed for the occasion as sometimes it can really get wet and you don’t want to be caught in the mess.

How To Get To Gunung Panti In Kota Tinggi
To reach its foothills, drive from Kota Tinggi town towards Air Terjun passing Kampong Batu Ampat, Air Terjun or Kota Rainforest Resort is about 8km from Kampong Batu Ampat. The road you should look out for should be on your right and about 50 meters before reaching Kota Rainforest Resort. Take the dirt road and you will find yourself at the foot of Mount Panti in no time.

3. Gunung Lambak in Kluang, Johor

Gunung Lambak is a twin peaked mountain with a higher peak reaching about 510 meters. Lambak, which is translated as Flea Mountain, is a little bit steeper than Gunung Panti and needs a lot of effort to hike.

The trail that leads to Lamback Mountain is ever rising and rough. Most parts of the trail have ropes which have been set up to help in the climbing.

On the outskirts of Kluang town, there is the Gunung Lambak Eco Resort where the trail starts. The steep trail is well known by hikers who have climbed the mountain before.

Photo credits: travelledpaths.com

It can offer a very good challenge to any hiker who wishes to conquer the Gunung Lambak. It takes about 2-3 hours to scale the mountain and back. Climbing the mountain is free as there are no permits or admission charges.

As a visitor, you can choose where to stay depending on your budget. You can choose the Eco Resort or Rail Hotel. The Eco Resort is a bit expensive because it has the necessary resources like camping facilities, swimming pool, kids playing ground and others. Food is also cheaper at the Green Home Wealthy Vegetarian Cafe and the Kluang coffee rail which has very odd operating hours.

How To Get To Gunung Lambak In Kluang
If you want to reach Gunung Lambak in Kluang and you are using the North-South Expressway, you should take the Air Hitam exit (interchange 244) and then take Highway 50 to Kluang town. When you are near Kluang you will see signposts for Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest which is on the southeast edge of the town.

4. Gunung Belumut, Johor

Gunung Belumut is about 1010 meters high and is located about 18km east of Kluang. This mountain is higher and steeper as compared to Lambak and Panti Mountains and takes an individual the whole day to trek up and down.

For a small group, it will take about 2days and one night to make the entire trek. There is a resort at the base of the mountain which offers some semblance of security to verify the trekker’s identities and permission.

There are charges for mountain climbing and using of the chalet for an overnight stay.

5. Gunung Arong in Mersing, Johor

Gunung Arong Recreational Forest is a forest reserve located in the Mersing District in Johor.

A stream runs through the entire length and breadth of the forest.

The stream offers maximum enjoyment to many hikers and adventure seekers, whose cooling and refreshing effects are an unforgettable experience.

Photo credits: gaiaadventurers.com

The Gunung Arong peak rewards hikers and trekkers alike with a panoramic view of the South China Sea and its neighbouring islands. In good weather, you can also be able to see the magnificent splendor of Pulau Tioman unfolding before your eyes. To reach the peak, which is about 255 meters high, one has to trek for about 2 hours.

After the trek, one can always relax at the Tanjung Resang Beach. This is a popular destination for many hikers. Its rough waves and wind creates the perfect situation to be in harmony with the wild nature.

How To Get To Gunung Arong In Mersing
Little is known if there is any public transportation to the area. Getting here is best done by personal vehicle or by private taxi. The area is in between Mersing and Endau. You will see a single small shop selling snacks serving as a registration counter.

6. Gunung Ledang, Johor

This is perhaps one of the most trekked mountains in Peninsular Malaysia. Gunung Ledang, which is also commonly known as Mount Ophir, can be accessed via two routes.

The Sagil Path is the most commonly used path and is much longer than the Asahan route. The Asahan route is less known because it is less accessible as compared Sagil. A few trekkers have used the route up the Ophir Mountain.

Photo credits: iwannatravel.com.sg

The start of the trek from Asahan is easily accessible by vehicles where you will see a signboard notice that warns trekkers to only use the Asahan route for both the descend and the ascend.

Transport arrangements should therefore be made to pick you up after descending from the mountain. The Asahan trail is also relatively cleaner than the Sagil one and there is no entrance charge or climbing permit. This path is wilder than Sagil and leads you to a campsite located about 1.5 hours away from the summit.

The campsite is large enough and can hold up to 10 tents in different locations. There is also a stream nearby which brings a lot of relief to any trekker.

How To Get To Gunung Ledang, Johor
Take a bus 170 from Singapore to Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru. From there, take an Express bus from Larkin to Segamat at a cost of about RM 10 per person and takes about 3hours 15 minutes. From the Segamat Interchange to Asahan, you can take a Taxi at about RM 80 per cab. It takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to reach Asahan from here.

7. Gunung Muntahak, Johor

Gunung Muntahak is a 634m hill that is the main water source for the Kota Tinggi Waterfall. It is a largely undisturbed rainforest with little or no human intrusion.

The hill is hidden by other hills and it is hard to see from the main road leading to Kota Tinggi Waterfall.

Photo credits: timeoff2outdoors.com

It has the perfect condition for the growth of beautiful palm which is widespread in this rainforest. The trail to the summit is gentle and narrow, and has many obstructions as one makes his way towards the summit.

The ascent becomes more steeper and tiring as one gets close to the summit which does not offer any rewarding view as the area has thick and tall vegetation that obstruct any meaningful view.

How To Get To Gunung Muntahak, Johor
Take SBS bus 170 from Singapore to Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru. Then take G.P. Express bus at Platform 33 from Johor Bahru Bus Interchange to Kota Tinggi Bus Interchange at a cost of RM 3.50 per person. At Kota Tinggi take a Causeway Link Bus no.66 to Gunung Muntahak at a cost of about RM 2.00. The ride will last about 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a Taxi from Kota Tinggi Interchange to Wet World resort entrance (The trek starting point) at a cost of RM 10-12.

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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:

Top 15 Best Scuba Diving Location In Malaysia: Sipadan Island, Mabul Island……