How to What to Do in Melaka, Malaysia

Posted by Anonymous , 9/5/2007 Tags:MelakaMalaysia
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How to What to Do in Melaka, Malaysia

Introduction

Melaka, a state on the Southwest coast of Malaysia, has a rich history of changing hands and evolving with its many influences over the centuries. The Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese, Indian and native Malay have all left their imprint on this small state. The capital, Melaka Town, is a great base of operations. It is a small city and can easily be explored on foot.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Spend some time in and around The Stadthuys, the old town hall built in 1650s by the Dutch. It is located in The Dutch Square and is a massive red building that is representative of the Dutch architecture of the time. It houses the History and Ethnography Museum that includes detailed information about Melaka, more than most museums. It is easily a few hours to read all that is offered. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Tuesdays and for an extended lunch on Fridays. Nominal entrance fee.
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Step Two

Climb to the top of St. Paul's Hill (Bukit St. Paul) after The Stadthuys. There are the ruins of St. Paul's Church which was built by the Portuguese in the 1520s. The Dutch takeover led to a new church, Christ Church at the bottom of the hill, hence the state of ruins for St. Paul's at the top. It is still a beautiful setting and worth the hike up.
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Step Three

Visit A Famosa (The Famous in Portuguese), there is not much left, but you can get a sense of what was a huge fortress. This is also at the top of St. Paul's Hill. After the Portuguese were driven out by the Dutch, some renovations occurred. They added ANNO 1670 to the arch as well as a bas-relief of the logo for the Dutch East India Company. The English didn't want the upkeep of a fortress and began destroying it. Due to efforts of those appreciating the history, this small gate was spared.
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Step Four

Cross over the bridge from the town square into China town and stroll along Jalan Hang Jebat, which used to be known as Jonkers Street. There is a large variety of antique and craft shops. If you are seriously shopping for antiques, be sure to understand the rules and clearance requirements. Your dealer should be able to help fill out any necessary forms and give advice on getting clearance.
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Step Five

Visit the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia. It is still actively serving the spiritual needs of the Melaka Chinese community. It is open daily from 7am until 7pm. It is in China town, west of the river Sungai Melaka.
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Step Six

Bukit China (Chinese Hill) is slightly Northeast of the town hall and is one of the largest Chinese cemeteries in Malaysia. With a large community of dead, there is also a large market opportunity for offerings for the dead. Currency, plane tickets and other items for the afterlife can by purchased and then are burned to help ease the burdens of loved ones in the after life.
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