Malacca or Melaka in Malay is the capital city of Malacca state in Malaysia. Easily accessible by road from Singapore, it’s always crowded with tourists from Singapore and locally. Once a thriving Portuguese colony, it’s now a historical town with UNESCO World Heritage status. Besides the Portuguese ruins, the other centre of attraction is Jonker Street.
Jonker Street is the main street in Malacca’s Chinatown. It turns into a weekend market on Friday through Sunday. Lined on both sides by street stalls and conservation shophouses housing art galleries, restaurants, pubs and souvenir shops, you will never get bored. Many smaller side streets branch off from Jonker Street and make for interesting exploration. I made a visit to Malacca on the way back from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore in December 2014.











Besides the main Jonker Street, there are many smaller side lanes that run perpendicular from it. These are considerably less crowded and offer more interesting finds than the usual souvenirs and touristy stuff.





Getting There
Many buses run from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to Malacca. Otherwise you can drive there easily. Take the NS Highway and exit at Ayer Keroh toll. The market is only open on Fridays and weekends so time your visit accordingly.