Visit the cultural melting pot of Southeast Asia

For those seeking the perfect Southeast Asian escape packed with diverse cultural experiences, delicious food, island adventures and breathtaking natural scenery, we have two words for you: Malaysia awaits.

Showcasing all the best bits the region is famous for, Malaysia is a melting pot of rich experiences deeply rooted in the country’s fractured past.

Unbeknownst to many, Malaysia was once one of the world’s most important centres for trade, linking east to west through the port city of Melaka.

The city was blessed by its strategic location along the historic Straits of Malacca, halfway along the main shipping route between India and China.

During the fifteenth century, ships from all over the world stopped in Melaka to replenish supplies and bartered with locals for silk, porcelain and spices in exchange for their onwards journey leaving in their wake a trail of eclectic architecture, culture and cuisines.

Today, Melaka City is a UNESCO World Heritage City packed full of stunning architecture inherited from centuries of Portuguese, Dutch and British rule contrast against the vibrant Southeast Asian flavour of the country’s various cultures.

Historic wonders, cultural delights and natural beauty

Image source: iStock/ahau1969

Melaka is home to one of the oldest European architectural remains: Porta de Santiago.

The ruins are part of the A’Famosa fortress which was built by a Portuguese admiral in 1511 and badly damaged by the Dutch in 1641.

Those seeking a taste of Asian history can visit Melaka’s Sultanate Palace; a replica and tribute to the 15th century home of Malaysia’s sixth sultan that was once the most elaborate palace in the world. Today, it functions as a museum, showcasing the state’s culture.

Visitors can take home a piece of history by paying a visit to Jonker Street and its array of antique stores that feature authentic artefacts and relics, some dating back 300 years.

Image source: iStock/justhavealook

Your clients can delve into the cultural context of their surroundings with a visit to the extravagantly pink Museum of History and Ethnography, housed in the Stadthuys which was the official residence of Dutch governors and their officers from 1645.

Image source: iStock/RAVINDRAN JOHN SMITH

However, the best way to see the city is either with a trishaw or to go on a cruise down the Melaka River, guided by commentary on Melaka’s past and present including old warehouses, ancient shophouses, original bridges and Kampung Morten, a traditional Malay village.

Beyond the historic city is a cornucopia of lush forests, deserted beaches, tropical fruit farms, nature and animal parks as well as a range of resorts and homestays.

Malaysia is ready to welcome your clients, once the time is right to travel again.

Learn more HERE.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

A’Famosa fortress british Discover Dutch Jonker Street malaysia Melaka City Melaka’s Sultanate Palace Porta de Santiago Portuguese southeast asia Stadthuys Straits of Malacca trade UNESCO World Heritage City