Melaka

Mosque on re-claimed sea in Melaka from our hotel window

Quote for World Heritage Org.

Outstanding Universal Value

Melaka and George Town, Malaysia, are remarkable examples of historic  colonial towns on the Straits of Malacca that demonstrate a succession of historical and cultural influences arising from their former function as trading ports linking East and West. These are the most complete surviving historic city centres on the Straits of Malacca with a multi-cultural living heritage originating from the trade routes from Great Britain and Europe through the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent and the Malay Archipelago to China. Both towns bear testimony to a living multi-cultural heritage and tradition of Asia, where the many religions and cultures met and coexisted. They reflect the coming together of cultural elements from the Malay Archipelago, India and China with those of Europe, to create a unique architecture, culture and townscape.

Porto de Santiago Portugeuse 1511-1641

The last of our stops in Malaysia is in Melaka, 153 kms. south of KL. It is an old city designated as a WHS along with Georgetown. While they were both designated at the same time they are two distinctly different cities. The draw here was the old port town built along the river which was a terrific port away from the sea somewhat and the typhoons that used to come over from Sumatra on the other side of the Straits.

You can see the Portuguese influence during their command of the seas, then later the Dutch, and finally the British who finally granted Malaysia it’s independence Aug. 31^st 1956.

The Dutch period 1641-1795

Victoria Fountain, The Brits 1795- 1941 then 1945-1956

The River Walk

Entrance to Jonkers Street, the Chinese quarter

Considered the Birthplace of modern Malaysia in 1956

Modern Malaysian Flag

On our return of our 5 day car rental we covered 1400 kms. Most tourists that we spoke to along the way were shocked to hear that we rented a car to tour rather than take an arranged tour. (Shhhh...it's part of why it's an adventure) We chuckled, since we talked while on the shuttle bus from the Hotel to the resort that " Aren't we glad we don't have to put up with this?" . The company we dealt with is Mayflower, and they delivered and picked up the car from our daughter's place, and immediately offered us a refund without prompting when we returned the car 2 hours earlier than arranged. Pretty good service I'd say for a GWV ( Gutless Wonder Vehicle)