When I learned that Malacca is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, I decided that this would be the place for my first solo travel (The whole experience shared on this post!). It somehow reminds me of Macau, except for the weather of course.

Malacca or Melaka in Malay is considered as the "Historic State" of Malaysia, located on the west coast of the peninsula. The tourism mostly centres on its unique history and culture due to the previous colonizations from different races such as Portuguese, Dutch and British.

(Please excuse the bad quality of the photos as it was very hazy that day and I didn't had a good camera with me.)

The Heritage Trail

After dropping my bags at the hotel, I headed into the town square and started the heritage trail. First things first, grab a map at the Tourist Information Office. It's being given to the tourists for free, just ask the receptionist and they'd be very glad to help.

Across the Tourist Information Office is the what they call the Dutch Square. It could be distinguished by a group of bright, terracotta-red colonial Dutch buildings built between 1660 and 1700.

Located in the Dutch Square is Malaysia's oldest Protestant Church, the Christ Church Melaka which was built in 1753.

Near the Christ Church Melaka is the Stadthuys which means City Hall in Dutch. It is also called the Red Square as it boasts an antique fountain right in front of it. Stadthuys was built in the 1650s to serve as the Governor's residence. Nowadays, it is considered as Malacca's premiere museum since it houses the History and Etnography Museum.

And of course, who wouldn't notice these colorful trishaws right on the Dutch Square! They offer a tour around the town for a very affordable price. Another thing, most has blasting party music that will make the experience more fun. Though, I opted to walk than ride in a trishaw.

Continuing the trail is the hike up to St. Paul's Hill where the St. Paul Church was built in 1521. Only the ruins of the church and lighthouse remains. A statue of St. Francis Xavier stands in front of the church.

Going down from the St. Paul's Hill is a string of museums and heritage buildings.

Another museum worth visiting is the Melaka Sultanate Palace. The wooden building is only a replica of the 15th century palace of the Sultan of Malacca. It displays the history of the ancient Malay Kingdom. Entrance is 10MYR per adult.

Right in the front of Melaka Sultanate Palace is this beautiful garden which is said to be forbidden as the princesses were not allowed to play inside the garden.

At the end of the Sultanate Palace is the Dutch Graveyard. However, the cemetery only houses 5 graveyards.

There were still a lot of museums to see but I wasn't able to go as I was already exhausted 

and hungry. I went back to the Red Square passing along the Melaka River.

Jonker Street Walk

I went straight to Jonker Street to get some food. Jonker Street was once famous for its antique shops. But nowadays, it is one of Malacca's famous tourist spot due to the range of cafes, bars and restaurants that offers a wide range of cuisines.

Every Fridays and Saturdays, Jonker Walk has a night market that sells everything from tasty treats to cheap souvenirs. I was there a little early so I opted to dine at Geographer's Cafe - a corner lot pub that sells Malaccan food.

That is what I kept on telling myself for the past few months now. I wish it could be that easy. I have been dreading to go and wander and explore. My wanderlust soul has been bothering me for quite some time already. I told the best friend "Gusto kong umalis. Yung mag-isa. Susuportahan mo naman ako 'di ba?" With an inquisitive face, she said, "Baka naman naho-homesick ka lang." But no, I wasn't (maybe a little bit). I was pretty sure that it was what I craved, that strong desire to wander - alone.

So the moment I finally got my ways, I did my research, booked my tickets and hotel and just said "Bahala na". Oh yes, finally - I am going somewhere.

Why Malacca, Malaysia? Counting this as my first solitary travel, I wanted to go somewhere nearby and Malacca is just a bus ride away from Singapore. I was also amazed when I saw the historical points of interests it has on pictures. I wanted to see it by myself and take a look into its rich culture.

In all honesty, I didn't feel any hesitations when I embarked on that bus because I know that it is what I really ache for. However, when the bus arrived in Malacca, I felt a little terrified. The only person who knows that I was in MY was the best friend and she doesn't even know the details of it. My big plan was a big "Bahala na."  Haha! Of course, I did my research on the itinerary and transportation and all. But it is still different when you're already there. Nonetheless, when I arrived at Malacca town and saw the tourists, I couldn't help myself but to smile. I was both excited and terrified!

The sky during that day was covered with haze over a thin layer of clouds, not a patch of blue visible anywhere. The air was hot and crisp - a good weather to explore the city. I dropped my things at the hotel and went out for the long walk. I walked and walked and walked. I went museum hopping, admired the old and new infrastructures, watched people, talk to the locals. Learning, reading, and watching as I go along. I seemingly got lost although I know where I am going. I went to a cafe, asked for a table for one and ate alone. I went on a food trip on their night market full of strange looking dishes and delicacies. I talked to a local who knows a few Filipino words.

By the end of the day, I was nothing but exhausted. I sat at the park and just watched the people, listening to their language, though I didn't understand a thing of what they're saying. A little ragged boy came up to me, pointing to my food. I asked him if he wants it, but I cannot understand him, then just went away. Then there was this man holding a little baby girl and teaching her how to smoke for picture's sake. An artist asking to draw my face for 50MYR. I realized this could be one of the best tourist activities in every city - watching people, people-watching.

One thing I loved during this whole experience was that people didn't look at me like I was a freak walking alone. They didn't stare at me with questioning eyes. Though there were a few Filipino tourists doing the opposite to which I just a returned a friendly smile.

But of course, not everything didn't turn out as planned. There was a point when I just wanted to go home and kept thinking, what on earth have I got myself into? I won't go down into details, but I am so proud of myself for being able to collect myself altogether.

Yes, it was a short trip. I was all alone in a foreign land for two days, surrounded by strangers, without internet access and a familiar soul. It felt liberating and at the same time daunting. Still, I went home with self fulfillment and new experiences. Achievement unlocked indeed!