Malacca is an engaging old town whose architectural gems include Portuguese, Dutch and British buildings, Chinese temples and Nonya (Straits Chinese) houses. Easily seen on foot.

Best Sights : Dutch town hall and clock tower on Red Square, Cheng Hoon Teng, oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia (1646) Baba Nonya Heritage Museum, a unique insight into the Nonya`s opulent lifestyle in Malaysia, at the turn of the century.

Must Do: take a trip down the Malacca river. Look out for the old Chinese clan buildings and unique Malaccan-style wooden houses with long verandahs and tiled steps.

Local Food: Malay and delicious Nonya cooking, especially Laksa lemak soup.

Location: 90 miles east of Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur. Express bus services.
c.Christine Osborne author – Essential Malaysia-AA. Image: Nonya house, Malacca, Malaysia Source: www.copix.co.uk