Melaka's appeal lies in its colourful past

Melaka is where it all began.

Founded some 755 years ago in, Melaka is the historical state of Malaysia, rich with heritage buildings, ancient landmarks and colonial structures. It was here that colonial forces first made contact with Malaysia, which eventually shaped the country into its current economic and political system. Known as Venice of the East, Melaka's appeal lies in its rich and colourful past.

From a quiet fishing village back in the early 15th century, Melaka grew into the richest port in the world and greatest trading empires. In the 16th century, Melaka enjoyed a reputation as the foremost maritime trading centre in the region. Merchants came from as far as Arabia, China, India and Europe to conduct trade in silk, spices, gold and porcelain. Today, there's a lot more to Melaka in addition to its fascinating stories, legends and historical attractions.

Centuries of multi-racial living vultures have produced varied customs, festivals, foods and languages.

Charming and exciting Melaka is one and a half hours by road from the nation's gateway KLIA or from the capital of Kuala Lumpur. Melaka is in the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia with the arterial North South highway connecting it to Thailand in the north and Singapore in the South. Covering an area of 1,658 square kilometre, Melaka are divided into three district- Alor Gajah, Melaka Tengah & Jasin.

Its strategic locations between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore make it so ideal for the organizers to have the International Meetings and Conference out of Kuala Lumpur. Melaka today is a busy little city, still bustling with activities and trade expansion of a different kind.

Every year, millions of tourist visits Melaka.

In the heart of the city, lies a few an international class hotel to accommodate everyone from near or afar. Hail a trishaw for a ride along a little street that wind through a colourful mishmash of architectural styles. Cruise along Melaka River, then walk along hillocks that have tales to tell, of war ware and treachery, romance and heartbreak.

Its historical influences have bequeathed Melaka with a delightful mixture of people and cultures, all of whom contribute to the charm of this city. Melaka is also a treasure trove of activities and nature pursuits. Those seeking quality healthcare or education can also rely on Melaka's excellent facilities.

As MICE destination, this historical city is without a doubt unbeatable. The richness in Heritage and Culture, low crime rate, safe, stable economics and political environment and affordable for the organizers and the participants where Melaka offers wide choice of venues ranging from international trade centre to hotels with MICE facilities and up to shell sites or multi-purpose venues.

Melaka has a lot more to offer based on the 12 sub-sectors tourism product, namely History, Culture, Recreation, Sports, Shopping, Convention, Health, Education, Agro, "Makan-Makan", Melaka My Second Home and Youth Tourism.

With its chosen slogan "Visit Historic Melaka Means Visit Malaysia", Melaka has so much to offer and has become the melting pot of all the races (Malays, Chinese, India, Portuguese, Peranakan, Chitty and others).

Melaka has been recognised in numerous of publications and award events. We have been listed in New York Times: "45 Places To Go in 2012" where Melaka is the only states in Malaysia has been listed in the publication.

Four hotels in Melaka namely The Majestic Hotel, Courtyard @ Hereen Boutique Hotel, Cafe 1511 and Jonker Boutique Hotel has won the Traveller's Choice 2012: The Best Hotels by the world's largest travel site, Tripadvisor.com for the categories of Top 25 Trendiest Hotel , Top 25 Bargain Hotel, Top 25 B&Bs and Inns, Top 25 Luxury Hotels and Top 20 Hotels for Service.

Four tourism products in Melaka also won in Malaysia Tourism Award 2010/2011 for categories below:

1. Melaka River for Innovative Tourist Attractions Man-Made Attraction/National Culture Heritage Identity Excellent

2. Holiday Inn Melaka for Best Hotel Service 4 Star Hotel (City) Malaysia

3. Sleepover @ Museum for Best Tour Programme(Merit)

4. Best Tourist Guide (Excellence)

From historical heritage sites to its cultural richness, Melaka has been recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNECSO) as the Historic Cities of Malaysia, together with Georgetown, on 7th July 2008. This reflects the succession of historical and cultural influences arising from its roots as a trading port linking East and West.

"VISIT HISTORIC MELAKA MEANS VISIT MALAYSIA"

"MELAKA WORLD HERITAGE CITY, UNESCO"

TOURISM MELAKA

MELAKA CHIEF MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT

G14, GROUND FLOOR,

KOTA CEMERLANG

75450 Ayer Keroh, Melaka, Malaysia

Tel : 606-232 8402 / 232 8403

Fax : 606-232 8367

Email : tourismmelaka2@gmail.com

Website : www.melaka.gov.my

Blog : https://tourismmelakaofficial.blogspot.my

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