NOW Travel Asia Jan/Feb 2013 issue

Page 109

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION IN MALACCA

The Sterling Hotel

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e stayed her because it is just a short walk away from the Dutch Square and Jonker Street. So, the hotel is located in Melaka’s heritage zone. Our room was in a modernized heritage building with elegant furniture. There are the different sizes of the rooms for both small and big groups of guests. Our room was The Brighton, a signature room that offers a private outdoor Jacuzzi. In the evening we were feeling really tired, at least we could just be in the hotel and enjoyed street lights of Melaka through our windows. Location: Lot 232, KB XXI, Jalan Temenggong, 75100 Melaka Tel: +606 283 1188

Essentials: Language - Bahasa Malaysian is a national language but English is widely spoken. Other main languages are Chinese and Tamil. Currency - Ringgit Malaysian (RM), USD 1 ≈ RM 3.08 Population - Melaka has a population of over 800,000 as of 2008, consisting of 57%Malay, 32% Chinese (including the Nyonya Baba community), and the rest are Indians and Kristang. Religion - The official religion is Islam. Others religions like Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, Christianity are practiced freely. Climate - Generally warm throughout the year with temperature ranging from 21 ºC to 32 ºC. Humidity is high all year round. Lightweight clothing is advisable. However, it is better to dress properly when visiting the places of worship. VISA Requirements: Commonwealth citizens (with exceptions) do not need a visa to enter Malaysia. Nationals of ASEAN countries do not need a visa for a social and business visit up to one month.

Casa Del Rio

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itting by the idyllic Malacca River near the entrance to the historic straits, Casa del Rio is designed to capture curious landmarks and unforgettable view. The Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel is a stone's throw away from the heart of Malacca. The architectural design pays tribute to the Portuguese heritage of Malacca as well as the unique Malacca Sultanate. The uncomplicated and direct approach combines local stone, stucco, wood, and the warm Mediterranean colors of magenta, yellow and ochre over terra cotta go well with the old wrought iron railings and ornamental lighting and provide a touch of the Mediterranean to Casa del Rio. While it blends with the historical surroundings and echoes of the past, the hotel caters for the modern 21st century guests' needs and facilities.

Getting Around: Taxi - Metered Taxis are about everywhere. Taxi drivers are quite friendly though some of them do not speak English. Trishaw - Overdressed trishaws, complete with blaring pop music and fake flowers are available for a short trip around tourist spots. The drivers are very cheerful and friendly. The rate is around RM 40 per hour, but please use your bargaining skill first. Special Thanks to:

Bangkok Office Tel: +66 (0)2636 3380

Bangkok Office Tel: +66 (0)2250 6560-7

NOW Travel Asia 109

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1/12/13 11:59 AM


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