My Singaporean friends were invaluable guides in the country of Malaysia. Because I was only there for two days, I was limited to enjoying the wonderful city of Melaka. I at least I got the feel of the country (with the passport stamp to prove it)! :) It's a completely different world once you cross the bridge from Singapore! The sterile Singaporean environment quickly changes to the nitty gritty chaotic landscape of Malaysia. If you like to get your hands dirty, this is it! The culture is down to earth and honest. Imagine my surprise when my friends took me to a local eatery. Don't expect first class service here, it's all local folk and they're pretty laid back. The cook himself (in his sweaty tank top attire) served the meals for us. I wasn't sure what was in my dish but it was tasty and there were no special trips to the bathroom later on.. :)

The Portuguese, Dutch and then the British (yeah Imperialism, not) at one time or another colonized Melaka and remnants of their occupation are everywhere… One interesting site to note is Porta de Santiago built around the beginning of the 1500's. It is a Portuguese fortress that was modified by the Danish when they took over. (Everyone thinks they're an interior decorator I guess.) The view is great from the top of the fort (once you climb the 200 steps or so)! Other sites of note include: The King's Well, the Melaka Christ church and the Ruins of St. Paul's church. Prices are very affordable; the exchange rate for once favoured the Canadian dollar!