Malacca

Malacca's principal cruise terminal is Melaka Gateway, a newly developed district built to handle cruise vessels and other maritime traffic.

Melaka Gateway lies approximately 10-15 kilometres (about 6-9 miles) from Malacca's historic centre, also known as Melaka. Depending on congestion, a taxi or shuttle bus generally reaches central Malacca in around 20-30 minutes.

Take the printable map ashore.

Present-day Malacca is a lively old city whose appearance hides the depth of its past. Its exceptionally rich history brought World Heritage Site designation in July 2008.

As Malaysia's historical state, Malacca is filled with heritage buildings, ancient landmarks and colonial structures. Colonial powers first encountered Malaysia here, eventually helping shape its modern economic and political system. Forts, museums, churches and towers still carry traces left by British, Dutch and Portuguese forces.

Beyond the old palace and substantial European buildings, the city's older quarter contains many private houses and shops erected by Chinese traders nearly a century or more ago. Their façades often feature beautiful moulded porcelain tiles and painted plaster reliefs. Unfortunately, many are poorly preserved. Some years ago the city government painted every building in the historical district bright brick red, diminishing their aesthetic appeal.

Many museums, shops and restaurants close on Tuesdays, particularly around Jonker Street. Travellers with only one day in Malacca should avoid Tuesday.

Taxis can take passengers anywhere for a charge and may be hailed from the roadside along their numerous routes. Bargain over the price: although drivers are legally required to use a meter, most do not, so agree an amount before getting in.

Trishaw pullers know every major visitor site like the back of their hands and will take you around them. If a trishaw appeals, you can find one at Dutch Square or outside the Mahkota Parade shopping centre. The cost is about $15 an hour.

Malacca is compact enough to discover on foot, and walking through town is an excellent way to appreciate its attractive sights.

• At the meeting point of Klebang and Jalan Pokok Mangga, Geok Hu Keng Temple has a history spanning 130 years.
• Kampung Morten is a village of traditional homes on the Malacca River's western bank.
• Opened on April 17, 1984, Recreational Forest Ayer Keroh covers 359 ha (887 acre) and offers peaceful, tranquil surroundings amid cool greenery.
• Melaka Zoo stands in Ayer Keroh beside the main road linking the Ayer Keroh toll plaza with Melaka town. It is one of Malaysia's finest zoos, if not the best, and is considered better even than the National Zoo. Its reserved-forest location gives animal enclosures a closer resemblance to natural habitats, while trees throughout the grounds provide generous shade on hot, sunny days.

Malaysia uses the ringgit.

Cash machines are common in cities, but obtain money before setting off for smaller islands or jungle areas. Most shops, restaurants and hotels accept cards, although skimming can occur at less reputable businesses.

Tipping is not customary in Malaysia, though hotel porters and taxi drivers appreciate a small gratuity for exemplary service. Expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may display amounts such as RM19++, showing that sales tax (5%) and a service charge (10%) will be added.

Malay, or Bahasa Malaysia, is Malaysia's only official language. Schools teach English and it is spoken widely in cities, although some Malay is useful in rural areas.

Broadband internet is offered by most hotels, cafés that give customers free WiFi, and some restaurants and other cafés. Cable and wireless connections are both available, including hotspots at places such as Starbucks and McDonald's.

For any type of emergency, call 999. From a mobile phone, dial 999 or 112.

Shops in large cities typically open from 10.30am until 9.30pm. Businesses in smaller towns and rural districts tend to begin and finish trading earlier.