Steeped in history, The Majestic Malacca was originally commissioned to accommodate the growing family of a Chinese tycoon named Leong Long Man. Construction of the mansion began in 1927 and was completed two years later. The home was later sold to Lim Heng Fang in 1955, who converted it into a hotel and called it The Majestic. It was the place to be in the 1950s and 1960s, attracting global travellers, merchants and dignitaries including Malaysia's first prime minister. Unfortunately, dwindling business caused it to close down in 2000.
Acknowledging the need to preserve an integral part of Malacca's rich heritage, YTL Hotels stepped in and the property acquisition was finalised in 2006. The historic building was fully restored and reopened as The Majestic Malacca in January 2008 as YTL's first Classic Hotel.
The mansion you see today still showcases the original imported Victorian porcelain tiles and Straits Settlement windows. The mansion houses the Reception area, the Lounge (for afternoon tea and lounging), and the Bar downstairs, while upstairs, guests will find the newly launched Melba at The Mansion, a casual restaurant serving authentic Kristang cuisine.
We obviously jumped at the chance to spend a few days recently with BabySumoKids at The Majestic Malacca, immersing in the beauty of the lovingly restored historic mansion and indulging in Kristang cuisine. During the course of our stay, we fell in love over and over again, with the classic, timeless interior, warm service and delicious food.
After a short 1 1/2 hour drive from KL, we arrived at the hotel and checked-in. A staff walked us to our room (giving us a mini tour of the hotel at the same time), and served us their signature welcome tea in the room.
Signature lychee tea served in a beautiful Chinese teapot. The sweetness of tea is believed to symbolise happy memories.
Elegant and luxurious were the two words that came to mind as we stepped into our Deluxe Room. The 35 sq-m room is sumptuously appointed, with an inviting four poster bed and a gorgeous clawfoot bathtub. There is also a silk-upholstered chaise lounge by the window, a cosy spot to gaze out to the Malacca river or to relax and enjoy a book. Guests can stay connected via complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel during their stay.
Plush, comfortable beds for a good night's sleep
BabySumoKids love soaking in the bathtub and watching their favorite cartoons on the TV ;)
Turndown service - Nyonya kuih ;)
Not to be missed here is a visit to the Spa Village Malacca, for some well-deserved pampering. Spa Village Malacca is the world's first and only spa to base its therapies on the healing heritage of the Baba-Nyonya or Peranakan culture - a unique combination of Chinese and Malay influences. The rich heritage is reflected not only through the therapies but also within the architecture, which provides an environment designed to capture the essence of the location. All spa guests will also enjoy a complimentary soothing hair care ritual, inspired by the elaborate and colorful 12-day Peranakan Wedding ceremony. I walked out rejuvenated and feeling like a queen.
You can read more about my experience with the Egg Rolling Therapy here.
While I was away getting pampered at the spa, Hubby took the kids for a dip in the swimming pool located between Spa Village and the gym. Though compact in size, the kids had fun and enjoyed doing their laps here.
In Malacca, you must experience the local Nyonya and Kristang cuisine. The newly opened Melba at The Mansion is helmed by celebrity chef Melba Nunis and will feature authentic Malacca-Portuguese cuisine, also know as 'Kristang' cuisine.
The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner and will feature a specially crafted menu from Chef Melba’s collection of treasured family recipes. There are over 40 items to choose from currently; the staff are on hand to offer recommendations should you require.
We highly recommend these dishes: Asa, Kaldu Laksa Malaka, Inchimintu Karangezu, Papa Vincent's Chorka Pretu, and Tambrinhyu, just some of many dishes that we enjoyed during our trip here. Click here for the full review of the restaurant.
Breakfast is also served at the same restaurant in the mornings. There will be a small buffet spread of pastries, fresh fruits, fresh juices and cereal, and guests will also be able to order hot items from the menu. We especially love the waffles, poached eggs and fragrant banana passion fruit.
The Bar at The Mansion for your evening cocktails
Did I also mention that the hotel has lots of beautiful, Instagram-worthy spots?
We also like the local snacks placed around the hotel reception, such as iced gems, olive sweets, coconut candy and peanut biscuits. Guests can help themselves to these treats throughout their stay at no extra cost.
The Majestic Malacca also offers a complimentary 2-hour guided walk through historical landmarks around Malacca. There will be two walks available daily, at 10am and 5pm. You should definitely make time for this, as you will learn lots of fascinating facts about this 600-year coastal port. More photos and detailed post about the guided walk here. I have also posted a video of our walk on Instagram.
Truly a fantastic place for a luxurious heritage break. We had such a wonderful stay here, can't wait to come back again!
Thank you to The Majestic Malacca for having us :)
Room rates start from RM390++ per room per night.
Tel: 06-289 8000
Website: http://www.majesticmalacca.com/
GPS Coordinates: 2.201959, 102.252130
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Ooooo...those beaded nyonya skippers. My mum had those!!!
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