Jonker Street Melaka

Man, I have not walked this street for years!

Got dragged to it recently by friends. Parking was a bit difficult. Used to park behind Herren St but that space is no longer available as there is some construction work on-going. Fortunately as it was still early, about ten plus, we did found a spot without too much trouble.

Initially I dreaded the thought of walking on the street as I am 'allergic' to the sun. But with my sunglasses and a large blue hat I soon began to enjoy the experience. First stop was at a cafe for refreshments. Recharge before exercise la. Nothing beats Ice Kacang (what else) for a warm day ... except Baskin Robbins (maybe).

Next we stopped at a corner shop selling crystals, stones, glasses, etc. Man, did I spent ages pulling out drawer after drawer full of beautiful pendants made of glass. The lady boss said the materials were imported from Italy but hand-crafted locally. The pendants came in all shapes and sizes and colours. Round, oval, triangle, square. Shaped like leaf, snake, dolphin, etc. Prices ranged from RM49 - RM29. With the help of a friend, I finally chose one. Actually, after much waiting and grumbling, she insisted I bought the one she had picked out. Okay la...as long as I leave with something in hand.

We drifted in and out of shops. There were shops selling souvenirs, clothes, trinkets, handcrafts and many more. Interspersed were shops selling local food such as chicken rice ball, asam laksa, curry noodle, cendol, etc. Just like a shopping mall (only it's non air-conditioned) - shops and food everywhere. Before I knew it, three hours had passed.

Although the shops were non air-conditioned, the interior were cool. Probably because they are double storey, narrow and long in lenght. One even have a well (telaga, betul!) in the interior although it's no longer in use. The original owner of the building must had been wealthy enough to afford a well in his home.

As the day grew, we encountered more and more cars and pedestrians. in fact, as we drove off from our parking lot, we saw the home owner (our car was parked in the lot in front his home) 'talking' with the driver of a car which had queue behind us waiting to park in our space. The home owner obviously wanted to park his own car. So my recommendation is start early and avoid the hassle of locating a parking space. Don't forget your sunglasses and hat.

Oh, roads are narrow and so are the side walks. So if you come with children in tow, keep a tight rein. Even if you're not into shopping or food, just come and see the architecture or just for the experience. You won't be disappointed unless it rains on your day.