IT has been dubbed "the historical state" by locals.

The Portuguese, Dutch and British forces have all had a presence in Malacca.

The state's population is a mix of Malays, Chinese, Indians, Peranakans and Portuguese.

The result? A charming city that provides a window to the country's past.

What to do

Take a trishaw ride through Malacca's Dutch Square.

A gate known as the Porta de Santiago and a cannon are all that remain today of the A'Famosa Fort.

The Stadthuys, constructed in 1650 as the Dutch governor's official residence, is now a museum exhibiting traditional wedding clothes and artefacts.

The nearby Christ Church is the oldest surviving Dutch church building outside the Netherlands. Its features include jointless ceiling skylights, handcrafted benches and a replica of Leonardo da Vinci's famous painting The Last Supper.

Take a walk up St Paul's Hill. It is best to do this after 3pm, when it gets cooler.

Behind the hill, you can view the remains of the A'Famosa Fort, built by the Portuguese during their colonial rule.

A gate - the Porta de Santiago - and a cannon are all that remain of this once-mighty fortress.

End your evening with a stroll through Jonker Street in Malacca's Chinatown.

On weekend nights, the street takes on a lively carnival atmosphere. The shops there are known for the variety of antiques they sell. Visit Beyond Treasures, which stocks antiques from various Asian countries.

What to eat

You can sample the distinctive nonya-baba cuisine at many local restaurants. Finish off your meal with a refreshing cup of chendol.

Chicken rice balls are another local specialty. Opt for the handmade ones, as they are often tastier.

Drop by the Tan Kim Hock Product Centre on your way home to buy delicacies like gula melaka and dodol.

Getting there

It is convenient to get to Malacca by road. The drive from Kuala Lumpur is two hours long. Buses are convenient and affordable. But you can also take a taxi or rent a car. If you choose to travel by train, the nearest station is in Tampin, about 38km north of Malacca. You can take a bus or taxi from there.

Where to stay

Hotel Puri Melaka

FOR those looking to soak up some local culture, Hotel Puri Melaka is the perfect choice.

This carefully restored Peranakan house exudes old-world charm and is a stone's throw from Malacca's historical precinct.

$$$: Rates range from RM120++ ($51) for a standard room to RM500++ for the Puri Suite.

Everly Resort Hotel

The 388-suite beachfront Everly Resort Hotel offers tourists an idyllic getaway. It is conveniently situated 20 minutes from Malacca town.

$$$: Promotional packages for the coming holidays. Rates from RM168++ onwards.

This article was first published in The New Paper on May 16, 2008.