Melaka or Malacca is a beautiful city with an impressive history just about two hours away from Kuala Lumpur. Mostly known for the vibrant Jonker Street Night Market and the Red Square, Melaka should definitely be on your travel list if you are planning a visit to Malaysia.
However, a visit to Melaka wouldn’t be complete without the perfect accommodation. If you are looking for a budget-friendly place, in the heart of the city, then you should definitely choose The Rucksack Caratel.
-> Check out the 22 must-see attractions in Melaka here.
The Rucksack Group actually has two properties in Melaka: The Rucksack Caratel Garden Wing and The Rucksack Caratel Jonker Wing. The two properties are situated quite close to each other but their design is different. We had the pleasure to stay for a few nights at the Garden Wing but I want to start by telling you a few things about our visit at the Jonker Wing.
1. The Rucksack Caratel Jonker Wing
The Rucksack Caratel Jonker Wing is just 2 minutes away from the Red Square and Jonker Street. Situated in the heart of the city, it is definitely the perfect spot if you have just one or two days to spend in Melaka.
As you will enter the property, you will first notice the main lobby’s playful design with hammocks to chill while reading a book. Also, I loved all the road signs such as the traffic lights and the zebra crossing painted on the floor. The main lobby actually made me feel like a child again which was awesome!
The rooms’ design is a combination of industrial and modern. They look really stylish and cozy at the same time. The beds are super-comfy and the bathrooms have all the necessary amenities for a great stay.
Are you also planning a trip to Cameron Highlands? Check out this article about the land of endless tea plantations.
2. The Rucksack Caratel Garden Wing
If you are looking for a place a bit further from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, then the Rucksack Caratel Garden Wing is a great choice. Surrounded by nature and with a simple yet modern design, the Rucksack Caratel Garden Wing feels like an oasis. Still close to the main attractions, my stay at the Garden Wing was great. Read below for more details about this awesome place.
Accessibility
Getting from Melaka bus station to the Rucksack Caratel was a breeze. The place is easily accessible from anywhere in the city and the best part is that all Melaka tourist attractions are within walking distance so you won’t have to worry about public transport or taxis.
-> If you’re also planning to visit Penang, read this itinerary!
Reception & Staff
The check-in procedures were smooth and quick and the hotel staff is really helpful. They will provide you with a city map that features all the things to visit in Melaka so don’t worry about researching about the Melaka hot spots.
Also, if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to reach the reception. They are super professional and they will help you with anything.
Our Premier Deluxe King Room
I will start by saying that I absolutely loved this property’s sense of humor. Just check out the ‘do not disturb’ sign below. It is all designed to make you feel at home and relaxed and our room was not an exception.
Since I am traveling a lot (meaning full-time) I am really happy when I find a super-comfy bed to sleep in and the one at the Rucksack Caratel Garden Wing was one of the best. Getting a good night’s sleep and recharging my batteries is all I need after a long day of sightseeing.
Also, I loved that we had an electric kettle and tea to enjoy while admiring the amazing view from our room. With the tall palm trees right outside, it was easy to forget for a second that I was in a hotel room and not in the middle of the jungle.
-> While in Malaysia, visiting Batu Caves is a must!
The bathroom is equipped with all the necessary amenities. A nice touch was that the toilet and the shower were divided which is perfect especially if you are traveling with your partner or a friend. We all know that we, the girls, like to spend a lot of time in the bathroom, especially in the morning. Well, this won’t be a problem anymore.
Breakfast
The breakfast is basic but perfect to fill your tummy for the next few hours. The breakfast menu is quite diverse from one day to another but the usual menu includes fried eggs, beans, pasta, jam and cereals. Also, you can find milk, juice, coffee and tea.
Another good thing is that in the lobby you can find a water dispenser where you can refill your bottle as many times as you like throughout the day.
-> To find out about transport, costs and top destinations, read this Malaysia travel guide!
The pool
Perfect for chilling or exercising a bit, the pool is great on a hot day. You can make some tea and enjoy the sun or read a book at the shadow of the trees. I loved spending the evenings by the pool with a cup of tea. For me, this is the perfect combination for a great day.
Book now!
If you are looking for an affordable place to stay in the heart of Melaka, I totally recommend staying at the Rucksack Caratel. No matter which property you choose, I am sure you will have a great stay.
If you want to book a room at the Garden Wing click here.
May the travel bug bite you!
Disclaimer: I was welcomed at The Rucksack Caratel as a guest. As always, all opinions are my own and they reflect my true, unbiased experience. This post contains affiliate links, at no extra cost to you.
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Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.
She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here.
To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!