Malacca

Dutch Square in Bandar Hilir is exactly the kind of place you stumble upon when you're mildly lost, slightly sunburned, and in desperate need of a good anecdote to justify your trip. Standing defiantly red and photogenically proud, this vibrant colonial plaza is as unapologetic as a tipsy uncle at a wedding. Built by the Dutch in the 17th century-who, having sailed halfway around the globe, decided that what Malacca really needed was brick architecture and a sturdy Protestant church-Dutch Square now radiates a peculiar charm, with Christ Church serving as its postcard-perfect centerpiece. Turning up early in the morning will spare you the hordes of selfie-stick wielders, and ensure better photos, cooler temperatures, and your sanity intact. Plan your visit about a week ahead, especially during weekends or local holidays when the site morphs into a carnival of vendors hawking everything from embroidered T-shirts to stomach-scorching snacks. Bring sunscreen, bottled water, and at least 30 Malaysian Ringgit for cheeky street eats or irresistibly kitschy souvenirs. Sure, it's touristy enough to make any self-respecting traveler cringe slightly, but trust me-Dutch Square is still undeniably worth your afternoon, if only to revel in the delicious absurdity of finding a slice of 17th-century Amsterdam stubbornly thriving in coastal Malaysia.