Johor Bahru, originally a small fishing village, is now one of the largest cities in Malaysia. Just a bridge away from Singapore, the city is a fine blend between two cultures.
The history of Johor Bahru is rich with the influence of foreign settlers, various religions and its own colourful cultural traditions. To understand the historical landscape of the city, head to the 19th-century royal palace of The Istana Besar. This stunning structure houses the Royal Abu Bakar Museum which has a collection of antiques and heirlooms belonging to the royal family. A visit to the Pasir Gudang Kite Museum will give you a look into the cultural importance of kites in Malaysia.
Johor Bahru, like a typical Malaysian city, has a lot to offer when it comes to food. If you fancy baked goods, try visiting the Salauddin Bakery for baked treats or the Hiap Joo Bakery and biscuit factory. For food enthusiasts who don't mind being a little adventurous, try tasting the traditional fish head curry. Medan Selera Meldrum Walk is a hawker's street selling delicious laksa (coconut milk soup) and ikan bakar (grilled fish rubbed in spices) that you must try to visit during your Johor Bahru trip.
There are a number of things to do when visiting the city of Johor Bahru. You can visit the largest public park of Taman Merdeka, walk along JB City Square, relax by the Desaru beach and shop at AEON Bukit Indah shopping mall or Pasar Karat flea market.