Text and Photos by Handri Amauri
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway in Melaka, Casa Del Rio is the place to be. This beautiful home by the river’s name literally means “House by the River” and perfectly mixes luxury with local charm, making it an awesome spot to unwind and soak in the culture.
Tucked along the riverbanks of historic Melaka, Casa Del Rio has a really homey yet luxurious feel.
In terms of Melaka itself, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Casa Del Rio is located right in the middle of those historical sites.
Everything is within walking distance and you can easily walk to Jonker Street, St. Paul’s Hill, and the A Famosa fortress. The area has a rich mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influences, so the whole city feels like a living museum. That blend of history connects well with Casa Del Rio’s architectural style.
When you first step into Casa Del Rio, you can’t help but feel right at home. The design pulls from the region’s rich heritage, reflecting both Portuguese and Spanish architectural influences, with touches of traditional style combined with modern comforts.
Casa Del Rio showcases beautiful Mediterranean architecture, featuring terracotta roofs, arched doorways, and colorful tiles that give it a warm, inviting feel.
The centerpiece is a stunning courtyard with a big pool-like pond, adding a serene touch and reflects the lush surroundings. With only sixty-six rooms in a three-story building, Casa Del Rio gives an intimate and private vibe.
Now let’s talk about the rooms. I had the chance to stay in one of their river view rooms. The room was super cozy with a ceiling fan (and of course; an air-conditioner), decked out in classic furniture made of solid wood giving a timeless feel, balancing elegance with simplicity.
The retro audio system, reminiscent of the nineties, is cleverly tucked just below the buffet, making it easy to miss unless you look closely. It features a radio, a CD player and a USB plug, with its own speakers and some additional ones that are cleverly placed on the ceilings throughout the room, even in the bathroom. The ceiling fan adds a nice touch, keeping the atmosphere comfortable.
One of the highlights of staying here was this unique journal called “My Personal Melaka” that I found at the writing desk by the window in my room. Each room guest gets to write down their thoughts and experiences during their stay.
Reading entries from past guests was a blast—I got to see their unique stories, doodles, and sketches, making me feel connected to everyone who’d stayed there before me. Of course, I added my own thoughts before I left, and it was a nice touch to know that my experience would be part of the hotel’s story.
But the real highlight was the huge balcony that feels straight out of a movie. I felt like Don Juan DeMarco in that setting (without the women of course). And let me tell you why.
Waking up to the sunrise over the river almost felt unreal. I remember stepping out in my bathrobe onto the huge balcony while sipping my morning dose of caffeine, with curtains swiftly blowing in the morning air as I soaked in views of the river, and later, caught the sunrise from my own little slice of paradise.
I’ve never been a morning person my whole life, but I remember thinking to myself right there on the balcony, “if this is what morning feels like, then starting today— I AM a morning person”.
Breakfast at The River Grill was a great way to kickstart the day—local treats, fresh fruits, and all the coffee you need. But lunch was where things got even more interesting.
The Tiffin Lunch, served in a beautifully hand-painted tiffin carrier made by local artists, was a total highlight. Each layer of the tiffin box unveiled traditional Malaysian dishes, from otak -otak to the other amazing delicacies.
It’s not just a meal, but a small journey into Melaka’s rich food culture. I couldn’t help but admire the attention to detail, from the food to the artistry of the container itself, all placed on a beautiful Malaysian batik fabric as a bold ornament of the table arrangement.
Then there was an afternoon tea time by the pool. Yeah, I know, it’s called tea time, but I went with coffee because coffee is my ‘cup of tea’.
They had a great spread of finger foods, mini pastries, macarons, scones, and local snacks, all served in this beautiful setting by the pool. The vibe was super relaxing, and I enjoyed just hanging out and taking in the view.
Dining at the River Café in the evening was another fantastic experience. Located on the southeast corner of the hotel, the cafe is the perfect spot to grab a bite while soaking in the river scene.
The menu had a ton of local flavors, and everything was delicious. I had their delicious rendang, which was so rich in flavor and tender, plus some juicy lamb kurma, fried chicken, and some traditionally grilled fish.
Everything was served with rice and of course sambal, adding that perfect kick. The drinks were refreshing, too, and with the boats passing by and the city lights twinkling in the background, it felt like the perfect evening.
In short, for me Casa Del Rio isn’t just a hotel—it’s a whole vibe, and nevertheless: a home, away from home. Whether you’re lounging on your balcony, enjoying delicious food, or diving into the local culture, this place really has it all. So, are you ready to trade your ordinary with extraordinary? Let’s go with the flow, make your way to Casa Del Rio.
Photos were taken using the Redmi Note 13 Pro + courtesy of Xiaomi.malaysia
