This is probably the most authentic heritage home in Malaysia which is preserved in its original state, and unlike the Nyonya museums in Melaka or Penang, you can walk around freely and take photos inside. Mr Tang had to renovated the house himself with an eclectic mix of retro British nostalgia, Beatles paraphernalia and 1940s propaganda posters as well as ornate artefacts from China, wooden Nyonya furniture, an impressive carved shrine and antique porcelain. Head over to Mr. Tang’s Vintage shop ‘Kapitan Antiques House’ on Taiping market square to arrange an appointment to view the house – he might even drive you there.

Built in 1870 and formerly known as the Burma Pool, this is the first swimming pool in Malaysia. It is a uniquely refreshing experience to swim here since its water is free from chlorine, coming straight from the streams of Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut).

Early mornings are the best time to take a hike up Maxwell Hill which is just half an hour from the city centre on foot. The hill is paved the whole way and you will see plenty of locals hiking up to the summit as their daily exercise. The hill is enclosed by a rainforest of fauna that is exclusive to Taiping due to the wet climate and it’s a beautiful walk to take in Malaysia. After the hike, go for a walk in the lake gardens where you will find locals doing tai chi and dance classes. From as early as 6AM, the whole park is full of people enjoying communal exercise. The beautiful gardens were the first of their kind in Malaysia (constructed by the British who based them on London’s Kensington Gardens). The park also has a kitsch atmosphere with swan boats and crazy patterned bridges that zig-zag across the lakes.

This walk will take you all the way through the town, a little along the highway and across an busy bridge surrounded by lush greenery on either side. Although there is a small Sri Lankan and Indian population in Taiping, Taiping is predominantly a Chinese city and at times feels like a small Chinese village, thanks to old men riding their rusty bicycles through the city with a stack of newspapers tied to the back with string.

Aun Tong Coffee Factory is another trespass into history. It was the first coffee factory in Malaysia, roasting since 1933 after a special recipe that involves large amounts of margarine and sugar during the roasting process. Upon arrival, try samples of all types of coffee then explore the inside of the factory and pick up some supplies to take home. How to find it? As soon as you’re on the bridge, just follow the heavenly smell.