Known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Malaysia’s Penang is one of Asia’s most beloved and popular islands. Poets and artists have long been inspired by its natural beauty and blend of new and old worlds. It is an internationally flavoured island, where a Chinese temple, a Muslim mosque, a century-old church and an Indian temple can all be found within a five-minute walk of one another. In its capital city Georgetown, modern skyscrapers stand alongside bustling neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Little India. A visit to Penang introduces travellers to unique cultures and a bevy of memorable experiences for a holiday that will surely rank as one of the best.
Chances are, during your holiday in Penang, you’ll be swept up in the spirit of a festival. With so many ethnicities and religions sharing the same space, there seems to be a special event almost weekly. These give visitors a unique opportunity to see the customs firsthand – dance to music, feast on the foods that have been enjoyed for centuries to celebrate an occasion, and see the pageantry of traditional costumes. Chinese New Year is a spectacular event in Penang and not to missed. It begins on a day somewhere between late January and mid February, according to the Chinese lunar calendar. The 15-day long event has been celebrated since 2,600 BC. There are countless celebrations throughout the year, making a holiday to Penang perfect any time. There’s always a party going on.
Penang also enjoys a duty-free status, along with other destinations in Malaysia. For you, that means fantastic shopping and bargain opportunities galore. Georgetown has western-style shopping malls full of perfume, designer goods, leather, and souvenirs. If you’d like to head off the beaten path, try the flea market in Lorong Kulit. Don’t be shy about bargaining with the vendors. It’s part of the fun. When your shopping bags are full, satisfy your appetite with food specialties from Penang. Hawkers, or road-side vendors, serve up local foods that are wonderfully inexpensive. Try a dish like nasi lemak (a mix of rice and meat), grilled seafood and satay. Those with a sweet tooth will love the desserts here. They are rich and sweet, often flavoured with coconut and sugar. A visit to Penang is an unforgettable experience that pleases all the senses.
*The butterfly farm and batik factory in Teluk Bahang make it a must-visit town.
*The panoramic view from Penang Hill guarantees you’ll have photos that will make friends and family envious.
*The beaches, big and small, crowded and secluded, are perfect for a leisurely day of sunbathing and playing watersports.