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Penang
The potpourri of Penang's diverse cultures is best sampled through a steaming hot serving of the many cuisines on the island. Constantly voted as one of Asia's best locations for sumptuous street food, the melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European culinary traditions is a stimulating adventure for the tastebuds. Make your way to a street stall in Malaysia's food capital and dig into famed favourites like nasi kandar, char kway teow or laksa.
A large island off the northwestern coast of West Malaysia, Penang is a charming Asian city fused with a dazzling array of well-preserved classical Victorian architecture, mostly found within the capital of the city, Georgetown. Colonial-era buildings like Penang City Hall, Fort Cornwallis and the Penang State Museum make an interesting sight for history buffs and architecture fans alike.
You will be photographing colonial architecture, dunking your coins into the wishing well at the Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple, and listening to the calls of prayer at the Kapitan Keling Mosque, all in one afternoon on this culturally diverse and harmoniously multiracial island. A must-see is the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, a restored mansion filled with enthralling antiques from around the world which recreates the lavish lifestyle afforded by wealthy Chinese Straits families in the past.
Take a break from the city for a hike or camp in the Penang National Park, where animal lovers can spot a wide range of wildlife from nesting green turtles to the majestic Brahminy Kite eagles. Explore the nearby Penang Butterfly Farm, a tropical fairyland of winged beauties well-loved by both adults and children. And be sure to check out the Tropical Spice Garden, one of Malaysia’s premier eco-tourism destinations featuring more than 100 herbs and spices growing wild.
For some great views over Penang, head to the top of Penang’s tallest building, Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak, shortened to KOMTAR, which has a viewing platform. Most visitors stay in central Georgetown and the city can mostly be covered by foot. The Rapid Penang bus routes provide a convenient way to get to places further away from the city centre. When in Georgetown, look out for the free Central Area Transit (CAT) shuttle bus, which services major attractions in the area.
The island's tropical climate makes it an attractive year-round destination. With its blend of cultures, it is very easy for your visit to coincide with one of the numerous cultural celebrations. Some of the more dazzling ones include the Chinese New Year celebrations in the Kek Lok Si Temple, and Deepavali, the five-day Hindu “Festival of Lights”, held between October and November.
Guide to Exploring Penang
Top Hotel Deals
Per night/room
7 Sep-8 Sep
Hotel Jen Penang by Shangri-La
Magazine Road, George Town, PenangThe Club lounge is too small. It is usually full between 530pm and 7pm. The airconditioning can be improved as it is too warm to cater the evening crowd. I would like to give at least 4.5-Star but due to the Club Lounge I can give only 3-star until the hotel take a serious view from the the 2 points ...
Per night/room
6 Sep-7 Sep
The Wembley A St Giles Hotel Penang
183, Jalan Magazine, George TownThe food, pool n gym. The staff were friendly though it took several tries before reception or operator picks up my call
Per night/room
28 Aug-29 Aug
The Prestige Hotel Penang
8 Gat Lebuh Gereja, George TownClean and new hotel. Friendly and helpful service. Swimming pool was a little small but ok for my child to play in, with view overlooking the Church Pier Jetty and sea.
Per night/room
11 Sep-12 Sep
Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Batu Ferringhi Beach, George Town, PenangAtmosphere
Per night/room
16 Sep-17 Sep
Eastern And Oriental Hotel
10 Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, PenangThe staff and service was excellent! It was a real treat to stay in this hotel
Per night/room
11 Sep-12 Sep
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Penang
56 Jalan Low Yat, Batu Ferringhi, George Town, PenangStaffs are very helpful and friendly. The toilets in the rooms are too small need to do some upgrading
Per night/room
16 Sep-17 Sep
Lexis Suites Penang
28, Jalan Teluk Kumbar, Bayan Lepas, George Town, PenangThis hotel is away from Georgetown or other famous sightseeing locations. But, it had a good private swimming pool with well maintained conditions. The room was spacious and the dining options were adequate for 2 nights. It was ubfortunate that we could not use kids paly area and the main pool due ...
Per night/room
17 Sep-18 Sep
Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, Penang
Batu Ferringhi Beach, George Town, PenangIt was all great. Great location, friendly, efficient staff. Beautiful facilities.
Top Deals on Flights
These prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices quoted are per person, return, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.
