Even though Penang is a small island, the diversity of experiences that it offers has always captivated tourists. As it promises everything from nature and culture to history and cuisine, it has earned it the title of Pearl of the Orient. This Malaysian city has something for everyone. Whether you are a beach lover, an adventurer, or a foodie, it is time to learn about the best things to do in Penang for a weekend getaway. 

There are only a few places in the world that combine as many exciting things and natural beauty in one place as Penang. From the densest and tropical rainforest to the most mesmerising tropical views, this city is a dream come true for nature lovers. But the city’s charm is not limited to these exceptional natural landscapes alone. You will find it everywhere, from its rich culture to the most mesmerising heritage and history. Whether you’re flying long-haul or planning Penang holidays from the UK, this destination guarantees a weekend full of endless and unique experiences.

Best Things to Do in Penang on the Weekend

We are here with the perfect two-day itinerary for your weekend getaway in Penang. Our goal is to ensure you have the most memorable experiences the city offers. 

Day 1: All About Exploring Culture and Heritage 

You can never go wrong with starting your first day in Penang, exploring its glorious heritage sites, and having the most immersive cultural retreat. There is so much to see in this historically rich area that will give you a unique experience on every turn. Let’s talk about some of the most incredible things to do to explore the culture and heritage of Penang on day one of your weekend getaway to this vibrant city. 

•  A Visit to George Town’s Street Art & Heritage Trails

Penang Georgetown

There is no better way to start your trip of exploring the culture and heritage of the city than a visit to George Town. You will feel like you have entered an open-air museum while you are here. The beautiful sight features vibrant colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, and exceptional street murals by renowned artists, such as Ernest Zacharevic. The best way to explore this ancient town is by renting a bike or by taking a morning walk across the town. 

• Explore Kek Lok Si Temple

Being one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, this temple surely has a charm that attracts tourists. This glorious complex is located on top of Air Itam. Some of the prominent features of this temple complex include the towering Goddess of Mercy statue and the beautiful pagodas. And let’s not forget about the most breathtaking and panoramic views of the beautiful city. 

• Stroll Through Penang Hill

Penang hill viewpoint

You can end your day with a more relaxing activity, like taking a funicular train to Penang Hill. This is the ultimate place to refresh your mind and unwind in the cool air and amidst the mesmerising, sweeping views of the island. Attractions include The Habitat, a rainforest canopy walk, and David Brown’s Restaurant, offering a delicious high tea with a beautiful view. 

Day 2: Indulge Your Taste Buds & Explore Nature

Your second day in Penang should be all about indulging in the flavoursome cuisine of Penang and exploring the natural beauty of this beautiful region. You will have endless things to do during this day too, because Penang has the most mesmerising landscapes and incredible food that never fails to amaze tourists. Let’s go through some activities that you can do if you want to make the most of this day in the city. 

• Feast at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre

Not many people know this, but Penang is referred to as the food capital of Malaysia. Therefore, you can expect some delicious meals during your time here. And a breakfast at the Gurney Drive Hawker Centre will surely give you one of the most favourite meals of your life. But for this, you will have to wake up early. Some of the most magical things that you can try here include Rojak, Char Kway Teow, Penang Laksa, and Cendol. 

• Relax at Batu Feringghi Beach

Batu Ferringhi beach

Who doesn’t love a relaxing beach day? Once you have treated yourself to a delicious breakfast, you must make a trip to this beautiful beach. This place is perfect to make your sun, sand, and sea dreams come true. Adventurous things that you can do while you are at this beach include jet-skiing and parasailing. If you stay until the evening, you can visit the evening market, where you can buy beautiful souvenirs, local crafts, and enjoy delicious street food.

• Discover Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm

This butterfly farm is a haven for every nature lover. Also, if you are in the city with kids, they will surely love this beautiful tourist attraction. At this eco-park, you will witness thousands of vibrant butterflies, insects, and reptiles in stunning landscape gardens. 

Final Words

Spending a weekend in Penang can never be a bad idea. This beautiful city has its charm, which is unmatched, and promises countless vibrant experiences. From stunning landscapes to glorious history and a rich culture, everything here is worth exploring. You will also fall in love with the local cuisine that is popular in the whole country. 

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Be carried away by the sunset, the wonderful beauty of Malaysia‘s wonderful beaches, upon whose soft, smooth ground your foot may walk strongly. All the beaches glow in a mix of orange, pink, and purple colours when the sun goes below the horizon line. From crowded Batu Feringghi to secluded Rawa Island, a matchless sunset destination is to be found.

The Most Romantic Beaches in Malaysia

Malaysia, with its lovely beaches and lovely islands, is a honeymooners’ first holiday destination to spend their beach vacation. It’s a clean beach and a silver beach; it’s a beach that is renowned all over the world due to its beauty and tranquillity. A wonderful holiday or an adventure holiday, a flight to Penang from the UK can be your gateway to this island paradise. To make a perfect start for your Malaysian beach holiday, start with Penang. It’s a combination of sunny beaches and cultures.

Langkawi: Jewel of Kedah

Want to experience the sunny weather? Then visit Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah. It is heaven on earth. The breathtaking view of the sun displaying different colours is breathtaking. Have a quiet walk at Pantai Cenang. The soothing waves sound soul-fresh winds are indescribable. View the sunset with a glass of beverage and let the elegance of Langkawi reach deep into your soul.

Pulau Perhentian: Tropical Paradise

Walking on the sandy beaches is so satisfying. With the sea that shines like glitter. Snorkel over colourful coral reefs. The fish in the sea will create a circle around you which is beyond expectations. The white beaches give a breathtaking view. Enter into a haven in the sea of colours, which is teeming with life. Lounge on a coconut, pass the time, and indulge. Pulau Perhentian is not a place; it’s an experience provider.

Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu

Lovely scene on a share with cooling sea wind at sunset at Tanjung Aru beach of Kota Kinabalu. Where the horizon would be a colourful rainbow that invites one onto its beach shore.

Must not miss:

• Royal sunset photo shoot.
• Delicious street food here.
• Sand beach sunset signing walk.
• Entertaining warm night beach volleyball match with locals.
• Ice-cold beverages at beach restaurants.

This beach is best for life memories!

Rawa Island: Jewel of Serenity

This paradise world is known as Rawa Island. Where the relief reveals nature’s unspoiled beauty in white sand beaches and blue crystal water. Rawa Island is a quiet retreat, offering a white, silky sandy beach and a blue, glinting sea for a peaceful nature vacation. So good-sized island paradise is beautiful to witness a love sunset, colour play in the horizon while the sun sets below.

Batu Feringghi: Penang

Batu Feringghi, Penang, is a golden palm oasis that sweeps in every direction and is the quest for adventure and peace. Day merges into dusk with hues of rapt passion enveloping the horizon, claiming a kingly rule of your saunter along the shores of sand.

Relish cold tropical cocktails in the beach bars at sunset. Relish the water sports splash or just relax as gently lapping waves sensually caress your toes.

Each night here enfolds you with Batu Feringghi magic.

Redang Island: Water as Crystal

The instant you place your foot upon Redang Island’s ground, you embrace crystal clear water that glimmers like a diamond. You dive into it, bathing in its infinity as coral reefs and friendly fish greet you warmly with affectionate arms.

Amenities of this paradise are:

• White cottony pearly beach
• Blinding blue and green sea
• Best destination to snorkel and swim
• Magic sunset
• Relaxing atmosphere

Redang Island’s beauty will be addictive!

Sipadan Island: Diving and Sunset

Boat cruise along picturesque Redang Island. Diving from Sipadan Island is a lifetime experience. With morning and evening diving before and after sunrise,t of unblemished beauty. Swimming in water as clear as a gem, with a riot of colours, turquoise, sea coral, and rainbow-coloured fish. Twilight on the beach colours the horizon orange and sparkles off the waves. Sipadan is not diving, it’s looking at nature in wonder.

Conclusion

Malaysian sunset beaches never run out of minutes. Either basking in the clean sands of Langkawi or getting submerged in the wild, frantic landscape at Tanjung Aru Beach. With over 4,600 kilometres of coastline, Malaysia effectively has an infinite array of locations.

Malaysia Airlines flight ought to be able to unwind and have a relaxing, soothing journey, closer to these sea gems in comfort and confidence.

Every sunset is a masterpiece that frees your imagination and wings your soul. Hold onto the sun and venture out, enjoy breathtaking sights. Bask in the postcard-picture prettiness of Malaysia’s coastline!

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Are you craving calm, uncrowded beaches where you can relax and spend time with yourself? If so, keep Malaysia at the top of your list. Malaysia is known for its great beaches. But there’s a secret, it also has lots of peaceful, hidden beaches. These places are pretty and not crowded, perfect for a cool and calm holiday. If you’re looking for a relaxing trip, you are at the right place. In this blog post, I’ve mentioned some of the best hidden beaches in Malaysia to visit.

Top Hidden Beaches in Malaysia

Gem Island, Terengganu
– one of Malaysia’s Hidden Beaches

Gem Island, Terengganu

Ever dreamed of having a private island all to yourself? Well,  Gem Island (Pulau Gemilang) is a tiny, special island that someone owns. You can find it off the coast of Terengganu. And you can easily reach it with a 10-minute boat trip from Marang Jetty.

Because there’s only one resort on the island, not many people visit. You can enjoy amazing snorkelling, and the interesting part is that the sea is full of active marine life. There’s no public transport or big shops,  so the beach remains peaceful all year. So, if you are booking flights to Malaysia from the UK, this place is perfect for a peaceful escape.

Key facts:

• Entry point: Marang Jetty
• Accommodation: Gem Island Resort
• Best time to visit: March to October (dry season)

Kampi Beach, Penang

If you are looking for a very private beach in Penang, Kampi Beach is perfect for you. You can only reach it by hiking or by boat. There aren’t any buildings or facilities there, so it’s a completely natural place.

All you have to do is walk about  2.5 to 3 hours through the forest, and you’ll find Kampi. It’s not easy to get there, so you won’t find many people. That’s why it’s one of the most natural and peaceful beaches on Penang Island.

Key facts:

• Access: Jungle trail or boat from Teluk Bahang
• Facilities: None
• Visitor volume: Very low

Teluk Dalam, Perhentian Besar

Are you curious about a more peaceful spot on the bigger Perhentian Island? That’s Teluk Dalam Bay! You have to take a boat to reach it. Although it is not as famous as Long Beach and Coral Bay, Teluk Dalam Bay is a popular choice for visitors looking for affordable places to stay.

It’s a peaceful place. The water here is smooth, and you won’t find many tourists here during the day.  Since there aren’t many restaurants or bars, it stays peaceful. It’s perfect for families or couples looking for a peaceful escape.

Key facts:

• Island: Perhentian Besar
• Closest jetty: Kuala Besut
• Travel season: March to October

Juara Beach, Tioman Island

Want to visit a slice of paradise on earth?  Go to Juara Beach. It’s a peaceful spot on the east of Tioman Island. It’s not as easy to reach as other beaches. First, you take a boat (ferry) to Tekek, then a special four-wheel-drive car takes you over the island.

Now close your eyes and imagine a place with a really big, peaceful sandy beach and a calm village life. That’s Jaura! And do you know the interesting part? They also have a turtle hatchery where you can either help or just visit and learn about the turtles. 

Key facts:

• Travel time from Mersing: Around 2–3 hours, including ferry and drive
• Accommodation: Small family-run chalets
• Activities: Snorkelling, turtle conservation, surfing during monsoon months

Sipadan Islands, Sabah

Want to visit a special island in Malaysia? Go to Sipadan without having a second thought. It’s Malaysia’s only island in the open ocean. It is made of living corals on the top of an old volcano. Sipadan is famous worldwide for diving, but it’s very protected. Only 176 people can visit daily. You can’t stay overnight or just relax on the beach, so the shores stay perfectly clean and undeveloped.

Key facts:

• Access: Via Semporna, then boat to Sipadan (permit required)
• Activities: Scuba diving, marine observation
• Restrictions: No accommodation on the island; diving-only permits
• Protected status: Marine conservation area since 2004

Pulau Tiga Park, Sabah 

Did you know that Pulau Tiga is often known as “Survivor Island” because a TV show was filmed there in 2000. It’s about 10 km off Sabah‘s west coast and is a protected ocean area. Even though it’s famous, not many people visit, so it’s still quiet. It has clean beaches and special volcanic mud pools.

Key facts:

• Entry point: Kuala Penyu (2 hours from Kota Kinabalu)
• Access: 20-minute speedboat ride from Kuala Penyu Jetty
• Facilities: Limited – one or two resorts and basic amenities
• Activities: Beach walks, snorkelling, mud bath

Final Words

If you think Malaysia only has famous beaches, you are wrong. Forget the crowded beaches. You can find peaceful, hidden beaches like Penang, Terengganu, and Sabah. They’re perfect if you want peace and nature away from big crowds.

Thinking about your next beach trip? Instead of going where everyone else goes, why not try a quieter, less famous place? You’ll probably find fewer people, cleaner sand and water, and a more real, local feel. And you know, with multiple Malaysian Airlines, you can easily reach these peaceful, hidden beaches because they offer many regional and domestic flights.

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Having an unexpected three-day holiday around the Chinese New Year, and the travel bug still eating on me even after moving to my dream place, Thailand, I took the chance of a discounted return flight and traveled to Georgetown, Penang. Among the hundreds idyllic islands and cities spread between Thailand and Malaysia, why Georgetown?

Why Georgetown?

Cheong Fah Tze Mansion

Because the city (Malaysia’s second largest) boasts an incredible combination of art, business, colonial heritage and a delightful local cuisine. In reason of the different cultures that call Penang home, Georgetown’s architecture is incredibly varied, and temples stand just steps from mosques while traditional Peranakan houses are around the corner from grand colonial buildings. Coming from the hustle and bustle of downtown Bangkok, it’s such a pleasure to walk in this pedestrian friendly city where time stands still. It’s China meets the British, meets Malay, meets India, meets the Dutch, meets Portugal, and for sure I’m forgetting someone else. So, why not? 

I had been in Penang in 2006 but at that time Georgetown hadn’t impressed me: all I remember was an old-fashioned and depressed city with dirty roads. However, I heard that things had changed for the better, and I wanted to give it a second try. 

It all started in 2008 when, after being listed as World Heritage Site by the UNESCO for its many original Chinese shophouses and historical architecture, the city council asked a team of artists to create art installations to tell its story. That first project paved the way for more artists to come and nowadays street art is displayed in many buildings downtown, while ongoing projects attract artists and artisans, and new galleries and boutiques open every month. 

Street Art

Little children on a bicycle by Zacharevich

Street art is the perfect excuse to go on a treasure hunt by foot, by bicycle or trishaw, and this is what I did. Both days I woke up early and started wondering around, phone in one hand, a map in the other, looking for Lithuanian artist Zacharevich’s series of murals called “Mirrors George Town”. The “Boy on a bike” and “Little boy with pet dinosaur” are two of the most famous and interesting paintings in the city. “Little children on a bicycle” is a variation of the former, with a real bike instead of a motorcycle. “Little girl in blue” is a 20-foot mural, again by Zacharevich, in Muntri street. Ah Quee street, Armenian street, Lebuh Leith and Weld Quai are some of the streets with worth-to-see murals, but keep your eyes open all around the city, or pick up a Penang street art map at the Tourist Information Centre, because Art is everywhere in Georgetown.

The Food

The second reason why I chose to go back to Penang is the food. Food in Georgetown reflects the mixed nationalities and cultures that call the city home, and restaurants (hole-in-the-wall restaurants as well as hipster coffee places and haute cuisine venues) are thriving. On my second day, after a full English breakfast near my hotel, I ventured out for a walk in Little India and couldn’t resist a second serve of freshly cooked samosa from a street stall. Then it was lunch time, and who could say no to a Malay spicy soup and curry? Certainly not me. At dinner I had jaozi (Chinese dumplings) and some steamed veggies in soya sauce, followed by Italian gelato.

Penang Hill cable car

Chinese New Year (known as Spring Festival in China) was approaching, and the city was embellished with red lanterns and decorations all around houses and temples. Most of the Malay Chinese that live in Penang come from Fujian province, or from Guangdong, and today 40% of the island’s population is of Chinese ethnicity, so no wonder that the Spring Festival in Georgetown involves large celebrations.

Among all the red and gold decorations displayed in the festive city, though, my new favourite colour are the Indigo blue walls of the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion. In an ideal life I would be eating samosa for breakfast, ride a boat to work every day, and live in this house with a monkey pet, ten cats and a guy who can cook like Tony Bourdain. This famous mansion was the creation and nest of one of the wealthiest Chinese industrials in Asia, and it has been turned into a boutique hotel by the present owners. It can be visited three times a day, and the one-hour tour is led by the lively landlord herself. Go check it out, and you’ll learn some interesting facts about the house and the man behind it. 

Penang Hill & Entopia

Besides eating and art hunting, in Penang I spent a day hiking the famous Penang Hill and visiting the incredibly beautiful butterfly garden of Entopia. The former is the most famous place in Penang for trekking as not only it offers fabulous views of Georgetown, but the fun part starts even before reaching the destination: a funicular train to Penang Hill leaves from the bottom of Bukit Bendera. The ticket is quite expensive for foreigners (around 30 Ringit), however this railway is the steepest tunnel track in the world, and Asia

Entopia park

’s longest funicular track. You will pass some picturesque century old colonial-style buildings before reaching the upper level station. At the top of the hill, there are several trails of different lengths and other attractions including shops and restaurants. I did a 2-hour trekking by myself (but free guided walks are available at fixed times) then ate a bite in a food court and descended just after noon in order to go visiting Entopia. 

This is a giant covered garden with a glass roof that lets the sun rays light up the whole area. And it houses two worlds: Natureland is the outdoor garden where around 15,000 free-flying butterflies, over 150 species of insects and reptiles and more than 200 species of plants live, and The Cocoon is the indoor discovery centre with some educational stations and indoor activities to self discover the insect world. All insects are interesting, but to experience butterflies like you do at Entopia is just fantastic: there are about 60 different species, some as little as a daisy’s petal, some as large as a hand, and they all fly freely around, sometimes landing on you, if you stay still long enough! 

Reaching Entopia takes about 45 minutes from the center of Georgetown, however it’s a very pleasant journey: buses are frequent and air-conditioned, and the routes quite easy to navigate; plus you’ll have the chance to get a glimpse of the island and some beaches. Another option is Grab, very useful if you don’t want to wait for the bus, and quite cheap compared to normal taxis. I used it a few times and both drivers not only spoke perfect English but were eager to provide tips and info. 

I only had two full days to spend in Penang, and that’s why I limited myself to the city of Georgetown and nearby destinations, however the island is a fantastic escape for travellers who want to experience a combination of nature, culture, food and even some beach life: don’t expect the turquoise waters of Samui and Koh Lipe, anyway the island has got plenty of long, white sandy beaches where you’ll have a chance to relax in between tours. Isn’t it great?

Travel Tips

The author in front of a mural art

Several airlines fly to Penang via Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. 

The best way to go around the island is by bus or Grab: buses are frequent and air-conditioned and can be caught from several bus stops in and around Chulia street.

If you plan to go on a hunt for street-art, buy a Penang Street Art map at the Tourist Information Centre: besides the most famous spots, it also shows the less known.

Little India is where you should spend at least an evening while in Georgetown: the restaurants and food stalls are amazing, and more often than not you’ll find yourself in the middle of a wedding, a party or a religious ceremony worth a million photos.

Where to sleep: Georgetown is full of hotels, guesthouses and hostels for any wallet. If your is loaded, the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is surely an outstanding experience. Mine wasn’t loaded but I was very pleased with Kim Haus Penang, a goldsmith/ jewelry shop turned into a café and hostel. 

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After a long hiatus, The Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia is proud to announce its much-anticipated return to the rails in February 2024. Offering a reimagined adventure of Southeast Asia in motion, the train will launch two new seasonal journeys departing from Singapore and travelling through Malaysia’s ever-changing landscapes and vibrant cities: the Essence of Malaysia (November to February) and Wild Malaysia (March to October). The iconic train’s 15 dark green carriages will leave Singapore’s Woodlands station, taking in destinations like Penang, Langkawi and for the first time the Taman Negara National Park, before heading back to the garden city.

With restyled interiors, elevated on board experiences, and enthralling journeys encompassing culture, gastronomy, architecture and the arts, the Eastern & Oriental Express continues to take railway travel in the region to new heights, while setting a new standard of excellence in Southeast Asia.

ESSENCE OF MALAYSIA: A GATEWAY INTO MALAY CULTURE

The Essence of Malaysia is a three-night journey through the country’s western wonders, from Singapore through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and finally to the colourful island of Penang. After a relaxing first day of on-board indulgence, guests will disembark the train in Alor Setar and join a private cruise to Langkawi. For the first time, the Eastern & Oriental Express will offer guests the chance to go on a snorkelling excursion and rub shoulders with the sprawling underwater life that populates the Pulau Payar Marine Park, Langkawi’s prime snorkelling spot.

The third day is dedicated to discovering Penang, a multicultural island whose capital, George Town, boasts century-old UNESCO World Heritage sites, lively street art, and a thrilling food scene. Delving deep into the essence of Penang, guests can visit cultural highlights such as local art galleries and ancient temples in George Town’s Old Quarter; shop in the local markets and partake in an authentic Peranakan cooking class in a private hillside residence followed by a traditional tea ceremony; or soak up the views of George Town’s picturesque streets at their own pace, hopping on traditional tri-shaws and touring the surroundings in the company of local insiders, before rejoining the train and travelling south towards Singapore.

WILD MALAYSIA: EXPLORING SIGHTS UNSEEN

A brand new destination for the Eastern & Oriental Express, the Wild Malaysia itinerary covers the untouched areas surrounding the ‘Jungle Railway’, towards the Eastern side of the peninsula, and gives guests the unique opportunity to visit the Taman Negara National Park. Devised in collaboration with global tiger conservation organisation, Save Wild Tigers, the journey combines blissful moments of relaxation on the train with a dash of adventure. One of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world and a true explorer’s paradise, the Taman Negara National Park is home to hundreds of species such as tigers, leopards, and Sumatran rhinos. Here, guests can embark on a variety of excursions: from learning about the safeguarding of the Malayan Tiger, to a one-of-a-kind photography masterclass and a foraging experience in the jungle.

After an inspiring immersion in the rainforest, on day three guests will travel to the west side to visit Penang. With a choice of three different activities to explore Penang’s artistic, culinary and historic heritage, guests will immerse into local culture before getting back on the train for their last night on board.

LIFE ON BOARD: A CELEBRATION OF LOCAL CULTURE

As they step on board the Eastern & Oriental Express, guests are invited to live and breathe the captivating culture of Southeast Asia at every moment. Days are punctuated by exciting encounters with local characters and passionate artisans, who will unveil the secrets of the region as they teach ancient crafts and tell century-old tales, while the sound of Nanyang jazz and vintage Malay tunes will accompany guests throughout the evenings.

An elevated menu of contemporary dishes rooted in the Peranakan culture awaits guests of the Eastern & Oriental Express. A blend of Chinese, Malay, and other Southeast Asian culinary influences that originated in the Straits Settlements of Penang, Malacca, and Singapore, Peranakan cuisine is known for its bold flavours, intricate preparation methods, and the sapient use of local ingredients. The train’s Executive Chef will celebrate this long established gastronomic tradition while adding a modern twist to ancient recipes turning every meal into a journey through Southeast Asia’s culinary suggestions.

RESTYLING OF AN ICON

The Eastern & Oriental will return to the rails with 15 restyled carriages including eight sleeping cars, two restaurant cars, a Piano Bar Car and the iconic open-air Observation Car. From ornate marquetry, to Malaysian embroidery and oriental silks, the train will sparkle with a sense of contemporary grandeur, bringing in a layered and vibrant experience of Southeast Asia through carefully curated design details and colour schemes.

Warm sanctuaries of cherry wood panelling, the three different cabin categories – Pullman, State and Presidential – are all complete with air-conditioning and private bathrooms. The Pullman cabins are inspired by the radiance of Kuala Lumpur, boasting red sofas juxtaposed with blue cushions, drapery and pelmets that reflect the city’s dramatic skies, while the State cabins reflect Penang’s marine locale with a bright blue and green colour palette. The Presidential cabins celebrate regional opulence, with hues of gold and embroidered décor elements. Further design highlights include the eye-catching green carpet with a Tiger Orchid blooming across the entire length of the Piano Bar Car, carpets infilled with traditional Malay batik in the Malay restaurant, and the Observation Car’s laid back interiors paired with natural wicker details, colourful cushions and hand-painted pots that add a playful layer to the train experience.

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As an avid aquarium enthusiast, you might be wondering where to find the best aquariums in Malaysia. In this guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the top aquariums in Malaysia and what makes them unique. From the marine life displays to the interactive exhibits, we will provide a detailed overview of the aquariums that you should visit.

Aquarium tickets are the key to exploring the fascinating underwater world in Malaysia. With various aquariums throughout the country, visitors can purchase tickets to access a range of marine and freshwater exhibits. From touching starfish to walking through underwater tunnels, purchasing aquarium tickets is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Malaysia.

Aquaria KLCC

Aquaria KLCC

Aquaria KLCC is one of the largest aquariums in Malaysia, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It spans over 60,000 square feet and is home to over 5,000 marine and freshwater creatures. One of the unique features of Aquaria KLCC is the 90-meter long tunnel that takes visitors through an underwater journey. You can get up close with sharks, stingrays, and other exotic sea creatures. The aquarium also offers interactive exhibits, where visitors can touch starfish and learn about marine conservation.

Underwater World Langkawi

Langkawi Underwater World

Underwater World Langkawi is located on the west coast of Malaysia and is the largest aquarium in the country. It houses over 4000 marine and freshwater creatures and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the ocean’s depths. The aquarium features a walk-through tunnel where visitors can see sharks, rays, and turtles swimming overhead. There is also a penguin exhibit where visitors can see these adorable creatures up close. Underwater World Langkawi also has a 3D theatre and a rock pool exhibit where visitors can touch and feel different types of marine life.

Penang Aquarium

Located in the popular tourist destination of Batu Ferringhi, Penang Aquarium offers visitors an up-close experience with marine life. The aquarium houses over 100 species of marine creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. One of the unique features of Penang Aquarium is the touch pool, where visitors can touch and feed marine creatures such as starfish and sea cucumbers. There is also an interactive exhibit where visitors can learn about the marine life found in the surrounding waters.

Lost World of Tambun

Lost World of Tambun

Lost World of Tambun is not just an aquarium but also a water park and amusement park located in Ipoh, Perak. The aquarium is home to over 4,000 marine and freshwater creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and giant groupers. Visitors can explore the underwater world through a walk-through tunnel and see the marine life up close. Lost World of Tambun also offers an interactive exhibit where visitors can learn about the marine conservation efforts and the importance of protecting marine life.

Sea Life Malaysia

Sea Life Malaysia

Sea Life Malaysia is a relatively new aquarium located in Johor Bahru, Johor. It is the first Sea Life aquarium in Malaysia and houses over 13,000 marine creatures. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, including touch pools and a rock pool exhibit where visitors can touch and feel different types of marine life. One of the unique features of Sea Life Malaysia is the underwater tunnel where visitors can see sharks and other exotic sea creatures swimming overhead.

In conclusion, Malaysia has a lot to offer for aquarium enthusiasts. From the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil islands of Langkawi, there are plenty of aquariums to visit. Each aquarium offers a unique experience, from the walk-through tunnels to the interactive exhibits. Whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with family, these aquariums are a must-visit when in Malaysia.

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Sino-Portuguese houses are a unique architectural style found in Southeast Asia. These houses have an interesting history and a cultural significance, which makes them an important part of the region’s heritage.

The Sino-Portuguese house style began in the 16th century when Portuguese traders started trading in Southeast Asian countries. The prolonged contact between the two different cultures led the locals to be inspired by the construction techniques of their new visitors, incorporating many elements into their designs and creating a unique hybrid between Asian and European styles, which is still seen today .

Today these houses are highly sought-after for their historic value and aesthetic appeal; they often serve both residential purposes and commercial activities such as shops or restaurants within their premises, and in some cases they can be preserved through maintenance efforts which help to keep this distinctive aspect of regional culture alive for future generations to appreciate.

Sino-Portuguese houses are one of the icons of Southeast Asian cultural and historical heritage, with a significant presence in Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. These houses are characterised by their unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences, as their name suggests, and represent a synthesis of the two cultures that have contributed to their design and development.

On the one hand we find the Chinese influence which is evident in the traditional elements of the southern Chinese style, such as the layout of the interior spaces and the use of natural materials such as wood and stone. On the other hand, the Portuguese influence is visible in the use of Baroque elements, such as interior decorations, stained glass windows and carved wooden doors.

These houses are much more than just homes: they represent a bridge between two cultures and a testimony of the past, offering a unique experience to visitors who have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this fusion of different cultural traditions and influences. With their charm and historical significance, these Sino-Portuguese houses have become real treasures for local communities, who continue to care for them and preserve this cultural heritage for future generations.

The origins of Sino-Portuguese architecture can be traced back to the 16th century, when merchants from East Asia and Europe began trading with each other along what was then known as the Spice Route. Over time, their interactions became more frequent and they began to incorporate aspects of each culture into their designs, thus creating an entirely new architectural style that combined features such as curved gables or decorative columns associated with European Baroque styles with ornate tiles similar to those used by southern Chinese buildings during that period.

Today Sino-Portuguese houses are very popular throughout Southeast Asia. This is not only because they represent a practical testimony of the encounter between East and West, an encounter that left something that is still worth admiring, but also because of the beauty, practicality and originality of the buildings that have left us, which highlight local craft traditions that have been handed down from generation to generation and enriched during the colonial era.

Although the style of Sino-Portuguese houses basically represents a unique architectural style, that is to say that concept of home and shop typical of that culture that is easy to find in predominantly Chinese cities such as Phuket or George Town, there may be differences from city to city.

In Singapore, for example, Sino-Portuguese style houses are predominantly found in Chinatown. They are typically two or three stories high and feature intricate details such as red brick walls, ornate window frames, ornate balconies, and colourful tile roofs. These features give these buildings a distinctive look from other types of housing in Singapore. Inside these homes one can find spacious living areas with large windows that allow natural light to enter the rooms, while offering spectacular views of the nearby streets or gardens below, depending on where they are located within the city.

In Malaysia, UNESCO has named Malacca and above all George Town, the latter being the capital of the island of Penang, as a World Heritage Site, also and perhaps above all thanks to the neighbourhoods where Sino-Portuguese architecture stands out.

In these cities the most obvious features of these houses are the large windows, often equipped with decorative grilles or shutters to keep out the sunlight and at the same time allow air to pass through; the large verandas that offer shade; the brightly coloured walls decorated with painted ceramic tiles; the wooden balconies adorned with intricate carvings; the high ceilings supported by intricately carved wooden posts or beams; the sloping roofs made of red clay tiles arranged in elaborate patterns reminiscent of those of temples throughout Southeast Asia. Inside these dwellings can be found large courtyards surrounded by galleries filled with antiques collected over the generations, as well as luxurious furniture made from local hardwoods such as teak and rosewood which further enhance the value of the dwelling.

The historic center of Malacca is a unique testimony to the history and culture of this region. Sino-Portuguese buildings with centuries of history are still standing, but they are threatened by urban development projects and it is precisely to preserve this cultural heritage that the government and UNESCO are working together to restore some of these structures and preserve the original ones. Restoration work has been carried out on some structures so that they can once again be appreciated in all their former glory, while others have remained intact, giving visitors an idea of what life was like when settlers arrived here centuries ago .

Sino-Portuguese style houses began to be built in Thailand in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. There too it was an architectural synthesis resulting from the meeting of the distinctive traditional styles of Chinese and Portuguese cultures, whose traders found their meeting point mainly in Phuket Town. Here they are still part of the local landscape, and you can walk in the shade of their arcades wandering back in time between Thalang road, Dibuk road, PhangNga road, Yaowarat road and Krabi road.

Sino-Portuguese buildings were designed to fit the tropical environment, but also to ensure comfort within their walls; features such as large shuttered verandahs allowed for ventilation, while keeping out heat and humidity. The structures themselves were typically two or three stories high, with ornate balconies on each level and decorative columns that could be viewed from outside the house itself. Inside these homes were large courtyards surrounded by rooms filled with intricate wood carvings and colourful paintings depicting scenes of daily life of the time, all for a one-of-a-kind architectural experience unlike any other in the world!

Today these houses remain popular tourist attractions in all South-East Asian countries where they are present, thanks to the contribution of two cultures that have let themselves go to a certain form of permeability, leaving us with the testimony of a unique architecture which, as far as I know, has no equal in the rest of the world.

Images by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto)

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If you are looking to go on a short holiday to somewhere affordable and fun, Penang is one of the best destinations. Just a 45-minute flight away, there is much to explore in this Malaysian state with it being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Transport is very affordable in Penang and you can enjoy the comfort of travelling in a car using Grab services. They are also well-known for their delicious local food which is a big plus point. A 3 days 2 nights trip is sufficient in Penang, and here are some activities you must include in your itinerary.

1. Guided Tour at the Blue Mansion

Also known as the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, this place is now a tourist attraction and hotel with a restaurant. We recommend that you opt for the guided tour as the well-informed staff will share about the interesting history of the mansion as well as the architecture of the mansion which was inspired by feng shui. Remember to take pictures of this beautiful blue building for your Instagram feed!

2. Explore and take photos of the street art

Street art or wall murals are arguably the most iconic feature of Penang. There are so many of them spread all over George Town, you will definitely come across them while exploring the city. Most of them can be found along Armenian Street; however, if you are interested in catching all of them, there are maps easily available online which will assist in your navigation.

3. Visit the Penang Floating Mosque

The reason behind the name of this mosque came from its appearance during high tide, which makes it look like it is floating on water when in fact it was built on silts. Make sure you plan your visit at the right time to catch the scene of the mosque “floating”.

4. Feast on local food

When it comes to delicious food, Penang is definitely of the places known for it. Skip the fancy restaurants and go for their local food! We find that they are generally served in smaller portions compared to what we usually have here in Singapore, but we are not complaining as they are undeniably delectable and cheap. Penang white curry noodles, Assam laksa and prawn noodles are some of the must-haves during your trip.

5. Visit the Kek Lok Si Temple

The Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the main attractions in George Town, Penang, and also one of the biggest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia. Be prepared to spend an hour or two exploring the area and go all the way up via the inclined lift to witness the magnificent statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, as well as a great view of the city.

6. Have fun at the museums

While most of us are used to visiting the historical museums of places, but Penang offers much more than that. We recommend the Wonderfood Museum to learn about their local food culture and the Upside Down Museum for some fun photo-taking experience. For the brave-hearted, visit the dark Ghost Museum and learn about the legends behind the ghosts of each culture. There, you will get to meet Sadako, vampires and even Chinese zombies known as Jiang shi, and take photos with them!

7. Visit The Temple of the Azure Cloud

This attraction as more simply known as Snake Temple is one of the most unique Buddhist temples as it is home to many pit vipers. They are no longer poisonous as they had the venomous fangs extracted. They are also very passive and will not attack visitors, but for your own safety, refrain from provoking or attacking them.

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Penang Hill was designated as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in September 2021, the result of years of concerted effort spearheaded by The Habitat Penang Hill and The Habitat Foundation.

Penang Hill biosphere reserve map

Penang is known for many things, but not much is known about the island’s rich natural biodiversity. This may change especially since the International Coordinating Council (ICC) of Unesco’s Man and the Biosphere Programme formally inducted the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. With this listing, the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve joins a distinguished global network of 714 Biosphere Reserves in 129 countries including 21 transboundary sites.

A view of the Penang National Park and The Habitat Penang Hill from atop the Penang Hill Special Area Plan

The Habitat Penang Hill, an environmental discovery centre that opened in January 2016, and its NGO arm The Habitat Foundation were key in spearheading this historic initiative. A key figure behind this is Reza A. Cockrell, co-founder of both organisations, and director and chairman respectively. Cockrell and his family recognised how special it was to have Penang Hill‘s virgin primary rainforest so close to major human habitation. They were the first to introduce the idea of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme for Penang at a symposium called The Launch: Canopy Science and Forest Conservation in Penang in October 2016.

117 researchers from Universiti Sains Malaysia and from around the world gathered to document the biodiversity of Penang Hill

The Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) was then appointed by the Penang State Government to represent the state in the preparation of the dossier for submission to Unesco. The Penang Hill BioBlitz, a complete forest floor to forest tree-top survey of the biodiversity of the rainforest on Penang Hill, was implemented over a period of two weeks in October 2017. Then, 117 scientists and bio-sciences students from USM, the California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco as well as Singapore, Brunei and Hong Kong recorded more than 2,500 species of flora and fauna including species believed to be new to science. That BioBlitz confirmed that Penang Island’s forests were indeed rich in biodiversity and the findings formed the baseline science that was included in the dossier for submission to Unesco for the UBR nomination.

The Geosesarma faustum or more affectionally referred to as the Vampire Crab is a newly discovered species in the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve (2017)

This designation confirms Penang Hill‘s rich biodiversity and simply reaffirms that the island’s pristine natural heritage and cultural landscapes are truly world-class and should be protected and celebrated. The Unesco listing means that Penang has the opportunity to lead the way, at least in Peninsular Malaysia, to demonstrate that tangible socio-economic benefits can arise from protecting, valuing and celebrating nature rather than just exploiting it.

Penang and Malaysia as a whole, being one of a handful of mega diverse countries in the world, with amazing and bountiful biodiversity assets, have a bright future as far as ecotourism is concerned. In Penang, the Unesco MAB platform will give access to a global network of 714 Biosphere Reserves. Coupled with the already existing Unesco World Heritage Site status for George Town, Penang will be able to promote its rich heritage, culture and now, its rich natural heritage and biodiversity on the world stage.

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Ernest Zacharevic, better known as ZACH, is a Lithuanian artist whose iconic, lighthearted pieces have become enormously popular across the world. By fusing the physical world with his imagination, this artist makes street art that is realistic but creative.

Ernest Zacharevic

Zacharevic was born in Vilnus, Lithuania where he started out young, scribbling with crayons on his dad’s newspaper. At some point, his parents decided to take him to an art school, so his professional art education started when he was eleven. After he graduated, he went to Art Academy to study Graphic arts. ZACHAS found that experience not very inspiring and as too much of a replication of his art during school time. That is why he decided to move to London: “It was a very conservative boarding art school with Greek heads and not much creativity. Afterwards I went to study in London were I graduated with Fine Art BA. It was the opposite – a lot of conceptualism, not much structure.”

Batgirl, 2015, and The Spill, 2014

But, throughout all that time, graffiti was always there, like a parallel world which, according to Ernest, was the constitution of freedom. After an education of classical arts, Ernest began to develop his works in direct contact with the public space where he intervenes the architectural landscape in a fusion between paintings and recycled objects. On his travels through places like Rome, Brussels, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore (among many) he has not seized to create admiration from the public through his outstanding murals.

He first attracted the attention of the international art scene with the creation of large mural interventions scattered across the old town of Penang. His illustrative style and the use of stencils earned him a nickname The Malay Banksy, as he is referred to by some.

Mixed Media works

Old rusty motorbike, Penang, Malaysia

By focusing on the spontaneity of children’s play, Zacharevic can tap into the original instincts of adult viewers who may have lost their ability to access their playful nature. His street art is unpretentious and sometimes ingenious, while steadily staying away from being cloying or overly sentimental. Ernest experiments with objects like for example bikes and old motorcycles in his paintings, giving rise to a true interaction with the local audience. His pieces take on another dimension beyond the painting and the mural in itself and create reactions which provoke an outbreak of smiling faces.

Little Children on a Bicycle, Penang, Malaysia

The imagery mostly consists of children playing, but that theme can range from innocent games to handling weapons or other dangerous “toys.” Based usually on photos he takes, the paintings from Zacharevic are not only immortalizing these random people, but also the happy and playful moments they were caught in:

“Sometimes I get inspired by architecture or the atmosphere of a place and spend time thinking for a site-specific interaction or I have an idea and I look for a right place. Usually I work with portraits so I always walk with my camera taking pictures of what I see. Later I translate it to my artwork.”

Art is Rubbish/Rubbish is Art

Art is Rubbish – Rubbish is Art exhibition

So, at one moment in his life, Zachas found himself living in Penang, Malaysia, and transforming its streets, with a brilliant series of interactive murals. One of the projects there was Mirrors George Town, a part of George Town Festival 2012. Ernest Zacharevic’s wall paintings in George Town include figure drawings and portraits that celebrate the exuberance of life in the inner city. They range from the pensive Boy on a Bike, the lively Little Children on a Bicycle to the whimsical Little Boy with Pet Dinosaur.

Ernest’s first solo exhibition ever was called Art is Rubbish/Rubbish is Art,  which initiated the opening of a new art space in Penang – Old Hin Bus Depot, an abandoned space filled with history. Drawn by the concept “one man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure”, Zacharevic unveiled new artworks, installations and series of murals that serve to evoke a sense of awareness amongst the people about their surroundings.

Rock, Paper, Scissors! In Barcelona

Rock Paper Scissors at Montana Gallery

His inauguration into the western street art scene was in Barcelona, hosted by Montana Gallery in 2014. His very first European show was titled Rock, Paper, Scissors! evoking the media of the display, but also the overwhelming infantile and charming spirit of Ernest Zacharevic’s body of work. The exhibit was the unique opportunity to see some of his portraits and drawings on various materials, and to see different art objects that bear the essence of street life atmosphere.

Made Corrections | Art as Opportunity

Made Corrections Project

The idea of this project is to help gauge the impact art might had on its youth offenders. In order to do so, the organizers are inviting different artists to the facility, and have them work with the inmates on creating artwork or decorate the inside walls of this facility. The group was presented with an amazing opportunity to prove that art can overcome great adversity, marginalization and social exclusion in one fell swoop. Ernest Zacharevic worked with a number of the youth in the facility over a few days on several murals and images. The boys were very interested in the life of an artist, so on the final day Zacha organized an open discussion for them all to ask and share anything in a safe place. The inmates were 14–21 years old and were all incarcerated for extreme crimes in early isolation. The aim of the project was to engage vulnerable adults in the arts and the process of contemporary urban artists.

One of the 25 Most Popular Street Pieces

Ernest Zacharevic -Old Uncle with Coffee Cup

“I see my work as an experience rather than an object. Directing the possible encounters of the people who see my work and the artwork is a game and a challenge I enjoy.”

The style of Ernest Zacharevic can be described as immediate, childish, honest and real. So, it is no wonder that in the end of 2014 Zacha found himself, second year in a row, on the list of the 25 most popular street pieces that StreetArtNews readers ranked. His moving pictures of colorful kids playing around in the city are realistic, tangible and human, almost truly alive. The added dimension provides his work with an interactive quality and makes it even closer to the audience.

Check Ernest Zacharevic works on http://www.ernestzacharevic.com/outdoor

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It was during an Internet search on Penang cultural sites that I discovered the amazing Pinang Peranakan Mansion, the typical home of a rich Straits Born of a century ago, recreated to offer a glimpse of their opulent lifestyle and of their many customs and traditions.

The jewelery section

Straits Born (also known as the Peranakan) were the privileged elite on the Malay Archipelago for half a millennium, and descended from marriages between foreign traders and local women on the Malay Archipelago – Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand -, forming a unique race with a distinctive cultural identity of their own.

The Peranakan comprises the better-known Baba (men) and Nyonya (women) community in Malaysia and South East Asia, communities that mainly flourished in Melaka and Penang (Malaysia), Phuket (Thailand) and Singapore.

Main hall at Peranakan Mansion

Each of these communities, despite their relatively small size, have added to the diversity of the region, encompassing their own infusing unique blend of elaborate customs, traditions and speech, cuisine, attire, jewellery, and architecture – all showcasing various cross-cultural elements at their best. An extravagant complexity branded Peranakan Heritage that remains very much hidden within the communities.

One of the best ways to take a deeper look into the vestiges of this culture is a visit to the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. Owned by a non Baba who collects Peranakan items, this Penang’s heritage mansion shows eclectic design and architecture. Built at the end of the 19th century by one of local history’s famous personalities, this house had once served as the residence and office of Kapitan Chung Keng Kwee.

Upstairs rooms

Peranakan Mansion is a Chinese courtyard house was much like a typical large Baba home of eclectic style, incorporating Chinese carved-wood panels and English floor tiles and Scottish ironworks. Having survived the many decades of neglect and decay, the mansion has now been restored to its former glory of a stately home and displays over 1,000 pieces of antiques and collectibles of the era on display.

A smiley Lillian at the Kapitan private temple

I was lucky to be assigned for my visit to Lillian Tong, the Museum Curator. Lillian has already published two books on Peranakan heritage and is working on one on Chinese jewellery from that era. She, as most Nyonya and Baba do, traces back her roots to five generations  and has discovered to be of Thai origins: her ancestors in fact worshipped Thai divinities and used to go into trance the way Chinese Thais do during Chinese new year.

She is a superb guide I must say, she puts so much passion on what she does and went the extra mile to tell me stories other visitors do not usually hear. She gleamed and shone while, in academic English – her father was British educated -, she explained about good and bad luck believes, about Peranakan weddings that would last 12 days and nights, described grooms and brides embroidered dresses, told about ghosts and zombies, explained curtains and embroideries particularities.

Small house temple

It was such a pleasure hearing about Nyonya and Baba who traveled to look for a prince who needed to be killed before he would inherit a throne, while using staircases with balusters of cast iron from Glasgow featuring hollowed out designs of fleur-de-lis, and entering amazing ambiences like the front hall, richly decorated with European-styled teak furniture, Victorian ceramic figures and glass epergnes, and the main hall, typically separated from the rest of the house by an ornately carved wooden screen in Straits and Chinese homes.

One of the house airy terraces

We walked on tiles from China, on rooms built over columns from Scotland. Peranakan people mixed all sort of traditions, dresses and ways of living, using objects and decorations from Europe and from anywhere available, mingling them with their own. Their dinner services include table covers from Ireland, and porcelain, glass and silverware, all imported from Europe.

Peranakan Mansion contains Queen’s Burmese vases, Chinese dynasties and Victorian era paraphernalia, and even some Arab influences, as the Peranakan people used items without feeling threatened by the Muslim influence. In fact, Straits Born mixed religions as well, mingling their taoism with Buddhism and Christianity.

Newly-wed bedroom

Peranakan Mansion previous name was Hai Kee Chan (Sea Remembrance Hall in Penang Hokkien) and its previous owner was Kapitan Chung Keng Kwee, the richest man in Penang in the late 19th Century. Kapitan Chung was a powerful man who controlled all the dodgy businesses at the time: prostitution, gambling, tin mining, you name it. The house is believed to have been the first casino created by women, who would play cards and domino – there is a clear example of a domino table at the museum. They would of course get caught from time to time and sentenced to different levels of punishments by the local police.

Lillian at the domino table

Lillian went as far as taking me through a corridor to reach Kapitan Chung private temple, where his statue is exposed. This temple apparently was used as an entertainment area by Kapitan Chung, as shown by the ‘carved theater’ on the temple walls, and contained no deities but only ghosts, vampires and cheeky zombies who used to jump over the temple door’s threshold in small leaps, sneaking in and stealing the good luck from Kapitan. I loved these stories.

After decades of neglect, Peranakan Mansion was purchased in 2000 and extensively restored to its former glory by its new owner, who turned it into a museum that opened in 2004.

Peranakan Mansion gave me amazing feeling of how it would be to live in that era. For more detailed information about the Straits Born community, follow historian and anthropologist Julian Davison journeys to uncover their history.

Patio inside Kapitan private temple

Thanks again Peranakan Mansion to allow me to discover a heritage I was not so knowledgeable about, and a special thanks to Lillian Tong for the amazing insight into the Nyonya and Baba culture.

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is open daily between 09.30 am and 17.00 pm. Complimentary guided tours are only available with prior arrangements. Discounts are available for large groups, such as school groups. It is advisable to contact the museum for guided tour arrangements prior to entering the mansion. rmhbaba@gmail.com

Telephone : +60 4-2642929

Admission fees: Adults : RM20 – Children : Free

http://www.pinangperanakanmansion.com.my

For the version in ITALIAN language of this article, click HERE!

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A beautiful specimen of cannonball tree

Penang Botanic Gardens are usually simply called the Botanic Gardens by Penang islanders. Also known as the Waterfalls Gardens – from the 122-metre high waterfall that sends its water down through the gardens -, Penang Botanic Gardens are located in a valley along Jalan Kebun Bunga and are one of the most visited places on the island with some 5,000 people making a beeline for the gardens on weekdays alone. On weekends, public and school holidays, the figure doubles to 10,000.

Set up by the British in 1884 by Charles Curtis of the Gardens & Forests Departments Straits Settlements, this used to be an old granite quarry site, located at the end of Waterfall Road, about 8 kilometres from Georgetown city centre.

The bridge crossing over the stream

Once open to the public, the waterfall has apparently been cordoned off for safety reasons. People visiting the gardens come to jog, exercise, breath the good hilly air or just sit on the lawn and picnic by the water stream.

The environment is beautiful: this well landscaped place contains a huge variety of indigenous and exotic plant species, including cannonball trees (with their unique flowers ‘the size of a cannon ball’), sengkuang trees, pinang palms, black lilies, slipper orchids and more. Some of these trees were imported by the British from other parts of the works, including South America. Some of the more interesting plants at the gardens are kept under lock and key, and are only open to visitors from 07:00 – 19:00. Most trees have signs with their names on it: tamarind, bamboo, pinang palm, mangosteen and lychee.

Green valleys

Penang Botanic Gardens is divided into 12 open sections: the Formal Garden, Lily Pond, Perdana Plant House, Tropical Rainforest Jungle Track, Fern House, Fern Rockery, Aroid Walkaway, Cactus House, Orchidarium (with an amazing collection of specimen), Horticulture Centre, Nursery and Quarry Recreational Park. The path to the Lily Pond is covered in an amazing rainforest vegetation, the pond area is pleasant and serene, and the pond itself, fed by a small waterfall, is filled with aquatic plants.

A great variety of flowers

Walkways in the gardens are easy to walk and accessible to wheelchairs. During your walk it is not unusual to catch sight of fauna and wildlife including colourful birds, black giant squirrels, turtles, a myriad of insects and butterflies and even a resident monitor lizard. The surrounding hills are home to about 200 dusky leaf monkeys who are often seen in the gardens. They can become aggressive if they are fed, so as a rule, do not feed them. There are signs in the park reminding you of that – and of the RM500 fine if you do.

Giant cactuses and ferns around the gardens

I visited the gardens in about 2 hours, though it can take lot longer. There is a shuttle bus at the entrance that for 5 RM it takes you up the hill for a short visit and then back down. It is ok for those with limited mobility or totally unfit, but it is beyond the purpose as in this way you miss most of the sites. I visited the gardens at 5pm and enjoyed my time, though I am told the best time is obviously in the early morning.

At the main entrance you can see a small road going uphill to your left: it is the way to Penang Hill, which can be reached in about one hour walk. It is a steep but delightful and highly rewarding trek, but be very ware of the macaque monkeys along this path, that can be cheeky and frisky if you get too close to them.

The gardens headquarters

How to get there: Penang Botanic Gardens can be reached by buses 7 and 10 (check as routes may change) at the bust station Komtar building in Georgetown.

TransitLink bus 202 runs a route that goes past the Penang Botanical Gardens, on its way to Teluk Bahang.

If you fancy a walk, you can start from Weld Quay (Pengkalan Weld) in Georgetown. Cross the weld by the pedestrian bridge, turn left and walk until you reach the junction with Gat Lebuh Chulia. Turn right and walk the distance until you arrive at Penang Botanic Gardens.

Gardens logos

Address: Pavilion Administrative Complex, Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350, Penang

Opening Hours: Penang Botanic Gardens are open 5.00am to 8.00pm daily. Admission is free. Park officials run guided tours for the public and for organized groups. Call +604 226 4401 or +604 226 4405

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LaBelle shop

I wasn’t on a dark desert highway (Penang roads are anything BUT a highway), neither had cool wind in my hair (Penang weather is hot hot hot, plus I was wearing a helmet!), but still: a Vespa tour of Penang is a great way to discover the island and to get to use one of the iconic symbols of my fatherland: Italy!

For this particular adventure I had planned in advance, contacting the one and only company in Penang (and please don’t quote me here, but I think they are the only ones in the whole of Malaysia) that does Vespa rentals, and we are not talking about vintage vespas here, but flashy, well-maintained new models of the most amazing colours.

In Georgetown

Fateha and husband Feroz welcomed me in their office at the end of Chulia Street in the tourist area of Penang capital Georgetown on a cloudy afternoon. They explained a few tricks on the vehicle: the way to behave in Penang traffic, how to park and avoid getting a ticket, the way to use the stand and the petrol refilling process. A map of the island, a raincoat, the right helmet and a pat on the back, and off they waved me!

I negotiated the busy traffic of Georgetown and as the sun was quickly setting behind the green mountains of Penang north, I sped off towards my destination where I would spend the night, the Hard Rock Hotel Penang, along the coastal road. The amazing lights of a reddish sunset accompanied me all the way to Batu Feringghi, a popular beach area spot for those who want to have picnic and spend time on a sandy beach, and home to the Hard Rock Hotel Penang. I had a great evening there, albeit an early one since the following day was going to be exploration time!

The view from my balcony at Hard Rock Hotel Penang

I woke up very early; from my Hard Rock Hotel Penang sea-front room balcony I marveled at the Andaman sea. The temperature was perfect at that time of the year, not hot nor cold, and I went down to fill the belly at Hard Rock Hotel Penang amazing breakfast buffet. I then started my white Vespa, wore my white helmet and drove off, proud as only a Vespa rider can be, crossing hip and chic Batu Feringghi and heading north-west with the intention of driving a ring route around the island. These were my stopovers:

1- First stop along the way was the Penang Tropical Spice Garden: set up 13 years ago by a British couple who transformed what was an abandoned rubber plantation into one of Malaysia’s award-winning eco-tourism destinations, Penang Tropical Spice Garden feels like a park: giant butterflies, dragonflies, birds, sounds of nature, cicadas, frogs… the kind of place you will not want to leave when the staff will finally announce it is closing time…

2- I then drove on to the nearby headquarters of Penang National Park. Gazetted in 1958, Taman Negara Pulau Penang is one of the few protected areas left in Penang Island, with 1,213 hectares of land facing the sea, an area that consists of forests and wetlands inhabited by a diverse habitat. I took advantage and drove the Vespa along the small roads of the fishermen traditional village that spans a block off the National Park, enjoying the activities of the local fishermen.

Overlooking Teluk Bahang Dam

3- Next destination was nearby Teluk Bahang Dam, the largest dam on Penang, created to provide an alternative source of water supply to the Ayer Itam Dam and the Botanic Gardens Waterfall. From its crest I enjoy a scenic view of the northern coast of Penang, but that was all, since Teluk Bahang Dam is not open to the public. Across the dam is Taman Rimba Forestry Park, starting point of numerous jungle trails which either circle the boundary of the park, pass through, or link up with Batu Feringghi.

4- The next 20km of road then took my two wheeled Vespa to an amazing village called Balik Pulao, which literally means ‘the back of the island’. With the island experiencing a development boom, locals say this part of Penang is disappearing quickly, but it is still lovely, with its views of the island’s west coast, the local farms, the rice fields and the communities of local fishermen. Visit it now before it changes.

Fisherman harbour

5- I drove up the hill and down to the east of Penang, and I decided to stop in Georgetown for a lunch of Indian food and teh tarik and a walk along the town’s Unesco-protected roads.

6- The stopover to Fort Cornwallis was followed by a one-hour guided visit to amazing Peranakan Mansion, the place to go to if you are interested on the history of the Babas and Nyonyas, a prominent community of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world that adopted selected ways of the local Malays and later the colonial British. Get more information on http://www.pinangperanakanmansion.com.my

At the Peranakan Mansion

7- I had just a little extra time left and I decided to get more into nature, heading to Penang Botanical Gardens. Known as ‘Taman Botanical’, this garden has a very well-managed landscape that consists of plenty of exotic plant species. It is well-worth a visit, as the trek along its roads is light and refreshing.

And finally, back I drove to Batu Feringghi, savouring local food along the way at the Gurney food market. In the evening I still had the energy to dance the night away at the Hard Rock Cafe: the live music was great and I could not resist the temptation, in spite of being extremely tired.

It proved to be en extremely interesting day full of sights. Sites visited apart, the Vespa was indeed a great surprise: hip and reliable, I enjoyed very special moments on the saddle of this amazing 150cc machine. Riding it I felt quality, when compared to other scooters. Plus, as there are not so many of these yet on Penang roads, many pointed at it and marveled it when I stopped at traffic lights.

The author with Michael Jackson statue at Hard Rock Cafe

Are you visiting Penang? Do you look for an alternative and classy way to move around for a day or three? Rent a Vespa. You will not regret it!

La Belle Vespa & Scooter Rental

This amazing shop has been renting out Vespas for 5 years. They charge  60 RM per day (this is the real going rate, despite you may read different from some inaccurate posts), which I considered fair as Vespa maintenance is expensive and they have full insurance on all mopeds.

In Georgetown

The service you receive is amazingly good, expect assistance 24 hours in case of problems, and you will indeed come as a customer and leave as a friend as Fateha and Feroz are so so friendly.

To rent a Vespa or another moped from them, you must carry an International Driving License as this is important for insurance purposes. This is just needed for identification and it is not held by the store.

Their address is 440-B Chulia Street, 10200 Penang, and you can contact Miss Fateha on WhatsApp +60164160617

Their FB page is fb.com/vespapenang

The post Vespa tour of Penang appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Come and join the annual Penang Island Jazz Festival, celebrating live jazz and percussions music from local and international artistes under one roof. Artistes from jazz and other genre bands will use this as platform to promote their talents.

The seed of an idea of a jazz festival on an island was planted and conceptualized in 1996 and 8 years later was realized with the birth of the 1st Penang Island Jazz Festival in 2004.

The Penang Island Jazz festival has grown through the years and established itself to be one of the more highly anticipated and important music festivals within the region.

Penang Island Jazz Festival could, of course, exist strictly as an event of appealing live performances from a variety of artists, but by carefully stretching the ears of its fan base, it’s doing more.

With the introduction of Creative Malaysia and Island Jazz Forum, Penang Island Jazz Festival is positioning itself as a more socially conscious festival, one that sees itself as a means to educate and promote at the all-important grass roots level. And that’s exactly as it should be. An independent festival fully owned and organized by The Capricorn Connection, the festival is a 2 day / 1 stage (Jazz By The Beach Stage)event with a number of workshops and a mini Jazz Gallery. With the intention of creating a festival experience, many other supporting activities such as Fringe Stages, “Jazz With A Heart” Charity, Island Jazz Forum, Community Drum Circle, After Hours Jazz Jam and others have been added on in subsequent years.

Held annually on the beautiful island of Penang, the festival – which has been built on a “foundation of friendship” through the support of family and friends – has through the years seen many local and foreign acts from USA, UK, Australia, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Germany, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden, Brazil, Hungary, China, Taiwan, Vietnam, etc.

The festival is supported by the British Council, the Goethe-Institut Malaysia and the Danish Embassy. Penang Island Jazz Festival 2016 will be held at Batu Ferringhi, December 1st – 4th.

http://www.penangjazz.com

https://www.facebook.com/PenangIslandJazzFestival

The post 12th + 1 Penang Island Jazz Festival 2016 appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

A traveller will never be separated from visiting new interesting destinations, and from trying new delicacies of course. I am pretty sure lots of people out there agree with this statement. I know this from my experience in life, and today I will share my knowledge about a place called Butterworth.

I’m eating bah kut teh at jalan raja uda in Butterworth

When I plan a trip, I follow a usual routine every time. A few things pop up in my mind first: the budget, the hotel and its location, the amazing destinations, souvenirs and, not to forget, food! Trust me, I do a lot of research before going anywhere. So, you see how all this is connected and now, since we are talking about food, I want you to visualize food as our topic of the day.

For a start, let me explain: why food? Well, I’m a food lover and will always want to try more. Second, my mother cooks delicious food everyday, making me wonder: is there any food better than her cooking? I am joking of course, but if she heard me say her food is not nice, she would run after me with a slipper in her hand!

Food. Understanding about food is a great thing, and an easy one: we eat so we can live. But if one can eat delicious food, even better right? Have you ever read or hear that Penang is a food paradise within Malaysia? If no, it’s okay because here I am going to share about it. What follows is a list of must-try food and drinks in Butterworth:

FOOD

Bak Kut Teh

Bah Kut Teh

Bak Kut Teh is a Chinese dish that is very popular food in Malaysia and Singapore. When we talk about Bak Kut Teh, the first thing that comes to mind is delicious, nice texture and hot, making you swallow all the juices it generates…

Bak Kut Teh is my favourite dish. It is basically pork ribs in a spices and herbs soup. Its taste is not so salty and the pork meat is normally soft and rich, hence easily chewed. It is delicious when eat in a hot clay. Bak Kut Teh soup colour is a dark brown, and it contains mainly pork meat, meat balls and vegetables. Yet, different places might be using something extra, making it more yummy.

This fabulous dish was introduced in the 19th century and is believed to be able to boost energy in those who eat it. Besides that, it is also good for people with rheumatism conditions thanks to the ingredients like pork ribs and herbs such as Sichuan Lovage Rhizome (Chuan Xiong), Cinnamon, Star anise, Angelica root, Cloves and Coriander.

If you ever have a chance to try this dish, do it! You will not be disappointed.

Char Kway Teow

Fried Kueh Tiaw

Did you know, Char Kway Teow is the healthier noodles dish in the world as it is made of rice? Literally it is flat rice noodles approximately around 0.5 to 1cm in width, so popular in Asian countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Indonesia. In Penang, this dish is a must try dish if you visit the city.

Usually, Char Kway Teow is stir-fried with light and dark soy sauce, chilli, shrimp paste, prawns, de-shelled blood cockles, bean sprouts and Chinese chives.

Sometime people will also add in eggs, Chinese sausages, fishcake, pork or even chicken to make it tastier. This dish can be found mostly at Butterworth Raja Uda evening market. As for recommendation, the best Char Kway Teow are those fried by Thai women.

Wantan Mee

Wantan Mee in Butterworth

Wantan Mee or Wan Than are noodles in a dark flavorful sauce with barbecued pork (char siew) on top. Apart from Bak Kut Teh and Char Kway Teow, Wantan Mee is also one of the famous dishes in Butterworth, Penang.

I first tried this dish in 2013, when my partner brought me to this small shop somewhere at Teluk Air Tawar.

At first glance, I thought it would be just a normal mee, yet when I ate it, I realized its taste was superb. Here are the ingredients: black soy sauce, barbecued pork, leafy vegetables, minced pork, wantan mee which is either deep fried or boiled, salt and pepper.

Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar, a favourite in Butterworth

Nasi Kandar originally is Indian Muslim food. This amazing dish can be found mostly in Penang and it is suitable to be eaten both for lunch and dinner.

Nasi Kandar is steamed rice served together with ingredients such as fried chicken, chicken curry, cubed beef, lamb, fish roe etc. Usually, all the curry flavour from different ingredients will mix into the rice, which is what makes Nasi Kandar taste nice and unique.

For me, eating Nasi Kandar won’t be nice if there are no salted egg and no sambal nasi lemak. My favourite versions are cooked by Pelita Nasi Kandar and Nasi Kandar Subaidah restaurants, though I must say it is nice everywhere.

DRINKS

Cendol Pulut

Cendol Pulut Penang

Have you ever tried Ais Kacang or Air Batu Campur, ABC? If yes, well, Cendol Pulut is part of this family of beverages. The only different thing about it is the ingredients are not the same. Thus, for those who have never tried Ais Kacang or ABC, no worries, I can assure you Cendol Pulut is worth trying.

I start to encounter this beverages, that I can call some sort of traditional ice cream, when I was at university. That day, my friend and I walked outside the campus; we were thirsty and tired so we stopped at the grocery store and bought Cendol Pulut.

It was the first time I tried it, and I found it so unique I became addicted to it.

Ever since, I always buy it anywhere I manage to find it.

Cendol Pulut is made out of a few ingredients: cool and icy coconut milk, sweetener Gula Melaka, glutinous rice (pulut), a green jelly that looks like small worms, and red beans, a great combination to be had in hot sunny days. For those who have never tried it and for those who want to have it again, Penang is definitely the place to find it.

If you have a chance to visit Butterworth in Penang, don’t miss the chance to try these delicacies. Happy eating, bon appetite and selamat menjamu selera!

FOR GREAT DEALS ON PENANG HOTELS, CLICK HERE !

The post Butterworth must-try food appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Local intersection

What is the real feeling of being “a world away”? I discovered that when I followed Eddie on an adventurous morning out to the agricultural district of Balik Pulau. I had been on the island of Penang, in Malaysia, for over a week, hovering between the Komtar area, the Clan Jetties and the Unesco heritage area of Georgetown, walking amongst people, driving along traffic, breathing smog and hearing voices and noises. I needed a break.

Even at 7am, when Eddie picked me up from my hotel, Penang was business as usual: traffic jams, high rise buildings, people running towards somewhere… But then, after a scenic drive along a winding road, we crossed the hills, and what awaited me on Penang‘s west side was a different island to the one I had previously known. A ‘new’ dimension made of nature, peace, slow motion, one indeed that immediately felt more suitable, more humane.

Eddie preparing our bikes for the day

Once we finally arrived at the Audi Dream Farm, the Explore Balik Pulau docking station, I got to chose my bicycle. Do not expect a Merida or a Trek; their bikes have seen better times, but a weekly visit by a local mechanic ensures all essential features work: the brakes and the gears. Mind you, you mainly cycle along flat routes, so gears are not really needed.

Misty morning in Balik Pulau

At 8am, Balik Pulau was still very much asleep, as the sun had not yet appeared from behind the hills. We started our cycling along a canal; we met a few cows – whose meat is used to cook Malaysia popular dish Rendang – farmers on foot and no-one else, before reaching a jetty where two villages, one Chinese one Malay, border each other, their villagers living side by side in respect for each other’s different traditions and beliefs.

A couple of kilometers further, we visited a very neat and well-run goat farm that produces dairy products, its grounds filled with a number of fruit trees that include durian – the most famous produce of the area – jackfruit, starfruit, papaya and more. Behind, the towering hills are covered by fruit orchards all the way to their top. What an amazing area.

Goats at the goat dairy farm

I was really enjoying Eddie, this young laid-back chap of Hokkien Chinese origins who 5 years ago ditched a career as a chef and a job in the IT industry to live in close contact with local people, with animals and with nature. He is such a knowledgeable guy with a hearty laugh and he fed me with tons of information on several subjects.

Owner of the nutmeg farm

We stopped in the centre of the Chinese village to look at their traditional way of life, entered the local temple that hosts the Goddess of Sea and other deities, and browsed the local grocery store and a few local stalls. We then moved along a labyrinth of minor roads, pathways and alleys to discover traditional Malay houses with their well-manicured gardens in local Kampongs – villages in Malay language – where we were literally treated like pedestrians, before arriving at the nutmeg farm. There, the affable owner of third generation of nutmeg farmers gave me a full lecture on this spice that at some point was so precious it served as a currency.

Fishing village in Balik PUlau

Next was a quaint little fishing village surrounded by the fish market where one can buy the catch of the day and by the mangrove forest, where we enjoyed looking at mudskippers doing their things, at the local small boats coming and going, at fishermen sorting out their catch and their nets or simply dozing off on their hammocks. We even sighted a couple of medium-sized monitor lizards! Marvellous.

The 12 kilometre loop was closed when we finally reached back the starting point.

Farming with the heart at the Audi Dream Farm

We were lucky to pick a day that was cloudy, hence not so hot and not rainy either, the perfect day for cycling. The last thing left to do was to try their coffee and a delicious, home-made durian cake. Eddie was also so kind to take me on a guided visit of his Audi Dream Farm. What they are creating on a 2.5 hectares of land is simply amazing: they breed several of the world’s species of pigeons, they have huge aviaries full of what they call ‘love birds’, they keep ducks, chicken, deers (yes – all the way from India) and rabbits, they have huge ponds full of Tilapia fish, and they grow fully organic vegetables in a garden so neat it feels like paradise.

Penang weast coast

Could I have asked for more? Surely not, but Eddie was not done yet. While driving back to Georgetown, he took the time to stop at a south-west area by the sea where I could see the whole west of the island, including the complete hill range; he then drove to rice paddy fields, and even stopped on the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the charming area of Balik Pulau, before sinking back to the Penang eastern world made of cars and cement.

Balik Pulau literally means ‘the back of the island’. Well, after this tour with Eddie, to me it felt more like the front of the island. With the island experiencing a development boom, locals say this part of Penang is disappearing quickly. Visit it now before it changes.

Balik Pulau Countryside Cycling Tour

Enjoy a deserved break of coffee and durian cake

The cycling tour at Balik Pulau departs every afternoon, Saturday and Sunday mornings, and it is the best way to see the countryside of Penang up close and to be touched by the charm of country life at personal level. This tour is suitable to all, from 8 to 80 years old, with or without cycling experience, fit or unfit.

Penang can be mercilessly hot, so bring a hat, sunglasses sunblock, a small towel and a set of spare clothes (at least a spare t-shirt) in case the day is hot and sweaty. Eddie brings along raincoats and lots of information. Water can be bought in small grocery stores along the way, but bring a small bottle for the start.

Balik Pulau cycling tour leaflet

Helmet is not compulsory and it is your choice whether you wear it or not. The ride is along dirt paths and minor roads where hardly any car of bike circulate, so you can bicycle without it, but if you prefer to wear it, it is available for you at the centre.

Tours can be done either in the afternoon or in the early morning – if you opt for the early morning tour, make sure you have your breakfast before pick up. The tour is priced at RM30 per person for the guided cycling tour if you make your way to Balik Pulau, or RM60 per person if you prefer to be picked up from and sent back to your hotel. You can contact Eddie on aventleisure@gmail.com and visit their website on www.explorebalikpulau.com.my/tour for further information, contact and tour reservations.

FOR GREAT DEALS ON ACCOMMODATION IN BALIK PULAU, CLICK HERE !

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