Travel Light: The ultimate beginner’s guide to exploring Penang

Penang is an island that is bursting with multicultural content, with influences from Malay, Chinese and European cultures, all blending in together to create an unsurpassed travel experience. With a distinct atmosphere, created by the colonial architecture mainly predominant in George Town, it’s the perfect starting point for tourists who want to experience the history and culture that is unique to this place.

Many visitors will start off from Love Lane Street, which is known as the central of backpackers, and it’s the place where you can find anything, from cheap flowers to art on building walls. This a great place to start your journey as it has plenty of affordable accommodation, restaurants, cafes and historical architecture to explore. But, wherever you choose to start from, you should definitely follow our helpful little guide if you don’t want to miss the best of Penang.

What to explore

Jetties

On the very edge of George Town, there are several jetties, which local clan groups consider home. Once you disregard the tourist crowds, you’ll be able to see that the jetties are places where the locals have managed to survive through a simple way of life, although it’s far from luxury. It’s a spot definitely worth visiting, if you want to witness a world of its own within the Penang island.

Penang Hill

Penang Hill is located approximately six kilometres from George Town, and is 833 meters above sea level. The track will take you through the jungle, right up to the iconic top. From up there, you’ll find the best spot to get a better look of the island and mainland of Penang. It’s also an undeniably great spot for awaiting the sunrise or watching the sun go down. Once you’re there, you’ll be able to stop and grab a bite at one of the many restaurants. Penang Hill is almost a world of its own as it caters to the needs of tourists while still providing insanely gorgeous natural treasures. You can also explore the Hindu and Muslim shrines, dazzling gardens and the Owl Museum.

Street Art

There is plenty of art splattered around the streets and along alleyways, which make for a great photo-op! If you’re taking your camera with you, this is one of the activities you must put on your itinerary – some of the designs are just stunning.

Tiki Kerawang Waterfalls

For more breath-taking sights, visit the waterfalls of Tiki Kerawang. You’ll get a spectacular view of the Indian Ocean, and for an additional sprinkle of adventure, you can swim in a freshwater pool that is filled from the waterfall.

Penang National Park

Besides being a gorgeous natural gem that has been untouched and untainted, Penang National Park has several trekking trails that lead to waterfalls, deserted beaches and natural pools, all of which will really indulge your cravings for Penang’s rich natural scenery.

What to Eat

This cultural melting pot is home to diverse cuisines. You can find anything from fresh seafood, sizzling barbecued meats, Chinese noodles, and even frog leg porridge and chicken legs, if you’re really in the mood to try everything.

Street Stalls (Hawker Food)

Every tourist will confirm that Penang really is the mecca of diverse cuisine and that the real deal are the street stalls that sell delicacies beyond tasty. The street stalls are scattered all around the city’s main streets, especially in Lebuh Chulia and they cook up amazing Chinese and Malay dishes.

• We suggest you try the Tari Burger, which is their famous chilli burger, as well as the local delicacy and delicious dessert Ching Pu Leang Thang Shui. If you can’t remember it, write it down, because it’s a must-try.

Restaurants in Little India and Chinatown

If you’re looking for the most affordable food in Penang that’s still finger-licking good, stroll down to Little India and Chinatown. Chinatown is also known as the Backpackers Alley, and is home to cheap gastronomic delights that are going to give your taste buds a thrill. When in Little India, make sure to stop by Restoran Kapitan, which is open all day and night, if you’re craving the best of Indian cuisine.

Where to Stay

Oriental Guest House

Looking for Penang accommodation that is affordable but spacious at the same time? The Oriental Guest House offers the perfect combination of affordable prices and privacy. It has spacious bedrooms, wi-fi throughout, and a quaint little café that opens up into a terrace that’s a joy to lounge in during the day.

Stardust Hotel

If you want to be where all the backpackers in Penang usually stay, then check into the Stardust Hotel. It’s located along Lebuh Chulia, and although it is the lane where backpackers are frequently spotted, it’s really peaceful during the night, so you can get a good night’s sleep.

23 Love Lane

Why not get settled in the centre of the main events? 23 Love Lane is smack in the centre of George Town, so you’re bound to witness all the fun and excitement. The rooms are spacious, and although it might not be as affordable as some accommodation options, it is definitely worth a few extra bucks. You can even get a room with a view of the tropical garden, and enjoy a cup of tea at the restaurant.

We have to give it up to Penang. It has become a truly marvelous gem to explore, and with so much variety to offer, we’re not surprised that more and more tourists are flocking to this peaceful yet thrillingly exciting island to get a taste of the untouched nature and multicultural atmosphere.

Alicia Tham

Photos: Getty Images, 23 Love Lane

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