Penang

Penang is a captivating fusion of many ancient cultures and religions. A melting pot of international influences, Penang is regarded by many as having one of the most diverse and colourful cultures in Malaysia. George Town (named after King George III) is Penang’s capital, and an eclectic maze of awe-inspiring skyscrapers, magnificent mosques and charming Chinese temples. Due to its exceptional architectural landscape and beautifully preserved historical buildings, the inner city of George Town has since been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As well as its stunning architecture, many consider George Town to be the food capital of Malaysia – a delicious result of Penang’s different cultures and customs. Penang’s streets offer a delicious mix of mouth-watering street food and exquisite fine dining and are the best place to sample local favourites such as Char Koay Teow and Nasi Kandar. From captivating heritage buildings to beautiful golden beaches, Penang is a truly unique tropical paradise that has something for everyone.

A perfect example of George Town’s magnificent architecture is the stunning Blue Mansion, so named because of its indigo-based lime wash. In depth tour guides offer visitors an extensive roam of the Mansion’s 38-rooms, and a glimpse at its intriguing blend of Eastern and Western design. Another great sight for architecture enthusiasts is the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. This bright mint green building is one of the most beautifully restored structures in the city. The building originally belonged to the wealthy merchant Chung Keng Quee – made clear by the stunning display of elegant antiques, captivating paintings and lovely archways decorated with gold leaf.

A fantastic option is Penang National Park. Although relatively small, it offers an impressive range of wildlife (including sea eagles and brahminy kites), as well as a wealth of stunning flora, forests, mangroves and mudflats. The park is home to the small but stunning Monkey Beach – so named because of its crab-eating macaques – a charming stretch of white sand and green forest. Batu Ferringhi, Penang’s most popular beach on the north west coast of George Town, is the perfect place to unwind. Its golden shoreline and blue waters play second fiddle to its amazing aquatic activities - wind surfing, canoeing and parasailing (for the thrill-seekers!) are all on offer.