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PENANG
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June15
B
est explored at a leisurely walking pace, Penang’s largest city, Georgetown, is
saturated with the kind of nostalgic charisma that many Asian cities have lost in
the race to modernise. Thankfully, its recognition as a UNESCOWorld Heritage
Site has helped Penang preserve a large chunk of the city for all to enjoy.
An ideal weekendbreak fromSingapore, for couples and families alike, this quirkyMalaysian
city hasmuch to offer: fantastic food, street art, culture galore, historical temples, Chinese and
British colonial architecture, and unique accommodation.
Our family of four, including an energetic nine-year-old boy and laid-back 11-year-old
girl, recently returned for a second visit, and spent three days exploring the new things,
plus the bits we missed first time round.
EXPLORING GEORGETOWN’S ATMOSPHERIC STREETS
by Katie Roberts
The E & O Hotel in Georgetown on Penang Island, in Malaysia’s far
northwest, is one of those hotels – so refined, relaxed and amiable that
it’s tempting to spend the entire trip holed up inside its hallowed, 130-year-
old halls. But you will want to venture out – especially as Georgetown is
a charming, ramshackle city with fascinating people, culture and cuisine.