PENANG : A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

A fascinating fusion of the East and West, Penang embraces modernity while retaining its traditions and old world charm. These are reflected in its harmonious multiracial populace and well-preserved heritage buildings which led to George Town being accorded a listing as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site recently. Long regarded as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang entices visitors with its scrumptious cuisines and beautiful coasts. Step into Penang and you will be embraced by a warm sense of long-lost familiarity that you had never known existed. Penang is one of those places that makes you feel home away from home.

TOP FIVE PLACES TO SEE

1. GEORGETOWN INNER CITY


George Town is one of Unesco’s heritage sites, with plenty of religious, architecture, and historical sites.

2. THEE KONG TUA (JADE EMPEROR'S TEMPLE) IN AIR ITAM


The temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, who according Taoist believe, is the supreme ruler of heaven. This temple is the only one in the country built specifically for devotees to pay homage to Thee Kong. After undergoing massive renovation work, the 140-year-old temple is applying for Unesco heritage conservation recognition. During Chinese New Year, devotees throng the temple to pay homage to the deity on his birthday (which falls on the ninth day of the celebration).

3. PENANG HILL


At 821m above sea level, Penang Hill visitors will be privy to some of the grandest colonial mansions (which are now restaurants and guests houses) while enjoying the cool, refreshing air and bird’s eye view of the island.

4. KEK LO SI TEMPLE


Construction for the temple started in 1890 and to date, is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Known as the Temple of Supreme Bliss, Kek Lok Si ranks as among the best known temples in the region.

5. RECLINING BUDDHA


Located in the quaint Pulau Tikus town, Wat Chayamangkalaram was built in 1845 by a Thai Buddhist monk. It houses a 33-meter gold-plated reclining Buddha that attracts devotees from all over the world.


TOP FIVE THINGS TO EAT

1. NASI KANDAR

Rice served with an unending list of curries and dishes meticulously prepared with fish, chicken, squid, prawns and beef – a hearty meal for those who love aromatic spices!

2. LAKSA

There are two variations of the Laksa – one is sour and tangy while the other is cooked with rich coconut milk.

3. CHAR KOAY TEOW

This flat, fried white noodle dish has been described as a taste of heaven and it is certainly no exaggeration!

4. HOKKIEN MEE

The Penang version of this dish is craved by many including those who do not hail from the state. The yellow noodle cooked in tasty prawn soup is definitely a local favourite!

5. NYONYA DISHES, DESSERT AND KUIH

The Nyonya community’s cooking skills are legendary. Infused with herbs and spices, the dishes are a perfect accompaniment to steaming white rice while the desserts and local cakes (kuih) are a sight to behold with their unique soft texture and colourful appearance – sinfully delicious.


PICK OF THE WEEK : LONE PINE HOTEL

Hotel Lone Pine is 17 km from Georgetown and 31 km from Penang International Airport. Penang’s tourist belt and Night Bazaar are within walking distance of the hotel.

Lone Pine Hotel offers 5-star luxury at rock-bottom prices! With free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, and steps from the sandy shores of Batu Ferringhi. It features an outdoor pool, a bar, a spa and fitness centre.

Spacious rooms have wooden flooring and are fitted with satellite channels and a DVD player. Guests can enjoy the sea breeze from their private balcony. A safe, refrigerator and minibar are also provided.

Guest can relax with massage treatments at the hotel’s spa or in the hammocks near the beachfront. A range of water sports and activities are available on the beach, steps from the hotel. Gifts can be purchased at the souvenir shop. Free private parking is provided.

LONE PINE HOTEL IS PERFECT FOR :

1. WEDDING

With long-stretches of sandy beaches graced by lanky palm trees waving in the breeze, a Lone Pine outdoor wedding offers you a divine ceremony at very cheap prices! Celebrate the joyful union with your soulmate over a weekend-long party.

2. SHORT HONEYMOON

If workload is particularly heavy and you can't really make the time for that desired weeks-long honeymoon, Lone Pine will be a romantic and sweet getaway to enjoy a weekend honeymoon.

3. CRAZY WEEKEND GETAWAY WITH FRIENDS

Rumor has it that the owner of the Lone Pine once sent his son to a nearby international school in Penang. That explains why Lone Pine is a favorite weekend destination for bunches of youngster from international schools. Their presence definitely brightens up the atmosphere, making it one of the hippest, liveliest, and relaxed resorts in Penang.

Late night Truth or Dare game is anticipated and largely tolerated by the friendly staff. Booze is easily accessible from the Lone Pine Bar or various 24/7 marts just outside the complex.

4. SHORT FAMILY HOLIDAY

Lone Pine is very children-friendly, with it's own game room (featuring a billiard table, console game facilities, free internet, and various other board games), swimming pool, beaches, and free cable television in the room.

"Lepak Corner", a cozy gathering corner to chat away, play board games, and read books.

For more ideas for short weekend getaway, visit weekend.com.sg