WHY GEORGE TOWN, PENANG SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT TRAVEL DESTINATION
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PENANG AND SOME HIDDEN GEMS
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My trip to Malaysia continues to George Town. I leave behind the city skyline, the business of city life, and the modernity of Kuala Lumpur to head towards a city that is also modern but that captivates with its blend of history, culture, colorful street arts, and the atmosphere of peace and relax typical of the coastal city. I am referring to the island of Penang, specifically its capital, UNESCO heritage site, George Town.
HOW TO GET HERE:
Getting to Georgetown is quite easy, as it is getting all around Malaysia. You can opt for a flight, departing from all major cities. You can buy tickets online on Skyscanner.com, my favorite flight platform as it compares hundreds of flights showing you the best option. You can also get to Penang by bus or train. I opted for the train and will give you details on how to get there. If you depart from Kuala Lumpur and opt for the train since Penang is an island you will then also have to take a ferry (the crossing is about 15 minutes), which will bring you to your final destination.
From Kuala Lumpur, head towards KL Sentral, the train terminal, you can buy the ticket online on the website KTMB.COM.MY, destination to Butterworth, from there heads towards the dock without leaving the terminal, and embark on the ferry that in about 15 minutes will take you to George Town.
PRO TIP:
bring something warm to cover yourself on the train, trust me, the air conditioning inside has the same temperature as the refrigerator section of the supermarket.
at the ferry ticket booth (the price is under 1 euro), they only accept card payments.
WHAT TO DO AND SEE
OLD TOWN:
George Town has an ancient colonial past behind and this is noticeable from the many buildings, houses, and monuments with an English colonial touch scattered throughout the city, but the beating heart and one of the reasons why many come to visit George Town, is its colorful street arts that gives color and life to the city. There are many murals, always evolving all around the streets and alleys of the old town. While walking through the streets, sharpen your eyes in search of these works of art. The most famous street is probably Armenian Street, it is the perfect place to relax in some cute and hipster coffee shops or visit the many shops.
CLAN JETTIES:
Easily reachable by foot from the old town, visit the Clan Jetties. Floating villages that provide a glimpse into the lives of Chinese immigrants who settled here over a century ago. Chew Jetty is the most popular, but in the spirit of The Wanderlust Syndrome, I am always looking for off-the-beaten paths, and decided to visit Tan Jetty, lesser-known and therefore much quieter, I was able to observe in silence a slice of life without the mass tourism and tourism business, but remember that these are homes where real people live so always show respect and above all do not disrupt their peace.
KEK LOK SI:
George Town’s diverse cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture and temples, such as Kok Lok Si. It is one of the largest temples I have visited, it covers a vast area, and, will probably take half a day to visit this impressive complex built on several levels. To reach the core of the complex you need to take an inclined elevator, or you can opt for hiking the more than 200 steps uphill, but with the heat and the sun, it may not be the wisest idea. You will be given several tickets including return tickets from the top of the temple and tickets to use for getting on a couple of golf carts that will take you to different parts of the complex that are not easily accessible by foot. There is no entrance fee to visit Kek Lok Si except to access some areas. Take your time and enjoy a pleasant and relaxing visit to this magnificent architectural complex among pagodas, temples, zen gardens, imposing statues, and relaxing ponds. Once you finish your visit to Kek Lok Si, you head down to the village below to enjoy some snacks or local delicacies.
BATU FERRINGHI BEACH:
It's not just culture and history, to not forget that Penang is an island, take the time to enjoy and relax on its beaches, the most famous one is definitely Batu Ferringhi Beach.
WHAT AND WHERE TO EAT
George Town has a great food scene, and I can confirm that. There are several spots where to enjoy some delicious food, such as: Red Garden Food Paradise, CF Food Court, and my favorite, Gurney Drive.
GURNEY DRIVE:
It is a street that comes alive when the sun goes down, known for its shopping venues, malls, and its street food. If you are looking for great street food at a low price, visit Gurney Drive Hawker Center.
HIDDEN GEMS
ORANG UTAN ISLAND:
One of the most beautiful experiences I have had on this island, and perhaps during the whole year, was visiting the orangutan sanctuary. If you have time on your itinerary, I recommend taking a day to experience this, and to see a piece of Borneo without having to travel there.
INFORMATION:
Open Monday to Sunday, except Tuesday, from 9:00 to 17:00. Boat schedules to reach the sanctuary:
Departure - Return:
9:45 - 11:00
11:15 - 12:30
12:45 - 14:00
14:15 - 15:30
15:30 - 16:45
For more information, you can call +605-8908110 or visit auorangutan.com
Keep in mind that if it rains or the water level of the lake is low the boats to the island do not depart. The best way to get there is to rent a taxi with Grab to take you to Bukit Merah Laketown Resort, it is from the dock of this resort that the boat leaves and in about 10 minutes take you to the orangutan reserve. The ticket fee also includes a guide who will explain everything about the purpose of the sanctuary and about these big primates. It is a great experience to be able to see these magnificent mammals in person, and in what is closest to their natural habitat, the only thing that separates you and them is a fenced tunnel that you walk through. The goal of the sanctuary is to protect and reintroduce this species into their natural habitat, the jungle, in Borneo. In the meantime, they are free to roam around the sanctuary and above all taken care of by a great staff. The tour is brief but absolutely worth it, it is a unique experience and a great way to know and learn more about these big and docile animals.
KUALA KURAU:
You may probably have never heard of Kuala Kurau, and neither did I if it weren’t for a fantastic coincidence, the taxi driver who took me to Bukit Merah to visit the orangutans, is originally from this small fishing village, a few kilometers away, and asked us if we would have liked to visit his hometown. How could I say no to such an opportunity, I am so happy I didn't. If like me, you are always looking for less-beaten paths and places where you can fully experience the reality of a place far from mass tourism, Kuala Kurau is absolutely worth a visit.
Kuala Kurau is a fishing village dating back about 100 years, where you can breathe a quieter and slower vibe; of course, having a local as a personal guide had its advantages and I had the privilege of observing the life of its inhabitants from a privileged place. I also happened to visit it on the occasion of some kind of celebration and ended up being able to assist to a theatrical performance that was taking place with dancing, singing and few women were getting ready to hold a large banquet with the villagers and a lot of food was being prepared. It was truly a suggestive and beautiful experience. It reminded me how important it is to be open to what the universe presents to us, not to mention that here I had the best fried rice of my life.
WHERE TO STAY:
George Town offers several options for different budgets, I personally opted for a recently built boutique hotel located 10 minutes away by foot from Gurney Drive, I'll leave the link here if you are interested.
TIPS:
Pack Light: Georgetown’s tropical climate means light, breathable clothing is ideal. A small backpack should suffice.
Blend in like a local: Protect yourself from the strong sun with a UV umbrella
Digital Convenience: Use apps like Grab for transport, Google Maps for navigation
CONCLUSION:
George Town, Penang, is a treasure trove of cultural riches, culinary delights, and historical wonders. Whether you're wandering through its mural-adorned streets, savoring local street food, or immersing yourself in its diverse heritage, George Town promises an unforgettable experience. As a travel photographer and YouTuber, you’ll find endless inspiration and content opportunities here. So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to explore this Malaysian gem.