travelsalad: When in Penang

Penang, a peninsula in the northwestern coast, is another place to travel in Malaysia. Its name came from the modern Malay name Pulau Pinang which means "island of the area nut palm". This is a well-diverse city with a harmonious multi-racial population. In addition, it is now known for its public street artworks and installation displays.

The capital city, among its five districts, is the George Town. This was named in honor of King George III. It shows the fusion of the Eastern and Western culture which is also reflected their architecture. It embraces the modern era and at the same time it preserves the traditions and old warm charm of the historical site.

View of Penang Island from the ferry ride

There are several ways to explore the lovely island of Penang. These are some of the things you must do when you visit Penang:

1. See the murals and street artworks!

Ernest Zacharevic

He is a Lithuanian artist who lived and breathed Georgetown. He made these artworks for the Georgetown Festival of the Arts and Culture back in 2012.

Check his other murals and street artworks all over the world here.

Little Girl in Blue (Muri Street)

Little Children On A Bicycle (Armenian Street)

Click here and here for videos of Ernest Zacharevic working on a mural.

Boy On A Bike (Ah Quee Street)

Reaching Up (Cannon Street)

Rainbow Umbrellas which is located near the "Reaching Up" artwork.

The Awaiting Trishaw Paddler (Penang Road)

A real-life Trishaw Paddler in Georgetown

Street artworks became a popular trend in Georgetown and became the tourist attraction in the area. A lot of artists are now showcasing their works around the district. These are some of the street artworks to look out for:

One of the cat artworks in Georgetown

Reminders

bring cap/umbrella

wear sunblock

wear comfortable shoes

bring water

2. Go to Penang Hill

Penang Hill is the highest point in whole district of Penang island with 821 AMSL where you can have an overlooking view of the city.

The type of railway used in Penang Hill is a funicular railway, which is an inclined plane or cliff railway. This was first opened in 1923 during the British colonization era and was overhauled in 2010. Best time to go to Penang Hill is during night time to see the magnificent view of the island. And as you ride the train, go to the front part to have the best view and experience :)

Video going up to Penang Hill

Video going down from Penang Hill (better view)

3. Visit St. George's Anglican Church

First Anglican church in Southeast Asia region

4. Rent a bike

This is the best way to go around Georgetown, for artworks and installations are in different locations.

Visit Love Bike facebook page here.

5. See the well-preserved heritage buildings which include the Peranakan shop houses and buildings during the British era.

Clock Tower landmark

6. Ride the ferry going to Penang Island.

We rode the ferry (20-minute ride) from Butterworth Terminal (mainland Malaysia) going to Georgetown (Penang Island). You only need to pay once. No charge for the return journey.

6. Visit the Clan Jetties or the water villages.

This is part of the Penang Heritage Trail which is open to public. The location of the jetty settlements is just near the Penang Ferry Terminal. There are six remaining clan jetties in the island. The Chew Jetty is the most famous one and it is more open to public.

6. Interact and get-to-know the locals.

A better way to know a place by heart is to talk to the locals and know their stories. Don't hesitate to talk to them and be friendly. Just be cautious to whom you are going to talk to :)

Uncle and auntie were very good to us. They treated us like their family even for a short time.

7. Live in a hostel

It is economical to book for a cheap hostel in backpacking trip. On the other hand, choose carefully the hostels you will book. Read the reviews and comments of previous travelers and backpackers who went there already.