Richard Ryan is a professional journalist who has worked in the UK, Malaysia and Australia. For more information visit http://www.richardryan.co.uk
A good way to start off your day in Penang is to have a leisurely morning stroll at the Penang Botanic Gardens, located in Jalan Kebun Bunga. Look out for the Orchidarium, which houses about 200 species of wild orchids and a Cactus House which has 60 varieties of cacti.
10am
Rather than hopping in a taxi to go sightseeing, try the three-wheeled trishaw which still operates in certain parts of George Town. The first place to ask for should be Little India encompassing Market Street, Queen Street and King Street. This is a great place to shop for saris, accessories and souvenirs. Grab a hot roti canai for breakfast then make your way to the Penang Museum and Art Gallery on Lebuh Farquhar, showcasing old photographs, maps, charts, historical relics and paintings of early Penang.
1pm
Known as a food haven, you will never go hungry in Penang! After all that walking and touring, it’s time to refuel - try the famous assam laksa (a sour noodle soup where the broth is rich with mackerel, lemongrass, shallots and turmeric). The best is to be found near the Air Itam market. The food trail doesn’t stop here; make your way back down town to try the famous Penang Road Chendol in Lebuh Keng Kwee, off Penang Road. A sunny day on the island wouldn’t be complete without a bowl of this splendid Malaysian dessert.
2.30pm
The popular tourist belt along the Batu Ferringhi beach strip is not only the place to soak in some sun but it is also where Penang’s newest attraction is located – the Tropical Spice Garden (www.tourismpenang.gov.my) in Teluk Bahang. Spread over 3.2 hectares, this magnificent secret garden houses more than 500 varieties of flora from Malaysia and other regions.
5pm
If you want to take a break from all the walking, take this time to relax at the beach but if you’re still really pumped, you can partake in any of the water sport activities available from jet skiing and banana boat rides to paragliding, horseback riding and kayaking.
Nightlife
Popular clubs such Slippery Senoritas and Soho Free House located in Upper Penang Road and The Garage are where you want to be! These places dish out the best in contemporary dance music and live bands. If you just want to hang out and chat over drinks, there are many upmarket pubs and bistros nearby. For those with an insatiable appetite, roadside mamak stalls are open until the early hours of the morning!
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