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"Overall, the cost of traveling to Penang is quite affordable, the food here is close to Vietnamese tastes, and getting to attractions is convenient. Therefore, many people choose to go to Penang to explore its many cultural destinations," Travel Blogger IAMKOO Hoang Anh shared with Travellive.
Follow IAMKOO Hoang Anh as she explores 6 fascinating destinations in Penang.
Travel blogger IAMKOO Hoang Anh in George Town, Penang.
1. George Town Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
George Town Old Town is the historic center of George Town, the capital of Penang state, Malaysia. This area was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
George Town boasts many architectural structures that reflect a blend of Asian and European styles.
George Town is a melting pot of diverse cultures, including Chinese, Indian, Malay, and European. Due to the intermingling of different ethnicities and religions that have settled on the shores of this area, George Town has acquired a large number of buildings exhibiting an eclectic blend of colonial and Asian architectural styles.
The old houses in George Town each have their own unique characteristics.
"This is a fairly large neighborhood, and the attractions are quite far apart, so the best way to get around them is by bike or Grab," noted travel blogger IAMKOO Hoang Anh.
2. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, an old villa built in the 19th century.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, also known as The Blue Mansion, is an architectural icon in George Town, Penang, Malaysia. This historic house, built in the late 19th century, belonged to Cheong Fatt Tze, a prominent and wealthy Chinese-Malaysian businessman.
The exterior of Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion).
This house is famous for its blue color and is designed in a blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles, combining traditional Chinese elements with European knowledge and artistry. It is an excellent example of diverse American architecture in Malaysia and a popular tourist attraction in the region.
Every corner of the house can become a beautiful backdrop for photos.
IAMKOO Hoang Anh shared: "Currently, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion has been transformed into a hotel and restaurant, where visitors can experience living in a beautiful old house and learn about the history and culture of the area. It is also known as a tourist destination with organized tours to introduce the Cheong Fatt Tze family and the story behind this house."
Admission fee: Adults (17 RM), children aged 6 to 12 (12 RM), free for children under 6. The ticket price includes a 45-minute guided tour.
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
3. Khoo Kongsi Assembly Hall, the largest assembly hall in Penang.
This assembly hall was built in 1808 by the Khoo family, a wealthy and powerful clan in Penang. It serves as a place of ancestral worship for the Khoo family and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Penang.
This assembly hall is where the Khoo family worships their ancestors.
Khoo Kongsi is located in the heart of George Town, near the old town. The assembly hall is built in the traditional Chinese architectural style, with red tiled roofs, wooden pillars, and intricately carved statues. "Khoo Kongsi is a great place to learn about the culture and history of the Chinese in Penang," he shared.
4. Armenian Street, a small street lined with antique and souvenir shops.
Armenian Street was founded in the 19th century by Armenians, a minority community in Penang. The street was once the center of the Armenian community in Penang, and was home to many Armenian churches, schools, and businesses.
Armenian Street used to be a center with many Armenian churches, schools, and businesses.
Today, Armenian Street is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood, a hub of cultural, artistic, and commercial activity. The street is lined with shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, street food, and artwork.
This is a place that sells a lot of antiques and souvenirs.
"This street is located in the heart of George Town, near the old town. To explore Armenian Street, you can walk, bike, or hire a tuk-tuk," suggests IAMKOO Hoang Anh.
5. Penang Hill, a hill with stunning city views.
Penang Hill, also known as Bukit Bendera, is a popular tourist destination in Pulau Pinang (Penang), Malaysia. It's renowned not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for the many sightseeing, entertainment, and recreational activities available to visitors.
Penang Hill offers many fun activities.
"The most memorable experience was taking the tram from the town center up to Penang Hill. Although the journey was short, the views on both sides were stunning. Alternatively, taking the cable car to Kek Lok Si Temple and Sri Mahamariamman Temple were also interesting options," Hoang Anh said.
He added that when you get to Penang Hill, you can experience a number of activities such as riding the cable car, going on a Ferris wheel, archery, exploring the butterfly garden... Or simply find a beautiful cafe, sit and enjoy a cup of coffee while gazing at the city of Penang in the distance below the hill.
6. Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia.
Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Located atop Penang Hill, it is a popular tourist attraction in Penang. The temple houses numerous buildings and large Buddha statues, including the Great Kannon Bodhisattva, the Great Goddess of Mercy, and the Three Buddhas.
Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia.
Kek Lok Si Temple was built in 1890 by a Chinese monk and has gradually expanded over time. The temple complex covers approximately 40 hectares and is a melting pot of various Buddhist cultures, including Chinese, Thai, and Burmese.
"The temple grounds are quite large; it takes about 2-3 hours to get from one area to another. There are buses to get here, but they are very inconvenient, so it's best to book a Grab," IAMKOO Hoang Anh noted.
