Tiny but a precious gem : Penang

As Malaysia's second smallest state, Penang is surely tiny. But this little gem of a city, which is also the nation's only island state, is big in attractions. Whether you're following a food trail, planning to indulge yourself into beach activities or satisfying your cultural cravings, a trip to Penang guarantees adventure and fun!

Food & Shopping
Among foodies, Penang is a food paradise known for its Laksa (soup-based Assam noodles), Char Kway Teow (fried rice noodles), Nutmegs, Tau Sar Peah (bean paste biscuits) and Pasembur (a different variation of the Rojak), alongside a variety of other mouth-watering foods.

While you can find a food stall, hawker centre or restaurant every which way you turn, the most popular food hunt in Penang is Gurney Drive, located at the sea front boasts some of Penang's best street food. At the end of your meal there, you can take a stroll down the beautiful promenade and onwards to Batu Ferringhi, a popular beach resort area and undoubtedly the best accommodation for beach lovers. This magnificent area comes alive in the evening with a bazaar you should not miss.

More shopping can be found at the plethora of flea markets, Pasar Malams (night markets/bazaar) and shopping centres throughout the island. A few places worth checking out are the markets and shops along Lorong Kulit, Campbell Street and Little India, where you'll also find jewellery, antique and handicraft shops.

Culture
But beyond food, shopping, the sun, sand and sea, Penang is also a treasure trove exploding with history and culture. Strolling through the World-Heritage-listed George Town is an experience itself. Take a walk back to Penang's colonial era at the amazing heritage buildings and clan houses lining the street, one of which is the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion, better known as the "Blue Mansion", with its elaborate pillars and stunning inner courtyard.

If you happen to be in Penang during the Chinese New Year, don't miss the Chap Goh Meh celebration at the Esplanade. Celebrated on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year, Chap Goh Meh is also known as Chinese Valentine's Day. Since the 19th century, eligible young Nyonyas (females of Straits-Chinese parentage) would gather during Chap Goh Meh to "throw" Mandarin oranges into the sea in the hopes of finding a good suitor, a tradition that is still practiced today.

Nearby is the 18th-century star-shaped Fort Cornwallis, the largest well-preserved fort in Malaysia. Among several cannons surrounding the fort, one Sri Rambai, is believed to be magical - placing flowers on its barrel is supposedly improves a woman's fertility.

Other places of interest in Penang include the grand Kek Lok Si Temple, which houses the Pagoda of Rama IV, and the "vipers-protected" Snake Temple. The vipers are believed to be harmless, so the temple is "safe" to visit.

If time permits you, check out the Butterfly Farm, the Batik Factory, the Weld Quay Clan Jetties Waterfront Settlement and the Tropical Spice Garden. However, if you are feeling adventurous? Attempt the Canopy Walk at Penang Hill, a suspension bridge hanging 200 feet (about 61 metres) above the ground for a panoramic view of the island below and the mainland across.

This article was contributed by Travel Club.

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