RARA VISIT PENANG 2016

Penang is a Malaysian state located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia, by the Straits of Malacca. It comprises two parts. Penang Island, where the capital city, George Town, is located and Seberang Perai on the malay peninsula. Penang is an island of rich Chinese heritage, Penang has an array of temples, museums, preserved forests, and beautiful beaches that make a trip here more than worthwhile. Top it off with the fact that this island is said to be the country's unofficial food capital, and its no wonder that tourism plays a huge role in its economy.

Penang's view *day*

Penang's view *night*

1. Penang Hill and funicular ride

This was a must do attraction in Penang! Penang Hill is known as "Bukit Bendera by the locals. It is one of the only cool places to visit in Penang, standing at 833 metres high, Penang Hill is the oldest British hill station in Southeast Asia that dates back to the 1700s. You basically catch a funicular train ride up to the top of Penang Hill where there are views, some things to do and plenty of places to eat. Funicular train leaves every 20 to 25 minutes at a cost of RM10 per person for adults. It can carry a max of 80 passengers per trip. You can buy your ticket at the ticket counter. The train ride is fun and even a bit thrilling on the way down. You definitely need to sit at the bottom of the train to get full effect. At the top, there are 2 food courts, 1 with food, the other with juice and icy treats such as awesome ais kacangs. Visitors can also take a nature tour, pop by the owl museum and discover other cultural and historical attractions here.

Penang Hill Ice Kacang

view from 833 metres high

2. Batu Ferringhi

Batu Ferringhi is a one of the Penang's most popular destinations. Its consists of a long stretch of soft, white sandy beach along a winding road named Jalan Batu Ferringhi. A hotspot that is perfect for couples and families seeking for relaxing vacation by the beach. It is clean, nice and calm. The only problem here is the risk of jellyfish stings. It is also home to many resorts, the resorts along the beach offer various water sport activities, such as jet-skiing, parasailing and windsurfing. Batu Ferringhi also is famous for its night market that offers a wide variety of merchandise and street food. There are many delicious dining options and there is plenty to explore in this area including the butterfly farm, tropical spice garden and toy museum.

3. Penang Street Art

Penang is wildly famous for its unique street art by both local and foreign artists. Visitors often explore the streets of George Town in attempt to find the locations of all the famous work of art.

4. Penang is the best places to eat

Penang is known as the food capital of Asia and the food is absolutely superb. There are so many great places to eat, with each race offering their own traditional food. Although every culture has their signature dishes, they are also influenced by other cooking styles and have managed to come up with their own special creations that represent a beautiful blend of tasted and spices. There are many other options, and you will never have to worry about where to eat in Penang. You will never have a problem finding something to fill your belly. The food is not just delicious, but very good value.

a) Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar is a favourite northern Malaysian dish of mildly-flavoured steamed rice accompanied by a variety of curry dishes meticulously prepared with fish, chicken, squid, prawns and beef. Malaysian will tell you that the best nasi kandar can be enjoyed in Penang. It is a hearty meal for those who love aromatic spices!

b) Half Boiled Egg with Toasted Kaya Bread

The big reason that the toast is so good here is the fact that most of the restaurant uses a charcoal stove to make each set of toast, which adds home grown, crispy taste to each bite.