JalanMakanMain: Pearl of the Orient (Pulau Penang)

Penang has been named as Malaysia’s most liveable city for the second year in a row by global consulting firm ECA International, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said.

A fascinating fusion of the East and West, Penang embraces modernity while retaining its traditions and old world charm. These are reflected in its harmonious multiracial populace and well-preserved heritage buildings which led to George Town being accorded a listing as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site recently.Long regarded as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang also entices visitors with its beautiful coasts and scrumptious cuisines.

Penang is also known as "The Pearl of the Orient" and is famous for its traditions and customs that have been passed down through many many generations. From traditional villas to the simple yet elegant shop-houses of the yesteryears, the state is rich with its architectural heritage.

Penang Bridge

The most prominent landmark in Penang is the Penang Bridge. It is the fourth longest bridge in the world, stretching over 13.5km. This impressive structure which stands magnificently across the glittering, blue sea links the Penang Island with the peninsular.

When you look at it from a distance, you can't help but feel a sense of awe for this magnificent structure. The beauty and splendor of this bridge is simply Amazing. I have only 2 words to describe this bridge...Truly Fascinating!

Kek Lok Si Temple

Penang is home to some of Malaysia's most beautiful temples. Among them are the Kek Lok Si Temple, the Reclining Buddha (Wat Chaiyamangkalaran Temple, the Dharmikarama Burmese Temple and the Tua Pek Kong Temple.

Of all the temples mentioned, the one that I personally like most is the Kek Lok Si Temple. This temple is Malaysia's largest Chinese Buddhist Temple. It is also one of the largest and the grandest Buddhist Temple in South East Asia. The thing that truly captivated me was the 7-storey, 30 meter tall pagoda found here. Inside the pagoda are 10,000 Buddha images and because of that, this temple is also known as the "Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas".

The climb up to the top of the pagoda can be quite tiring, but it 's definitely worth it as you would be able to capture the splendid panoramic view of Penang.

Fort Cornwallis

Another tourist attraction in Penang worth seeing is the Fort Cornwallis. This was the place where Francis Light first set foot on when he arrived at Penang Island in the year 1786. An interesting artifact of the fort is an old Dutch cannon, called the Seri Rambai.

Made in 1603, locals believe it possesses magical powers. It is said that by placing flowers in the barrel of the cannon and by offering special prayers, infertile women would be able conceive. How true this is, I do not know. But it's definitely worth giving it a try if you're trying to conceive!

Snake Temple

Also known as the Temple of Azure Cloud, was built in 1850 and is dedicated to a Buddhist priest by the name of Choo Sor Kong.The temple is famous as it was once a refuge for the venomous pit vipers that lived in the surrounding hills.These day however, with the surrounding area of the temple all built up, you will be lucky to see any snakes in the temple.

To replace the missing snakes, they now have a snake farm you can visit, with over 50 different species on display and of course a chance to have your photo taken with them (for a price).

Opening Times : Temple - Open daily from 06.00 - 19.00
Snake Farm - Open daily from 09.30 - 18.00

Admission costs : Free for the temple
Snake farm : RM5 Adults - RM3 Children

Penang Hill

Penang Hill was the first colonial hill station developed in Peninsular Malaysia. Comprising Western Hill, Bukit Laksamana, Tiger Hill, Flagstaff Hill and Government Hill, it is located six km away from Georgetown. The hilly and forested area is the state's primary hill resort.

Set 821m above Penang’s capital, islanders call it Bukit Bendera and it is generally about five degrees cooler than Georgetown. It is the last patch of tropical rainforest in Penang so the flora and fauna here have been protected since 1960. It does not have the same prominence as Genting Highlands, Fraser’s Hill or Cameron Highlands but it is one of Penang’s best-known tourist attractions due to its fresher climate.

Recommendation of Food

Since Penang is synonymous with good food (eating also seems to be Penangites’ favourite pastime), there are many places where one can find a good concentration of hawker stalls and restaurants on the island, especially in Georgetown. The island is famous for their Nyonya-inspired flavours. Malacca may be more famous for their Nyonya culture, but in terms of cooking, it is the Penang Nyonya flavours that capture the hearts (and stomachs) of many.