PENANG HOTELS

ABOUT PENANG

The Penang island is located on the north west side of the Malaysian Peninsular near to the southern Thai border. Penang’s history goes back to 1786 when Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company negotiated with the Sultan for the rights to Penang in exchange for military protection against Siamese and Burmese threats. This was the beginning of British colonial influence in the region. 

The British then established city of Georgetown in Penang as a trading port and this attracted traders and immigrants from many nearby Asian regions. Georgetown briefly served as the capital of the Straits Settlements (including present day Singapore and Melacca) from 1826 to 1832.

PENANG ATTRACTIONS

• Georgetown UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich history and diverse culture. Visitors are captivated by its vibrant street art, colonial architecture, and delicious local cuisine.
• The city’s streets are adorned with murals that reflect the local cultural heritage.
• The historic building like Fort Cornwallis and the Blue Mansion offer glimpses into the past.
• Georgetown is also famous for it’s hawker stalls serving delectable dishes such as Char Kway Teow and Nasi Kandar. The blend of old and new in Georgetown makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT PENANG

Penang enjoys warm tropical weather year round except for rainy days towards end of the year. The rainy monsoon season hits Penang in August, September, October and November. These 4 months bring occasional short heavy rain showers typical of the tropical monsoon weather. The daily average temperature year round is between 24C to 32C.

Cultural events reflecting Penang’s multicultural ethnicity are like Thaipusam, Hungry Ghost Festival, Nine Emperor Gods Festival, Ramadan, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chingay Parade and Chinese New Year. These cultural events have retained an authenticity that is unmatched in Asia. Other localized events in Penang are like the George Town Festival, the George Town Literary Festival, the Catholic St Anne’s Feast Day, Penang International Food Festival, Penang Anime Matsuri, Japanese Bon Odori Festival, George Town Heritage Celebration, Penang Bridge International Marathon and the Dragon Boat Festival.

PENANG DOS AND DON’TS

Dos –

• Dress Modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites like mosques or temples
• Remove Shoes: Take off your shoes before entering homes and certain religious places. 
• Use Your Right Hand: Use your right hand (or both hands) when giving or receiving items, and when eating with your hands. 
• Be Polite and Respectful: Speak softly and calmly, and be mindful of social hierarchies
• Show Appreciation for Food: Accept offered drinks and food, and compliment the hospitality
• Learn Basic Malay Phrases: Even a few words can be appreciated by locals

Don’ts –

• Public Displays of Affection: Avoid excessive kissing, hugging, or touching in public, especially in conservative areas
• Pointing with Index Finger: Point with your thumb instead, or use your whole hand
• Touching Heads: Avoid touching anyone’s head, especially children’s, as it’s considered disrespectfu
• Raising Your Voice: Speak calmly and avoid shouting, as it can be seen as aggressive
• Disrespecting Elders: Show deference to elders and those in positions of authority
• Publicly Criticizing the Royal Family: Avoid criticizing the royal family, according to Malaysia Visa
• Ignoring Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and etiquette, especially in homes and religious places.