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Situated northwest of the Peninsular Malaysia, Penang offers visitors plenty of holiday highlights, including gorgeous sandy beaches, colourful night markets, world heritage sites, impressive street art, and a diverse nightlife. Penang also happens to be considered as the food capital of Malaysia, with some of the country’s most most-watering street snacks. Brightsun Travel offers cheap holidays to Penang, allowing you to experience all of this and more.
Penang is a haven for nature lovers and adventurous holidaymakers with picture-perfect landscapes consisting of tropical forests, jungles, parks, gardens, spice plantations, and verdant hillsides. There's also a charming cultural side to Penang which is best experienced at the state’s capital George Town, an official UNESCO World Heritage Site with traditional mansions, houses, churches, and temples, many of which have been restored into museums and hotels.
Penang has a well-connected transportation network. Public buses run throughout the island and are an affordable way to get around. The Penang Ferry connects the island with the mainland, while Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are readily available. Renting a car or motorbike is another option, especially for exploring more remote areas, but be mindful of local traffic rules and parking regulations.
To travel to Malaysia, British citizens need a valid passport. A visa is not required. For up-to-date travel advice and health recommendations visit the government’s travel advice for Malaysia.
Penang is generally a safe destination for tourists, but basic precautions should still be observed. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded areas. It’s wise to use hotel safes for important items. While petty crime is rare, always stay alert, especially in busy markets and tourist hotspots. Emergency services can be reached by dialling 999.
Penang is known for its multicultural population, with influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Thai cultures. Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites. The predominant language is Malay, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service.
When visiting religious or cultural sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering temples and mosques. Public displays of affection are generally accepted but should be respectful. While bargaining is common in markets, do so politely and with a friendly attitude.
Penang's top beach destination is Batu Ferringhi, known for its golden sands and water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Tanjung Bungah offers a more relaxed atmosphere with beautiful views and fewer crowds.
Explore George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its colonial architecture and street art. Key sights include the Khoo Kongsi Clan House, Penang Peranakan Mansion, and the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion). Kek Lok Si Temple is one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temples.
Take a funicular ride to the top of Penang Hill for panoramic island views. Penang National Park provides hiking trails, canopy walks, and beaches like Monkey Beach. The Clan Jetties offer a unique glimpse into traditional stilt house communities.
Penang’s street food is globally renowned. Don’t miss Char Kway Teow (stir-fried noodles), Asam Laksa (spicy fish soup), and Hokkien Mee (prawn noodles).
Explore Chowrasta Market and Little India for local shopping. Souvenirs such as Penang Street Art and Batik Painting are popular. For a more extensive shopping experience, visit Gurney Plaza or Queensbay Mall.
The George Town Festival features arts and performances, while Thaipusam at Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple showcases vibrant Hindu processions. The Penang Dragon Boat Festival is a major event attracting international teams.
Upper Penang Road is known for its energetic bars and clubs, while Hin Bus Depot hosts live music and art events. Chulia Street provides a range of relaxed pubs and bars.
Families will enjoy the Penang Butterfly Farm, which houses thousands of butterflies, and ESCAPE Adventureplay Theme Park for outdoor fun. The Penang Interactive Museum and Penang 3D Trick Art Museum offer interactive and educational experiences.
Visit the Peranakan Museum and Penang War Museum for unique cultural insights. A Trishaw Ride through George Town is a charming way to explore the historic city, offering a relaxed and enjoyable tour experience.
Penang’s location allows easy access to nearby spots like Pulau Jerejak for a peaceful retreat and Langkawi for more beachside relaxation. Ipoh, a nearby town, is known for its colonial architecture and excellent food.
Penang enjoys a consistently warm climate, with average temperatures ranging from 28°C to 32°C throughout the year. Nights are typically cooler but still warm, with temperatures rarely dipping below 23°C.
Penang’s weather is largely influenced by two monsoon seasons. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September, bringing heavy rain and occasional thunderstorms. The northeast monsoon runs from November to March, with slightly less intense rainfall. Rain showers are usually short, so they rarely disrupt outdoor plans for long.
The hottest months in Penang are generally from March to May, when temperatures can soar and the humidity is at its highest. The cooler months, though still warm, are typically from December to February, offering slightly lower temperatures and more comfortable weather for exploring.
The most pleasant time to visit Penang is from December to February, during the cooler, drier period. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds. For those looking to avoid the busiest times, consider visiting in April or November, when the weather is still favourable, and the tourist numbers are lower.
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