| Page Views: 3,103 Last Visit to Penang: August, 2005 | Penang-of Food, Temples & a touch of Colonialism by Wild_Orchid - last update: Sep 9, 2005 |
Penang-the Pearl of the Orient
The Pearl of the Orient continues to charm foreign tourists and locals alike. With coconut-fringed sandy beaches, delicious hawker fare, old colonial houses and buildings (many which have been restored to their full glory), and all major ethnic cultures represented here on one tiny island, Penang's appeal is timeless and universal. It is indeed the pearl of the orient. |
In Penang, you will find numerous places of worship. From Islamic mosques, Buddhist temples, Hindu temples, churches and Sikh temples - they can all found here and sometimes right next to one another.
The Kek Lok Si Temple with its seven storey white pagoda that can be seen for miles is a beacon to the faithful and also draws tourists from near and far. I would rate this as a must see when in Penang. The other famous & unique temple is the Penang Snake Temple, where real and very much alive snakes may be found coiled sleepily around lighted joss-sticks. |
Along Gurney Drive Walking along the famous Gurney Drive is a popular past-time for tourists and locals alike. In the early mornings and late afternoons, it is pleasant to take a stroll here, with the sea breeze blowing lightly watching the tide come in. From the picture, you can see the hotels and condominiums on the right with the sea on the left. In the evenings, when the hawkers start to set up their stalls, Gurney Drive turns into a cacophony of light, sounds and smells.
So, how's the hawker fare at this famous outdoor food centre, you might ask? "A bit pricey", will come the reply, if you ask the Penang locals, but I reckon it is still a nice place to visit for a taste of Penang. |
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| Pros: | "Ah, the delicious hawker food-smells great and tastes even better!" | | Cons: | "some buildings and car parks are a bit run-down and in need of maintenance" | | In A Nutshell: | "The Pearl of the Orient continues to be a Delight!" |
Wild_Orchid's Penang Travel Tips
| Overview | Things to Do
Tips: 5 - Photos: 5 | | | | Restaurants | Hotels & Accommodations
Tips: 2 - Photos: 4 | | | | Nightlife | Off The Beaten Path | | | | Tourist Traps | Warnings Or Dangers | | | | Transportation | Local Customs
Tips: 1 - Photos: 1 | | | | Packing Lists | Shopping | | | | Sports Travel | General Tips |
 Comments for Wild_Orchid about Penang | | | | |
KiKitC Sat Sep 19, 2009 11:45 UTC
Sounds like a wonderful place to learn about the food, culture and religions of Penang. Thank you for the tour. | starship Fri Apr 17, 2009 03:30 UTC
Sounds like a nice place for a relaxing vacation! | kenHuocj Sun Sep 14, 2008 10:23 UTC
was Penang not the major port of Malaysia in the early C20 ? ;-))) | jenaikes Wed Dec 19, 2007 21:50 UTC
Hullo! Was looking 4 reviews 2 Paradise Sandy Beach when i surfed onto your page. Will be heading 2 Penang next week. Was hoping to meet u over Theresa's wedding :) Jen |
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