"Penang's Grand Dame" Top 5 Page for this destination Eastern And Oriental Hotel Tip by bpacker

If you're looking for a charming colonial hotel in Penang and don't mind paying a little more, this place has to be it. Unlike the touristy and characterless hotels that you find in Batu Ferringhi, the E and O has both history and charm. Everthing here brings back mind the past grandeur of the ol' times, the beautifully craved ceiling in the reception, the wood and gold pannelled bar lounge, the Engish tiled floor and the swimming pool area that overlooks the sea. Since it was built in 1885 by the Sarkies brothers, who also ran the legendary Raffles Hotel in Singapore, there are obvious similiarities in architecture and style.

Unique Qualities: The pool next to the seawall is like a secret sanctuary in Georgetown, especially in the nightime when the lights have dimmed to a soft whisper and the sea is black. I can imagine Great-Gatsby typed parties held here, lots of liquour, gentlemen in their black coats and bow ties and ladies in the feathers and long,loose dresses. I'm quite sure the Sarkies' brothers indulged in such parties over here...

Other nice qualities about this place:
1) Situated in the heart of the City, near the clubbing area;
2) Really nice toilets;
3) Good service, the staff are always impeccably decked in bow ties and pressed suits.

Address: 10 Lebuh Farquhar, , Penang 10200
Comparison: more expensive than average
Price: US$40-80
Theme: Hotel
Website: http://www.e-o-hotel.com