Shophouses, beaches and good food – these are what the Pearl of the Orient, Penang is known for. Three slow days in Penang and a day trip to Langkawi is a perfect getaway from Singapore.
Day 1
We decided to head to the city to get some food before transferring bus to Batu Ferringhi where the beach is located. Guess we couldn’t be luckier -nearby the bus stop was a restaurant serving typical Malay style dishes where all food are ready cooked and you dish whichever food you want, including rice. Less than 10 RM.
After lunch, opposite the road was a stall selling coconuts. Under the hot weather, we took the bait – it was refreshing! Once you finish drinking the water, the owner will chop the coconut into two so that you could scoop out the flesh. After the drink, we continued our journey to Batu Ferringhi.
I think everything falls right into place. The timing on the way to Batu Ferringhi was perfect. It was about 3 pm and the sun shines right on the surface of the sea. I loved seeing the bright reflection of the sea water.
We stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel and wanted to head to Penang National Park which was nearby. After a short bus ride and a walk, we couldn’t find the way there. Eventually, we returned to our hotel and head to the beach right outside.
We had so much fun snapping photos and soaking our feet in the clear water while waiting for the sunset scene.
We didn’t want to ride it, still the owner kindly allows us to take photos and pet this gentle pony.
This wasn’t planned out to be a beach vacation but sunset by the sea was simply too beautiful. The day at Batu Ferringhi didn’t end here. We rested and went for dinner at a nearby night market with transport provided by the hotel. A lovely day spent.
Day 2
A day trip to Langkawi because I really wanted to visit the suspension bridge! However, I am very disappointed by how the tourism board take advantage of tourists. We had to keep on paying along the way and there are timeslots to get on the bridge since there’s a safety limit.
To get our lunch fix, we went to this hawker centre and ordered Nasi Goreng (Malay Fried Rice). It was too oily and the egg was fried for too long, we couldn’t even bite. We are returning to Penang to comfort our tummies.
I am sure there are better things to do in Langkawi apart from the suspension bridge (like eagles watching!) but we had no time for other activities since this was planned as a day trip.
Day 3
We are staying in Georgetown for 2 days to explore the UNESCO heritage sites and delicious foods. Upon waking up, we took a stroll along the street of our boutique hotel in search of traditional breakfast.
Luckily, we chanced upon a local cafe that is situated at the back lane of the shophouses. Packs of Nasi Lemak (Rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf) are placed on the table while the rest you’ll have to order verbally. We recommend soft-boiled eggs, kaya toast and iced coffee/tea (well, you never go wrong with the traditional set). This kaya toast is toasted using charcoal (watch here). It is so crispy outside, soft and sweet inside!
Toh Soon Cafe
184 Lebuh Campbell, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Isn’t this the most famous mural in Penang? We had to queue to take a photo!
Ais Kepal (Ice Ball) were popular street dessert in the previous generation so it’s more rare to see it these days. Although it tasted exactly the same as Ice Kachang in Singapore, having it here is truly a different experience. I felt so happy having this especially under the scorching hot weather!
From Lebuh Armenian, a short walk will get you to Clan Jetties. Clan jetties are so peaceful and not over-touristy. There are some houses that are selling their locals drinks or souvenirs to make a living but if you walk further away to other less populous jetties, it is actually very quiet. We bought food along the way and relaxed somewhere near the water.
For dinner, we went to Gurney Drive for some famous eats – but to our disappointment, it was nothing impressive.
Day 4
Last full day in Penang we chose to sleep in because it is too comfy.
Our highly recommended boutique hotel is Kim Haus Loft
Lebuh Campbell, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
This god-like braised chicken
Sky Emperor Chicken Feet Koay Teow Soup
Lebuh Kimberly, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
We can’t miss durians in Malaysia, right? The durian vendors usually set up tables and chairs beside their truck but all seats were occupied at that time so we were offered to sit at the side of the truck and ate three durians while chatting with the uncles. I think this is my happiest moment and it’s all recorded.
For you who read till to end, thank you and I am sharing my video with you.
