Gone are the days where travelling leisurely is reserved for the wealthy. Vacations need not be extravagant and Singapore’s closeness to other Southeast Asian cities have equipped us with the privilege to frequent weekend travels. Why stay at home when you can venture out? Furthermore, Malaysian state Penang is only an 85-minute flight away from Singapore!

After spending a week in Georgetown, Penang, it dawned upon us that a getaway at this UNESCO World Heritage City is really a lot more affordable than what most people think – especially when you would be travelling without having to compromise on comfort. Starving yourselves is absolutely unnecessary and it helps that Penang’s street food is incredibly cheap.

From exploring Ernest Zacharevic’s street art, sampling Penang’s famous assam laksa to riding a trishaw, here is How You Can Travel To Penang For A 3D2N Trip With S$250 (All-Inclusive).

#1 EXLPORE ERNEST ZACHAREVIC’S STREET ART

Lithuanian-born artist Ernest Zacharevic’s street art is located all over Penang, where you can find interesting painted walls and wrought-iron caricatures. Each artwork humorously illustrates Penang’s unique colonial past and these 24 masterpieces are super popular.

$: Free

Various locations

#2 SAMPLE PENANG’S FAMOUS ASSAM LAKSA

The world-famous Assam Laksa encapsulates an interesting myriad of contrasting flavours; each mouthful of the tangy broth packs a punch of sweetness, sourness and even spiciness! Many ingredients – such as chilli, cucumber, mint leaves, onion, pineapple, prawn paste, poached mackerel, shallots and tamarind – are used to create this complex noodle dish.

$: Approximately RM$4 / S$1.30 per bowl

#3 PENANG ROAD FAMOUS TEOCHEW CHENDUL

Chendul (also spelt as chendol) is inherently a bowl of shaved ice dessert drenched in coconut milk and gula melaka. The refreshing treat is topped with kidney beans and pandan worm-shaped rice flour jellies. Eating this ice-cold dessert is a great way to combat Malaysia’s unbearable tropical heat. Chendul can be commonly found in roadside vendors across Penang.

$: RM$2.10 / S$0.70 per bowl

Jalan Penang, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-262 6002
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 7pm
Sat and Sun: 10am – 7.30pm

#4 RIDE OR HOP ON A TRISHAW

Over at Penang, you can either hop onto a trishaw or even rent an entire trishaw to ride it around the city! It may seem a little outrageous but the experience will be a memorable one that you would still remember in years to come. The price varies across each rental company so do look around for the best rate before settling for one.

$: Approximately RM$22.50 / S$7.50 per hour

#5 MACALLUM CONNOISSEURS COFFEE COMPANY

At first glance, one cannot help but to wonder if the industrial-chic Macallum Connoiseurs cafe is actually a warehouse. We soon found out that it was once a factory and has since then retained its container-like vibes. The place is so huge that it even has its own outdoor carpark! Macallum Connoiseurs is also a proud owner of an on-site coffee roastery and coffee academy.

$: Coffees from RM$6; Mains from RM$10

1, Gat Lebuh Macallum
10300 Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-261 3597
Daily: 9am – 12am

#6 CHECK OUT HIN BUS DEPOT ART CENTRE

Hin Bus Depot Art Centre was formerly a bus garage, but has since then evolved into an open-space art venue. Artist Ernest Zacharevic had his first solo exhibition here and the rest is history. Today, visitors can drop by the art exhibits or check out the periodical pop-up shops.

$: Free

31, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-226 5691

#7 CHULIA STREET WANTON MEE

When daylight wanes away, Lebuh Chulia street awakens from her afternoon nap and transforms into a bustling food street. One particular vendor – with no visible signboard – is exceptionally famous for its springy wanton noodles. It is the go-to place for locals and tourists alike, even before celebrity food critic Anthony Bourdain sang praises of this glorious dish.

$: RM$3.50 / S$1.20 per small bowl, RM$4.80 / S$1.60 per large bowl

Lebuh Chulia, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

#8 LIVE MUSIC AT CHINA HOUSE

China House is arguably one of the most famous cafes in Penang. The multi-concept venue features 14 different spaces and spans across 16,000 square feet; it is simply amazing how they can actually coexist together harmoniously. Think live band entertainment, Australian-style cafe, outdoor Chinese courtyard, a local art gallery and more! A definite must-visit in Penang.

$: Beers from RM$12 

153, Lebuh Pantai, George Town
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-263 7299
Sun to Thu: 9am – 12am
Fri and Sat: 9am – 1am

#9 HIKE UP PENANG HILL

Penang Hill -otherwise known as Bukit Bendera – stands at 2,732 feet and boasts the highest point in Penang. Situated six kilometres away from the city centre of Georgetown, the forested area comprises a number of hills and could be accessed by the funicular railway or foot.

$: Free

#10 BANGKOK LANE MEE GORENG

Bangkok Lane Mee Goreng has been unanimously coined by natives as Penang’s very best. The stall can be easily missed if you do not look hard enough. It is found inside Seng Lee Coffee Shop, where the cook whips up fragrant plates of sweet and spicy fried noodles.

$: From RM$3 per plate

Seng Lee Café, 270, Jalan Burma, Georgetown, 10050, Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang Malaysia

#11 QUEUE FOR CHAR KWAY TEOW

As its name implies, Siam Road Char Kway Teow is located along Siam Road and you can opt for takeout or dine at the nearby coffee shop. The locals love him so much that many have nicknamed him as the God of Char Kway Teow. Each aromatic plate of stir-fried noodles is served with beansprouts, Chinese sausage, chives, cockles, eggs, fried pork lard and prawns.

$: Small – RM$5 / S$1.70, Medium – RM$5.50 / S$1.85, Large – RM$6.50 / S$2.20

Siam Rd. (off Jalan Anson), 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

#12 TELUK KUMBAR

For an unforgettable dining experience, head over to Teluk Kumbar, a tiny fishing village at the south of Penang Island. The remote area is where Penangites visit for the freshest mouthwatering seafood; in fact, you can see many sampan boats floating atop the waters! The deserted village also boasts a breathtaking views of the sunset, so don’t forget your cameras.

$: From RM$20 per person

#13 NEW LANE HAWKER CENTRE

New Lane Hawker Centre is a stretch of road with vendors lined up on both sides of the street. This is the one-stop destination where you get to savour a plethora of Penang local delicacies such as char kway teow, char koay kak, nutmeg juice and whatnot at very budget prices.

$: From RM$5.50 per dish

Lorong Baru, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Mon and Tue: 4pm – 10pm
Wed: Closed
Thu to Sun: 4pm – 10pm

#14 GRAVITY ROOF TOP BAR

Perched atop G Hotel Kelawi is Gravity Roof Top Bar, a stunning bar featuring alternative vantage points of Penang. Opened throughout the day and into the night, it is a great place to chill out with friends over a drink or two.

$: From RM$26 per cocktail

2 Persiaran Maktab, 10250, Penang, Malaysia

Daily: 12pm – 11pm
+60 4-238 0000

#15 BRUNCH AT BLACK KETTLE

Black Kettle only opened its doors for less than half a year, but has already become a popular brunch destination amongst locals and expats alike. The bakery-cum-cafe offers a plethora of freshly baked goods as well as sumptuous mains. Our favourite items were hands down the Smoked Duck Pasta (RM$28 / S$9.15) and Ramen with Slow Braised Beef (RM$24 / S$7.85).

$: Coffees from RM$7 ; Mains from RM$18

105, Beach Street, Georgetown
10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-251 9270
Daily: 8.30am – 12am

TOTAL EXPENSES PER PERSON FOR 3D2N (ALL-INCLUSIVE)

4-Star Hotel Stay (2 nights): S$148 (for 2 persons)
Return Tigerair tickets: S$68** (per person)
Transportation + Return airport transfer: S$58
Food: S$50
Attractions: Mostly free
TOTAL: S$250 per person (all-inclusive)

** This fare is based on Skyscanner’s flight booking platform with no check-in baggage.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Penang is a food haven visited not just by the locals living in other parts of Malaysia but also tourists from abroad. Penang has seen a significant increase in tourists who make a special trip there just to indulge in delicious Penang street food.

But apart from eating, what else can you do there? In the past decade or so, the Malaysian government has been putting in extra effort to turn Penang into a place of interest with plenty of activities for everyone.

And if you are on a budget trip, here are 7 Free Things To Do In Penang.

Photo Credit: Make My Trip

#1 VISIT THE CHINESE TEMPLES

If you have visited Penang before, you would know that Chinese is the predominant race there. With its rich Chinese history, there are many places of worship catering to believers.

Two of the most well-known temples there are Kek Lok Si and Snake Temple where you get to see real snakes coiling on tree branches. Although you may feel sceptical about visiting such a place, rest assured that the snakes are pretty docile and appear to be half asleep most of the time.

Photo Credit: Asia Places To See

#2 HIKE UP PENANG HILL

Formerly used as a retreat during the colonial periods, Penang Hill is now a popular tourist destination. Escape from the sweltering heat of Georgetown by hiking up the hill to enjoy the cooling temperatures.

Chill your day away in a tea kiosk or have lunch at one of the restaurants up on the hill. Of course, you should also take plenty of pictures of the magnificent view overlooking the Penang Bridge.

Photo Credit: Penang

#3 WALK ALONG GURNEY DRIVE

Many will tell you that Gurney Drive is a touristy area you should avoid but we feel otherwise. Even if you are not a fan of crowds, this is a place that you have to go—especially if it is your first time in Penang.

The long stretch of road is flanked by a beach on one side and grand shopping malls on the other. You can visit the place in the early morning or night time when temperatures are cooler and there is a gentle sea breeze.

#4 EXPLORE PENANG STREET ART

Now, this is something you must not miss. Georgetown is famous for having beautiful wall paintings that reflect the culture and life of the locals and they are protected under the UNESCO Heritage Site.

And you might recall seeing many OOTDs taken against this iconic “wall of Penang”.

Photo Credit: Best Place Vacation

#5 TAKE A STROLL AT BOTANIC GARDENS

Located on Jalan Air Terjun in Georgetown, the Botanic Gardens is also referred to as the Waterfalls Gardens. This huge nature space contains plants of many species and has been around since 1884 when the British first set it up for the public to enjoy.

Photo Credit: Justgola

#6 TOUR STREET OF HARMONY

As its name suggests, Street of Harmony brings together different religions at one place. You will be able to spot places of worship and devotees from various religion groups walking around there.

Wander around and have a look at St. George’s Church, the Goddess of Mercy Temple, Sri Maha Mariamman Kovil and Masjid Kapitan Keling.

Photo Credit: The Road to Anywhere

#7 HEAD DOWN TO LITTLE INDIA

When you visit Street of Harmony, you have to make time for Little India as well which is just across the street. Expect to see scores of shops selling the most colourful saris and fragrant spices.

The place is most lively during Hindu festivals such as Deepavali and Thaipusam.

Our recent cafe-hopping adventure has brought us to Georgetown – the capital of Penang – where we witnessed an up-and-coming cafe scene in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage City.

What makes Georgetown’s cafes so unique is that majority of these Malaysian cafes are located within restored colonial shophouses and each exudes an alluring old-world charm.

Here are 10 Gorgeous Cafes in Penang with Free Wifi and Great Ambience that we highly recommend.

#1 AWESOME CANTEEN AT SEKEPING VICTORIA

As its names suggests, Awesome Canteen is located right within Sekeping Victoria Guesthouse. The vast rustic-looking space is characterised by raw concrete walls and tall trees; it was love at first sight the moment we stepped into the serene cafe!

The menu includes dishes such as handmade sandwiches, Western pastas, burgers and artisanal cakes.

164-A & 164-B, Lebuh Victoria
Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-261 3707
Mon: 11am – 10pm
Tue: Closed
Wed and Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri and Sat: 11am – 11pm
Sun: 11am – 10pm

#2 BLACK KETTLE

Black Kettle only opened its doors for less a year, but it has already become a popular brunch destination among locals and expats alike. The bakery-cum-cafe offers a plethora of freshly baked goods as well as sumptuous mains.

Our favourite items were hands down the Smoked Duck Pasta (RM28/ S$9.25) and Ramen with Slow Braised Beef (RM24/ S$7.90).

105, Beach Street, Georgetown
10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-251 9270
Daily: 8.30am – 12am

#3 BRICKLIN CAFE BAR

Bricklin Cafe Bar is situated within the compounds of Hin Bus Depot Art Centre, where you can visit the bricked-wall cafe before/after exploring the surrounding art exhibitions. Bricklin Cafe Bar takes pride in serving third-wave specialty coffees (RM$10 / S$3.30 for a latte) and a mouthwatering selection of pastries (from RM$5 / S$1.65).

P.s. Bricklin Cafe Bar is brought to you by the same people behind Kuala Lumpur’s Feeka.

31A, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-226 6813
Mon to Fri: 10am – 7pm
Sat: 10am – 10pm
Sun: 10am – 11pm

#4 BROWN POCKET CAFE

Brown Pocket Cafe differs from the other cafes listed here as it is not found in one of Penang’s heritage shophouses, but is instead perched atop of Gurney Paragon Shopping Mall. The spacious modern-looking cafe is renowned for their liege waffles and pancakes, but a wide selection of other desserts are too available. It is a perfect pitstop for exhausted shopaholics.

Gurney Paragon, Jalan Kelawai
George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-218 9668
Daily: 10am – 10pm

#5 CHINA HOUSE

China House is arguably one of the most famous cafes in Penang. The multi-concept venue features 14 different spaces and spans across 16,000 square feet; it is simply amazing how they can actually coexist together harmoniously. Think live band entertainment, Australian-style cafe, outdoor Chinese courtyard, a local art gallery and more! A definite must-visit in Penang.

153, Lebuh Pantai, George Town
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-263 7299
Sun to Thu: 9am – 12am
Fri and Sat: 9am – 1am

#6 CONSTANT GARDENER COFFEE

Tucked away at the ground level of Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce Building is Constant Gardener Coffee, an impressive specialty coffee shop. Coffee is serious business here; you can choose to have your caffeinated beverages prepared from Malaysia or overseas roasters. Have a Latte (RM $12 / S$3.95) or try the Black Coffee Filter (RM 15.50 / S$5.10).

9, Light St, Georgetown
10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-251 9070
Mon: Closed
Tue to Sun: 9am – 12am

#7 MACALLUM CONNOISEURS

At first glance, one cannot help but to wonder if the industrial-chic Macallum Connoiseurs cafe is actually a warehouse.

We soon found out that it was once a factory and has since then retained its container-like vibes. The place is so huge that it even has its own outdoor carpark! Macallum Connoiseurs is also a proud owner of an on-site coffee roastery and coffee academy.

1, Gat Lebuh Macallum
10300 Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-261 3597
Daily: 9am – 12am

#8 NARROW MARROW

Retro-looking Narrow Marrow could be easily missed if you do not look hard enough. Housed in one of Penang’s pre-war shophouses, the inconspicuous narrow cafe is definitely the most hipster cafe in this listicle.

Narrow Marrow used to import their roasted coffee beans from award-winning Australian Dimattina Coffee, but they have since switched to a blend from a local roastery, Tongue Mission.

252, Lebuh Carnarvon
George Town, 10100 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 16-553 6647
Mon: Closed
Tue to Thu: 3pm – 12am
Fri, Sat & Sun: 2pm – 1am

#9 TAVERN IN THE PARK

Tavern in the Park is too situated a stone’s throw away from Hin Bus Depot Art Centre. The beautiful cafe bears an uncanny resemblance to an english cottage house, except that it is illuminated by contemporary spherical lamps and floor-to-ceiling transparent glass doors.

125, Jalan Timah
George Town, 10150 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-218 9394
Mon: 11.30am – 10pm
Tue: Closed
Wed to Sun: 11.30am – 10pm

#10 THE ALLEY CAFE

As shown in the pictures above, The Alley Cafe certainly deserves a medal for its catchy artwork.

The cafe serves only handcrafted coffees and desserts, so make sure you have had proper meal before visiting it. Churros (small – RM$7 / S$2.30, large – RM$10 / S$3.30) are the bestselling dessert here, where you get to pair it with caramel, chocolate or nutella dips.

5, Lorong Stewart
George Town, 10200 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-261 3879
Daily: 12pm – 12am

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Located in a compound of three heritage buildings, China House is a multi-concept venue spanning across 16,000 square feet. It features 14 unique spaces, including a bakery, cafe, live music performances, local art gallery and outdoor courtyard.

China house is arguably one of the most famous places in Penang and its interesting concept is worth a special detour.

Whether you are after an Australian-style wholesome brunch or great live jazz, China House – which opens from 9am till late daily – has all your varying preferences covered.

Till date, we find it mind-blowing how these different concepts can actually coexist together harmoniously. China House in Penang has indeed challenged the notion of a typical cafe.

China House’s Beach Street Bakery section is a head-turner and is extremely popular amongst patrons. Those with a sweet tooth are spoilt for choice; the long table boasts a splendid selection of 30 mouthwatering cakes!

After heeding the recommendation of China House’s regulars, we decided to order the Tiramisu Cake (RMB15) which has been infused with kahlua. Crunchy, sweet and moist, the large portion of cake is indeed one of the best we’ve ever had.

Cakes aside, the numerous spaces at China House each offers interesting spreads of gourmet food and beverages. From bento sets, hearty Western classics, international wines to aromatic coffees, the options are aplenty and there is definitely something that will please.

Coffee beans used at China House are on a rotational basis, but the primary roasts that are used in preparing caffeinated drinks are namely El Primero Blend and Single-Origin Fazenda Ambiental Fortaleza that are imported from Singapore’s reputable Nylon Coffee Roasters.

If you ever intend to visit China House, do make it a point to walk through the entire complex – there are many great photographic opportunities and exciting discoveries awaiting you.

153, Lebuh Pantai, George Town
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-263 7299
Sun to Thu: 9am – 12am
Fri and Sat: 9am – 1am

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Located near the northwest coast of Malaysia lies Penang- a modest-looking state that boasts an exotic cultural townscape unparalleled by others. Dubbed by both locals and tourists alike as the Pearl of the Orient, Georgetown (capital of Penang) was conferred as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

For travellers who are looking for an affordable, accessible getaway, bookmark Penang for your next vacation for it is culinary haven and a town steeped in history.

Here are the 10 activities you can do when you go Penang on your next visit!

#1 STREET ART HOPPING IN GEORGETOWN

It begun in 2012 when a young Lithuanian artist by the name of Ernest Zacharevic, painted mural art works as part of the Georgetown Festival festivities. His art piece gained a wide following, and instantly transformed the streetscape of Penang. Zacharevic’s mural works depicting the everyday life of Penangites (resident of Penang) injected a new breath of life into the old run down buildings that dotted the streets in Georgetown.

His street works have now sprung all over Georgetown and the next time you visit, be sure to take some photos with his now iconic masterpieces that have become such a hit for tourists.

#2 PENANG IS A STREET FOOD HAVEN

It is not without reason that Penang is hailed as a “culinary mecca”. Boasting an extraordinaire fanfare of local delights such as Char Kway Teow, Assam Laksa, Prawn Mee, Oyster Omelette, Bak Kut Teh and Grilled seafood, the streets of Penang are so diverse and there is bound to be something that will tantalize your taste buds.

If you are someone who loves food and gets hungry at all times of the day, the street food in Penang will not disappoint. There are local eateries and coffee shops tucked away at almost every corner junction, and food critics are scrambling to call Penang the town with the best street food in Asia.

#3 EXPLORE GURNEY

No trip to Penang is complete if you do not visit Gurney Drive, a long winding road that have hawkers peddling street food at affordable prices in both directions. Here, you can find a dazzling display of street food such as Chendol, Lok-Lok and wanton noodles…

A short distance away from Gurney drive is Gurney plaza, a shopping complex if you are looking for some retail therapy after all the eating. It boasts luxury and high-end outlets as well as affordable trendy stores for the youngsters that crowd the malls during the weekend. With shopping spanning 7 storeys, there is bound to be something for everyone.

Outside Gurney plaza is a quiet alfresco stretch that is flanked by cafes such as Starbucks and Dome. If you have a little time, you can consider sitting by one of the windowsills, latte in hand and watch as the world passes you by.

#4 KEK LOK SI TEMPLE

You can also plan a trip to the nearby sacred Buddhist temple of Kek Lok Si, otherwise known as the “Temple of Supreme Bliss” to get a viewing of the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia. Royalty such as Empress Cixi was said to be so enamoured by its magnificence that she bestowed handwritten calligraphy scrolls to the temple celebrating its grandeur.

The main attraction in the temple include the Pagoda of Rama VI, which is a 7 story spectacular work inspired with elements from Thailand architecture as well as the bronze statue of Guan Yin.

Kek Lok Si Temple
11050 Georgetown
Penang, Malaysia

#5 CHEONG FATT TZE MANSION

There’s no better place than the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion to learn about some of the most prominent people who have lived and breathed Penang. This museum, which is also referred to as the Blue Mansion due to its blue exterior, has an interesting story behind.

Mr. Cheong, a rich Chinese merchant had intended this luxurious mansion as a gift for his wives. He had it built lavishly with a grand total of 38 rooms, at least 200 windows, and materials specially imported such as top grade Chinese timbre, gothic Louvered windows, as well as intricate floor titles all constructed according to the principles of Fengshui.

Admission to the blue mansion comes with a free-guided tour around the central places in the mansion, and is offered in English. If you are in the mood for a unique accommodation experience, you can also book one of their many rooms, some which has been converted into a boutique hotel.

14, Lebuh Leith
10200 Georgetown
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

#6 BATU FERRINGHI BEACH

If you do not like the hustle and bustle of towns, you can always escape to Batu Ferringhi beach, a pure slice of heaven that is catered for sun tanning beach lovers. It has sandy white beaches untainted with thrash, azure blue waters as well as palm trees that shroud the sidewalk.

Down by the beach, you can opt for a leisurely stroll and explore the many restaurants that line the area. Alternatively, if you are up for some adventure, you can rent their beach bikes and scour the entire area! There are also plenty of water activities to indulge in, such as parasailing, Jet Ski, and banana boat.

11050 Batu Ferringhi
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

#7 CHECK OUT THE NIGHT MARKETS

As night falls, proceed to the night markets – affectionately known to us as Pasar Malams – and watch as the place comes to life as it is reinvigorated by the tourists that flock here in search for a good buy. Here, you can find an assortment of goods ranging from touristy memorabilia to imitation CDs.

Jalan Pantai Batu
Taman Pantai Batu
11200 Tanjong Bungah, Malaysia

#8 ESCAPE TO ESCAPE ADVENTURE LAND

A relatively new addition to Penang’s tourism scene is ESCAPE, an eco-friendly “amusement park” that promises no roller coasters, but plenty of adrenaline pumping rides such as flying fox and a miniature version of bungee jumping.

Some of the main attractions would be 1) Monkey Business, which is a 3 tiered high-elements maze consisting of lots of climbing, scaling and jumping; 2) Tubby Racer where you carry your “float” up to the highest point before ascending down the slopes in an exhilarating mess; 3) Jungle Swinger, where you do a Tarzan like swinging through the trees and also 4) Gecko Tower, a competitive contest where you have to scale the tower block and complete a series of challenges to emerge as the winner.

The most interesting aspect of ESCAPE is its emphasis on reconnecting with Mother Nature. Theme goers are encouraged to switch off their mobile phones and keep them inside their bags. The entire area is also superbly eco-friendly, with the toilets washed with collected rainwater and the food being served in biodegradable paper containers

ESCAPE Adventure Land
Jalan Teluk Bahang
11050 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

#9 PENANG HILL FOR ITS PEACE, SERENITY AND TRANQUILITY

Far away from the city centre is a cluster of hills collectively termed as Penang Hill. To get to the top of the hill, travellers would have to take the Funicular Railway, where they can get to enjoy the panoramic view of nature’s lush greenery along the way.

It is one of the few spots in Penang where you can escape to take a breather, and rejuvenate with nothing else but peace, serenity and tranquility.

#10 PENANG NATIONAL PARK – THE WORLD’S SMALLEST NATIONAL PARK

Teluk Bahang is the world’s smallest national park at only 2300 hectares, but do not let this fool you into thinking that is not a worthwhile place to visit. For many jungle trekkers, Penang national park is a beautiful romantic place that prides itself on having good terrain walks, an exotic turtle sanctuary, a monkey beach where primates scoot around unguarded, and even pools if you would like a cool respite.

About the writer:
A 23 year old looking at the world with fresh eyed wonder, Jane Lee has a deep appreciation (read: obsession) for bread, sweet potatoes and Harry Potter (cliched but true).