One of the cities with a long and illustrious history, Georgetown, the capital is an artist’s delight. With a beautiful panoramic view from atop the hill, along with a vibrant local life, it is one city that will satisfy any artist. Named after George III, the streets of Georgetown are straight out of a history book, with beautiful artistry and architecture all available for viewing.
The city is so steeped in history and art that it is well-preserved culturally that it was listed as a World Heritage Site in 2008 by UNESCO.
Take a walk through the town
If you’re planning on taking a bus from Singapore to George Town, then you’ll be able to enjoy a fun experience in this picturesque town. The capital city is refreshingly pedestrian-friendly and vibrant too. There is an enormous wealth of creativity here, with beautifully-lit streets, atmospheric temples, street art, brightly-coloured trishaws and malls as well, surrounded by beaches.
The city is also an excellent option for those who love gourmet food, with all types of cuisines available and street food options. There are also local hawker delights, French cuisine options and fine dining western fusion food options to choose from. Georgetown is also an excellent treasure trove of some secret finds, such as homemade handicraft shops, vintage items and even designer labels, if you’re into that. There are many street markets available, along with shopping centres and independent stores, among others.
What can you explore in Georgetown?
There are so many local attractions to explore here, with the most prominent one being the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. The 1880s style manor stands out from the rest because of its highly distinct and unique facade that is indigo-blue on the outside. It is designed in the traditional Hakke-Teochew style and was also saved from being ruined back in the 1990s. It is now a heritage hotel as well, and a project for conservation that has gone on to win multiple architectural awards.
The hotel has also featured in many international films, like the award-winning film Indochine and the critically acclaimed movie, The Blue Mansion. Several TV programs across prominent channels such as The History Channel, CNN and BBC have featured this attraction.
The hotel consists of 38 rooms with a stained glass style of design, floor tiles, timber-frame 220 windows, seven staircases, and granite courtyards surrounding the property.
The Clan Jetties
The Clan Jetties is a series of six jetties located right down the Lebuh Chulia and part of the Penang Heritage Trail. It is one of the last remains of Chinese settlements on the island and consists of many wood yard planks and firewood pieces.
Post the construction of the Quay in 1882, and the waterfront was also developed with small public landing stages or jetties. These settlements then slowly grew on these foundations and were named after particular clans. Owing to the rivalry over the access and the monopoly of the work consignments, the clans were often at war, and remains of these can be seen here too!
Malaysia’s largest Buddhist Temple
The Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in the country and sits atop the Air Itam. This consists of a set of prayer halls, monasteries, temples and landscaped gardens that are perfect for anyone looking for a break. The temple is a national icon, and was built in the year 1890, and is divided into three zones: the lower level for the entrance, souvenir, drinks and food stalls, and the turtle liberation pond.
The middle section consists of gardens, temples and pagodas and a heavenly pavilion. Finally, the hilltop is also home to a massive statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin.
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