Travel experiences: Asian adventures

What is the first thought that comes to you when I mention Penang?

Even as an Asian, I can only give you the standard reply that it is one of the state in Malaysia. What had attracted me to Penang in the first place? Cheap and yummy food!

There was a pretty attractive package and what I want is just a short getaway with nice food and decent beach so there was where I ended up with a big smile on my face. The ride from the airport to the hotel was like a cultural shock! I see modern and heritage buildings beside each other, city and suburbs separated by two junctions and they all blend well together.

The hotel service was quite good despite we have difficulties understanding each other. And most importantly, the hotel rooms were clean and not eerie with a good beach view! Imagine waking up in the morning for a beach run, hiding under the umbrella for a beach massage and watch the sunset… Move out of the beach and go grab some dinner at the hawkers. Find your favorite food and go shop for souvenirs at the night market, time yourself to see how fast can you conquer the night market! Make sure you bargain hard to fully blend into the culture.

Enjoy the friendly natives and the interesting buildings in town. But if you looking for nightlife, I guess this is not the place. Pay a visit to the little nook and corner in town to taste some exotic food and the must-try is Penang Laksa! Three separate locations in town for three different home made recipes that are voted to be the best. Enjoy the fried black noodle(cha kuai tiao), Satay and Rojak else the trip is definitely wasted!

When I was planning my trip, safety was my major concern after what I heard about Johor, another state in Malaysia. The locals helped to put my mind at ease after just a day in town. They are friendly and extremely helpful! The most important thing: Most people I met never attempt to take advantage of girl traveling alone.

Most people travel to this island via plane but you will miss out quite alot of interesting things along the way. If you have the time, I will highly recommend that you travel using the road from either Singapore or Thailand and cross the bridge to Penang.

Sum my trip up: Cheap, delicious food and totally enjoyable experience!